The Vatican City --- the smallest country in the world, home to the leader of the Catholic Church and the stronghold for most of the faithful; the habitat of a significant number of treasures that have aged to be almost untouchable; perhaps uniquely surreal; one of the most secured places in the world, until now...Robert Gallant, through tireless years of research and dialogues with the minds behind historical concepts in Rome, presents his latest thriller, Rob the Vatican --- a novel that morphs the Città del Vaticano into the center of what could be the greatest heist in history. While this tiny state is known for being impervious, Gallant opens his readers' eyes into the possibility of the impossible --- a concept most often taught within the walls of this faithful religion.
Like in many other books, The Vatican in Robert Gallant is depicted as this mysterious, fascinating and interesting place that everyone should make a trip to. The book is based on the pope's residence and everything whether good or bad that happens there. One gets to experience a virtual trip to the Vatican, being told who the figure of authority is and how many assets the place has. I loved it when the book started reading like a crime thriller. The reader lives through a heist that is to happen in the holiest place to Catholics and possibly the richest religious ground. We follow Craig Reynolds, the jewel thief as he plots on how to rob the Vatican. Craig is no amateur as he has in the past stolen from all the high places you could think of. The development of the plot was excellent and depiction of the Vatican symbol great. The themes of power, love, religion, property, and morality are illustrated through the characters throughout the book.
Fascinating thriller about an American jewel thief, Craig Reynolds, who decides to decides to rob the Vatican as his final job before retiring with the title of Master Thief. The details of the planning and subterfuge required for this unbelievable heist were incredible. Filled with well-developed characters from Nazis who fence the stolen merchandise, the dark, very lethal side of the Vatican led by an ambitious cardinal, a former Communist crime boss, a idealistic priest and an innocent young gymnast who is caught up in the action. I found Craig Reynolds to be such a likable criminal I was rooting for his success the whole time. Great read!