I first heard about this book on my local radio – KUHF on one of my drives. It sounded really good and I wanted to read it immediately. It was a real-life mystery and I could not wait to get my hands on it. I started reading it as soon I was able to get it from my library inspite of having another book open something I never do. I was so excited to read this memoir. But I took nearly 3 weeks to finish the 325 page book.

The memoir brings to life the world of art-crimes and the recovery of priceless artworks stolen from private collections and museums. Art crime glorified by movies is rarely glamorous in real-life. I knew all this before I opened the book. The book helped me broaden my views about how the FBI really works.

Former FBI agent Robert Wittman, recollects his days in the FBI where he learns about priceless art work in order to recover them. He goes undercover and deals with criminals. The recovery of few pieces are described in detail and some of the early ones are really gripping but somewhere in the middle, I lost it or to word it better – the book lost me. Another interesting recovery but it seemed dry, boring. I know it is not fiction but maybe it could have been made more interesting, less dry and a lot shorter?

Most of the reviews online rank the book quite highly and they say it is a page turner. Maybe it is just me who found the book boring. I am so glad to get the book done and that I could move on to other books.