This is a relatively light police procedural focusing on an art heist -- a Velasquez stolen from under the noses of the curators at London's National Gallery. This is one of several heists that have occurred recently, and with this painting being stolen from the nation, Gideon has been given the responsibility of running the thieves to justice. There are a few other crimes and murders, and some peril, but there aren't too many horrific details. The book also highlights the difficulties of launching large-scale investigations, ensuring that every force has some representation and juggling the various personality conflicts that arise. I enjoyed this installment very much. It is my favourite of the ones I've read so far, probably because of the National Gallery angle. I did think it a bit creepy that Alec Hobbs has a crush on Gideon's daughter when they are in their 40s and 20s, respectively, but that subplot makes only the tiniest of appearances. Overall this is a good Scotland Yard book. ( )