The Burglar Who Painted Like Mondrian

By: Lawrence Block

Narrated by: Richard Ferrone

After appraising the worth of a rich man's library—conveniently leaving his fingerprints everywhere in the process—Bernie finds he's the cops' prime suspect when his client is murdered.

It’s not that used bookstore owner and part-time burglar Bernie Rhodenbarr believes the less legal of his two professions is particularly ethical. (It is, however, a rush, and he is very good at it.) He just thinks it’s unfair to face a prison term for his legitimate activities. After appraising the worth of a rich man’s library—conveniently leaving his fingerprints everywhere in the process—Bernie finds he’s the cops’ prime suspect when his client is murdered.

Someone has framed Bernie Rhodenbarr better than they do it at the Whitney. And if he wants to get out of this corner he’s been masterfully painted into, he’ll have to get to the bottom of a rather artful—if multiply murderous—scam.

©1993 Lawrence Block (P)1999 Recorded Books, LLC

The Intrigue

I liked all the detail of what the author explained about burglars. I wouldn’t know. The ins and outs made my head swim. I could not keep up, as usual. He’s funny.

It's the bookseller!

Bernie Rhodenbarr, art fraud, art theft, murder investigation, suspense, amateur sleuth, snark-fest

Bernie has been cleverly framed for murder and art theft. There are more twists and turns in this case than a mountain road, but there is also a book full of hilarious situations and verbal humor. I'm glad that I decided to reread this one!
Richard Ferrone is excellent!

I'd forgotten how much I like this series

Having already heard the previous editions I'd forgotten how much I like this series. Lawrence Block weaves irony and humour into his books while still managing to surprise you with the eventual outcome and Richard Ferrone's narration fits like a glove. With appearances from his lesbian, dog grooming sidekick and a slightly crooked NYC cop Bernie manages to extricate himself from felony charges while solving murder and art fraud mysteries and also winding up with the genuine painting plus others valuables for himself. This book joins the rest of the series in the top tier in my library.

Another crazy romp

Bernie gets himself in trouble again and get himself out in an entertaining way. Fun action Very good narrator.

Brilliant!

Probably the cleverest and most complex of the series, both educational and fun. Well read by narrator