The Sacred Art of Stealing

The Sacred Art of Stealing is a satirical crime fiction work authored by Scottish writer Christopher Brookmyre, released in 2002. This novel marks his seventh publication and serves as an independent follow-up to A Big Boy Did It and Ran Away.

The narrative revolves around Zal Innez, an art-enthusiast and thief of mixed Scottish and Mexican descent, alongside Detective Inspector Angelique de Xavia, a skilled martial artist assigned to apprehend him. De Xavia is depicted as recovering from circumstances encountered in the preceding novel.

Blending elements of dark comedy, explicit language, violence, and literary allusions such as Waiting for Godot, the book delves into the unconventional romantic dynamic between the criminal and the detective.

Plot summary

Zal Innez, an American thief, is compelled by crime lord Alessandro Estabol to carry out one final significant robbery. As preparation, Zal’s group—comprised of unsuccessful artists—conducts a daring bank heist in Glasgow, seizing nearly a million pounds through inventive methods including the use of itching powder against armed officers, imitation firearms, theatrical performances, and creating artwork for hostages to reduce harm.

During the heist, Zal encounters police officer Angelique de Xavia, who is underappreciated by her superiors. Despite their conflicting roles, they form a complex bond. Zal expects Angelique’s pursuit as part of his strategy, while Angelique grapples with the possibility that Zal’s emotions might be sincere despite his deceit.

Characters

Detective Inspector Angelique de Xavia

A Glaswegian police officer and devoted Rangers fan who experiences marginalization as an Asian female officer. Disheartened by her superiors' disregard for her achievements, she develops a nuanced relationship with hostage-taker Zal, navigating between enforcement duties and empathy. She also features in Brookmyre's A Big Boy did it and Ran Away and A Snowball in Hell.

Zal Innez

A cunning ex-artist turned thief who intentionally allowed himself to be captured during a robbery orchestrated by Alessandro Estobal. Upon release from prison, he is blackmailed into further criminal acts through threats against his prison protector, Parnell. An American with Glaswegian heritage, Zal combines sharp intellect with extensive literary and artistic expertise. He reappears in A Snowball in Hell.

Alessandro Estobal

The impulsive young successor of the Estobal crime dynasty whose leadership style faces internal criticism. Bearing resentment toward Zal and his associates, he coerced them into art thefts that resulted in the death of Zal's father. After Zal’s imprisonment, Alessandro pressures him into another heist by threatening Parnell.

"American" Harry Arthur

Known formally as Javier Arturo, he is a high-ranking American gangster and assassin working for the Estobal family. Skeptical of Alessandro's decisions and schemes involving Zal, whom he distrusts. His moniker reflects his Mexican background combined with his aspiration to appear entirely American.