The Crimes of Paris by Dorothy Hoobler ***

In 1911, The Mona Lisa was stolen from the Louvre in Paris. The Crimes of Paris opens and closes with this infamous crime, but really the book is about the evolution of crime, culture and forensics in the 19th century with extensive excursions into the life of Picasso, precursors to fingerprints, getaway cars, and fictional and real-life detectives.

If you're interested in cultural or criminal history, you'll find this an enjoyable romp through 19th century France.