‘Flawless’ a brilliant account

The theft took place at the Diamond Center vault in Antwerp, Belgium, with a loss of at least $108 million in diamonds, securities and cash.

The band of thieves became known as the School of Turin. These thieves were professionals in every way. Their planning was meticulous. All security systems, cameras, sensors, steel doors and the locked safety deposit boxes were examined. Ways to get around or disable them without setting off alarms were discovered or invented. After more than two years of planning and rehearsals, the theft took place and succeeded. It was after the getaway that the miscalculations occurred.

"Flawless” is true, but it reads like crime fiction. It’s wonderfully researched, filled with details and contains a 60-page appendix. It could be an exciting caper movie.

— John Harrington