Book Review: To Steal from Thieves (Thieves & Kings, #1) by M.K. Lobb
There’s something irresistibly captivating about a new world brimming with magic, heists, and complicated relationships, and To Steal from Thieves certainly delivers on all fronts! When I first encountered M.K. Lobb’s captivating tale, I was instantly drawn in by its potential for young adult romantic fantasy, especially with hints of thrillers like Six of Crows and Heartless Hunter. My previous experience of hearing Lobb speak at an Indigo event further fueled my curiosity; the way she spoke about the intricacies of her characters just tugged at my reader’s heartstrings.
The story introduces us to Zaria, an alchemologist navigating the gritty slums while trying to uphold her late father’s legacy of selling dark market magic weapons. Opposite her is Kane, a charming conman embroiled in the intrigues of London’s criminal underworld. Their fates intertwine when they team up to orchestrate a high-stakes heist targeting a necklace encased within the heavily-guarded Crystal Palace. What could go wrong? Well, just about everything, because as the saying goes, trust and betrayal are just as common in love as they are in crime.
From the moment I dived into this gripping narrative, I was hooked—around 25% in, I was desperate to see how this heist would unfold. Lobb’s world-building is immaculate; I could almost feel the dark, damp air of the slums and the grandeur of the Crystal Palace on my skin. The unique magic system involving blood magic and "primateria" adds a brilliant twist that feels fresh and innovative. It’s a reminder of the creativity still flourishing in the realm of fantasy literature.
The character dynamics are another rich layer to enjoy. Zaria and Jules share a friendship that avoids the pitfalls of the jealousy trope, which I genuinely appreciated. This complexity is echoed in Kane’s dynamic with his mentor, Fletcher, providing depth and relatability to their interactions. The transition from reluctant coworkers to romantic interests between Zaria and Kane felt authentic, punctuated by a tension that kept me invested in their evolving relationship. And just when you think you know where it’s heading, Lobb hits you with cliffhanger betrayals that kept me on the edge of my seat!
Among themes of loyalty, trust, and the cruel bite of betrayal, Lobb touches on the burning themes of sacrifice and love that linger long after you flip the final page. The characters face choices that mirror the complexities of our real lives, making every decision resonate with palpable weight. There are several moments that will stick with readers, prompting fascinating discussions and reflections.
In conclusion, I wholeheartedly recommend To Steal from Thieves to those who love engaging fantasy that beautifully weaves romance with intricate plots. If you enjoy nail-biting tension, rich character relationships, and a world that leaps off the page, you won’t want to miss this journey. Mark your calendars for March 25, 2025 – I’ll be there with my copy in hand, eagerly awaiting the next installment. A special thanks to NetGalley and Little Brown Books for the advanced reader’s copy; it was a journey that I won’t soon forget!
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