HOUSE OF THIEVES takes us back to the late 1800's when women needed escorts and when men were their protectors. The men definitely protected their wives and families and kept secrets from them as they carried out their days.
The secret John Cross kept from his wife, though, was one he couldn't keep for long. When he returned home one evening with bruises and cuts, John had to tell his wife about his "deal" with Kent. The secret he kept was that their son, George, had racked up a gambling debt that he couldn't pay, and Kent came to John with a deal John wasn't able to pass up.
John wasn't able to pass it up because it was a good deal. John wasn't able to pass it up because it was a deal that he had to accept to keep his family safe. If he didn't go along with Kent, John saw what Kent was capable of.
The deal took every waking minute of John's time and was something he would never dream of doing or being a part of. If he got caught, he would ruin his family, but better to be ruined than dead.
The characters seemed quite authentic. John Cross made me afraid for him, Kent was despicable and ruthless, George made me angry that he would continue to do what he did to put his family in this situation even after his father told him he knew of his dangerous obsession. Kent seemed as if he were just playing John Cross and his son's debt would never be settled, but John Cross had to keep finding homes and banks to rob so his family was safe.
You will get pulled into the time period and the storyline as you wonder how someone could be as evil and cunning as Kent and as your fear for John Cross and his family mounts.
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Mr. Belfoure has authored another intriguing, well-written, captivating book. Mr. Belfoure pulls you in with his marvelous research and storyline about the life styles of the wealthy as well as the poor during this era.
If you enjoy being treated to history, an alluring storyline, and an "oh my goodness" ending, HOUSE OF THIEVES will take you there.
One chapter after another keeps you mesmerized as unbelievable, possible events happen. 5/5
This book was given to me free of charge and without compensation by the publisher in return for an honest review.
Sounds like a fascinating read. I love historical fiction, so definitely a book for me.
ReplyDeleteI think you will like it.
DeleteHave you read his other book, THE PARIS ARCHITECT?
Thanks for stopping, Lisbeth
No, but this has been on my to read list for a long time. Maybe I will just collect all these Paris books for next years' 'Paris in July'. Sounds like good reads.
DeleteThis book got a lot of buzz at BEA!
ReplyDeleteIt did. I was able to get a signed copy. :)
DeleteThanks for stopping, Kathy.
I picked this one up at BEA also. Charles Balfour did a tour stop for The Paris Architect at my local bookstore. Really nice guy, and I'm excited to read this one.
ReplyDeleteIt is different from The Paris Architect, but equally as good. Different subjects, different time period.
DeleteYes...he is a nice person.
Thanks for stopping, OnDBookshelf.
Sounds good especially since it drew out so many emotions with the characters. :)
ReplyDelete@dino0726 from
FictionZeal - Impartial, Straightforward Fiction Book Reviews
Definitely lots of emotions.
DeleteThanks for stopping, Diane. I think you would like the book if you read it.
I enjoyed the Paris Architect. This one sounds good, too.
ReplyDeleteI LOVED The Paris Architect.
DeleteHouse of Thieves is different but still good.
Thanks for stopping, Mari Reads.