The Devil's Thief (The Saint’s Devils, #1) by Samantha Kane

Jan 30, 2013 UniquelyMoi *Dhestiny* BlithelyBookish rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: review-needed, 2013-reads, 4-stars, author-samantha-kane, historcal-romance, reviewed-for-novel-sidekick

The Devil’s Thief is the first book in Samantha Kane’s The Saint’s Devils series. It’s a fun, sexy, romantic story and, opening in a most unusual way, grabbed my attention from the start.

From the cover:

The daughter of a reformed jewel thief, Julianna Harte knows a thing or two about stealth. When the foundling home she provides for finds itself in dire financial straits, Julianna is forced to do the unthinkable. In a bit of misguided Robin Hood derring-do, she slips through the window of a weal

...more
The Devil’s Thief is the first book in Samantha Kane’s The Saint’s Devils series. It’s a fun, sexy, romantic story and, opening in a most unusual way, grabbed my attention from the start.

From the cover:

The daughter of a reformed jewel thief, Julianna Harte knows a thing or two about stealth. When the foundling home she provides for finds itself in dire financial straits, Julianna is forced to do the unthinkable. In a bit of misguided Robin Hood derring-do, she slips through the window of a wealthy rake to search for a treasure she knows is there: an invaluable pearl. But when the towering and very naked occupant of the moonlit bedroom ambushes her with a bargain—a night in his bed in exchange for the pearl—Julianna doesn’t know if it’s masculine heat or sheer desperation that makes his terms so tempting.

Alasdair Sharpe had no intention of keeping his end of the bargain. Planning to offer his little cat burglar carte blanche instead, he promptly loses himself in the delights of unexpected pleasure. But when he awakes the next morning to find his family heirloom gone, fury quickly replaces sensual languor. Of course, Alasdair is more than willing to use seduction to reclaim his stolen pearl—and find the key to Julianna’s heart.

Right off the bat Ms. Kane gives us everything we need to know about Julianna’s late night break-in into Alasdair’s bedroom, and I enjoyed that because it left plenty of page time to getting to know the actual people involved in the story.

Alasdair and Julianna are our hero and heroine, and both are fun, intelligent, and romantic, and together, a very passionate couple. Julianna’s unconventional upbringing is really what sets the stage for this story, and allows for the introduction of some likewise unconventional characters. The other members of The Saint’s Devils, Roger Templeton, and Sir Hilary St. John, their group’s namesake, are both truly interesting people whose stories are sure to be just as exciting and deliciously sexy as Alasdair and Julianna’s is.

One of my favorite people in the book turned out to be a seventeen year old pimp-and-fencer-of-stolen-goods whose mother of his two children is in prison for murder. But don’t let Wiley’s seedy business dealings and association with thieves and killers fool you - he’s got ethics! I can only hope he’ll get a story of his own!

The bottom line: Engaging, entertaining, fast paced and very, very sexy, The Devil's Thief is a great start to this series. Roger Templeton's story is up next and, based on the excerpt at the back of this book, promises to be another great read!

My thanks to NovelSidekick and Netgalley for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.(less)

28 likes · like · see review

Dec 13, 2012 (¯`·..·♥Anna♥·..·´¯) rated it 4 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: historical-romance, netgalley, arc

*4 stars*

What a sexy, fun, engaging read!

The story begins when Alasdair Sharpe finds a thief in his home trying to steal an invaluable jewel, the Stewart pearl. What he later finds out is that the thief is not a common one, but a beautiful women named Julianna Harte. Being the rake that he is he suggests a bargain to Julianna, one she doesn't resist; a night in his bed in exchange of the pearl.

After a night of passion Julianna and his pearl disappear leaving Alasdair baffled. With the help of h...more

8 likes · like · see review

Aug 27, 2012 Jess rated it 3 of 5 stars

Shelves: 2012, historical-romance, net-galley

I saw this book up on netgalley and thought it looked interesting enough to go for. I've never read a book by Samantha Kane so I wasn't sure if I would like it or not but I'm happy to report that I did enjoy it!

The main characters are Julianna Harte and Alasdair Sharpe. Julianna is the daughter of a thief and she resorts to becoming a thief herself for the night by breaking into Sharpe's rooms so she could steal a famous pearl. The pearl is a part of Sharpe's legacy though and he is keenly aware...more I saw this book up on netgalley and thought it looked interesting enough to go for. I've never read a book by Samantha Kane so I wasn't sure if I would like it or not but I'm happy to report that I did enjoy it!

The main characters are Julianna Harte and Alasdair Sharpe. Julianna is the daughter of a thief and she resorts to becoming a thief herself for the night by breaking into Sharpe's rooms so she could steal a famous pearl. The pearl is a part of Sharpe's legacy though and he is keenly aware of when someone enters his space. Sharpe confronts Julianna and offers her the pearl for one night with him. However he really has no intention of following through with that promise. At most he wants Julianna to hang around and become his mistress. Julianna on the other hand, is aware of who Alasdair is and has no problem sleeping with him for a night as she has always kind of liked him. When Sharpe awakes in the morning to find Julianna gone and his pearl missing he goes ballistic. He recruits his rake friends to help him find the thief but isn't sure if he wants the pearl more or her.

Julianna was a unique character to me, I feel like I haven't seen her in a hundred other books. She is a virgin in the beginning so she is definitely innocent in some ways and yet she is also knowledgeable because of her unique upbringing with her father. She knows that she needs money to help a house of orphans (which she runs) so she goes about her own ways of finding that money. Although, I do think there were easier ways for her to get that money but then there wouldn't have been a book!

Alasdair was a typical rake character. He did what he wanted, and he was a little stupid IMO. I actually didn't really like him that much. He also wasn't that suave. There were a few situations where he was so caught up in his own lust and infatuation with Julianna that he didn't realize she was protesting. It was on the edge of that precipice of is it consensual or not consensual? I also think he wasn't that careful with Julianna, considering she was a virgin, there were a lot of situations where it would have been an experienced couple trying "new things". And yet, she just had sex for the first time a few days before.. is she really going to want to do it on a desk in a strange person's house? Apparently, yes. It was just a tad unbelievable. Maybe if he had been more appealing to me I wouldn't care that they had crazy monkey sex everywhere, but I didn't really like him.

I did like Sir Hillary and am curious about his book. Roger just annoyed me, the drunken mess. I don't care about him hence I didn't read the excerpt in the back of the book. But once I find Sir Hillary's book, I'll be reading that one.(less)

4 likes · like · see review

Aug 15, 2012 Layla rated it 2 of 5 stars

Shelves: 2012-august, 2012-release, genre-historical, part-of-a-series, netgalley-or-edelweiss, rating-2-stars, reviewed

*ARC provided by Random House Publishing Group via Netgalley

My rating: 2.75/5 stars
First line:“The faint, metallic screech sounded as loud as thunder in the opressive silence of the dark bedroom.”
Favourite quote:“You are the very air I breathe, the blood in my veins. All that is right in my world. If you ever do something so bloody stupid again, I will turn you over my knee and spank the living daylights out of you. ”
Song of choice: Caroline by Alex Clare

I don’t even know how to begin my review....more

4 likes · like · see review

Oct 01, 2012 Vanessa theJeepDiva rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: 2012, autographed, historical, romance, request

There were so many great aspects to this book. Julianna and Alasdair have a very backwards courtship that leads to constant apologies and frequent compromising positions. They are absolutely perfect for each other. They just don’t seem to realize it. Alasdair makes a complete ass of himself on several occasions in his attempt to reacquire that which was not exactly stolen from him. Julianna also has some misplaced notions of why she has stolen the pearl. Alasdair and Julianna figuring out what t...more

3 likes · like · see review

Sep 08, 2012 Shelley rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: historical

Julianna Harte is a woman with a problem. She is behind in rent payments for her children’s home, and she desperately requires money. Her solution is to steal the Stewart pearl from Alasdair Sharp and sell it to fund her home. Unfortunately, things don’t go to plan when Alasdair catches her in the act. She speaks without thinking, and once he learns she’s a woman he’s intrigued by his thief in the night. Julianna negotiates with him—her virginity in exchange for the pearl, and when Alasdair wake...more

2 likes · like · see review

Aug 24, 2012 Hannah Fielding rated it 5 of 5 stars

A fun, sizzling, rollicking good read.

London, 1817. Julianna Harte is the daughter of a reformed high-class thief and the founder of a home for abandoned children in London who is desperate to raise funds to stop her home closing – so desperate, in fact, that she resorts to robbery. She breaks into the home of her neighbour, Alasdair Sharpe, to steal his valuable pearl, but there she meets her match in the form of Alasdair – handsome, domineering and – oh my goodness – naked. He offers a proposi...more A fun, sizzling, rollicking good read.

London, 1817. Julianna Harte is the daughter of a reformed high-class thief and the founder of a home for abandoned children in London who is desperate to raise funds to stop her home closing – so desperate, in fact, that she resorts to robbery. She breaks into the home of her neighbour, Alasdair Sharpe, to steal his valuable pearl, but there she meets her match in the form of Alasdair – handsome, domineering and – oh my goodness – naked. He offers a proposition: one night with him in return for the pearl. Julianna agrees, but it is her instant attraction to the man that drives her. From there, the story twists and turns through high passion and high drama, as Julianna wrestles with her conscience over her immoral act, and both characters struggle with their feelings toward the other.

I loved the fast pace of this book, and the detailed plot which kept me turning pages (I read it in one sitting). There’s a lightness to the writing – a sense of fun and energy – that is compelling. The setting of London at the time is a great backdrop, and characters are likeable. My favourite is Wiley, a young street-wise man who takes a shine to Julianna and proves himself to be more of a man than many of his upper-class counterparts. I also liked Julianna, for her moral struggle and her courage.

What stands out most in the book, though, is the very passionate encounters between Julianna and Alasdair. From the outset, the writing is extremely steamy (and there is some strong language)! Here’s one of my favourite moments:

He broke the kiss. “Julianna,” he said desperately, pressing kisses along her cheekbone and then her hairline. “Juli.” His voice was ragged. “You are the very air I breathe, the blood in my veins. All that is right in my world. If you ever do something so bloody stupid again, I will turn you over my knee and spank the living daylights out of you.”

Julianna burst into surprised laughter, but he could hear how shaky it was. “Promises, promises,” she whispered. “Perhaps you should teach me a lesson right now?”

Overall, I enjoyed the book and will be looking out for the next in the series.(less)

2 likes · like · see review

Nov 12, 2012 Jen rated it 3 of 5 stars

Shelves: fv

Alasdair and Julianna
3.5 stars

Full review on Fiction Vixen Book Reviews

When Alasdair Sharpe wakes up with a thief in his bedroom the first thing he does is reach for his gun. The second thing he does is proposition the thief? Well, yes because the thief is a woman and he is very intrigued.

Julianna Harte is desperate. She needs money to pay the rent on the foundling house she is responsible for. She cannot go to her father because she doesn’t want it to seem like she can’t handle the small amou...more

2 likes · like · see review

Aug 08, 2012 Sue Grimshaw rated it 5 of 5 stars

About the book:
In Samantha Kane’s sensual tale of wicked passion, a desperate woman must resort to burglary—but the beautiful thief ends up stealing the heart of a rogue.

The daughter of a reformed jewel thief, Julianna Harte knows a thing or two about stealth. When the foundling home she provides for finds itself in dire financial straits, Julianna is forced to do the unthinkable. In a bit of misguided Robin Hood derring-do, she slips through the window of a wealthy rake to search for a treasure...more

2 likes · like · see review

Aug 02, 2012 Farrah rated it 5 of 5 stars

This review also appears on my blog at http://www.thegoldenruleof666.blogspo...

The Devil's Thief was, hands down, one of the best romances I've ever read. There is romance, suspense, surprises, anything you could ask for in a historical romance. And I just devoured it.

First of all, I really liked the idea. It's a new one, one I haven't seen before. A lady stealing from a handsome gentleman for the sake of her orphanage and getting caught? It already sounds like a winner.

My favorite part, however...more This review also appears on my blog at http://www.thegoldenruleof666.blogspo...

The Devil's Thief was, hands down, one of the best romances I've ever read. There is romance, suspense, surprises, anything you could ask for in a historical romance. And I just devoured it.

First of all, I really liked the idea. It's a new one, one I haven't seen before. A lady stealing from a handsome gentleman for the sake of her orphanage and getting caught? It already sounds like a winner.

My favorite part, however, was the characters. They were all brilliant.
Juilianna is not your average lady. She cares for the children in her orphanage and will do whatever it takes to take care of them. Even if it means stealing an invaluable pearl. However, she feels bad about stealing the pearl later, once she and Alasdair have fallen for each other. So, about halfway through, the story is focused on getting the pearl back. And Julianna is just as brave, if a little reckless, in getting it back as she was in stealing it. She was a lovely character. One that I could really like.

Alasdair was wonderful; I adored him. He places a lot of value in the pearl, a family heirloom from his mother's side. So when it gets stolen, he's understandably angry. But, right away, there was a blur in which he wanted more, the pearl or Julianna. When he started looking for his pearl, he was already more focused on Julianna than his heirloom. He was so sweet and protective of her, the perfect hero for the story. Their relationship was explosive. Right away, there are sparks flying and they don't let up. And it doesn't take long for him to see his real treasure. And on that cryptic note, I will move on to the other characters.

I loved every one of them. Roger, Wiley, Hil, even the Earl (Alasdair's cousin). Roger, Alasdair's friend, was hilarious. His comments made me laugh out loud-literally. Hil, another friend, was lovely in a different way. He was more staid and serious, but he doesn't hesitate to move into action when one of his friends need help. Wiley was amazing. He's the leader of a street gang and, at only seventeen, has two young boys in Julianna's orphanage. He helps her with the pearl business, from selling it, to retrieving it. He was totally awesome and hilarious at times. I even liked Julianna's father and step-mother. They were nice and had their shining moments. Every character was dynamic, even the antagonists.

The plot moved quickly. It starts immediately, with the first sentence and moves fast from there. The story kept me hooked from beginning to end.

The Devil's Thief is brilliant, one of my favorite romances to date.

5/5

Thanks to Netgalley for a copy!(less)

3 likes · like · see review

Aug 10, 2012 Jennifer Garcia rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: arc

This was an ARC review.

Here is the review on My Blog

This was a wonderful historical romance that had me hooked instantly. Julianna did something she was quite familiar with but very bad at. However, it worked to her advantage. She was put in the arms of the man that she was after, and it left them with an unresolved issue.
Their chemistry is instant, and you can feel it. Although they know they have chemistry they seem to be blind to the fact there is more to their relationship than just the thin...more

3 likes · like · see review

Nov 07, 2012 Lisa rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: netgalley, ebook, historical-romance, samantha-kane

Julianna Harte needs money desperately for the foundling home she sponsors so, as the daughter of a reformed thief, she decides to steal her neighbors highly valuable, perfect pearl. What she does not expect it to get caught by the very naked owner! Alasdair Sharpe can't believe the cheek of this female, breaking into his bedroom to steal his pearl but he is instantly attracted to her and offers her a proposition...one night in his bed for the pearl. As Julianna has had a crush on Alasdair, she...more Julianna Harte needs money desperately for the foundling home she sponsors so, as the daughter of a reformed thief, she decides to steal her neighbors highly valuable, perfect pearl. What she does not expect it to get caught by the very naked owner! Alasdair Sharpe can't believe the cheek of this female, breaking into his bedroom to steal his pearl but he is instantly attracted to her and offers her a proposition...one night in his bed for the pearl. As Julianna has had a crush on Alasdair, she agrees and break out the fan because these two can burn up the sheets! However, when Alasdair awakes in the morning and finds both Julianna and his pearl gone he is furious and sets about finding out her identity and reclaiming what is his. What he does not expect is the blinding passion he feels for Julianna and how jealously turns him into a crazy man....surely it is just not passion that attracts him to this delicate, witty woman? Will Alasdair be able to move past Julianna's thievery and control his anger to accept the most wonderful treasure to drop in on him? Or will Julianna's desire to fix her wrongs cost them everything?

This was my first time reading anything by Samantha Kane and I thoroughly enjoyed it (even if a few plot points bugged me)! The major thing that was hard for me was Alasdair's jealously. He accuses Julianna of having another lover the day after their encounter, even though he was her first and he just can't let go of the idea she has another man in her life. And when he sees her crying on another man's shoulders, oh boy! His anger almost makes his do something regrettable but he, thankfully, comes to his senses in time. Beyond the insane jealousy, Alasdair was a sexy devil, living life to the fullest, with lots of laughter and passion who meets his match in Julianna. She keeps herself very plain looking but underneath the unremarkable exterior, she is full of passion and fire with intelligence, wit and charm. She has a kind heart and wants to help the children as best as she can but Alasdair makes her see her thievery is just temporary and she needs a more permanent solution. We are introduced to two other 'devil's' and they add some wonderful humor and friendship and I can't wait for their own stories as they seem to have secrets to share. . . There is a bit of action involving the man Julianna sells the pearl to that I enjoyed and I also enjoyed the little twists involving her foundling home. The chemistry between Julianna and Alasdair is instantaneous and explosive so be certain to have a cool drink handy! Overall, I really enjoyed this book, even with Alasdair's bossy jealously. It has action, smoking passion, sharp wit and a romance that blooms under an unusual circumstance. Samantha Kane has made a new fan out of me for her historical romances and I am anxiously awaiting the next story to see what she comes up with next time! 4 stars

eARC provided by Random House (Loveswept) via netgalley.com
(less)

2 likes · like · see review

Jan 21, 2013 Callixta rated it 4 of 5 stars

Avis de Callixta

Samantha Kane vient d’opérer un virage important dans sa carrière. Cette auteure de romances érotiques que je vous recommande d’ailleurs, se lance dans la romance historique classique. Elle n’y est pas aussi à l’aise, commet quelques maladresses mais livre cependant un livre prometteur.

Samantha Kane a toujours écrit, en effet, des romances reposant sur des ménages à trois dans la période régence. Cela donne des livres fiévreux toujours avec deux hommes et une femme et des scènes...more Avis de Callixta

Samantha Kane vient d’opérer un virage important dans sa carrière. Cette auteure de romances érotiques que je vous recommande d’ailleurs, se lance dans la romance historique classique. Elle n’y est pas aussi à l’aise, commet quelques maladresses mais livre cependant un livre prometteur.

Samantha Kane a toujours écrit, en effet, des romances reposant sur des ménages à trois dans la période régence. Cela donne des livres fiévreux toujours avec deux hommes et une femme et des scènes d’une rare intensité. Nous retrouvons d’ailleurs partiellement ce talent ici car les scènes sensuelles sont assez épicées et montrent une entente irrésistible entre les protagonistes. Ceux-ci sont des personnages traditionnels de la romance : Alasdair Sharpe est un aristocrate qui s’amuse beaucoup et séduit les femmes. Il est aussi en possession d’une superbe perle ayant appartenu à ses ancêtres. En face de sa demeure londonienne réside un couple et leur fille. Celle-ci, Julianna est une discrète petite souris qui cache son tempérament sous des tenues modestes et qui ne va rien trouver de mieux que voler la perle d’Alasdair pour financer un orphelinat dont elle s’occupe. Son père a vécu de larçins toute sa vient simplement de prendre sa retraite et de remarier.

Ce départ fait un peu soupirer car une jeune fille de bonne famille a sans doute mieux à faire surtout quand elle se fait surprendre et abandonne gentiment sa virginité au propriétaire de la perle. Mais voilà, malgré ce côté presque trop vrai d’héroïne de romances historiques, le livre offre des aspects si plaisant que l’on passe par-dessus ces défauts. En effet, Julianna va ensuite devoir composer avec son vol et c’est bien plus compliqué qu’il n’y paraît. La perle sera le fil directeur du livre, toujours là pour relancer l’action, pour ouvrir de nouvelles perspectives et cela provoque une aventure intéressante.

Ajoutons à cela une intense relation amoureuse dans le couple formé par Alasdair et Julianna. Tous deux reconnaissent l’intensité de ce qui les unit et ont une liaison contrariée mais passionnée où, comme nous l’avons déjà dit, nous retrouvons l’habile plume de Samantha Kane pour ce genre de scènes.

Evidemment Alasdair n’est pas seul, il est avec plusieurs amis qui vont lui prêter main forte dans ses déboires et qui ont l’étoffe de futurs héros. Séduisants, complexes, voire msytérieux, ils sont très prometteurs.

Samantha Kane a su tirer partie de son intrigue et si ses personnages surtout Julianna pèche un peu et rappelle des héroïnes de jadis ce n’est que temporaire. Il faudra la suivre avec attention dans la suite de cette saga.(less)

1 like · like · see review

Nov 19, 2012 Lynn Spencer rated it 2 of 5 stars

Shelves: historical-romance

There's nothing like reading a wonderful book, sitting back with a smile and thinking, "Wow! That was good." On the other hand, there is also nothing like reading a book so utterly wretched that upon reaching the end, you can only sit there thinking, "Oh my goodness! It's finally over." And that's unfortunately what crossed my mind as I clicked through the last page of The Devil's Thief.

If you miss old school romance, this book has a plot that might catch your eye. Our feisty heroine, Julianna H...more

1 like · like · see review

Nov 18, 2012 Megan rated it 2 of 5 stars

Shelves: free, historical-fiction, romance, series

Ok, so I won an ARC copy of this from Random House and I only just finished it now. BEWARE: SPOILERS BELOW

YOU HAVE BEEN WARNED

This book started off really slow, and the main characters were pretty annoying for at least the first 3 or 4 chapters. They got a little better by the end and while I didn't hate them,I didn't particularly like them either. Julianna is too much of a pushover for my liking and is mostly just sort of boring. Also, he almost rapes her and she's totally cool with it. This w...more

like · see review

Jan 14, 2013 Liza rated it 4 of 5 stars

I was lucky enough to get a review copy from NetGalley thanks to the publisher. I love fun and sexy historical romances, and Samantha Kane totally delivered.

When Julianna Harte slips into Alasdair Sharp’s bedroom window to steal a priceless pearl, she has no idea how fast her life will change. First she is caught by Alasdair and bargains with him for the pearl. One night in his bed and she gets to take possession of the pearl. Neither Alasdair nor Julianna realize how much that one night will co...more

1 like · like · see review

Nov 07, 2012 Marlene rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: reading-romances-challenge

Originally published at Reading Reality

Midnight burglars either have to be very, very good, or very, very lucky. Julianna turns out to be a little bit of both, and neither.

She also seems to have forgotten that some, maybe most, of her father's skill rested on his ability to charm the petticoats off a number of his marks. Julianna gets off easy in one aspect of her first foray into the family business--her first mark isn't wearing anything at all.

The Devil's Thief is a romance, and a comedy for t...more

1 like · like · see review

Nov 07, 2012 Melissa rated it 4 of 5 stars

Miss Juianna Harte sneaks into her neighbor, Mr. Alasdair Sharpe's, window with the express intent of stealing The Stewart Pearl...she doesn't realize she's actually stepping into a sticky sticky web that will only pull her tighter in. When Alasdair proposes a trade ~ a night in his bed for the pearl, she hops on it. She's sponsoring a Foundling home, and is behind on the rent...she has no other choice, does? And of course, it doesn't help that she's very attracted to Mr. Alasdair Sharpe and he'...more

1 like · like · see review

Nov 07, 2012 Melody May rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: historical, netgalley, romance

also on http://sillymelody.blogspot.com

Ok, I started this charming book on Monday and I was able to finish it today. I would probably have finished The Devil's Thief yesterday, but you know how life can get you. Anyways, let me share what's this is about and what I thought of the book.

It's amazing how life influences can impact, for instance Julianna Harte grew up with a father who stole to accommodate for his family. However, living pretty much day to day didn't help Julianna feel secure. Now t...more also on http://sillymelody.blogspot.com

Ok, I started this charming book on Monday and I was able to finish it today. I would probably have finished The Devil's Thief yesterday, but you know how life can get you. Anyways, let me share what's this is about and what I thought of the book.

It's amazing how life influences can impact, for instance Julianna Harte grew up with a father who stole to accommodate for his family. However, living pretty much day to day didn't help Julianna feel secure. Now that she's older and her father has remarried someone that has the means to make their life stable, Julianna has carried around these scars from her childhood with her.

Fascinating how scars can help you make decisions. They can be good, they can bad or little bit of both. Julianna had decided that she didn't want any child to suffer the uncertainty of life, so she opened up a foundling home. However, she didn't have the means to really support the idea. Which leads us to meet our hero.

Alasdair Sharpe has this priceless pearl that would fetch a nice profit to help her foundling home. Julianna decides to take matters into her own hands to steal the priceless item. What could go wrong? After all her dad stole for many years, how hard could it be, right? So, the story unfolds with her getting caught and if you want to know more you might want to read the book.

My thoughts: I actually enjoyed The Devil's Thief. I appreciate how the story was pretty fast-pass. Granted Julianna was a bit naïve, her father did a really good job on sheltering her from what he did to support them. Then you have the Alasdair, who happen to be a jerk through most of the story (and that's being nice). To be honest that didn't bother me. I kinda like his devil's attitude. However, his friends had to call him out on his behavior. Good thing he has friends that can be honest with him. Overall, The Devil's Thief amusing read that left me satisfy through most of the book. However, towards the end it was a tad bit far-fetch. Fortunately, I have no problem with it and made the ending truly unique. So, if you are looking for a charming read today, you might want to check out The Devil's Thief by Samantha Kane.

Copy provided by Random House through NetGalley
(less)

1 like · like · see review

Nov 04, 2012 Holly rated it 4 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: historical-romance, highly-recommend, read-and-reviewed-from-author-or-pu

May have slight spoilers.

In author Samantha Kane’s new novel The Devil's Thief we meet Lady Julianna Harte. Julianna is the provider of a foundling home and behind on the rent. In the hopes of gaining the back-owed rent money she decides to take up the past family business and steal her wealthy neighbor’s family heirloom: the renowned Stewart Pearl.

When she is caught pretty much red-handed by the owner of said pearl, Alasdair Sharpe, she does not know what to do, and not just because he is naked...more

1 like · like · see review

Nov 04, 2012 Beckey rated it 5 of 5 stars

Julianna is desperate to find money for the rent for her founding home for orphaned and abandoned children.
The book starts out with Julianna sneaking into the bedroom of Alasdair to steal the Stewart Pearl, his family jewel. Alasdair catches her and strike up a bargain of sorts, a foolish one nonetheless. Julianna fulfills her end of the bargain and in the morning after Alasdair has fallen deeply asleep, she leaves with the pearl safely in her possession. But that is not what Alasdair desired t...more

1 like · like · see review

Dec 02, 2012 Dianne rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: adult-fiction, regency-romance

In this regency romance, our leading lady, Julianna is desperate enough to steal a valuable family heirloom, a rare pearl, from one of London's biggest rakes in order to feed the children in an orphanage she secretly runs. She steals into Alasdair's bedroom in the night, gets caught, has a gun pointed at her, cuts a deal with the 'gentleman'...Okay, fade to black here...;) and slips away before dawn.

What follows is a game of cat and mouse, with the tension between Julianna and Alasdair at a boil...more

2 likes · like · see review

Nov 08, 2012 Pam rated it 4 of 5 stars

Samantha Kane has written a fun enjoyable historical novel full of interesting characters and laugh out loud conversations.
London 1817
Julianna Harte has had an interesting upbringing; during a time of need her father was a jewel thief and would steal and sell items to keep a roof over their heads and food on the table. It is not until her father marries the Baroness Linville that their fortunes change and they are able to enjoy the good things in life. Julianna helps fund a foundling home in th...more

1 like · like · see review

Nov 10, 2012 Leah rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: net-galley-books

*I won this ARC on Herding Cats and Burning Soup blog and received it from Random House through NetGalley.*

I have really enjoyed all the characters in The Devil's Thief. I will definitely be following the rest of this series.

Alasdair and Julianna caught me up with their first meeting when she was caught stealing his pearl. She steals it for funds to help pay rent on the foundling home she helps to run. He catches her in his bedroom and offers a deal. The pearl for a night in his bed. He has no i...more

1 like · like · see review

Dec 17, 2012 Elaine rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: 2012-12

I have been a fan of Samantha Kane’s Brothers in Arms series for years. As a matter of fact, she may be the author that introduced me to the joys of a menage relationship (reading about it people, not living it!) I love her books, so I was excited to have the chance of reviewing her first book for a mainstream publisher. I was also nervous because I was afraid her style would be changed because the book was intended for a different audience.

I shouldn't have worried.

The Devil’s Thief is a straig...more

1 like · like · see review

Nov 18, 2012 Kari rated it 3 of 5 stars

Shelves: 2012, kindle

The Devil's Thief is the first book I have read by Ms. Kane. It's the first in a new series published by Loveswept. Just knowing Loveswept published it, I knew I was in for an enjoyable read. I wasn't disappointed. I loved the characters in the book. Julianna and Alasdair were so perfect for each other. While it was quick, their romance was very believable. Their meeting helps them both to realize what id truly important.

Along with the sweet romance, the peripheral characters, namely Alasdair's...more

1 like · like · see review

Oct 26, 2012 Lisarenee rated it 3 of 5 stars

Notes: Read the eARC via Net Galley

My synopsis:
"Unless you care to be shot this evening, I wouldn't move from where you're standing." The deep voice was quiet but firm and it came from the shadows of the big bed...

"...tell me what you found so irresistible in my bedroom in the middle of the night."

"Let me assure you that it was the Stewart Pearl I found irresistible," she retorted, "and nothing else."...

"You're a Woman," Mr. Sharp exclaimed in shock...

"I'll give you the pearl, my dear.".....more Notes: Read the eARC via Net Galley

My synopsis:
"Unless you care to be shot this evening, I wouldn't move from where you're standing." The deep voice was quiet but firm and it came from the shadows of the big bed...

"...tell me what you found so irresistible in my bedroom in the middle of the night."

"Let me assure you that it was the Stewart Pearl I found irresistible," she retorted, "and nothing else."...

"You're a Woman," Mr. Sharp exclaimed in shock...

"I'll give you the pearl, my dear."..."For one night in my bed. Tonight."

Julianna's heart was in the right place, but the rest of her? Well, not so much. Let's just say she's a little misguided. Determined to keep the foundling home she'd established for children running, she desperately sought out a way to pay the rent and had concocted a plan to steal the Stewart Pearl so she could hock it for the proceeds. In Julianne's case, the apple truly didn't fall far from the tree. Her father was a reformed thief and newly married. That is when all the problems had begun. Her stepmother hadn't approved of her foundling home and so her father had cut off his funding of it. Now here she was with a choice to make--was the home worth the price Mr. Alasdair Sharp was asking?

My Thoughts:
Have you ever read a book where the heroine keeps doing things that make you want to shout out, "No, don't do it."? lol This is such a book. Julianna is a fun character who doesn't think things through, or perhaps doesn't comprehend the consequences before she acts. I was constantly shifting between giggling and shaking my head at her. Perhaps that is partly what makes Mr. Sharp fall in love with her. She needed someone to keep her out of trouble. At one point he actually says, "If you ever do something so bloody stupid again, I will turn you over my knee and spank the living daylights out of you.'

Truth be told, I didn't really care for Alasdair at the beginning. He was basically a jerk after their initial one night stand. He got upset and embarrassed because he'd been bested by Julianne and probably because of his own stupidity, for he never truly intended to give her his pearl, he'd decided instead to make her his mistress. I guess his mama didn't teach him to mean what you say and say what you mean.

When he wakes up the following morning to find both her and his pearl missing, well, to put it mildly, he goes a little crazy and asks his friend to help find her. Once found, he takes his anger and frustration out on her and Julianna doesn't seem to even notice just how awful he's being. He basically demands she either give him back the pearl or grant him sexual favors whenever he wishes as comeuppance. While she reminds him that was not their official deal, Alasdair is simply not satisfied and starts to stalk her in an attempt to get the pearl back. The thing that redeemed this hero in my eyes is that at some point he takes a good look at himself, realizes he doesn't like what he sees or how he's been acting towards Julianna and does an about face. Some however, I fear, are not going to get past his initial bad behavior.

Why is the book called The Devil's Thief and the series called The Saint's Devils? Well, it "was a silly nickname their (Alasdair and Hil's) group of friends had earned years ago in school, based on Hil's surname." Hil being Sir Hilary St. John, one of the friends Alasdair recruits to help him find Julianne. Hil is a very well connected person who is very good at finding things out. Since Alasdair was considered one of the Saint's Devils it goes without saying that Julianna would be The Devil's (Alasdair's) Thief.

Overall, I gave this one 3 out of 5 roses. I liked the camaraderie of Alasdair's friends and found each of them intriguing. My favorite secondary character, however, was Wiley, a street wise 17 year old who already has 4 children by 3 different woman and takes his family responsibilities very seriously. Hil takes him under his wing, and I hope we see more of the delightful character as the series progresses. Likewise, I'd love to see more of Hil. He seemed the most level headed and interesting of the friends.

Besides the characters, I loved the writing and look forward to reading the sequels. On the Lisarenee Romance Rating Scale, this one gets a STEAM rating--too hot for a fan, but you still have a handle on things. You should use extreme caution when reading a book with this rating in public. People may inquire as to why you looked flustered and flushed. A couple of scenes, however, where Alasdair treated Julianna poorly do not fall into the STEAM category.(less)

1 like · like · see review

Nov 12, 2012 Jen (That's What I'm Talking About) rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: 2012-new-to-me-author, romance, historical

My Rating: 4 stars: Enjoyed - strongly recommend(A-)
Full Review: http://www.twimom227.com/2012/11/revi...

The Devil’s Thief, is a highly amusing historical romance filled with wit, fun, danger and love. The story is rich with enjoyable characters and an amusing plot. The characters provided the driving force behind the storyline. Julianna is a strong woman who can fit within society's boundaries on the outside, but is "modern" on the inside. I love that Alasdair respects and admires that part of...more My Rating: 4 stars: Enjoyed - strongly recommend (A-)
Full Review: http://www.twimom227.com/2012/11/revi...

The Devil’s Thief, is a highly amusing historical romance filled with wit, fun, danger and love. The story is rich with enjoyable characters and an amusing plot. The characters provided the driving force behind the storyline. Julianna is a strong woman who can fit within society's boundaries on the outside, but is "modern" on the inside. I love that Alasdair respects and admires that part of Julianna. I feel the interactions and banter between he and Julianna are clever and entertaining.

Julianna does not fit the mold of a prim and proper society woman, often standing up for herself, taking risks and making things happen. And she’s not the only one. Her father, a former thief, who stole only to feed and cloth his young daughter, has married up into society to a Baroness. But he didn’t do it for the financial cushion, but rather for love. And the Baroness herself is fairly bold and at times, contrary to the roll she lives in public.

The quest to return the pearl is one of adventure and danger. Although somewhat predictable, the plot moved forward at an enjoyable pace. The ups and downs the characters endure make the journey that much more satisfying. Alasdair’s companions, (fellow Devils) Roger and Hil add comic relief, but also additional mystery. They are marvelous. I love the light-hearted, silly "frat boy" humor of Roger and want to know more about Hil. He is full of intrigue, and it will be exciting to see what woman will match him. The misunderstandings and mishaps the gang encounter never bordered on frustrating and always kept the story moving forward.

In the end, I really enjoyed The Devil’s Thief and look forward to the next tale. The overall feel was light and romantic, with a lot of humor tossed in. But most of all, the characters were all exceptional. They may not be the picture perfect specimens of society during the time period, but that's what made them enjoyable and even lovable. (less)

1 like · like · see review

Oct 25, 2012 Judith rated it 4 of 5 stars

Samantha Kane is one of my favorite authors because she manages to write historical novels that have a strong sense of connection between the characters that goes beyond family or blood relationship. In this first in a new series, Ms Kane introduces men who are not naive by any means, who have sampled the delights of bachelor life but who have managed to retain a conscience and a sense of honor. This first novel highlights a gentleman whose family has been given the "privilege" of guarding the S...more

like · see review

Dec 18, 2012 Syahira Sharif rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: drama, historical, romance

The Devil's Thief started with a girl sneaking into a room, intending to steal a priceless string of pearl but she ended up being caught by the owner, Alasdair Sharpe. But instead of calling the police, he offered her to keep the pearls as long as she would spend a night in his bed. But he didn't really mean it and when he woke up with the elusive thief along with the pearls gone, he was in a panic and thus the search for the thief begin.

That does sound like the beginning of "The Dark Night Ris...more

like · see review

topics	posts	views	last activity
Book Giveaways: Historical Romance Giveaway!	2	12	Oct 24, 2012 09:17am
Romance Blogger E...: Historical Romance Giveaway!	1	1	Oct 24, 2012 08:00am

title link	preview: The Devil's Thief
avg rating	preview: The Devil's Thief Goodreads rating: 3.68 (133 ratings)
small image	preview: click here [close]
med image	preview: click here [close]
BBCode	[url=http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/15757382-the-devil-s-thief?utm_medium=api&utm_source=blog_book][img]http://d.gr-assets.com/books/1344650757l/15757382.jpg[/img][/url] [url=http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/15757382-the-devil-s-thief?utm_medium=api&utm_source=blog_book]The Devil's Thief by Samantha Kane[/url]

The Devil's Thief (The Saint’s Devils #1)

Friend Reviews

Lists with This Book

Community Reviews

new topic
Discuss This Book

combine
Other Editions (2)

Videos About This Book

Genres

Readers also enjoyed similar books

About Samantha Kane

Books by Samantha Kane

Share This Book

Share This Book on Your Website

Trivia About The Devil's Thief