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Stonewood Trilogy #1
The Thieves of Stonewood
Welcome to Stonewood. A large and wealthy city where thieves, thugs, and assassins lurk behind every shadow. The powerful Thieves Guild controls the underworld and only members are permitted to commit crimes within their city.
This is the tale of Harcourt, a down-on-his-luck thief who desperately needs to gain a membership into the Guild. Jalanna, the love of his life has been scarred in a terrible fire and a priest claims he can heal her scars, but for a hefty price in gold. A near-impossible amount to acquire for a homeless thief without a Guild membership.
Luck is not on the rogue’s side as his goal slips further and further out of reach. Forces conspire against him. Then a chance encounter on a fateful night, could change Harcourt’s life forever.
This is the tale of Harcourt, a down-on-his-luck thief who desperately needs to gain a membership into the Guild. Jalanna, the love of his life has been scarred in a terrible fire and a priest claims he can heal her scars, but for a hefty price in gold. A near-impossible amount to acquire for a homeless thief without a Guild membership.
Luck is not on the rogue’s side as his goal slips further and further out of reach. Forces conspire against him. Then a chance encounter on a fateful night, could change Harcourt’s life forever.
- GenresFantasy
312 pages, Paperback
First published March 6, 2013
2 people are currently reading
360 people want to read
About the author
Jeremy Hayes
11 books66 followersJeremy Hayes was born in Scarborough, Ontario, Canada. He started creating his own characters and writing his own stories by the age of 9. He is a boxing fanatic, having been an amateur boxer and is now a professional boxing judge. In his spare time when not watching boxing, or reruns of Lost in Space and Rocket Robin Hood, Jeremy tries to find time to write some of the many stories floating around in his head.
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Displaying 1 - 25 of 25 reviews
October 8, 2016
This is a complicated fantasy. Maybe too complicated sometimes. The story is multi-layered and has some unexpected twists and turns, but it also has some sometimes clunky clues as well. I found it a bit of a patchy read, although I was never remotely tempted not to finish.
In the end I warmed to it enough to give it a resounding four stars.
In the end I warmed to it enough to give it a resounding four stars.
May 6, 2015
Disclaimer: The author sent me a free copy to review.
Harcourt has a problem. He needs money. This shouldn’t be a problem or at least not much of one as he is a thief, but the Thieves’ Guild does not want him to join. What’s a thief to do; besides be a thief?
The Thieves of Stonewood is a book in the tradition of gaming novels. It feels like a role playing novel. It combines the gaming feel with a hint of Thieves’ World. This is not to be seen as a criticism. After all, look at the success of Drizzt.
I can’t figure out if the book is intended for a Young Adult audience, an adult one, or both. Harcourt is presented as a likable, if slightly romanticized figure, and at times the plot reads like a fairy tale, not a bad thing. Yet, Hayes deserves credit for letting the reader see the dark side of Harcourt. Harcourt may deeply love his girlfriend Jalanna, but he does not romanticize all women. He may have a soft spot for children but he does also have a hard side. In short, he is a bit like the central character from the BBC America series Copper.
The book does have some problems that usually appear with a first book. The world building could be a bit stronger. The world is believable, and Hayes sets out rules that he sticks to; however, if you are familiar with Thieves’ World, that image tends to overwhelm. At times, the sentences are heavy. Furthermore, the fact that Harcourt says repeatedly that he only wants to heal the scarred Jalanna to make her happy and that he doesn’t care what she looks like, seems to imply the opposite. Because Harcourt must even say this to his close friend, it feels like a case of he doth protest too much. Hayes clearly shows that the couple is in love, but I can’t help but think how more powerful it would have been if he had down the same in regards to Harcourt and Jalanna’s scars. Instead of repeating the same thing over and over, why not show Harcourt remove her veil, touch her face? Something like that is far more powerful then the repetitive denial of Harcourt. Jalanna doesn’t seem to remove the veil even in front of him, and while this speaks to her feelings of her self-image, it also somewhat seems to speak to Harcourt’s.
Hayes’ tight plotting and energetic writing when the plot takes off makes up for the defects. While at times the writing is heavy, when the action truly starts, this flaw leaves. The last 150 pages fly by. While the book is first in a planned trilogy, the ending is not a cliffhanger and is satisfying, not something that the first book in every series does. The supporting characters are very well drawn. Hayes describes the characters, for the most part, in terms of action and behavior. This succeeds very well, and the characters also stay in character. Yes, I know all readers should expect this, but considering how many writers have zapped their characters into something else, sometimes even in one book, it is worth noting.
In short, I was somewhat fearful to accept the offer of the book for the review, but after reading it, I am very glad that I did.
Harcourt has a problem. He needs money. This shouldn’t be a problem or at least not much of one as he is a thief, but the Thieves’ Guild does not want him to join. What’s a thief to do; besides be a thief?
The Thieves of Stonewood is a book in the tradition of gaming novels. It feels like a role playing novel. It combines the gaming feel with a hint of Thieves’ World. This is not to be seen as a criticism. After all, look at the success of Drizzt.
I can’t figure out if the book is intended for a Young Adult audience, an adult one, or both. Harcourt is presented as a likable, if slightly romanticized figure, and at times the plot reads like a fairy tale, not a bad thing. Yet, Hayes deserves credit for letting the reader see the dark side of Harcourt. Harcourt may deeply love his girlfriend Jalanna, but he does not romanticize all women. He may have a soft spot for children but he does also have a hard side. In short, he is a bit like the central character from the BBC America series Copper.
The book does have some problems that usually appear with a first book. The world building could be a bit stronger. The world is believable, and Hayes sets out rules that he sticks to; however, if you are familiar with Thieves’ World, that image tends to overwhelm. At times, the sentences are heavy. Furthermore, the fact that Harcourt says repeatedly that he only wants to heal the scarred Jalanna to make her happy and that he doesn’t care what she looks like, seems to imply the opposite. Because Harcourt must even say this to his close friend, it feels like a case of he doth protest too much. Hayes clearly shows that the couple is in love, but I can’t help but think how more powerful it would have been if he had down the same in regards to Harcourt and Jalanna’s scars. Instead of repeating the same thing over and over, why not show Harcourt remove her veil, touch her face? Something like that is far more powerful then the repetitive denial of Harcourt. Jalanna doesn’t seem to remove the veil even in front of him, and while this speaks to her feelings of her self-image, it also somewhat seems to speak to Harcourt’s.
Hayes’ tight plotting and energetic writing when the plot takes off makes up for the defects. While at times the writing is heavy, when the action truly starts, this flaw leaves. The last 150 pages fly by. While the book is first in a planned trilogy, the ending is not a cliffhanger and is satisfying, not something that the first book in every series does. The supporting characters are very well drawn. Hayes describes the characters, for the most part, in terms of action and behavior. This succeeds very well, and the characters also stay in character. Yes, I know all readers should expect this, but considering how many writers have zapped their characters into something else, sometimes even in one book, it is worth noting.
In short, I was somewhat fearful to accept the offer of the book for the review, but after reading it, I am very glad that I did.
April 19, 2017
Really good story,characters were very well thought out and this made for a good and entertaining read.
Want to read more in this series.
Want to read more in this series.
September 27, 2013
The Thieves of Stonewood is a fantasy adventure that came as a a surprise to me. I'm not keen on the bookcover, and I expected from that, for the novel to be a bit of a comic storyline. But instead, it's much deeper and broader than that.
Harcourt needs money to help the love of his life, Jalanna. After a fire, she has many emotional and physical scars. With the right amount of gold, a priest claims he can heal her physical scars. Although Harcourt loves Jalanna, know matter what she looks like, he knows that she needs the healing to help stimulate her emotional healing. We all know beauty starts from within, but it's hard to judge Jalanna, insecure with her image.
The fastest way for Harcourt to get money is to thief. But in order to do that legal like, he needs admission to the Thieves Guild, which he has been denied. So, he'll take matters into his own hands. With a deftly build world of magic, action and complex characters you grow to love or hate, The Thieves of Stonewood is no comic book! It's a journey of epic proportions filled with action, romance, mystery, magic and more that kept me completely riveted. If you enjoy fantasy adventures, try The Thieves of Stonewood! It's pretty darn good!
Harcourt needs money to help the love of his life, Jalanna. After a fire, she has many emotional and physical scars. With the right amount of gold, a priest claims he can heal her physical scars. Although Harcourt loves Jalanna, know matter what she looks like, he knows that she needs the healing to help stimulate her emotional healing. We all know beauty starts from within, but it's hard to judge Jalanna, insecure with her image.
The fastest way for Harcourt to get money is to thief. But in order to do that legal like, he needs admission to the Thieves Guild, which he has been denied. So, he'll take matters into his own hands. With a deftly build world of magic, action and complex characters you grow to love or hate, The Thieves of Stonewood is no comic book! It's a journey of epic proportions filled with action, romance, mystery, magic and more that kept me completely riveted. If you enjoy fantasy adventures, try The Thieves of Stonewood! It's pretty darn good!
October 12, 2019
I wasn't really into the novel at first. I initially found it a little bit slow, repetitive, dreary, and had expected the plot to be predictable. However, the story got more suspenseful and complex after page 100 or so. I became more interested in the characters and ended up reading most of the novel in one sitting.
I received this book in a Goodreads First Reads giveaway. :)
I received this book in a Goodreads First Reads giveaway. :)
June 16, 2013
The Thieves of Stonewood: Book I of the Stonewood Trilogy: Jeremy Hayes
Unions provide benefits for their employees. You get a pension; health insurance and hopefully people to get you pay raises and defend you when things go wrong. But, what happens when you are a down and out thief, which is your profession or trade and cannot get accept into their Guild which is the equivalent of a union in order to be able to commit crimes and steal? Poor Harcourt is sullen, withdrawn, and down and out on his luck and on top of everything else gets caught for stealing and is thrown in the dungeon for four months. Adept at sleight of hand and quite agile, Harcourt, if allowed could reap in a huge haul if no one stopped him. But, alienated from the most powerful guild, hated by the guards and constantly hit, beaten and abused Harcourt needs to find another way to survive. But, how when al he knows and ever wanted was to be a first class thief. Living in a world riddled with crime, corruption, police that are on the take, thieves, muggers and killers Harcourt needs to press hard to survive. Once a thief always a thief but with a good heart and a definite motivation to help his precious, Jalanna, his true love. Jalanna was seriously burned and her face permanently scarred in a fire causing her to cover her face with a black veil. Many shun at the sight of her bringing tears to her eyes. In order to provide the cure Harcourt needs to present a priest, who claims he can cure her with five thousand dollars worth of gold. But, where is a homeless thief to get such a stash? Throughout the start of the book you get to meet many different thieves, hear their voices and find out much about their world. Within this framework or Stonewood where this story takes place not only is there a Thieves Guild, a demon cult more dangerous than the thieves, the City Guard and corrupt police. The people of this city within many economic groups as it are divided into several districts and only those living in other than the South District are treated fairly.
Illusions are created in many ways and not everyone or everything is what it appears. Forced to leave Stonewood or be killed or beaten by the guards or the guild again he comes face to face with the most notorious and famous bandit or thief in the world. The One-Hand Bandit is what he is called but most know him as a wealthy nobleman. Listening to Harcourt’s story he decides to present him with something special that would change his life and his destiny. What if you could change your appearance at will? What if you could use this magic to create an illusion so powerful that you could pull off crimes and no one would ever know?
Finding his way to the Den to see his girlfriend the encounter allows readers to know where his heart really lies and that the disguise really works. But, everything has its limitations and as Cinderella had to be home at midnight or her coach would disappear, Harcourt could not use this special present for more than three days. Why? No one knows. Hoping to rob as many rich, get the five thousand pieces of gold to help cure his girlfriend, Harcourt forges ahead. But, not before he helps those that were kind to him and one young girl learns the true meaning of friendship and another will now be able to provide for so many others.
The true villains are Randar, Serdic and a guard named Zenod whose love of inflicting pain is almost as passionate as Harcourt’s goal to succeed and safe so many. But, Harcourt is impulsive and at times does not always think things through. Like a kid who wants ice cream and has to have it now, his capers often run awry. Angered by their lose of gold, the King beefing up security, the guard and the guild are definitely on their own high alert hoping to find out who is taking what they think is belongs to them.
Things take a different turn and Harcourt is able to get the gold need to repair his girlfriend’s face and remove her scars. But, one man’s hate for Harcourt turns his fate in a different direction. Facing a lifetime in jail Harcourt is wrongly accused of a murder he would never forget. Captain Dornell, although not one of Harcourt’s biggest fans decides to become his champion four years later. So, can Harcourt become part of an Investigation unit and help solve crimes? Will he find the man who committed the murder he was accused of? Just who is behind the murders of the guild members and who is behind those of the cult? Who committed a murder to mirror that of the one the cult would commit? What was their fatal mistake? Stonewood is not somewhere most people would want to live. A city filled with corruption, murder, hate and revenge on the part of those that are supposed to protect as well as they that want their bounties paid in gold. The innocent have no recourse and the guilty seem to be running the show. Author Jeremy Hayes takes us inside the minds of thieves, muggers, killers and one man you have to love, Harcourt even though he is a master thief.
Just how Harcourt learns the identity of the person who committed the murder he was accused of and why the Captain enlisted his help you won’t believe the twist of fate. Harcourt is smart and not just a thief and saving the life of one of the members of the Guild might help him get what he was after in the first place. How does he trick them into allowing him in? Who else that is close to him is in a position of authority? So many twists, turns and surprises that the author keeps readers guessing as Harcourt takes on more than just the Thieves Guild but the ghosts and the demon cult too. The scenes are quite graphic so not for the feint of heart but definitely so vividly depicted you can paint your own picture and reproduce it in your own mind.
Who winds up as the top thief at the end? What is Harcourt’s plan for revenge? An ending where you might say some get more than their just deserts and another gets an unexpected ending. What’s next for Harcourt and the Thieves Guild? Will the demon cult be eliminated? What about the corrupt guards? The answers we hope to these and many other questions in Book 2 of this trilogy.
Characters so unique and well crafted and groups intertwined to create this intricate plot author Jeremy Hayes will keep readers spellbound using the special magic that he has given Harcourt hoping to make sure that no one closes the book until you reach that very last page. Deceit, betrayals, trust, loyalties tested, new friendships formed and a caste system within the city and even within the guild, just how will Harcourt survive and what is next for him? Scenes that will make you hold your breath and others that will bring smiles to your face. Who is more corrupt: The Guards, the demon cult, the Thieves Guild or everyone? Who can be trusted? Would you want to entry into one of these groups? Is it worth being a thief? You decide for yourself or you can ask Harcourt!
Fran Lewis: reviewer
Unions provide benefits for their employees. You get a pension; health insurance and hopefully people to get you pay raises and defend you when things go wrong. But, what happens when you are a down and out thief, which is your profession or trade and cannot get accept into their Guild which is the equivalent of a union in order to be able to commit crimes and steal? Poor Harcourt is sullen, withdrawn, and down and out on his luck and on top of everything else gets caught for stealing and is thrown in the dungeon for four months. Adept at sleight of hand and quite agile, Harcourt, if allowed could reap in a huge haul if no one stopped him. But, alienated from the most powerful guild, hated by the guards and constantly hit, beaten and abused Harcourt needs to find another way to survive. But, how when al he knows and ever wanted was to be a first class thief. Living in a world riddled with crime, corruption, police that are on the take, thieves, muggers and killers Harcourt needs to press hard to survive. Once a thief always a thief but with a good heart and a definite motivation to help his precious, Jalanna, his true love. Jalanna was seriously burned and her face permanently scarred in a fire causing her to cover her face with a black veil. Many shun at the sight of her bringing tears to her eyes. In order to provide the cure Harcourt needs to present a priest, who claims he can cure her with five thousand dollars worth of gold. But, where is a homeless thief to get such a stash? Throughout the start of the book you get to meet many different thieves, hear their voices and find out much about their world. Within this framework or Stonewood where this story takes place not only is there a Thieves Guild, a demon cult more dangerous than the thieves, the City Guard and corrupt police. The people of this city within many economic groups as it are divided into several districts and only those living in other than the South District are treated fairly.
Illusions are created in many ways and not everyone or everything is what it appears. Forced to leave Stonewood or be killed or beaten by the guards or the guild again he comes face to face with the most notorious and famous bandit or thief in the world. The One-Hand Bandit is what he is called but most know him as a wealthy nobleman. Listening to Harcourt’s story he decides to present him with something special that would change his life and his destiny. What if you could change your appearance at will? What if you could use this magic to create an illusion so powerful that you could pull off crimes and no one would ever know?
Finding his way to the Den to see his girlfriend the encounter allows readers to know where his heart really lies and that the disguise really works. But, everything has its limitations and as Cinderella had to be home at midnight or her coach would disappear, Harcourt could not use this special present for more than three days. Why? No one knows. Hoping to rob as many rich, get the five thousand pieces of gold to help cure his girlfriend, Harcourt forges ahead. But, not before he helps those that were kind to him and one young girl learns the true meaning of friendship and another will now be able to provide for so many others.
The true villains are Randar, Serdic and a guard named Zenod whose love of inflicting pain is almost as passionate as Harcourt’s goal to succeed and safe so many. But, Harcourt is impulsive and at times does not always think things through. Like a kid who wants ice cream and has to have it now, his capers often run awry. Angered by their lose of gold, the King beefing up security, the guard and the guild are definitely on their own high alert hoping to find out who is taking what they think is belongs to them.
Things take a different turn and Harcourt is able to get the gold need to repair his girlfriend’s face and remove her scars. But, one man’s hate for Harcourt turns his fate in a different direction. Facing a lifetime in jail Harcourt is wrongly accused of a murder he would never forget. Captain Dornell, although not one of Harcourt’s biggest fans decides to become his champion four years later. So, can Harcourt become part of an Investigation unit and help solve crimes? Will he find the man who committed the murder he was accused of? Just who is behind the murders of the guild members and who is behind those of the cult? Who committed a murder to mirror that of the one the cult would commit? What was their fatal mistake? Stonewood is not somewhere most people would want to live. A city filled with corruption, murder, hate and revenge on the part of those that are supposed to protect as well as they that want their bounties paid in gold. The innocent have no recourse and the guilty seem to be running the show. Author Jeremy Hayes takes us inside the minds of thieves, muggers, killers and one man you have to love, Harcourt even though he is a master thief.
Just how Harcourt learns the identity of the person who committed the murder he was accused of and why the Captain enlisted his help you won’t believe the twist of fate. Harcourt is smart and not just a thief and saving the life of one of the members of the Guild might help him get what he was after in the first place. How does he trick them into allowing him in? Who else that is close to him is in a position of authority? So many twists, turns and surprises that the author keeps readers guessing as Harcourt takes on more than just the Thieves Guild but the ghosts and the demon cult too. The scenes are quite graphic so not for the feint of heart but definitely so vividly depicted you can paint your own picture and reproduce it in your own mind.
Who winds up as the top thief at the end? What is Harcourt’s plan for revenge? An ending where you might say some get more than their just deserts and another gets an unexpected ending. What’s next for Harcourt and the Thieves Guild? Will the demon cult be eliminated? What about the corrupt guards? The answers we hope to these and many other questions in Book 2 of this trilogy.
Characters so unique and well crafted and groups intertwined to create this intricate plot author Jeremy Hayes will keep readers spellbound using the special magic that he has given Harcourt hoping to make sure that no one closes the book until you reach that very last page. Deceit, betrayals, trust, loyalties tested, new friendships formed and a caste system within the city and even within the guild, just how will Harcourt survive and what is next for him? Scenes that will make you hold your breath and others that will bring smiles to your face. Who is more corrupt: The Guards, the demon cult, the Thieves Guild or everyone? Who can be trusted? Would you want to entry into one of these groups? Is it worth being a thief? You decide for yourself or you can ask Harcourt!
Fran Lewis: reviewer
July 10, 2025
Kinda felt like two books/plots condensed into one, but I still enjoyed following Harcourt’s journey.
September 12, 2018
This book was awesome, I really loved it. I'm definitely going to read the sequels very soon.
July 30, 2013
Easy to read, flowing. A world like ours, thus believable. Generations of poverty-stricken slum dwellers are kept down by corrupt criminals and law officials, escape in alcohol. A demon-worshiping cult, password "Lucivenus", led by evil priest, cuts out hearts to generate bad magic. Could be complicated, especially when the protagonist dons multiple disguises, but author Hayes has a knack for seeming straight and simple.
Even sorcery is like a favorite movie, Jim Carrey's "Mask", only downbeat. I did not laugh or cry here, as with favorites, yet want more. Names are short, easy to spell, and everyone is distinctly painted. (My fault I cannot remember any.)
Harcourt is 30, poor, drunk, discouraged by persistent bad luck, too obviously caused by his apparent pal Andil (Andillison Wulmcott p 283 - sounds like "worm"). Barmaid Jalanna Ezralys p 299 loves Harcourt, but he thinks she wants 5K gold pieces for priest to remove facial burns that disfigure her exotic loveliness.
I did not believe the cure, but this world does have spells. Warden, The One-Handed Thief, legendary, never-caught, and retired, gives Harcourt a magic mask that allows minor changes in body and voice too. (Dues ex machina?) Now Harcourt can steal funds to heal Jal. Harcourt is jailed for murder, but an unexpected savior steps in.
Little evidence of soft soul Jal sees in Harcourt, except his last coins not wasted on booze are donated to orphans, and the practice continues when he is rich. Scrawny Krestina grows up pretty, grateful, and ready for a sequel. Feylane, Guild's gorgeous raven-haired head assassin, believes Harcourt saved her from demon-worshipers, and retires to hunt the invisible cult. Only Harcourt knows respected Magistrate Krommel is a senior member. (The author chooses perfect names. Harcourt sounds like a noble castle, Krommel like a Nazi SS general.)
Not deep, but optimistic, straightforward. Plot, fight scenes are made simple to follow. Faulty human is not a super hero icon, yet a good neighbor I'd be glad to see eventually rewarded for kindness and patience. Expert Feylane, Warden in his retreat - readers have more to explore. Not strictly 5*, but starts a series I want to continue. Even the epilogue has a surprise.
Lingering question: Why don't I cry for Harcourt? He is too convincingly not heroic. I don't like him from the start, though sorry for him. In thirty years, how many times does he make a wrong turn where good Dornell goes right? Bad luck is caused by a bad enemy. His reason for living also causes his downfall. Fate deals him a gift, then his enemy deals a crushing blow. Chance seems to constantly kick him down. The ending is hard. I expect the other shoe to drop.
Even sorcery is like a favorite movie, Jim Carrey's "Mask", only downbeat. I did not laugh or cry here, as with favorites, yet want more. Names are short, easy to spell, and everyone is distinctly painted. (My fault I cannot remember any.)
Harcourt is 30, poor, drunk, discouraged by persistent bad luck, too obviously caused by his apparent pal Andil (Andillison Wulmcott p 283 - sounds like "worm"). Barmaid Jalanna Ezralys p 299 loves Harcourt, but he thinks she wants 5K gold pieces for priest to remove facial burns that disfigure her exotic loveliness.
I did not believe the cure, but this world does have spells. Warden, The One-Handed Thief, legendary, never-caught, and retired, gives Harcourt a magic mask that allows minor changes in body and voice too. (Dues ex machina?) Now Harcourt can steal funds to heal Jal. Harcourt is jailed for murder, but an unexpected savior steps in.
Little evidence of soft soul Jal sees in Harcourt, except his last coins not wasted on booze are donated to orphans, and the practice continues when he is rich. Scrawny Krestina grows up pretty, grateful, and ready for a sequel. Feylane, Guild's gorgeous raven-haired head assassin, believes Harcourt saved her from demon-worshipers, and retires to hunt the invisible cult. Only Harcourt knows respected Magistrate Krommel is a senior member. (The author chooses perfect names. Harcourt sounds like a noble castle, Krommel like a Nazi SS general.)
Not deep, but optimistic, straightforward. Plot, fight scenes are made simple to follow. Faulty human is not a super hero icon, yet a good neighbor I'd be glad to see eventually rewarded for kindness and patience. Expert Feylane, Warden in his retreat - readers have more to explore. Not strictly 5*, but starts a series I want to continue. Even the epilogue has a surprise.
Lingering question: Why don't I cry for Harcourt? He is too convincingly not heroic. I don't like him from the start, though sorry for him. In thirty years, how many times does he make a wrong turn where good Dornell goes right? Bad luck is caused by a bad enemy. His reason for living also causes his downfall. Fate deals him a gift, then his enemy deals a crushing blow. Chance seems to constantly kick him down. The ending is hard. I expect the other shoe to drop.
March 10, 2016
'The Thieves of Stonewood' fulfilled my expectations completely. When I had reached the end of the story (after reading half of the book in less than two days) I wasn't sure whether to give it 4 or 5 stars, but as I had noticed a couple of minor flaws in the storytelling and character-building, I'll settle for 4 stars.
Let talk about the protagonist first. I'd say Harcourt is an absolutely likeable character - he's a thief who (despite his criminal career) stays true to his principles throughout the entire story, and he's a character who has flaws. Although at some point it turns out that is streak of bad luck has nothing to do with him, traits like his curiosity and his compassion almost got him killed, so he isn't flawless, despite being the good guy. I did not only like Harcourt, I also empathised with him. I felt incredibly sorry when it seemed that he had lost everything, for instance.
However, at the beginning I sometimes felt like Harcourt was too nice, or maybe too good. The latter notion came up when he fought three Guild members at once, a situation in which he seemed a bit overpowered.
Although I liked Harcourt a lot, I have to say that many of the characters felt rather stereotypical, especially the villains. When Trascar was introduced I immediately thought he was a typical bad guy, and it did turn out that he's absolutely unlikeable. And I knew right away that the eerie man with the pale face and sunken eyes, who approached Harcourt while he was in despair, was a cult member - what else could he have been? I wished that my assumption would turn out wrong, but it didn't.
No need to mention Fezzdin here, I guess. Although it was good to see that Harcourt considered him as just as ridiculous-looking as I thought he was, Fezzdin was a slight disappointment. Even if he has to look the way he does - why does he play such a minor role in the plot?
However, I liked to see that other characters weren't as one-sided (which sounds much worse than I want it to sound), characters such as Andil. The only thing I noticed about him was how much emphasis was put on his appearance. I never counted how often it was mentioned how skinny, thin, or bony he is, but I feel like it was mentioned every time he appeared.
So much about the characters. The plot was very clever, which I enjoyed very much. In addition, I had no problem imagining the world the story is set in, and the city felt real enough for me (although I would have loved to have a city map at hand while reading!).
I can't wait to find out how the story around Harcourt proceeds, as the mystery around the demonic cult has not yet been solved, so I'll definitely read the second book!
One last thing… I wonder if there's more behind the character Whitemane. When he was introduced I sensed there was more behind him - most obviously because of the fact that it remains a mystery what really happened to him. But I thought there was something about him that might even have the potential to influence Harcourt's storyline. As this was never mentioned again in the course of this story, I hope this is something that will be thematised in the sequels.
Let talk about the protagonist first. I'd say Harcourt is an absolutely likeable character - he's a thief who (despite his criminal career) stays true to his principles throughout the entire story, and he's a character who has flaws. Although at some point it turns out that is streak of bad luck has nothing to do with him, traits like his curiosity and his compassion almost got him killed, so he isn't flawless, despite being the good guy. I did not only like Harcourt, I also empathised with him. I felt incredibly sorry when it seemed that he had lost everything, for instance.
However, at the beginning I sometimes felt like Harcourt was too nice, or maybe too good. The latter notion came up when he fought three Guild members at once, a situation in which he seemed a bit overpowered.
Although I liked Harcourt a lot, I have to say that many of the characters felt rather stereotypical, especially the villains. When Trascar was introduced I immediately thought he was a typical bad guy, and it did turn out that he's absolutely unlikeable. And I knew right away that the eerie man with the pale face and sunken eyes, who approached Harcourt while he was in despair, was a cult member - what else could he have been? I wished that my assumption would turn out wrong, but it didn't.
No need to mention Fezzdin here, I guess. Although it was good to see that Harcourt considered him as just as ridiculous-looking as I thought he was, Fezzdin was a slight disappointment. Even if he has to look the way he does - why does he play such a minor role in the plot?
However, I liked to see that other characters weren't as one-sided (which sounds much worse than I want it to sound), characters such as Andil. The only thing I noticed about him was how much emphasis was put on his appearance. I never counted how often it was mentioned how skinny, thin, or bony he is, but I feel like it was mentioned every time he appeared.
So much about the characters. The plot was very clever, which I enjoyed very much. In addition, I had no problem imagining the world the story is set in, and the city felt real enough for me (although I would have loved to have a city map at hand while reading!).
I can't wait to find out how the story around Harcourt proceeds, as the mystery around the demonic cult has not yet been solved, so I'll definitely read the second book!
One last thing… I wonder if there's more behind the character Whitemane. When he was introduced I sensed there was more behind him - most obviously because of the fact that it remains a mystery what really happened to him. But I thought there was something about him that might even have the potential to influence Harcourt's storyline. As this was never mentioned again in the course of this story, I hope this is something that will be thematised in the sequels.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 16, 2016
I wavered between a 4-star and a 2-star rating while reading this book, so, three stars it is. The basic premise drew me right in--I'm a sucker for tales of noble rogues--and the story itself remained interesting the whole way through.
Harcourt was an endearing protagonist. Even as a near-penniless alcoholic thief, he has a really adorable soft spot for orphans, performing magic tricks for them as he stumbles home from yet another bout in jail; and his love for the scarred barmaid Jalanna (and her reciprocal love for him) is also quite sweet.
The thing I had the most problems with in this book was the writing style. At best, the writing stayed out of the story's way; but occasionally the phrasing, dialogue, exposition etc. were a little cringe-worthy (Harcourt shouting 'No' with the exact same number of drawn-out O's on two separate occasions, frequent sections of unadorned exposition, and the like). The characters, on the whole, made sense.
The strongest thing going for this book is definitely the plot. the story was consistently interesting, and it delivered twist after twist--a sinister demon cult, a magical shape-shifting mask, betrayals and murders and alliances oh my.
There were a lot of plot elements I really loved--the old and legendary thief who taught Harcourt his secret to success and Harcourt's wrongful imprisonment for murder and eventual release, bent on vengeance, were my especial favorites. Over the course of the book, the story transformed from a sweet but sad romance to a bit of a thriller to a true crime novel and finally a revenge epic.
The revenge epic bit was admittedly my favorite. Harcourt proved himself a clever and thoughtful plotter, and ultimately the dastardly villains fell into a trap of their own making--which always makes for a satisfying read.
Ultimately, in spite of its shortcomings, this book was really enjoyable. the story, its hero and all the adversity thrown his way, was just fun. I'll be interested to see how the story develops over the rest of the trilogy :)
Harcourt was an endearing protagonist. Even as a near-penniless alcoholic thief, he has a really adorable soft spot for orphans, performing magic tricks for them as he stumbles home from yet another bout in jail; and his love for the scarred barmaid Jalanna (and her reciprocal love for him) is also quite sweet.
The thing I had the most problems with in this book was the writing style. At best, the writing stayed out of the story's way; but occasionally the phrasing, dialogue, exposition etc. were a little cringe-worthy (Harcourt shouting 'No' with the exact same number of drawn-out O's on two separate occasions, frequent sections of unadorned exposition, and the like). The characters, on the whole, made sense.
The strongest thing going for this book is definitely the plot. the story was consistently interesting, and it delivered twist after twist--a sinister demon cult, a magical shape-shifting mask, betrayals and murders and alliances oh my.
There were a lot of plot elements I really loved--the old and legendary thief who taught Harcourt his secret to success and Harcourt's wrongful imprisonment for murder and eventual release, bent on vengeance, were my especial favorites. Over the course of the book, the story transformed from a sweet but sad romance to a bit of a thriller to a true crime novel and finally a revenge epic.
The revenge epic bit was admittedly my favorite. Harcourt proved himself a clever and thoughtful plotter, and ultimately the dastardly villains fell into a trap of their own making--which always makes for a satisfying read.
Ultimately, in spite of its shortcomings, this book was really enjoyable. the story, its hero and all the adversity thrown his way, was just fun. I'll be interested to see how the story develops over the rest of the trilogy :)
January 13, 2016
This book was passed on to me by my daughter, who won it as part of a Goodreads First Reads giveaway. The author had been kind enough to send the entire trilogy to her.
The story started a bit slowly for me. It took me some time to warm to Harcourt, the tale's protagonist. An underrated thief who is repeatedly refused entry into the Thieves Guild in the city of Stonewood, Harcourt struggles on the edge of poverty as all his efforts to make a living go horribly awry. He's caught time and again and sent to the dungeons as punishment. This causes strife between him and his lady love Jalana, a waitress in the tavern Harcourt frequents. He desperately wants to have a big take so that he can pay to have her magically healed of the burn scars that force her to hide her previously beautiful face behind a veil.
Then a chance meeting with a wealthy and mysterious stranger changes Harcourt's fortunes. His benefactor gifts him with a magical object that helps him become the greatest thief in the city. He lives a double life as a wealthy trader, while still appearing to Jalana as himself. He easily accrues the necessary gold to restore Jalana to her former beauty. But the leaders of the Thieves Guild are suspicious of the unknown thief who has put them all to shame. Harcourt is treading a thin line between achieving happiness with the woman he loves and being a hunted man with a bounty on his head.
The story takes off when Harcourt receives his magical gift. Events move swiftly with exciting twists and near misses. I enjoyed the magical elements and found myself rooting for Harcourt and Jalana. I won't go into detail as I wouldn't want to spoil a fun read for anyone else.
I highly recommend this book to fans of fantasy and magical tales. I can't wait to read the next book in the series.
The story started a bit slowly for me. It took me some time to warm to Harcourt, the tale's protagonist. An underrated thief who is repeatedly refused entry into the Thieves Guild in the city of Stonewood, Harcourt struggles on the edge of poverty as all his efforts to make a living go horribly awry. He's caught time and again and sent to the dungeons as punishment. This causes strife between him and his lady love Jalana, a waitress in the tavern Harcourt frequents. He desperately wants to have a big take so that he can pay to have her magically healed of the burn scars that force her to hide her previously beautiful face behind a veil.
Then a chance meeting with a wealthy and mysterious stranger changes Harcourt's fortunes. His benefactor gifts him with a magical object that helps him become the greatest thief in the city. He lives a double life as a wealthy trader, while still appearing to Jalana as himself. He easily accrues the necessary gold to restore Jalana to her former beauty. But the leaders of the Thieves Guild are suspicious of the unknown thief who has put them all to shame. Harcourt is treading a thin line between achieving happiness with the woman he loves and being a hunted man with a bounty on his head.
The story takes off when Harcourt receives his magical gift. Events move swiftly with exciting twists and near misses. I enjoyed the magical elements and found myself rooting for Harcourt and Jalana. I won't go into detail as I wouldn't want to spoil a fun read for anyone else.
I highly recommend this book to fans of fantasy and magical tales. I can't wait to read the next book in the series.
May 13, 2013
"The Thieves of Stonewood" by author Jeremy Hayes is different than the average fantasy adventure novel. The author has good command of language and this book is written in a unique style that gives the reader all the information they need without an overabundance of description. The characters are good at showing what they are doing without the author using too many telling phrases throughout his work.
For the first couple of chapters, the author focuses on introducing his cast of characters and setting up the story. By the third chapter, the book begins to take off and you may find it difficult to put down. I did. This was an adventure worthy of reading all in one sitting, so great was the desire to know what would happen next.
The dialogue in this novel is really well written. There is never a question of who is speaking and there is nothing unnecessary included, so the conversations feel very realistic and like you are listening to someone actually speak.
There is danger, excitement, a bit of mystery and characters that are easy to love and follow throughout the story. The setting is richly described and gives you a visually pleasing sense of your surroundings, making you feel as if you are really there.
If I had to choose one thing that I would have changed about this story, it would have been the lack of excitement in the first couple of chapters. I fear some may not give this book a proper chance and find out how amazing it really is if they give up early. It does get very exciting a short while after.
Overall this was a joy to read and I look forward to seeing what comes next. I would recommend this book to anyone who loves a well thought fantasy novel with some unique and original characters.
For the first couple of chapters, the author focuses on introducing his cast of characters and setting up the story. By the third chapter, the book begins to take off and you may find it difficult to put down. I did. This was an adventure worthy of reading all in one sitting, so great was the desire to know what would happen next.
The dialogue in this novel is really well written. There is never a question of who is speaking and there is nothing unnecessary included, so the conversations feel very realistic and like you are listening to someone actually speak.
There is danger, excitement, a bit of mystery and characters that are easy to love and follow throughout the story. The setting is richly described and gives you a visually pleasing sense of your surroundings, making you feel as if you are really there.
If I had to choose one thing that I would have changed about this story, it would have been the lack of excitement in the first couple of chapters. I fear some may not give this book a proper chance and find out how amazing it really is if they give up early. It does get very exciting a short while after.
Overall this was a joy to read and I look forward to seeing what comes next. I would recommend this book to anyone who loves a well thought fantasy novel with some unique and original characters.
October 27, 2014
(I received this book for free as part of Goodreads First Reads giveaways).
(This review may contain spoilers).
The author of one of the previous giveaways I'd entered kindly sent me the first in his fantasy trilogy as well. I was quite surprised by how quickly and easily I was drawn into this world and the characters and their situations.
I found myself quite liking Harcourt as a character. I felt quite sympathetic towards him throughout a lot of the book and I really liked his relationship with Jalanna. There were a lot of sweet moments about that.
I was a bit unsure about some of the other characters Harcourt interacted with, I have to say. A lot of them weren't really 'good' characters, but I found some of them still quite interesting and I would have liked to see more of their pasts and motivations.
It was intriguing to see the way the corruption had spread through the city. This isn't the first book I've read which has a thieves' guild, but I was quite interested by the fact that there was the cult that played such a big part in this. I was a bit disappointed not to see more about what the cult was trying to do, but I expect that might be covered more in the next two books in the trilogy.
There were quite a few dark moments in this book... more than I was really expecting. I was pulled more deeply into the story after Harcourt met Warden and I started seeing more of his skills as a thief.
This is definitely a world I would be interested in seeing more of at some point in the future. I'd like to read the next two books in this series eventually.
(This review may contain spoilers).
The author of one of the previous giveaways I'd entered kindly sent me the first in his fantasy trilogy as well. I was quite surprised by how quickly and easily I was drawn into this world and the characters and their situations.
I found myself quite liking Harcourt as a character. I felt quite sympathetic towards him throughout a lot of the book and I really liked his relationship with Jalanna. There were a lot of sweet moments about that.
I was a bit unsure about some of the other characters Harcourt interacted with, I have to say. A lot of them weren't really 'good' characters, but I found some of them still quite interesting and I would have liked to see more of their pasts and motivations.
It was intriguing to see the way the corruption had spread through the city. This isn't the first book I've read which has a thieves' guild, but I was quite interested by the fact that there was the cult that played such a big part in this. I was a bit disappointed not to see more about what the cult was trying to do, but I expect that might be covered more in the next two books in the trilogy.
There were quite a few dark moments in this book... more than I was really expecting. I was pulled more deeply into the story after Harcourt met Warden and I started seeing more of his skills as a thief.
This is definitely a world I would be interested in seeing more of at some point in the future. I'd like to read the next two books in this series eventually.
July 2, 2013
By way of disclaimer, I should say that the type of fantasy I usually go for is modern fantasy or speculative with a hint of romance. But I am very glad I branched out of my normal routine to read the Thieves of Stonewood by Jeremy Hayes. At page 100, I was flipping ahead to see how many more pages I'd have to read. By page 130 I was lost in the story, and by page 230, I was non-responsive to my family because I had to plow ahead to the end.
Here are three things I like about this book.
1) The action scenes are very visual. I read in the bio that Jeremy Hayes comes from the boxing world. I imagine he drew from his knowledge to create detailed and exciting fight scenes, and he succeeded.
2) Harcourt, the protagonist, is very sympathetic. Harcourt is a thief who comes from poverty. He has lived through horrifically hard times, but he follows his own sense of morality which he honors through the book.
3) There are some terrific twists and turns in the plot, and things are not always what they seem, but Hayes did his job and provided just enough foreshadowing to make it all work.
I recommend you read this book - especially if you enjoy the combination of action and fantasy.
Here are three things I like about this book.
1) The action scenes are very visual. I read in the bio that Jeremy Hayes comes from the boxing world. I imagine he drew from his knowledge to create detailed and exciting fight scenes, and he succeeded.
2) Harcourt, the protagonist, is very sympathetic. Harcourt is a thief who comes from poverty. He has lived through horrifically hard times, but he follows his own sense of morality which he honors through the book.
3) There are some terrific twists and turns in the plot, and things are not always what they seem, but Hayes did his job and provided just enough foreshadowing to make it all work.
I recommend you read this book - especially if you enjoy the combination of action and fantasy.
May 3, 2014
The Thieves of Stonewood, by Jeremy Hayes, was the first book I had ever received thanks to Goodreads, and it was a great start to my experience.
The book started off a little slow and I was a bit unsure if I would enjoy it or not, but very quickly the pace quickened and I couldn't turn the pages fast enough.
I love a quick-witted rogue character and this novel gave me just that. Harcourt was a very enjoyable character to follow. However, Jeremy Hayes, doesn't just stick to Harcourt's point of view. Unlike many authors, Hayes doesn't lock the reader into one perspective throughout the entire novel, he provides the reader with a much broader range of view. The point of view changes throughout the novel in order to reveal different characters motives and feelings. This perspective switch was especially effective when used to demonstrate Harcourt's schemes from the viewpoint of the target or victim.
The novel was full of excitement, action, romance, and tragedy (In my opinion, key elements of any fantasy novel). I am absolutely ecstatic that I was given the chance to read this book and share my opinion. Now I'm off to read the second book, and I know I won't be able to put this book down either.
The book started off a little slow and I was a bit unsure if I would enjoy it or not, but very quickly the pace quickened and I couldn't turn the pages fast enough.
I love a quick-witted rogue character and this novel gave me just that. Harcourt was a very enjoyable character to follow. However, Jeremy Hayes, doesn't just stick to Harcourt's point of view. Unlike many authors, Hayes doesn't lock the reader into one perspective throughout the entire novel, he provides the reader with a much broader range of view. The point of view changes throughout the novel in order to reveal different characters motives and feelings. This perspective switch was especially effective when used to demonstrate Harcourt's schemes from the viewpoint of the target or victim.
The novel was full of excitement, action, romance, and tragedy (In my opinion, key elements of any fantasy novel). I am absolutely ecstatic that I was given the chance to read this book and share my opinion. Now I'm off to read the second book, and I know I won't be able to put this book down either.
July 2, 2013
I rarely write reviews any more but after being asked by the author if I would like to read and review The Thieves of Stonewood I have been compelled to let everyone know how great this book was.
Harcourt is a thief in need of money, and a lot of it. He has been trying to get membership into the Guild of Thieves for years but is constantly denied due to his apparent lack of luck. The love of his life, Jalanna, was scarred horribly in a fire and Harcourt has made it his mission to try to get her healed. He is a very likable guy surrounded by a variety of seedy characters and one wonders when he is going to try to turn his life around and get a "real" job.
I found the story to be fast paced and easy to read. It was fun and I had a difficult time putting it down. There were constant surprises and twists and turns, but not too much that you might find it overwhelming. The ending was unexpected, up until the very last page.
I am *really* looking forward to the 2nd installment and have already recommended this book to several friends. If you enjoy fantasy and love getting hooked in a book, you should really try this one!
Harcourt is a thief in need of money, and a lot of it. He has been trying to get membership into the Guild of Thieves for years but is constantly denied due to his apparent lack of luck. The love of his life, Jalanna, was scarred horribly in a fire and Harcourt has made it his mission to try to get her healed. He is a very likable guy surrounded by a variety of seedy characters and one wonders when he is going to try to turn his life around and get a "real" job.
I found the story to be fast paced and easy to read. It was fun and I had a difficult time putting it down. There were constant surprises and twists and turns, but not too much that you might find it overwhelming. The ending was unexpected, up until the very last page.
I am *really* looking forward to the 2nd installment and have already recommended this book to several friends. If you enjoy fantasy and love getting hooked in a book, you should really try this one!
January 2, 2014
This is the tale of a thief who has a very bad luck and who wants to only raise enough money to heal the love of his life. It a great tale, one full of deceit, tragedy, and revenge. The author did a great job of building the lay of the land, explaining how things worked in stonewood, and kept you guessing right up to the end how things were going to play out. I was very sad that the lover of the thief did not fair well in the story though.
I am interested to see where the thief goes in the next tale.
I am interested to see where the thief goes in the next tale.
December 11, 2013
I received this book when I won the Demon of Stonewood as a first read book.I am happy that I got this one it really set the ground work for the next one which I started.
this book tells the story of a young man who has bad luck until his meets a man who gives him a gift that changes his life. this gift helps to to find out some reasons behind his bad luck.
I just wish we had gotten to the gift sooner in the story.
this book tells the story of a young man who has bad luck until his meets a man who gives him a gift that changes his life. this gift helps to to find out some reasons behind his bad luck.
I just wish we had gotten to the gift sooner in the story.
November 14, 2016
Good world building in this story of a luckless thief. I loved the character of Harcourt and felt a lot of sympathy for him. This is a story of love, hate and betrayal. Harcourt both wins and losses. A good read that becomes complicated at times, but it's still an easy and enjoyable read. There's a lovely twist at the end. I would recommend this to all sword and sorcery fans.
May 5, 2019
Honestly this is the book that got me into reading. I absolutely use to hate reading until I had a grade 11 reading assignment and stumbled into this book in our library. This book is actually all i was ever looking for in a book. A mix of suspense, action, fantasy. With thieves and magic
April 29, 2013
Awesome adventure/fantasy read! Couldn't put it down once I started. A cross between 'Count of Monte Cristo' and 'Aladdin'.
July 4, 2014
Read Scott Lynch instead.
Want to read
April 21, 2013I Received this book in a Goodreads First-Reads give away.
Full review to follow.
Full review to follow.
May 1, 2014
this book was send to me by the author and i was pleasently surprised that i liked it alot.
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