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Highland Magic #1
Gifted Thief
Orphan. Runaway. Thief.
Since the moment I was ripped from my mother's womb, I've been an outcast amongst my own kind. The Sidhe might possess magical Gifts, unbelievable wealth and unfathomable power but I don't want a thing to do with them. I ran away from their lands in the Highlands of Scotland when I was eleven years old and I've never looked back. I don't need a Clan. I've got my own family of highly skilled thieves who mean more to me than any Sidhe ever could.
Unfortunately for me, the playboy heir to the Moncrieffe Clan has something I desperately need. To get it back, I'm going to have to plunge myself back into that world, no matter what the consequences may be. I suppose it's just as well I have sense of humour. I think I'm going to need it.
Since the moment I was ripped from my mother's womb, I've been an outcast amongst my own kind. The Sidhe might possess magical Gifts, unbelievable wealth and unfathomable power but I don't want a thing to do with them. I ran away from their lands in the Highlands of Scotland when I was eleven years old and I've never looked back. I don't need a Clan. I've got my own family of highly skilled thieves who mean more to me than any Sidhe ever could.
Unfortunately for me, the playboy heir to the Moncrieffe Clan has something I desperately need. To get it back, I'm going to have to plunge myself back into that world, no matter what the consequences may be. I suppose it's just as well I have sense of humour. I think I'm going to need it.
348 pages, Paperback
First published January 29, 2016
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 534 reviews
May 11, 2017
Orphan. Runaway. Thief.
I really liked Helen Harper's Blood Destiny series, hell I liked it enough to re-read the whole series, though Gifted Thief just didn't do it for me. The main character Integrity annoyed the living shit out of me, with her awful jokes, her thinking too highly of herself (at least that was what I felt) and her lying. I just couldn't stand her. She did have a few good comebacks though....
‘Nice legs. When do they open?’
Oh, he so did not want to go there. I fixed him with my coldest look and brushed my index finger against his lips. ‘Nice mouth. When does it shut?’
The only one I found a little bit interesting was Byron, but even that wasn't enough to give this book three stars. Heck, I even considered to quit the book once or twice, but I kicked myself in the butt and told myself that I couldn't give up. I'm glad I didn't, but still, the book was unfortunately a bust for me :/ Hope others have major luck with it! Who knows, I might still be in my damn reading slump...
Rate: 2.5 stars.
June 5, 2016
I guess I am the kind of reader who doesn’t mind a few punctuation mistakes from independent writers who are starting out and do not have the money for editors. I can forgive that. The book doesn’t have to be perfect, but I am a stickler for good writing. For me to really enjoy a book, the writing has to make sense, the writing has to be tight, the language should be good, the characters should be good(I should like the main character), and the interaction between characters should be meaningful and add to the story. Unfortunately, I didn’t feel like Gifted Thief by Helen Harper succeeded in those areas.
I didn’t like the main character, Integrity. She is unpleasant most of the time. I am convinced she has ODD in a bad, snarky sort of way. She is contrary and nasty to people she doesn’t know well in an in-your-face sort of way. I thought she was pretty obnoxious. She also likes to call attention to herself a lot. It became annoying. The bad jokes she makes all the time are sometimes inappropriate. She could have been a good character if she hadn’t have been so unpleasant.
“’Tell me a joke,’ she said.
My chest tightened. ‘I am not sure this is the time.’
Barbie snickered and Lily reached out. ‘Please?’
I stared after the departing Sidhe and thought about my role in William Kinkad’s death.
‘I’m sorry and I apologize don’t mean the same thing,’ I finally said, ‘Except at a funeral.’
Lily swung her hair. ‘That’s not really funny.’
‘No,’ I agreed sadly. ‘It’s not.’”
Integrity is seriously messed up. Trying to crack a funeral joke after someone has literally died right in front of her. I don’t see how that added to the story other than to show that Integrity has bad taste and poor judgment.
"‘Nice legs. When do they open?’
Oh, he so did not want to go there. I fixed him with my coldest look and brushed my index finger against his lips. ‘Nice mouth. When does it shut?’"
Passages like this just didn’t make sense to me. I certainly wouldn’t get close enough to the guy to touch him, much less put my finger against his lips - especially after he said something like that to me. Touching someone's lips is personal and intimate. She could have pointed. Integrity is a tease and likes to send a lot of mixed messages. The character just didn’t make sense to me.
Integrity and a guy she just meets are attacked by a monster. They manage to survive, and then because they are so excited to be alive, they celebrate by having sex. ??? Then the guy she secretly is attracted to (Byron) comes into the room. The guy she had sex with grabs his clothes and runs out of the room (he is friends with Byron) and Integrity just lays there in the bed naked. Integrity says something like Byron isn't going to make her ashamed, so she doesn't cover herself up. There is something to be said for a little modesty. The interaction between the characters doesn't make sense. I also don't see how this added to the story line.
I did like the character Byron, and some of the other minor characters. I also think that the story was a good idea. With a different main character, the book would have been a lot better.
I did not care for this book. I know that a lot of work goes into a book, so I don't want to be too negative. I wanted to like Gifted Thief, but I can't really recommend this book.
I didn’t like the main character, Integrity. She is unpleasant most of the time. I am convinced she has ODD in a bad, snarky sort of way. She is contrary and nasty to people she doesn’t know well in an in-your-face sort of way. I thought she was pretty obnoxious. She also likes to call attention to herself a lot. It became annoying. The bad jokes she makes all the time are sometimes inappropriate. She could have been a good character if she hadn’t have been so unpleasant.
“’Tell me a joke,’ she said.
My chest tightened. ‘I am not sure this is the time.’
Barbie snickered and Lily reached out. ‘Please?’
I stared after the departing Sidhe and thought about my role in William Kinkad’s death.
‘I’m sorry and I apologize don’t mean the same thing,’ I finally said, ‘Except at a funeral.’
Lily swung her hair. ‘That’s not really funny.’
‘No,’ I agreed sadly. ‘It’s not.’”
Integrity is seriously messed up. Trying to crack a funeral joke after someone has literally died right in front of her. I don’t see how that added to the story other than to show that Integrity has bad taste and poor judgment.
"‘Nice legs. When do they open?’
Oh, he so did not want to go there. I fixed him with my coldest look and brushed my index finger against his lips. ‘Nice mouth. When does it shut?’"
Passages like this just didn’t make sense to me. I certainly wouldn’t get close enough to the guy to touch him, much less put my finger against his lips - especially after he said something like that to me. Touching someone's lips is personal and intimate. She could have pointed. Integrity is a tease and likes to send a lot of mixed messages. The character just didn’t make sense to me.
Integrity and a guy she just meets are attacked by a monster. They manage to survive, and then because they are so excited to be alive, they celebrate by having sex. ??? Then the guy she secretly is attracted to (Byron) comes into the room. The guy she had sex with grabs his clothes and runs out of the room (he is friends with Byron) and Integrity just lays there in the bed naked. Integrity says something like Byron isn't going to make her ashamed, so she doesn't cover herself up. There is something to be said for a little modesty. The interaction between the characters doesn't make sense. I also don't see how this added to the story line.
I did like the character Byron, and some of the other minor characters. I also think that the story was a good idea. With a different main character, the book would have been a lot better.
I did not care for this book. I know that a lot of work goes into a book, so I don't want to be too negative. I wanted to like Gifted Thief, but I can't really recommend this book.
January 27, 2016
Gifted Thief was a vibrant start to the Highland Magic series.
Integrity, an outcast, the runaway, clanless, has been living by her wits and survival skills for almost longer than she can remember. She is shocked to discover the high born clans have been keeping their eye on her. Wanting nothing to do with clans, Integrity is pulled back kicking and screaming into their world of deceit and magical manipulation by none other than Byron, prince charming of the clans.
She is the last surviving member of her clan, it was all but wiped out, leaving a black mark in everyone’s memory. The deeper Integrity delves into her clan history the more she discovers that the history has been rewritten by someone who wishes to do her harm.
Integrity must pull out all the stops and employee all her well-honed skills if she wishes to survive her return to her rightful place being the last of Clan Adair.
There is a chemistry at play between Integrity and Byron that has potential but overall this is Integrity’s search for truth.
She does bring along her side kicks, partners in crime (quite literally), which provide some great character interactions.
Definitely a series I will continue to follow, Gifted Thief left me hanging and looking for more to come.
I receive this ARC copy of Gifted Thief from HarperFire in exchange for a honest review. This book is set for publication Jan. 29, 2016.
My rating: 4 stars
Written by: Helen Harper
Series: Highland Magic
Sequence in Series: 1
Paperback: 348 pages
Publisher: HarperFire
Publication Date: Jan. 29, 3016
ISBN-10: 1519683820
ISBN-13: 978-1519683823
Genre: Urban Fantasy
Amazon: http://www.amazon.com/Gifted-Thief-He...
For Reviews and More Check out: http://tometender.blogspot.com
Integrity, an outcast, the runaway, clanless, has been living by her wits and survival skills for almost longer than she can remember. She is shocked to discover the high born clans have been keeping their eye on her. Wanting nothing to do with clans, Integrity is pulled back kicking and screaming into their world of deceit and magical manipulation by none other than Byron, prince charming of the clans.
She is the last surviving member of her clan, it was all but wiped out, leaving a black mark in everyone’s memory. The deeper Integrity delves into her clan history the more she discovers that the history has been rewritten by someone who wishes to do her harm.
Integrity must pull out all the stops and employee all her well-honed skills if she wishes to survive her return to her rightful place being the last of Clan Adair.
There is a chemistry at play between Integrity and Byron that has potential but overall this is Integrity’s search for truth.
She does bring along her side kicks, partners in crime (quite literally), which provide some great character interactions.
Definitely a series I will continue to follow, Gifted Thief left me hanging and looking for more to come.
I receive this ARC copy of Gifted Thief from HarperFire in exchange for a honest review. This book is set for publication Jan. 29, 2016.
My rating: 4 stars
Written by: Helen Harper
Series: Highland Magic
Sequence in Series: 1
Paperback: 348 pages
Publisher: HarperFire
Publication Date: Jan. 29, 3016
ISBN-10: 1519683820
ISBN-13: 978-1519683823
Genre: Urban Fantasy
Amazon: http://www.amazon.com/Gifted-Thief-He...
For Reviews and More Check out: http://tometender.blogspot.com
November 13, 2016
Review originally posted on The Book Adventures of Annelise Lestrange :)
I received this copy through NetGalley in exchange of an honest review. Let's go :D
The Story
Integrity has to admit that she is not exactly the number one citizen on town. Since escaping the Sidhe domain when she was eleven, Integrity learned everything that a high class thief needs to know and she is the best on what she does.
The problem is that you can’t escape your past forever. Especially when it comes on the form of a beautiful and sexy man named Byron, that knows exactly what he wants from Integrity and worse: how to get it.
Now Integrity has a big decision on her hands: to bow to the wishes of the people that always have hated her and help them out or to leave the Sidhe to their own luck and watch their magic end millions of lives – and not just Sidhe lives.
The Analysis
Just remembering that those were my impressions and opinion as a reader :)
Honestly, this book. I don’t recall the last time that I fell so hard for a female main character as I did for Integrity. She had me since page one and never once lost me – which is a very important accomplishment, as the book is narrated in first person by her and I usually have no patient at all with the protagonists. But I connected in such a level with her, it was just like if I had found a new best friend. I actually cried when the book ended because there would be no more Integrity waiting for me on my e-reader (and the end was perfect, just saying). I don’t know how I’m going to keep breathing until February, when the sequel is to be released. Helen Harper did a hell of a job here and think every human being on the planet should read this book. If I could, I would rate it a million stars <3
The narrative pace was first person from Integrity’s point of view, which started as an annoyance. You know, on the first page of chapter one. Then, I fell in love with Integrity in a fashion that I simply can’t explain. She was so strong, but so human…. But I’ll get there, haha! It didn’t bother me at all that I didn’t know what as happening with the other characters during the book and this is new for me. I always want to know everything and that’s why I bitch over first narrative styles. Harper was so badass on her writing style that I was happy with Integrity and crawling for more, haha! Seriously, I don’t promise an impartial review this time, because I simply can’t measure perfection.
The plot was wonderful. It seemed like it was simple, but there were so many twists and action that I never knew where I was standing with the people around Integrity – even with her friends. The way Integrity told us how things were was tons of fun. Harper inserted her reader on the story, making me feel like I was a voyeur to every scene, every dialogue. I’m in love.
For the sake of your sanity, I’ll first talk about the characters overall and then Integrity :)
Harper knew exactly what she was doing with her characters. They all are insanely well built and deep, even the ones that are not that important. You feel that they are emotionally human and real. Byron made his way into my bookish boyfriends list with his bad boy gone good way. To be honest, I still don’t know if he his all that good, but I shall have to wait until February to find out, haha! Jamie was a cutie, but not my kind of cutie. Taylor also was a hell of a man for raising Integrity as he did and I love him for that <3 Also, there is Bob, the little genie in all his cuteness and mischief. This book has too many huggable characters <3 There is also Lexi and Lily, the other nice girls. And Tipsy. O loved that this is the official nickname of this bitch, haha! I hated her, ugh.
Now, Integrity. Oh, Integrity. She was such a strong woman, sure of herself and of what she wanted… Even when she doubted herself, she was still in control of her emotions. Don’t get me wrong, she has her flaws. She does really bad jokes and has a bad timing in knowing when to shut up and stay low, but I am too enchanted to be bothered. Everything that she did seemed right, haha!
A really great point on this book (you know, besides all the other great things that I already said), is the semi-dystopian vibe. It’s the world that you know, but not quite. I loved the way Harper mixed magical races and what they could do in this book. Seriously, February won’t be here fast enough.
If you like strong main female characters, dystopian books, beautiful males, adventure and action with a touch of romance, just READ THIS BOOK.
Thank you for indulging me until the end of this review, I love you <3 You can find Gifted Thief both on ebook and paperback formats on Amazon.
I received this copy through NetGalley in exchange of an honest review. Let's go :D
The Story
Integrity has to admit that she is not exactly the number one citizen on town. Since escaping the Sidhe domain when she was eleven, Integrity learned everything that a high class thief needs to know and she is the best on what she does.
The problem is that you can’t escape your past forever. Especially when it comes on the form of a beautiful and sexy man named Byron, that knows exactly what he wants from Integrity and worse: how to get it.
Now Integrity has a big decision on her hands: to bow to the wishes of the people that always have hated her and help them out or to leave the Sidhe to their own luck and watch their magic end millions of lives – and not just Sidhe lives.
The Analysis
Just remembering that those were my impressions and opinion as a reader :)
Honestly, this book. I don’t recall the last time that I fell so hard for a female main character as I did for Integrity. She had me since page one and never once lost me – which is a very important accomplishment, as the book is narrated in first person by her and I usually have no patient at all with the protagonists. But I connected in such a level with her, it was just like if I had found a new best friend. I actually cried when the book ended because there would be no more Integrity waiting for me on my e-reader (and the end was perfect, just saying). I don’t know how I’m going to keep breathing until February, when the sequel is to be released. Helen Harper did a hell of a job here and think every human being on the planet should read this book. If I could, I would rate it a million stars <3
The narrative pace was first person from Integrity’s point of view, which started as an annoyance. You know, on the first page of chapter one. Then, I fell in love with Integrity in a fashion that I simply can’t explain. She was so strong, but so human…. But I’ll get there, haha! It didn’t bother me at all that I didn’t know what as happening with the other characters during the book and this is new for me. I always want to know everything and that’s why I bitch over first narrative styles. Harper was so badass on her writing style that I was happy with Integrity and crawling for more, haha! Seriously, I don’t promise an impartial review this time, because I simply can’t measure perfection.
The plot was wonderful. It seemed like it was simple, but there were so many twists and action that I never knew where I was standing with the people around Integrity – even with her friends. The way Integrity told us how things were was tons of fun. Harper inserted her reader on the story, making me feel like I was a voyeur to every scene, every dialogue. I’m in love.
For the sake of your sanity, I’ll first talk about the characters overall and then Integrity :)
Harper knew exactly what she was doing with her characters. They all are insanely well built and deep, even the ones that are not that important. You feel that they are emotionally human and real. Byron made his way into my bookish boyfriends list with his bad boy gone good way. To be honest, I still don’t know if he his all that good, but I shall have to wait until February to find out, haha! Jamie was a cutie, but not my kind of cutie. Taylor also was a hell of a man for raising Integrity as he did and I love him for that <3 Also, there is Bob, the little genie in all his cuteness and mischief. This book has too many huggable characters <3 There is also Lexi and Lily, the other nice girls. And Tipsy. O loved that this is the official nickname of this bitch, haha! I hated her, ugh.
Now, Integrity. Oh, Integrity. She was such a strong woman, sure of herself and of what she wanted… Even when she doubted herself, she was still in control of her emotions. Don’t get me wrong, she has her flaws. She does really bad jokes and has a bad timing in knowing when to shut up and stay low, but I am too enchanted to be bothered. Everything that she did seemed right, haha!
A really great point on this book (you know, besides all the other great things that I already said), is the semi-dystopian vibe. It’s the world that you know, but not quite. I loved the way Harper mixed magical races and what they could do in this book. Seriously, February won’t be here fast enough.
If you like strong main female characters, dystopian books, beautiful males, adventure and action with a touch of romance, just READ THIS BOOK.
Thank you for indulging me until the end of this review, I love you <3 You can find Gifted Thief both on ebook and paperback formats on Amazon.
December 22, 2017
I know she wasn’t with hero but WTH she sleeps with his best friend and acts like it’s no big deal just something that happened in the moment! Up until then I loved her snarky humour and the side characters but sleeping with om so casually is not something I like in my books. Unfortunately I won’t be continuing the series.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 27, 2018
Integrity ( don’t you just love that name ? ) is no longer the downtrodden, much reviled outcast that she spent her childhood being. She walked away from the Sidhe Court and has reinvented herself because Integrity has found her place in the world as a very successful thief ! Yes there’s sweet irony there but hey it adds to the fun . Not the normal career choice perhaps but for Integrity it’s a fit and as the last member of her clan she wants nothing to do with the Sidhe. Trouble is there’s a huge problem brewing in the Courts and Integrity is about to find herself blackmailed into going back . Fear not though as she’s doing it on her own terms and woe betide anyone who underestimates her .
I had a love hate relationship with Integrity as I liked her sense of humour which is relentless, adored her loyalty to her friends but boy did I question her morals. She spends a lot of time lusting for one character then can’t wait to rip the clothes off his friend ! However I must quickly state that it’s not a sexy scene as the author keeps a fast pace which works beautifully.
There’s a lot left to the readers imagination as there’s so much still to learn about Integrity’s parents and exactly what happened all those years ago . I truly enjoyed her progression in this story as she’s really starting to get wise to the cruel and dangerous world she’s found herself back in . Plus those around her are very interesting characters although my favourite has to be Bob but my lips are sealed.
Bottom line is Integrity is smart, incredibly loyal and very resourceful, what more could I ask for in a heroine ?
I had a love hate relationship with Integrity as I liked her sense of humour which is relentless, adored her loyalty to her friends but boy did I question her morals. She spends a lot of time lusting for one character then can’t wait to rip the clothes off his friend ! However I must quickly state that it’s not a sexy scene as the author keeps a fast pace which works beautifully.
There’s a lot left to the readers imagination as there’s so much still to learn about Integrity’s parents and exactly what happened all those years ago . I truly enjoyed her progression in this story as she’s really starting to get wise to the cruel and dangerous world she’s found herself back in . Plus those around her are very interesting characters although my favourite has to be Bob but my lips are sealed.
Bottom line is Integrity is smart, incredibly loyal and very resourceful, what more could I ask for in a heroine ?
September 28, 2018
This was such a terrific book. I was first introduced to this author when I read her lazy witch series which I absolutely loved. When I found myself in the mood for something funny with a kickass heroine I knew where to turn and it did not disappoint.
I've got book two and I can't wait to start.
I've got book two and I can't wait to start.
![Profile Image for Lala_Loopsie [fire breathing B!tch Queen].](https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/users/1477498129i/41378358._UX200_CR0,77,200,200_.jpg)
July 19, 2017
Scotland, thieves, Sihde and magic. There was never a better mix.
i'm gonna admit, it was hard to keep up with the Scottish accent at all times in my head, but it was well worth it.
Helen Harper brings yet again a world where our 21st century technology is mixed with the magic of the Sihde.
It's another story with magic, sexy men and fabulous ladies, guaranteed to draw you in.
i'm gonna admit, it was hard to keep up with the Scottish accent at all times in my head, but it was well worth it.
Helen Harper brings yet again a world where our 21st century technology is mixed with the magic of the Sihde.
It's another story with magic, sexy men and fabulous ladies, guaranteed to draw you in.
February 24, 2017
TJ's Blog: https://tjtimetraveltips.wordpress.co...
I thought the book was a helluvaride! I had fun and was entertained from beginning to end. Gifted Thief had many of the elements that I look for in a good novel: interesting story line, intriguing characters, who experience character development throughout the course of the story, humor, romance, some unexpected twists... I think Gifted Thief would make a great movie!
The Characters
I love Integrity! She's clever, funny, gutsy, athletic, loyal to her friends and can stand up to her enemies. Byron is interesting too, in his own right. He has a sincerity, which is not apparent at first glance. Byron is more than he seems, or at least more than he realizes. I like the dynamic between Integrity and Byron -- each can hold his/her own, and I love Integrity's "take-no-shit" attitude in relation to Byron (and everyone). Integrity keeps up her self-sufficient, joke-telling, snarky attitude even as the stakes get higher and the danger becomes more evident. Integrity's friends are fun too. Each has his/her own unique personality, but together they make a great team!
Mythical creatures? Ya, this story's got 'em. Let's see there are: sidhe, pixies, mermen, genies, trolls, unicorns, etc. So, it seems to be a free-for-all on mythical creatures -- but this doesn't disturb the flow of the story. Except for the sidhe and the genie, the mythical character identities don't seem to be essential to the storyline (yet), but they don't harm it either (and I even find them amusing). Since we are introduced to a rather wide variety of mythical creatures right from the start and since they are presented in a matter-of-fact way, it seems quite natural to have these different creatures around. It feels more like different ethnic groups or different cultures.
Where do we go from here?
Many questions were left unanswered, however. Was Integrity's father the bad guy everyone has made him out to be? I suspect not. What happened to Integrity's mother? Was foul play involved in her death? Who really killed all those people, including all of Integrity's family, and who is trying to wipe the Adair family from history? Is Aifric really behind all those crimes and their cover-up? Is Aifric really trying to kill Integrity? I will definitely be grabbing for the sequel when it comes out later this month.
Crapadoodledo! Gifted Thief was a shite-load of fun!
I received a copy of this book from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
BUDDY READ:Paranormal/Fantasy > Gifted Thief (Highland Magic #1) by Helen Harper - Starting February 16th, 2016
https://www.goodreads.com/topic/show/...
I thought the book was a helluvaride! I had fun and was entertained from beginning to end. Gifted Thief had many of the elements that I look for in a good novel: interesting story line, intriguing characters, who experience character development throughout the course of the story, humor, romance, some unexpected twists... I think Gifted Thief would make a great movie!
The Characters
I love Integrity! She's clever, funny, gutsy, athletic, loyal to her friends and can stand up to her enemies. Byron is interesting too, in his own right. He has a sincerity, which is not apparent at first glance. Byron is more than he seems, or at least more than he realizes. I like the dynamic between Integrity and Byron -- each can hold his/her own, and I love Integrity's "take-no-shit" attitude in relation to Byron (and everyone). Integrity keeps up her self-sufficient, joke-telling, snarky attitude even as the stakes get higher and the danger becomes more evident. Integrity's friends are fun too. Each has his/her own unique personality, but together they make a great team!
Mythical creatures? Ya, this story's got 'em. Let's see there are: sidhe, pixies, mermen, genies, trolls, unicorns, etc. So, it seems to be a free-for-all on mythical creatures -- but this doesn't disturb the flow of the story. Except for the sidhe and the genie, the mythical character identities don't seem to be essential to the storyline (yet), but they don't harm it either (and I even find them amusing). Since we are introduced to a rather wide variety of mythical creatures right from the start and since they are presented in a matter-of-fact way, it seems quite natural to have these different creatures around. It feels more like different ethnic groups or different cultures.
Where do we go from here?
Many questions were left unanswered, however. Was Integrity's father the bad guy everyone has made him out to be? I suspect not. What happened to Integrity's mother? Was foul play involved in her death? Who really killed all those people, including all of Integrity's family, and who is trying to wipe the Adair family from history? Is Aifric really behind all those crimes and their cover-up? Is Aifric really trying to kill Integrity? I will definitely be grabbing for the sequel when it comes out later this month.
Crapadoodledo! Gifted Thief was a shite-load of fun!
I received a copy of this book from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
BUDDY READ:Paranormal/Fantasy > Gifted Thief (Highland Magic #1) by Helen Harper - Starting February 16th, 2016
https://www.goodreads.com/topic/show/...
July 6, 2016
The eARC for Gifted Thief by Helen Harper was kindly provided to me via Netgalley.
DNF Sadly I found the story biting & the h annoying
DNF Sadly I found the story biting & the h annoying
February 10, 2016
You can see this and other reviews on my blog: Book Nerd Paradise
Not too long ago, I stumbled upon Helen Harper's Blood Destiny series and absolutely fell in love with it. I became a fan of Ms. Harper from that moment on. Needless to say, I jumped at the chance to get a copy of Gifted Thief and I was not disappointed.
Gifted Thief is the story of Integrity, an outcast is the harsh world of the Sidhe. The story starts off with her 11-year-old self running away from her miserable life as a servant. Soon, she meets Taylor, who becomes a parent figure, and over the next few years she finds a family of misfits and thieves to call her own.
I really loved Integrity because she's independent, smart, sassy and will do anything within her power to keep her family together. She was always an outcast with her own people, but I love the fact that she still managed to find a family of her own. She doesn't take an shit, but she's willing to step up to her responsibilities as the last surviving member of the Adair clan. And she does it with mouthy sarcasm the entire way. My kind of girl. *swoons*
Our other main character, Byron, is very interesting. He seems to be one of the few Sidhe who actually cares what happens to Integrity, for no other reason than he's just a good person, errr, fae. There's definitely a connection between the two, and I think it will develop into more later on, but in Gifted Thief the story does not revolve around the romance (thank the stars). The story focuses on Integrity and her growth as a member of Sidhe society.
There's only one thing I thought could be improved. I would like to have seen more explanation to the world Integrity lived in. I was very confused as to the divide between Scotland and the rest of the world, or at least I think that's how it worked. I'm not really sure. All I know is that it's there and it's almost impenetrable.
**Recommended for older teens and up as there are a few raunchy bits.
** I was provided a copy of this book through Netgalley in return for an honest review
Not too long ago, I stumbled upon Helen Harper's Blood Destiny series and absolutely fell in love with it. I became a fan of Ms. Harper from that moment on. Needless to say, I jumped at the chance to get a copy of Gifted Thief and I was not disappointed.
Gifted Thief is the story of Integrity, an outcast is the harsh world of the Sidhe. The story starts off with her 11-year-old self running away from her miserable life as a servant. Soon, she meets Taylor, who becomes a parent figure, and over the next few years she finds a family of misfits and thieves to call her own.
I really loved Integrity because she's independent, smart, sassy and will do anything within her power to keep her family together. She was always an outcast with her own people, but I love the fact that she still managed to find a family of her own. She doesn't take an shit, but she's willing to step up to her responsibilities as the last surviving member of the Adair clan. And she does it with mouthy sarcasm the entire way. My kind of girl. *swoons*
Our other main character, Byron, is very interesting. He seems to be one of the few Sidhe who actually cares what happens to Integrity, for no other reason than he's just a good person, errr, fae. There's definitely a connection between the two, and I think it will develop into more later on, but in Gifted Thief the story does not revolve around the romance (thank the stars). The story focuses on Integrity and her growth as a member of Sidhe society.
There's only one thing I thought could be improved. I would like to have seen more explanation to the world Integrity lived in. I was very confused as to the divide between Scotland and the rest of the world, or at least I think that's how it worked. I'm not really sure. All I know is that it's there and it's almost impenetrable.
**Recommended for older teens and up as there are a few raunchy bits.
** I was provided a copy of this book through Netgalley in return for an honest review
February 1, 2018
2.5 rounded up. I was interested, but literally right when I was wondering if I'd ever really warm up to the heroine, she sleeps with this guy she just met who is also the hero's friend. Yeah, they'd just survived a life and death situation and the sex was a stress response, but when the hero walked in on them it was a bit much for me. AWKWARD! She's so casual about it too and then she later asks the hero why HE sleeps around (she assumed this based on rumors). He got angry, but then shrugged it off. It was just weird, I don't know any other way to explain it.
The hero and the heroine don't get together in this book, but we're obviously being set up for it, so I honestly don't get the point of that scene. This isn't a menage story as far as I know.
Anyway, I'm conflicted on continuing. This was part of the romance package at Audible, so that scene just didn't fit for me.
The heroine is.... I dunno. I don't hate her, but I'm not really digging her either. I think her quirks are supposed to be endearing, but they just seem off. The stupid jokes are just stupid. Also, the way she knew what to do with the magical object in the end made zero sense.
Not sure if I'll continue the series. It has potential, but not sure I want to risk it if the H or h will possibly be sleeping with others. I am not a fan of love triangles or casual/random sex.
The hero and the heroine don't get together in this book, but we're obviously being set up for it, so I honestly don't get the point of that scene. This isn't a menage story as far as I know.
Anyway, I'm conflicted on continuing. This was part of the romance package at Audible, so that scene just didn't fit for me.
The heroine is.... I dunno. I don't hate her, but I'm not really digging her either. I think her quirks are supposed to be endearing, but they just seem off. The stupid jokes are just stupid. Also, the way she knew what to do with the magical object in the end made zero sense.
Not sure if I'll continue the series. It has potential, but not sure I want to risk it if the H or h will possibly be sleeping with others. I am not a fan of love triangles or casual/random sex.
January 21, 2016
I received a copy of this book from NetGalley. Silver hair, purple eyes, Integrity is a Sidhe. At least she was born one. With no knowledge of what happened to her parents, only hearing ugly rumors, Integrity ran away from that life when she was eleven. Taken in by Taylor, she lives the life of a thief. Now that she's all grown up, she is summoned by the Sidhe. She has no intention of going back, and they must know it because her friends end up in jail, or with a hit on them. The only way to save her true family is to go back to the life she left behind. Magic is failing, and they must have the heir of Clan Adair to help them. But, will she survive long enough to help? I thought it started kind of slow, but I'm really glad I kept going. I really warmed to Integrity and her band of misfits, and I can't wait to read the next one!!
May 22, 2016
Is playing around a desirable characteristic in male protagonist nowadays?
I've encountered more and more books (especially for teenagers and young adults) featuring plain, upright, and usually boring female leads who somehow are able to capture the hearts of rich, popular womanizers. It's unrealistic that playboys just suddenly stop being... playboys and settle down when they find 'the right girl'.
In my opinion, a hero doesn't need to be a playboy to be considered hot. Example? Jericho Barrons. 'Alpha', arrogant, possessive, and sexy as hell. Playboy indicates lack of control and discipline. The name already gives away what this type of hero really means: playBOY, not MAN yet.
Although not impossible, it's not easy to make this character type feel real and likable. In the case of this book, the hero just feels flat and full of clichés.
I've encountered more and more books (especially for teenagers and young adults) featuring plain, upright, and usually boring female leads who somehow are able to capture the hearts of rich, popular womanizers. It's unrealistic that playboys just suddenly stop being... playboys and settle down when they find 'the right girl'.
In my opinion, a hero doesn't need to be a playboy to be considered hot. Example? Jericho Barrons. 'Alpha', arrogant, possessive, and sexy as hell. Playboy indicates lack of control and discipline. The name already gives away what this type of hero really means: playBOY, not MAN yet.
Although not impossible, it's not easy to make this character type feel real and likable. In the case of this book, the hero just feels flat and full of clichés.
February 22, 2016
I liked the concept of this story, but I felt like I was thrown into this world head first. It started off strong, but I was wanting more details on this world created. There were a lot of missing pieces, and details that seemed relevant were barely skimmed over. I wanted more depth. A better understanding of this environment and the characters. Speaking of the characters, they all had an incredibly juvenile feel to them. Overall, it did have potential, but the story execution fell flat for me personally. I wasn’t a fan of the ending either, it lacked any sense of real closure. This wont be a series I personally continue. I am glad it was offered as a kindleunlimited though.
April 28, 2016
I would give this book 3.5 stars. I don't know why Goodreads won't let you add the half stars. I liked Integrity, but I did not fall in love with her like I did Mack (Bloodfire series). It's an interesting start to this series. Integrity ran away from the Sidhe when she was a girl and created her family (a band of thieves) after a chance encounter as she ran away.
She re-enters the Sidhe world after her father-figure, Taylor, gets in trouble with his bookie who sold his debt. She meets a Sidhe named Byron. He's delicious as Helen Harper's main male protagonists are. I will finish this review when I get a chance.
There was also no slut shaming in this book. When Integrity slept with Jamie after they were almost killed, it was a purely sexual act to release tension and celebrate life. She was not in a relationship with anyone, nor was he. They were 2 consenting adults. Byron did not like it, but did not demean Integrity when he walked in on them and afterwards when he had talked to Jamie. My toes literally curled when he asked Integrity, "Did he make you scream? I can make you scream." I still get tingles when I read that line (TMI ik!).
Byron's father, Aifric, is the villian but does not get his comeuppance. Integrity wonders if Byron knows. I want to see when Aifric is punished. Integrity and her family figure it out towards the end. The treachery makes the book very interesting. What would you expect from the Sidhe??
It's definitely worth reading. Did it knock my socks off? Nope. Will I continue with the second book? Yes. Is Helen Harper a "Gifted Author"? YES!
Happy reading!
She re-enters the Sidhe world after her father-figure, Taylor, gets in trouble with his bookie who sold his debt. She meets a Sidhe named Byron. He's delicious as Helen Harper's main male protagonists are. I will finish this review when I get a chance.
There was also no slut shaming in this book. When Integrity slept with Jamie after they were almost killed, it was a purely sexual act to release tension and celebrate life. She was not in a relationship with anyone, nor was he. They were 2 consenting adults. Byron did not like it, but did not demean Integrity when he walked in on them and afterwards when he had talked to Jamie. My toes literally curled when he asked Integrity, "Did he make you scream? I can make you scream." I still get tingles when I read that line (TMI ik!).
Byron's father, Aifric, is the villian but does not get his comeuppance. Integrity wonders if Byron knows. I want to see when Aifric is punished. Integrity and her family figure it out towards the end. The treachery makes the book very interesting. What would you expect from the Sidhe??
It's definitely worth reading. Did it knock my socks off? Nope. Will I continue with the second book? Yes. Is Helen Harper a "Gifted Author"? YES!
Happy reading!
June 15, 2017
I enjoyed this book a lot, while being a typical novel length 90,000 words it just is very quickly paced. Loved the main character Integrity, nice name choice as the character picked it for her own and the first chapter has her breaking into a bank. Integrity is loyal, smart and funny, she tells horrible jokes and is a science fiction fan girl, she's also a master thief.
I listened to the audiobook and Saskia Maarleveld did a wonderful job as the narrator the characters all sounded distinct and had a marvelous accent.
I'm starting on book 2 as soon as I finish this review.
I listened to the audiobook and Saskia Maarleveld did a wonderful job as the narrator the characters all sounded distinct and had a marvelous accent.
I'm starting on book 2 as soon as I finish this review.
March 13, 2022
This wasn't the best book I've ever read, but it is a fun start to a series. Although the MC basically raises herself on the streets, joining a group of professional theifs, at the age of 11; she is not the most mature person at times. She is however, smart. Dragged into a past she wants nothing to do with, she surprisingly well in a world she wasn't really raised in.
February 19, 2019
This being my third series by Helen Harper, not counting Corrigan's versions of the Blood Destiny series, I have to say she seems to be a very safe author for me in terms of disappointments.
I mean, there's no guarantee I'm gonna be wowed-more like there's a guarantee I'm not gonna be super wowed-but I know I won't regret reading any of them.
So this little thing is about a gifted young thief who escapes her cruel "guardians" and sidhe heritage at the tender age of eleven, hops a ride with a stranger and the rest, as they say, is history.
Until, dun dun dun, it isn't and the past makes a nasty appearance.
Now if you're familiar with the fantasy/paranormal genre, my tidbits coupled with the blurb, you pretty much know what happens next. Very textbook.
Unfortunately, there was not enough plot development in here for my liking but I do expect more in the coming books, which is always a plus.
I mean, there's no guarantee I'm gonna be wowed-more like there's a guarantee I'm not gonna be super wowed-but I know I won't regret reading any of them.
So this little thing is about a gifted young thief who escapes her cruel "guardians" and sidhe heritage at the tender age of eleven, hops a ride with a stranger and the rest, as they say, is history.
Until, dun dun dun, it isn't and the past makes a nasty appearance.
Now if you're familiar with the fantasy/paranormal genre, my tidbits coupled with the blurb, you pretty much know what happens next. Very textbook.
Unfortunately, there was not enough plot development in here for my liking but I do expect more in the coming books, which is always a plus.
July 15, 2020
Plot line and worlbuilding were not bad, but.... the book was full of really bad jokes that were not funny and just plain bad taste, the flirting was gross more often than not and the the relationship dynamics truly messed up.
You don’t push a girl you like hard against a wall to part her from another guy, even if that guy is being rude.
You don’t show off your telekinesis by lowering said girl zipper dress down when you are barely acquainted and then comment on the color of her underwear like that is remotely sexy behavior.
If she passes out in your arms, you don’t undress her and cuddle up to her while she is unconscious ( but hey you reassure her you have not had sex with her while she was out of it, because ‘you are not that sort of guy’! and I suppose we are supposed to be cheering he is not a rapist, but in my books that is still sexual harrassment, along with the underwear situation).
While all of that stuff occurred I was seriously weirded out this was being painted as normal or even remotely acceptable behavior.
It was very bizzarre, like none of the characters had an idea of what is a normal and healthy approach with the other sex.
Then there’s the hateful attitude the protagonist displays against her own race all through the book, which seems based on the misbehavior of two people she lived with as a kid- except that upon meeting them again she is very blasé about the whole thing, so it did not make sense for her to be so racist.
It was grating, especially as she bases her whole identity on the fact she sees herself as ‘having more integrity in her little finger than any of the Sidhe’ and tends to repeat it often.
We are never given a particular reason Sidhe are supposed to be so deceitful as a race except the bias of the protagonist and of the guy who raised her, supposedly.
It becomes a bit of a disturbing factor after awhile, because the main character displays a crass and disturbingly uncaring attitude toward Sidhe deaths - and that includes her own parents, up to a point- and makes a number of dumb choices meant to prove she is better than any of the Sidhe. All while we are reminded that she is a tough girl with good heart. Verbally at least. I did not find her to be a character of particular integrity or goodness and more than tough she shows herself as crass, rude, nasty and bad tempered.
She harps on and on on how her heist colleagues are her true family, and yet her relationship with them lacks much depth or intimacy. We are told she is a talented thief but somehow she missed completely the fact her whole life her unique coloring made very apparent to everyone who she was- she thought litterally she was living in hiding among humans and clanless but as she never thought to get a hair dye or contacts, and her coloring marked as her father’s daughter, it turns obviously everybody she ever met in hiding knew her real identity and the people she ran from knew where she was all time from day 1. I never recovered from the stupidity of this . Oh, it was funny too as the main character was blew away from the revelation, but how can a supposedly talented thief to miss that basic tip in going undercover?
I wanted to like this book because I am a sucker for Sidhe fiction and the urban fantasy setting was quite likeable but... the bad points outweighed the good by far and by the end I could not care the less about what happened to any of the characters, I just wanted to close the book.
You don’t push a girl you like hard against a wall to part her from another guy, even if that guy is being rude.
You don’t show off your telekinesis by lowering said girl zipper dress down when you are barely acquainted and then comment on the color of her underwear like that is remotely sexy behavior.
If she passes out in your arms, you don’t undress her and cuddle up to her while she is unconscious ( but hey you reassure her you have not had sex with her while she was out of it, because ‘you are not that sort of guy’! and I suppose we are supposed to be cheering he is not a rapist, but in my books that is still sexual harrassment, along with the underwear situation).
While all of that stuff occurred I was seriously weirded out this was being painted as normal or even remotely acceptable behavior.
It was very bizzarre, like none of the characters had an idea of what is a normal and healthy approach with the other sex.
Then there’s the hateful attitude the protagonist displays against her own race all through the book, which seems based on the misbehavior of two people she lived with as a kid- except that upon meeting them again she is very blasé about the whole thing, so it did not make sense for her to be so racist.
It was grating, especially as she bases her whole identity on the fact she sees herself as ‘having more integrity in her little finger than any of the Sidhe’ and tends to repeat it often.
We are never given a particular reason Sidhe are supposed to be so deceitful as a race except the bias of the protagonist and of the guy who raised her, supposedly.
It becomes a bit of a disturbing factor after awhile, because the main character displays a crass and disturbingly uncaring attitude toward Sidhe deaths - and that includes her own parents, up to a point- and makes a number of dumb choices meant to prove she is better than any of the Sidhe. All while we are reminded that she is a tough girl with good heart. Verbally at least. I did not find her to be a character of particular integrity or goodness and more than tough she shows herself as crass, rude, nasty and bad tempered.
She harps on and on on how her heist colleagues are her true family, and yet her relationship with them lacks much depth or intimacy. We are told she is a talented thief but somehow she missed completely the fact her whole life her unique coloring made very apparent to everyone who she was- she thought litterally she was living in hiding among humans and clanless but as she never thought to get a hair dye or contacts, and her coloring marked as her father’s daughter, it turns obviously everybody she ever met in hiding knew her real identity and the people she ran from knew where she was all time from day 1. I never recovered from the stupidity of this . Oh, it was funny too as the main character was blew away from the revelation, but how can a supposedly talented thief to miss that basic tip in going undercover?
I wanted to like this book because I am a sucker for Sidhe fiction and the urban fantasy setting was quite likeable but... the bad points outweighed the good by far and by the end I could not care the less about what happened to any of the characters, I just wanted to close the book.
January 25, 2016
Integrity despite being a thief managed to live up to her name. She would steal without batting an eye, but she had a moral code. She didn’t want to take anything that would have sentimental value. It was almost hard to believe she was a thief because she was too caring, but she was raised to do it. It was all she knew. Her life was all about taking risks, but the decisions she made weren’t dumb. She was mouthy and had an attitude sometimes, but she also knew when it was wise to shut up. Integrity does have the potential to become a special snowflake. Her magical abilities haven’t thoroughly been explored, but they definitely are unique.
Byron was the equivalent of a fae prince. He could be charming, sweet, and seductive. He also knew how to be manipulative. I got the vibe that he’s a good guy at heart. I really liked him although I didn’t agree with everything he did. There was strong chemistry with him and Integrity, so a romance may happen later on.
The side characters needed more work. Taylor was Integrity’s surrogate dad. Her 3 partners in crime Lexie, Speck, and Brochan were also like family to Integrity. It was explained why those people were important to her, but it wasn’t shown. For a group of thieves they were incredibly loyal to each other, which wasn’t realistic. Some of the fae side characters were more dynamic, but there hadn’t been time to determine their motives.
In this world the fae were divided into 4 clans. Something crazy happened, and Integrity was the only surviving member of hers. There were other fae who were clanless. They were considered insignificant. Humans were aware of the fae, but the interactions amongst the clans, the clanless, and humans wasn’t thoroughly explained. Some hints were given about what happened in Clan Adair and to Integrity’s parents. I can’t wait to read the next book to find out more!
I received an ARC from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
Byron was the equivalent of a fae prince. He could be charming, sweet, and seductive. He also knew how to be manipulative. I got the vibe that he’s a good guy at heart. I really liked him although I didn’t agree with everything he did. There was strong chemistry with him and Integrity, so a romance may happen later on.
The side characters needed more work. Taylor was Integrity’s surrogate dad. Her 3 partners in crime Lexie, Speck, and Brochan were also like family to Integrity. It was explained why those people were important to her, but it wasn’t shown. For a group of thieves they were incredibly loyal to each other, which wasn’t realistic. Some of the fae side characters were more dynamic, but there hadn’t been time to determine their motives.
In this world the fae were divided into 4 clans. Something crazy happened, and Integrity was the only surviving member of hers. There were other fae who were clanless. They were considered insignificant. Humans were aware of the fae, but the interactions amongst the clans, the clanless, and humans wasn’t thoroughly explained. Some hints were given about what happened in Clan Adair and to Integrity’s parents. I can’t wait to read the next book to find out more!
I received an ARC from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
February 2, 2016
Rating 4.5/5
What an intriguing mix of contemporary and fantasy this novel proved to be! Set in Scotland, the Sidhe are the ruling class, with varying magical Gifts, belonging to Clans and looking down on humans and the Clanless. When the orphaned child, Integrity, being brought up in the home of the Bull has had enough, runs away and is rescued by Taylor she turns her back on the Sidhe and becomes a very talented thief. She grows up in age and talent and is happy until the Sidhe appear in her life again and things will never be the same for her or those close to her as she starts to learn more about her birth family and clan.
This is an epic adventure story, with a delectable mix of daring, magic, mystery, intrigue, double dealing, deception and so much more! Well written, with a superb range of amazing characters, it is a riveting read that I thoroughly enjoyed and have no hesitation in highly recommending. There are plenty of surprising twists and turns in this story to keep you enthralled and amazed as the story progresses. Even thought the story works well as a standalone, I really want to read the sequel as soon as possible!
Thanks to the author, publisher and NetGalley, too, for letting me read an ARC of this book in exchange for this, an honest review.
What an intriguing mix of contemporary and fantasy this novel proved to be! Set in Scotland, the Sidhe are the ruling class, with varying magical Gifts, belonging to Clans and looking down on humans and the Clanless. When the orphaned child, Integrity, being brought up in the home of the Bull has had enough, runs away and is rescued by Taylor she turns her back on the Sidhe and becomes a very talented thief. She grows up in age and talent and is happy until the Sidhe appear in her life again and things will never be the same for her or those close to her as she starts to learn more about her birth family and clan.
This is an epic adventure story, with a delectable mix of daring, magic, mystery, intrigue, double dealing, deception and so much more! Well written, with a superb range of amazing characters, it is a riveting read that I thoroughly enjoyed and have no hesitation in highly recommending. There are plenty of surprising twists and turns in this story to keep you enthralled and amazed as the story progresses. Even thought the story works well as a standalone, I really want to read the sequel as soon as possible!
Thanks to the author, publisher and NetGalley, too, for letting me read an ARC of this book in exchange for this, an honest review.
June 6, 2017
I saw this book months ago, and it caught my eye immediately. Ever since I read Ancient Magic series, I have been wanting to read another urban fantasy. And when I saw this book, its beautiful cover and thiefy title, I immediately know that this book will be the next urban fantansy I will read. However, it isn't until now that I actually feel like reading another urban fantasy book. But let me just say that I am so glad that I finally decided to pick it up. This book was amazing. Definitely recommend.
August 28, 2016
3 STARS
This was only ever meant to be a 'gap' book - you know that book you read when you've just finished a book and you're not sure what to read next? It turned out to be short and sweet so I ended up finishing it just to see what happened. It was a fun affair and while I found myself warming to Integrity and her HORRIBLE sense of humour quickly, the simplicity of the plot and the fact that other characters and plots were not explored drew my rating down to 3 stars.
This was only ever meant to be a 'gap' book - you know that book you read when you've just finished a book and you're not sure what to read next? It turned out to be short and sweet so I ended up finishing it just to see what happened. It was a fun affair and while I found myself warming to Integrity and her HORRIBLE sense of humour quickly, the simplicity of the plot and the fact that other characters and plots were not explored drew my rating down to 3 stars.
September 10, 2020
This was a cute start to a new series, a fun fast read with a heroine I really liked. She's a bit of a kook, but she's loyal and compassionate, a great character.
I don't understand Byron though. He was acting like she owed him something - like she owed any of them something - and that was some bullshit, frankly. I don't think anyone can possibly not know how she was treated. She was an infant, in that court and not even given a name - just girl - treated like a servant, and it sounds like beaten on the regular. She ran away at age 11. And none of them gave a fuck. Then when she doesn't immediately agree to help these bags of shit, Byron tells her he'd "heard she was a bitch. All the chieftans don't agree on much, but they agree on that."
Okay fuckface. She was around them from infancy to age 11. I want you to tell me what she could have done in that time period for the chieftans to unanimously agree that she's a bitch, and have that be legitimate. Anyone but a complete and utter asshole would hear that and understand that it was the abusive fucking chieftans who were the problem. Not her.
So I personally think Byron needs a swift kick in the balls. Anyone with eyeballs would know how the Sidhe treated her. And then rather than come ask for her help like a fucking decent human being, he manipulates and blackmails her... perfectly underscoring that all Sidhe are assholes and if they lose their power the world would be a better place.
That's why this just gets a 3. I liked the heroine. I liked her friends. I thought the worldbuilding was good and interesting. But I don't like the potential love interest, and I don't like that she's helping them rather than telling them to go fuck themselves.
I don't understand Byron though. He was acting like she owed him something - like she owed any of them something - and that was some bullshit, frankly. I don't think anyone can possibly not know how she was treated. She was an infant, in that court and not even given a name - just girl - treated like a servant, and it sounds like beaten on the regular. She ran away at age 11. And none of them gave a fuck. Then when she doesn't immediately agree to help these bags of shit, Byron tells her he'd "heard she was a bitch. All the chieftans don't agree on much, but they agree on that."
Okay fuckface. She was around them from infancy to age 11. I want you to tell me what she could have done in that time period for the chieftans to unanimously agree that she's a bitch, and have that be legitimate. Anyone but a complete and utter asshole would hear that and understand that it was the abusive fucking chieftans who were the problem. Not her.
So I personally think Byron needs a swift kick in the balls. Anyone with eyeballs would know how the Sidhe treated her. And then rather than come ask for her help like a fucking decent human being, he manipulates and blackmails her... perfectly underscoring that all Sidhe are assholes and if they lose their power the world would be a better place.
That's why this just gets a 3. I liked the heroine. I liked her friends. I thought the worldbuilding was good and interesting. But I don't like the potential love interest, and I don't like that she's helping them rather than telling them to go fuck themselves.
July 17, 2016
The second half of this book saved it. I was on the verge of DNF-ing after about every chapter at the beginning. The writing wasn't great; it seemed like the author was incredibly inspired by Game of Thrones in the prologue. We have a "girl with no name" who is called a bastard and has long white hair. It is based in a castle with people in long old-fashioned gowns. Then suddenly Integrity runs away and she comes across a car. That threw me a bit. I also couldn't get my head around the fact that Integrity is 27 years old in this book, and I particularly could not believe that her thieving friends are around that age. I gave her 18 or 19 tops, but she says it's 16 years since she ran away from the Sidhe (when she was 11).
Anyway, things didn't pick up until Integrity returned to the Sidhe court, and we saw her complicated relationship with Byron develop. The thing with Jamie was interesting and refreshing and Integrity herself became more likeable. I'm still not mad about her friends; I kinda wish they would go away. Bob can be funny, but mostly he's annoying. So ultimately I enjoyed this book by the end, but I'm not super excited by it. Hopefully it will be even better in the next book.
Anyway, things didn't pick up until Integrity returned to the Sidhe court, and we saw her complicated relationship with Byron develop. The thing with Jamie was interesting and refreshing and Integrity herself became more likeable. I'm still not mad about her friends; I kinda wish they would go away. Bob can be funny, but mostly he's annoying. So ultimately I enjoyed this book by the end, but I'm not super excited by it. Hopefully it will be even better in the next book.
February 19, 2016
Solid Series Start
Genre Urban Fantasy
Age Adult
Sexual Situations Mild nothing graphic.
I had read Ms. Harper's Blood Destiny first three books and found her writing imaginative. With Gifted Thief she goes beyond solid world building to give me believable urban fantasy characters. In the world Harper has built is on of magical and non magical beings living side by side, in a halves vs halves not kinda of world. She is a Sidhe (Pronounced She) and the world is inhabits is one of Fae and Scottish clans that have been mashed together in a very believable fashion. She has done her best to avoid the Sidhe since she ran away at the age of eleven, now in her mid twenties she has been found. With her finding all hell breaks loose in her world.
I will definitely continue this series, but I really didn't care for the casual hook with between Integrity and one of the clans. I am the type of reader if the two eventual HEA have met, and locked lips then, no hanky panky with others. Now if they have met and hate each other for several books then sure hanky panky with others is okay.
I know I'm weird, but this is how my bookworm brain works.
Genre Urban Fantasy
Age Adult
Sexual Situations Mild nothing graphic.
I had read Ms. Harper's Blood Destiny first three books and found her writing imaginative. With Gifted Thief she goes beyond solid world building to give me believable urban fantasy characters. In the world Harper has built is on of magical and non magical beings living side by side, in a halves vs halves not kinda of world. She is a Sidhe (Pronounced She) and the world is inhabits is one of Fae and Scottish clans that have been mashed together in a very believable fashion. She has done her best to avoid the Sidhe since she ran away at the age of eleven, now in her mid twenties she has been found. With her finding all hell breaks loose in her world.
I will definitely continue this series, but I really didn't care for the casual hook with between Integrity and one of the clans. I am the type of reader if the two eventual HEA have met, and locked lips then, no hanky panky with others. Now if they have met and hate each other for several books then sure hanky panky with others is okay.
I know I'm weird, but this is how my bookworm brain works.
April 6, 2016
Enjoyable, somewhat nutty read. Main female MC, Integrity, was refreshing in her confidence and smarts but I couldn't quite connect with her pacifism (I prefer a good ole a** kicking UF heroine) and goofy humor. There were A LOT of attempts at humor but it wore on me by the end of the book. I think the story and side characters could have been fleshed out a bit more. Generic hatred that was felt by all the higher ranking sidhe towards Integrity was irritating as was the lack of backstory about her family. Her strong connections with her friends was endearing.
Felt very Harry Potter-ish in parts (important magical person who grew up being treated like dirt, thinking they weren't anything special only to find out they were indeed special). And overall I think there were too many unanswered questions by the end of the book. Has the potential of developing into a good series I just wish the first book was handled a bit differently.
Felt very Harry Potter-ish in parts (important magical person who grew up being treated like dirt, thinking they weren't anything special only to find out they were indeed special). And overall I think there were too many unanswered questions by the end of the book. Has the potential of developing into a good series I just wish the first book was handled a bit differently.
April 8, 2018
This was a pretty good read. Integrity was a good heroine for the most part, she was a little rough around the edges and a little mean and super untrusting of people, but that is to be expected from the way that she grew up. And she did trust her small group of friends and Taylor, who raised her. I liked the mystery surrounding what really happened to her family, I can't even guess what it can be and who was behind it.
October 25, 2018
3,5/5
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