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Cornish Tales #1
The Thief's Daughter
Hide from the thief-taker, for if he finds you, he will take you away …
Eighteenth-century Cornwall is crippled by debt and poverty, while the gibbet casts a shadow of fear over the land. Yet, when night falls, free traders swarm onto the beaches and smuggling prospers.
Terrified by a thief-taker’s warning as a child, Jenna has resolved to be good. When her brother, Silas, asks for her help to pay his creditors, Jenna feels unable to refuse and finds herself entering the dangerous world of the smuggling trade.
Jack Penhale hunts down the smuggling gangs in revenge for his father’s death. Drawn to Jenna at a hiring fayre, they discover their lives are entangled. But as Jenna struggles to decide where her allegiances lie, the worlds of justice and crime collide, leading to danger and heartache for all concerned …
Eighteenth-century Cornwall is crippled by debt and poverty, while the gibbet casts a shadow of fear over the land. Yet, when night falls, free traders swarm onto the beaches and smuggling prospers.
Terrified by a thief-taker’s warning as a child, Jenna has resolved to be good. When her brother, Silas, asks for her help to pay his creditors, Jenna feels unable to refuse and finds herself entering the dangerous world of the smuggling trade.
Jack Penhale hunts down the smuggling gangs in revenge for his father’s death. Drawn to Jenna at a hiring fayre, they discover their lives are entangled. But as Jenna struggles to decide where her allegiances lie, the worlds of justice and crime collide, leading to danger and heartache for all concerned …
310 pages, ebook
First published January 3, 2017
106 people are currently reading
178 people want to read
About the author
Victoria Cornwall
19 books50 followersVictoria Cornwall grew up on a farm in Cornwall and can trace her Cornish roots as far back as the 18th century. It is this background and heritage which is the inspiration for her Cornish based novels.
Following a fulfilling twenty-five year career as a nurse, a change in profession finally allowed her the time to write. She initially self-published two novels, Old Sins Long Shadows and The Gossamer Trail under the name B.D.Hawkey. In 2016, award winning publisher, Choc Lit, acquired both novels as part of a four book deal. Old Sins Long Shadows is now published under a new title, The Captain's Daughter, and The Gossamer Trail has been released under the new title The Daughter of River Valley.
Victoria is married and has two grown up children. She likes to read and write historical fiction with a strong background story, but at its heart is the unmistakable emotion, even pain, of loving someone.
She is a member of the Romantic Novelists’ Association.
Following a fulfilling twenty-five year career as a nurse, a change in profession finally allowed her the time to write. She initially self-published two novels, Old Sins Long Shadows and The Gossamer Trail under the name B.D.Hawkey. In 2016, award winning publisher, Choc Lit, acquired both novels as part of a four book deal. Old Sins Long Shadows is now published under a new title, The Captain's Daughter, and The Gossamer Trail has been released under the new title The Daughter of River Valley.
Victoria is married and has two grown up children. She likes to read and write historical fiction with a strong background story, but at its heart is the unmistakable emotion, even pain, of loving someone.
She is a member of the Romantic Novelists’ Association.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 54 reviews
August 7, 2018
The Thief’s Daughter by Victoria Cornwall is a 2017 Choc Lit publication.
Tax laws make smuggling a big temptation, becoming a very lucrative business in eighteenth century Cornwall.
As a result, thief takers step in, striking fear and hatred into the smuggling rings. When Jenna was a child, her entire family was torn asunder thanks to a thief taker, but Jenna is spared after she was issued a dire warning.
Despite her best efforts to do the right thing, Jenna marries poorly and is only saved from years of abuse by the hangman’s noose. When she steps up to insure her husband will indeed die at the gallows, it looks as though she is committing an act of mercy. As she runs from the angry crowd, Jack Penhale aids in her escape.
But, this will not be their last meeting. Jenna ends up working for Jack as his housekeeper. But, as it turns out, Jack is a thief taker. Not only that, he is the man responsible for putting Jenna’s brother, Silas, in debtor’s prison. To help Silas pay off his debts, Jenna will have to do the very thing she swore she never would… become a smuggler. Soon she finds herself torn between the man she is falling in love with and her loyalty to Silas, her ne’er do well brother.
What a fantastic historical drama! I’m always a sucker for a book set in Cornwall, so this one already had a slight advantage going in. However, I am very impressed by the obvious research the author must have done, because the scenery, the dress, dialogue, etc. is very authentic. Anyone who has seen me rip into historical romance novels because of their lack of authenticity will know this means a lot to me. That’s really all I ask, just be true to the setting and the historical era. I don’t mind liberties being taken with the plot because it is fiction, after all. But, in this case, the author has created a compelling story that is not only authentic, but realistic as well.
I really liked Jack, who was kind and upright, but was also smart and worldly. He too suffered much in his life and his quest was very noble. Jenna was, despite her hardships, still a little gullible, willing to believe the best in the undeserving, while questioning those who wanted to protect her and keep her from undue heartache, while standing by their own convictions.
The story was very absorbing, very tense at times, as danger looms. The love story was a slow burn for a while, but reached great passion, was filled with angst and fraught with moral dilemmas on both sides. I thought the story had much depth and was often difficult to put aside. I enjoyed the conclusion and was happy to see Jenna finally obtain a measure of peace and happiness.
This is my first book by this author, but not my last. I am eager to continue with this series.
Tax laws make smuggling a big temptation, becoming a very lucrative business in eighteenth century Cornwall.
As a result, thief takers step in, striking fear and hatred into the smuggling rings. When Jenna was a child, her entire family was torn asunder thanks to a thief taker, but Jenna is spared after she was issued a dire warning.
Despite her best efforts to do the right thing, Jenna marries poorly and is only saved from years of abuse by the hangman’s noose. When she steps up to insure her husband will indeed die at the gallows, it looks as though she is committing an act of mercy. As she runs from the angry crowd, Jack Penhale aids in her escape.
But, this will not be their last meeting. Jenna ends up working for Jack as his housekeeper. But, as it turns out, Jack is a thief taker. Not only that, he is the man responsible for putting Jenna’s brother, Silas, in debtor’s prison. To help Silas pay off his debts, Jenna will have to do the very thing she swore she never would… become a smuggler. Soon she finds herself torn between the man she is falling in love with and her loyalty to Silas, her ne’er do well brother.
What a fantastic historical drama! I’m always a sucker for a book set in Cornwall, so this one already had a slight advantage going in. However, I am very impressed by the obvious research the author must have done, because the scenery, the dress, dialogue, etc. is very authentic. Anyone who has seen me rip into historical romance novels because of their lack of authenticity will know this means a lot to me. That’s really all I ask, just be true to the setting and the historical era. I don’t mind liberties being taken with the plot because it is fiction, after all. But, in this case, the author has created a compelling story that is not only authentic, but realistic as well.
I really liked Jack, who was kind and upright, but was also smart and worldly. He too suffered much in his life and his quest was very noble. Jenna was, despite her hardships, still a little gullible, willing to believe the best in the undeserving, while questioning those who wanted to protect her and keep her from undue heartache, while standing by their own convictions.
The story was very absorbing, very tense at times, as danger looms. The love story was a slow burn for a while, but reached great passion, was filled with angst and fraught with moral dilemmas on both sides. I thought the story had much depth and was often difficult to put aside. I enjoyed the conclusion and was happy to see Jenna finally obtain a measure of peace and happiness.
This is my first book by this author, but not my last. I am eager to continue with this series.
August 11, 2017
But of course someone with the name (nom de plume?) of Victoria Cornwall is going to write about smugglers, ne'er do wells and romance. Works for me as I am delighted to follow down the path I first discovered with Jane Aiken Hodge, Victoria Holt and Daphne Du Maurier.
This is a much darker story than the historical romances I grew up on. From the opening scenes when a young woman, disguised as a man jumps on her husband’s hanging body to make sure he is really most sincerely dead (this was not a happy marriage) to the beating death of an informer, this is an exciting and many layered book. The later years of the eighteen hundreds, one of the darker periods of English history-losing the war in the Americas, the people being taxed beyond reason to pay for this war, and smuggling moving beyond a few locals in a murderous and torturous business.
Jenna Cartwright the daughter of thieves tries to live a good and honest life. It's not working out too well for her as she married a smuggler /poacher who was later hanged; plus her thieving brother Silas who really has tried to take care of Jenna all her life is in debtors prison and needs her help to get out.
Through a series of unfortunate events Jenna ends up as the housekeeper to Jack Penhale, a thief-taker. Thief-takers have been the men who have decimated Jenna's family over the years and she has carried a terror of them since she was four. Penhale is working undercover to expose the head of the vicious smuggling ring that has terrorized parts of Cornwall for years.
For the most part this book was well-written although the there were conversations I thought were stilted. Cornwall's descriptions of Cornwall, the history, and the living conditions sounded spot on.
The romance was not as chaste as Hodge et al, but I wouldn't classify this as a bodice-ripper either.
Jenna finds herself constantly betrayed and forced into situations she has tried to avoid all her life.
She and Penhale try for a connection but the lack of trust and the betrayals and lies make this almost impossible.
I greatly enjoyed The Thief’s Daughter and look forward to Cornwall's next book.
This is a much darker story than the historical romances I grew up on. From the opening scenes when a young woman, disguised as a man jumps on her husband’s hanging body to make sure he is really most sincerely dead (this was not a happy marriage) to the beating death of an informer, this is an exciting and many layered book. The later years of the eighteen hundreds, one of the darker periods of English history-losing the war in the Americas, the people being taxed beyond reason to pay for this war, and smuggling moving beyond a few locals in a murderous and torturous business.
Jenna Cartwright the daughter of thieves tries to live a good and honest life. It's not working out too well for her as she married a smuggler /poacher who was later hanged; plus her thieving brother Silas who really has tried to take care of Jenna all her life is in debtors prison and needs her help to get out.
Through a series of unfortunate events Jenna ends up as the housekeeper to Jack Penhale, a thief-taker. Thief-takers have been the men who have decimated Jenna's family over the years and she has carried a terror of them since she was four. Penhale is working undercover to expose the head of the vicious smuggling ring that has terrorized parts of Cornwall for years.
For the most part this book was well-written although the there were conversations I thought were stilted. Cornwall's descriptions of Cornwall, the history, and the living conditions sounded spot on.
The romance was not as chaste as Hodge et al, but I wouldn't classify this as a bodice-ripper either.
Jenna finds herself constantly betrayed and forced into situations she has tried to avoid all her life.
She and Penhale try for a connection but the lack of trust and the betrayals and lies make this almost impossible.
I greatly enjoyed The Thief’s Daughter and look forward to Cornwall's next book.
October 11, 2017
I accidentally read these books from Victoria Cornwall back to front as this is the first in the Cornwall books with a past reviewed book The Captain's Daughter being book 2. Luckily it doesn't matter too much as the stories are quite self contained.
This is another well written historical romantic drama that it's easy to get lost in. The descriptions of Cornwall are beautiful and really conjure up a time past. I loved the romance and the overall story. It's a great debut and having also enjoyed the second book too this is an author I'm keen to read more of.
Thank you to Netgalley and Choc Lit for the free arc
This is another well written historical romantic drama that it's easy to get lost in. The descriptions of Cornwall are beautiful and really conjure up a time past. I loved the romance and the overall story. It's a great debut and having also enjoyed the second book too this is an author I'm keen to read more of.
Thank you to Netgalley and Choc Lit for the free arc
August 15, 2017
This novel is set in Cornwall, England during the 18th Century. Jenna Cartwright belongs to a well known family of thieves, but she has morals and does not want to stoop to that kind of lifestyle. In order to disengage herself from her surname, she marries Henry Kestle. Unfortunately, she has to endure an abusive marriage until Henry, also a thief, is caught poaching and sentenced by Judge Buller to hang.
Jenna eventually becomes the housekeeper for Jack Penhale. Penhale is a thief taker, a man who is employed to find and arrest thieves. He is working incognito, trying to uncover who is at the head of the smuggling ring.
The relationship develops between Jenna and Jack. However, events unfold whereby neither believe that they can trust each other. Jack travels to Europe in a bid to find further evidence about the smuggling ring. Both are in danger, do they survive, are the smugglers captured?
A very enjoyable read with twists, turns and excellent characters. The author describes very well about smuggling in 18th century Cornwall. A great debut novel. I will be keeping an eye out for future novels by this author.
Many thanks to Netgalley, Choc-lit and the author, for providing me with a free eBook copy in return for my honest opinion.
Jenna eventually becomes the housekeeper for Jack Penhale. Penhale is a thief taker, a man who is employed to find and arrest thieves. He is working incognito, trying to uncover who is at the head of the smuggling ring.
The relationship develops between Jenna and Jack. However, events unfold whereby neither believe that they can trust each other. Jack travels to Europe in a bid to find further evidence about the smuggling ring. Both are in danger, do they survive, are the smugglers captured?
A very enjoyable read with twists, turns and excellent characters. The author describes very well about smuggling in 18th century Cornwall. A great debut novel. I will be keeping an eye out for future novels by this author.
Many thanks to Netgalley, Choc-lit and the author, for providing me with a free eBook copy in return for my honest opinion.
January 14, 2017
Thank you to Netgalley, Choclit and Bictoria Corneell for the opportunity to read this book for an honest review.
You will find my review on both Goodreads and Amazon from today. On Goodreads under Karen Whittard and on Amazon under K.e.whittard.
This book was a little heavy for me and I found it hard to read. I had to keep putting it down as I found it a real struggle. It is quite a dark book. There is a little ray of sunshine that runs through it thou and that's what kept me reading.
It is set in the picturesque Cornwall. It tells the harrowing and dark lives of Jenna and Jack. Who have both had turbulent upbringings, events that have rocked and shaped their lives and not always for the best. Lots of sad dark situations they find themselves in. But they will do anything to keep each other safe. You can help loving them and wanting to reach through the pages to give them a big hug.
A bit too dark and heavy for me. But I pursued an read it all. I hope you enjoy it.
Happy reading everyone
You will find my review on both Goodreads and Amazon from today. On Goodreads under Karen Whittard and on Amazon under K.e.whittard.
This book was a little heavy for me and I found it hard to read. I had to keep putting it down as I found it a real struggle. It is quite a dark book. There is a little ray of sunshine that runs through it thou and that's what kept me reading.
It is set in the picturesque Cornwall. It tells the harrowing and dark lives of Jenna and Jack. Who have both had turbulent upbringings, events that have rocked and shaped their lives and not always for the best. Lots of sad dark situations they find themselves in. But they will do anything to keep each other safe. You can help loving them and wanting to reach through the pages to give them a big hug.
A bit too dark and heavy for me. But I pursued an read it all. I hope you enjoy it.
Happy reading everyone
March 3, 2017
As a lover of the Poldark series, Victoria Cornwall’s The Thief’s Daughter caught my attention, as it’s also set in 18th century Cornwall. I looked forward to reading of tricorn hats, horse rides and stunning coastal scenery – and I wasn’t disappointed. From the first off I was rooting for Cornwall’s heroine, Jenna Cartwright, a gutsy young woman born into a family of dubious repute. With little options left open, Jenna marries young but is then widowed when her husband falls prey to the hangman’s noose. With no one to support her, Jenna’s forced to make her own way in the world and it is then that she encounters the enigmatic, Jack Penhale. As well as fantastic characters, The Thief’s Daughter also has an absorbing plotline, with plenty twists and turns to keep the reader satisfied. We learn that Jack was involved in ensuring Jenna’s brother, Silas, was imprisoned, but things are never as simple as they seem. With smuggling, stolen property and a dangerous trip to France, this is a historical romance stuffed with page turning tension. A cracking debut from Cornwall, which leaves the reader hoping for more of the same, very soon.
September 9, 2018
Smuggling on the Cornwall Coast
Set in Cornwall in Georgian England, beginning in 1779 (with a prologue set in 1765), this is the story of Jenna Cartwright Kestle, the virtuous daughter of thieving parents and a sister to brothers who were always in trouble with the authorities.
When Jenna is only four, the thief-takers carry off her older brothers and her parents, leaving only Silas, her last brother. She lives in fear of thief-takers ever after.
As the story begins, Silas is in debtor’s prison and asks for Jenna’s help to pay his creditors. He lies to her about his wife and children being in prison with him to gain her sympathy. Silas is an altogether bad actor but Jenna doesn’t yet realize it so she decides to get a job to pay her brother’s debts.
Jack Penhale, a thief-taker, hunts down the smuggling gangs thriving on Cornwall’s coast. The author vividly portrays the mood of the time as to the smugglers and men in prison for debt. Jack is particularly interested in the smuggling gang led by Ames and Job Blake because they took his father’s life.
When Jenna comes to the job market, he hires her for his housekeeper to tend the Captain’s Cabin he’s rented for its proximity to the coast. Jack is a noble character who only means good to Jenna. She is a bit clueless when it comes to her brother, allowing Silas to lure her into a smuggling scheme.
The author developed well the characters and their conflicting emotions. Though life for them was hard and bad things happened, the ending is sweetly romantic.
Set in Cornwall in Georgian England, beginning in 1779 (with a prologue set in 1765), this is the story of Jenna Cartwright Kestle, the virtuous daughter of thieving parents and a sister to brothers who were always in trouble with the authorities.
When Jenna is only four, the thief-takers carry off her older brothers and her parents, leaving only Silas, her last brother. She lives in fear of thief-takers ever after.
As the story begins, Silas is in debtor’s prison and asks for Jenna’s help to pay his creditors. He lies to her about his wife and children being in prison with him to gain her sympathy. Silas is an altogether bad actor but Jenna doesn’t yet realize it so she decides to get a job to pay her brother’s debts.
Jack Penhale, a thief-taker, hunts down the smuggling gangs thriving on Cornwall’s coast. The author vividly portrays the mood of the time as to the smugglers and men in prison for debt. Jack is particularly interested in the smuggling gang led by Ames and Job Blake because they took his father’s life.
When Jenna comes to the job market, he hires her for his housekeeper to tend the Captain’s Cabin he’s rented for its proximity to the coast. Jack is a noble character who only means good to Jenna. She is a bit clueless when it comes to her brother, allowing Silas to lure her into a smuggling scheme.
The author developed well the characters and their conflicting emotions. Though life for them was hard and bad things happened, the ending is sweetly romantic.
January 4, 2017
Hide from the thief-taker, for if he finds you, he will take you away…
Jenna always felt like the odd one out growing up in a family of thieves. Her father wanted her to learn how to pick pockets, just like her brothers, but Jenna always refused. Living in a family that has no respect for the law had its price and Jenna ended up alone with only her brother Silas to look out for her. She learned early on that her last name prevented her from getting a job. Because of this she married an abusive man at a too young age. When her husband is sentenced to death, by hanging, Jenna makes sure she is finally free of this horrible man.
Jack swore revenge when he watched his father die in his arms. He's in Cornwall now to try and bring down a smuggling gang. Jack is looking from the sidelines when Jenna's husband is being hanged. He thinks that a courageous boy helps the criminal to die faster, but when he assists him in his escape, Jack finds out that this boy is instead a beautiful woman. He can't forget Jenna's eyes and her sweet smile. Jack spots her again at a hiring fayre and eventually employs her himself. Will they be able to be truthful towards each other or will Jenna's family name mess things up for her again?
Jenna has survived so much already in her young life. She is no stranger to being broke and being hungry. She is incredibly loyal towards her brother Silas. Silas asks her to help him pay off his creditors, so he can leave prison. Jenna has never disobeyed the law, but she'll do anything to get her brother out of this rotten place. Jenna is courageous but naïve as well. She tries to see the good in people and this often comes back to haunt her. She is also really strong, honest and has a sharp tongue. I liked Jenna a lot and was hoping for her to find love and happiness as she definitely deserves this.
Jack had to learn how to be an adult at an early age. He's done well for himself, but he hasn't forgotten how it feels to be hungry all the time. He wants to find justice for the murder of his father. The murderers are untouchable, because nobody is brave enough to testify against them. This means he has to find another way to take these men down. Jack has trusting issues, he doesn't let people in easily. When he meets and hires Jenna he knows he won't be able to resist her, but that doesn't mean he trusts her. Jack is an honorable man with respect for other people. He is kind and shares his food with people who need it.
The Thief's Daughter is an amazing story about two people who have lost much, but are willing to do anything to keep others safe, even when these people don't deserve this kind of protection. I loved to read about Jenna and Jack's journey together, it made them stronger and able to open up to each other. They have great chemistry and it was heartwarming to see how they slowly grow closer together. Victoria Cornwall was born and raised in Cornwall and she perfectly describes this stunning place and the surroundings she writes about. I have been to Cornwall myself and while reading her book I thought about my time there with great fondness. I'll be watching Victoria Cornwall and can't wait to read more of her stories.
Jenna always felt like the odd one out growing up in a family of thieves. Her father wanted her to learn how to pick pockets, just like her brothers, but Jenna always refused. Living in a family that has no respect for the law had its price and Jenna ended up alone with only her brother Silas to look out for her. She learned early on that her last name prevented her from getting a job. Because of this she married an abusive man at a too young age. When her husband is sentenced to death, by hanging, Jenna makes sure she is finally free of this horrible man.
Jack swore revenge when he watched his father die in his arms. He's in Cornwall now to try and bring down a smuggling gang. Jack is looking from the sidelines when Jenna's husband is being hanged. He thinks that a courageous boy helps the criminal to die faster, but when he assists him in his escape, Jack finds out that this boy is instead a beautiful woman. He can't forget Jenna's eyes and her sweet smile. Jack spots her again at a hiring fayre and eventually employs her himself. Will they be able to be truthful towards each other or will Jenna's family name mess things up for her again?
Jenna has survived so much already in her young life. She is no stranger to being broke and being hungry. She is incredibly loyal towards her brother Silas. Silas asks her to help him pay off his creditors, so he can leave prison. Jenna has never disobeyed the law, but she'll do anything to get her brother out of this rotten place. Jenna is courageous but naïve as well. She tries to see the good in people and this often comes back to haunt her. She is also really strong, honest and has a sharp tongue. I liked Jenna a lot and was hoping for her to find love and happiness as she definitely deserves this.
Jack had to learn how to be an adult at an early age. He's done well for himself, but he hasn't forgotten how it feels to be hungry all the time. He wants to find justice for the murder of his father. The murderers are untouchable, because nobody is brave enough to testify against them. This means he has to find another way to take these men down. Jack has trusting issues, he doesn't let people in easily. When he meets and hires Jenna he knows he won't be able to resist her, but that doesn't mean he trusts her. Jack is an honorable man with respect for other people. He is kind and shares his food with people who need it.
The Thief's Daughter is an amazing story about two people who have lost much, but are willing to do anything to keep others safe, even when these people don't deserve this kind of protection. I loved to read about Jenna and Jack's journey together, it made them stronger and able to open up to each other. They have great chemistry and it was heartwarming to see how they slowly grow closer together. Victoria Cornwall was born and raised in Cornwall and she perfectly describes this stunning place and the surroundings she writes about. I have been to Cornwall myself and while reading her book I thought about my time there with great fondness. I'll be watching Victoria Cornwall and can't wait to read more of her stories.
January 18, 2017
A Rollicking Tale of the Rugged Cornish Coast.
A really good story of smuggling, smugglers, love and betrayal on the rugged coast of Cornwall.
This is Ms Cornwall's first book, I believe and a great start!
A native of the area she writes convincingly of life among the poverty stricken Cornish of two hundred years ago, and the temptations of smuggling. Well-drawn and likeable main characters, in Jenna, born into a family of thieves and cutpurses, and Jack, the farmer's son-turned-thief-taker, and a good cast of supporting characters, both good and bad, make this an absorbing read.
For this reader, it seemed like a return to the classic adventure romances of my youth, and that is certainly a good thing.
A good story and well told.
A really good story of smuggling, smugglers, love and betrayal on the rugged coast of Cornwall.
This is Ms Cornwall's first book, I believe and a great start!
A native of the area she writes convincingly of life among the poverty stricken Cornish of two hundred years ago, and the temptations of smuggling. Well-drawn and likeable main characters, in Jenna, born into a family of thieves and cutpurses, and Jack, the farmer's son-turned-thief-taker, and a good cast of supporting characters, both good and bad, make this an absorbing read.
For this reader, it seemed like a return to the classic adventure romances of my youth, and that is certainly a good thing.
A good story and well told.
January 30, 2017
We're travelling back to the eighteenth century in this book, a lawless time of smugglers and robbers. Victoria Cornwall introduces us to thief taker Jack Penhale and thief's daughter Jenna, who is on the wrong side of the law. Whilst essentially a romance, the historical aspects are well researched and add another dimension to the story. With Jenna's brother Silas making demands on her to join the smugglers, there is a dilemma. Who can she trust?
May 3, 2017
4.5/5.0
"The Thief's Daughter" is a good old-fashioned romance with a strong female character trying her best to be good.
Read full review in the 2017 May issue of InD'tale Magazine.
"The Thief's Daughter" is a good old-fashioned romance with a strong female character trying her best to be good.
Read full review in the 2017 May issue of InD'tale Magazine.
March 7, 2017
A great balance of historical fiction mingled with a romantic story.
September 27, 2021
Format read; Audiobook!
I love, love, love this book!!!
But, then Victoria Cornwall could write a dinner menu or a phone book and I would be hooked, she is one of my favourite authors she is quite literally in a league of her own.
The Thief’s Daughter is the first book in the Cornish Tales series, I’ve read all of them (unless some have passed me by that I have missed, if so point them out to me now) and I have loved each and everyone, but this is the first Audiobook copy of this series. Each book is a stand-alone, there is a connection between them, I won’t say what but you can read them in any order without trouble – I did start this series partway through, so I know you can pick up any and thoroughly enjoy it without stressing that you have missed out on anything.
Set during 1779, Cornwall daughter of a family of thief’s; Jenna Cartwright has never wanted to be a part of their way of life she has always thought you should work hard to get what you want from life and not just take what you can. When her parents are taken by the notorious thief-takers at the tender age of four she is left in the not quite capable hands of her brother Silas. With Silas as her only brother now on these shores as her others have either been caught, killed or otherwise unknown, Jenna may have been better off living anywhere else, Silas is no better than his parents and thinks every pocket and purse are free gain and thinks nothing about trying to lure his young innocent sister into the game too. This is one of the reasons she marries the first man who comes along to rid herself of that life and of that name, but her marriage to the Kestle isn’t what she expected.
I liked Jenna from the moment we meet her in the town square when her good-for-nothing husband is being hanged for poaching, instead of being the grieving widow, Jenna is there to make certain the hangman’s noose does the job properly – plus helping it along (use your imagination, our tiny Jenna hanging onto the feet of her husband on the gallows). She shows herself to be full of courage, she is kind, good and loyal to those who unfortunately don’t deserve her loyalty. She has so much to give, she is caring and patient and exceedingly put upon first by her parents then by her brother and finally by her husband. All our Jenna wants is to be able to live a quiet life with someone to love her.
Then she meets Jack!
Jack!!…Deep guttural sighh!!
Jack, Oh Jack – pass me the smelling salts I may swoon!!
My heart has been stolen by this rough, rugged, monosyllabic, grumbling, brooding, fragile and determined thief-taker. Oooh, I’ve come over all hot and bothered, he makes you want to go out and steal something just so he can come and find you to clap you in irons, our boy Jack can come and put me on the straight and narrow anytime 😉
Jack Penhale has been sent to Cornwall to hunt down a smuggling gang that has been rife in the little cove, he has a personal reason why he has spent his entire life hunting those who steal and swindle – there is a reason why he hates smugglers and thief’s as much as he does and why he throws himself into this way of life. When you learn Jack’s history, you instantly feel a strong thread attached to your heart, pulling you closer and closer to him until you are pressed face-first into that solid chest ….grrrr…I think my wayward thoughts came out on the page there – note to self; control yourself!!!
I have to pay special mention to the narrator; Emma Powell, what a wonderful narrator she is she brought every scene to life, she gave Jack and Jenna a voice and I was completely taken with her rolling Cornish. Some narrators can put the voices on a wee bit too strong and they can be a bit grating to listen to but Emma Powell has got the perfect mix of sweet and fierce Jenna and gravelly almost purring Jack, I particularly loved her dark-toned villains and smugglers which is where the Cornish is even stronger and it’s like I’ve been transported to the Cornish coast.
The story flows with incredible ease, the pacing is spot on and you will find that hours have flown by in what seemed like minutes. The characters are just part of what makes this a fantastic book the main one being the actual Cornish coast takes your breath away, it feels so real as though you are standing on the cliff with the breeze in your hair breathing in the salty air. Then you have the actual ‘people’ characters each one brings life to the story our leading couple are astounding together, I also love the vast secondary characters the good, the bad and the ugly all pack a punch.
Victoria Cornwall is the queen of historical romance/adventure, she dazzles with her eloquent and richly passionate writing, I love how she swirls romance and adventure around you like an ethereal mist casting off the sea.
Overall, a fabulous narration for a brilliant book, The Thief’s Daughter is an evocative, exciting and passionate adventure full of danger, family, drama love and lust.
I love, love, love this book!!!
But, then Victoria Cornwall could write a dinner menu or a phone book and I would be hooked, she is one of my favourite authors she is quite literally in a league of her own.
The Thief’s Daughter is the first book in the Cornish Tales series, I’ve read all of them (unless some have passed me by that I have missed, if so point them out to me now) and I have loved each and everyone, but this is the first Audiobook copy of this series. Each book is a stand-alone, there is a connection between them, I won’t say what but you can read them in any order without trouble – I did start this series partway through, so I know you can pick up any and thoroughly enjoy it without stressing that you have missed out on anything.
Set during 1779, Cornwall daughter of a family of thief’s; Jenna Cartwright has never wanted to be a part of their way of life she has always thought you should work hard to get what you want from life and not just take what you can. When her parents are taken by the notorious thief-takers at the tender age of four she is left in the not quite capable hands of her brother Silas. With Silas as her only brother now on these shores as her others have either been caught, killed or otherwise unknown, Jenna may have been better off living anywhere else, Silas is no better than his parents and thinks every pocket and purse are free gain and thinks nothing about trying to lure his young innocent sister into the game too. This is one of the reasons she marries the first man who comes along to rid herself of that life and of that name, but her marriage to the Kestle isn’t what she expected.
I liked Jenna from the moment we meet her in the town square when her good-for-nothing husband is being hanged for poaching, instead of being the grieving widow, Jenna is there to make certain the hangman’s noose does the job properly – plus helping it along (use your imagination, our tiny Jenna hanging onto the feet of her husband on the gallows). She shows herself to be full of courage, she is kind, good and loyal to those who unfortunately don’t deserve her loyalty. She has so much to give, she is caring and patient and exceedingly put upon first by her parents then by her brother and finally by her husband. All our Jenna wants is to be able to live a quiet life with someone to love her.
Then she meets Jack!
Jack!!…Deep guttural sighh!!
Jack, Oh Jack – pass me the smelling salts I may swoon!!
My heart has been stolen by this rough, rugged, monosyllabic, grumbling, brooding, fragile and determined thief-taker. Oooh, I’ve come over all hot and bothered, he makes you want to go out and steal something just so he can come and find you to clap you in irons, our boy Jack can come and put me on the straight and narrow anytime 😉
Jack Penhale has been sent to Cornwall to hunt down a smuggling gang that has been rife in the little cove, he has a personal reason why he has spent his entire life hunting those who steal and swindle – there is a reason why he hates smugglers and thief’s as much as he does and why he throws himself into this way of life. When you learn Jack’s history, you instantly feel a strong thread attached to your heart, pulling you closer and closer to him until you are pressed face-first into that solid chest ….grrrr…I think my wayward thoughts came out on the page there – note to self; control yourself!!!
I have to pay special mention to the narrator; Emma Powell, what a wonderful narrator she is she brought every scene to life, she gave Jack and Jenna a voice and I was completely taken with her rolling Cornish. Some narrators can put the voices on a wee bit too strong and they can be a bit grating to listen to but Emma Powell has got the perfect mix of sweet and fierce Jenna and gravelly almost purring Jack, I particularly loved her dark-toned villains and smugglers which is where the Cornish is even stronger and it’s like I’ve been transported to the Cornish coast.
The story flows with incredible ease, the pacing is spot on and you will find that hours have flown by in what seemed like minutes. The characters are just part of what makes this a fantastic book the main one being the actual Cornish coast takes your breath away, it feels so real as though you are standing on the cliff with the breeze in your hair breathing in the salty air. Then you have the actual ‘people’ characters each one brings life to the story our leading couple are astounding together, I also love the vast secondary characters the good, the bad and the ugly all pack a punch.
Victoria Cornwall is the queen of historical romance/adventure, she dazzles with her eloquent and richly passionate writing, I love how she swirls romance and adventure around you like an ethereal mist casting off the sea.
Overall, a fabulous narration for a brilliant book, The Thief’s Daughter is an evocative, exciting and passionate adventure full of danger, family, drama love and lust.
August 11, 2017
The Thief's Daughter is a stand alone novel by Victoria Cornwall.
Jenna Cartwright comes from a long line of smugglers and thieves in her family and has seen all of them disappear or arrested for their crimes. She is determined to remain honest and prove that all Cartwrights are not the same. She's suffered a marriage to an abusive man who ends up hung for being caught poaching. Her brother who has raised her since her parents disappeared is in debtors jail, and has begged her to help him pay off his debts. He wants her to steal, but she refuses, but she needs a job with a place to stay, so attends a mop fair (an old fashioned job fair if you like) where she hopes to be employed as a house keeper. She intends to use her wages to pay off her brother's debts. He on the other hand wants the money faster than that, and asks her to give up her good girl ways just enough to get the money.
Jack Penhale is a thief taker. A man who is employed to find and arrest people who have stolen from others. It was actually him who arrested Jenna's brother (not that she knows that). He sees Jenna at the mop fair and against his better judgement he hires her for one day in order to rescue her from being hired by a lecherous man who obviously wants her for more than her housekeeping services. He doesn't want her services and tells he so, but she insists on doing what she has been paid for, and she fully plans on convincing him to keep her on for at least a year.
Jack is in Cornwall to discover who is behind a nasty smuggling ring, he keeps what he is doing a secret from everyone including Jenna. She on the other hand has her own secrets, neither one of them trust each other, but despite that, there is an instant attraction between them that they both try to fight. His secrets and her secrets are intertwined little do they know, and it's going to lead to a showdown one way or another.
What follows is a story full of twists and turns, betrayal, near betrayal, life and death situations, and a wonderful blossoming romance that by rights could end in tears.
I thoroughly enjoyed the suspense of Jack trying to uncover the smugglers' boss, and then the shock of finding out who it was. The way the author describes the Cornish coast, and the way the smugglers use the coves to smuggle was fascinating, I could almost picture myself there. The romance between Jack and Jenna was so lovely to see develop and it was wonderful to read how passionate they became but without too much detail. It was very nicely done. From page one I was hooked on the storyline, and couldn't read quickly enough to find out how everything would be resolved. I wasn't disappointed. This book definitely had the wow factor for me, I really really loved it.
I voluntarily read an advanced readers' copy of this book.
Jenna Cartwright comes from a long line of smugglers and thieves in her family and has seen all of them disappear or arrested for their crimes. She is determined to remain honest and prove that all Cartwrights are not the same. She's suffered a marriage to an abusive man who ends up hung for being caught poaching. Her brother who has raised her since her parents disappeared is in debtors jail, and has begged her to help him pay off his debts. He wants her to steal, but she refuses, but she needs a job with a place to stay, so attends a mop fair (an old fashioned job fair if you like) where she hopes to be employed as a house keeper. She intends to use her wages to pay off her brother's debts. He on the other hand wants the money faster than that, and asks her to give up her good girl ways just enough to get the money.
Jack Penhale is a thief taker. A man who is employed to find and arrest people who have stolen from others. It was actually him who arrested Jenna's brother (not that she knows that). He sees Jenna at the mop fair and against his better judgement he hires her for one day in order to rescue her from being hired by a lecherous man who obviously wants her for more than her housekeeping services. He doesn't want her services and tells he so, but she insists on doing what she has been paid for, and she fully plans on convincing him to keep her on for at least a year.
Jack is in Cornwall to discover who is behind a nasty smuggling ring, he keeps what he is doing a secret from everyone including Jenna. She on the other hand has her own secrets, neither one of them trust each other, but despite that, there is an instant attraction between them that they both try to fight. His secrets and her secrets are intertwined little do they know, and it's going to lead to a showdown one way or another.
What follows is a story full of twists and turns, betrayal, near betrayal, life and death situations, and a wonderful blossoming romance that by rights could end in tears.
I thoroughly enjoyed the suspense of Jack trying to uncover the smugglers' boss, and then the shock of finding out who it was. The way the author describes the Cornish coast, and the way the smugglers use the coves to smuggle was fascinating, I could almost picture myself there. The romance between Jack and Jenna was so lovely to see develop and it was wonderful to read how passionate they became but without too much detail. It was very nicely done. From page one I was hooked on the storyline, and couldn't read quickly enough to find out how everything would be resolved. I wasn't disappointed. This book definitely had the wow factor for me, I really really loved it.
I voluntarily read an advanced readers' copy of this book.
January 4, 2017
The story begins with four year old Jenna hiding in a cupboard. Strange men have come to the house and have taken away her parents and two elder brothers. These men are known as thief takers and they track down and apprehend those who rob and steal. Discovering Jenna one of t hem hauls her from her hiding place and leaves her with a stark warning.
We meet Jenna again twelve years later as her brutal husband is being hung for poaching. Her only remaining brother Silas, whom she is very close to, is currently in debtor’s prison. Now free from the horrors of her marriage, Jenna is desperate to find the money to pay off Silas’s creditors and get him out of prison. She sets off for the Hiring Fayre with the hope she will find an employer to take her on. There she sees Jack Penhale, a man she remembers from the crowd at her husband’s hanging. Her first job ends badly and she returns to the Fayre where she meets Jack once more. After saving her from the clutches of a lecherous man he employs her for one day, pays her and lets her go. But Jenna is determined she should work for the money she has received and follows him back to his cottage. Against his better judgement Jack relents and soon agrees to take her on indefinitely, unaware she is a member of a local family of disreputable thieves – the Cartwrights.
After his father was brutally murdered by smugglers Jack became a thief taker, working to bring law breakers to justice. He is currently working locally with the militia, trying to root out a smuggling ring. When Silas persuades Jenna she can earn more money to free him by joining the smugglers she knows although it places her in great danger she can’t refuse him. However, on the night they are ambushed by the militia and she only escapes capture because is there to Jack save her. As he learns more about Jenna, Jack knows having her under his roof puts him in danger. For not only is he the man who put Silas behind bars, he is also beginning to fall in love with Jenna.
I love historical romance and this debut novel really entertained. Jenna and Jack’s characters were both strong in their own way. Jenna is a feisty young woman and the only member of her unsavoury family with anything resembling morals. And dark, handsome, enigmatic Jack - although working for the law he is aware of the social deprivation which creates the climate for smuggling. Silas proves a worthy antagonist too. A selfish, lying, manipulative individual, right up until his exit from the story, he endeavours to make both Jack and Jenna’s lives miserable. I loved the way the story gradually unfolded. The two main characters who come from totally opposite side gradually learning about who the other was. And the action constantly takes them into dark and dangerous situations from which it appears there’s no hope of escape.
A great writing debut with a wonderful heroine and a worthy Choc Lit hero. I thoroughly enjoyed it and look forward to Victoria’s next novel.
We meet Jenna again twelve years later as her brutal husband is being hung for poaching. Her only remaining brother Silas, whom she is very close to, is currently in debtor’s prison. Now free from the horrors of her marriage, Jenna is desperate to find the money to pay off Silas’s creditors and get him out of prison. She sets off for the Hiring Fayre with the hope she will find an employer to take her on. There she sees Jack Penhale, a man she remembers from the crowd at her husband’s hanging. Her first job ends badly and she returns to the Fayre where she meets Jack once more. After saving her from the clutches of a lecherous man he employs her for one day, pays her and lets her go. But Jenna is determined she should work for the money she has received and follows him back to his cottage. Against his better judgement Jack relents and soon agrees to take her on indefinitely, unaware she is a member of a local family of disreputable thieves – the Cartwrights.
After his father was brutally murdered by smugglers Jack became a thief taker, working to bring law breakers to justice. He is currently working locally with the militia, trying to root out a smuggling ring. When Silas persuades Jenna she can earn more money to free him by joining the smugglers she knows although it places her in great danger she can’t refuse him. However, on the night they are ambushed by the militia and she only escapes capture because is there to Jack save her. As he learns more about Jenna, Jack knows having her under his roof puts him in danger. For not only is he the man who put Silas behind bars, he is also beginning to fall in love with Jenna.
I love historical romance and this debut novel really entertained. Jenna and Jack’s characters were both strong in their own way. Jenna is a feisty young woman and the only member of her unsavoury family with anything resembling morals. And dark, handsome, enigmatic Jack - although working for the law he is aware of the social deprivation which creates the climate for smuggling. Silas proves a worthy antagonist too. A selfish, lying, manipulative individual, right up until his exit from the story, he endeavours to make both Jack and Jenna’s lives miserable. I loved the way the story gradually unfolded. The two main characters who come from totally opposite side gradually learning about who the other was. And the action constantly takes them into dark and dangerous situations from which it appears there’s no hope of escape.
A great writing debut with a wonderful heroine and a worthy Choc Lit hero. I thoroughly enjoyed it and look forward to Victoria’s next novel.
September 13, 2017
The Thief’s Daughter by Victoria Cornwall is set in 1765 through about 1790 in a small village within Cornwall, England. The story opens with a tense scene of little four year old Jenna hiding from the thief-takers as her parents and older brothers are trying to evade capture. Now only Jenna and her older brother Silas are all that is left behind of her poor family. Jenna’s parents were known thieves and she never saw them again after they were taken to the prison. Enabling the smugglers was a way of life for many of the costal poor.
Later Jenna is married to a smuggler who is hanged for his crimes. He was a brutal man who had treated her badly and she wanted to ensure he died at the hanging. The tale of how she contributed to his quick death on the gallows is very witty. She was thought to be doing him a kindness by the onlookers, when in her heart she wanted to make sure he was truly dead.
Jenna’s brother Silas has continued in the ways of his parents and schemes his way through life. Jenna tries to find employment as a housekeeper to help pay his fines and get him released from the debtor’s prison. He lies to her time and again for his own gain. Silas is all she has, and so Jenna will do any honest work to help him. Jenna has tried so hard to live an honest life as best she can. She wants to live above the reputation her parents have left behind.
I won’t post spoilers, but when Jenna first meets Jack she has no idea that later in her life he will become such an important part of her survival. The story of Jenna and Jack along with the smuggling and deceptions of Silas weaves a very interesting story of historical fiction. The cover is beautiful!
Later Jenna is married to a smuggler who is hanged for his crimes. He was a brutal man who had treated her badly and she wanted to ensure he died at the hanging. The tale of how she contributed to his quick death on the gallows is very witty. She was thought to be doing him a kindness by the onlookers, when in her heart she wanted to make sure he was truly dead.
Jenna’s brother Silas has continued in the ways of his parents and schemes his way through life. Jenna tries to find employment as a housekeeper to help pay his fines and get him released from the debtor’s prison. He lies to her time and again for his own gain. Silas is all she has, and so Jenna will do any honest work to help him. Jenna has tried so hard to live an honest life as best she can. She wants to live above the reputation her parents have left behind.
I won’t post spoilers, but when Jenna first meets Jack she has no idea that later in her life he will become such an important part of her survival. The story of Jenna and Jack along with the smuggling and deceptions of Silas weaves a very interesting story of historical fiction. The cover is beautiful!
January 11, 2017
Cornwall, England in the 1700s is a dreary, poor and tough place to live! When Jenna was a child, she had an experience that remained one of the most terrible memories of her life, one that made her resolve to remain honest no matter what circumstances arose. The Thief-Taker came to arrest members of her family, never to be seen again because they would be executed. Now, Jenna’s only brother Silas and his wife and children are in debtor’s prison and the only way Jenna can save them is by getting into the black-market business. Jenna, therefore, first tries to hire herself out as a maid, her service bought by Jack Penhale, a thief-taker out for his own revenge. Desperate times call for desperate measures! What is so striking about this novel is the age-old question, “Should a thief be punished if he or she is stealing to avoid dying from starvation?” Why did the Crown or British government spend so much money finding and executing smugglers instead of helping set up a system for poor people to find a job that would enable them to live above subsistence level? Cornish life was hard, but perhaps made somewhat easier for those in love. The Thief’s Daughter is a simple story that has more romance, adventure and mystery than history within its tense, plot-driven pages. The plight of those forced to participate in the black trade was a dire situation carefully and potently portrayed by Victoria Cornwall.
April 4, 2017
There's something about a story set in eighteenth-century Cornwall that continues to appeal to me. I think it harks back to the days, when as a teenager, I devoured the Cornish family sagas by Susan Howatch and of course, the Poldark novels by Winston Graham. So, to have the opportunity to support a debut author, with a similar story set in Cornwall appealed to me right from the start.
Multi layered and exciting The Thief's Daughter is one of those sweeping Cornish sagas that immediately whisks you back in time to a bygone age when deadly feuds existed and where danger lurked on every corner. Smugglers, thieves and vagabonds conceal their secrets in hidden coves and the wild and rugged scenery combine to bring alive the jagged Cornish landscape of two hundred years ago.
The author has done a great job of telling creative historical fiction. I really enjoyed getting to know Jenna, the eponymous thief’s daughter, and also watching how her relationship with the charismatic, Jack Penhale, played out in the wider scheme of the story. The history feels authentic and there is a good sense of atmosphere which conjures the wild beauty of Cornwall, so that it becomes easy to place yourself there in the eighteenth century. The characterisation is strong and nicely developed, and the plot ,at the centre of the story, is both exciting and believable.
All in all, a good debut from a talented new writer.
Multi layered and exciting The Thief's Daughter is one of those sweeping Cornish sagas that immediately whisks you back in time to a bygone age when deadly feuds existed and where danger lurked on every corner. Smugglers, thieves and vagabonds conceal their secrets in hidden coves and the wild and rugged scenery combine to bring alive the jagged Cornish landscape of two hundred years ago.
The author has done a great job of telling creative historical fiction. I really enjoyed getting to know Jenna, the eponymous thief’s daughter, and also watching how her relationship with the charismatic, Jack Penhale, played out in the wider scheme of the story. The history feels authentic and there is a good sense of atmosphere which conjures the wild beauty of Cornwall, so that it becomes easy to place yourself there in the eighteenth century. The characterisation is strong and nicely developed, and the plot ,at the centre of the story, is both exciting and believable.
All in all, a good debut from a talented new writer.
January 4, 2017
What a wonderful debut novel from Victoria Cornwall! I'm not usually an historic romance fan but I was swept up in the story and the beautiful scenery descriptions.
Jenna and Jack's relationship has highs, lows and strong arguments! I love a relationship that isn't black and white and this one is very colourful! I also enjoyed Jenna's attempt to escape her past and not be painted with the same brush as her family.
As my readers know, I am a great fan of Choc Lit and this is yet another book worthy of them. I look forward to Victoria's next book.
I was given an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Jenna and Jack's relationship has highs, lows and strong arguments! I love a relationship that isn't black and white and this one is very colourful! I also enjoyed Jenna's attempt to escape her past and not be painted with the same brush as her family.
As my readers know, I am a great fan of Choc Lit and this is yet another book worthy of them. I look forward to Victoria's next book.
I was given an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
February 5, 2017
This is a fantastic, gripping read, full of drama and passion, with a wonderful sense of place. I loved the relationship dynamics in the novel. Jenna, the heroine, has to deal with so many conflicting feelings and I thought these were skilfully portrayed. It was also fascinating to absorb the historical details, which were woven into the story very naturally. And last but not least, Jack Penhale is a very appealing hero!
March 1, 2017
A great historical romance in the Poldark tradition with a wonderful hero, spirited heroine and smugglers galore, all in a wonderful Cornish setting. There are plenty of villains too and the poor heroine faces a really tough choice – should she believe the brother who’s always had her back or the man she’s fallen in love with? And can she ever escape her family’s past and forge a better future for herself? I very much enjoyed finding out.
July 13, 2017
This book has received a Discovering Diamonds Review:
"Elegantly written, filled with derring-do, excitement, adventure, danger and betrayal, this debut novel bowls along from start to finish, magnificently incorporating smugglers, nice ‘goodies’, nasty ‘baddies’, and stunningly described scenery."
Helen Hollick
founder #DDRevs
"Elegantly written, filled with derring-do, excitement, adventure, danger and betrayal, this debut novel bowls along from start to finish, magnificently incorporating smugglers, nice ‘goodies’, nasty ‘baddies’, and stunningly described scenery."
Helen Hollick
founder #DDRevs
October 9, 2017
Travel back in time to Cornwall where the burdens of England’s two wars and a hardscrabble life for many of her citizens finds smuggling to avoid taxation, theft and morally questionable acts are all that come between many families and starvation. Jenna Cartwright is the youngest child in her notorious family, raised with thieving, smuggling and learning her parent’s craft. At four or five, she has already lost two older brothers to jail, and the third child has eschewed the family trade to seek his own life at sea, leaving his sister, younger brother and parents behind. Starting with a glimpse at Jenna’s first strong memory, we see the child hiding quietly and trying to stay unnoticed from the thief takers (think bounty hunters) as they have come for her parents. She’s discovered but left behind after a thorough scaring: and soon her only remaining family member, her brother Silas, comes to comfort her.
Jack Penhale is a thief-taker, one of the best in the business. He’s first encountered Jenna as she’s running from assisting her husband’s death during a hanging, to the anger and dismay of the crowd. Now without a home or support, she’s gone to the Mop Faire, hoping to find employment. While Jack isn’t interested in having anyone in his home, he finds himself with a housekeeper, one that he’s intrigued by far more than he should be.
What follows is layered, complex and completely organic in feel. Jenna is nothing like her family, and has worked incredibly hard to overcome the name she was born to, going so far as to marry the first who showed interest: a horrible man who was as free with his fists. She’s only got her brother Silas as family, he’s now in debtor’s prison and consistently abusing her trust and caring for him with lies, schemes and more lies. Jack is determined to discover just who is running the smugglers in the area, he’s been brought in by a local man with political connections and ambitions to achieve that goal. But, he’s still not told Jenna of his work, and she’s not shared her life in it’s entirety with him. Both have plenty of secrets they keep, but his treatment of Jenna: teaching her to read, providing her safe haven, even treating her as an equal and with respect is like nothing she’s ever encountered, and feelings are growing. Despite his determination to not need anyone, or anything, Jack’s desire for and attraction to Jenna, the person she is: loyalties and curiosity included, have him battling his own secretive nature and worries that if she knew what he was doing, she’d be in danger, or share her knowledge with those who can’t be trusted.
Victoria Cornwall brings the place, time and these characters to life: while you understand Jack’s quandaries: understanding that people are starving and the smuggling puts a few meager pennies into their pockets; pennies that could mean the difference between existence and starving, his determination to root out the ringleaders and end the terrorizing of merchants and townsfolk from the smugglers is one that he clearly struggles with. Not everything, for him, is black and white after Jenna appears in his life: he’s seeing the greys and having a difficult time balancing the crimes and punishments wth his own personal prejudices. For her part, Jenna has never been able to rely on any but family, and even knowing that Silas is more prone to lie than truth, she can’t overcome the doubts and questions that he places in her mind: still thinking as the little girl with only her brother to protect her. When you add the writing and the complexity of life experience, desires for more and the reality of the secrets held far too long, the story builds into clear pictures as you read on, wishing that things work out even as you believe they just may not. Corruption, larceny, tension and moments of heat where the connection between Jack and Jenna sparks into flame, the story unfolds in a way that demands attention and keeps giving more. I can’t wait to see where the next book leads, as I’m ready to go back to see the changes and progress as time marches on.
I received an eArc copy of the title from the publisher via NetGalley for purpose of honest review. I was not compensated for this review: all conclusions are my own responsibility.
Review first appeared at I am, Indeed
Jack Penhale is a thief-taker, one of the best in the business. He’s first encountered Jenna as she’s running from assisting her husband’s death during a hanging, to the anger and dismay of the crowd. Now without a home or support, she’s gone to the Mop Faire, hoping to find employment. While Jack isn’t interested in having anyone in his home, he finds himself with a housekeeper, one that he’s intrigued by far more than he should be.
What follows is layered, complex and completely organic in feel. Jenna is nothing like her family, and has worked incredibly hard to overcome the name she was born to, going so far as to marry the first who showed interest: a horrible man who was as free with his fists. She’s only got her brother Silas as family, he’s now in debtor’s prison and consistently abusing her trust and caring for him with lies, schemes and more lies. Jack is determined to discover just who is running the smugglers in the area, he’s been brought in by a local man with political connections and ambitions to achieve that goal. But, he’s still not told Jenna of his work, and she’s not shared her life in it’s entirety with him. Both have plenty of secrets they keep, but his treatment of Jenna: teaching her to read, providing her safe haven, even treating her as an equal and with respect is like nothing she’s ever encountered, and feelings are growing. Despite his determination to not need anyone, or anything, Jack’s desire for and attraction to Jenna, the person she is: loyalties and curiosity included, have him battling his own secretive nature and worries that if she knew what he was doing, she’d be in danger, or share her knowledge with those who can’t be trusted.
Victoria Cornwall brings the place, time and these characters to life: while you understand Jack’s quandaries: understanding that people are starving and the smuggling puts a few meager pennies into their pockets; pennies that could mean the difference between existence and starving, his determination to root out the ringleaders and end the terrorizing of merchants and townsfolk from the smugglers is one that he clearly struggles with. Not everything, for him, is black and white after Jenna appears in his life: he’s seeing the greys and having a difficult time balancing the crimes and punishments wth his own personal prejudices. For her part, Jenna has never been able to rely on any but family, and even knowing that Silas is more prone to lie than truth, she can’t overcome the doubts and questions that he places in her mind: still thinking as the little girl with only her brother to protect her. When you add the writing and the complexity of life experience, desires for more and the reality of the secrets held far too long, the story builds into clear pictures as you read on, wishing that things work out even as you believe they just may not. Corruption, larceny, tension and moments of heat where the connection between Jack and Jenna sparks into flame, the story unfolds in a way that demands attention and keeps giving more. I can’t wait to see where the next book leads, as I’m ready to go back to see the changes and progress as time marches on.
I received an eArc copy of the title from the publisher via NetGalley for purpose of honest review. I was not compensated for this review: all conclusions are my own responsibility.
Review first appeared at I am, Indeed
September 24, 2017
Jenna Cartwright is from a family of thieves, her parents are sent to the goal when they are caught, two of her older brothers are caught and she doesn't know what happened to them. One brother ran to sea, that leaves just her and her younger brother. Jack Penhale is a thief taker, he is investigating a violent and cruel smuggler gang.
The story is in 1765 when smuggling is rampant and the government wants them gone. There are so many twists and turns to this tale but thanks to the author she has managed to put together a cohesive, even paced and smooth story. I found I was unable to put it down, it was that good. The characters were so interesting and life like and the dialogue fit well. The descriptions were excellent but scary in places, like when her husband was hanged. I feel that this book was a marvelous read and so worth the time to do so.
I received this book from Net Galley and voluntarily reviewed it.
The story is in 1765 when smuggling is rampant and the government wants them gone. There are so many twists and turns to this tale but thanks to the author she has managed to put together a cohesive, even paced and smooth story. I found I was unable to put it down, it was that good. The characters were so interesting and life like and the dialogue fit well. The descriptions were excellent but scary in places, like when her husband was hanged. I feel that this book was a marvelous read and so worth the time to do so.
I received this book from Net Galley and voluntarily reviewed it.
September 21, 2017
I do not usually read historic fiction but the Poldark factor influenced my choice and piqued my interest in Cornwall and the smuggling among its beaches. I liked Jenna and Jack and enjoyed reading about them and their growing romance. A little slow and repetitive in places but overall a good and engaging read.
September 11, 2017
I am voluntarily submitting my honest review after receiving a copy of this ebook from NetGalley.
This novel is a flawlessly written, fabulous read! Reminiscent of Poldark in subject matter, but with a style and perspective all its own, The Thief's Daughter is a gripping, emotional look at the dark underbelly of smuggling during its heyday in one Cornish community. Told largely from the perspectives of an honest young woman born into a family of thieves and smugglers, and a man bent on vengeance after the murder of his father, this novel is also a beautiful love story between two hurting, but healing hearts. The author's evocative description of the landscape makes the wild, rugged seas almost another character. The characters are fascinating people, and the plot is well thought out and moves quickly. I loved this book and I think it would make a great movie!
This novel is a flawlessly written, fabulous read! Reminiscent of Poldark in subject matter, but with a style and perspective all its own, The Thief's Daughter is a gripping, emotional look at the dark underbelly of smuggling during its heyday in one Cornish community. Told largely from the perspectives of an honest young woman born into a family of thieves and smugglers, and a man bent on vengeance after the murder of his father, this novel is also a beautiful love story between two hurting, but healing hearts. The author's evocative description of the landscape makes the wild, rugged seas almost another character. The characters are fascinating people, and the plot is well thought out and moves quickly. I loved this book and I think it would make a great movie!
August 21, 2017
Hide from the thief-taker, for if he finds you, he will take you away …
Eighteenth-century Cornwall is crippled by debt and poverty, while the gibbet casts a shadow of fear over the land. Yet, when night falls, free traders swarm onto the beaches and smuggling prospers.
Terrified by a thief-taker’s warning as a child, Jenna has resolved to be good. When her brother, Silas, asks for her help to pay his creditors, Jenna feels unable to refuse and finds herself entering the dangerous world of the smuggling trade.
Jack Penhale hunts down the smuggling gangs in revenge for his father’s death. Drawn to Jenna at a hiring fayre, they discover their lives are entangled. But as Jenna struggles to decide where her allegiances lie, the worlds of justice and crime collide, leading to danger and heartache for all concerned...
Jenna has been brought up with the family name of Cartwright's, the only trouble is the name is renowned for being thief's!! Jenna doesn't want to be tarred with the same brush as her family name so rushes into marriage to get rid of her maiden name, but the marriage doesn't work out as Jenna hoped and Jenna is mistreated through out her marriage.
Jenna only wants to live a honest life with a man she loves, can this ever happen for her or will she always be known as a thief?? If Silas her brother has his way Jenna will always work on the wrong side of the law. Can Jenna fight back and rid herself of this background.
Good storyline that flows very nicely, good descriptive characters and the setting really brings you into the storyline.
Eighteenth-century Cornwall is crippled by debt and poverty, while the gibbet casts a shadow of fear over the land. Yet, when night falls, free traders swarm onto the beaches and smuggling prospers.
Terrified by a thief-taker’s warning as a child, Jenna has resolved to be good. When her brother, Silas, asks for her help to pay his creditors, Jenna feels unable to refuse and finds herself entering the dangerous world of the smuggling trade.
Jack Penhale hunts down the smuggling gangs in revenge for his father’s death. Drawn to Jenna at a hiring fayre, they discover their lives are entangled. But as Jenna struggles to decide where her allegiances lie, the worlds of justice and crime collide, leading to danger and heartache for all concerned...
Jenna has been brought up with the family name of Cartwright's, the only trouble is the name is renowned for being thief's!! Jenna doesn't want to be tarred with the same brush as her family name so rushes into marriage to get rid of her maiden name, but the marriage doesn't work out as Jenna hoped and Jenna is mistreated through out her marriage.
Jenna only wants to live a honest life with a man she loves, can this ever happen for her or will she always be known as a thief?? If Silas her brother has his way Jenna will always work on the wrong side of the law. Can Jenna fight back and rid herself of this background.
Good storyline that flows very nicely, good descriptive characters and the setting really brings you into the storyline.
March 13, 2017
When I first started reading this book I wasn't sure whether I was going to enjoy it and had to re-read the first couple of pages twice however I'm very pleased to say that after the getting past the first few pages I was hooked. This is a story of Jenna who comes from a troublesome family and Jack Penhale who is a 'thief taker' trying to put an end to the smuggling gangs in eighteenth century Cornwall. I was drawn to the main characters and could imagine Jack being a very handsome man who has some demons of his own which have led to a desire to ensure that wrongs were righted. The main characters are very believable and it has great supporting characters who, due to the wonderful writing, are brought to life and I can really imagine how they look and sound. The setting is wonderful and I could also picture the beautiful beaches of Cornwall and when Victoria Cornwall describes the smuggling scenes I felt as if I was there watching the scene unfolding in front of me. A wonderful historical romance which I would definitely recommend and I look forward to reading more from this brilliant author.
This book was provided to me free of charge by Choc-Lit in exchange for my honest review which is completely my own opinion.
This book was provided to me free of charge by Choc-Lit in exchange for my honest review which is completely my own opinion.
May 30, 2017
The Thief’s daughter is right up my street. It is one of those rare books, beautifully written and with all the elements of a great read: Excitement, a good dose of accurate history, and a beautiful love story. I read the last half in one sitting, desperate to find out what happened in the end. There were times when I was anxious for the safety of Jenna, or for Jack, and times when I had a tear in my eye.
Jenna is the thief’s daughter, and Jack is a thief-taker. They were so well drawn that I could see them both in my imagination. I could see the rugged setting of the Cornish coast, too, although I have never been there. Great descriptive writing, but with a light touch.
Jenna and Jack first meet at a hanging, which sets the pace for the novel. Theirs is a tender love-story fraught with danger and suspicion. We have a cast of suitably nasty villains mixed up in the 18th century smuggling trade. Silas was a believable baddie, causing a rift which propelled the story forward to its exciting denouement.
This was a great read, and it deserves all its five stars. If you like your romance with a bit of adventure, you will love this book.
Jenna is the thief’s daughter, and Jack is a thief-taker. They were so well drawn that I could see them both in my imagination. I could see the rugged setting of the Cornish coast, too, although I have never been there. Great descriptive writing, but with a light touch.
Jenna and Jack first meet at a hanging, which sets the pace for the novel. Theirs is a tender love-story fraught with danger and suspicion. We have a cast of suitably nasty villains mixed up in the 18th century smuggling trade. Silas was a believable baddie, causing a rift which propelled the story forward to its exciting denouement.
This was a great read, and it deserves all its five stars. If you like your romance with a bit of adventure, you will love this book.
January 15, 2017
Captivating Read
The Thief’s Daughter is a delight from start to finish. I was swept along by the hero, heroine and the plot. I thought Victoria Cornwall’s writing was eloquent and easy to read. Like many, I love tales of smuggling and Cornwall and have enjoyed the Poldark novels and Frenchman’s Creek, The Thief’s Daughter gave me similar enjoyment allowing me to be swept away to another world and time.
Jenna is a feisty heroine with enough conflict in her background to make you want to root for her future happiness. Jack too has secrets and past hurts that should and do put him at odds with Jenna to make a captivating story.
I loved this and will be looking out for future Victoria Cornwall novels to get lost in. Cornwall, smuggling and a great story, what more could you ask?
The Thief’s Daughter is a delight from start to finish. I was swept along by the hero, heroine and the plot. I thought Victoria Cornwall’s writing was eloquent and easy to read. Like many, I love tales of smuggling and Cornwall and have enjoyed the Poldark novels and Frenchman’s Creek, The Thief’s Daughter gave me similar enjoyment allowing me to be swept away to another world and time.
Jenna is a feisty heroine with enough conflict in her background to make you want to root for her future happiness. Jack too has secrets and past hurts that should and do put him at odds with Jenna to make a captivating story.
I loved this and will be looking out for future Victoria Cornwall novels to get lost in. Cornwall, smuggling and a great story, what more could you ask?
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