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Chronicles of a Cutpurse #2
Ruler of Scoundrels
Planning freelance heists and skulking through alleys is one thing. Running a thieves' syndicate is something else entirely.
Wearing the tarnished crown of an underworld queen, Myrrh now sits on the ruling council of Ghost syndicate. It's hard enough pulling together a rabble of miscreants and villains, but when thieves across the city start turning up dead and a disturbing stranger offers to help Myrrh solve the crimes, she starts to wonder if she should have accepted the simple position of Glint's second-in-command. Not to mention, the unspoken offer of sharing more than the leadership of his organization.
And then there's the problem of Noble, the boss of the gang Myrrh ousted to gain her new rogue's empire. He's back, and he'll do anything for revenge.
Myrrh's situation is about to go from difficult to impossible...
Wearing the tarnished crown of an underworld queen, Myrrh now sits on the ruling council of Ghost syndicate. It's hard enough pulling together a rabble of miscreants and villains, but when thieves across the city start turning up dead and a disturbing stranger offers to help Myrrh solve the crimes, she starts to wonder if she should have accepted the simple position of Glint's second-in-command. Not to mention, the unspoken offer of sharing more than the leadership of his organization.
And then there's the problem of Noble, the boss of the gang Myrrh ousted to gain her new rogue's empire. He's back, and he'll do anything for revenge.
Myrrh's situation is about to go from difficult to impossible...
254 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 1, 2018
137 people are currently reading
65 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 27 of 27 reviews
September 12, 2018
I read this fabulous book as part of my Lady Thieves September feature. If you'd like a chance to win one or several of these roguish fantasies featuring kickbutt leading ladies, I'm offering a giveaway exclusively for my reader group!
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I read this book as part of my Lady Thieves feature for September and . . . yeah, it was just as much fun as the first in the series!
Ruler of Scoundrels picks up soon after Mistress of Thieves, and it was great to step back into this world and become reintroduced to these characters. There are some great new characters as well, weaving into Myrrh’s ongoing adventure.
Myrrh is now a leader in her own right, head of the newly formed Ghost Syndicate. But when Glint—her almost-love-interest from book 1—calls her attention to the mysterious and inexplicable deaths of thieves happening in the city, her already complicated world gets suddenly more complicated. And the fact that her nemesis, Noble has a bounty on her head only makes things worse!
The intrigue is fun from the get go, but things start to get really fun when Glint draws Myrrh back into his own schemes, having her act as his fiancée. But though she and Glint are having a harder and harder time denying their growing attraction, how can possibly have any future when their agendas for their own syndicates don’t always sync?
I love the magic in this world, which takes the form of different powerful enhancer “drugs.” It’s clever and suits the grittiness of this world while still allowing us to enjoy that dash of the fantastical. The character dynamics are always spot-on, and the action sequences are thrilling. This book is a wild ride and definitely leaves the reader champing at the bit for book 3 in the series!
May 1, 2018
This book was an excellent follow up to Mistress of Thieves! The storyline was great, and the characters were well developed! It was a fantastic page turner that will keep you on the edge of your seat!
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own
May 11, 2018
Ruler of Scoundrels, book 2 in the Chronicles of a Cutpurse series by Carrie Summers.
This book continues where we left off in book 1, Mistress of Thieves. It's built up for happenings in the next book, which is ok. But the author could have explored more between Myrrh and Glint. I still like the character Myrrh, but she could have been more...badass!
However, I can't wait for the next book!!
This book continues where we left off in book 1, Mistress of Thieves. It's built up for happenings in the next book, which is ok. But the author could have explored more between Myrrh and Glint. I still like the character Myrrh, but she could have been more...badass!
However, I can't wait for the next book!!
April 30, 2018
I received an ARC of this book.
This book in one sentence: Myrrh is a little overwhelmed, trying to run the new ghost crime syndicate, keep an eye on her almost-brother Nab, and navigate her relationship with Glint, keeping the former crime lord from exacting revenge and trying to find a murderer who leaves no trace.
My rating: ⭐⭐⭐
Steaminess: 🌶️
Would I recommend: I really liked the first book of the series, but this one left me wanting. It didn't have the same heist feeling as book 1. There wasn't a whole lot of action, most of it was just setting up the third book. None of the characters really evolve or progress during this story. Glint and Myrrh's relationship takes a back seat. Glint gets no character development in this book, he's sort of just a sad puppy who keeps trying to get Myrrh to run away with him. With the ghost syndicate, there was a lost opportunity to really explore the complexe dynamics of collaborative decision making. Even Myrrh doesn't really evolve that much as a character throughout the story, even though she's the focus. I'm hoping things pick up in book 3. I did really enjoy the introduction of more magic in the storyline.
Tropes: will-they-or-won't-they
Content warnings: violence, murder.
This book in one sentence: Myrrh is a little overwhelmed, trying to run the new ghost crime syndicate, keep an eye on her almost-brother Nab, and navigate her relationship with Glint, keeping the former crime lord from exacting revenge and trying to find a murderer who leaves no trace.
My rating: ⭐⭐⭐
Steaminess: 🌶️
Would I recommend: I really liked the first book of the series, but this one left me wanting. It didn't have the same heist feeling as book 1. There wasn't a whole lot of action, most of it was just setting up the third book. None of the characters really evolve or progress during this story. Glint and Myrrh's relationship takes a back seat. Glint gets no character development in this book, he's sort of just a sad puppy who keeps trying to get Myrrh to run away with him. With the ghost syndicate, there was a lost opportunity to really explore the complexe dynamics of collaborative decision making. Even Myrrh doesn't really evolve that much as a character throughout the story, even though she's the focus. I'm hoping things pick up in book 3. I did really enjoy the introduction of more magic in the storyline.
Tropes: will-they-or-won't-they
Content warnings: violence, murder.
April 22, 2018
I received this novel as an ARC from Ms. Summers. Thank you!!
This novel was a great read of the next book in the series. I enjoyed the return of the old characters and the introduction of new characters. The story continues where the last one left off with Myrrh leading the council of the newly formed Ghost Syndicate. There have been mysterious deaths of thieves as well as a bounty on her head from Noble. Myrrh still deals with Glint, the man who is her rival. Glint runs as both sides of the turf, businessman and thief. He has Myrrh play his fiancée and they are still attracted to each other. However, Myrrh cannot act as his fiancée and run the Ghost Syndicate. Glint has his own agenda, but is deeply troubled by the deaths and it has something to do with his past. Myrrh investigates the deaths and uses a “drug” given to her by someone who wants to join her syndicate. Myrrh is unsure whether she should trust this person, but she needs to know what is going on in Rat Town and the other areas of the city. When Myrrh gets down to the truth of the matter, it leads to more questions than answers. I am looking forward to next novel in the series!!
This novel was a great read of the next book in the series. I enjoyed the return of the old characters and the introduction of new characters. The story continues where the last one left off with Myrrh leading the council of the newly formed Ghost Syndicate. There have been mysterious deaths of thieves as well as a bounty on her head from Noble. Myrrh still deals with Glint, the man who is her rival. Glint runs as both sides of the turf, businessman and thief. He has Myrrh play his fiancée and they are still attracted to each other. However, Myrrh cannot act as his fiancée and run the Ghost Syndicate. Glint has his own agenda, but is deeply troubled by the deaths and it has something to do with his past. Myrrh investigates the deaths and uses a “drug” given to her by someone who wants to join her syndicate. Myrrh is unsure whether she should trust this person, but she needs to know what is going on in Rat Town and the other areas of the city. When Myrrh gets down to the truth of the matter, it leads to more questions than answers. I am looking forward to next novel in the series!!
November 8, 2018
Solid Characters, Meandering Plot
Myrrh continues to be forced by circumstances to develop. Strong characters should have a vision or goal for where they are going, but she doesn't.
Tension continues to build with Glint, but the lures of a higher form of theft (government) over running his syndicate is pulling them further apart.
The scenes where Myrrh was unexpectedly forced into fiancee situations were amusing and well written, stealing dress and shoes, etc.
The big fight with Noble and the Whites was very hard to follow and the resolution thereof seemed very implausible to happen in the heat of battle.
Rattle was an interesting character and held a lot of mystery, most of which unfortunately went with him to the grave. This is another taste issue for me, I don't like characters that are interesting and well introduced, then die off quickly. It also reinforced my dislike of the main characters, as ultimately they are immoral thieves and worse.
The teen angst and search for identity by Nab is pretty well written. Juxtaposing child-like search for sweets and pastries with adult risk taking and search for a job.
I'm taking a break from this series before reading the third book, which I seldom do. I know that is indicative of a lack of compelling books overall. But I will finish it.
Myrrh continues to be forced by circumstances to develop. Strong characters should have a vision or goal for where they are going, but she doesn't.
Tension continues to build with Glint, but the lures of a higher form of theft (government) over running his syndicate is pulling them further apart.
The scenes where Myrrh was unexpectedly forced into fiancee situations were amusing and well written, stealing dress and shoes, etc.
The big fight with Noble and the Whites was very hard to follow and the resolution thereof seemed very implausible to happen in the heat of battle.
Rattle was an interesting character and held a lot of mystery, most of which unfortunately went with him to the grave. This is another taste issue for me, I don't like characters that are interesting and well introduced, then die off quickly. It also reinforced my dislike of the main characters, as ultimately they are immoral thieves and worse.
The teen angst and search for identity by Nab is pretty well written. Juxtaposing child-like search for sweets and pastries with adult risk taking and search for a job.
I'm taking a break from this series before reading the third book, which I seldom do. I know that is indicative of a lack of compelling books overall. But I will finish it.
April 27, 2018
I just love this series, it is so light-hearted and humorous at times with the banter that goes on between Myrrh and Glint, it is a very enjoyable read. The mistress of thieves is now the ruler of scoundrels as she is now running her own syndicate in rat town and it is no joke. She is being hunted by the Sliver's boss and his people in retaliation for stealing their turf and in the meantime people are being murdered in their own hovels and for no explicable reason, and Myrrh has sworn to catch the killer. Glint on the other hand is set on climbing up the social ladder, setting his sights on replacing his ousted father the Maire. However mysteries from Glint's past seem to follow him wherever he goes and Myrrh cannot make head or tail of Glint at all, is he an ally or a danger to her? The romance between the two of them is still on the fringes as Myrrh is not ready to completely fall for Glint. maybe we get to see some more action regards this aspect in book 3. Enjoy the read, I know I did!
February 8, 2019
I am impressed with how Ms. Summers weaves a story. She adds little details here and there as the reader gets more acquainted with the story. This is full of action and intrigue as Myrrh, the leader of her gang of thieves, continues to search for an adversary who is causing mysterious deaths not only in her area of Rat Town, but also in rival gang territory. Myrrh is also plagued with the threat from the previous gang leader she ousted. Even though she is a leader of thieves with all these troubles, I believe Myrrh herself has a good heart. She cares for a young boy and when faced with young beggar urchins in the streets she hands them money and gives them sage advice on how to be more successful so they can work their way out of the gutters. I was given this book by the author in exchange for an honest review I can honestly say that I throughly enjoyed this second book in this series. I highly recommend reading this book for all lovers of mystery, intrigue and suspense with a little bit of romance thrown in.
April 26, 2018
Ruler of Scoundrels (Chronicles of a Cutpurse, Volume 2) is the fifth book by Carrie Summers that I’ve read (the others being the initial volume of Chronicles of a Cutpurse, the first two Shattering of the Nocturnai books and the highly original LitRPG novel Temple of Sorrow. All of them, including this latest book, have been fabulous and easily worth five stars. As for this book and it’s series, what can I say? For starters, well, I love Myrrh, and her relationship / competition with Glint of course. But the whole cast, friends or enemies (especially Noble) were beautifully crafted, and the book was well written and with a great plot. Sublime fun. But for the fact that I’m literally dictating this review to my husband from my hospital bed I could go on and on with praises - this book definitely deserves it. Since I can’t do that I will simply note that the book is most definitely one to read, it is easy to highly recommend.
April 26, 2018
Master Thief, Myrrh, finds that it is much easier to take down a crime syndicate that to hold onto in. Her past enemies, the Slivers do not wish to fade away but put pressure on Myrrh’s new fledge crime organization, the Ghost syndicate in an attempt to regain their dominance of Rat Town.
To further complicate the situation, thieves are being found dead with no sign of what or who killed them. Without all the pieces of the puzzle, any misstep could be a fatal one and Myrrh must decide whether to trust a stranger with special skills to help save her people.
The author keeps us memorized with this dark, fantastic world of danger and intrigue. The story is fast paced and the pages fly as fast as a thrown dagger. Ms. Summers has a winner in this series.
For full transparency, I was given an Advance Reading Copy in return for an honest review.
To further complicate the situation, thieves are being found dead with no sign of what or who killed them. Without all the pieces of the puzzle, any misstep could be a fatal one and Myrrh must decide whether to trust a stranger with special skills to help save her people.
The author keeps us memorized with this dark, fantastic world of danger and intrigue. The story is fast paced and the pages fly as fast as a thrown dagger. Ms. Summers has a winner in this series.
For full transparency, I was given an Advance Reading Copy in return for an honest review.
April 28, 2018
Fabulous follow up to Mistress of Thieves! And truly an epic new series. Before Myrrh can even settle in with her league of freelancers in Rat town, she's plagued with new troubles. Can she really rely on her counsel to take over if she has to be away? Noble and the rest of the Silvers she spared will be coming for her sooner or later, and what do you do about a rebellious boy, like Nab? If that isn't enough, scoundrels about the city start turning up dead, with no apparent cause, just about the time a stranger tries to join her counsel. Could there be a connection? Will Myrrh live long enough to find out? Action, adventure, humor and just the right touch of romance! I was gifted a copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
May 2, 2018
I was lucky enough to get a arc copy of this book from the author.
Love the direction that this series is going - even though as the book unfolds you arent sure which way the plot is going to twist next.
New characters appear, Myrrh has to take on more responsibility and relationships with people from the first novel develop and show more depth and complexity.
The writing is very good and you are left wanting more.
Love the direction that this series is going - even though as the book unfolds you arent sure which way the plot is going to twist next.
New characters appear, Myrrh has to take on more responsibility and relationships with people from the first novel develop and show more depth and complexity.
The writing is very good and you are left wanting more.
June 14, 2018
A formula for a booknapping
A smart and savvy kickass female protagonist. An intriguing mystery. A rich world, where thieves form syndicates that cover sections of the city. A dashing romantic interest, with some mystery of his own. A dash of magic and healthy dose of sexual tension. Throw it all together with some skilled writing and you’ve got Chronicles of a Cutpurse, a series I’m finding rather hard to put down.
A smart and savvy kickass female protagonist. An intriguing mystery. A rich world, where thieves form syndicates that cover sections of the city. A dashing romantic interest, with some mystery of his own. A dash of magic and healthy dose of sexual tension. Throw it all together with some skilled writing and you’ve got Chronicles of a Cutpurse, a series I’m finding rather hard to put down.
April 26, 2018
I have enjoyed reading this books very much. Carrie Summers out did herself with this series. I am so in love with this story and all the characters in this series. I can barely wait to see what is gonna happen next. I highly recommend this series and author and book to everyone who loves a great book to read.
I received an ARC and am giving an unbias opinion.
I received an ARC and am giving an unbias opinion.
January 14, 2019
Lots of things I just didn't believe about this book. Everyone is dumb.
April 25, 2018
I received an advanced copy and I enjoyed it so much that I want to review
She is the leader of thieves and others. Suddenly people are being murdered. A stranger comes to her for help. What is going on? Will she find out? Who is this stranger and why is he there? See what is really going on
She is the leader of thieves and others. Suddenly people are being murdered. A stranger comes to her for help. What is going on? Will she find out? Who is this stranger and why is he there? See what is really going on
May 22, 2018
My second read from author Carrie Summers was just long enough after the first to make me forget just how amazing the storyline was & I can't wait for the next book with these characters to see where the storyline takes us. I highly recommend this book!
June 3, 2018
Great story!
I was so looking forward to the second book in this series, and you did NOT disappoint! Thank you for getting them written and released so fast! Now I don’t have to wait...I’m on to the next book!
I was so looking forward to the second book in this series, and you did NOT disappoint! Thank you for getting them written and released so fast! Now I don’t have to wait...I’m on to the next book!
August 1, 2018
Another deeply enjoyable tale of our loveable thief turned half-unwilling kingpin. My only complaint is that the books could be a tad longer so they aren't over as quickly. Also third person present is an odd choice to tell the story in.
August 29, 2018
Much better than the first in this particular series. Writing is quite good. A cliffhanger this time; hmmmm...
I do wish she'd stop with the "sixes this" and "sixes that"; a bit tiresome. It must be the thieves version of the f-bomb!
I do wish she'd stop with the "sixes this" and "sixes that"; a bit tiresome. It must be the thieves version of the f-bomb!
April 25, 2018
Ruler of Scoundrels delivers another captivating installment in the Chronicles of a Cutpurse series. I am seriously in love with these characters! I anxiously await the next book!
April 25, 2018
Another great installment in the series. It was nice to see old characters, meet new ones and see what situations they got into. I received an arc and am voluntarily reviewing it.
May 18, 2018
Wow another great in this second book. Myrrh now sits on the council, but people keep showing up dead. What’s to be done. Had me gripped until the end. Don’t miss out on this story.
May 23, 2018
This was a very nice read that was fast paced and well written. I liked how it flowed from moment to moment. I'm looking forward reading more from this Author.
July 27, 2018
Ruler of Scoundrels was a good follow up.
Although it wasn't as engaging in the first book, it was still good.
I'm still a fan of Glint's fleeting presences in this book.
Although it wasn't as engaging in the first book, it was still good.
I'm still a fan of Glint's fleeting presences in this book.
March 20, 2019
I got pretty bored. Was hoping for more action or development between h/H
November 13, 2022
Solid addition to the series and a good/fun/enjoyable book.
Displaying 1 - 27 of 27 reviews