like the best of her work, this one is tightly plotted, with wholesome-but-authentic characters and a few surprises. She crossed to the far end of the room, took the bread knife, the steak knife, and her own penknife in one hand, and without pausing to make sure the others were watching her, threw the knives over their heads at the mantlepiece. First of all, I thought the writing style for both ‘The Wolf Wilder’ and ‘The Good Thieves’ were beautifully crafted. It seemed effortless for the author to string sentences together as the whole novel is filled with seamless prose and if you are looking for an example, try reading the quote that I had placed above of this sentence. I have loved the style of her writing and the technique she used to string sentences and words together ever since I read ‘The Wolf Wilder’. The author does not concoct extra information just to prolong the novel or string more sentences together to hit a goal or something, she gives the information so impeccably that everything seems necessary. In addition, I thought the descriptions that she had given in the novel were perfectly measured as it felt so real in my brain that I could touch it, virtually. Speaking of descriptions and feeling it virtually, this brings us to the next point: The Atmosphere. I have to admit that I've loved all of her books, but I think this is my fav. Mainly because it's so completely thrilling without for one moment dropping the quality in the writing. A dazzling tale of wild hope, lingering grief, admirable self-sufficiency, and intergenerational adoration.” — Publishers Weekly (starred review)

Rundell had so vividly presented the 1930’s New york. I liked the setting and the narration. What I loved most about this book were the characters. Vita Marlowe was one of the strongest female protagonists I have ever read in fiction. Rundell had very strongly registered a message through Vita’s character that with determination anything is possible despite the physical disabilities. Samuel’s character had set an example that with dedication and hard work one would be able to achieve his/her dream despite the limitations. More than the plot, I liked the moral this book carries. Overall, reading Rundell’s writing was an absolute pleasure.

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When Vita’s grandfather’s mansion is taken from him by a powerful real estate tycoon, Vita knows it’s up to her to make things right. In addition, Rundell's adults are realistic characters with understandable fears and problems along with admirable forbearance and love for the children in their care. And the animals are, as always, funny and smart and a perfect complement to the story. The presence of a Lipizzaner stallion and a lost jewel made me think of the much better book The Star of Kazan by Eva Ibbotson. These aren't the most essential aspects of this book, but there is a crucial reveal at the end that reinforces the similarity. I can't imagine that Rundell hadn't read the earlier book. She is well-versed in children's literature, and the other two books of hers that I've read immediately reminded me of Ibbotson (who is a wonderful model, but please don't borrow the details). Endearing characters, an exciting plot, appropriate pacing, and sheer enjoyment have me rating this middle-grade fiction gem 4.5 peaches and adding Rundell’s other popular offering, Rooftoppers, to my list without delay.

Wait a second." The mostly-devoured loaf of bread still lay on the beer barrel next to the bread knife. She took it, an apple, and an orange, and set them side by side on the mantlepiece. Reading this book made me remember some of the middle grade adventure stories I consumed as a young kid, penned by authors such as Bruce Coville, Eva Ibbotson, and Roald Dahl. Even though it's clearly written for a young audience, the writing doesn't condescend and it has a great vocabulary, so it ends up being the type of story that virtually anyone can enjoy. A compelling Middle Grade that reminded me of my early years of devouring Enid Blyton's mysteries on a weekly basis, I had a good time with this one. Fresh and appealing, the writing style and lovely illustrations that adorned each chapter's headers pulled me into the story, because much like Vita - I wanted to see justice served and I wanted to know how it would come to be. I loved how it also became a mystery, as well - for what she was seeking may be more than what meets the eye. I liked that Katherine Rundell placed our young intrepid into situations that while dark and dangerous, still felt very plausible and believable for their attempts in facing off the villains that targeted them. 🙏🏻🙏🏻 Review : The good thieves by Katherine Rundell is a tale that emanates hope, determination, compassion and above all the message that nothing is impossible if you put your heart to it. plan. I took lessons in the flying trapeze, so that I would know the details – things like which bits of you ache, or how the bar feels against your skin. And I can tell you it is the most amazing sensation – dropping through the air, and reaching out for someone’s hands as you fall. I loved it.If you enjoy middle grade novels and adventure stories, THE GOOD THIEVES is a great choice. I grabbed it on a whim knowing that it might be too young for me, and ended up really enjoying it.