Shadows & Secrets

Thief #1

by Martin Ferguson

The exciting new series from the author of The Forsaken and Relic Hunters, Martin Ferguson.

Abandoned on the steps of an orphanage and raised alongside other forsaken children, the young half-elf Jaryd struggles to find his place in the world of magic and mystery.
From the torments of the School of Forgotten and Unwanted, to starving on the cold streets of the city of Lisan, Jaryd will learn that to survive will mean he has to steal.
When born with nothing, the world is a pocket to pick…
_____________________________

'A fast-paced, action-packed read with a sneaky, clever hero you’ll root for' Reader review ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
'A dark-fantasy adventure that's full of heart' Reader review ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
'Really great read for any fantasy lovers' Reader review ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
'Jaryd's story growing up was really hard and gritty, which really made you want him to succeed.' Reader review ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
'The writing kept me turning pages late into the night' Reader review ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Genres: Fantasy

167 pages, Kindle Edition

Published April 14, 2025

About the author

Visit the official Facebook Page at: http://fb.me/AuthorMartinFerguson

Martin Ferguson is a UK based author.

Martin can be found and followed on Twitter: @MFergusonAuthor and Instagram: @mferguson100

Martin's debut series, Relic Hunters, is a Young Adult adventure series, drawing on the myths and legends of different time periods and blending them with thrill-seeking action in the modern age.
His second series is the fantasy thrill-seeking adventure series The Forsaken, following the Wraith and her band of cursed, forgotten and abandoned followers as they hunt monsters, hide magic and create mayhem.
Martin's third and latest series is the Young Adult fantasy series Thief, chronicling the journey of orphan half-elf Jaryd; his days of torment within an orphanage, surviving the dangerous streets and joining a Thieves Guild where his talents for taking what is not his can be put to use.

Reviews

[Jenni · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 stars
I really enjoyed Martin’s Relic Hunter series so jumped in with both feet when I saw this book out. I was not disappointed.
Shadows & Secrets is the intriguing first book in the Thief series. It is a dark, gritty fantasy adventure that is fast paced and chock-a-block full of action and mayhem and madness ensues.
Jaryd and Aurelle live in a harsh and dangerous world and the only way to survive is to be cunning and to fight the evil that lurks in the shadows.
There is a lot packed into these few pages with magic, secrets, dark humour, stealing, pain and misfortune, action, thrills, mystery, drama and so much more.
Bring on book 2 Guilds & Gallows.

[Angela · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 - 5 Stars

‘The lands of Eltara are home to powerful magic, terrifying monsters, and warring kingdoms. Gods and deities are revered and feared in equal measure, as fates and destinies play out across the world. Mighty beasts prowl the oceans and the skies above as realms of wonder and horror hide just beyond sight. Valiant heroes fight for justice and honour as traitorous villains plot darkness and destruction from the shadows. There are many legends and stories to be told in the lands of Eltara. One such story begins on the rain-soaked streets of the city of Lisan, as a lone hooded figure hurries in the night...’

Shadows and Secrets is the first book in the Thief series by Martin Ferguson. The author claimed me as a fan with his ‘Relic Hunters’ series, so I was excited to embark on this new adventure with him. This is a fantastic start to the series and delivered everything I had hoped for, and more.
A young adult action-adventure fantasy with wonderful world-building, intriguing characters, mystery, heist, secrets, gritty developments, some darker (horror-ish) elements, suspense, danger, and plenty of page-turning dramatic developments.
Mr. Ferguson has done a fantastic job of delivering an exciting start to the series, and is another story that I can envision making a really great movie, TV series, or RPG adventure game.
Bring on Book #2: “Guilds & Gallows” so I can continue the adventures…
Happy Reading…

[K.M. Lowe · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a fantastic, action packed, start to the series. I’m not a huge fantasy fan per se, but I got sucked in with this one and now patiently awaiting the release of book 2 this month. 😍

[Kerry Baker · Rating 5 out of 5]

It doesn’t happen very often, but it was the cover of this book that first attracted me to it. It is so striking and in your face, in the best possible way, that there was no way I could move past it without reading it. What I found when I started reading was an intense and gritty story about a character who was having to navigate his way through a touch and unforgiving life.
The story was really well written. It pulls you in without any effort and leaves you thinking about it well after it has finished. As the first book in a new series this shows such potential for what is to come. I am really excited to see where the author takes this next.

[Ben · Rating 2 out of 5]

A relatively straight forward fantasy adventure. Shadows & Secrets is the opening book of the origin story of the author’s Dungeons and Dragons character, Jaryd. I love me some DnD but some odd choices were made with structure - such as defeating the villain 2/3 of the way through then starting a new arc to set up book 2. The dialogue is a little stiff too (even in a DnD world, the 16-year-old character’s way of talking aged them WAY up) and a lot of the children talk like young adults as well. It’s largely edited really well with the exception of the early chapters. I’m not sure if they were a late edition but they are riddled with some really egregious spelling and layout errors that even a basic spellcheck on Word could have clocked. Overall, it’s a short story so the flaws don’t harm it too much, and I did enjoy reading, but I’d struggle to find myself recommending or revisiting.

[Dani · Rating 4 out of 5]

4 stars

In a land rife with magic (Eltara) lies the city of Lisan, where Jaryd, a half-elf orphan, is abandoned on the steps of the School of Forgotten and Unwanted. His life there is not easy, often falling prey to the cruelty and abuse of those who are supposed to care for him. Not letting this dampen his fighting spirit, he takes it upon himself to protect and care for his fellow schoolmates, becoming affectionately dubbed ‘Thief’ as his quick hands procure treats and treasured gifts that the Matron Yanassa and Master Highvale would keep from the children. When unforeseen circumstances leave Jaryd and his good friend Aurele fighting for their lives on the streets of Lisan, they are forced to use all their wits, cunning and of course thievery to survive in a harsh world.

I enjoyed this book so much. It was a gripping and magical read that kept me on the edge of my seat. It really did not take me very long to become so invested in the characters, though I cannot forgive Ferguson for breaking my heart halfway through. I won't spoil anything, but let's just say, I did not see it coming and therefore was not prepared. Broke my heart!

Jaryd is an awesome character; kind and heroic from the get-go, even when treated harshly by those who were supposed to be caring for him. Aurele was badass, and her and Jaryd's bond is so sweet!!

I love love love the fact that this story came from DnD sessions. Having dabbled a bit in DnD in the past, I thought it was such a cool idea that he was able to bring his character to life in this book, taking us through his backstory.

I recommend this to anyone who loves fast-paced, fantasy action. Genuinely can't wait to read the next instalment.

[Tausha Treadway · Rating 5 out of 5]

Shadows & Secrets (Thief Book 1) by Martin Ferguson. This is such a fast paced fantasy adventure that I spent half the night flipping pages. I loved it and can't wait for the second book. It's the story of Jaryd who was left on the steps of The School of Forgotten and Unwanted as a baby. He was taken care of but I use the word care lightly. The Master and Matron did as little as they could get by with but the kids were fed and housed. Jaryd was made fun of and so he learned to be a little thief to take treats to his friends or the kids he wanted to be his friends. They didn't let up on him much but it did make them happy. When Jaryd and his best friend Aurele find themselves on the streets of Lisban all by themselves they have to fight and scratch to stay alive. Surviving on the streets is harder than in the orphanage and they must use every bit of knowledge they have. Jaryd has such a good heart and is truly a good person for the way life has treated him. Aurele is a badass and I loved how she cared about Jaryd. Will they be able to survive the mean streets of Lisban? Read this fast paced fantasy to find out!

[Santana · Rating 5 out of 5]

Shadows and Secrets by Martin Ferguson is a dark YA fantasy that gave me strong D&D vibes right away. When I found out it was actually the backstory of the author’s role-playing character, I fell in love with the book even more.

Jaryd’s story isn’t about being the chosen one—it’s about fighting to survive in a world that wants to forget him. The School of Forgotten and Unwanted was a haunting and memorable setting, and seeing Jaryd grow from a starving orphan into a clever survivor was both sad and inspiring. From a young age, Jaryd knew he was destined for more. He just had to get there. The only one who was there for him was his best friend Aurelle and he would do anything for her. Even after the duo escapes from the structures of the school, they stuck together surviving by any means necessary.

The writing is fast-paced, the world has depth, and the characters pull you in. The pacing is quick but filled to the brim with action, adventure and mystery. This is an amazing start to the series, and I can’t wait for the next book!

[G. Gaynor · Rating 5 out of 5]

Let me start off with saying that I have already pre-ordered Book 2.

I was really worried, reading about how a child was dropped off at an orphanage during a dark and stormy night. It felt like I was on an express ride to Trope City.

But something happened on the way to hell. The train took a turn and the next ting I knew the MC had been liberated from the orphanage though the mechanism under question was both weird and chilling. And just like that, the notion of killer clowns was added to the story and you weren't given any time to argue that such an addition was ridiculous. In fact, these clowns give reason to fear their kind. They might be dressed like jesters, but no one survives their punchline.

Still our MC prevails, slowly but surely forming into an able-bodied and bright cutpurse that's already stolen my interest. Definitely a fan and I'm anxious for May 2025 for the release of the second book!!!

[Francis · Rating 4 out of 5]

Shadows & Secrets is the first book in the Thief series. It is a fantasy series aimed at teenagers that will appeal to fans of DnD-style narratives.

This book seems to be predominantly character backstory, divided into three sections covering different parts of Jaryd’s life. It’s not my favourite structure - I think I would have preferred the first section to be a shorter prologue and/or flashbacks throughout the middle section, and then the ending to be an epilogue with less detail but still setting readers up for the next book. That said, it’s still enjoyable to read!

There are some great characters in and around Jaryd’s life. I particularly like Greash, the goblin! And I’m intrigued by the Book of Circus - I hope we get to learn more about them in later books.

Shadows & Secrets gets four stars from me. I’d recommend it to people who love giving their DnD characters elaborate backstories and readers who enjoy lots of action and adventure.

[Kerry carr · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is the first book in the new series Thief by Martin Ferguson. This author had me hooked with the series Relic Hunters so when I saw this new series I didn't hesitate to pick it up. This is a dark fantasy adventure which is fast paced and captivating from the very beginning.
The authors attention to details and world building really brings the characters to life.
Jaryd had a harsh start to life. When he was abandoned on the steps of an orphanage he finds himself being raised alongside other magical children who have also been left. The school isn't a easy place to survive and as Jaryd struggles to find his place it makes things even harder. As he struggles through life and living on the streets he realises that he needs to survive at any cost.

This is a gripping YA read which is action packed, full of danger, twists and turns and a main character in Jaryd that you can't help but want him to succeed. I read this book in one sitting and I can't wait to read the next one.

[Brandy Jo Rymer · Rating 5 out of 5]

Shadows & Secrets is the first book in the Thief Book series by Martin Ferguson. This book was a thrilling dark fantasy where children have to grow up sooner than they should. Lying and stealing to live are the way of life for the kids in this tale set in a place full of dark mystery and mythical creatures. Every step they take forward, the unwanted children feel that they take, the more life throws at them, making it harder and harder for them to see the positives in life, except for having one another's backs. Our main characters include a half-elf named Jaryd, who is abandoned at birth in front of an orphanage full of other unwanted children that are beaten for misbehavior, like trying to take extra food for their friends who didn't get a meal that day. This book captivated my attention from the very beginning and held it right to the end. A must-read for any fans of mythical fantasies where the lines between who is good and who is evil are blurred.
@Brandy Rymer
08/2025

[Jennifer · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was instantly drawn into Shadows and Secrets—there’s something about Jaryd’s story that really stuck with me. From the moment he was abandoned on the orphanage steps, I felt a pull toward his journey. Watching him grow up in such a harsh world, from the cruel halls of the School of Forgotten and Unwanted to the cold streets of Lisan, I couldn’t help but root for him. He’s clever, flawed, and trying to survive in a world that never gave him a chance.

I especially appreciated how Martin Ferguson writes with both grit and heart. The pacing was fast without feeling rushed, and I found myself staying up late to read “just one more chapter.” If you enjoy fantasy with morally gray characters and emotional depth, this book is definitely worth picking up. I’ll be following the rest of this series for sure.

[Ayla Phipps · Rating 5 out of 5]

Shew. That was a quick one or maybe I just got too caught up in it but before I knew it, I’d reached the end. New to Martin Ferguson here and that was a heck of an introduction. I might have looked calm, for the most part on this rainy Saturday but I was anything but, on the inside, as I dove into this first book of the Thief series. Adventure, mystery, suspense, and some wait what let me reread that moments await in the world of Eltara and it all starts with a long-hooded figure standing in the rain.
I don’t want to ruin anything as this isn’t a very long book but just be ready to be fully transported to the city of Lisan and those who inhabit it. I’m still a little stunned since finishing as I process before diving into book two, Guild and Gallows. I cannot wait much less imagine what will happen next in this series but I’m ready to find out. I’ll see you there.

[Tammy Turner · Rating 5 out of 5]

Shadows and Secrets by Martin Ferguson is book one in the Thief series. The story follows Jayrd, a half-elf, who is left on the steps on an orphanage as an infant. Jaryd struggles to adjust to life in the orphanage and grows up being punished regularly and severely. When Jayrd is 10, the opportunity to escape, he takes it along with the friends he made. Unable to support themselves, the children become children of the streets, being homeless and having to steal for food. When his closest friend is captured and sold into slavery, he enlists the help of another secret group to help free her. I love this story. Jaryd is extremely street smart and clever and this book is full of action from the start. Jaryd has the biggest heart of any thief you would ever want to meet. This makes him extremely likeable and relatable. I can’t to read the next book in the series.

[Shannen · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was so excited to pick up this book because the Relic Hunters Series by the same author was one of my absolute favorites! Once I saw the cover of this one, I knew I was in for an adventure, and the synopsis solidified it. I dove right in and found myself on a fast-paced thrill ride with well-developed characters. While it is a pretty quick YA read, it compelled me to finish from the moment I started. I wasn’t able to put it down the entire time! I can’t stop thinking about how the author fit such an intricate plot into such a short story. It made me feel like I was reading an iceberg with so much more beneath the surface. I may be (way) older than the target audience, but Martin Ferguson is one author I refuse to pass up. If you’re looking for a gritty dark fantasy that is full of action, you’ve come to the right place by picking up Shadows & Secrets!

[Bobbi Wagner · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is the first book in this series that I enjoyed reading. The author’s use of details made the story full of action and realistic. This is a great start to the series and I look forward to seeing what is next. This is a well written story about Jaryd and his struggles to find a place in this world. He is a character that has been abandoned and has had to learn to steal to survive. What happens on his journey to find himself is something you will want to see. He is a strong, determined character and my favorite of the story. I enjoyed watching his growth throughout which made his story easy to read. This is a fast paced story that is engaging and hard to put down. This is one you don’t want to miss out on. This is a great story and I highly recommend it

[Emma · Rating 5 out of 5]

A fantastic dark fantasy story with a protagonist with a heart of gold, and a penchant for stealing gold too. It's not afraid to get dark or gritty; from street fights that result in course changing injuries, to allusions to enslavement; but with a persistant tone of hope and optimism through it all. What I loved most about this was the sincere and genuine bonds of care between the characters, I believed that Jayrd and Aurele would follow each other to the ends of the earth and beyond it - purely because they had built such a bond. There is a large cast of background characters and they all feel distinct from each other, it's a world I could step into easily. I'll be back to read this one again, it really feels like the story is just beginning.

[Jennifer Reimer · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book was very intriguing to read and kept me hooked right from page one to the end. This story was easy to follow and right to the point. It’s a dark fantasy filled with suspense, drama, magical, survival, emotional and so much that it was hard to put it down. Jaryd is the underdog that fights for what he needs and for those around him. his fight for survival and meaning really brings this story to life and excitement for having him win. It was very descriptive that it really felt like you were right there along for the ride and understanding everything. This was a great first book to this series and can’t wait to dive into the rest.

[Finn Cunningham · Rating 5 out of 5]

Secrets and Shadows is book 1 of the "Thief" series by Martin Ferguson. Words cannot express how excited I was to see this author again! Ive reread Relic Hunters 3 times, so as soon as I caught wind of this I HAD to get my hands on it! When I tell you I absolutely devoured this in one sitting, I mean i had this finished in just a few hours, I was just so excited! This book is the start of something incredible, and im absolutely ecstatic to see more from this author! Ive already got the next book, and i genuinely cannot wait to get into it! I have loved Martin's work for a long time, I really cannot recommend him any more or any higher. Trust me when I say, you DONT want to miss out on this!

[Jessica Godwin · Rating 5 out of 5]

This fast-paced fantasy adventure is a great introduction to the promising new Thief series. Abandoned as an infant at "The School of Forgotten and Unwanted," Jaryd is a clever, morally gray character at the heart of the story. The book follows his journey from the harsh orphanage to the treacherous streets of Lassan, where he and his close friend Aurele must use their wits to stay alive. It was easy to root for Jaryd, whose backstory and struggle to survive in a world that gave him nothing created a compelling and emotionally deep character. This was a short read I couldn't put down, and I'm excited for the next book in the series.

[Jennifer Smith · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love fantasy books especially ones that have elves and half elves and assorted characters like in Dungeons and Dragons. I have enjoyed this book and can't wait to read the next one. Jaryd and Aurele are my favorite characters so far. To read what happened to them and where they are now in life is amazing. This book will take you on a journey from beginning to end and leave you wanting more. There is action in this book and if you want to know what happens will just have to read it for yourself. It is well worth the read.

[Amber Peake · Rating 5 out of 5]

Shadows and Secrets by Martin Ferguson is the first book in a series called Thief. This is a coming-of-age fantasy book. There is magic and mystery. I really enjoyed this book. The author brings to life Jaryd’s world and makes you feel for this poor kid who is orphaned. You learn about him and his friends and their fight for survival. The trials Jaryd goes through and the wonderful heart he keeps through it all just makes you love him more. I’m starting the second book and can’t wait to see what happens! If you read this book, you won’t regret it.

[Lisa · Rating 4 out of 5]

I ended up loving this book. It has a very slow beginning and middle telling of Jaryd’s early life. Near the end the story and action really picked up which kept me turning pages and not wanting to put my book down. We do get a lot of insight into Jaryd's character and can figure out what he will do in most situations. Overall I liked this better than expected and will give the next one a go. As per the series name it does have a soft ending. A lot of storylines were finished but a new one opened to peak your curiosity.

[Elizabeth · Rating 5 out of 5]

Shadows And Secrets is not the type of book I would normally read but am so so glad I did. The cover art made me curious and interested. The story developed at the perfect pace, slowing introducing us to the characters and building up suspense.. It gave me some Aladdin vibes for a bit but I’m glad it developed past that. I hope the next book cover art has more characters. I’m curious if the way I’m envisioning the half breeds is how the author intends. Jaryd has such a hard life but he remains so sweet and loyal. I am really looking forward to the next book.

[Katie Turner · Rating 4 out of 5]

I absolutely enjoyed Shadows & Secrets by Martin Ferguson, Book One to the Thief series. This was definitely my cup of tea, and I had a feeling it would be from the first page. Darling little Jaryd doesn't deserve the cards he is dealt. But he learns how to live among the shadows, and fight what is born from within them. But not alone. He has his friend Aurelle by his side. And he will do anything to keep her safe. I was absolutely pulled in by the incredible detail in so few pages, and I am ready for book two!

[Rita White · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is the first book in a new series called Thief. It is a action packed dark fantasy with survival, hard knock lives, orphans, it's gritty, adventure, secrets, lies, stealing to survive, danger, and so much more. I was drawn to this book from the first chapter. It's a short, fast read, and all of the characters are well written. The author puts you right in the middle of the chaos, and you feel like you are in this world with them. I can't wait to read book number two. OH, and let's talk about this cover! Magnificent!!!

[Charlisa Wahtomy-Alba · Rating 4 out of 5]

I found that this book was a quick read that had good characters and good world building. Jaryd was orphaned and then abandoned at the School of Forgotten and Unwanted. He had to learn how to be savvy and street smart in the city of Lisan or starve. Jaryd is definitely a character worth rooting for as his journey of struggling to survive unfolds. This is the first book I have read by this author and I give it a solid 4.5 out of 5 stars. I am definitely past the age of what the target audience is but even so the story was compelling.

[Chris · Rating 4 out of 5]

A Raw, Honest Fantasy Adventure

I liked how real Jaryd felt. He’s not perfect, but you understand why he makes the choices he does. The world is harsh, and it was good to see how he used his skills to survive. The magic and mystery made it even better. Some parts were a little dark, but that just made it feel more real. If you like stories about outsiders finding their strength, this one’s for you.

[Chell Conner · Rating 5 out of 5]

A young half elf is abandoned at birth on an orphan’s school step and a maid finds him that night to bring him in. Later on no matter how much he and the other children who aren’t able to be adopted into a family, escape when a fire breaks out in what was once home now a prison. It goes through his life and tells of how he becomes part of the thieves guild after taking down the master and matron, while trying to search for the meaning of family.

5⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️