Guilds & Gallows

Thief #2

by Martin Ferguson

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

Surviving both his torturous upbringing in the School of Forgotten and Unwanted and living on the streets of the city’s Rundowns, Jaryd and his lifelong friend Aurele were approached by the Lisan Thieves Guild. Challenged and tested by the Guild, Jaryd and Aurele are now inducted as formal members.
This is not the end of their trials though, for now they must earn their place amongst the rogues and thieves, the hangman’s noose waiting for any who fail…
_____________________________

'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 ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

189 pages, Kindle Edition

Published May 17, 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 – 5 stars

I recently wrapped up my reading of the first instalment in the captivating Thief series, titled Shadows & Secrets, which completely captivated me. Eager to see where the story would take me next, I immediately plunged into the second book, Guilds & Gallows. This sequel picks up seamlessly from the thrilling climax of the first book, and it remarkably exceeds my expectations, if that's even imaginable. The tension and stakes have escalated dramatically.

Guilds & Gallows unveils a shadowy underworld that is both darker and more intricate than its predecessor. The narrative is infused with powerful elements of magic, hidden truths, and the harsh realities of pain and misfortune. It’s a high-stakes epic fantasy adventure that immerses readers in a raw, fast-paced, and intense atmosphere. Every page is filled with heart-pounding thrills, enigmatic mysteries, a motley crew of thieves, unwavering loyalty, and dynamic friendships. Amid the chaos and calamity, the story is also laced with a clever touch of dark humour that provides a delightful counterbalance.

The relationship between Jaryd and Aurelle is tested like never before as they find themselves bound to the formidable Lisan Thieves Guild. This treacherous environment is fraught with peril, where navigating the sinister forces that lurk in the shadows becomes not just a challenge but a matter of survival. The depth of their character development and the evolution of their bond amidst such adversity is both compelling and poignant.

I can hardly contain my excitement for the next instalment, Outlaws & Outlanders! The anticipation is palpable, and I can’t wait to see what new adventures and trials await these intriguing characters.

[K.M. Lowe · Rating 5 out of 5]

Book 2 of the series follows on directly from book 1… and boy what a ride it is. This book kept me in the edge of my seat. Jaryd built himself up, got to the top of his game, only to fall at the last hurdle. This book demonstrates how things can change so quickly, and for Jaryd and Aurelle and the gang grave changes happened.
I look forward to this story continuing in book 3. It’s perfect for any dark fantasy lovers.

[Ben · Rating 1 out of 5]

This is part two of the backstory of Jaryd, the author’s Dungeons and Dragons character. A lot of the problems with the first book are present here: melodrama, a few editing errors, and wooden dialogue filled with exposition. However, what were the stronger parts of the first book, the fantasy setting and story attached to it, are weaker here and the book suffers without as cohesive a narrative as the first Thief book told. The ending was the highlight for me, and it sets up a few pieces that do seem exciting for book three and beyond, but for me this is where my journey with this series ends.

[Stephanie Runyon · Rating 5 out of 5]

Jaryd and Aurele have been living on the streets of Lisan since their childhood at the School of Forgotten and Unwanted. They stole from people to survive. Their successful ventures were seen by the Guild of Thieves, who have now recruited them. Alongside two other recruits, Mason and Kindling, the pair now have a roof over their heads, food, and payment that were reliant on their earnings. However, Guildmaster Gaelan sets boundaries for their work. They were forbidden from picking pockets, avoiding their rivals, and to not take on the three leading houses of Hellesdon, Thorpe, and Mattishall.

Jaryd is ambitious and the Countess Vyrel Uriel, the right hand of Gaelan, has taken an interest in the young half-elf. She attempts to train Jaryd in the arcane arts but Jaryd fails miserably. However, Jaryd proves his fighting ability by saving Gaelan when a banished wizard tries to kill the countess and guildmaster by using Necromancy. Jaryd is honored by Gaelan giving him his rapier. Unfortunately, Jaryd makes several mistakes that bring attention to his identity. Aurele asks him when they were going to travel the world like they had originally planned. Jaryd’s response of “just a few more jobs” disappoints her.

This is a fantasy story full of magic, adventure, and focuses primarily on Jaryd’s assimilation to the Guild of Thieves. His intense training for combat with a hellion and an assassin hone his abilities. Unfortunately, his pride and desperation to rise in ranks, causes the Guild to garner the focus of rivals like the Book of Circus. The rival group is infinitely stronger than anyone, capable of wielding the arcane and exceptionally skilled in combat. Their members outnumber the Guild of Thieves. Several rewards are lost when the Book of the Circus appears.

The characters are well-developed and they each have distinct personalities. Tension is built as everyone implies that Jaryd and Aurele are a couple. Sadly, the divide between them starts to grow. It is easy to relate to Aurele’s disappointment and Jaryd’s utter remorse when he makes a mistake in a major job. Pride causes mistakes that cause deadly consequences, and Gaelan is quick to punish instead of praise.

The unpredictable plot has several twists that I was surprised by. The deadly Book of the Circus has a keen interest in Jaryd, especially after they mention something he had aided them with. Learning the truth about a certain bard reveals what caused the rivalry with Jaryd. This is an emotionally charged fantasy story that lays a great foundation for the series. I rate Guild and Gallows a solid five stars. I am eager to read the next book, as I can see multiple directions that stem from the cliffhanger ending in this book. Because of the dark nature of the story, which includes death, torture, and theft, I recommend this book for mature readers.

[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. There are many legends and stories to be told in the lands of Eltara. One such story, that of the young half-elf Jaryd, continues...

Guilds & Gallows is the second book in the Thief series by Martin Ferguson. This is an epic young adult action-adventure fantasy with wonderful world-building, intriguing characters, mystery, gritty developments, some darker tones, suspense, danger, thieves & heist, danger, dramatic developments, struggles, and high stakes.
Guilds & Gallows follows on from where we left off in Book #1, so if you haven’t read ‘Shadows & Secrets’ yet I highly recommend that you do as there is lots of important information and storyline there that I think you should know in order to fully appreciate this book, and the (developing) series as a whole.
Mr. Ferguson has done a fantastic job of delivering another exciting instalment in the series, and has me on tenterhooks waiting to continue the story in Book #3.
As mentioned before, this book/series is another that I can envision making a really great movie, TV program, or RPG adventure game.
Bring on Book #3: “Outlaws & Outlanders”- which really can’t come quickly enough because I really need to find out what happens in this continuing adventure…
Happy Reading…

[Torya · Rating 5 out of 5]

Guilds & Gallows pulled me in right away and never let go. Jaryd’s story continues with all the grit, danger, and emotional weight that made the first book so strong, only this time the stakes feel even higher. Watching him and Aurele get tested by the Lisan Thieves Guild kept me on edge the whole time, because in this world one wrong move really can mean the noose. That constant sense of tension made the story impossible to put down.

What really stood out to me was how real the bond between Jaryd and Aurele felt. Their loyalty and trust are pushed to the limit in ways that had me genuinely worried for them. It made every victory, every small success, that much more satisfying. The worldbuilding is also fantastic—gritty and atmospheric, with the thieves’ underworld brought to life in sharp detail.

The pacing is tight, every chapter building toward something bigger, and there are just enough twists to keep you guessing without ever feeling overloaded. Martin Ferguson balances action and character development so well, giving us both the thrill of the heists and fights along with the emotional depth of Jaryd’s journey.

This was a thrilling, immersive read and an incredible continuation of the series. It left me eager for the next installment and even more invested in Jaryd’s path.

[Dani · Rating 4 out of 5]

4 stars

OMG. OMG. OMG. I was not prepared for that ending. I'm still reeling.

So this book picks up after the end of Shadows and Secrets, and Jaryd and Aurele, Mason, and Kindling are now members of the thieves guild. They spend time learning from guild members who are their specific tutors. Jaryd himself ends up taking lessons from Countess Vytel Uriel, who believes he has untapped magical potential. This, however, does not go as planned, with Jaryd seeming not to have any magical inclination. Jaryd and his friends, however, do prove themselves and are treated fondly amongst the ranks of the thieves guild. Problems arise, however, when Jaryd feels like he finally belongs, but Aurele dreams of leaving and starting an adventure together, testing their ‘where you go, I go” promise.

I was seriously not prepared for this. Ferguson, I swear, some warning next time, my heart cannot take this! Honestly, another great instalment, I thoroughly enjoyed this, even if it did trample on my heart several times. I can't wait to read the next book. I have so many burning questions that need answering!

I would recommend this to anyone who likes fantasy, action, and found family-type stories. Stories where actions have consequences and no one is safe.

[Emma · Rating 5 out of 5]

A sequel that builds on all that was previously established in book 1 and makes it bigger and better! Jaryd really gets his time to shine, to fail, and to grow into his own. It's a story that really makes you feel the luck and skill that thieves rely upon, each test and chapter raises the stakes. Jayrd is an eager protagonist who rises to the challenge, though he doesn't always succeed- or succeed how he envisioned he might - the world retains it's slightly unfair edge but still a persistent optimism prevails through the protagonist and all the very enjoyable bonds he has with the other characters. The cast expands even further but they are all still distinct, and each add a little hint at what else the wider world could be up to. Their interactions with Jaryd are my personal favourite parts, Jayrd has enough charisma and humour to navigate all conversations entertainingly - from his oldest friend Aurele, to a certain bardic rival, to a pair of dwarf brothers who just want to chase him with hammers!
I'll def be back to read this one again soon, and it's set up for the sequel is exciting, if a little heartbreaking.

[Shannen · Rating 5 out of 5]

Since I really enjoyed a previous series by Martin Ferguson, I didn’t hesitate to pick up this one. Boy am I so glad I didn’t! If you haven’t read the first book, Shadows & Secrets, now would be the time to dive into it. Guilds & Gallows jumps in right where we left off, so skipping it would not only deprive you of a magnificent story, I think it would lead to quite a bit of confusion. From the very first page, the story throws you into a gritty, dangerous world that feels both fresh and familiar in the best way. Jaryd and Aurele are back and developing with every turn of the page. The Lisan Thieves Guild is such a cool concept, and the initiation trials had me flipping pages way too late at night. Ferguson really knows how to build tension and keep the stakes high! With death hanging over every misstep, the suspense is absolutely gripping. The world-building is rich without being overwhelming, and the characters feel real, flawed, and worth rooting for. If you like underdog stories with a sharp edge and a bit of a dark twist, this one’s for you. Can’t wait to see where the series goes next!

[Roxsanne Lesieur · Rating 5 out of 5]

Jaryd returns and has successfully passed all of his tests and trials to become a member of the Lisan Thieves Guild along with Aurele, his fellow orphan from the School of Forgotten and Unwanted, which they escaped and lived a life of petty thievery and poverty in the Rundowns.

As they learn what the life of a member of this Guild is and what they have let themselves in for and although they are frustrated, especially Jaryd, they learn that it isn't all bad, they have a roof over their heads, they have access to food and safety and most importantly, they are safer than before.

There are a lot of other opportunities within the Guild and the two youngsters begin to train in these specialities, as well as weapons and following the path of a trainee, but the trials and tribulations are not finished, they still have to cement their places in this world, but will they be able to do this and avoid the gallows which wait for anyone who lies or crosses the Guild? This is a great continuation to this series where there is danger, guilds and gallows throughout.

[Tausha Treadway · Rating 5 out of 5]

Guilds & Gallows (Thief Book) by Martin Ferguson. This is the 2nd book and it picks up right where Shadows and Secrets leaves off. I highly recommend reading the 1st book to get a better understanding of the characters and story line. It the continuing story of where Jaryd, Aurele, Mason and Kindling are all now members of the thieves guild. They all have their own personal tutors and Jaryd has chosen to take lessons from Countess Vytel Uriel who believes Jaryd has untapped magical potential. Jaryd tries out his magic potential and its not working out as well as they thought. When Aurele and Jaryd alliance is put to the test will they survive? Aurele is wanting to spread her wings and try to leave but Jaryd is quite happy where he is. Between the darkness, trials, tribulations and fake friendships will Jaryd and Aurele survive this mission. This is a fast paced fantasy great for late aged teens but even this 55 year old lady immensely enjoyed it.

[Kerry carr · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is the second book in the Thief series. I do highly recommend reading the first book as this follows on straight from that one so you would miss out if you don't read it. This is an amazing fantasy adventure from an author who has a very creative imagination which brings the world's and characters to life.
We are back with Jaryd and Aurele. They have escaped their traumatic childhood and now find themselves on the street. After they escape they find themselves being picked up by a Thieves Guild.
The pair of them go through so many trials and test before they are accepted but little do they know that even though they are part of the Guild their tests aren't over yet and the ones they are going to face will be their most dangerous ones yet. Now they are fighting for each other and for survival but will these challenges finally prove to much?

This is an action packed YA adventure which was gripping from beginning to end. I can't wait to see what happens next.

[Bobbi Wagner · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is the second book in this series that I enjoyed reading. I highly suggest reading the previous book to help with your enjoyment of this author. This is a story about Jaryd and Aurele. They were approached by the thieves guild to join them. They are put through trials before they are inducted but what they don’t realize is that their trials are not done yet. I enjoyed this author’s creative characters and attention to details that make this story hard to put down. Jaryd and Aurele are connectable and engaging. I enjoyed watching the growth of their journey throughout. This is a fast paced, hard to put down and one you don’t want to miss. This is a great story which I highly recommend.

[Jennifer · Rating 5 out of 5]

I had a great time with this book. From the start, I was hooked by Jaryd and Aurele’s story—two friends who’ve already been through so much and still find themselves tested again in the Lisan Thieves Guild. I felt for them right away, and it made me want to see them succeed even more.

The trials and challenges they face kept me on edge the whole way through. I really liked the mix of danger and loyalty, and the way their friendship held strong even when everything around them was uncertain. The world is gritty, tense, and full of shadows, which made it easy to get pulled into.

For me, this was one of those books where I just wanted to keep turning the pages to see what would happen next. I’m already excited to see where the series goes from here.

[Elizabeth · Rating 5 out of 5]

I don’t normally make a habit of reading fantasy series, but the Thief series in really capturing me. Guilds & Gallows picks up where the first book left off, and shouldn’t be read as a stand alone book. This book continues following Jaryd and Aurele after they joined the Thieves Guild.
The book is filled with suspense as the characters continue to get themselves into some tight spots. It got a little weird for a bit with zombies and such, but overall, is such a good story. Poor Jaryd has so much loss in his life. Every time he catches a break its short lived and we wait for the other shoe to fall. This book has such a cliff hanger ending and leaves the reader really wondering about Jaryd’s parents and where he comes from.

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

Aurele and Jaryd's friendship is being tested as never before. This book continues on from Shadow's and Secrets so it is beneficial to read that before continuing on. After being approached, and then tested by the Lisan Thieves Guild they are inducted as official members. While that seems to be a good thing they must earn their place or face the hangman noose. Will they continue working together as a team? Or is it going to be every man for himself? The author did a great job keeping the momentum going from the first book into this one. As Jaryd and Aurele's world continues to expand there are more things, more people out there who will try to turn them against one another. I look forward to seeing these two continue to navigate the trials ahead and how they maintain their tight bond.

[Jacobus Clement · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow

Guilds & Gallows is a thrilling and gritty continuation of the Thief series that grabs you from the first page and doesn’t let go. Martin Ferguson delivers a vivid world of danger, intrigue, and high-stakes challenges as Jaryd and Aurele fight to prove themselves in the ruthless Lisan Thieves Guild. The action is fast-paced, the atmosphere richly immersive, and the characters so well-crafted that you can’t help but root for them. I especially loved how Jaryd’s tough past fuels his determination, making every triumph feel hard-earned. A must-read for fans of dark, character-driven fantasy filled with tension and heart.

[Helen Sucher · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the second book in the Thief series by Martin Ferguson. Jaryd and Aurele’s journey from running the streets of Lisan to joining the dangerous ranks of the Thieves Guild is full of danger, suspense, struggles, and high stakes. Failure in this world doesn’t just mean exile, but death.

“Guilds & Gallows” follows on from where the first book in the Thief series by Martin Ferguson left off, so I highly recommend reading Book #1 “Shadows & Secrets” to get a grounding of important background information and storylines to fully appreciate this book, and the series.

I can’t wait to read the next exciting instalment in Book #3 – “Outlaws & Outlanders”!!

[Kerry Baker · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is a brilliant follow up to the first and it was just as exciting read. I was pulled straight back into this world and the characters and I loved seeing how they developed further and I still wanted to know even more about them.
I found this book to be fast-paced and gripping from start to finish. It picks up from where book one leaves off, so I would definitely recommend reading them in order. This author does a great job of creating such fantastic worlds. Every book I have read from him is just as good as this one. I cannot wait to see what is in store for the characters in book 3.

[Ayla Phipps · Rating 5 out of 5]

Hehe. Finally. Book two in the Thief series picks up where book one ended and if you haven’t read it yet then please do so before reading this one as it helps to fully immerse into the world of Eltara, with Jaryd and Aurele.
The emotions never stop, and I was kept on high alert from beginning to end as Jaryd and Aurele walked the fine edge of a blade to stay out of a noose. Danger and desperation are constant companions as their bonds are tested at every turn. Made formal members of the Lisan Thieves Guild there is never a dull moment. Now enough from me I am addicted to these quick, action-packed reads that keep you turning the pages. On to book three, Outlaws & Outlanders.

[Santana · Rating 5 out of 5]

Guilds & Gallows is the second book in Martin Ferguson’s Thief series, and it’s even darker and more intense than the first. It starts immediately after the first book in the series so if you have not read it yet, I highly suggest that you do.

Jaryd and Aurelle face the ruthless Lisan Thieves Guild, and the tension had me on edge the whole way through.The bond between them felt real and raw, making every win and loss hit harder. The gritty world-building pulled me right in, and once again I got strong D&D vibes that made it even more exciting.

Fast-paced, full of danger and twists! This was a fantastic sequel, and I can’t wait for book three.

[Angela · Rating 4 out of 5]

I was thoroughly surprised by the unpredictable plot, which had numerous twists that kept me on the edge of my seat. This emotionally charged fantasy story expertly lays the groundwork for the rest of the series, introducing a richly detailed world that is both fascinating and unsettling. The characters are multidimensional and boast unique personalities, making them relatable and easy to root for. The cliffhanger ending has left me eagerly anticipating the next installment, as I can envision several possible directions the story might take. However, due to the story's dark themes, including death, torture, and theft, I would only recommend this book to mature readers.

[Jessica Godwin · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the thrilling second book in the Thief series, picking up right where the first installment, Shadows & Secrets, left off. This book thrusts Jaryd and his companions into the dark and gritty world of a thieves guild. As a coming-of-age fantasy, the story follows Jaryd's training and his attempts to prove himself among the guild's assassins and thieves. I love the vivid world-building and the well-developed and compelling characters. It's makes for an enjoyable read that makes you feel like your right there with the characters. This is a fast-paced story with a gripping plot filled with action, clever twists and turns that made it hard to put down.

[Tammy Turner · Rating 5 out of 5]

Guilds and Gallows by Martin Ferguson is book two in the Thief series. This story picks up right where book one leaves off. Our hero, Jaryd, completes his training with the Thieves Guild and needs to prove himself among the thieves and assassins of the Guild. I love this series. The characters are rich and well-developed, and Mr. Ferguson takes you into the dark and gritty world of the Guild, making you feel like you are right there with Jaryd. This is a fast-paced, action-packed story that you will be unable to put down.

[Ash Bash · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was an exciting book to read. Jaryd and Aurele are the stars of this book, and they are working towards earning t physicalheir spot in the Guild! This book reveals how a person's past personal trauma in the midst of tests of physical and mental strength realistically is! It was tough reading this book after not reading the first one. Between Jaryd's tough past and both of their struggles with the rough circumstances facing them turn after them, you are left in suspense and by the end are left needing more!

[Dawn Daughenbaugh · Rating 4 out of 5]

4 Stars
Guilds & Gallows (Thief Book 2) By Martin Ferguson

Guilds &Gallows is the second book in the Thief Series . This is a Teen/ YA Fantasy that is aimed for middle school aged children 12-18 but adults can enjoy reading this book to. Get ready to be taken on quite the adventure as Jaryd and Aurele fight to prove themselves. This is an fast paced story that I highly recommend reading to find out what happens next. I can’t wait to read more from this Author.

[Katie Burgess · Rating 4 out of 5]

Guilds and Gallows is a gritty, fast-paced fantasy with a cool mix of action, secrets, and shady guild politics. The main character is easy to root for, and the world feels dark and dangerous in the best way. Some parts could’ve been fleshed out a bit more, but overall it kept me hooked from start to finish. If you like fantasy with a darker edge and plenty of twists, this one’s worth checking out.

[Amber Peake · Rating 5 out of 5]

The second book in the Thief series Guilds and Gallows takes you on the next chapter of young Jaryd’s life. In this one Jaryd is getting more comfortable in his role in the Guild of Thieves. There are more twists and turns and at the end a very unexpected twist I was not expecting. Can’t wait for the next book to see what happens. Love these books. They are easy to read keep you page turning and wanting more.

[Rita White · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is the 2nd book in this series, and I highly recommend reading the 1st book first. It will give you a lot of background for this book. This carries on with Jared and Aurelle, where they join the group of the Lisan Thieves Guild. This group is an underworld of trails and darkness they are not used to. The book kept me engaged and turned the pages to see what would happen. I can’t wait for the next book to come out to see what happens. If you have not picked up these books, you need to!

[Finn Cunningham · Rating 5 out of 5]

Guilds and Gallows is book two of the "Thief" series by the beloved Martin Ferguson. I have genuinely yet to find a single book by this man that hasn't been absolutely incredible, blowing expectations out of the water every single time. This book is truly no exception, full of thrills, characters you will adore, incredible world building, and of course action! I am highly HIGHLY looking forward to the next book!!