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Company of Rogues #4
A Thief's Blood: A totally gripping historical crime thriller
'Flynt is as bold and ruthless a killer-agent as James Bond, and even more resourceful' Scotsman A city on the brink of civil war. A madman pulling the strings.
A family is found butchered in a dismal room in Whitechapel. Not even the small children are left alive.
Most of the authorities pay scant attention, except for Thieftaker General Jonathan Wild. Intrigued by this development, Colonel Nathaniel Charters tasks his most trusted operative, Jonas Flynt, with discovering why.
When another family is murdered just as brutally, Flynt uncovers evidence of a simmering conflict between rival gangs, with Wild seemingly desperate to keep a lid on the slaughter.
The question for Flynt is how deep is his new friend the Admiral, a gang leader, involved, and is he capable of killing innocents? Or is there someone else in London, more dangerous and more deranged, with blood on their hands?
A scintillating serial killer thriller set amidst the dirt and grime of Georgian London, the next thrilling instalment in the McIlvanney longlisted Company of Rogues series. Praise for A Thief's Blood
A Glasgow Times Book of 2024
'Skelton has the storyteller's essential the ability to lead you on, ever eager to know what happens next' Yorkshire Post
'Skelton's eighteenth-century London is, as always, exquisitely rendered and thoroughly immersive .... In a solidly-plotted historical thriller with danger lurking around every corner and intrigue brewing from the lowest dungheap to the highest palace in the land, the realisation that these murders are inflaming existing rivalries to the point where an epic confrontation is almost unavoidable raises the stakes even further. There's no sign here that the dark and brooding Jonas Flynt's adventures are running out of steam yet' Herald
A family is found butchered in a dismal room in Whitechapel. Not even the small children are left alive.
Most of the authorities pay scant attention, except for Thieftaker General Jonathan Wild. Intrigued by this development, Colonel Nathaniel Charters tasks his most trusted operative, Jonas Flynt, with discovering why.
When another family is murdered just as brutally, Flynt uncovers evidence of a simmering conflict between rival gangs, with Wild seemingly desperate to keep a lid on the slaughter.
The question for Flynt is how deep is his new friend the Admiral, a gang leader, involved, and is he capable of killing innocents? Or is there someone else in London, more dangerous and more deranged, with blood on their hands?
A scintillating serial killer thriller set amidst the dirt and grime of Georgian London, the next thrilling instalment in the McIlvanney longlisted Company of Rogues series. Praise for A Thief's Blood
A Glasgow Times Book of 2024
'Skelton has the storyteller's essential the ability to lead you on, ever eager to know what happens next' Yorkshire Post
'Skelton's eighteenth-century London is, as always, exquisitely rendered and thoroughly immersive .... In a solidly-plotted historical thriller with danger lurking around every corner and intrigue brewing from the lowest dungheap to the highest palace in the land, the realisation that these murders are inflaming existing rivalries to the point where an epic confrontation is almost unavoidable raises the stakes even further. There's no sign here that the dark and brooding Jonas Flynt's adventures are running out of steam yet' Herald
352 pages, Paperback
Published June 5, 2025
About the author
Douglas Skelton
44 books148 followersDouglas has been a shelf stacker, bank clerk, tax officer, factory worker, advertising salesperson, taxi driver (for two days), wine waiter (for two hours), journalist and criminal investigator. His early books were all in true crime or criminal history but now he writes fiction, beginning with the Davie McCall series. The final book in the series, OPEN WOUNDS, has been longlisted for the McIlvanney Prize 2016, alongside such authors as Ian Rankin, Val McDermid, Lin Anderson, Doug Johnstone and James Oswald.
His next book is THE DEAD DON'T BOOGIE, which will kick off a new series.
His next book is THE DEAD DON'T BOOGIE, which will kick off a new series.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 36 reviews
April 13, 2026
**Read 4.5 STARS!**
This very exciting historical adventure is the 4th volume of the remarkable "Company of Rogues" series.
At the end of the book you'll notice Historical Notes, where some historical and personal details concerning this tale are expertly explained.
The author's storytelling is superb, all characters are very believable and lifelike, and also the hostile atmosphere and lethal politics during the reign of King George I come splendidly off the pages.
The book starts off with a prologue set in January 1718, when a family is brutally butchered to death, the father in the employment of the Admiral, by a monster of a killer.
The main story is set during the year of 1718 and we find our protagonist, Jonas Flint, and his boss and employer Spymaster Colonel Nathaniel Charters, in turmoil because of this horrendous murderous action, and especially when another family is killed, the father in employment of the Thieftaker General, in exactly similar circumstances, and alarm bells will start ringing when fingers are pointing towards the Admiral and his adversary the Thieftaker General Wild, until a final confrontation will bring the ultimate solution to this historical adventure.
What is to follow is an eventful historical adventure, full with political intrigue and conspiracy, in particular and organisation called the Fellowship, an organisation that will do anything in order to gain the power and thus the upper hand in businesses everywhere, and all this is brought to us in a most thrilling fashion by the author.
Highly recommended, for this is another excellent addition to this sublime series, and that's why I like to call this episode: "A Great Thief's Bloodletting"!
This very exciting historical adventure is the 4th volume of the remarkable "Company of Rogues" series.
At the end of the book you'll notice Historical Notes, where some historical and personal details concerning this tale are expertly explained.
The author's storytelling is superb, all characters are very believable and lifelike, and also the hostile atmosphere and lethal politics during the reign of King George I come splendidly off the pages.
The book starts off with a prologue set in January 1718, when a family is brutally butchered to death, the father in the employment of the Admiral, by a monster of a killer.
The main story is set during the year of 1718 and we find our protagonist, Jonas Flint, and his boss and employer Spymaster Colonel Nathaniel Charters, in turmoil because of this horrendous murderous action, and especially when another family is killed, the father in employment of the Thieftaker General, in exactly similar circumstances, and alarm bells will start ringing when fingers are pointing towards the Admiral and his adversary the Thieftaker General Wild, until a final confrontation will bring the ultimate solution to this historical adventure.
What is to follow is an eventful historical adventure, full with political intrigue and conspiracy, in particular and organisation called the Fellowship, an organisation that will do anything in order to gain the power and thus the upper hand in businesses everywhere, and all this is brought to us in a most thrilling fashion by the author.
Highly recommended, for this is another excellent addition to this sublime series, and that's why I like to call this episode: "A Great Thief's Bloodletting"!
November 16, 2024
Company of Rogues—once more into the fray!
Captain Jonas Flynt is once again caught up in Colonel Nathaniel Charters’ Company of Rogues business.
This time a depraved murderer is slashing his way across families in the Rookeries. Whole families including children have been brutally murdered. Dubbed the Whitechapel Horror by the broadsheets, denizens of these places are angry, fearful and ready to riot. A line has been crossed.
Flynt is fearful for his loved ones (not that he’ll admit that!) like Belle St. Clare who owns a Pleasure House at Covent Gardens.
For Charters the deaths are personal. He is convinced they're the work of a man he’d sought on the eve of the battle at Malplaquet in Flanders, one Nimrod Boone. Boone was supposedly dead. Now Charters is questioning this. He wants Jonas to investigate that and the appearance of Monsieur Lombre, another dangerous character.
Rumblings between warring factions in the Rookeries are just below the surface. Jonathan Wild and Blueskin Blake make their presence felt. A highly volatile situation.
The deaths are personal too for the Admiral, a ex-midshipman who ruthlessly dictates illegal activities at the docklands and on the river. He’s concerned as well about the passions running high in the area.
Daniel Defoe, journalist and sometime scribbler of treatise and short works has been writing about a Paladin in the rookeries. Jonas feels a target on his back. Defoe’s newspaper articles need to stop.
Another dark and suspenseful historical mystery from Skelton!
A Canelo ARC via NetGalley.
Many thanks to the author and publisher.
Captain Jonas Flynt is once again caught up in Colonel Nathaniel Charters’ Company of Rogues business.
This time a depraved murderer is slashing his way across families in the Rookeries. Whole families including children have been brutally murdered. Dubbed the Whitechapel Horror by the broadsheets, denizens of these places are angry, fearful and ready to riot. A line has been crossed.
Flynt is fearful for his loved ones (not that he’ll admit that!) like Belle St. Clare who owns a Pleasure House at Covent Gardens.
For Charters the deaths are personal. He is convinced they're the work of a man he’d sought on the eve of the battle at Malplaquet in Flanders, one Nimrod Boone. Boone was supposedly dead. Now Charters is questioning this. He wants Jonas to investigate that and the appearance of Monsieur Lombre, another dangerous character.
Rumblings between warring factions in the Rookeries are just below the surface. Jonathan Wild and Blueskin Blake make their presence felt. A highly volatile situation.
The deaths are personal too for the Admiral, a ex-midshipman who ruthlessly dictates illegal activities at the docklands and on the river. He’s concerned as well about the passions running high in the area.
Daniel Defoe, journalist and sometime scribbler of treatise and short works has been writing about a Paladin in the rookeries. Jonas feels a target on his back. Defoe’s newspaper articles need to stop.
Another dark and suspenseful historical mystery from Skelton!
A Canelo ARC via NetGalley.
Many thanks to the author and publisher.
November 30, 2024
London 1718 and a family has been found butchered in their impoverished rooms in the city’s Rookery…and Jonas Flynt has been tasked with tracking down the warped killer.
Based loosely on real events and characters, A Thief’s Blood, is the fourth historical thriller in Douglas Skelton’s Company of Rogues series. And like the others before it, this is full of adventure and thrills, pulling you along with Jonas into the dark and grimy Georgian streets. Just keep your wits about you!
Thanks to @netgalley for a proof to review in my own words
#bookreview #bookrecommendation #book #fiction #historicalfiction #london #espionage #thriller #crimebook #adventure
Based loosely on real events and characters, A Thief’s Blood, is the fourth historical thriller in Douglas Skelton’s Company of Rogues series. And like the others before it, this is full of adventure and thrills, pulling you along with Jonas into the dark and grimy Georgian streets. Just keep your wits about you!
Thanks to @netgalley for a proof to review in my own words
#bookreview #bookrecommendation #book #fiction #historicalfiction #london #espionage #thriller #crimebook #adventure
November 14, 2024
The Company of Rogues series just keeps getting better. In A Thief’s Blood Douglas Skelton has chosen to put Jonas Flynt on the trail of a vicious, irredeemable serial killer. He has taken as his inspiration, the Ratcliffe murders of 1811 when all London was convulsed with terror at the horrible slaughter wreaked at Ratcliff Highway and New Gravel Lane.
On Saturday 7th December 1811 at around 11.30pm, Timothy Marr, the owner of a draper’s shop at 29, Ratcliffe Highway, was preparing to close his business for the night. Inside the premises were four other people apart from himself: his wife Celia and their three and a half month old baby, also called Timothy, and two non-family members-their apprentice, James Gowan and Margaret Jewell, their serving girl.
Within the hour, Jewell alone would remain alive; all of the others would lie brutally and horribly murdered. They would be the first victims in a series of murders that would both grip and terrify the entire East End of London. It is these real life murders that Douglas Skelton uses as the basis for his work of historical fiction.
Douglas Skelton seamlessly blends fact and fiction together to offer an authentic picture of 18th Century London. We meet two well-known characters of the time as well as returning to characters we have come to know well in this series. It is a real a delight to learn more about Flynt’s relationship with Belle, though there is another lady in Flynt’s life who also makes a re-appearance.
His description of the seamier side of London’s streets and especially of the St Giles Rookeries is vividly evoked, as the dark and dingy muddled streets guide Flynt by their sounds and smells, an olfactory journey he wishes he’d never taken.
The plot is multi-layered. Company of Rogues leader, Colonel Nathaniel Charters has charged Jonas with finding Lombre, a French spy. But Lombre is French for ‘shadow’ and they won’t be easy to find. Colonel Charters and Flynt are also outraged by the recent murders and soon Flynt finds himself confronting Docklands gang leader, the Admiral, about this vicious killer. Jonathan Wild, the Thieftaker General, is also intent on justice for the murdered family and he and the Admiral do not make easy neighbours.
Soon Flynt is up to his neck in murders, conspiracy and a devilish plot designed to bring London under the thumb of malign forces. In a plot that is action packed and full of danger and duplicity, this thrilling read really plunges the reader in to the depths of London’s squalor.
What really makes this series stand out is the character of Jonas Flynt. He is no saint and yet his character is complex. He is no stranger to killing and though it is something he has done many times, it is not something he chooses to do unless he feels it necessary. He makes few real friends, but those he has, he is fiercely loyal to. His relationship with Charters is often strained, but he has no love for Charters’ enemies in The Fellowship. When he finds himself on the verge of being tagged with an aptronym, he finds himself unsure of whether it fits or even if he wants to be depicted as a knight-errant.
Skelton also allows us to see different sides of Colonel Nathaniel Charters and the Admiral, whom we now get to know more closely. Charters is haunted by the idea that Nimrod Boone, a monster from his past, whom he believed to be dead, has returned. He feels vulnerable and that is not something Charters has experienced before.
Verdict: There’s plenty of action, double-dealing and skulduggery in this fast moving and well-constructed plot. I loved the character development, especially the scenes between Jonas and Belle and the way in which Flynt dwells upon what he really wants from his life. Skelton draws all these threads together and leaves us with some satisfying resolution together with possibilities for the future. It’s both a thrilling and a rewarding read and I am looking forward to the next in the series, Ship of Thieves. Jonathan Flynt has fast become one of my favourite historical characters.
On Saturday 7th December 1811 at around 11.30pm, Timothy Marr, the owner of a draper’s shop at 29, Ratcliffe Highway, was preparing to close his business for the night. Inside the premises were four other people apart from himself: his wife Celia and their three and a half month old baby, also called Timothy, and two non-family members-their apprentice, James Gowan and Margaret Jewell, their serving girl.
Within the hour, Jewell alone would remain alive; all of the others would lie brutally and horribly murdered. They would be the first victims in a series of murders that would both grip and terrify the entire East End of London. It is these real life murders that Douglas Skelton uses as the basis for his work of historical fiction.
Douglas Skelton seamlessly blends fact and fiction together to offer an authentic picture of 18th Century London. We meet two well-known characters of the time as well as returning to characters we have come to know well in this series. It is a real a delight to learn more about Flynt’s relationship with Belle, though there is another lady in Flynt’s life who also makes a re-appearance.
His description of the seamier side of London’s streets and especially of the St Giles Rookeries is vividly evoked, as the dark and dingy muddled streets guide Flynt by their sounds and smells, an olfactory journey he wishes he’d never taken.
The plot is multi-layered. Company of Rogues leader, Colonel Nathaniel Charters has charged Jonas with finding Lombre, a French spy. But Lombre is French for ‘shadow’ and they won’t be easy to find. Colonel Charters and Flynt are also outraged by the recent murders and soon Flynt finds himself confronting Docklands gang leader, the Admiral, about this vicious killer. Jonathan Wild, the Thieftaker General, is also intent on justice for the murdered family and he and the Admiral do not make easy neighbours.
Soon Flynt is up to his neck in murders, conspiracy and a devilish plot designed to bring London under the thumb of malign forces. In a plot that is action packed and full of danger and duplicity, this thrilling read really plunges the reader in to the depths of London’s squalor.
What really makes this series stand out is the character of Jonas Flynt. He is no saint and yet his character is complex. He is no stranger to killing and though it is something he has done many times, it is not something he chooses to do unless he feels it necessary. He makes few real friends, but those he has, he is fiercely loyal to. His relationship with Charters is often strained, but he has no love for Charters’ enemies in The Fellowship. When he finds himself on the verge of being tagged with an aptronym, he finds himself unsure of whether it fits or even if he wants to be depicted as a knight-errant.
Skelton also allows us to see different sides of Colonel Nathaniel Charters and the Admiral, whom we now get to know more closely. Charters is haunted by the idea that Nimrod Boone, a monster from his past, whom he believed to be dead, has returned. He feels vulnerable and that is not something Charters has experienced before.
Verdict: There’s plenty of action, double-dealing and skulduggery in this fast moving and well-constructed plot. I loved the character development, especially the scenes between Jonas and Belle and the way in which Flynt dwells upon what he really wants from his life. Skelton draws all these threads together and leaves us with some satisfying resolution together with possibilities for the future. It’s both a thrilling and a rewarding read and I am looking forward to the next in the series, Ship of Thieves. Jonathan Flynt has fast become one of my favourite historical characters.
February 14, 2025
Charters calls on Jonas to take care of an assassin currently in London and not just bring him into custody as usual but to kill him. And while this doesn't sit well with him, Jonas knows he has no other choice, so he sets off to find his man. However, he is almost immediately sidetracked by the Admiral who also has a job for Jonas, a young family was murdered that morning and the Admiral wants their killer found and he only trusts Jonas to do so. Gven the brutality of the murder Jonas agrees and heads to the murder scene only to find Charters there himself, who tells Jonas a horrific story of a man who had brutally murdered a family in France, one under his command, and a man Charters thought was dead. But now, standing at the scene of this new murder he knows he's alive, and for the third time, Jonas is told that he must stop this man permanently.
Okay, so I'm just gonna address the ending first, because why are we always bringing the ex into things right when everything is going well. So help me every god ever if Jonas hurts Belle even a tiny bit. Yes, I'm pre mad at a fictional character. Jerk.
Alright, moving on.
I loved this one! It was really just Jonas running around and scaring people into telling him what he needed to know, and that was actually pretty great. We know who the bad guys are from pretty much the beginning, so it was really just chasing them down, and it was a lot of fun. Especially with the whole Paladin thing starting. I won't explain, but I hope it continues throughout the series. And yes, I'm a little sad that it doesn't appear that Defoe is going to end up being Jonas's Watson. And no, I'm not explaining you'll just have to read it.
There were two things that really stood out in this one, though; the first was Jonas grappling with his morals pretty much the entire book. Everyone (except for Belle), including Jonas, sees him as this bad guy with a larger than normal moral compass throughout the book, and I really enjoyed seeing him work through this. Especially in the last fight scenes, because Jonas isn't a bad guy with a larger than normal moral compass, he is a good guy through and through. But still had Skelton opted not to address this side of Jonas it would have taken away from what has so far made this series great. Jonas lives in a time without police and so much of what he does would fall under a police officers purview without that societal norm saying that the law can do these these it would be damn near impossible for a good person to do the things he does without feeling some sort of moral conflict. It would make Jonas a straight-up bad guy if he didn't worry about these things.
The other thing is the killer running around murdering whole families. Honestly, throughout the entire book, I felt like he was just insane. I mean, he is killing children, and he enjoys it. The few times we get to a chapter where we do hear things from his perspective, it's fairly obvious he's just wacked, and yeah, he really needs to be stopped. And then you get to the final fight scene, and you realize that's not the case at all. He's surprisingly intelligent and while it seems like he has been letting people use him the whole time, it's pretty clear that he's not only well aware that was what was happening but that he was absolutely fine with it as long as it didn't get in the way of him killing people. There are not many plot twists in this one. However, I think I'd call the killers to reveal one because I expected a mindless monster, and that's not what he was at all. A monster for sure, but he was far more intelligent than we were lead to believe.
Overall, I definitely would recommend this series! If you liked Sebastian St. Cyr or the Pendergast series this will be right up your alley.
As always, thanks to NetGalley and Canelo for the eArc!
Okay, so I'm just gonna address the ending first, because why are we always bringing the ex into things right when everything is going well. So help me every god ever if Jonas hurts Belle even a tiny bit. Yes, I'm pre mad at a fictional character. Jerk.
Alright, moving on.
I loved this one! It was really just Jonas running around and scaring people into telling him what he needed to know, and that was actually pretty great. We know who the bad guys are from pretty much the beginning, so it was really just chasing them down, and it was a lot of fun. Especially with the whole Paladin thing starting. I won't explain, but I hope it continues throughout the series. And yes, I'm a little sad that it doesn't appear that Defoe is going to end up being Jonas's Watson. And no, I'm not explaining you'll just have to read it.
There were two things that really stood out in this one, though; the first was Jonas grappling with his morals pretty much the entire book. Everyone (except for Belle), including Jonas, sees him as this bad guy with a larger than normal moral compass throughout the book, and I really enjoyed seeing him work through this. Especially in the last fight scenes, because Jonas isn't a bad guy with a larger than normal moral compass, he is a good guy through and through. But still had Skelton opted not to address this side of Jonas it would have taken away from what has so far made this series great. Jonas lives in a time without police and so much of what he does would fall under a police officers purview without that societal norm saying that the law can do these these it would be damn near impossible for a good person to do the things he does without feeling some sort of moral conflict. It would make Jonas a straight-up bad guy if he didn't worry about these things.
The other thing is the killer running around murdering whole families. Honestly, throughout the entire book, I felt like he was just insane. I mean, he is killing children, and he enjoys it. The few times we get to a chapter where we do hear things from his perspective, it's fairly obvious he's just wacked, and yeah, he really needs to be stopped. And then you get to the final fight scene, and you realize that's not the case at all. He's surprisingly intelligent and while it seems like he has been letting people use him the whole time, it's pretty clear that he's not only well aware that was what was happening but that he was absolutely fine with it as long as it didn't get in the way of him killing people. There are not many plot twists in this one. However, I think I'd call the killers to reveal one because I expected a mindless monster, and that's not what he was at all. A monster for sure, but he was far more intelligent than we were lead to believe.
Overall, I definitely would recommend this series! If you liked Sebastian St. Cyr or the Pendergast series this will be right up your alley.
As always, thanks to NetGalley and Canelo for the eArc!
October 7, 2024
The adventures of Jonas Flynt just keep getting better.
Following the events of "A Grave For a Thief", the fourth book in the Company of Rogues series opens in January 1718 and Colonel Nathaniel Charters is having nightmares. His past seems to be preying heavily on his mind. And when a horrible murder is discovered, he realises that past is coming back to haunt him. Meantime, in a seemingly unrelated event, he tasks Jonas Flynt with tracking down a French spy, known only as Lombre. But life for Flynt is never simple, and soon his quest for a spy, and the murders become inextricably linked, as he slowly uncovers a conspiracy to upset the balance of power within London's criminal underworld.
Before long, the reader and Jonas Flynt are knee-deep in plot and counter-plot where a colourful cast of characters conspire to take forward plans to alter the balance of power not just in London, but further afield. The Fellowship continues to fight an invisible battle with Charters, and enemies gather on all sides to make life difficult for Flynt. As usual, 18th Century London is presented in all its glorious sights, sounds and smells, with the Rookery area being particularly well painted. The scenes between Flynt and Charters, Flynt and the Admiral , and especially, Flynt and Belle are a joy to behold, as we slowly learn more about what makes them tick.
Long-time fans of the series will be glad to know that all of their favourite characters are back- Charters, Jonathan Wild, The Admiral, and more. Plus a couple of new characters, full of evil and deceit. There are also two cameo roles, real-life characters who add small but significant aspects to the story. Many threads from the previous books are carried forward, and Flynt's relationship with Belle takes on new dimensions. For the first time, we also see much more of the hidden sides of Charters, Wild and the Admiral - these three are now fully developed characters. But, of course, central to the story is Jonas Flynt, who continues to dwell on his past actions, the type of man he was, and has become, and what it is he really wants from life.
Oh, and the ending opens up quite a few interesting possibilities.
The author notes that he took inspiration for some elements of the book from the Ratcliffe Murders (some one hundred years later) and this forms an excellent basis from which the story unfolds, as well as giving us insights into the characters.
Fans of the series won't be disappointed, and lovers of Ambrose Parry, DV Bishop and ES Thomson will delight in this latest book. Highly recommended.
Following the events of "A Grave For a Thief", the fourth book in the Company of Rogues series opens in January 1718 and Colonel Nathaniel Charters is having nightmares. His past seems to be preying heavily on his mind. And when a horrible murder is discovered, he realises that past is coming back to haunt him. Meantime, in a seemingly unrelated event, he tasks Jonas Flynt with tracking down a French spy, known only as Lombre. But life for Flynt is never simple, and soon his quest for a spy, and the murders become inextricably linked, as he slowly uncovers a conspiracy to upset the balance of power within London's criminal underworld.
Before long, the reader and Jonas Flynt are knee-deep in plot and counter-plot where a colourful cast of characters conspire to take forward plans to alter the balance of power not just in London, but further afield. The Fellowship continues to fight an invisible battle with Charters, and enemies gather on all sides to make life difficult for Flynt. As usual, 18th Century London is presented in all its glorious sights, sounds and smells, with the Rookery area being particularly well painted. The scenes between Flynt and Charters, Flynt and the Admiral , and especially, Flynt and Belle are a joy to behold, as we slowly learn more about what makes them tick.
Long-time fans of the series will be glad to know that all of their favourite characters are back- Charters, Jonathan Wild, The Admiral, and more. Plus a couple of new characters, full of evil and deceit. There are also two cameo roles, real-life characters who add small but significant aspects to the story. Many threads from the previous books are carried forward, and Flynt's relationship with Belle takes on new dimensions. For the first time, we also see much more of the hidden sides of Charters, Wild and the Admiral - these three are now fully developed characters. But, of course, central to the story is Jonas Flynt, who continues to dwell on his past actions, the type of man he was, and has become, and what it is he really wants from life.
Oh, and the ending opens up quite a few interesting possibilities.
The author notes that he took inspiration for some elements of the book from the Ratcliffe Murders (some one hundred years later) and this forms an excellent basis from which the story unfolds, as well as giving us insights into the characters.
Fans of the series won't be disappointed, and lovers of Ambrose Parry, DV Bishop and ES Thomson will delight in this latest book. Highly recommended.
November 13, 2024
I thank NetGalley and Canelo for an advance reader copy of A Thief’s Blood. All opinions and comments are my own.
Once again Jonas Flynt manages not to get himself killed in A Thief’s Blood, the fourth in the historical mysteries series by Douglas Skelton, taking place in a dark and dismal 1718 London. That’s not to say that quite a few others don’t meet their demise during the events outlined in the narrative. But when you have a maniacal killer murdering whole families, including children, and you have Jonas (who’s acquired the nickname “Paladin” – he’s not very happy about that) tracking the murderer as well as determining who’s pulling the strings, that can’t be a bad thing.
Of course, spymaster Nathanial Charters is keeping him busy, too -- these are spy thrillers after all -- so we do have Jonas chasing after an elusive French spy. And who else gets involved in our not so happy tale but the pamphleteer and aspiring writer Daniel Defoe (who turns out to have more in common with Jonas than he can imagine). Add in Jonas’ continuing angst about his relationship with the lovely Belle (who proves at the end, to be quite handy with a pistol), and more involvement with Lord Moncrieff, our author ensures that readers are entertained from page to page.
Historical Notes explain the true history, people and places used as background for A Thief’s Blood. Douglas Skelton has crafted a gripping saga of intrigue, thrilling action, and psychological behavior, both good and bad. Jonas Flynt is a Paladin of fictional heroes, one that jumps out from the pages. No doubt there will more trouble afoot in the next book (that ending practically guarantees it).
Once again Jonas Flynt manages not to get himself killed in A Thief’s Blood, the fourth in the historical mysteries series by Douglas Skelton, taking place in a dark and dismal 1718 London. That’s not to say that quite a few others don’t meet their demise during the events outlined in the narrative. But when you have a maniacal killer murdering whole families, including children, and you have Jonas (who’s acquired the nickname “Paladin” – he’s not very happy about that) tracking the murderer as well as determining who’s pulling the strings, that can’t be a bad thing.
Of course, spymaster Nathanial Charters is keeping him busy, too -- these are spy thrillers after all -- so we do have Jonas chasing after an elusive French spy. And who else gets involved in our not so happy tale but the pamphleteer and aspiring writer Daniel Defoe (who turns out to have more in common with Jonas than he can imagine). Add in Jonas’ continuing angst about his relationship with the lovely Belle (who proves at the end, to be quite handy with a pistol), and more involvement with Lord Moncrieff, our author ensures that readers are entertained from page to page.
Historical Notes explain the true history, people and places used as background for A Thief’s Blood. Douglas Skelton has crafted a gripping saga of intrigue, thrilling action, and psychological behavior, both good and bad. Jonas Flynt is a Paladin of fictional heroes, one that jumps out from the pages. No doubt there will more trouble afoot in the next book (that ending practically guarantees it).
October 31, 2024
Jonas Flynt finds himself having to deal with his old Captain and head of the Company of Rogues Colonel Nathaniel Charters when a family is found murdered in a horrific manner and it draws the attention of the Thiefmaster General Jonathan Wild.
Jonas Flynt always sails very close to edge when it comes to the law but even for him there are some lines you just don’t cross and one of them is that no matter what you don’t kill innocent children and even though he resents the hold Nathaniel has over him, he is determined to find out who is responsible for the murders. When another family is killed in the same way it looks like there may be a war waging between Jonathan Wild and a gang leader known as The Admiral, but Flynt is not so sure as he knows both men and doesn’t believe that either one would resort to such measures to take control of the London streets.
I have loved this series from the start as you can’t help but like Jonas Flynt. The more you get to know about him the more you can see that despite his reluctance to do the bidding of Nathaniel Charters he can quite often see the benefits of what he is trying to achieve. He has quite a few demons and flaws but in his own way he tries to make up for this by protecting those who need it even if it has now brought him to the attention of people, he would rather stay clear of and earned him a nickname that may be his undoing if he is not careful. Despite everything Jonas is also making time to spend with those he cares about, and his true feelings come to the fore when some are threatened, and others make choices that breaks his trust in them.
Douglas Skelton has once again transported the reader to the dark and seedy side of London where there are no rules, and the law often has no bearing in what takes place. The crimes this time may be bloody and brutal, but it is left to the readers imagination rather than put on the page. As ever there are real people and events dotted throughout the story that have been blended perfectly. With ghosts from the past and enemies of old this is the perfect addition to the series and after the cliffhanger ending, I can’t wait to meet up with Jonas Flynt again.
Jonas Flynt always sails very close to edge when it comes to the law but even for him there are some lines you just don’t cross and one of them is that no matter what you don’t kill innocent children and even though he resents the hold Nathaniel has over him, he is determined to find out who is responsible for the murders. When another family is killed in the same way it looks like there may be a war waging between Jonathan Wild and a gang leader known as The Admiral, but Flynt is not so sure as he knows both men and doesn’t believe that either one would resort to such measures to take control of the London streets.
I have loved this series from the start as you can’t help but like Jonas Flynt. The more you get to know about him the more you can see that despite his reluctance to do the bidding of Nathaniel Charters he can quite often see the benefits of what he is trying to achieve. He has quite a few demons and flaws but in his own way he tries to make up for this by protecting those who need it even if it has now brought him to the attention of people, he would rather stay clear of and earned him a nickname that may be his undoing if he is not careful. Despite everything Jonas is also making time to spend with those he cares about, and his true feelings come to the fore when some are threatened, and others make choices that breaks his trust in them.
Douglas Skelton has once again transported the reader to the dark and seedy side of London where there are no rules, and the law often has no bearing in what takes place. The crimes this time may be bloody and brutal, but it is left to the readers imagination rather than put on the page. As ever there are real people and events dotted throughout the story that have been blended perfectly. With ghosts from the past and enemies of old this is the perfect addition to the series and after the cliffhanger ending, I can’t wait to meet up with Jonas Flynt again.
December 14, 2024
Douglas Skelton’s A Thief's Blood is a gripping historical crime thriller that transports readers to the turbulent streets of Georgian London. The novel opens with a chilling scene: a family is found brutally murdered in one of the city’s poorest districts, the Rookery. While most authorities dismiss the case, Thiefmaster General Jonathan Wild takes notice, prompting Colonel Nathaniel Charters to assign the investigation to his trusted operative, Jonas Flynt.
Flynt, a seasoned investigator with a murky past, discovers layers of corruption, rivalries, and brutal gang warfare. As more murders occur, the line between ally and enemy blurs. Skelton skillfully weaves an intricate web of deception, suspicion, and violence. The vividly detailed setting—grime-covered alleys, seedy taverns, and the ever-present tension of London on the brink—immerses readers in a world where danger lurks in every shadow.
The character of Flynt is complex and engaging, balancing moral ambiguity with a desire for justice. The novel's twists keep readers guessing: Is the gang leader, The Admiral, responsible, or is there a more insidious evil at play? Skelton’s sharp prose and meticulous historical detail make this a thrilling ride, culminating in an unpredictable conclusion that leaves a lasting impact. This is a must-read for historical crime fiction fans.
Flynt, a seasoned investigator with a murky past, discovers layers of corruption, rivalries, and brutal gang warfare. As more murders occur, the line between ally and enemy blurs. Skelton skillfully weaves an intricate web of deception, suspicion, and violence. The vividly detailed setting—grime-covered alleys, seedy taverns, and the ever-present tension of London on the brink—immerses readers in a world where danger lurks in every shadow.
The character of Flynt is complex and engaging, balancing moral ambiguity with a desire for justice. The novel's twists keep readers guessing: Is the gang leader, The Admiral, responsible, or is there a more insidious evil at play? Skelton’s sharp prose and meticulous historical detail make this a thrilling ride, culminating in an unpredictable conclusion that leaves a lasting impact. This is a must-read for historical crime fiction fans.
April 24, 2025
I've just got through about three chapters, but when I see "Historical" on the cover, I don't expect a one-eyed criminal mastermind who wears a hood and is called "The Admiral"- did I forget to mention he has a "heart of gold"? This is a fantasy version of history. And there's way too much exposition. Almost every character is explained as "the Royal such and such under the captain or commander of the Guard..." guess that is part of the "historical" setting, it may be the only hints we get of history. Except for the prostitute/madame who is in love with the main character? She gets a subtle introduction, I guess because she's a prostitute, yet a sympathetic character? Again, very unrealistic, but I wouldn't know how else to sneak in a sex scene or two, or for that matter, a female character in this world of men, in this time period. I may keep reading a bit, but I wish it was more clear it is Fantasy, only the setting is even close to historical, perhaps I should have known with "crime thriller" which definitely doesn't fit this time period. Actually it seems more of a "Spy Thriller", but whatev. The writing definitely doesn't deserve anywhere close to five stars. The reviews also seem deceptive, there seems to be deception all around the marketing of the book!
November 26, 2024
A serial killer is on the loose. One family humble with no gang affiliations murdered brutally. Before the hue and cry can die down, another very similar family is killed.
Jonas Flynn is ordered to investigate whether it is the work of a gang, from the Rookery, an infamous neighborhood in London or is it the work of a bloodthirsty single mad man. His investigation is meticulous. The detail in the story is amazing and covers all aspects of life in the Metropolis. From the characterization of aristocrats far removed from poverty, to small time underworld gangsters constantly trying to get rid of the competition and extend their holdings and then you get the common man just trying to survive and often becoming collateral damage. This was the characters.
The description of the environment where these events took place could well form a story in itself. The sheer extent of degradation and squalor in places where animals could not survive but where humans did live was a disgrace for the politicians of the time who ignored for the most part, the poor of the time.
The book is an eye opener and a page turner too.
Jonas Flynn is ordered to investigate whether it is the work of a gang, from the Rookery, an infamous neighborhood in London or is it the work of a bloodthirsty single mad man. His investigation is meticulous. The detail in the story is amazing and covers all aspects of life in the Metropolis. From the characterization of aristocrats far removed from poverty, to small time underworld gangsters constantly trying to get rid of the competition and extend their holdings and then you get the common man just trying to survive and often becoming collateral damage. This was the characters.
The description of the environment where these events took place could well form a story in itself. The sheer extent of degradation and squalor in places where animals could not survive but where humans did live was a disgrace for the politicians of the time who ignored for the most part, the poor of the time.
The book is an eye opener and a page turner too.
January 14, 2026
Douglas Skelton possesses such skill in character and world building. Each character pops off the page and is instantly memorable such as the Admiral, Wilds, Madame de Fontaine, Madame Grady etc. The book feels very well researched and you pick up lots of interesting tidbits throughout the book for what London was like in that time. The pace of the book never drops and doesn't get stuck in these descriptions however, but manages to weave the historical knowledge in without taking away from the story.
I particularly enjoyed the dialogue in the book, which had me laughing out loud multiple times. Skelton isn't afraid to develop a lengthy dialogue which I find many authors won't to do. The use of 18th century street slang in this book was brilliant and made me wish we still used these words.
I had read the previous entry in the series a year or 2 ago as well, so was concerned whether it would take me a long time to get back into it and remember what had happened, but Skelton expertly manages to catch you back up with the story and characters within the first few chapters.
If you've read the previous books in this series, you owe it to yourself to read this one.
I particularly enjoyed the dialogue in the book, which had me laughing out loud multiple times. Skelton isn't afraid to develop a lengthy dialogue which I find many authors won't to do. The use of 18th century street slang in this book was brilliant and made me wish we still used these words.
I had read the previous entry in the series a year or 2 ago as well, so was concerned whether it would take me a long time to get back into it and remember what had happened, but Skelton expertly manages to catch you back up with the story and characters within the first few chapters.
If you've read the previous books in this series, you owe it to yourself to read this one.
January 2, 2025
This series is developing quite nicely and our anti-hero Jonas Flynt is a personable and likeable character. However, as time goes on and the universe develops, it is becoming increasingly harder to believe the backstory, that Jonas Flynt would continue to work for Col. Charters under the conditions that we are given. Since he is well aware that the premise is false and he appears most reluctant to be Col. Charters's cat's paw, it seems beyond belief that someone as wily and wide awake as Flynt would not have found a way out of the trap by now. Nevertheless, as a bastard with a heart Jonas Flynt makes a great Georgian 007, and as usual, this is a rip-roaring adventure, with a little bit of everything. It would be nice to have Gabriel Cain reappear; something for the next book perhaps?
Thanks to Netgalley for a free review copy of this book.
Thanks to Netgalley for a free review copy of this book.
January 26, 2025
Thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for this eARC.
Douglas Skelton's "A Thief's Blood" is a captivating and intricately woven crime thriller that plunges readers into a world of treachery, moral ambiguity, and relentless pursuit. Criminals, gangs, and motives abound.
The novel follows Jonas Flynt, as he uncovers the reason behind the insidious murder of an entire family in an impoverished area.
Highly recommended for readers who appreciate crime thrillers with complex characters and a fast-paced, twisty plot. "A Thief's Blood" is a standout novel that showcases Douglas Skelton's talent for storytelling.
Douglas Skelton's "A Thief's Blood" is a captivating and intricately woven crime thriller that plunges readers into a world of treachery, moral ambiguity, and relentless pursuit. Criminals, gangs, and motives abound.
The novel follows Jonas Flynt, as he uncovers the reason behind the insidious murder of an entire family in an impoverished area.
Highly recommended for readers who appreciate crime thrillers with complex characters and a fast-paced, twisty plot. "A Thief's Blood" is a standout novel that showcases Douglas Skelton's talent for storytelling.
April 11, 2025
I think, on balance this is the best of the series for several reasons. It clearly builds on the strengths of the previous books, but by including Belle more it adds layers (and challenges) to Flynt as a protagonist. There is a nice three way power struggle - arguably four way if you include Col. Charters and it is nice to see a little bit more to him beyond Flynt's inscrutable boss who will use every means to protect the realm.
As ever, London seems the size of a village, a few words which feel a little anachronistic but moreso than any of the others this one made me want to pick up the next one straight away (its not published yet though, groan!)
As ever, London seems the size of a village, a few words which feel a little anachronistic but moreso than any of the others this one made me want to pick up the next one straight away (its not published yet though, groan!)
October 5, 2024
Firstly thanks to NetGalley and the publishers for the advanced copy of this book in return for my honest opinion.
I have read the previous books in this series and always thoroughly enjoyed them however for some reason this one did not hit the same . I was confused with the plot and was not really sure until the e d what was going on . I also feel like there were references to the previous books so if you had not read them it would have been difficult to comprehend what was happening. That being said it was an ok read and didn’t take long to get through it . 3.5 stars
I have read the previous books in this series and always thoroughly enjoyed them however for some reason this one did not hit the same . I was confused with the plot and was not really sure until the e d what was going on . I also feel like there were references to the previous books so if you had not read them it would have been difficult to comprehend what was happening. That being said it was an ok read and didn’t take long to get through it . 3.5 stars
October 8, 2024
I just loved it as I do the whole series. The very atmospheric, creepy, dark, stinking, cold and violent streets and life in London are incredibly vivid and perfectly woven in the intricate and complex plot. The characters are no less dark, creepy and violent matching their way of life. But some of them remain honorary at heart, particularly when they endure violent acts from or to others.... I really like Jonas' character and his reflections on justice... Highly recommended series!
I received a digital copy of this novel from NetGalley and I have voluntarily written an honest review.
I received a digital copy of this novel from NetGalley and I have voluntarily written an honest review.
October 20, 2024
Jonas Flynt is back, up to his neck in shenanigans not of his own making. The Company of Rogues charge him with a mission that ends up being diverted by a particularly nasty serial killer. Tact & Diplomacy are on his side as usual (iykyk) & some characters from the previous books also make an appearance. I have really enjoyed this series, having read them all, but I did find this one harder to follow. There were lots of characters & dingy alleys & I found myself getting muddled with who was who. Saying that, I enjoyed this book & wouldn’t hesitate to recommend it.
October 22, 2024
Thank you Netgalley and Canelo for the advanced digital arc of A Thief's Blood.
The book description was promising, but it took a few chapters for me as the reader to fully become immersed in the story and understand who's who and what story was fully taking place. There were some parts that felt a bit unnecessarily long-winded and could've been cut shorter.
However, Jonas Flynt is truly a character to admire his natural bravery and heroism. I think he was the main spark in this particular book.
The book description was promising, but it took a few chapters for me as the reader to fully become immersed in the story and understand who's who and what story was fully taking place. There were some parts that felt a bit unnecessarily long-winded and could've been cut shorter.
However, Jonas Flynt is truly a character to admire his natural bravery and heroism. I think he was the main spark in this particular book.
November 13, 2024
What I love about this series is the vivid detail which the author uses to describe early 18th century London and all the underhand dealings going on. When you read this book and the others, you are right there with Jonas Flynt, seeing the sights and sometimes (not so nice) smelling the scent that pervaded the city of London. Love the swashbuckling moments along with the intrigue and history.
Thanks to Netgalley/Canelo books for the ARC to review.
Thanks to Netgalley/Canelo books for the ARC to review.
December 16, 2024
Excellent. Again. When Jonas Flynt is given another task by Colonel Charters, to whom he cannot say “no”, he couldn’t have imagined the horrors it would bring. The rogue with a sideline in helping those who cannot help themselves, has to track down a psychopathic killer and deal with a burgeoning turf war but at what cost to himself? Douglas Skelton has given us another, beautifully crafted tale - you can almost smell those back streets of old London. Can’t wait for the next one.
October 20, 2024
1718 London. Jonas Flynt is ordered by Colonel Nathaniel Charters leader of The Company of Rogues, to find a spy called Lombre, determined his mission and then kill him. Meanwhile the gang leader, The Admiral, informs Flynt of the murder of the honest Berthon family and wants the murderer found. The family also interest Jonathan Wild, Thiefmaster General. Can Flynt find the killer and survive before he kills again.
An entertaining and well-written historical mystery with its cast of interesting characters. Another good addition to this enjoyable series.
An ARC was provided by the publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
An entertaining and well-written historical mystery with its cast of interesting characters. Another good addition to this enjoyable series.
An ARC was provided by the publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
November 30, 2024
Another episode in the complicated life of Jonas Flynt, this one a bit more grizzly but still entertaining. This was a bit overly long and dragged a bit, but still so well written that it was fine. This ends in a cliffhanger and while I’m getting as tired if book series as I am if TV series, I expect I’ll read this.
September 28, 2024
Really enjoyed this book, I love a serial killer book but have never read one based in this era. Didn’t disappoint at all. Once I had picked it up I found it very difficult to put down. If you are a murder mystery fan who enjoys the Georgian era this is the book for you.
November 30, 2024
Awesome Series!
I always look forward to the next book in this series. I was hooked from the first and each one is better than the last. I am left wanting more and I can't wait to see what happens next.
I always look forward to the next book in this series. I was hooked from the first and each one is better than the last. I am left wanting more and I can't wait to see what happens next.
November 25, 2025
18th century‘S dark side!
Couldn’t put it down! Superb blend of historical facts and delightful embellishments by the author.There’s the dark side of time and place as well within the dramatis personae! Wonderful indeed!
Couldn’t put it down! Superb blend of historical facts and delightful embellishments by the author.There’s the dark side of time and place as well within the dramatis personae! Wonderful indeed!
October 5, 2024
3.5⭐️ felt a little long winded but did end on a bit of a cliff hanger
November 16, 2024
A Very Strong Chapter In The ‘Flynn Files’.
I does have it right loud, this, here, were a great blast of a tale, your peepers will tell you true!
An excellent addition.
I does have it right loud, this, here, were a great blast of a tale, your peepers will tell you true!
An excellent addition.
November 23, 2024
Another great outing for Jonas Flynt. Credibility of the story was stretched at times but I was hooked from a few pages in and it didn't impact my enjoyment.
December 10, 2024
Yet another excellent book on the Jonas Flynt series. I cannot praise this series highly enough. Can't wait for the next one. A series definitely to be recommended for lovers of historical crime.
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