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The Thieves' Carousel
What price would you pay to undo a death?
In the shadowed streets of Aspizia, two thieves—Lyo Morandi and Jasper Bray—risk everything to rewrite the past. Haunted by the death of their friend Milo, they set their sights on a forbidden a ring reputed to alter time.
To steal it, they must infiltrate the Thieves’ Carousel, a ruthless exhibition where the city’s most dangerous criminals flaunt their treasures—and fight to keep them. But as Lyo and Jasper descend deeper into the catacombs beneath Aspizia, they uncover a truth far more dangerous than they the ring’s power comes at a devastating cost.
Loyalties splinter. Betrayal lurks around every corner. Loyalties splinter. As the game turns deadly, they must ask How far will they go to rescue the past and save the future—and how much of themselves are they willing to lose?
The Thieves’ Carousel is a gripping tale of ambition, sacrifice, and the haunting price of second chances.
In the shadowed streets of Aspizia, two thieves—Lyo Morandi and Jasper Bray—risk everything to rewrite the past. Haunted by the death of their friend Milo, they set their sights on a forbidden a ring reputed to alter time.
To steal it, they must infiltrate the Thieves’ Carousel, a ruthless exhibition where the city’s most dangerous criminals flaunt their treasures—and fight to keep them. But as Lyo and Jasper descend deeper into the catacombs beneath Aspizia, they uncover a truth far more dangerous than they the ring’s power comes at a devastating cost.
Loyalties splinter. Betrayal lurks around every corner. Loyalties splinter. As the game turns deadly, they must ask How far will they go to rescue the past and save the future—and how much of themselves are they willing to lose?
The Thieves’ Carousel is a gripping tale of ambition, sacrifice, and the haunting price of second chances.
302 pages, Kindle Edition
Published August 26, 2025
3 people are currently reading
21 people want to read
About the author
Briana Chen
2 books28 followersBRIANA CHEN is an award-winning fantasy author and repeat offender when it comes to falling headfirst into fandoms. She loves morally gray characters, unpredictable plot twists, and books that make her stare at a wall for hours afterward.
She is also a digital artist, gamer, and graduate of Carnegie Mellon University. She currently spends her time battling artist’s and writer’s block—sometimes simultaneously—and pursuing more adventures to add to her hoard of treasure.
She is also a digital artist, gamer, and graduate of Carnegie Mellon University. She currently spends her time battling artist’s and writer’s block—sometimes simultaneously—and pursuing more adventures to add to her hoard of treasure.
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Displaying 1 - 25 of 25 reviews
September 2, 2025
The Thieves’ Carousel by Briana Chen was thoroughly entertaining from start to finish. The structure alone made it nearly impossible to put down, and the story had me hooked with every turn.
The novel follows Lyo Morandi and Jasper Bray, two thieves who take on the near-impossible task of reforming their guild in honor of their late friend Milo. Their dream isn’t just about survival—it’s about reshaping Aspizia into a place with fairer opportunities for its people. When the legend of the Mago, a time-bending creature of myth, becomes entwined with their quest, the stakes skyrocket. Suddenly, Lyo and Jasper face not only the chance to achieve their mission but the dangerous temptation of undoing death itself—at a price they may not be able to bear.
What stood out most to me was how Chen balanced world-building and pacing. Unlike many fantasy novels that lean heavily on lore, this one is driven primarily by character relationships and the city’s intricate social fabric. The fantasy elements are sharp, sinister, and perfectly measured—adding weight without overwhelming the narrative. The result is a world that feels vivid and lived-in, with tension simmering in every alley and catacomb.
I was thrilled, terrified, and constantly eager for more. The book’s atmosphere is both menacing and exhilarating, and the emotional stakes never let up. Chen has crafted a story that is equal parts fast-paced adventure and thoughtful exploration of grief, loyalty, and the price of second chances.
The only reason I gave this four stars instead of five was the dialogue. At times, character voices blurred together, and without tags, I occasionally struggled to tell who was speaking. A bit more variation here would have elevated already strong characterizations and kept the momentum even smoother.
Overall, The Thieves’ Carousel is a triumph. It’s a gripping, gorgeously crafted fantasy that blends action, emotion, and danger in equal measure. Fans of fast-paced fantasy with heart and grit will not want to miss it.
The novel follows Lyo Morandi and Jasper Bray, two thieves who take on the near-impossible task of reforming their guild in honor of their late friend Milo. Their dream isn’t just about survival—it’s about reshaping Aspizia into a place with fairer opportunities for its people. When the legend of the Mago, a time-bending creature of myth, becomes entwined with their quest, the stakes skyrocket. Suddenly, Lyo and Jasper face not only the chance to achieve their mission but the dangerous temptation of undoing death itself—at a price they may not be able to bear.
What stood out most to me was how Chen balanced world-building and pacing. Unlike many fantasy novels that lean heavily on lore, this one is driven primarily by character relationships and the city’s intricate social fabric. The fantasy elements are sharp, sinister, and perfectly measured—adding weight without overwhelming the narrative. The result is a world that feels vivid and lived-in, with tension simmering in every alley and catacomb.
I was thrilled, terrified, and constantly eager for more. The book’s atmosphere is both menacing and exhilarating, and the emotional stakes never let up. Chen has crafted a story that is equal parts fast-paced adventure and thoughtful exploration of grief, loyalty, and the price of second chances.
The only reason I gave this four stars instead of five was the dialogue. At times, character voices blurred together, and without tags, I occasionally struggled to tell who was speaking. A bit more variation here would have elevated already strong characterizations and kept the momentum even smoother.
Overall, The Thieves’ Carousel is a triumph. It’s a gripping, gorgeously crafted fantasy that blends action, emotion, and danger in equal measure. Fans of fast-paced fantasy with heart and grit will not want to miss it.
November 21, 2025
What a thrilling, mysterious and addictive story! This book reminded me of Caraval, Now you see me and Six of Crows. Heists, games, trials, magic, rival gangs and spies. The world is very dark and ominous, feels like it’s somewhere in central Europe, with it’s catacombs. Our two main characters Lyo and Jasper, are very entertaining to follow. Their brotherhood, and their unbreakable bond are so heartwarming. Especially considering the background, orphans who survived together, and the loss of their third friend. Love that the start of every chapter begins with Jaspers journal entries. Gives you a little window into his mind and feelings, a character that’s quite closed off in person. A very nice touch, since it’s mostly Lyo’s perspective we follow throughout the book. The whole plotline around the Thieves’ carousel are also interesting, and darker then I thought. Will be very intriguing to see how the next installment will pan out, will they actually complete the trials? Given the prize they have to pay?
Great start to the series, fast paced and got me hooked from the first page! 🎠
Great start to the series, fast paced and got me hooked from the first page! 🎠
November 12, 2025
A dynamic thief duo must pull of their most dangerous heist yet in this mysterious fantasy novel.
Lyo Morandi and Jasper Bray are two thieves that have been abused by the power system of Aspizia for far too long. Eager to seize their chance to elicit some change, Lyo and Jasper decide to pursue a lead on a magical ring that has the power to change time. This ring is deep within the Thieves' Carousel, which is a den where the rich and dangerous gather for illicit activities. Luckily, Lyo and Jasper are experienced thieves, so they should be able to pull of this heist no problem. Unbeknownst to them however, power such as the ring's comes at a steep cost and the young men may have to sacrifice everything they hold dear in order to change the city for the better.
I'm so conflicted with this one. On the one hand, it has a very neat premise, and Lyo and Jasper are a dynamic duo that one can't help but root for. On the other, this book was way too long for nothing happening. This book felt a bit like a prequel to me; it introduced us to the plot while giving the reader a ton of lore about the world. The actual plot line involving the Mago's ring barely takes off during the course of this novel, which I found to be an extreme bummer.
Lyo and Jasper are both very likable characters with infectious attitudes. Lyo is definitely the schemer and the risk taker, while Jasper is a bit quieter and would rather be reading than chasing the thrill on the streets. Despite their differences, it is easy to tell how close they are and just how desperately they care for one another. The dialogue between these two was one of my favorite parts of this entire book.
Another thing that I thought was neat is the fact that the book follows Lyo's perspective, but every chapter starts with a quote out of Jasper's journal. I thought this was a really smart way to integrate Jasper's thoughts into the narrative and allowed me to connect more with him as a reader.
The final thing I really appreciated about this one is the conversation it offers about sacrifice. Lyo and Jasper used to be a trio of thieves, but Milo was killed tragically several years ago. Lyo finds himself feeling overly guilty about his compatriot's death and would sacrifice most anything to get him back. There would have already been a ton of sacrifice needed in order to successfully use the Mago's ring and it would be an extremely difficult decision to decide whether a chance at a better future is worth such a high risk. For Lyo though, the thought of having Milo back made the decision for him. I think this brings to light a great idea to ponder about just how much we'd sacrifice for those we love most.
The biggest downfall about this one for me is that I couldn't keep up with all of the different politics and was a tad confused by the structure that the city follows. I know that Lyo and Jasper are forced to work for some rich people in order to not be killed, but I'm not really sure how that works, if I'm being honest. These two working to overthrow the corrupt system that they are trapped in is a major part of this book, but I sincerely struggled to process all of what was happening.
Another thing that didn't work for me was the pacing. When a book like this promises thrills and high-stake heists, it difficult for me to comprehend when the book ends up moving at a snail pace and being relatively boring for most of the novel. I am definitely not a huge fan to just watching Lyo and Jasper gather information from various rich people for a good half of this book, only for the actual heist to be skimmed over rather quickly.
I think the concept of the Mago's ring and the five trials that one is forced to endeavor to win its power is a pretty intriguing idea, but as I alluded to earlier, this doesn't really come into play until the final segment of the book. This makes me think that book two may be super interesting, but unfortunately, that doesn't change the fact that this one was mostly a boring confusing mess to my poor brain.
Overall, I am greatly conflicted about my time with "The Thieves' Carousel." It has some really intriguing concepts, some extremely fun characters, and even some stellar scenes, but it just wasn't enough to keep me actively engaged. I found myself confused by the city's power structure and politics, bored by the repetitive nature of Lyo and Jasper moving from one place to the next just to precure the information they required, and constantly felt like I was missing a critical piece of the puzzle the entire time. I truly think the second book in this series has a ton of potential, but these things aren't enough to redeem this title for me.
Lyo Morandi and Jasper Bray are two thieves that have been abused by the power system of Aspizia for far too long. Eager to seize their chance to elicit some change, Lyo and Jasper decide to pursue a lead on a magical ring that has the power to change time. This ring is deep within the Thieves' Carousel, which is a den where the rich and dangerous gather for illicit activities. Luckily, Lyo and Jasper are experienced thieves, so they should be able to pull of this heist no problem. Unbeknownst to them however, power such as the ring's comes at a steep cost and the young men may have to sacrifice everything they hold dear in order to change the city for the better.
I'm so conflicted with this one. On the one hand, it has a very neat premise, and Lyo and Jasper are a dynamic duo that one can't help but root for. On the other, this book was way too long for nothing happening. This book felt a bit like a prequel to me; it introduced us to the plot while giving the reader a ton of lore about the world. The actual plot line involving the Mago's ring barely takes off during the course of this novel, which I found to be an extreme bummer.
Lyo and Jasper are both very likable characters with infectious attitudes. Lyo is definitely the schemer and the risk taker, while Jasper is a bit quieter and would rather be reading than chasing the thrill on the streets. Despite their differences, it is easy to tell how close they are and just how desperately they care for one another. The dialogue between these two was one of my favorite parts of this entire book.
Another thing that I thought was neat is the fact that the book follows Lyo's perspective, but every chapter starts with a quote out of Jasper's journal. I thought this was a really smart way to integrate Jasper's thoughts into the narrative and allowed me to connect more with him as a reader.
The final thing I really appreciated about this one is the conversation it offers about sacrifice. Lyo and Jasper used to be a trio of thieves, but Milo was killed tragically several years ago. Lyo finds himself feeling overly guilty about his compatriot's death and would sacrifice most anything to get him back. There would have already been a ton of sacrifice needed in order to successfully use the Mago's ring and it would be an extremely difficult decision to decide whether a chance at a better future is worth such a high risk. For Lyo though, the thought of having Milo back made the decision for him. I think this brings to light a great idea to ponder about just how much we'd sacrifice for those we love most.
The biggest downfall about this one for me is that I couldn't keep up with all of the different politics and was a tad confused by the structure that the city follows. I know that Lyo and Jasper are forced to work for some rich people in order to not be killed, but I'm not really sure how that works, if I'm being honest. These two working to overthrow the corrupt system that they are trapped in is a major part of this book, but I sincerely struggled to process all of what was happening.
Another thing that didn't work for me was the pacing. When a book like this promises thrills and high-stake heists, it difficult for me to comprehend when the book ends up moving at a snail pace and being relatively boring for most of the novel. I am definitely not a huge fan to just watching Lyo and Jasper gather information from various rich people for a good half of this book, only for the actual heist to be skimmed over rather quickly.
I think the concept of the Mago's ring and the five trials that one is forced to endeavor to win its power is a pretty intriguing idea, but as I alluded to earlier, this doesn't really come into play until the final segment of the book. This makes me think that book two may be super interesting, but unfortunately, that doesn't change the fact that this one was mostly a boring confusing mess to my poor brain.
Overall, I am greatly conflicted about my time with "The Thieves' Carousel." It has some really intriguing concepts, some extremely fun characters, and even some stellar scenes, but it just wasn't enough to keep me actively engaged. I found myself confused by the city's power structure and politics, bored by the repetitive nature of Lyo and Jasper moving from one place to the next just to precure the information they required, and constantly felt like I was missing a critical piece of the puzzle the entire time. I truly think the second book in this series has a ton of potential, but these things aren't enough to redeem this title for me.
December 2, 2025
The Thieves’ Carousel brings to life a Venetian inspired city with a creeping underbelly. There have been many gilded and great cities in fiction that swarm with corruption but Chen’s beautifully tactile prose sells it spectacularly. I found myself wanting to walk the city’s canals and visit its lush theatre. And yet nowhere is this hidden darkness more powerful than in its characters’ loves.
There’s an ache in each of the relationships. No matter the years, and no matter who they have now, it yawns wide. And the tug at those bonds is heartbreaking as the spectre of loss looms. Even as the cost of the ring’s power becomes clearer, it’s so easy to fall back into contemplation with the characters. The temptation is just so sweet.
The promises of the ring are some of the most compelling moments of the book. I was fascinated by the trials and cannot wait to see how they play out.
Unfortunately, however, outside of its relationships and schemes, The Thieves’ Carousel does err to the simple. While there is a credible threat from the Grandmaster and the Cimmerians, it is undercut more and more as the book goes. Lyo and Jasper worry so much about being hunted by the great powers of the city and yet two months just slip by. A rumour spoken just once sparks and spreads through the factions. It takes some of the power from the book’s bite.
Nonetheless, I fell in love the world – from its soaring heights to the warmth of Giada’s home. With the promise now of betrayals on the horizon, I cannot wait to see what twists and turns are to come in this series.
Thanks to iRead Book Tours and Briana Chen for this review copy.
There’s an ache in each of the relationships. No matter the years, and no matter who they have now, it yawns wide. And the tug at those bonds is heartbreaking as the spectre of loss looms. Even as the cost of the ring’s power becomes clearer, it’s so easy to fall back into contemplation with the characters. The temptation is just so sweet.
The promises of the ring are some of the most compelling moments of the book. I was fascinated by the trials and cannot wait to see how they play out.
Unfortunately, however, outside of its relationships and schemes, The Thieves’ Carousel does err to the simple. While there is a credible threat from the Grandmaster and the Cimmerians, it is undercut more and more as the book goes. Lyo and Jasper worry so much about being hunted by the great powers of the city and yet two months just slip by. A rumour spoken just once sparks and spreads through the factions. It takes some of the power from the book’s bite.
Nonetheless, I fell in love the world – from its soaring heights to the warmth of Giada’s home. With the promise now of betrayals on the horizon, I cannot wait to see what twists and turns are to come in this series.
Thanks to iRead Book Tours and Briana Chen for this review copy.
December 9, 2025
𝐑𝐄𝐀𝐃 𝐓𝐇𝐈𝐒 𝐈𝐅 𝐘𝐎𝐔
📚 are looking for a new series
🗺️ love world building
🪄 enjoy fantasy books
❤️ like character driven plots
• 𝐖𝐇𝐀𝐓 𝐈𝐓’𝐒 𝐀𝐁𝐎𝐔𝐓
What price would you pay to undo a death?
In the shadowed streets of Aspizia, two thieves—Lyo Morandi and Jasper Bray—risk everything to rewrite the past. Haunted by the death of their friend Milo, they set their sights on a forbidden prize: a ring reputed to alter time.
To steal it, they must infiltrate the Thieves’ Carousel, a ruthless exhibition where the city’s most dangerous criminals flaunt their treasures—and fight to keep them. But as Lyo and Jasper descend deeper into the catacombs beneath Aspizia, they uncover a truth far more dangerous than they imagined: the ring’s power comes at a devastating cost.
Loyalties splinter. Betrayal lurks around every corner. Loyalties splinter. As the game turns deadly, they must ask themselves: How far will they go to rescue the past and save the future—and how much of themselves are they willing to lose?
• 𝐌𝐘 𝐓𝐇𝐎𝐔𝐆𝐇𝐓𝐒
This was a bit difficult for me as it contained a lot of world building and character development rather than action. I understand why it was done, as this is just book one in a new series, but I wish that more had happened to help push the story along. I did enjoy the darkness of the story and the darkness of the characters. The world they live in felt so ominous and that really shone through in the story. Overall I’m looking forward to seeing what happens next in book 2!
📚 are looking for a new series
🗺️ love world building
🪄 enjoy fantasy books
❤️ like character driven plots
• 𝐖𝐇𝐀𝐓 𝐈𝐓’𝐒 𝐀𝐁𝐎𝐔𝐓
What price would you pay to undo a death?
In the shadowed streets of Aspizia, two thieves—Lyo Morandi and Jasper Bray—risk everything to rewrite the past. Haunted by the death of their friend Milo, they set their sights on a forbidden prize: a ring reputed to alter time.
To steal it, they must infiltrate the Thieves’ Carousel, a ruthless exhibition where the city’s most dangerous criminals flaunt their treasures—and fight to keep them. But as Lyo and Jasper descend deeper into the catacombs beneath Aspizia, they uncover a truth far more dangerous than they imagined: the ring’s power comes at a devastating cost.
Loyalties splinter. Betrayal lurks around every corner. Loyalties splinter. As the game turns deadly, they must ask themselves: How far will they go to rescue the past and save the future—and how much of themselves are they willing to lose?
• 𝐌𝐘 𝐓𝐇𝐎𝐔𝐆𝐇𝐓𝐒
This was a bit difficult for me as it contained a lot of world building and character development rather than action. I understand why it was done, as this is just book one in a new series, but I wish that more had happened to help push the story along. I did enjoy the darkness of the story and the darkness of the characters. The world they live in felt so ominous and that really shone through in the story. Overall I’m looking forward to seeing what happens next in book 2!
November 29, 2025
The Thieves' Carousel starts off the series called, The Carousel Series. It is, also, the debut novel for talented author, Briana Chen. I thought it was a wonderful and thrilling story that shows beautiful life lessons of second chances, effect of our choices, forgiveness, and letting go. I enjoyed getting the characters. They have experienced such tragic loss and grief. The emotional details made them seem realistic and sometimes relatable. Lyo and Jasper finds themselves into an adventure that included intrigue, action, and danger. i have to admit I am not usually a fantasy fan, however, this one had me captivated right from the start. There were so many twists and turns that I never knew what would occur from scene to scene. I wanted to keep reading for find out how i would all end for these two characters that I began to admire so much.
I am going to give The Thieves' Carousel a very well deserved five plus stars. I have no doubt fans of fantasy and thriller genre of books will, also enjoy it as much as me. I would love to continue The Carousel Series to see what happens next and what Briana Chen has in store for their characters. I can not wait for it release in the near future.
I received a paperback copy of Briana Chen's The Thieves' Carousel from the publisher, but was not required to write a positive review. This review is one hundred percent my own honest opinion.
I am going to give The Thieves' Carousel a very well deserved five plus stars. I have no doubt fans of fantasy and thriller genre of books will, also enjoy it as much as me. I would love to continue The Carousel Series to see what happens next and what Briana Chen has in store for their characters. I can not wait for it release in the near future.
I received a paperback copy of Briana Chen's The Thieves' Carousel from the publisher, but was not required to write a positive review. This review is one hundred percent my own honest opinion.
December 12, 2025
In the gritty city of Aspizia, two thieves, Lyo Morandi and Jasper Bray, chase the one thing they should never desire: the power to change time. Still grieving their friend Milo’s death, they enter the Thieves’ Carousel, a perilous underground showcase where criminals parade their prized possessions and guard them with ruthless pride. Their target is a mythical ring said to twist time itself, but stealing it drags them into a deadly maze of catacombs, rival thieves, secrets older than the city. As the ring reveals its terrifying cost, friendships strain, loyalty fractures, and the boys must choose between saving the past and surviving the present. Every step forward demands a sacrifice, and the price of hope may be far greater than loss itself.
With imperfect characters and brilliant writing, this book is a delight. The Thieves’ Carousel itself is such a wild concept. Every room has a story, every thief has an ego. Every choice comes with consequences. I genuinely enjoyed the journey. It gives out action, emotion, and a lingering question: what would someone trade for one more moment with someone they loved?
Briana Chen deserves full applause for creating a world that feels fresh and still dangerous. The writing flows with ease, the atmosphere is vivid enough to picture like a movie. It is rare to see a fantasy heist novel that also explores grief and friendship with such clarity.
With imperfect characters and brilliant writing, this book is a delight. The Thieves’ Carousel itself is such a wild concept. Every room has a story, every thief has an ego. Every choice comes with consequences. I genuinely enjoyed the journey. It gives out action, emotion, and a lingering question: what would someone trade for one more moment with someone they loved?
Briana Chen deserves full applause for creating a world that feels fresh and still dangerous. The writing flows with ease, the atmosphere is vivid enough to picture like a movie. It is rare to see a fantasy heist novel that also explores grief and friendship with such clarity.
December 13, 2025
The Thieves’ Carousel is one of those stories that sinks in quietly and then refuses to let go. From the very beginning, Lyo and Jasper aren’t just thieves chasing a magical artifact—they’re grieving young men carrying heavy emotional scars. Their shared loss of Milo is the beating heart of this novel, and every decision they make spirals outward from that wound. That alone gives the story more weight than the typical magical-heist premise.
But Briana Chen takes things further by grounding the fantasy in raw, uncomfortable emotional truths. The characters don’t stumble into danger blindly—they understand the risks, feel the dread, and still walk forward because hope, guilt, and loyalty pull harder than reason. That emotional complexity is what makes the story shine.
Aspizia is gorgeously atmospheric: a “city of masks and mirrors” where the truth is sharp enough to cut and everyone hides pieces of themselves to survive. The Thieves’ Carousel itself is a fascinating blend of spectacle and brutality, and the descent into the catacombs is filled with the kind of tension that sits in your chest.
This story is dark in the way grief is dark—not gratuitous, but deeply human. Sacrifice lives at the edge of every chapter. The characters are flawed, aching, and compelling, and their choices feel as inevitable as they are heartbreaking. I couldn’t look away.
This one stayed with me long after I closed the book.
But Briana Chen takes things further by grounding the fantasy in raw, uncomfortable emotional truths. The characters don’t stumble into danger blindly—they understand the risks, feel the dread, and still walk forward because hope, guilt, and loyalty pull harder than reason. That emotional complexity is what makes the story shine.
Aspizia is gorgeously atmospheric: a “city of masks and mirrors” where the truth is sharp enough to cut and everyone hides pieces of themselves to survive. The Thieves’ Carousel itself is a fascinating blend of spectacle and brutality, and the descent into the catacombs is filled with the kind of tension that sits in your chest.
This story is dark in the way grief is dark—not gratuitous, but deeply human. Sacrifice lives at the edge of every chapter. The characters are flawed, aching, and compelling, and their choices feel as inevitable as they are heartbreaking. I couldn’t look away.
This one stayed with me long after I closed the book.
November 7, 2025
Dark Fantasy at Its Finest—Emotionally Gripping and Atmospheric...
The Thieves' Carousel absolutely hooked me from page one. Briana Chen has created this incredible dark fantasy heist that just doesn't let up. The whole thing follows these two thieves, Lyo and Jasper, who are basically drowning in grief and end up diving headfirst into the nastiest part of Aspizia's criminal underworld. What starts as a desperate grab for some time-bending ring turns into something way deeper—this really raw look at friendship, what we're willing to sacrifice, and whether we actually deserve do-overs.
Chen's writing is gorgeous—she paints these shadowy underground scenes and the deadly Thieves' Carousel so vividly you can practically see it playing out like a movie. The tension between Lyo and Jasper feels incredibly real and messy in the best way. But what really sets this debut apart from your typical fantasy book is how much heart it has. You genuinely ache for these characters, feel how broken their friendship is, and understand why they'd risk absolutely everything for a shot at making things right.
This isn't just some clever heist plot—it's this gut-wrenching story about love, loss, and what happens when you try to outsmart fate itself. Highly recommended.
The Thieves' Carousel absolutely hooked me from page one. Briana Chen has created this incredible dark fantasy heist that just doesn't let up. The whole thing follows these two thieves, Lyo and Jasper, who are basically drowning in grief and end up diving headfirst into the nastiest part of Aspizia's criminal underworld. What starts as a desperate grab for some time-bending ring turns into something way deeper—this really raw look at friendship, what we're willing to sacrifice, and whether we actually deserve do-overs.
Chen's writing is gorgeous—she paints these shadowy underground scenes and the deadly Thieves' Carousel so vividly you can practically see it playing out like a movie. The tension between Lyo and Jasper feels incredibly real and messy in the best way. But what really sets this debut apart from your typical fantasy book is how much heart it has. You genuinely ache for these characters, feel how broken their friendship is, and understand why they'd risk absolutely everything for a shot at making things right.
This isn't just some clever heist plot—it's this gut-wrenching story about love, loss, and what happens when you try to outsmart fate itself. Highly recommended.
December 10, 2025
I really got lost in this book. The pacing keeps you moving, but Chen also takes the time to make Aspizia feel like a real, breathing city - dark, dangerous, and full of unexpected corners. The Thieves’ Carousel is chaotic and tense, and every scene there keeps you guessing.
Jasper and Lyo are fantastic. They’re stubborn, gritty, and deeply human, and the way they handle losing their friend is subtle but hits hard. Their grief, their loyalty, and their messy, complicated bond make their journey feel grounded and real. It’s not dramatic for the sake of drama, it’s just honest.
What impressed me most is how the story balances danger and emotion. The stakes are high, the tension is constant, but you also feel the weight of every decision the characters make. Chen’s writing paints scenes vividly without overexplaining, and the way she shows the cracks in the friendship and the risks they take gives the story real heart.
This is the kind of fantasy that’s dark, clever, and full of feeling. If you enjoy imaginative worlds, morally complex characters, and a story that lingers after you finish it, this one will stick with you. I’m excited to see where the next book goes.
Jasper and Lyo are fantastic. They’re stubborn, gritty, and deeply human, and the way they handle losing their friend is subtle but hits hard. Their grief, their loyalty, and their messy, complicated bond make their journey feel grounded and real. It’s not dramatic for the sake of drama, it’s just honest.
What impressed me most is how the story balances danger and emotion. The stakes are high, the tension is constant, but you also feel the weight of every decision the characters make. Chen’s writing paints scenes vividly without overexplaining, and the way she shows the cracks in the friendship and the risks they take gives the story real heart.
This is the kind of fantasy that’s dark, clever, and full of feeling. If you enjoy imaginative worlds, morally complex characters, and a story that lingers after you finish it, this one will stick with you. I’m excited to see where the next book goes.
September 11, 2025
Review: A very fine reading experience. "And why", you ask? Read on.
This story line barks right up my particular grungy alley. Thieving guilds, confidence men whom laugh in dangers face while making the ladies hearts flutter. Stalwart companions that talk sense under the umbrella of a myriad of quests. Lyo and Jasper are great MCs and the supporting cast lends credibility to the story line. Constant movement helps build their characters, and that my friends, is hard to do.
If you want to keep gazing at stars, do not go to the authors webpage. It is quite the journey through the eyes of someone whom is not that aware of themselves. Despite the rampant ego, I think this novel should have been named "A Carousel of Thieves". Has a better ring to it and fits the story line better.
I received this ARC for an honest review.
4.2/5
This story line barks right up my particular grungy alley. Thieving guilds, confidence men whom laugh in dangers face while making the ladies hearts flutter. Stalwart companions that talk sense under the umbrella of a myriad of quests. Lyo and Jasper are great MCs and the supporting cast lends credibility to the story line. Constant movement helps build their characters, and that my friends, is hard to do.
If you want to keep gazing at stars, do not go to the authors webpage. It is quite the journey through the eyes of someone whom is not that aware of themselves. Despite the rampant ego, I think this novel should have been named "A Carousel of Thieves". Has a better ring to it and fits the story line better.
I received this ARC for an honest review.
4.2/5
November 27, 2025
Thank you so much for the chance to read The Thieves’ Carousel. This book hooked me right away with its dark vibes, fast pacing, and the emotional friendship at its core. Lyo and Jasper are the kind of characters you root for even when they make messy choices, and their grief for Milo gives the story so much heart.
I loved how the book mixes danger, magic, and raw emotion. The world of Aspizia feels gritty and alive, and the idea of a time-bending ring is both tempting and terrifying. The twists, the betrayals, the sacrifices—everything kept me turning the pages. If you enjoy dark fantasy with strong bonds, high stakes, and the question of how far we’d go for a second chance, this is definitely worth reading.
I loved how the book mixes danger, magic, and raw emotion. The world of Aspizia feels gritty and alive, and the idea of a time-bending ring is both tempting and terrifying. The twists, the betrayals, the sacrifices—everything kept me turning the pages. If you enjoy dark fantasy with strong bonds, high stakes, and the question of how far we’d go for a second chance, this is definitely worth reading.
October 27, 2025
The Thieves Carousel was an interesting read for me.
I loved the political plot piece of a den of thieves that are really in control of the country.
The worldbuilding was well done, we slowly got to know the characters, and the plot was well written.
some of the snags I had that didn't make this book a perfect 5 stars.
Sometimes we would time skip a couple weeks, days, months and we didn't have any indication of that until it was brought up pages later.
The voices can blend together during dialogue and it was hard to follow.
The pieces and lore came about naturally in the story, but I am still wanting to know more about the structure of the families and groups. Or why the history of the place came to be.
Overall it was an enjoyable read.
I loved the political plot piece of a den of thieves that are really in control of the country.
The worldbuilding was well done, we slowly got to know the characters, and the plot was well written.
some of the snags I had that didn't make this book a perfect 5 stars.
Sometimes we would time skip a couple weeks, days, months and we didn't have any indication of that until it was brought up pages later.
The voices can blend together during dialogue and it was hard to follow.
The pieces and lore came about naturally in the story, but I am still wanting to know more about the structure of the families and groups. Or why the history of the place came to be.
Overall it was an enjoyable read.
November 21, 2025
You know a piece of literature is very good when it mixed thieves with political intrigue and add some fantasy to it. This book has epic world building (the kind that makes me jealous lol) it's a unique reading experience especially when you're in a reading slump.
Jasper and Lyo brought me back to the days when literature featuring thieves were all the rage (it's still is now but I'm in a reading slump). This book is exciting, thrilling and really enjoyable while making you think. Jas and Lyo are the best duo. The Thieves Carousel is exhilarating book that y'all need to read if you like The Smoke Thieves and Six of Crows.
Jasper and Lyo brought me back to the days when literature featuring thieves were all the rage (it's still is now but I'm in a reading slump). This book is exciting, thrilling and really enjoyable while making you think. Jas and Lyo are the best duo. The Thieves Carousel is exhilarating book that y'all need to read if you like The Smoke Thieves and Six of Crows.
October 30, 2025
Thieves, time travel, and a whole lotta trouble—yes please! ⏳✨
Okay, so The Thieves’ Carousel totally stole my heart (and maybe a few hours of sleep). Lyo and Jasper are the kind of chaotic duo you root for even when you know they’re about to make terrible, beautiful choices. The action? Wild. The emotions? Messy in the best way. And that ending? Oof. I couldn’t put it down—every page felt like a dare to read just one more. If you like danger, feels, and a touch of heartbreak wrapped in gorgeous writing, this book is your next obsession. 💎💀🔥
Okay, so The Thieves’ Carousel totally stole my heart (and maybe a few hours of sleep). Lyo and Jasper are the kind of chaotic duo you root for even when you know they’re about to make terrible, beautiful choices. The action? Wild. The emotions? Messy in the best way. And that ending? Oof. I couldn’t put it down—every page felt like a dare to read just one more. If you like danger, feels, and a touch of heartbreak wrapped in gorgeous writing, this book is your next obsession. 💎💀🔥
September 13, 2025
I loved everything about this book! Fast paced story with unique and incredible world building. I loved Jasper and Lyo’s characters. They had so much determination and grit. The grief that came from the characters losing their friend was very profound and accurately portrayed what losing someone so close to you feels like. I look forward to reading the rest of this series when it releases.
Thank you NetGalley for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Thank you NetGalley for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
October 24, 2025
The Thieves' Carousel is entertaining and thoughtful from beginning to end. The structure was delightful and well thought out which made it easy to read. It's fast pace is exhilarating and has you gasping at every turn. The author has created realistic characters who experience grief just like us. It's the finest blend of realism, magic and mystery and I can't wait for the next one. The world building plot is a terrifying and exciting mix.
December 1, 2025
I love when you mix fantasy with political intrigue, and this series is off to a great start!
While I wish more HAPPENED in this book... I loved the characters and the world in which they live. It is clear that a lot of time and love went into these characters and the friendship they have forged through all of their trials.
Book one is clearly setting the stage for the series, being mainly world building and character development, with very little action. I'll be honest, it was a slog to read at times. I am very much looking forward to picking up book two though!!
While I wish more HAPPENED in this book... I loved the characters and the world in which they live. It is clear that a lot of time and love went into these characters and the friendship they have forged through all of their trials.
Book one is clearly setting the stage for the series, being mainly world building and character development, with very little action. I'll be honest, it was a slog to read at times. I am very much looking forward to picking up book two though!!
November 17, 2025
This is the perfect book for those who love both dark and gritty, and fantasy, and also for those who love books with hidden layers, with tarot and other symbols embedded deep in the story. The story is action-packed, yet it's also character-driven. Intricate, dark, emotional, mystical, and compelling.
November 19, 2025
I loved the concept of a time altering ring, and Lyo and Jasper’s quest through the thieves’ carousel to steal it to save their friend. Lyo and Jasper are flawed and grieving, which made them more endearing and invested me in their story. I also enjoyed the world building and the descriptive details of Aspizia. Fans of dark fantasy and unique storylines will love this book.
November 25, 2025
this was such a great read!!! always love a bit of morally grey characters and especially thieves 😋 they're so fun to explore and I believe the author did an excellent job.
lyo and jasper are a delight as characters and the world briana built feels so cool. the cool art I saw commissioned doesn't hurt either so yeah😋 do read this one!
lyo and jasper are a delight as characters and the world briana built feels so cool. the cool art I saw commissioned doesn't hurt either so yeah😋 do read this one!
December 31, 2025
This is a gripping fantasy set in a dark world of secret societies and thieves. Lyo and Jasper want to play the Mago’s trial to bring back their friend Milo. However, it comes at a cost. This story kept me guessing until the end. It was fast paced and thrilling!
The Thieves Carousel is a thrilling fantasy!
The Thieves Carousel is a thrilling fantasy!
November 13, 2025
very good!
November 19, 2025
i think it’s safe to say that i’m obsessed. the thieves’ carousel is one of those fantasy stories that completely pulls you in from the very first page. it is set in the shadowy city of aspizia, it follows lyo and jasper, two thieves who would do anything to bring back their lost friend, even if it means stealing a ring that can twist time itself. but nothing about this world is simple, and the deeper they go into the thieves’ carousel, the more you start to realize this isn’t just a heist, it’s a story about grief, guilt, and the dangerous wish to undo the past.
this book has everything i love in dark fantasy, it has morally gray characters, tension that builds with every chapter, and writing that feels almost poetic. the relationship between lyo and jasper is written with so much depth, their loyalty, anger, and heartbreak feel painfully real. and the world-building is hauntingly beautiful. briana brings aspizia to life with eerie alleyways, glittering danger, and that constant sense that something powerful and tragic is waiting around the corner.
the thieves’ carousel made me think about how far we’d go to fix what’s broken, and whether it’s ever really worth the cost. it’s haunting, emotional, and completely unforgettable, a book that lingers long after the last page.
this book has everything i love in dark fantasy, it has morally gray characters, tension that builds with every chapter, and writing that feels almost poetic. the relationship between lyo and jasper is written with so much depth, their loyalty, anger, and heartbreak feel painfully real. and the world-building is hauntingly beautiful. briana brings aspizia to life with eerie alleyways, glittering danger, and that constant sense that something powerful and tragic is waiting around the corner.
the thieves’ carousel made me think about how far we’d go to fix what’s broken, and whether it’s ever really worth the cost. it’s haunting, emotional, and completely unforgettable, a book that lingers long after the last page.
October 31, 2025
The Thieves’ Carousel is one of those books that grabs you from the first line and doesn’t let go until you’ve tumbled, breathless, through every twist and turn. Lyo and Jasper aren’t just thieves—they’re broken souls chasing redemption, and their desperate attempt to steal time itself hits with raw emotion and moral weight. The writing is rich, the world of Aspizia feels darkly alive, and the stakes kept building until I had to know how it would all end. I loved how it explored love, loyalty, and the danger of wishing life could rewind. This story lingered with me long after I closed the book.
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