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The Zagreus Den #2
The Housebreaker's Assistant
238 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 15, 2026
About the author
Merry Farmer
311 books1,161 followersUSA Today Bestselling author Merry Farmer lives in suburban Philadelphia with her two cats, Justine and Peter. She has been writing since she was ten years old and realized she didn't have to wait for the teacher to assign a creative writing project to write something. It was the best day of her life. Her books have reached the top of Amazon's charts, and have been named finalists for several prestigious awards, including the RONE Award for indie romance.
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Displaying 1 - 25 of 25 reviews
June 18, 2026
Until I picked up book 1 of this series, it has been since Feb 2024 since I read a book by Merry Farmer. I saw the covers of these 2 and they looked interesting. This is my 26th book by her. I read my first book of hers in Jan. 2020 and didn't pick her up again until Apr, 2021 when she wrote Second Chance Manor series with Scarlett Scott and Caroline Lee.
I liked Penny and Greer. It's crazy what gay men went through back in those days. I loved the adventure, although for a sad reason but the intrigue of a rescue destined to fail. Overall a good read. Definitely want to hear Lord Fabian's story.
I liked Penny and Greer. It's crazy what gay men went through back in those days. I loved the adventure, although for a sad reason but the intrigue of a rescue destined to fail. Overall a good read. Definitely want to hear Lord Fabian's story.
May 22, 2026
The Housebreaker’s Assistant is a continuation of the background story begun in The Photographer’s Apprentice (book 1 of The Zagreus Den series) with the kidnapping and imprisoning of young Lord Fabian by 1800s human traffickers. Book 1 introduced us to Charlie and Johnathan as they tried to help the young lord escape, but their plan was foiled and they are now living in the Zagreus Den, a private club and brothel in London for gay men, hoping to help from behind the scenes.
Next to get involved are Greer, a housebreaking thief extraordinaire, and Penny, a streetwise, cocky young pickpocket. The two have met and know each other casually, both are attracted to the other although nothing has transpired between them, except those late night imaginings in the dark. When Greer is given a commission by the owners of the Zagrius Den to break into a castle to rescue Lord Fabian, Greer is shocked when they want him to take Penny along to help. Greer works alone, always has, plans to continue that way, but Brutus and Titus are adamant, so convincing Penny to go along becomes his next mission. Much of the story revolves around the developing relationship between Greer and Penny, the ways they work well together and the ways they don’t, who is in control and who follows their own game plan, and how perfect planning versus flying by the seat of your pants can actually work out when attempting a rescue. There is flirty banter, hot spicy scenes, spying, danger, improvisation, luck, suspense, and a daring getaway (you know it has to happen for the series to continue), all leading up to a setup for book 3.
The story is entertaining yet suspenseful, with seriousness and humor, the characters are likable and engaging, the continuation of Lord Fabian’s story transitions easily from book 1 to book 2, and along with learning more about our MCs, we learn more about the Zagrius Den, why it was formed, what goes on inside its walls, and what it does for the outside world. The world-building in London and the seaside enhances the tale, helping to create those good mind pictures that I love when reading a book that draws me into its place and time. If you like stories set in 1800s England with aristocrats and the criminal elements, interesting characters and situations, and above all finding the love of your life in unexpected places, this may be a series for you. I have enjoyed it so far, I think you would, too.
I received an ARC from the author and this is my voluntary review.
Next to get involved are Greer, a housebreaking thief extraordinaire, and Penny, a streetwise, cocky young pickpocket. The two have met and know each other casually, both are attracted to the other although nothing has transpired between them, except those late night imaginings in the dark. When Greer is given a commission by the owners of the Zagrius Den to break into a castle to rescue Lord Fabian, Greer is shocked when they want him to take Penny along to help. Greer works alone, always has, plans to continue that way, but Brutus and Titus are adamant, so convincing Penny to go along becomes his next mission. Much of the story revolves around the developing relationship between Greer and Penny, the ways they work well together and the ways they don’t, who is in control and who follows their own game plan, and how perfect planning versus flying by the seat of your pants can actually work out when attempting a rescue. There is flirty banter, hot spicy scenes, spying, danger, improvisation, luck, suspense, and a daring getaway (you know it has to happen for the series to continue), all leading up to a setup for book 3.
The story is entertaining yet suspenseful, with seriousness and humor, the characters are likable and engaging, the continuation of Lord Fabian’s story transitions easily from book 1 to book 2, and along with learning more about our MCs, we learn more about the Zagrius Den, why it was formed, what goes on inside its walls, and what it does for the outside world. The world-building in London and the seaside enhances the tale, helping to create those good mind pictures that I love when reading a book that draws me into its place and time. If you like stories set in 1800s England with aristocrats and the criminal elements, interesting characters and situations, and above all finding the love of your life in unexpected places, this may be a series for you. I have enjoyed it so far, I think you would, too.
I received an ARC from the author and this is my voluntary review.
May 18, 2026
This was the first book I’ve read from this series and it seems like the books can be read as standalone books. It’s an MM historical romance that is very well written. The two main characters Percival (Penny) Frey and Greer O’Toole have great chemistry. Both have had tragic childhoods, growing up in the poorest parts of London but have grown into men who want to make a difference in whatever way they can. They have been flirting with each other secretly for a while. Penny is younger than Greer. Greer also finds Penny cocky and finds he can take unnecessary chances.
Penny is an excellent pickpocket, teaching his skills to the younger poor and homeless kids in his area so they can eat and survive on their own without having to be drawn into darker ways of making money. Greer is a fantastic housebreaker, who can be in and out of a house without being noticed, taking whatever is asked for. He has always and always will work alone. Greer is asked to come to an exclusive club called The Zagreus Den, where men’s fantasies can come true. The owners of the club Brutus and Titus task Greer with a job of rescuing the son of an aristocrat who was kidnapped and was being held in Cornwall. The brothers wanted Greer to have an assistant to help him with this job and the man who they want to help Greer is Penny. After proving that they can work well together on a job in London, Penny tells Greer he can’t go to Cornwall even though the reward would be life changing. When Greer finds out why Penny is tied to London they go to Brutus and Titus and they agree to look after Penny’s responsibility while they go rescue Lord Fabian.
The two men have some steamy scenes together that are well written and fit perfectly into the plot. There’s some angst in the story but not enough to not want to turn the page to read what happens. It was nice to see how Penny proved his worth to Greer as they have some opposing views on how to do things which was fun to read about. The two come to some decisions about their lives while they are away. The rescue of Lord Fabian was the most angst in the story. I really enjoyed this book and the characters. Penny is lovable and cheeky, Greer more serious but both are sensitive and interesting. I look forward to catching up on the first book and then the rest of the series as they come out.
I received a special copy of the book from the author. I’m voluntarily leaving this review.
Penny is an excellent pickpocket, teaching his skills to the younger poor and homeless kids in his area so they can eat and survive on their own without having to be drawn into darker ways of making money. Greer is a fantastic housebreaker, who can be in and out of a house without being noticed, taking whatever is asked for. He has always and always will work alone. Greer is asked to come to an exclusive club called The Zagreus Den, where men’s fantasies can come true. The owners of the club Brutus and Titus task Greer with a job of rescuing the son of an aristocrat who was kidnapped and was being held in Cornwall. The brothers wanted Greer to have an assistant to help him with this job and the man who they want to help Greer is Penny. After proving that they can work well together on a job in London, Penny tells Greer he can’t go to Cornwall even though the reward would be life changing. When Greer finds out why Penny is tied to London they go to Brutus and Titus and they agree to look after Penny’s responsibility while they go rescue Lord Fabian.
The two men have some steamy scenes together that are well written and fit perfectly into the plot. There’s some angst in the story but not enough to not want to turn the page to read what happens. It was nice to see how Penny proved his worth to Greer as they have some opposing views on how to do things which was fun to read about. The two come to some decisions about their lives while they are away. The rescue of Lord Fabian was the most angst in the story. I really enjoyed this book and the characters. Penny is lovable and cheeky, Greer more serious but both are sensitive and interesting. I look forward to catching up on the first book and then the rest of the series as they come out.
I received a special copy of the book from the author. I’m voluntarily leaving this review.
May 28, 2026
The Housebreaker’s Assistant is the second book in ‘the Zagreus Den’ series. It stars Greer O’Toole, an accomplished housebreaker, and Penny Frey, a talented pickpocket. This is told in third person from Greer and Penny’s pov.
I’m really enjoying this series. It’s more complicated than the Brotherhood series, and this book is more intense than the first one.
The plot revolves around Greer and Penny being recruited by Brutus and Titus of the Zagreus Den to rescue Lord Fabian from human traffickers. Lord Fabian appeared in Book One and was recently moved to an isolated castle along the coastline. The castle is supposedly difficult to get in and out of. That is why Greer and Penny, who are the best thieves, are sent on a mission to retrieve Lord Fabian. During the mission, Greer tries to fight his attraction for Penny, but Penny is cleverer than Greer expected, and his respect and attraction for Penny grows.
The book is set up with the first half laying out the attraction between Greer and Penny, and how they interact when they are out on the streets. Next Greer is given the job of rescuing Lord Fabian, but he must get Penny to work with him. Greer has always worked alone and doesn’t like the idea. Penny refuses at first because he can’t leave London for personal reasons. Eventually things are agreed upon and the second half of the book is about the trip to Cornwall and the hazardous rescue of Lord Fabian.
The characters had distinct voices and personalities, and Greer and Penny fit well together. I liked that Penny wasn’t a push-over, that he stood up to others and to Greer, who automatically tried to assume the role of ‘Master’ over Penny when at the Zagreus Den, but Penny took loud exception to being called a ‘boy.’ Penny is a good match for Greer. I could believe in them as a couple.
I thoroughly enjoyed The Housebreaker’s Assistant, and give it a solid 5 Stars.
I received and ARC from the author. This is my honest and unbiased review.
I’m really enjoying this series. It’s more complicated than the Brotherhood series, and this book is more intense than the first one.
The plot revolves around Greer and Penny being recruited by Brutus and Titus of the Zagreus Den to rescue Lord Fabian from human traffickers. Lord Fabian appeared in Book One and was recently moved to an isolated castle along the coastline. The castle is supposedly difficult to get in and out of. That is why Greer and Penny, who are the best thieves, are sent on a mission to retrieve Lord Fabian. During the mission, Greer tries to fight his attraction for Penny, but Penny is cleverer than Greer expected, and his respect and attraction for Penny grows.
The book is set up with the first half laying out the attraction between Greer and Penny, and how they interact when they are out on the streets. Next Greer is given the job of rescuing Lord Fabian, but he must get Penny to work with him. Greer has always worked alone and doesn’t like the idea. Penny refuses at first because he can’t leave London for personal reasons. Eventually things are agreed upon and the second half of the book is about the trip to Cornwall and the hazardous rescue of Lord Fabian.
The characters had distinct voices and personalities, and Greer and Penny fit well together. I liked that Penny wasn’t a push-over, that he stood up to others and to Greer, who automatically tried to assume the role of ‘Master’ over Penny when at the Zagreus Den, but Penny took loud exception to being called a ‘boy.’ Penny is a good match for Greer. I could believe in them as a couple.
I thoroughly enjoyed The Housebreaker’s Assistant, and give it a solid 5 Stars.
I received and ARC from the author. This is my honest and unbiased review.
Review of advance copy received from Author
This is the second installment of the Zagreus Den series and while the couple itself is new, I think you gain more of the underlying story if you read the first book as well.
I love the stunning cover, it gives a definitely different vibe from your usual fare of history romance.
Merry Farmer does a brilliant job describing the underbelly of late 19th century London and especially Whitechapel. I love that this is not your average historical romance with Dukes aplenty but the focus is on how the lowest class lives, survives and the crime happening everywhere.
Here we have the housebreaker, Greer is someone who survived the streets, made a name of himself and a fortune as being a sucessful thief. Tasked by the owner of the Zagreus Den with rescuing a trafficked young man he is now thrown together with pickpocketer Penny who survives the streets and taking care of his disabled sister. There is plenty of attraction but Greer is a careful soul.
I love how Penny is the opposite to Greer, spontaneous and lively even when Greer could happily kill him a couple of times when Penny‘s ideas are more than just crazy on the first look. Their time in Cornwall is quite adventures and while some sound a bit unbelievable it keeps on you on your toes to see how it will all be solved.
It‘s a great tale, even if it‘s a bit insta-love. I would have loved to see how they plan their future, the book ends quite abruptly. But the epilogue is giving us a hint in what will come next and I think that will ben another great tale.
I love the stunning cover, it gives a definitely different vibe from your usual fare of history romance.
Merry Farmer does a brilliant job describing the underbelly of late 19th century London and especially Whitechapel. I love that this is not your average historical romance with Dukes aplenty but the focus is on how the lowest class lives, survives and the crime happening everywhere.
Here we have the housebreaker, Greer is someone who survived the streets, made a name of himself and a fortune as being a sucessful thief. Tasked by the owner of the Zagreus Den with rescuing a trafficked young man he is now thrown together with pickpocketer Penny who survives the streets and taking care of his disabled sister. There is plenty of attraction but Greer is a careful soul.
I love how Penny is the opposite to Greer, spontaneous and lively even when Greer could happily kill him a couple of times when Penny‘s ideas are more than just crazy on the first look. Their time in Cornwall is quite adventures and while some sound a bit unbelievable it keeps on you on your toes to see how it will all be solved.
It‘s a great tale, even if it‘s a bit insta-love. I would have loved to see how they plan their future, the book ends quite abruptly. But the epilogue is giving us a hint in what will come next and I think that will ben another great tale.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Percival “Penny” Frey survives by his wits in the shadows of Whitechapel, lifting coins from careless nobles and dreaming of a life far beyond his station, a life where he and his sister Helen are finally safe. Greer O’Toole is already everything Penny wants to be: England’s most notorious housebreaker and utterly out of Penny’s reach. Until one mission changes everything. Sent to infiltrate Trebarral Castle and rescue Lord Fabian, who’s been kidnapped, Greer is forced to take Penny on as his assistant, which is a distraction he can’t afford. Because Greer has wanted Penny for far too long, and the spark between them is anything but subtle.
The second book in the series & it could be read on its own but the story involving Fabian follows on from the first book. So as is my wont I’d recommend reading in order, you won’t be disappointed as once again the author has knocked it out of the ball park. It’s action packed, it has edge of the seat moments, it’s got humour, tenderness, steam, sizzling chemistry & wonderful characters. I loved both Penny & Greer who were perfect for each other & loved how their relationship deepened on their mission impossible. I’m now impatiently awaiting the next book
I voluntarily read and reviewed a special copy of this book; all thoughts and opinions are my own
The second book in the series & it could be read on its own but the story involving Fabian follows on from the first book. So as is my wont I’d recommend reading in order, you won’t be disappointed as once again the author has knocked it out of the ball park. It’s action packed, it has edge of the seat moments, it’s got humour, tenderness, steam, sizzling chemistry & wonderful characters. I loved both Penny & Greer who were perfect for each other & loved how their relationship deepened on their mission impossible. I’m now impatiently awaiting the next book
I voluntarily read and reviewed a special copy of this book; all thoughts and opinions are my own
Review of advance copy received from Author
This is the second book in The Zagreus Den Series. It follows on from The Photographer's Apprentice where the subplot of the search and rescue of Lord Fabian continues. The Zagreus Den owners Brutus and Titus enlist the help of the best housebreaker in England named Greer. Brutus and Titus insist that Greer take Percival aka Penny one of the best pickpockets in London with him to the Cornwall coast to break into a castle to rescue Lord Fabian. However, Greer always works alone but is quite smitten with Penny and has been for a while. So he begrudgingly agrees to Penny coming along for the rescue mission. The journey is full of trials and along the journey you get to witness the relationship develop between Greer and Penny. What is a mission impossible scenario without a bit of danger or a lot of it.
You could read this book as a standalone however it is so much more enriched by the depth of characters explained in these first two books. The reason for the urgency of the mission and rescue of Lord Fabian is teased at the end of this book and will be fully explored in the third book of the series. I can't wait to read it.
You could read this book as a standalone however it is so much more enriched by the depth of characters explained in these first two books. The reason for the urgency of the mission and rescue of Lord Fabian is teased at the end of this book and will be fully explored in the third book of the series. I can't wait to read it.
May 16, 2026
Greer and Penny dive into peril
Greer and Penny are the couple that this latest book in The Zagreus Den series focuses on and there is a lot of action, adventure and peril in this story, more so than most of Merry Farmer’s tales. They are matched together and end up going off to find a young Lord who has been taken. The Zagreus Den serves as a place of refuge for males who like other men, much like The Brotherhood and The Chameleon Club do in her other books. I love this idea of them helping each other and although I know that what they did have back then was probably not quite so organized I like to think that some of them found love and safety like Penny and Greer do in this story.
A big part of what I love about Ms Farmer’s stories is this writing or re writing of history that has traditionally edited out the parts that the establishment didn’t want to admit was there all along. I started out reading MF Regency romance and have followed Ms Farmer into the MM because I find there to be so much more interesting tales to be told. I love the knowledge of history that she brings to her writing and the way she fits these characters into her writing. Another hit!
Greer and Penny are the couple that this latest book in The Zagreus Den series focuses on and there is a lot of action, adventure and peril in this story, more so than most of Merry Farmer’s tales. They are matched together and end up going off to find a young Lord who has been taken. The Zagreus Den serves as a place of refuge for males who like other men, much like The Brotherhood and The Chameleon Club do in her other books. I love this idea of them helping each other and although I know that what they did have back then was probably not quite so organized I like to think that some of them found love and safety like Penny and Greer do in this story.
A big part of what I love about Ms Farmer’s stories is this writing or re writing of history that has traditionally edited out the parts that the establishment didn’t want to admit was there all along. I started out reading MF Regency romance and have followed Ms Farmer into the MM because I find there to be so much more interesting tales to be told. I love the knowledge of history that she brings to her writing and the way she fits these characters into her writing. Another hit!
May 20, 2026
A fast paced romance between morally grey men. Penny has been making his own way on the streets of London for a long time, he even helps the younger urchins learn the pickpocketing skills that have sustained him. And he's always had a thing for the older housebreaker, Greer. They've been dancing around one another for a long time but an assignment from the owners of the Zagreus Den pleasure club gives them the first chance to work together. The plot of this story goes along at a really fast clip, there is not a lot of space between the action. Turns out though that the danger is a bit of an aphrodisiac for these guys and they do take advantage. I liked that as their relationship deepens, the danger part becomes less appealing. They don't want the person they love being hurt. Penny has a complicated home life that Greer just accepts and that is lovely to see. These two MCs are not necessarily "good guys" but they also fight for those who are more vulnerable than themselves, so that redeems them in my book. It was a fun read and I look forward to more in the series. Would totally recommend.
Review of advance copy
It’s a story that I enjoyed but it appears there are unanswered questions that hopefully the next story answers. I enjoyed the storyline because it’s full of emotions and danger. Both Greer and Penny suffer trauma from their childhood that still haunts them. They become closer as they work on a rescue mission that is further noted in the next story. Penny became a quick favorite of mine because of his love and devotion to Helen. I was surprised that the relationship between Greer and Penny appears to have no conclusion except they “ love each other.” Not sure what happened to Helen since there was no real conclusion to the men’s relationship. This story leads into the next one of this series and hopefully it will answer some questions I have. It’s worth reading even if it has unanswered questions.
I received a free copy of this book via Bookfunnel and are voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Bookfunnel and are voluntarily leaving a review.
May 22, 2026
Greer and Penny -- The Rescue
The author gives us the story of a likable pickpocket named Percival Frey ("Penny") and a skilled housebreaker/burglar named Greer O’Toole who are hired by The Zagreus Den owners and tasked to rescue the young Lord Fabian, kidnapped and being held captive in Trebarral Castle (Book 1). Penny and Greer are attracted to each other, but this is the first time they will be working together. Greer is the more experienced thief; Penny is a gentle pickpocket who takes care of his sister and who teaches other struggling kids the skill of pick-pocketing so they can avoid having to put themselves at even greater risk just to stay alive on the cruel streets. Will the two of them be successful in their rescue adventure at the castle? And will their time together let them grow closer... and perhaps find love? Grab your copy and don't miss this exciting story that never slows down!
The author gives us the story of a likable pickpocket named Percival Frey ("Penny") and a skilled housebreaker/burglar named Greer O’Toole who are hired by The Zagreus Den owners and tasked to rescue the young Lord Fabian, kidnapped and being held captive in Trebarral Castle (Book 1). Penny and Greer are attracted to each other, but this is the first time they will be working together. Greer is the more experienced thief; Penny is a gentle pickpocket who takes care of his sister and who teaches other struggling kids the skill of pick-pocketing so they can avoid having to put themselves at even greater risk just to stay alive on the cruel streets. Will the two of them be successful in their rescue adventure at the castle? And will their time together let them grow closer... and perhaps find love? Grab your copy and don't miss this exciting story that never slows down!
May 23, 2026
4.5 stars
This is book two in the author’s Zagreus Den series featuring a safe space for young men of ‘a certain type’, forced to sell themselves or work in the workhouses in order to survive.
Unfortunately, I missed The Photographer’s Apprentice but, although I plan to rectify that, it’s not necessary in order to read and enjoy this one. I can’t tell you how exciting and nerve wracking this was! The danger and intrigue, the fear and even the fun, was so wonderfully written that, at times, my muscles were so incredibly tense, trying to help them along, help them escape… just HELP period.
I loved Penny and Greer’s HEA but I’m already looking forward to Brutus and Lord Fabian’s next as the storyline of the human traffickers escalates and the adventures of the Zagreus Den members continue. In the meantime, grab this one, it’s SO worth reading!!
I received a copy of this book for free but am voluntarily leaving a review.
This is book two in the author’s Zagreus Den series featuring a safe space for young men of ‘a certain type’, forced to sell themselves or work in the workhouses in order to survive.
Unfortunately, I missed The Photographer’s Apprentice but, although I plan to rectify that, it’s not necessary in order to read and enjoy this one. I can’t tell you how exciting and nerve wracking this was! The danger and intrigue, the fear and even the fun, was so wonderfully written that, at times, my muscles were so incredibly tense, trying to help them along, help them escape… just HELP period.
I loved Penny and Greer’s HEA but I’m already looking forward to Brutus and Lord Fabian’s next as the storyline of the human traffickers escalates and the adventures of the Zagreus Den members continue. In the meantime, grab this one, it’s SO worth reading!!
I received a copy of this book for free but am voluntarily leaving a review.
Review of advance copy received from Author
“He has a reputation for cleverness and a natural ability to get what he wants, even in the direst of situations"
This is book 2 in The Zagreus Den series by Merry Farmer. This is another five-star read, for me, in this series. I just love the cleverness of this author's writing and I never get bored reading her stories.
If you haven't read book 1, you need to start there. Each book plays off the last and you will be lost as to what is going on if you skip it.
In this book we have a young pickpocket and a seasoned housebreaker (burglar) paired together, for the first time, to rescue the young kidnapped Lord that was held captive in book 1. So much action, tension, and angst, I was on the edge of my seat for most of the book.
Can't wait for the next book in the series The Founder’s Treasure.
This is book 2 in The Zagreus Den series by Merry Farmer. This is another five-star read, for me, in this series. I just love the cleverness of this author's writing and I never get bored reading her stories.
If you haven't read book 1, you need to start there. Each book plays off the last and you will be lost as to what is going on if you skip it.
In this book we have a young pickpocket and a seasoned housebreaker (burglar) paired together, for the first time, to rescue the young kidnapped Lord that was held captive in book 1. So much action, tension, and angst, I was on the edge of my seat for most of the book.
Can't wait for the next book in the series The Founder’s Treasure.
May 23, 2026
The Housebreaker’s Assistant by Merry Farmer
Big picture: read book one and then book two. Both are a terrific mix of romance and suspense.
More thoughts, with some spoilers for book one*
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The Zagreus Den book two picks up soon after book one, and leads Greer, a renowned housebreaker, and Penny, a clever pickpocket, on a harrowing journey to attempt the rescue of Lord Fabian, a noble who has been stolen, abused, and drugged repeatedly. The story oscillates between wit and fear, with the reader pulled along in this fast paced suspense-romance. 5/5 and impatient for book three.
Big picture: read book one and then book two. Both are a terrific mix of romance and suspense.
More thoughts, with some spoilers for book one*
*
*
*
*
*
The Zagreus Den book two picks up soon after book one, and leads Greer, a renowned housebreaker, and Penny, a clever pickpocket, on a harrowing journey to attempt the rescue of Lord Fabian, a noble who has been stolen, abused, and drugged repeatedly. The story oscillates between wit and fear, with the reader pulled along in this fast paced suspense-romance. 5/5 and impatient for book three.
May 22, 2026
I loved this book, the story, the action, the historical aspect, the angst while staying fun and overall on the lighter side. I also loved both characters, on the grumpy/sunshine side, and while quite opposite they complement each other well. I enjoyed reading about the development of their relationship, but also about their own throughout the story. It's very well written and I recommend!
This is the second book of the Zagreus Den series and while it can be read as a standalone, I think it would be more enjoyable read in order.
I got an ARC and this is my honest review.
This is the second book of the Zagreus Den series and while it can be read as a standalone, I think it would be more enjoyable read in order.
I got an ARC and this is my honest review.
May 16, 2026
Penny and Greer story was fun and adventurous sprinkled with danger and adrenaline, while a rescue mission proves to be more difficult and had unexpected developments.
They fight their attraction, and their feelings thanks to past experiences, but everything is put into perspective when their lives are in danger.
This one left us with many questions as things seems to complicate, and a new challenge is on the horizon.
They fight their attraction, and their feelings thanks to past experiences, but everything is put into perspective when their lives are in danger.
This one left us with many questions as things seems to complicate, and a new challenge is on the horizon.
May 25, 2026
In Photographer’s Apprentice, Charlie discovers Fabian held captive at an estate, but he is moved before a rescue can be formulated. In this book Greer a housebreaker and Penny a thief are tasked to go to Cornwall where Fabian is currently a prisoner. He is being held in an old fortress/castle near the ocean. Fabian has been drugged, starved, abused and in terrible condition. This book keeps you at the edge of your chair with, danger, mystery, budding romance and so much more.
Review of advance copy received from Author
This was an action packed adventure full of steam, danger, humor, and had many twists and turns. I enjoyed reading and leaning about Greer and Penny. They were better together than alone and both had troubled unsavory upbringing yet learned to trust and love with each other. I gave it 4 stars bc I really would have liked to read more of what Greer and Penny's future in the Epilogue.
May 15, 2026
Another home run!! I loved this book. Sexy, smart, amazing men coming together for the rescue of a trafficed man? Sign me up. I loved how these guys just kept getting closer despite everything trying to pull them apart, including themselves. Kinda a different take on enemies to lovers. I cannot wait for the next book. I hope everyone gets their happy endings.
May 19, 2026
I've really been enjoying this series! With a rather difficult subject, there is still plenty of action, passion, and romance. The book has a great ending, but the larger story of the evil trafficking ring continues in the series. Penny and Greer make a delightful couple who have a lot of chemistry, as they learn that they are better off together than being alone. I look forward to the next book!
May 16, 2026
Wonderful story of Percival Frey, pickpocket and Greer O’Toole, housebreaker, forced to work together. The attraction is hot and the suspense will have you sitting on the edge of your seat. Can't recommend enough.
May 30, 2026
I love this series
I have read both books in The Zagreus Den series and I loved them both. Each book is a part of an overarching story of warring brothers, dastardly villains and good guy criminals. Highly recommend.
I have read both books in The Zagreus Den series and I loved them both. Each book is a part of an overarching story of warring brothers, dastardly villains and good guy criminals. Highly recommend.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Penny & Greer
This was an interesting read from start to finish. The maturity of both MCs in this story is vastly different from what we were given in Book 1, despite how much Charlie grows throughout that story. Penny & Greer also do not have the Daddy/boy or Master/slave dynamics that is so prevalent in the Zagreus Den and its inhabitants/members. It did not take away from their intensity together though, and it was fun to watch them fight through their evolving feelings.
The action in this story was still very much intense, like the occurrences in the previous book. And watching both men struggle with how to approach their task and succeed safely left me on the edge of my seat throughout much of the latter half of the book. Once Fabian was located and a plan was in place, the intensity of the story grew immensely, and I couldn't stop reading until I knew everyone was safe. It's not easy putting myself in the MC's shoes with what they had to endure. I'm pretty sure my heartrate didn't go down until I read the epilogue to introduce Brutus' book next.
I love Penny's relationship with his sister, Helen, and I love Greer's ease of understanding of that relationship. Penny put everything on the line to ensure his sister stayed safe and cared for, and it was so sweet to see how much Helen appreciated her brother, even if she didn't quite understand all that was going on around her. She was a precious side character to fight for, and I loved that we didn't have to endure any heartache surrounding her part in the story.
The Housebreaker's Assistant was a start-to-finish adventure, and another fantastic story to add to the intriguing Zagreus Den club.
I received an authorized copy of this book and am volunteering my honest review.
This was an interesting read from start to finish. The maturity of both MCs in this story is vastly different from what we were given in Book 1, despite how much Charlie grows throughout that story. Penny & Greer also do not have the Daddy/boy or Master/slave dynamics that is so prevalent in the Zagreus Den and its inhabitants/members. It did not take away from their intensity together though, and it was fun to watch them fight through their evolving feelings.
The action in this story was still very much intense, like the occurrences in the previous book. And watching both men struggle with how to approach their task and succeed safely left me on the edge of my seat throughout much of the latter half of the book. Once Fabian was located and a plan was in place, the intensity of the story grew immensely, and I couldn't stop reading until I knew everyone was safe. It's not easy putting myself in the MC's shoes with what they had to endure. I'm pretty sure my heartrate didn't go down until I read the epilogue to introduce Brutus' book next.
I love Penny's relationship with his sister, Helen, and I love Greer's ease of understanding of that relationship. Penny put everything on the line to ensure his sister stayed safe and cared for, and it was so sweet to see how much Helen appreciated her brother, even if she didn't quite understand all that was going on around her. She was a precious side character to fight for, and I loved that we didn't have to endure any heartache surrounding her part in the story.
The Housebreaker's Assistant was a start-to-finish adventure, and another fantastic story to add to the intriguing Zagreus Den club.
I received an authorized copy of this book and am volunteering my honest review.
June 28, 2026
I really enjoyed this story and the romance between the 2 main characters, enough action to move things along.
June 10, 2026
Before I read the Housebreaker’s Assistant, I read the Photographer’s Apprentice, just to get the background story. I’m so glad I did, I think you really need to read these books in order. I enjoyed these books from start to finish. There is at least one more book in this series, and I can’t wait.
All in all, I loved The Housebreaker’s Assistant.
All in all, I loved The Housebreaker’s Assistant.
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