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The Letter #4
The Thief's Heart
For anyone who’s ever needed a second chance, to find love, to find the right path in life…
Des Moines, 1892. After losing their promised inheritance, the Arthur family’s luck finally changes. An extraordinary woman, Violet Pendergrass, provides refuge for them to rebuild their broken lives. Or has she?
Handsome fifteen-year-old Tommy Arthur has one foot in manhood and the other dragging up the rear of his boyhood years. He strives to protect and provide for his family, but turning to booze when scared or worried creates as many problems as solutions. Unsure of who he can trust, fiery redhead Pearl Riverside challenges and excites him at every turn, softening his heart toward the idea that goodness exists in the world.
Tension builds between Tommy and his mother as her affection for a generous man increases. At the same time, distance grows between Tommy and his twin sister, Katherine, as each chooses secrets over family. Violet Pendergrass demands more from Tommy and he begins to question her motives.
When disaster strikes for Tommy’s little sister, Yale, the actions of a sinister judge, a crooked minister, and the infamous charlatan, Dreama, are revealed. Facing more jailtime as vigilante mobs form, the clock runs down on Tommy’s chance to take responsibility for his own choices. Is it too late for him to save his family, to open his heart and fully love those who need him as much as he needs them?
Des Moines, 1892. After losing their promised inheritance, the Arthur family’s luck finally changes. An extraordinary woman, Violet Pendergrass, provides refuge for them to rebuild their broken lives. Or has she?
Handsome fifteen-year-old Tommy Arthur has one foot in manhood and the other dragging up the rear of his boyhood years. He strives to protect and provide for his family, but turning to booze when scared or worried creates as many problems as solutions. Unsure of who he can trust, fiery redhead Pearl Riverside challenges and excites him at every turn, softening his heart toward the idea that goodness exists in the world.
Tension builds between Tommy and his mother as her affection for a generous man increases. At the same time, distance grows between Tommy and his twin sister, Katherine, as each chooses secrets over family. Violet Pendergrass demands more from Tommy and he begins to question her motives.
When disaster strikes for Tommy’s little sister, Yale, the actions of a sinister judge, a crooked minister, and the infamous charlatan, Dreama, are revealed. Facing more jailtime as vigilante mobs form, the clock runs down on Tommy’s chance to take responsibility for his own choices. Is it too late for him to save his family, to open his heart and fully love those who need him as much as he needs them?
425 pages, Kindle Edition
Published January 14, 2020
51 people are currently reading
231 people want to read
About the author
Kathleen Shoop
49 books1,126 followersBestselling author, Kathleen Shoop, holds a PhD in reading education and has more than 20 years of experience in the classroom. She writes historical fiction, women’s fiction and romance. Shoop’s novels have garnered various awards in the Independent Publisher Book Awards, Eric Hoffer Book Awards, Indie Excellence Awards, Next Generation Indie Book Awards and the San Francisco Book Festival. Kathleen has been featured in USA Today and the Writer’s Guide to 2013. Her work has appeared in The Tribune-Review, four Chicken Soup for the Soul books and Pittsburgh Parent magazine. She lives in Oakmont, Pennsylvania with her husband and two children.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 32 reviews
March 3, 2020
This is the 4th book in Kathleen Shoop’s “Letter Series” and I really enjoyed this historical fiction romance read about the Arthur family. Set in 1892 Des Moines The story is centered on Tommy Arthur who will steal your heart as his struggles and hardships will have you rooting for him and his family. The time era chosen for the setting of this story was absolutely perfect. The writing was intriguing, captured my attention and had me so interested to see what is next to come. This is my fist book with Kathleen Shoop and I am definitely now a fan of her writing. Shoop’s writing pulled me into the time, the beautiful prose, and the descriptive way she wrote, had me immersed into this story line. I enjoyed every one of the characters introduced in this book and getting to know each one good and the bad, which added to the plot of this amazing and interesting story. This was a highly enjoyable read that I recommend.
January 20, 2020
The main focus of the novel is on fifteen-year-old Tommy and all of his challenges pertaining to work, money, resources, family, friendships, bias, crime, and so on. This poor child is put through it from beginning to end! He desperately wants to take care of his mother and sisters, he's trying to make money any way he can, he's trying to go to school, and all the while, he's struggling to avoid his trouble-making "friends," his desire for whiskey, and a crooked Judge that seems out to get him.
Other than his family that he loves dearly, the only bright moments in Tommy's life center around his crow named Frank and of course, the unique and tortured redhead, Pearl Riverside. Pearl has suffered unimaginable hardships in her life and escapes her reality at her post office job where she sneaks and reads other peoples' letters. Her character is beautifully raw, honest, and innocent and I immediately fell in love with her.
There are so many secondary characters and subplots to this novel, I could probably work on this review all day and not touch on everything. But despite so much going on, it doesn't feel overwhelming while reading. Don't get me wrong, you will be stressed out for the majority of the book wondering and hoping if anything will go right for Tommy. That's simply because his character quickly pulls you into the story and you so badly want everything to work out o.k. for him and pray for a solution to all of his family's problems.
Historical fiction is not my go-to genre by any means. I am absolutely more of a women's fiction or romance kind of girl. However, I am frequently surprised by how much I love this genre. The Thief's Heart is a shining example of wonderful historical fiction. From the dialogue to the clothing described, as well as, the ideals of the characters and the norms of the time period, this was a well-written, intelligent, and touching novel. My only complaint at all is the ending. It's not an ambiguous ending, it's not a cliffhanger, nor is everything wrapped up in a neat package. I guess the best way to describe it is, if there is another in this series, which I hope there is, I will certainly read it to find out what happens next with Tommy, Pearl, and Tommy's family. But if there wasn't another in the series, it would still be entertaining and leave the reader hopeful that they all eventually get their happy endings or at least some sort of peace in their lives. I would have preferred more closure, but I still highly recommend this novel.
*Thanks to the author and Beck Valley Books for providing this review copy in exchange for my honest opinion!
Other than his family that he loves dearly, the only bright moments in Tommy's life center around his crow named Frank and of course, the unique and tortured redhead, Pearl Riverside. Pearl has suffered unimaginable hardships in her life and escapes her reality at her post office job where she sneaks and reads other peoples' letters. Her character is beautifully raw, honest, and innocent and I immediately fell in love with her.
There are so many secondary characters and subplots to this novel, I could probably work on this review all day and not touch on everything. But despite so much going on, it doesn't feel overwhelming while reading. Don't get me wrong, you will be stressed out for the majority of the book wondering and hoping if anything will go right for Tommy. That's simply because his character quickly pulls you into the story and you so badly want everything to work out o.k. for him and pray for a solution to all of his family's problems.
Historical fiction is not my go-to genre by any means. I am absolutely more of a women's fiction or romance kind of girl. However, I am frequently surprised by how much I love this genre. The Thief's Heart is a shining example of wonderful historical fiction. From the dialogue to the clothing described, as well as, the ideals of the characters and the norms of the time period, this was a well-written, intelligent, and touching novel. My only complaint at all is the ending. It's not an ambiguous ending, it's not a cliffhanger, nor is everything wrapped up in a neat package. I guess the best way to describe it is, if there is another in this series, which I hope there is, I will certainly read it to find out what happens next with Tommy, Pearl, and Tommy's family. But if there wasn't another in the series, it would still be entertaining and leave the reader hopeful that they all eventually get their happy endings or at least some sort of peace in their lives. I would have preferred more closure, but I still highly recommend this novel.
*Thanks to the author and Beck Valley Books for providing this review copy in exchange for my honest opinion!
January 14, 2020
‘The Thief’s Heart’ is the fourth book in the ‘Letter Series’ by Kathleen Shoop, and I was given a copy in exchange for an honest review.
As a previous fan of Shoop’s work, I was eager to get stuck into this book, and it did not disappoint.
The book is set in 1892, and focuses on the life and hardships of teenager Tommy Arthur and his family. He is still boy-like but embarking on adulthood, and is battling the need to look after his mother and two sisters, and a notion of rebuilding his family to their former glory.
After being cruelly robbed of an inheritance, the Arthur’s are left boarding for a generous Mrs Violet Pendergrass, but is the generous woman really all she appears to be?
With a generous Mr. Hayes captivating his mother, and his twin sister Katherine working and earning her own keep, Tommy struggles to hold onto his position of being the provider of the family. He loses himself to drinking and enables those around him who invite trouble to draw him in.
But there is one saving grace, Pearl Riverside, the girl that Tommy can’t help but be charmed by. He loves her freeness and how he catches her reading other peoples post, and how she has the ability to remind him of true goodness.
With a shoddy reverend and crime, will Tommy manage to remain a free man and out of trouble? Or will he cave to temptation.
Shoop’s depiction of this historical time is amazing, and I was captivated by the plot within the first few pages. There is something innocently naive about Tommy which endears you to him. You feel sorry for his family’s bad fortune, and worry for his welfare around his no good ‘friends’.
You learn of his family’s divide, and how in this time Tommy was bullied and abused, and you revel in his pride at having a job he can be proud of in a hotel, to feeling saddened when it comes to a bitter end from trauma. He has a caring nature, and you want badly for things to work out for him.
It was a well-written story which felt authentic and true to the era. The struggle of the characters felt real, and I absolutely adored Tommy and his journey. There was lots of drama and mystery around characters such as the reverend and Mrs Pendergrass, and it only adds to the entertainment of the story.
I would recommend this book to all historical fiction lovers, and those who are looking for a unique series to become immersed in.
As a previous fan of Shoop’s work, I was eager to get stuck into this book, and it did not disappoint.
The book is set in 1892, and focuses on the life and hardships of teenager Tommy Arthur and his family. He is still boy-like but embarking on adulthood, and is battling the need to look after his mother and two sisters, and a notion of rebuilding his family to their former glory.
After being cruelly robbed of an inheritance, the Arthur’s are left boarding for a generous Mrs Violet Pendergrass, but is the generous woman really all she appears to be?
With a generous Mr. Hayes captivating his mother, and his twin sister Katherine working and earning her own keep, Tommy struggles to hold onto his position of being the provider of the family. He loses himself to drinking and enables those around him who invite trouble to draw him in.
But there is one saving grace, Pearl Riverside, the girl that Tommy can’t help but be charmed by. He loves her freeness and how he catches her reading other peoples post, and how she has the ability to remind him of true goodness.
With a shoddy reverend and crime, will Tommy manage to remain a free man and out of trouble? Or will he cave to temptation.
Shoop’s depiction of this historical time is amazing, and I was captivated by the plot within the first few pages. There is something innocently naive about Tommy which endears you to him. You feel sorry for his family’s bad fortune, and worry for his welfare around his no good ‘friends’.
You learn of his family’s divide, and how in this time Tommy was bullied and abused, and you revel in his pride at having a job he can be proud of in a hotel, to feeling saddened when it comes to a bitter end from trauma. He has a caring nature, and you want badly for things to work out for him.
It was a well-written story which felt authentic and true to the era. The struggle of the characters felt real, and I absolutely adored Tommy and his journey. There was lots of drama and mystery around characters such as the reverend and Mrs Pendergrass, and it only adds to the entertainment of the story.
I would recommend this book to all historical fiction lovers, and those who are looking for a unique series to become immersed in.
January 20, 2020
I found The Heart's Thief to be a really interesting story. I don't usually get into books told from the 1800s. I'm into the here and now or even the occasional futuristic stories. I guess ones from the past seem like history lessons. I was never into history! Real quickly let me note that I have not read the other books in this series. The Thief's Heart is book four in the Letter series. I felt it could be read as a standalone perfectly fine.
Earlier I mentioned above that I didn't read historical books normally. However, this doesn’t read or feel like a historical novel. I didn’t feel like I’m not being taught a history lesson nor did I fall asleep while reading! That's seriously a hit for me with anything historical. Shoop seems to build that era up so I felt as if I was transported to that time and place. Sometimes you find an author that writes in various genres and it just works... Kathleen Shoop is that author for me. I'm crossing all my fingers and toes that we get another book in the Bridal Shop series... I adored that first book so much!!
Anyways, sorry, I know... I ramble! I found Tommy to be completely endearing. He's not a boy but not yet a man. He's trying and as the man of the house, he's struggling. You can feel that they've lost so much... their money and family. They're trying to rebuild. I really enjoyed how the story follows the Arthur family throughout times and it comes with the good and the bad. Each family member struggles in separate ways and we get snippets of all of them.
I received an ARC of this book with the hope that I would leave an Unbiased Opinion. I was not required to leave a review, positive or otherwise, and my opinions are just that... my opinions.
Check out my Blog: Next Book Review
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Earlier I mentioned above that I didn't read historical books normally. However, this doesn’t read or feel like a historical novel. I didn’t feel like I’m not being taught a history lesson nor did I fall asleep while reading! That's seriously a hit for me with anything historical. Shoop seems to build that era up so I felt as if I was transported to that time and place. Sometimes you find an author that writes in various genres and it just works... Kathleen Shoop is that author for me. I'm crossing all my fingers and toes that we get another book in the Bridal Shop series... I adored that first book so much!!
Anyways, sorry, I know... I ramble! I found Tommy to be completely endearing. He's not a boy but not yet a man. He's trying and as the man of the house, he's struggling. You can feel that they've lost so much... their money and family. They're trying to rebuild. I really enjoyed how the story follows the Arthur family throughout times and it comes with the good and the bad. Each family member struggles in separate ways and we get snippets of all of them.
I received an ARC of this book with the hope that I would leave an Unbiased Opinion. I was not required to leave a review, positive or otherwise, and my opinions are just that... my opinions.
Check out my Blog: Next Book Review
Check out my Facebook Page: Next Book Review Facebook
January 16, 2020
Shoop takes us back to a time that is full of intrigue. It brings back a "simpler" time (pre-technology) yet explores the tragedies, heartbreaks, as well as love that the time period has to offer. The fact that these are based on family letters, historical places, and events wraps everything I love about the late 19th and early 20th century time period. We're whisked into the happenings of the Arthur family and immediately begin to feel a connection as they experience a life that we can all pull from our own family history. My heart ached as Tommy tried to transition from boyhood to adulthood. Having a son his age myself, my heart strings were really pulled, fully-understanding that this is such a tough age in general. With everyone being pulled in different directions and people like Violet adding to the pull, he struggles with making good choices, putting him in situations that we hope to never find ourselves in -- much less our children! I have to say that I wanted more when it ended so I'm anxiously awaiting for the next glimpse at how Tommy and his family transition into yet another act of their lives. This book of the series really resonated with me and is my favorite of the series thus far!
I have volunteered to share my review and all the opinions are 100% my own.
I have volunteered to share my review and all the opinions are 100% my own.
January 15, 2020
Ah - I just love Kathleen Shoop's historical fiction writing. I always feel so warm and welcomed into the journey that lies ahead. The Thief's Letter can be read as a stand alone book, but reading about the Arthur family throughout her other books is just divine.
The storyline is from 1892 and as you read, you feel as if you are in that day and time. There is something about Kathleen's writing that pulls you in and makes you feel as if somehow time traveled into another dimension. The Arthur family is recovering from their past loss and find themselves in more family crisis. Tommy is filled with guilt from the past, but is now faced with new dilemmas. What will the outcome to this amazing story be? And how will the fiery redhead, Pearl Riverside, change things for him?
So much more to unpack in this book! I know you will enjoy it as much as I have!
The storyline is from 1892 and as you read, you feel as if you are in that day and time. There is something about Kathleen's writing that pulls you in and makes you feel as if somehow time traveled into another dimension. The Arthur family is recovering from their past loss and find themselves in more family crisis. Tommy is filled with guilt from the past, but is now faced with new dilemmas. What will the outcome to this amazing story be? And how will the fiery redhead, Pearl Riverside, change things for him?
So much more to unpack in this book! I know you will enjoy it as much as I have!
January 20, 2020
Tommy’s family has had the worst time possible just trying to stay together and survive. No matter how hard he tries doing the right thing, Tommy somehow ends up doing wrong. Not only does his family depend on him, his friend Pearl needs him just as much. But Tommy finally realizes that he needs Pearl too. His past of running with the wrong crowd and being on the wrong side of the law soon catches up with him threatening to break up Tommy’s family, giving him no way out but to tell the truth and face the consequences of his actions.
I felt every heartache, every letdown, every disappointment that this family felt. I wanted so badly to help them. This is the fourth book of this series and each one had me so emotional throughout each story. Ms. Shoop can transport you directly into her stories and make you never want to leave.
I felt every heartache, every letdown, every disappointment that this family felt. I wanted so badly to help them. This is the fourth book of this series and each one had me so emotional throughout each story. Ms. Shoop can transport you directly into her stories and make you never want to leave.
January 22, 2020
Poverty, lies and triumph
This book is very interesting to read. There are times that I get emotional and feel bad for Tommy and his family. Poverty hurts me the most knowing that growing up poor is a challenge every day to live your life. Politicians and high rank people hate me the most knowing that they step on people's right. I hate those bastards.
I loved how the love letters between young lovers. Love always win especially when two people felt the same way.
Deceitful especially with the friends we know is always a mind game. You just need to trust and know your boundaries.
Power never last especially when you abused your authority.
This book is emotional, gut wrenching and above all what a beautiful book to read.
This book is very interesting to read. There are times that I get emotional and feel bad for Tommy and his family. Poverty hurts me the most knowing that growing up poor is a challenge every day to live your life. Politicians and high rank people hate me the most knowing that they step on people's right. I hate those bastards.
I loved how the love letters between young lovers. Love always win especially when two people felt the same way.
Deceitful especially with the friends we know is always a mind game. You just need to trust and know your boundaries.
Power never last especially when you abused your authority.
This book is emotional, gut wrenching and above all what a beautiful book to read.
January 15, 2020
Kathleen Shoop has pulled me back in time yet again! The Thief's Letter continues the story of the Arthur family after the loss of their fortune and a large part of their family. Tommy and his family are trying to rebuild their lives, when tragedy strikes the family again. Following the twists and turns of their story is a path filled with joy and sorrow.
Mrs. Shoop's writing literally transports you to the past, with descriptions that make the story come alive. While this book is a standalone you won't regret reading the rest of the series!
I have volunteered to share my review and all the opinions are 100% my own.
Mrs. Shoop's writing literally transports you to the past, with descriptions that make the story come alive. While this book is a standalone you won't regret reading the rest of the series!
I have volunteered to share my review and all the opinions are 100% my own.
January 14, 2020
Shoop books are all standalone books but I have read about the Arthur family in previous titles and love them all! They have been through a lot and always look out for each other, they just want whats best, you can't help but root for this family. Shoop books are long, and I am still in the middle of this one but so very eager to learn what happens next. There is never a dull moment and lots of characters to love (and not love) with a storyline that easily pulls you in. I received this book as part of a book tour -- all opinions are my own.
January 16, 2020
The Thief's Heart is a brilliant and heart-wrenching tale. Thrown into poverty, family torn apart but trying to mend, Tommy is doing his best to be the man of the family while keeping his nose clean. Surrounded by corruption and temptation at every turn, the reader can feel the war within Tommy. An absolutely captivating read that can be read as a stand-alone.
January 15, 2020
The Thief's Heart is the long awaited sequel to Kathleen Shoop's The Last Letter. It was absolutely worth the wait, revisiting the Arthur's and seeing how they are getting along. Tommy still has issues and feels immense guilt about his parents divorce. But the family dynamic is still pretty strong even though to me Tommy seems to have alienated himself and believes he's doomed to be like Frank Arthur.
Kathleen Shoop has once again woven a Historical Fiction novel that will remain on your mind long after you've finished reading it. Let's just hope we don't have to wait very long to revisit the Arthur family.
Kathleen Shoop has once again woven a Historical Fiction novel that will remain on your mind long after you've finished reading it. Let's just hope we don't have to wait very long to revisit the Arthur family.
March 20, 2020
The Thief’s Heart (The Letter Series Book 4)
I liked this 4th book in The Letter Series, but I didn’t love it. By the 4th book I think readers have figured out the inner workings of all the characters. It seemed to me the same things were just repeated over and over in The Thief’s Heart. I’ve grown tired of Tommy’s self pitying attitude.
I liked this 4th book in The Letter Series, but I didn’t love it. By the 4th book I think readers have figured out the inner workings of all the characters. It seemed to me the same things were just repeated over and over in The Thief’s Heart. I’ve grown tired of Tommy’s self pitying attitude.
March 1, 2020
Fifteen year old Tommy Arthur has had an interesting few years. After his grandfather lost their family inheritance, the Arthur family was left destitute and Tommy fled to the prairie to survive. Now, he is back in Des Moines with his mother and sisters, having found housing with the independent business woman Violet Pendergrass, an anomaly in 1892. Tommy tries his best to earn money for the family, working odd jobs selling prayers for the Reverend, being a bell boy at a hotel and doing some things for Miss Pendergrass. As much as Tommy wants to be a good person, help his family and save money for their future, but it seems everybody else would like to see him fail. The Reverend asks him to steal trinkets from the houses that he delivers prayers to, Miss Pendergrass isn't forthcoming with what exactly the women in her house are up to and Tommy easily falls into the comforts of drink and gambling. When Tommy's little sister, Yale is taken to a house for imbeciles he knows that it is time to be a man and help his family. Luckily, Tommy has family and friends who still believe in him and know that he is a good person.
The Thief's Heart is a story of struggle and survival in the late 19th century. This is the 4th book in The Letter series and while I could tell that a lot had happened before this book began, I did not feel lost at all. I did find myself wrapped up in Tommy's strife and constant attempts to make his and his family's life better. I had a lot of sympathy for Tommy as his successes were cut down and attempts to right wrongs were squashed by miscommunication or circumstance and found myself frustrated for him. The love of family and friends stood out for me. Tommy is willing to sacrifice, steal and work unsavory jobs in order to help, but he is slow to see how other's are trying to help him. One of the friendships and characters that I absolutely adored was Frank the crow, a perfect companion as well as an addition of humor. Along with Frank, Pearl Riverside's character adds a lightness to balance Tommy's edge with her honest and strong personality as well as her ability to rebound from many situations. As a lover of historical fiction, The Thief's Heart is a perfect read for me, bringing me back to the late nineteenth century in the midwest. I enjoy Kathleen Shoop's seamless addition of touches of magic throughout the story to create hope, wonder and whimsy.
This book was received for free in return for an honest review.
The Thief's Heart is a story of struggle and survival in the late 19th century. This is the 4th book in The Letter series and while I could tell that a lot had happened before this book began, I did not feel lost at all. I did find myself wrapped up in Tommy's strife and constant attempts to make his and his family's life better. I had a lot of sympathy for Tommy as his successes were cut down and attempts to right wrongs were squashed by miscommunication or circumstance and found myself frustrated for him. The love of family and friends stood out for me. Tommy is willing to sacrifice, steal and work unsavory jobs in order to help, but he is slow to see how other's are trying to help him. One of the friendships and characters that I absolutely adored was Frank the crow, a perfect companion as well as an addition of humor. Along with Frank, Pearl Riverside's character adds a lightness to balance Tommy's edge with her honest and strong personality as well as her ability to rebound from many situations. As a lover of historical fiction, The Thief's Heart is a perfect read for me, bringing me back to the late nineteenth century in the midwest. I enjoy Kathleen Shoop's seamless addition of touches of magic throughout the story to create hope, wonder and whimsy.
This book was received for free in return for an honest review.
February 26, 2020
Being one of my favorite series, I could hardly contain my excitement to get my hands on another installment of the Arthur family and travel back in time with them again. I've loved these stories since the very first book when the family first captured my attention as they found themselves penniless and homeless in the middle of a prairie. The author's outstanding writing brings these touching stories so much to life and make the characters feel like long lost friends.
We travel back in time again to Des Moines, 1892, to be reunited with the Arthur family. Lies, resentment, and corruption are just a few things the Arthur's are faced with when all they want is a family home to feel safe in together but find they are surrounded by deceit and poverty of the times. This is Tommy's story who I really warmed to, my favorite characters running through the series has always been Jeanie and Katherine, but I found myself understanding Tommy's haphazard ways as he jumps from one desperate plight to another to survive. He has a heart of gold, and always strives to support his family from the severe hardships they find themselves in, yet sometimes finds himself conflicted between right and wrong, and pull of temptation. As Tommy and Pearl get closer she seems to have brought some steadiness to his life and I'm looking forward to see how things work out between them.
For readers who have not read the previous books I feel you would be able to follow this quite easily as the Arthur's history is referred to now and then by the author so you are not missing out on the important facts.
It will come as no surprise that I rate this emotive read 5 stars and find myself, yet again, desperate to read the next!
We travel back in time again to Des Moines, 1892, to be reunited with the Arthur family. Lies, resentment, and corruption are just a few things the Arthur's are faced with when all they want is a family home to feel safe in together but find they are surrounded by deceit and poverty of the times. This is Tommy's story who I really warmed to, my favorite characters running through the series has always been Jeanie and Katherine, but I found myself understanding Tommy's haphazard ways as he jumps from one desperate plight to another to survive. He has a heart of gold, and always strives to support his family from the severe hardships they find themselves in, yet sometimes finds himself conflicted between right and wrong, and pull of temptation. As Tommy and Pearl get closer she seems to have brought some steadiness to his life and I'm looking forward to see how things work out between them.
For readers who have not read the previous books I feel you would be able to follow this quite easily as the Arthur's history is referred to now and then by the author so you are not missing out on the important facts.
It will come as no surprise that I rate this emotive read 5 stars and find myself, yet again, desperate to read the next!
February 6, 2022
Read a book not the series
This review goes for the whole series and not just this book. Although this particular book was mostly in the past and focused on Tommy. I preferred this over other books particularly book number 1-2. The series is based on current time, a little in the past and farther in the past. Add to the fact that some books have multiple points of view as well jumping in-and-out of out of 3 different points in time. Overall I liked the story but the way it's written I'm not a fan. I think if it was written in more chronological or less changing of person and point in time it would be better. I will say I read book 3 first but I liked it enough to keep reading the series. However as much as I like the characters except probably Jeanie. You can tell the books are written to be standalone and not as much in a series - maybe as an afterthought. So much in each book is repetitive especially Jeanie's negativity and whining about her husband, it is just is boring at places. There were characters and parts of the story for whom I wanted a resolution which is why I kept reading. Let me clarify ... I read book 3 first and I read book 1 and part of 2 before I couldn't take it anymore. So I listened to the rest of 2 and all of book 4 and will probably listen to pearl story as well. Not worth taking precious reading time it's reading time on something I've heard over and over. In conclusion I liked most of the characters and the characters in the overall storyline was just not a fan of how it was constructed.
This review goes for the whole series and not just this book. Although this particular book was mostly in the past and focused on Tommy. I preferred this over other books particularly book number 1-2. The series is based on current time, a little in the past and farther in the past. Add to the fact that some books have multiple points of view as well jumping in-and-out of out of 3 different points in time. Overall I liked the story but the way it's written I'm not a fan. I think if it was written in more chronological or less changing of person and point in time it would be better. I will say I read book 3 first but I liked it enough to keep reading the series. However as much as I like the characters except probably Jeanie. You can tell the books are written to be standalone and not as much in a series - maybe as an afterthought. So much in each book is repetitive especially Jeanie's negativity and whining about her husband, it is just is boring at places. There were characters and parts of the story for whom I wanted a resolution which is why I kept reading. Let me clarify ... I read book 3 first and I read book 1 and part of 2 before I couldn't take it anymore. So I listened to the rest of 2 and all of book 4 and will probably listen to pearl story as well. Not worth taking precious reading time it's reading time on something I've heard over and over. In conclusion I liked most of the characters and the characters in the overall storyline was just not a fan of how it was constructed.
January 23, 2020
Kathleen Shoop has introduced me to a genre I never thought I would enjoy, I have only read the previous book in this series The Kitchen Mistress and just like that one Shoop has transported me back in time to this era and and once again I got so caught up with the story I forgot I was reading a book set in the late 18/1900’s!
The Thief's Heart is more focused on Tommy and his story, though we still have the rest of the Arthur family as well. Tommy is fifteen and that cusp between childhood and becoming a man, he still feels guilty over his parents divorce and feels he needs to step up and become the man of the house so to speak. In trying to support his family he ends up getting involved with some shady characters that puts him as risk of losing everything. Then the family takes another blow with his young sister Yale is taken away to an asylum - my heart just broke for them all, you could see the sinister actions behind her being taken away yet were powerless to do anything about it.
This story is filled with heartfelt moments and also heartbreak that you cant help but be swept into the story of this family from the get go.
4 stars.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
The Thief's Heart is more focused on Tommy and his story, though we still have the rest of the Arthur family as well. Tommy is fifteen and that cusp between childhood and becoming a man, he still feels guilty over his parents divorce and feels he needs to step up and become the man of the house so to speak. In trying to support his family he ends up getting involved with some shady characters that puts him as risk of losing everything. Then the family takes another blow with his young sister Yale is taken away to an asylum - my heart just broke for them all, you could see the sinister actions behind her being taken away yet were powerless to do anything about it.
This story is filled with heartfelt moments and also heartbreak that you cant help but be swept into the story of this family from the get go.
4 stars.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
January 14, 2020
Tommy Arthur had never gotten over either his father leaving or his horrendous days in foster care. But now that his family (minus his father and his dead brother) are back together in Des Moines and have found a place to live Tommy is determined to support them all. Unfortunately he gets in with the wrong people and seems to get in trouble a lot!
He meets a girl named Pearl-an orphan and they hit it off first as friends and ultimately as more then friends. She moves into his shack with him with her dog and a kitten she found. Tommy had a talking Raven--who really was a mini thief in his own right!
His baby sister Yale is taken to an asylum and Tommy ends up in jail once again. He manages to escape and Pearl and he take off leaving his Mom behind. Will they all reunite at some point? Hopefully in the next book of this saga!
Kathleen Shoop is definitely one of my favorite authors--her word imagery is spot on and make you feel what the characters in her novels feel!
He meets a girl named Pearl-an orphan and they hit it off first as friends and ultimately as more then friends. She moves into his shack with him with her dog and a kitten she found. Tommy had a talking Raven--who really was a mini thief in his own right!
His baby sister Yale is taken to an asylum and Tommy ends up in jail once again. He manages to escape and Pearl and he take off leaving his Mom behind. Will they all reunite at some point? Hopefully in the next book of this saga!
Kathleen Shoop is definitely one of my favorite authors--her word imagery is spot on and make you feel what the characters in her novels feel!
January 12, 2020
I have not read the prior novels but I had no problem jumping right into this book. In fact, I did not feel like I missed anything by not having read the prior novels.
For me when it came to the cast of characters, Tommy was the most prominent for me. He was really the voice and heart of this story. He was the one who really banded everyone together and brought it to life. Which I did instantly get captured by this story. I could see it all playing out in my head. The only thing is that I felt a bit of a disconnect with the rest of the characters as if there was a barrier. There was no strong physical or emotional connection to the other characters.
Despite my feelings towards this book, I do want to read another one by this author.
For me when it came to the cast of characters, Tommy was the most prominent for me. He was really the voice and heart of this story. He was the one who really banded everyone together and brought it to life. Which I did instantly get captured by this story. I could see it all playing out in my head. The only thing is that I felt a bit of a disconnect with the rest of the characters as if there was a barrier. There was no strong physical or emotional connection to the other characters.
Despite my feelings towards this book, I do want to read another one by this author.
May 24, 2024
This can’t be over yet!
Kathleen has seamlessly woven the stories of main characters, told from their own perspectives, in each book of this series to share this family’s saga. However, I still have questions and believe there should be another book to complete the saga! While I wasn’t complimentary of the writing of the first book, the story intrigued me enough to continue reading, and I’m so glad I did, because I didn’t notice the same literary flaws in subsequent books. Great series that kept me turning the pages, and sad there’s not another book.
Kathleen has seamlessly woven the stories of main characters, told from their own perspectives, in each book of this series to share this family’s saga. However, I still have questions and believe there should be another book to complete the saga! While I wasn’t complimentary of the writing of the first book, the story intrigued me enough to continue reading, and I’m so glad I did, because I didn’t notice the same literary flaws in subsequent books. Great series that kept me turning the pages, and sad there’s not another book.
April 28, 2023
I enjoyed this book a lot, but I felt that it ended too abruptly. Perhaps the author intends to write more about these characters in another novel, but I felt that everything was too much up in the air at the end.
I read the novel about Katherine, the twin of this novel's main character first and I liked that we could see events from her brother's point of view.
Good book, I paid for this novel, would probably pay for the next novel if there is one!
I read the novel about Katherine, the twin of this novel's main character first and I liked that we could see events from her brother's point of view.
Good book, I paid for this novel, would probably pay for the next novel if there is one!
June 12, 2023
Set in a time where your fortunes could turn on a dime. The Arthur family is at the mercy of Violet Pendergrass. Offering shelter and refuge in a desperate situation, Violet is like a spider. She works quietly but determined to get what she wants. Each member of the family in her protection experiences life altering or deciding moments. It’s a good read with insight into privilege and the doors it can close on the unprotected.
February 1, 2020
Covered the exact same time period as the last book the difference being it was about Tommy the son instead of Katherine the daughter. Still, I knew what major events were going to happen and that made it less enjoyable plus it was the last book in the series and the ending is somewhat of a cliffhanger so I assume there will be another book.
January 12, 2023
The 4th book in the series about the trials and tribulations of the Arthur family’s in the 1800s. The book is told through Tommy’s perspective giving their story a new dimension.
It was slow to start in the beginning but picked up significantly. I enjoyed the expansion of the story but still have questions about it. Wondering if there will be a 5th book from the mother’s perspective?
It was slow to start in the beginning but picked up significantly. I enjoyed the expansion of the story but still have questions about it. Wondering if there will be a 5th book from the mother’s perspective?
August 26, 2020
Disappointing
The only one of the four books in the letter series that I enjoyed was The Kitchen Mistress. The others rambled and jumped around too much with no consistency. I only completed them all because I bought the set and thought they would somehow get better.
The only one of the four books in the letter series that I enjoyed was The Kitchen Mistress. The others rambled and jumped around too much with no consistency. I only completed them all because I bought the set and thought they would somehow get better.
September 17, 2022
Left hanging
Unless I missed something, I still don't know why Tommy and Katherine were angry with Jeanie. Surely there is another book to come.. Too many loose ends. obviously I enjoyed the novels since I've read all 4, or is it 5. I've lost count.
Unless I missed something, I still don't know why Tommy and Katherine were angry with Jeanie. Surely there is another book to come.. Too many loose ends. obviously I enjoyed the novels since I've read all 4, or is it 5. I've lost count.
February 7, 2020
3.5 stars . Good read
February 7, 2020
Great, multi-faceted characters. Very interesting plot. Vivid descriptions. I felt every emotion. Kept me intrigued from the first page to the last. Simply a GREAT read!
#TheThiefsHeart #NetGalley
#TheThiefsHeart #NetGalley
May 17, 2020
Breathtaking!
Hard to put down - reading late into the night. What a sTory spinner. Read them all. Wish for one more!
Hard to put down - reading late into the night. What a sTory spinner. Read them all. Wish for one more!
April 17, 2021
Great book written from Tommy’s point of view. I hope the author completes the series to bring if full circle to where the first book began.
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