For the first few chapters I assumed this book was written by an American male author because of the fake historical British accent, the appalling characterization of females throughout the book, and the frequent historical and geographical inaccuracies. Then I checked online and found it was by a female British author, who has written for the Guardian! Baffled, I began to think it must be a parody - which would explain the female characters (either prostitutes or the 'love interest' who seems to be more concerned with not getting her hooped skirt mucky than escaping from murderous guards). Then I found out it's not a parody but the start of a series! Lor' help us guvnor, but I'm still reading this one, because the one bit the author seems to have got right is the murder mystery which is keeping me hooked despite an absolutely appalling misuse of adjectives. Don't start this, it's like crack fiction. Wow, what a fantastic book, my respects on this one, so much research and details, the author has done a superb job with details, descriptions, you can see the characters, the clothing, the food and drink and even at times smell what is happening in the book, (not the best smells though).1665. Year of the Black Death. A killer stalks the streets in a plague doctor’s mask…Charlie, the thief taker, his job is to find thieves, and he is caught up in a murder he didn’t commit. the story changes points of view, from Charlie, to Thomas, to the King, the Mayor of London but not in a confusing way. All are great characters in their own way, some good some bad. The plot written at the right pace, not too fast or too slow. I felt myself immersed in this book, drinking in each word.“It was typical, he thought, that it had come to this. One minute he was happily selling forged certificates and making good money and the next he was forced to choose between torture, amputation or leaping into a pile of corpses. It was the kind of thing which always seemed to be happening to him.”I was left with a few questions at the end, regarding the brother and the chest, but there is a sequel out in 2015 so I hope there will be answers. The cover and the title are top notch and I also enjoyed the detail at the end of the book, kindle edition with a link to receive a secret chapter to your email. This would make a cracking film, and I am looking forward to the sequel.This is a Netgalley copy, but I took ages to actually read it and wasn´t able to post a review there.
What do You think about Thief Taker, The (2014)?
Really enjoyed this book. Graphic descriptions of London in the Great Palgur. Couldn't put it dow.
—JamieChristine
amazing book couldn't put it down! history mixed in with mystery would read again in a heartbeat!
—Andy
Quite enjoyable read. Would be interested to see how the character develops in future books.
—katja_m
A different take on a murder/murders during the Great Plague in London in 1660's.
—zadukes
A light fun read, taking place during the plague of London.
—nestle
