The Thief and the Noble

Book Description: 

A Robin Hood Regency

“Remember who you’re fighting for.”

As the daughter of a marquess, Lady Marian Russell is poised to impress in her first London Season. She is young, beautiful, and wealthy—but catching an eligible husband is the last thing on her mind. Marian is disillusioned with how the upper class lives while the poor of London suffer, and she is determined to right this imbalance. When she comes face-to-face with a mysterious man who steals from arrogant aristocrats and redistributes the spoils to the poor, Marian recognizes a motivation that mirrors her own. She is determined to discover the true identity of the unscrupulous hero and offer her assistance.

When she unmasks the bandit Robin, he begrudgingly agrees to train the lovely Marian in the art of thievery in exchange for her silence, quickly realizing that his heart may be stolen next. But when they discover a copycat thief operating in London, they are faced with a foe whose purpose is far from noble. Amid distracting suitors, becoming a champion of the poor, and a growing attraction Marian can’t ignore, can she and Robin expose the renegade pilferer without risking themselves.

My Review: 

I enjoyed this retelling of Robin Hood. Ms. LeCheminant did a great job in taking the familiar characters of this age old tale and placing them into the Regency era. Marian, Robin, Will, John, and Gisbourne are all a part of this adventurous tale.

Lady Marian Russell had a tender heart towards the poor as shown when she says, “It isn’t fair,” she said to herself, “Everyone deserved the basic comforts of life.” Getting hired as a barmaid was an ingenious way to not only find out how others lived, but also fuel her  passion to help them.  Marian is also observant, quick-witted, and intelligent, which makes her the perfect partner for Robin.  

Robert Loxely, the Earl of Huntingdon, has experienced the disparity between “the haves” and “the have nots” and wants to do what he can to correct it. Being found out as a thief was not part of his plan. But, that is what makes this story fun as Robin adds more people to his cause. 

The copycat thief that Robin and Marion must thwart adds additional depth to the plot.  I like the camaraderie that is shared between them and the way the book ended.  I received an advanced reader copy from the publisher through NetGalley.  All opinions are my own.