The Good Thieves is the kind of book I would've loved as a child — whimsical, fast-paced and thrilling. Rundell shows that love for others and a desire to do what's right can encourage even the most unlikely heroes to overcome adversity and make a difference.

Vita and her mum have sailed to New York to help her grandfather, Jack, whose home (a castle on the outskirts of New York) has been swindled from him by conman Sorrotore. Determined to avenge the injustice, Vita concocts a plan and, with the help of circus performers Samuel and Arkady, and Silk, a local pickpocket, begins a race against time to restore her grandfather's home and possessions to the rightful owner.

K's opinion:
I love Katherine Rundell's books so was particularly looking forward to this one. I felt incredibly privileged to be able to read an electronic copy and, oh boy, I wasn't disappointed!

This is an exciting, fast-paced adventure that made me gasp and kept me gripped throughout. From the very beginning, I marvelled at the description and choice of vocabulary and the way Rundell weaves it to create magic on the page (I'm an English teacher by day - I I look at the vocabulary almost by default!). The attention to detail immerses you in New York life and you quickly feel as though you're in amongst the Mafia-type world next to Vita. She is a strong lead character whose determination is evident, not least through the fact that she refuses to allow herself to be defined by her weak leg. She is somebody whose qualities I think many young girls will want to emulate when they read the book and, together with Samuel, Arkady and Silk, will be characters that will stay with readers long after they have read the final page.

This tale of love, family, friendship and loyalty is a captivating adventure from the master of story-telling.

O's opinion:
WOW!!! This book had me on the edge of my seat the whole way through: I even stopped my homework to read it! I have always loved Katherine's books and this is without a doubt her best book yet!

I loved how Vita was always persistent, no matter what the task was, even with her disability. The way her friends always stayed by her side, whatever the problem, was amazing. This is a characteristic I would love to have (unfortunately, I am a bit of a wuss!!), and would be incredibly fortunate to have friends like that.

This is by far one of the best books I have read this year (so far I am on 31!). I can't wait for Katherine's next!