Book Review: Once a Thief: An International Christian Romantic Suspense (Protector Sweethearts Book 1) by Jan Thompson
When I first stumbled upon Once a Thief, I was immediately drawn in by its intriguing premise—a private investigator teaming up with a reformed art thief to rescue a missing mother. As someone who loves a good romantic suspense with a twist of adventure, the book promised all of that, plus a captivating backdrop of Greece and Italy. Jan Thompson, a USA Today bestselling author, certainly knows how to catch readers’ attention and keep them turning the pages.
The story revolves around Helen Hu, a determined and relatable private investigator who finds herself on a harrowing quest to find her missing mother. Her journey leads her to partner with Reuben Costa, a reformed art thief with a troubled past linked to his father’s criminal legacy. The dynamic between these two leads adds a rich layer of complexity and tension, especially as Reuben grapples with his feelings for Helen while trying to redeem himself from his past. Their relationship blooms amid danger and uncertainty, making it both romantic and thrilling.
One of the key themes in Once a Thief is the quest for redemption. Both Helen and Reuben carry their burdens—whether it’s a missing parent or a tarnished reputation—from their pasts. This theme resonated with me deeply, leading to moments of reflection as I considered the ways we all seek to make amends and find forgiveness.
Thompson’s writing style shines with vivid imagery that transports you right to the sun-soaked landscapes of Greece and the bustling streets of Italy. The pacing was impeccable—just when you think you’ve caught your breath, the plot thickens again. The suspenseful twists kept me invested, and I found myself cheering for Helen as she navigated through a world filled with thievery and danger, all while questioning whom she could truly trust.
One line that truly stood out to me was when Helen mused, “In a world full of thieves, can we trust our hearts to another?” This beautifully encapsulates not just the romantic dilemma of her story, but also the overarching theme of trust throughout the narrative. It challenges the reader to consider the nature of trust itself, especially in relationships tinged with secrets.
As I reached the conclusion, I found myself craving more—more of Helen’s witty dialogue, more of Reuben’s redemption arc, and certainly more of the thrilling escapades awaiting in the next books in the series. Thompson has set up a robust foundation for a series that I’m eager to continue, especially after the lingering mysteries that remain unresolved.
Once a Thief is perfect for fans of Christian romantic suspense who enjoy layered characters and compelling narratives braided with themes of faith, trust, and redemption. If you’re looking for a book that not only entertains but also invites you to reflect on personal struggles and faith, this tale is for you. I walked away not only entertained but also moved, ready to dive into the next installment—because admit it, stories like this remind us that even in the darkest times, hearts can find their way back home.