The Thief: A Novel (The Living Water Series)

The Thief, Stephanie Landsem’s second book in her Living Water series, is set in Jerusalem during the time of Jesus. The central character in this historical novel is a young woman whose ne'er-do-well parents rely on her to support them and her sightless younger brother. The family’s destitute condition causes the young woman, who has no marriage prospects, to turn to stealing from wealthy citizens. She commits the crimes while dressed as a boy, known as “The Mouse.” This cross-dressing itself is a punishable offense. Fortunately, not even her fellow thief, Dimas, suspects her true identity.

As the story of Mouse develops, author Landsem immerses her readers in the sights, smells, and sounds of an ancient Mid-Eastern city. The reader is brought into the narrow streets and byways of ancient Jerusalem and immersed in the life of a busy, ancient town. Conflicting interests complicate life in this city under Roman occupation and the threat of a popular uprising.

A Roman centurion takes on the task of apprehending the two thieves, but is unable to track them down. Meanwhile stories of a healer and prophet named Jesus of Nazareth begin to circulate in the town. Although some might question the extent to which The Thief incorporates the story of Jesus’s last days and specific persons involved in his crucifixion, the book is consistent with biblical accounts. It all comes together in a gripping climax.

In all, the book is a rich brew of strong characters, local color, biblical history, and a fast-evolving tale. It makes one eager for the next book in the series.

I loved Stephanie Landsem's first novel in the Living Water series, "The Well." and I loved "The Thief" even more. It's a beautifully woven tale of desperation and heartache, set during the most explosive events in biblical history. I felt transported back to the noisy, chaotic streets of old Jerusalem as I ran with Nissa through the dangerous alleys and rode with Longinus in his search for the thief, with a much bigger story, that of Jesus and what would happen to him, gradually unfolding. The roles Nissa and Longinus play in that story kept me turning pages and holding my breath until the end. This novel is not to be missed, and I look forward to the next from this talented new author.

I received a copy of this novel from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.

this is a profound and heart-wrenching novel wrought of some of the most luscious imagery I have ever encountered in a CBA novel. It relies on expert pacing, perfect characterization and a strong sense of faith to bring its powerful message to fruition. Paralleling the last of Christ's time on Earth, Longinus and Nissa undergo a beautiful and moving transformation borne of utmost sacrifice that paves the way to confounding love.

I love how Landsem brings to life the characters of the time and makes the reader feel as though they are there in the streets of Jerusalem. This was an emotionally charged and thrilling novel in which the reader connects with the characters and feels compassion for them, from the poor girl trying to provide for her family to the thief who brought her into this life of disgrace to the soldier who is torn between his loyalty to Caesar and what he knows is right. It helped me to imagine what it must have really been like to be there when Jesus was in the height of his ministry and to understand more fully how the people of Jerusalem, whether Jewish, Roman, Greek or otherwise, interacted with each other on a daily basis as well as what they might have been thinking about this man who was teaching and performing miracles. No matter what I thought might happen next story, there were surprises at every turn that wouldn't allow me to put the book down!

I Highly recommend this book which is number two in Stephanie Landsem's Living Water Series. I suggest that you read her book, The Well First since there are characters that carry over from one book to the other. If you have never read a fiction novel that is centered on biblical settings, then you will be pleasantly surprised. I found her novels very enjoyable. I appreciate her attention to biblical facts and her creative storytelling. Looking forward to reading Stephanie's third book in the series, The Tomb.

The Thief shows Jerusalem during the last days of Christ and under the rule of the Romans. I really felt like I was transported back in time and felt as though I was there in the streets with characters of Nissa, the Jew, and Longinus, the Roman. I loved how the author showed different reactions when Jesus Christ would come to the city.
I really enjoyed The Thief. I thought it was a great read! Highly recommended.

How many times have you heard the story of Christ's Passion and crucifixion? Landsem's unusual point of view perspective on the story makes you understand-- more than ever-- what it was like to be there. Incredible historical details give this book a rich texture that lets you taste the dust. I don't read a lot of Christian fiction, but I was glad to have picked up this one, and I'll be eagerly awaiting Landsem's next book.

The plot clipped right along, surprising me and compelling me to keep reading. I finished this book the same way I finished The Well: very quickly :) I enjoyed the insight into what life might have been like at the time of Jesus, and who doesn't love a clean love story?

I did receive a free copy of this book with the request that I post honest reviews, so that's what this is. :)

The Thief is based on a collection of accounts from the Bible, which are woven into the life story of a fictional character named Mouse. Stephanie breathes life into each of her complex characters in such a way that you find yourself drawn into the story and feeling for each character, not wanting to put the book down as you finish a chapter. I have visited Jerusalem, and seen the model of the old Jerusalem, and the descriptions in the book are spot on. I think that is part of the reason that you can get lost in the book; it feels so real. The underlying themes of redemptive suffering, unconditional love, and redemption are not often found in books these days. This is a book that forces you to reflect, and stays with you a long time. I highly recommend it.

Clear your calendar because you will not want to put this book down once you begin reading it. Just like in "The Well," Stephanie Landsem grabs you from the very first line and takes you on a wonderful journey. This is perfect Lenten reading. She does a beautiful job of conveying what the Passion looked like, sounded like, felt like and even smelled like. For example, I felt like I was standing near Jesus at the time of Jesus' agony in the garden. In my opinion, Ms. Landsem's greatest triumph with "The Thief" is the story line that parallels Jesus' sacrifice. This story line really helped to drive home for me in an even more personal way Jesus' sacrifice in dying for our sins. I can't wait until Ms. Landsem's next novel!

I thoroughly enjoy Stephanie Landsem's books, but I think this has been my favorite so far. I love how she takes Bible stories everyone knows and writes the "back story" for these characters. Everyone knows Jesus healed a man born blind, but what was his life like after Jesus healed him? The author explores that possibility, mainly through the eyes of his sister. She also weaves in the lives of the two who end up on crosses on the sides of Jesus. Masterfully done! I look forward to more books by Stephanie Landsem!

Landsem’s highly anticipated sophomore novel, The Thief, released this month. Like her debut book, the story was well plotted and powerful, with great imagery sprinkled throughout. I especially enjoyed the character, Longinus, and his role in the crucifixion of Jesus (no spoiler alerts here, just a nod to the creativity Landsem displays in weaving in his backstory). Romance readers will also enjoy this book, maybe even more than the author’s first novel, since the romantic thread played a larger part in the development of this tale. This was a fast, enthralling read, and one I am happy to recommend.

Stephanie just wanted to thank you again for the book. I enjoyed it so much. I sat up until 1 a.m. finishing it because I just had to know how it ended. You are now one of my favorite authors. Can't wait to read "The Well" and any other books you write. Also thanks for signing the book! And to update this I have now read "The Well". Loved both books!! I can't wait to read future books, I hope you have another one ready to be released soon. Louise Koiner

Very rarely have I read fiction set during biblical times that was worth the read... the exceptions are books by Louis De Wohl. I have read books by Francine Rivers and they were good, but not nearly as good as this series! The Thief was a one of the best fiction novels I've read in a long time and brings to life the times of Jesus in a light I've never seen before. Makes you think about how you would approach living in that period, what your choices would be, how they are different now (especially for women), etc. Seriously ate this book up :).

The sins of the most criminal, unworthy due to lifestyle choices shown unforgettable examples of unconditional love. This is a great story showcasing the final days of Jesus and those that were left behind. A great story and one I will always remember.

Absolutely a 5-star read. Landsem deftly mixes Biblical accounts of events with fictional characters to bring together a story that flows beautifully. This novel is the story of a young girl who steals to survive and support her blind brother, and how her life collides with that of a young centurion, two veteran thieves and Jesus Christ. The crucifixion scene is not for the faint of heart, but don't miss this novel.

This book is an amazing tribute, albeit fictional, to our Lord Jesus Christ....I pray that The Living Water Series thrives and this beautiful author continues to allow God to use her as His vessel...I want to thank you for showing me hope amongst adversity....Be blessed. This is a must read. You will not be disappointed.

Stephanie Landsem brings the bible story alive. The characters become your friends (or enemies). She cleverly inserts historical facts and customs. This makes understanding what might have happened in the Bible make more sense. For example, I now better understand the relationship between the ruling Romans and the Jewish population. I would recommend this book to anyone that enjoys historic novels and a great read.

An amazing story. The Thief has characters that you want to meet and spend time with. It tells the story of the blind man given sight by Jesus, but goes on to explain how the miracle effected the lives of the blind man and his family. The story is set in ancient Jerusalem but seems to speak to everyone's need for hope and forgiveness. A truly touching story that should not be missed.

Stephanie does a wonderful job telling a fictional story yet holding firm to biblical accuracy - hard to do. Also read her 1st book "The Well", which was equally amazing and biblically accurate. Although there is some cross over of characters in both books, you need not read them in order. Can't wait for the 3rd book, The Tomb, to come out in April 2015.

The Thief should be required Lenten reading for every soul. The world is begging for this story of God' redemptive mercy. I finished and I wanted nothing more than to run to the Bible to learn more of the Truth. Landsem has an incredible gift. Praise God she has said, "Yes."

Stefanie Landsem has a writing style that keeps your interest from cover to cover. Both of her books, The Well and The Thief have stories that put you into the days of Jesus. The Thief captures you immediately. A book you can not put down! This book is a must read!

I really liked the pace and depth of character development in this book. The presentation of conflicting emotions within a character is skillfully done. I'm curious about the subtle connections with the first book in the series.