The Boy Who Steals Houses was *Just Right*

*Received from Netgalley in exchange for review- but the gushing you’re about to see is all me!*

It wasn’t too big, or too small- it was *perfection*!! In case my title or terrible jokes aren’t enough of a clue, this is actually a modern Goldilocks retelling. I’ve got to say, I’ve never come across its like until now and this makes it practically a dream come true for a reviewer! It’s completely and utterly unique!

Before I picked this up, I was familiar with Cait’s awesome blog @Paper Fury (who isn’t?) had read A Thousand Perfect Notes and obviously *loved* the writing style- which is why I couldn’t wait to pick this up.

After that I knew I simply had to read it. And boy did it deliver the goods! With delightful attention to detail and impressive technique, Cait paints a picture of the perfect family colliding with an intruder. In her signature style, the images are acutely drawn and the characters are brought to life.

Before I get to anything else, I have to say I liked the “before” and “after” element (which, yes, I’ve stolen for my review 😉). I especially appreciated the way it addressed the darkness lurking in his past and how it was effectively built up over time. I thought the representation across the board was expertly handled and allowed this book to be incredibly hard hitting. It was so intense that I was holding my breath for pages at a time. And on top of that, it got better and better as the story progressed!

After I got into the narrative though, I realised it’s not a gloomy view of the world! There is plenty of light that shines through; there are quiet moments that make themselves heard. The story and romance melted my heart with its cuteness. It was funny and sweet and made me *feel all the feels* (I’m not crying, you are!) It’s safe to say, this book snatched up my heart and ran away with it. I can only give it all the bananas in the hopes I might trade it back:

Rating: 5/5 bananas

 

But just in case it’s a *no deal*, I got all dressed up to even up my odds:

So have you read this or Cait’s other book? Do you plan to? Let me know in the comments!