The year is 1806. Bastard-born jewel thief David Lambert has few rules in his personal life. Never bed the staff, never more than once with the same man, and never, ever, kiss. Attending an aristocratic party and relieving some of the wealthy of their possessions should be easy, but in the space of a weekend, one by one all his rules are shattered by a footman with a secret.<br><br>Jeremy Naylor thought he had found the man of his dreams, the one man who might understand him. Someone passionate, handsome, and respectable. But in one shocking moment his world is destroyed, and he is forced to run for his life.<br><br>Flung together to escape the hangman’s noose, the passion between David and Jeremy burns fiercely. But Jeremy yearns for respectability, and David refuses to admit what lies in his heart. Will they find a way together, or will their differences lead them to the very brink of disaster and the shadow of the gallows?

Thief of Hearts

“How will you get in?” Spencer asked as they dodged a band of rowdy young men.


“Just after they walk them to the gallows, the main gate will be clear. Bill has seen to it.” David pulled his hat lower. “Pick the lock, get in, let as many people as we can in to create confusion if we need to, then grab him.”


Spencer nodded as they progressed. The noise was alarming. So much shouting, shrieking, and the low, excited murmur filled David with a sick dread. Dandies appeared to be everywhere, pressing themselves into the inns with the best views, even families. David had no idea what the condemned had done, but surely it wasn’t enough to deserve this.


The bell of the Holy Sepulchre tolled the hour at seven, and David was ready. Kendrick and Jo would enter the prison with him, Spencer and Bentham would be ready with the cart, Charnley would be in position inside the prison, ready to take part.


Chapter 68