Title: A Thief Among Friends
Author: Carol Vallario
Publisher: XlibrisUS
ISBN: 978-1-6698-7752-3
Genre: Fiction/Friendship
Pages: 152
Reviewer: Margie Przybylski

Read Book Review

Author Carol Vallario’s A Thief Among Friends is an evocative and daring exploration of
friendship, betrayal, and the enduring complexities of human relationships. The novel
weaves together a rich narrative which spans years, focusing on four childhood friends –
Carol, Sue, Gail, and Donna – whose lives are irrevocably shaped by a single night that
exposed their differences and moral conflicts.

At its core, the book revolves around Carol Hunt, a character who is as magnetic as she
is morally ambiguous. From her early forays into theft during her teenage years to her
audacious scams as an adult, Carol embodies a fierce determination to succeed, albeit
through dubious means. Her actions serve as a stark contrast to her three friends, who
grapple with their own struggles yet remain tethered to a sense of moral grounding.

Vallario’s portrayal of Carol is unapologetically raw, showcasing her cunning intellect
and unrelenting ambition, even as it leaves readers questioning the cost of her choices.
The narrative is structured around pivotal moments in women’s lives, oscillating
between past and present to reveal how their friendships evolve – or unravel – over time.
The story begins with a shocking arrest scene that sets the tone for the unraveling of
Carol’s double life. From there, it delves into the friends’ teenage years, where Carol’s
first theft alienates her from the group, and follows them into adulthood, where they
each face their own challenges. Sue struggles with an affair that leaves her yearning for
stability, Donna battles addiction and seeks redemption, and Gail devotes herself to her
career while questioning the sacrifices it demands.

Vallario excels at capturing the nuances of friendship, particularly the delicate balance
between loyalty and self-preservation. The annual brunches shared by the women
serve as a poignant symbol of their enduring bond, even as secrets and judgments
linger beneath the surface. The tension between appearances and reality is palpable,
especially as Carol continues to deceive her friends about her success. This dynamic
invites readers to reflect on the facades people maintain to protect their relationships or
their own sense of self-worth.

The book’s pacing is brisk, unfolding with the urgency and immediacy of action playing
out right before your eyes. This novella is incredibly easy to devour in just a few hours,
making it a perfect companion for a cozy evening at home or a journey on the go. The
pulse-pounding scenes keep your heart racing, immersing you fully in Carol’s world and
her cascade of questionable decisions, allowing readers to experience the thrill of her
choices vicariously. This book is an enjoyable read for those of us who have left our
party days behind. However, it’s bittersweet to witness Carol spiraling further with each
bad decision, inching closer to rock bottom.

A Thief Among Friends is a thought-provoking and emotionally charged novel that
examines the interplay of morality, ambition, and friendship. Vallario’s sharp prose and
keen insight into human behavior make this a compelling read, especially for those who
enjoy stories that delve into the darker aspects of human nature. It is a stark reminder
that the ties that bind us can also be the very ones that break us.