Never Trust a Thief! by Robert Silverberg

(8 User reviews)   938
By Emma Robinson Posted on Mar 30, 2026
In Category - Cultural Memory
Silverberg, Robert, 1935- Silverberg, Robert, 1935-
English
Hey, have you read 'Never Trust a Thief!' by Robert Silverberg? It's this fantastic, fast-paced adventure that feels like a classic Hollywood caper, but with a sci-fi twist. The story follows a slick thief named Lancer who thinks he's pulled off the ultimate heist, only to find out the priceless artifact he stole is way more than it seems. It's not just a treasure—it's a key to something ancient and dangerous. Now he's on the run from rival criminals, shady government agents, and forces he can't even understand, all while trying to figure out what he's really holding. The best part? It makes you question who you'd trust if your biggest score could change the world. If you like stories where the chase never lets up and the hero is in way over his head, you'll tear through this one.
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I just finished Robert Silverberg's 'Never Trust a Thief!' and it was a blast—a perfect blend of heist thriller and science fiction mystery. Silverberg, a master of the genre, keeps things moving at a breakneck pace from the first page to the last.

The Story

We meet Lancer, a professional thief with a reputation for clean getaways. His latest job seems straightforward: steal a mysterious, jeweled object from a heavily guarded museum. He succeeds, but his victory is short-lived. The artifact isn't just a pretty trinket; it's a piece of alien technology with immense, dormant power. Suddenly, everyone wants it. Lancer finds himself hunted by his vengeful former employer, a ruthless crime syndicate, and a secretive government agency that knows more about the object's true nature than anyone. With no allies and the artifact humming with unknown energy, Lancer's fight for survival becomes a race to uncover the truth before it falls into the wrong hands—or activates on its own.

Why You Should Read It

This book is so much fun because Lancer is a great character. He's clever and resourceful, but he's also completely outmatched, and watching him scramble is a joy. Silverberg doesn't waste time. The plot twists and turns, but it's always clear and easy to follow. It's not a heavy philosophical read; it's a smart, entertaining adventure that asks a simple, compelling question: what happens when a crook becomes the only person standing between a powerful secret and total chaos? The tension comes from not knowing who, if anyone, Lancer can bargain with or trust, including the object itself.

Final Verdict

'Never Trust a Thief!' is a gem for anyone who loves classic, plot-driven sci-fi and adventure. It's perfect for fans of quick reads with lots of action, clever puzzles, and a protagonist who's always just one step ahead of disaster. If you're looking for a book to get lost in for an afternoon—one that feels like a thrilling movie—this is it. Silverberg delivers a tight, satisfying story that proves why he's remained a favorite for so long.

Melissa Rodriguez
1 year ago

I started reading out of curiosity and the depth of research presented here is truly commendable. I couldn't put it down.

Donna Lewis
9 months ago

After finishing this book, the atmosphere created is totally immersive. I couldn't put it down.

Jessica Torres
2 months ago

Fast paced, good book.

Sarah Hernandez
7 months ago

I had low expectations initially, however the pacing is just right, keeping you engaged. Worth every second.

Anthony Johnson
7 months ago

Text is crisp, making it easy to focus.

4.5
4.5 out of 5 (8 User reviews )

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