If Anastasia's Dimitri snatched the rats from Ratatouille and began waltzing the streets of Agrabah, this would be that story.

A no spice, romantic reimagining of the Pied Piper

The Pied Piper is a con artist, not a hero. But when a spirited young woman upends his latest scheme, he finds himself on a quest he never agreed to.

As’ad makes his living the dishonest way—unleashing swarms of rats into unsuspecting towns and then "saving" them for a price. He’s pulled it off so many times, he could run the con in his sleep. But when Rahma, an infuriatingly determined girl with more self-confidence than sense, insists he escort her across the kingdom to find her missing best friend, his well-crafted schemes begin to unravel.

Rahma is relentless. She talks too much, trusts too easily, and has no idea how to survive beyond her own doorstep. Yet, as they stumble upon a dangerous conspiracy—one that involves missing orphans and a sinister underground network—As’ad realizes he might actually care. Not just about the fate of those children… but about Rahma.

Too bad she has no business falling for a scoundrel. And he has no business falling for her.

For fans of fairy tale retellings, reluctant heroes, and adventure with a touch of humor. This clean fantasy romance novella features a charming rogue, an independent heroine, forced proximity, witty banter, and more than a few adorable rats.

To Sway A Swindler is Book 4 in the Tempting Thieves Collection.

Tempting Thieves is a diverse multi-author romantasy collection featuring cunning thieves who outsmart relentless hunters, steal forbidden treasures, and find love along the way. With enemies-to-lovers tension, slow-burn longing, forced proximity, secret identities, only one bed, and grumpy/sunshine dynamics, every story delivers an irresistible fantasy escape. Perfect for fans of forbidden romance, morally gray heroes, daring rogues, and clean yet sizzling chemistry. Each book in the collection is a standalone. Read in any order.

Published
April 25, 2025
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10/10

I thought this was an interesting Retelling of the Pied Piper which is a story I am less familiar. I thought all the characters in this book were well written and enjoyed getting to know both Rahma & As’ad as well as vaguely getting to know As’ad's pet rats. The reference to Aladdin in this book was also a fun touch for As’ad's history. I look forward to seeing what fairy tales this author will retell in the future.

I received a free advanced reader ebook copy of this book via StoryOrigin and am voluntarily leaving a review.

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