Review from October 2012:
I liked this one despite the confusing structure with the interludes - there was at least one instance where the timing was very much not "in order". Locke is an interesting character and I had fun following his exploits. I downloaded the second book right after finishing this one, a good sign I'd say.

Review from 2016:
This is a fantasy book about a thief named Locke Lamora - obviously - and his gang. The story is set in a city named Camora and begins as they are in the early stages of the execution of the biggest heist they have ever planned. It's somewhat complicated and rather daring and features a few early "oops" moments that made me smile. But then the ante is upped when the Grey King makes his first off-stage appearance killing other gang leaders - colleagues of Locke's. From there on the tension rises and rises and there are many moments where I was sure there was no way out for them ... well and sometimes there really isn't. The gang is well-characterized with the Sanza twins, Bug, and Jean. Even the absent Sabetha. I enjoy the world in which buildings from an ancient civilization create an unlikely city. Magic is extremely rare, and powerful. More common is the art of Alchemy which is described in a round-about but fascinating way giving only hints at what's possible. All in all a great book. But I have to deduct one star because it feels somewhat lengthy (it is long but it shouldn't feel that way, no book should) and the plot tends to meander a bit. Minor I'd have liked to have the Grey King tied into Locke's early life somehow, maybe through foreshadowing him in those parts with Chains. But he isn't and so he comes out of nowhere.

Sometimes I wonder if Sanderson was inspired by the interwoven story of Locke's early life for Way of Kings. If he was, he should have looked closer because as much as I love [b: Way of Kings|7235533|The Way of Kings (The Stormlight Archive, #1)|Brandon Sanderson|https://d.gr-assets.com/books/1448127430s/7235533.jpg|8134945] this book does it better. I enjoyed those little episodes from the past way more than I did Kaladin's backstory in Way of Kings.