I like Perfect Scoundrels. 
 ...What happened to Hale here? *frowns* 
 This is my least favorite among the series. The fun was almost absent, and the brilliant connivance was short and unsatisfying in the end. 
 Perfect Scoundrels went heavy on Hale's and Kat's drama. And I was miffed when they were described as "on-off" boyfriend/girlfriend. Really? They are an item? Because I am sure that I did not miss anything from Uncommon Criminals, because their relationship in that book was as vague as it was in Heist Society. And now? I have to jump in and deal with their romantic sorrows? Please. Unless there's an e-novella somewhere (and I know there's none) that showed how they officially got together, this itsy bitsy fact was downright inconsistent. 
 I did like that puzzle desk (what was it called again?), and I want one for myself. :P And I very much like Uncle Eddie and Kat's dad, Bob Bishop. For such an absent father, Kat and him have this warm and comfortable relationship. 
 This installment is all about Hale, and his elusive family background. How he keeps Kat away from his family while he keeps on popping up in Kat's, as seen in previous books. I miss the fun-loving, charming Hale. I don't want this emotional wreck, because he's reckless when doing the crew's job. 
 But I have to say that Kat here is more mature and composed, especially when she's dealing with Hale and the failing con job at the same time. And I admire Kat's philosophy on families. That you don't need to have blood ties to call someone family. That you can always, always rely on your family, if you ask for their help. 
 Sure, Perfect Scoundrels was a quick read, for Carter's writing was as engaging as ever. But the execution of the story was just flat, almost boring. The last three chapters I think is the core. Perhaps you can skip the rest, and read straight there? Kidding. :) 
 3.5/5 stars