"The Thief of Always" is a fantasy novel by Clive Barker that follows a young boy named Harvey Swick. Tired of the mundane aspects of life, Harvey discovers a magical place called Holiday House, where every day is filled with fun and excitement. However, he soon realizes that this enchanting world hides dark secrets. As Harvey explores Holiday House, he encounters strange creatures and learns that time flows differently there. The allure of eternal joy comes at a cost, and Harvey must confront the sinister forces that control the house to escape and return to his normal life.