27 Apr 2016

MORTLAKE.



MORTLAKE (THE MAPS OF TIME #2) by COLIN GARROW.


AMAZON.CO.UK BLURB (Kindle Edition): In the dark and dangerous streets of 1630s London, Felch is back, and this time he's determined to get what he wants - whatever happens. But Tom and his friends have other things on their minds - when one of Deacon's maps is stolen, the ancient library of Dr Dee seems to be the one place that holds all the keys... 

FIRST SENTENCE {Chattels}: Dark. Cold.

MEMORABLE MOMENT {Chapter Nine ~ Making Plans}: "Hmm." Deacon frowns. "Had I not developed an interest in gaining knowledge of that which I did not understand, I myself might have remained ignorant of updrafts, secret passageways and indeed, time travel."

Tom taps a finger on the map. "Maybe that's it. Maybe only people who want to find it, can find it."

SOURCE: Received for review from the author.

MY THOUGHTS: First thoughts? What an amazing cover. It isn't often that I share the back cover but simply had to share this with you.

Hot on the heels of the first book in the series, The Architect's Apprentice, the author brings us the equally enjoyable Mortlake.

A series undoubtedly best read from the beginning. Left on something of a cliffhanger, I do hope it won't be too long before part three is published such is my desire to read more of the adventures of Tom and co. Not something I ever dreamt to feel as notoriously bad at following (to say nothing of understanding) time slip/travel novels, suffice to say these books have come as a bit of a revelation to me.

Arguably more adventure laden, mysterious and suspenseful than The Architect's Apprentice, Mortlake is certainly that bit darker as we see the return of the villainous Felch who, his knowledge seemingly way ahead of that of 'the architect', uses the updrafts to travel around in time in search of .... well, that would be telling.

Alchemist Dr John Dee a wonderful addition. As with its predecessor it is the mix of adult and child, fictional and actual characters (albeit doubtlessly written with a fair amount of poetic licence) that makes this series so enjoyable. 

The sense of time and place compelling. The intrigue? Nothing short of, well, thoroughly intriguing. The author not only manages to capture the attention of his reader but holds it throughout.


12 comments:

Kelly said...

This one sounds every bit as good as the first in the series. And yes, the cover photo is excellent! (front and back)

If I didn't already have so many books to read, I'd put this series on my wish list, even if it is a YA series. Do you know how many the author plans or is it open-ended?

Felicity Grace Terry said...

As far as I know Kelly it's a trilogy.

Kelly said...

If that's the case, I may well get them at some point. They really do sound good.

Brian Joseph said...

This sounds like a series that I would like.

Mystical elements mixed with good characterization is something that appeals to me in a book. I need to fit more time in to read books of this sort.

Suko said...

This book sounds truly wonderful, Tracy! The opening and the memorable moment are full of intrigue.

Colin said...

In response to Kelly's comment - a friend of mine once suggested 'The Maps of Time' should be a series of 12 books. Can't say I've thought that far ahead, but you never know!

Sandra Cox said...

Sounds like a fascinating read.
Thanks for sharing.

Natasha said...

Agreed, I love the front and back cover of this - completely intriguing form the get-go! Loved the memorable moment you shared too, will definitely have to find this. - Tasha

Gina said...

Sounds good my friend but I agree, may be one best read from the start of the set. Agreed on the cover... very eye catching! Thanks for the share!

Melissa (Books and Things) said...

Honestly I would have passed this one by, but really need to check it out. It sounds like something I would enjoy as well.

Hope you are feeling better! Take Care!

Mary (Bookfan) said...

Ha, I'm such a wimp. The cover kinda scares me!!

Kimberly @ Caffeinated Reviewer said...

Oh this sounds like something I could sink my teeth into. Hopefully the next book is out soon!