Following a series of murders, an apothecary’s apprentice must solve puzzles and decipher codes in pursuit of a secret that could destroy the world in this “spectacular debut” (Kirkus Reviews, starred review).
“Tell no one what I’ve given you.”
Until he got that cryptic warning, Christopher Rowe was happy, learning how to solve complex codes and puzzles and creating powerful medicines, potions, and weapons as an apprentice to Master Benedict Blackthorn—with maybe an explosion or two along the way.
But when a mysterious cult begins to prey on London’s apothecaries, the trail of murders grows closer and closer to Blackthorn’s shop. With time running out, Christopher must use every skill he’s learned to discover the key to a terrible secret with the power to tear the world apart.
In his stunning debut novel, Kevin Sands brings readers on a heart-stopping adventure rich with suspense, mystery, and unforgettable characters.
Download and start listening now!
“Whether they’re in mortal terror or mere horseplay, narrator Ray Panthaki makes the dialogue between the two heroes of this audiobook sound honest and warm…Like Harry Potter and Ron, they’re a memorable pair…Panthaki clearly defines the varying social standing of the many characters through his diction…Winner of the AudioFile Earphones Award.”
— AudioFile
“Brimming with secrets, traps, friendship, intrigue, pigeons, potions, loyalty, and explosions…this thrilling adventure will keep you hooked.”
— Ingrid Law, New York Times bestselling author“In a genre where many adults are either dead, detached, or outright villainous, a caring adult with complete faith in his charge’s savvy is a nice change. The true villains of the book are cleverly concealed, resulting in a puzzle-filled, satisfyingly twisty tale.”
— New York Times Book Review“An exciting and self-assured tale of alchemy and dark secrets…Sands adeptly balances the novel’s darker turns with moments of levity and humor and fills the book with nicely detailed characters and historical background—plus lots of explosions.”
— Publishers Weekly (starred review)“This stunning and smart mystery is made even better by well-researched historical detail, intriguing characters, and genuinely funny moments…Christopher makes a terrific protagonist, but it’s his love for his friends and master as well as his fearless intellectual curiosity that make him a true hero…A spectacular debut.”
— Kirkus Reviews (starred review)Be the first to write a review about this audiobook!
Kevin Sands, since escaping from university with a pair of degrees in theoretical physics, has worked as a researcher, a business consultant, and a teacher. He is the author of the award-winning and bestselling Blackthorn Key series.
Ray Panthaki is a voice talent and AudioFile Earphones Award–winning narrator.