A Burnable Book (John Gower #1) by Bruce Holsinger

Final Rating: 4.2/5

   A Burnable Book is a richly textured read that like a savory pie needs to be enjoyed slowly. We have the crust that is the first gripping chapter that draws the eye of the reader and tempts the curious to sample more, then as the shell is broken the reader will be surprised to uncover an assortment of complex characters that all have a hand in touching a potentially dangerous book called "Book of The Deaths of English Kings". Set in 14th-century England and beyond the realm, the reader is submerged into the darker side of the lanes and liberties of human drudgery and misery that pervaded many lives of those of the period. Narrations and views switch between those of the genteel standing, the unfortunate who specialize in self preservation and the others who battle their principles and private demons. The meat of the story is the hunt across the divided four corners of London, Southswark and Westminster for a book that contains 13 prophecies of historical significance. The sauce thickens as time is of the essence because the surrounding church bells ring and the risk escalates for those already involved and yet another soul views the pages of the poisonous book, a deadly countdown has begun and it appears no one is exempt from the fickle wheel of fate.

   In the end, this was a difficult but a worthwhile read for this reader. I will the first to admit that at many times my mind strayed to the other books I had waiting for me but there was just something so unique and interesting about this one that I just stepped away for a time then returned. So glad I did this and I encourage any frustrated reader to do the same. Just step away and come back because Mr. Holsinger will reward you with a truly standout tale that has many multifaceted puzzles, historical details and pulls such a diverse characterization from the medieval class that will have the patient reader applauding such a daring debut. Although at times for this reader A Burnable Book could be a little salty with a few overly vivid images and scenes and the ending a little cluttered and sometimes confusing with so many multi-layered secrets and motives. That all aside, A Burnable Book is a rich historical detailed read that is simply a book to savor.

-read and purchased on kindle

Next in series:

The Invention of Fire (John Gower #2)

by Bruce Holsinger