A gripping historical mystery, full of 18th century atmosphere.
Fifteen-year-old Tom lives in the murky city of London where he helps his fa... read full description
Fifteen-year-old Tom lives in the murky city of London where he helps his fa... read full description
reviews
Dec 20, 2011
Morag
rated it: 
A competent historical novel for ages 11+ or therabouts, set in London in 1714-1715. Tom Marlow, a printer's apprenctice, becomes involved with a murder case where the victims all carry a small card with death and an arrow printed on them.
Tom is inclined to have 21st century sensibilities; otherwise characters are somewhat stereotypical - the blustering father, the rogues with heart of gold, the noble savage, the clever doctor, the evil villains.
Good, but not Leon Garfield.
Tom is inclined to have 21st century sensibilities; otherwise characters are somewhat stereotypical - the blustering father, the rogues with heart of gold, the noble savage, the clever doctor, the evil villains.
Good, but not Leon Garfield.
Jun 07, 2010
Phair
rated it: 
Disappointing. The overall feel was rather shallow with no real depth of character or setting. The whole thing had a superficial feel to it. Might be suitable for reluctant readers looking for an adventure story but that's as much recommendation as I can give it.
Dec 12, 2008
Sharon
rated it:
A decent story. Good time period setting and details. But the protagonist got a lot of help from adults, which seems to me to be less engaging for young readers than when the young protagonist is more empowered.
Feb 20, 2010
Cheryl
rated it: 
Tom Marlow's friend is Will is killed. Will's death is linked to other mysterious murder of men who are linked by their service in the French and Indian war in the Americas. A quick read for young adults.
Aug 08, 2011
Really really disappointed by this book, nowhere as good as Uncle Montague! Very disappointed!
Mar 13, 2011
Tracey
rated it:
This book was part of a series known as the Tom Marlowe series, but is a stand alone novel and a great little read. Based in London 1715, it is a medieval 'whodunnit' and was very enjoyable to read.
Similarly to P.C. Doherty, Priestley conjurs up the smell and feel of the city during this period which was what attracted me to read this book.
Similarly to P.C. Doherty, Priestley conjurs up the smell and feel of the city during this period which was what attracted me to read this book.
Aug 16, 2007
Christina
rated it: 
A very interesting story that takes place in 1715 London. Tom Marlowe tries to solve the murder of his friend Will, a pickpocket. There are rooftop chases, strange mysterious hooded figures lurking in foggy doorways, corpse-stealing doctors, lots of atmosphere and a good mystery with a surprise ending. Plus if you ever wanted to know what 1700's London was like, this book takes you there!
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