Ratings65
Average rating4.4
Thomas Senlin and his crew of outcasts have been separated, and now they must face the dangers of the labyrinthine tower on their own in this third book in the word-of-mouth phenomenon fantasy series. "One of my favorite books of all time." - Mark Lawrence on Senlin Ascends Fearing an uprising, the Sphinx sends Senlin to investigate a plot that has taken hold in the ringdom of Pelphia. Alone in the city, Senlin infiltrates a bloody arena where hods battle for the public's entertainment. But his investigation is quickly derailed by a gruesome crime and an unexpected reunion. Posing as a noble lady and her handmaid, Voleta and Iren attempt to reach Marya, who is isolated by her fame. While navigating the court, Voleta attracts the unwanted attention of a powerful prince whose pursuit of her threatens their plan. Edith, now captain of the Sphinx's fierce flagship, joins forces with a fellow wakeman to investigate the disappearance of a beloved friend. She must decide who to trust as her desperate search brings her nearer to the Black Trail where the hods climb in darkness and whisper of the Hod King. As Senlin and his crew become further dragged in to the conspiracies of the Tower, everything falls to one question: Who is The Hod King? The Books of Babel:Senlin AscendsArm of the SphinxThe Hod King
Featured Series
4 primary books6 released booksThe Books of Babel is a 6-book series with 4 primary works first released in 2013 with contributions by Josiah Bancroft.
Series
4 primary booksBabel is a 4-book series with 4 primary works first released in 2013 with contributions by Josiah Bancroft.
Reviews with the most likes.
What an awesome ride! I loved the splitting plotlines and the re-convergence. I loved the opening quips of the chapters and the couple of new main characters. Very well done!
Our exploration of Bancroft's Steampunk Tower of Babel continues with this penultimate entry to the series. The invention of this series is second to none - weird and wonderful worldbuilding unlike anything else I have encountered. Here we are largely focused on the Ringdom (kingdom) of Pelphia.
Tom has been separated from the rest of his crew and sent to infiltrate first (under strict instructions not to try and contact his wife) whilst the rest of crew make their way there in the Sphinx's own airship. We finally begin to get more info on Tom's wife and more info on what the Hod's are up to.
The story continues to race along in its wave of whimsy. Bancroft has a wonderful gentle wit that permeates everything he writes. The characters are flawed but interesting and the world is fascinating. The Books of Babel are unlike anything else I have encountered - a highly recommended read!