The Masked City
Ratings14
Average rating3.8
15
Ratings14
Average rating3.8
Librarian-spy Irene and her apprentice Kai are back in the second in this “dazzling”* book-filled fantasy series from the author of The Invisible Library. The written word is mightier than the sword—most of the time... Working in an alternate version of Victorian London, Librarian-spy Irene has settled into a routine, collecting important fiction for the mysterious Library and blending in nicely with the local culture. But when her apprentice, Kai—a dragon of royal descent—is kidnapped by the Fae, her carefully crafted undercover operation begins to crumble. Kai’s abduction could incite a conflict between the forces of chaos and order that would devastate all worlds and all dimensions. To keep humanity from getting caught in the crossfire, Irene will have to team up with a local Fae leader to travel deep into a version of Venice filled with dark magic, strange coincidences, and a perpetual celebration of Carnival—and save her friend before he becomes the first casualty of a catastrophic war. But navigating the tumultuous landscape of Fae politics will take more than Irene’s book-smarts and fast-talking—to ward off Armageddon, she might have to sacrifice everything she holds dear.... INCLUDES AUTHOR INTERVIEW
Reviews with the most likes.
A great fun read, pretty much non-stop action yet somehow squeezing in excellent character development and a setting that is a joy to explore. If you haven't read book 1 which introduces Irene the world-hopping hero-Librarian, I recommend it.
For those who have read book 1, the following should be spoiler free if you've read the blurb:
Book 1 had Irene in one “Victorian” world with her assistant Kai (a dragon in disguise) and local consulting detective Peregrine Vale (who lives on Baker Street, need I say more?). Book 2 opens with [really mild spoiler - for page 2] Kai being kidnapped. This sets the stage for a much more epic adventure to save Kai and prevent a multi-world war between the (Lawful) Dragons and the (Chaotic) Fae.In the progress we get to see more worlds and learn far more about the workings of the multiverse. We also get to know our old friends better, and meet some brilliant new characters.If you loved the humour and amazingly creative action from the first book, you're in for a treat.
Btw. In the “About the Author” section it said Ms Cogman has worked with RPGs., for those who know their RPGs I will add three words: “Planescape, Shadowrun, Mage:TA” ... mixed with Ms Cogman's excellent secret spice.
Series
7 primary booksThe Invisible Library is a 8-book series with 8 primary works first released in 2014 with contributions by Genevieve Cogman and Arno Hoven.
