Description of book
At a loss after finishing their end-of-year exams, Aubrey and George travel to the Gallian capital, Lutetia, where it so happens that the lovely Caroline is studying natural history.
Aubrey wants to pursue a cure for his condition - though his family have other ideas, and he's soon burdened with a royal mystery to solve, old letters to procure, a missing ornithologist to locate and a spot of diplomatic espionage. These tasks should keep Aubrey occupied - but that would be underestimating Aubrey's sense of curiosity and uncanny knack of being in the wrong place at the wrong time.
Someone is stealing people's souls and turning them into mindless monsters, and the country's magical lifeline, the Heart of Gold, has been stolen, leaving the city in chaos. Aubrey, George, and a somewhat reluctant Caroline are on the case . . .
Reviews
'This second title in the Laws of Magic series is a ripper. Pryor's writing is strong and witty and his ingenious blend of fantasy, mystery/crime, historical, romance genres with political undertones … will surely persuade those not enamoured of fantasy to the genre … There is adventure, fun, derring do aplenty, and sufficient twists and turns in the plot to keep the most astute mystery unraveller attentive.' Pam Macintyre, VIEWPOINT
'Pryor is a master of suspense and vividly realised magical experiences ... Let us hope for a third volume in 2008.' MAGPIES
'How the author manages to weave all these strands together into a truly exciting page-turner is magic in itself! Unreservedly recommended.' Abbey's Bookshop
'Set in the era of airships, HEART OF GOLD is a pleasure to read, with its fascinating world elegantly created by Pryor. There is a wonderful Olde Worlde atmosphere, and a plot rich in old fashioned camaraderie, romance and horror. Aubrey is a likeable hero and I look forward to reading the third installment.' Dawn Meredith, BUZZWORDS newsletter
Praise for BLAZE OF GLORY:
'Could be put in the same league as the work of Eoin Colfer, Christopher Paolini and (dare I say it) JK Rowling... BLAZE OF GLORY will not disappoint.' VIEWPOINT
'Blaze of Glory is undoubtedly one of the best books I've read this year. Hooked deftly from the first clever line, I was transfixed to the very end by a writer utterly in control of his craft . . . Long live Aubrey Fitzwilliam!' Kate Forsyth, Aurealis #40