Tab Article

ratings: ★★★★☆ (4.3/5)
Genre: Historical Fiction, Fantasy, Young Adult

Book Review:
Internationally renowned historical novelist Philippa Gregory takes a thrilling detour into the realms of mystery and the supernatural with her ''Order of Darkness'' series, and this omnibus edition collecting the first three volumes is the perfect way to dive in. The Times called her previous book ''unputdownable,'' and that description fits this collection perfectly.

Set in the year 1460, a time when all signs seem to point towards the impending apocalypse, the story follows Luca Vero, a young man accused of heresy and expelled from his monastery. He is recruited by a mysterious stranger for a secret mission: to travel across Europe and document the signs of the end of days. His first assignment takes him to a nunnery where the women are showing terrifying signs of demonic possession, all under the authority of an imprisoned young Lady Abbess, Isolde.

Thrown together by danger, Luca, his loyal and pragmatic friend Freize, the fierce and intelligent Isolde, and her skilled companion Ishraq form an unlikely fellowship. Their journey takes them across a vividly rendered medieval Europe, where they must disentangle reality from fear, uncovering dark secrets and confronting the shadowy forces of the ''Order of Darkness.''

Gregory's trademark talent for rich, detailed historical world-building is on full display. The Daily Telegraph praised her ''deftly conceived... richly detailed'' writing in the first book, Changeling. She brings the 15th century to life, with its superstitions, its political intrigues, and its looming sense of dread. The characters are compelling, particularly the strong-willed Isolde and the resourceful Ishraq, who bring a feminist edge to the narrative.

This collection is a gripping blend of historical fiction, gothic mystery, and supernatural thrills. It's a page-turner that will appeal to Gregory's established fans as well as young adult readers looking for an exciting and immersive adventure.