Mark of the Plague

Blackthorn Key, Book 2

By: Kevin Sands

Narrated by: Ray Panthaki

Christopher Rowe is back, and there are more puzzles, riddles, and secrets to uncover in this follow-up to the Indie Next pick The Blackthorn Key, which was called a "spectacular debut" by Kirkus Reviews.

The Black Death has returned to London, spreading disease and fear through town. A mysterious prophet predicts the city's ultimate doom - until an unknown apothecary arrives with a cure that actually works. Christopher's Blackthorn shop is chosen to prepare the remedy. But when an assassin threatens the apothecary's life, Christopher and his faithful friend, Tom, are back to hunting down the truth, risking their lives to untangle the heart of a dark conspiracy.

And as the sickness strikes close to home, the stakes are higher than ever before.

©2016 Kevin Sands. All rights reserved. (P)2016 Simon & Schuster

Wow, what a twist!

I really love the way these books are written. Not only is it history and mystery, it's true friendship in action and in the end finding family in the place that was there all along, just to close to see. Have to admit, there for a bit, I was afraid my kids had gotten themselves in a little too deep to dig out of....but, nope...Thank goodness!

Love this narrator

Would you recommend this audiobook to a friend? If so, why?

I would -- and have -- recommended this series to everyone I know. Several family members got the first book for Christmas this year. First, the narrator is amazing and really draws you into the story. Our family feels like we know the protagonist, Christopher Rowe. The Blackthorn Key audiobooks are fun, exciting and make car rides infinitely more enjoyable.

What was one of the most memorable moments of Mark of the Plague?

All of Christopher's code breaking and near misses and entertaining.

Which character – as performed by Ray Panthaki – was your favorite?

Christopher Rowe.

Was this a book you wanted to listen to all in one sitting?

Totally.

Any additional comments?

I've noticed that Ray Panthaki isn't narrating the next book. I have yet to listen, but I'd love him to return for subsequent books. For me, his narration is half of the enjoyment.

good historical mystery

Set against the backdrop of the great plague, this book is basically a well crafter mystery. the reader is provided with enough clues to solve it. there are also a lot of loveble characters including Brigitte, the dove, and some very believable villains. great read with a bit of history thrown in.a

Mark of the plague

AMAZING I loved this so much and have become so attached to the story I can’t wait for the next book

Brilliant book, great performance.

The author skillfully brings together science, chemistry, code-breaking and history in an accurate and relatable story. Well done...

Best book of the series love it so much

So good a must read book for the entire series it's making me write more words

Good, Just not as good as Book 1

The first half of this book is too slow for me. There are too many tidbits of interesting story that divert into slow dialogue or frustratingly shift to another scene. There are also extremely painful moments when the protagonist, who is well established as a savant in problem solving, is oblivious to a glaringly obvious detail. I found myself yelling at the story quite often.
The second half, on the other hand, was RIVETING. I couldn't stop listening once the plot picked up. There were thrilling near-misses, daring escapes, and surprising twists (that built on the extremely obvious detail from the first half). The ending will leave you wowed and weeping.
With all that said, I recommend picking up this title, especially if you were a fan of the first. The greatest part was getting to know Sands' interesting characters better. Just be patient with the first half ;)