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Hunt & Hooke #2
The Clockwork Assassins
1680. In the Norfolk Fens, a body is revealed, a man murdered during the time of the Civil Wars. Harry Hunt of the Royal Society is called to investigate, for the dead man is Sir Jeffrey Hudson, the Queen's dwarf, a fierce warrior for the Royalist cause, who once killed a man in a duel. But no one knew of Hudson's death...except the murderer. For years, an imposter has lived in Hudson's place, working as a spy. Now this man, too, has disappeared, taking with him knowledge of a plot to kill the Queen. Harry's search takes him to Paris, ruled by Louis XIV and the sinister Chief of Police, La Reynie. There, he becomes ensnared in a city obsessed with poisoning. With the help of a cross-dressing aristocratic swordswoman, who has schemes of her own, Harry embarks on a desperate race to return to London. He must save the Queen and all who gather for her Catholic Consult. He must save them from the Clockwork Assassins. The CLOCKWORK ASSASSINS is Harry Hunt's second adventure, the sequel to The BLOODLESS BOY.
372 pages, Paperback
Published December 2, 2016
41 people are currently reading
2529 people want to read
About the author
Robert J. Lloyd
8 books74 followersI grew up in the London suburbs, south of the river, and then in Sheffield.
At school I wanted to be an artist, thinking I was going to be the next great English painter. I did a BA degree in Fine Art, in Coventry, but moved more into art theory, ideas, and writing.
It was during my study for an MA in the History of Ideas, in Newcastle, that I discovered Robert Hooke's Diary, detailing his work as Curator of Experiments of the Royal Society, and as architect of the new London, after the Fire. The ideas and characters that I came across stayed with me; years of tinkering resulted in The Bloodless Boy and its sequel, The Clockwork Assassins.
The Bloodless Boy uses real characters and real science, or 'experimental philosophy' as it was known. 17th century experiments in blood transfusion and preservation of bodies in a vacuum drag the young Observator of the Royal Society, Harry Hunt, (who was Robert Hooke's assistant), into the hysteria of the Popish Plot. It pits him against Titus Oates, Lord Shaftesbury, and a sinister villain called Lefèvre.
The sequel to The Bloodless Boy, The Clockwork Assassins, finds Harry in the Fens of Norfolk, and then in Paris, where he becomes embroiled in the machinations of the 'Affair des Poisons'. He uncovers a plot to kill Queen Catherine, and so has to race back to London - with many obstacles in his way.
Both books are to be published by Melville House Publishing. The new edition of The Bloodless Boy is due out in November 2021.
The self-published versions are no longer available, unless you can find them second-hand.
I'm represented by Gaia Banks at Sheil Land Associates literary agency. Many thanks are due to Gaia, who has championed both books with an astonishing energy and attention to detail.
I'm married, with three splendid children and a very lovely wife, and I live in the Brecon Beacons.
Follow me on Twitter as @robjlloyd.
On Facebook, I'm Robert J Lloyd.
I would love to hear from you if you've read all - or part - of the books. Reviews would be very welcome, too!
At school I wanted to be an artist, thinking I was going to be the next great English painter. I did a BA degree in Fine Art, in Coventry, but moved more into art theory, ideas, and writing.
It was during my study for an MA in the History of Ideas, in Newcastle, that I discovered Robert Hooke's Diary, detailing his work as Curator of Experiments of the Royal Society, and as architect of the new London, after the Fire. The ideas and characters that I came across stayed with me; years of tinkering resulted in The Bloodless Boy and its sequel, The Clockwork Assassins.
The Bloodless Boy uses real characters and real science, or 'experimental philosophy' as it was known. 17th century experiments in blood transfusion and preservation of bodies in a vacuum drag the young Observator of the Royal Society, Harry Hunt, (who was Robert Hooke's assistant), into the hysteria of the Popish Plot. It pits him against Titus Oates, Lord Shaftesbury, and a sinister villain called Lefèvre.
The sequel to The Bloodless Boy, The Clockwork Assassins, finds Harry in the Fens of Norfolk, and then in Paris, where he becomes embroiled in the machinations of the 'Affair des Poisons'. He uncovers a plot to kill Queen Catherine, and so has to race back to London - with many obstacles in his way.
Both books are to be published by Melville House Publishing. The new edition of The Bloodless Boy is due out in November 2021.
The self-published versions are no longer available, unless you can find them second-hand.
I'm represented by Gaia Banks at Sheil Land Associates literary agency. Many thanks are due to Gaia, who has championed both books with an astonishing energy and attention to detail.
I'm married, with three splendid children and a very lovely wife, and I live in the Brecon Beacons.
Follow me on Twitter as @robjlloyd.
On Facebook, I'm Robert J Lloyd.
I would love to hear from you if you've read all - or part - of the books. Reviews would be very welcome, too!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 67 reviews
July 16, 2023
This is the second novel in the Hunt & Hooke series, but it can be read as a standalone book.
Harry Hunt has great ambitions when it comes to the Royal Society of Gresham College. He wishes to be its highly esteemed curator, just like his mentor, Robert Hooke. However, there are other Fellows who are also eyeing up that job, including Harry’s rival, Denis Papin.
When Hunt’s experiment fails and he’s mocked by his Fellows, he feels hurt and dejected. He accepts a job from Sir Jonas Moore investigating the death of a “small skeleton” found in Norfolk.
Accompanied by his friend, Colonel Fields, who’s familiar with the countryside they are travelling to, the duo discover that the body is of Jeffrey Hudson’s, who was the Queen’s dwarf.
However, there is a problem as someone else has been calling himself “Jeffrey Hudson” for a number of years. This man is presumed to be a French spy, who has now returned to France.
Hunt and Fields travel to Paris, where they encounter peril, treachery, and even a flying man. Here they hear of a plot to kill the English Catholic Queen and her peers…
I loved this book! I really enjoyed The Bloodless Boy and I was excited to read this one.
I can honestly say that this book (in my opinion) is even better than the previous one. Don’t get me wrong, The Bloodless Boy was excellent and I couldn’t fault it. I just feel that in The Poison Machine there was far more deception and a couple of unexpected plot twists, which I didn’t see coming!
I liked that Harry wanted to become his own man and show Hooke that he could navigate things by himself when in France. I feel that this adventure strengthened Hunt’s character and gave him a much needed confidence boost.
I cannot wait for the next book in the series.
Harry Hunt has great ambitions when it comes to the Royal Society of Gresham College. He wishes to be its highly esteemed curator, just like his mentor, Robert Hooke. However, there are other Fellows who are also eyeing up that job, including Harry’s rival, Denis Papin.
When Hunt’s experiment fails and he’s mocked by his Fellows, he feels hurt and dejected. He accepts a job from Sir Jonas Moore investigating the death of a “small skeleton” found in Norfolk.
Accompanied by his friend, Colonel Fields, who’s familiar with the countryside they are travelling to, the duo discover that the body is of Jeffrey Hudson’s, who was the Queen’s dwarf.
However, there is a problem as someone else has been calling himself “Jeffrey Hudson” for a number of years. This man is presumed to be a French spy, who has now returned to France.
Hunt and Fields travel to Paris, where they encounter peril, treachery, and even a flying man. Here they hear of a plot to kill the English Catholic Queen and her peers…
I loved this book! I really enjoyed The Bloodless Boy and I was excited to read this one.
I can honestly say that this book (in my opinion) is even better than the previous one. Don’t get me wrong, The Bloodless Boy was excellent and I couldn’t fault it. I just feel that in The Poison Machine there was far more deception and a couple of unexpected plot twists, which I didn’t see coming!
I liked that Harry wanted to become his own man and show Hooke that he could navigate things by himself when in France. I feel that this adventure strengthened Hunt’s character and gave him a much needed confidence boost.
I cannot wait for the next book in the series.
November 2, 2022
Thank you Netgalley for the audio copy in exchange for a honest review. Set in the 17th century Harry Hunt is off to Paris on to foil a plot to kill the Queen of England. Full of adventure and drama. Will Harry be able to save the Queen?
February 6, 2017
It's relief to discover a book series at its beginning with the prospect that the talented author will continue to enthral his readers for a long time to come. I thoroughly enjoyed "The Bloodless Boy" and in this sequel Robert J Lloyd demonstrates an increased maturity, more rounded characterisation and confidence in his "voice" as an accomplished author. Having previously been acquainted with Jeffrey Hudson's larger than life career, it was interesting to read more details of his life (both real & imagined!). The main characters are adeptly fleshed out, the action moves swiftly and convincingly from the rarefied environment of the Royal Society to the atmospheric fens and the dark and light sides of Paris are realistically (and in some cases quite chillingly) portrayed. If you like books that contain descriptive historical detail, humour, atmosphere, flirtation, action and more twists than a Curly Wurly then this is for you...tell your friends....tell your enemies...(they might be the same people)...but read it.
November 24, 2022
The Poison Machine is a follow-up to Robert J. Lloyd's The Bloodless Boy. Like the first volume in the series, it's set during the English restoration. The Poison Machine, however, moves from London—the scene of the previous volume—to the fens where a skeletonized corpse has been uncovered, and then to Paris.
The skeleton is that of Captain Jeffrey Hudson, a little person. But Hudson, or at least someone claiming to be him, but who is about a foot taller than Hudson was, has been living in the area since being freed from slavers. This Hudson explains his growth on the diet of fish he consumed in Africa.
The trip to Paris, an attempt to track down the faux Hudson, is undertaken by Harry Hunt, assistant to the scientist Robert Hook and Hunt's long-time friend Col. Fields, who fought on the side of Parliament in the Civil War. The two aren't just looking for Hudson. They're now looking for an enormous diamond that the first, shorter Hudson may have had on his person when he was killed. There may also be a plot afoot to kill the English queen and other well-known Catholics and poisoning seems to be epidemic in France. Once Hunt and Field arrive in Paris, all sorts of things begin to happen. I won't relate those here because, dear reader, the real fun is in the reading.
I had my doubts about The Poison Machine in the beginning. It took almost half to book for the plot to build up enough that I reached the just-one-more-chapter state of engagement. But said point was reached, and I found myself racing through the book's second half. If you enjoy historical mysteries enough to put up with an initial slow burn, you'll have no trouble enjoying this title.
The Poison Machine lacked two elements that I had particularly enjoyed in The Bloodless Boy. First, Hooke's role in this title is limited, and I missed having a chance to spend time with Hooke as imagined by Lloyd. Second, while The Poison Machine was built around political intrigues of the time, it's presentation of those politics wasn't particularly nuanced. I'm hoping that subsequent volumes will give readers more of Hooke and of period politics.
Even with these minor complaints, I still find Hunt and Hooke a very promising historical mystery series and am eager for the release of volume three (I'm assuming there will be one). The plot twists are significant, and, as I noted above, one becomes more and more engaged as the title progresses.
I received a free electronic review copy of this title from the publisher; the opinions are my own.
The skeleton is that of Captain Jeffrey Hudson, a little person. But Hudson, or at least someone claiming to be him, but who is about a foot taller than Hudson was, has been living in the area since being freed from slavers. This Hudson explains his growth on the diet of fish he consumed in Africa.
The trip to Paris, an attempt to track down the faux Hudson, is undertaken by Harry Hunt, assistant to the scientist Robert Hook and Hunt's long-time friend Col. Fields, who fought on the side of Parliament in the Civil War. The two aren't just looking for Hudson. They're now looking for an enormous diamond that the first, shorter Hudson may have had on his person when he was killed. There may also be a plot afoot to kill the English queen and other well-known Catholics and poisoning seems to be epidemic in France. Once Hunt and Field arrive in Paris, all sorts of things begin to happen. I won't relate those here because, dear reader, the real fun is in the reading.
I had my doubts about The Poison Machine in the beginning. It took almost half to book for the plot to build up enough that I reached the just-one-more-chapter state of engagement. But said point was reached, and I found myself racing through the book's second half. If you enjoy historical mysteries enough to put up with an initial slow burn, you'll have no trouble enjoying this title.
The Poison Machine lacked two elements that I had particularly enjoyed in The Bloodless Boy. First, Hooke's role in this title is limited, and I missed having a chance to spend time with Hooke as imagined by Lloyd. Second, while The Poison Machine was built around political intrigues of the time, it's presentation of those politics wasn't particularly nuanced. I'm hoping that subsequent volumes will give readers more of Hooke and of period politics.
Even with these minor complaints, I still find Hunt and Hooke a very promising historical mystery series and am eager for the release of volume three (I'm assuming there will be one). The plot twists are significant, and, as I noted above, one becomes more and more engaged as the title progresses.
I received a free electronic review copy of this title from the publisher; the opinions are my own.
January 17, 2017
Five Stars Do Not Do This Novel Justice
A couple years back I read The Bloodless Boy and despaired that there were no other books by Robert J. Lloyd. In following years I kept searching his name for new publications only to be repeatedly disappointed--until this week! And there he was and a new book. I immediately put all other readings on the back burner and began devouring The Clockwork Assassins and sadly ran out of book. Maybe it's me, but I dearly love fiction that is woven into historical settings, particularly those in which science meets religion and superstition; hence, I especially appreciate the writings of Ian Pears and Arturo Perez-Reverte. Lloyd, however, is in there with the best of them. He doesn't shy away from the great historical scientists: we visit Sir Isaac Newton in his lodging with its cat/kitten door; Denis Papin is dressed in a Jesuit cassock; and Robert Hooke's niece will one day marry the main character, Henry Hunt, in a novel down the road. I do hope Lloyd resists time wasting book tours and tv interviews and writes a dozen more before lying back and savoring fame.
A couple years back I read The Bloodless Boy and despaired that there were no other books by Robert J. Lloyd. In following years I kept searching his name for new publications only to be repeatedly disappointed--until this week! And there he was and a new book. I immediately put all other readings on the back burner and began devouring The Clockwork Assassins and sadly ran out of book. Maybe it's me, but I dearly love fiction that is woven into historical settings, particularly those in which science meets religion and superstition; hence, I especially appreciate the writings of Ian Pears and Arturo Perez-Reverte. Lloyd, however, is in there with the best of them. He doesn't shy away from the great historical scientists: we visit Sir Isaac Newton in his lodging with its cat/kitten door; Denis Papin is dressed in a Jesuit cassock; and Robert Hooke's niece will one day marry the main character, Henry Hunt, in a novel down the road. I do hope Lloyd resists time wasting book tours and tv interviews and writes a dozen more before lying back and savoring fame.
July 18, 2023
“The Poison Machine” is the second in the ‘Hunt and Hooke’ series, set in 17th century ‘Restoration London’, during a scientific revolution. This historical crime thriller is an intelligent, extremely well researched and meticulously written novel. The author Robert J Loyd deserves high praise indeed for incorporating genuine real life scientists and academics into a fictional story, which is both worded and portrayed as befits the political late 17th century, even down to the indignation of the catholic families and their vandalised shops.
The story commences with an intriguing and very atmospheric prologue, setting the scene on a dark London night, as three Frenchmen secretly travel along the Thames avoiding detection. The imagined descriptions of the river, the varying ships and the Frenchmen’s paranoia was just perfect and if a tv series was to made based on these books, I would expect this initial scene to be portrayed exactly as it appeared in my mind.
I loved reading about the experiments mentioned at the Royal Society (for example the invention of the air gun) and then seeing the excitement of the Fellows witnessing these for the first time. The ‘beheading’ scene, which followed on from a thread in the previous book, was very grisly and didn’t hold back on the descriptive details and the ensuing enjoyment from the crowd at these events.
I enjoyed the previous novel “The Bloodless Boy”, so it was a given that I would be reading this follow up novel. I would however recommend reading as many chapters in a few a sittings as possible, rather than dipping into it over a few weeks. You do need to keep the knowledge of who’s who and the plot line in your head whilst reading but there is a helpful list of characters at the beginning of the story which does come in handy as a reminder, even if you’re familiar with the history of the time.
#ThePoisonMachine - ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
The story commences with an intriguing and very atmospheric prologue, setting the scene on a dark London night, as three Frenchmen secretly travel along the Thames avoiding detection. The imagined descriptions of the river, the varying ships and the Frenchmen’s paranoia was just perfect and if a tv series was to made based on these books, I would expect this initial scene to be portrayed exactly as it appeared in my mind.
I loved reading about the experiments mentioned at the Royal Society (for example the invention of the air gun) and then seeing the excitement of the Fellows witnessing these for the first time. The ‘beheading’ scene, which followed on from a thread in the previous book, was very grisly and didn’t hold back on the descriptive details and the ensuing enjoyment from the crowd at these events.
I enjoyed the previous novel “The Bloodless Boy”, so it was a given that I would be reading this follow up novel. I would however recommend reading as many chapters in a few a sittings as possible, rather than dipping into it over a few weeks. You do need to keep the knowledge of who’s who and the plot line in your head whilst reading but there is a helpful list of characters at the beginning of the story which does come in handy as a reminder, even if you’re familiar with the history of the time.
#ThePoisonMachine - ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
November 16, 2022
Another thoroughly enjoyable historical mystery from Lloyd.
May 11, 2024
Llyod has a supreme ability to make you feel like you understand his characters and then completely pulling the rug out from under you. It’s a taken that makes for an extremely intriguing mystery novel that is full of twists and turns in the best of ways.
February 1, 2017
I was really looking forward to reading this and it didn't disappoint. The author seems to have found confidence to build on his earlier characters and push their boundaries. I loved the way Harry is tortured about his longing for Grace, a real sense of will they or won't they admit their feelings. Add this into a really imaginative story about the religious intrigue of those times. I think Mr Lloyd is to be congratulated on what is really a cracking good thriller. Can't wait for the next instalment.
October 27, 2022
My Rating ~ 4.5*
The Poison Machine by Robert J. Lloyd published October 25th with Melville House and is described as ‘a nail-biting and brilliantly imagined historical thriller that will delight readers of its critically acclaimed predecessor The Bloodless Boy.' While The Poison Machine is a sequel to The Bloodless Boy, it can easily be read as a stand-alone novel.
‘Packed with historical detail, the book contains a cast of real-life characters, including Christopher Wren, Isaac Newton, King Charles II and his wife, Queen Catherine of Braganza. It continues the adventures of scientist-turned detectives, Harry Hunt and Robert Hooke, exploring early scientific Enlightenment and the ideas and conspiracies of the time’ – Melville House
London 1679 is the setting for The Poison Machine. Harry Hunt is trying to make a positive impression in front of his cohorts at the Royal Society of London for the Improving of Natural Knowledge. He has ambition to succeed his mentor Robert Hooke as the Curator of Experiments with a planned demonstration that would show off his capabilities and strengths but alas all does not go to plan. After a failed experiment, Hunt is embarrassed, ashamed and licking his wounds when a distracting opportunity comes his way. He is offered a lucrative position as an investigator with the Board of Ordnance which requires him to travel to the Fens where a body has been uncovered.
Hunt is not necessarily happy with the decision he has made, but there is a constant feeling of inadequacy that accompanies him everywhere and this job with the Board of Ordnance might just be what he needs to shake his life up a little. An old acquaintance, Colonel Michael Fields accompanies Hunt on this arduous journey, with the very unexpected company of Grace Hooke (Robert Hooke’s niece). On arrival in Norfolk, it is confirmed that the body is that of Captain Jeffrey Hudson, the famed dwarf companion of Queen Henrietta Maria, wife of King Charles I. Hudson had been banished from the Queen’s court after a time for a misdemeanour but nobody had been aware of his death until now. The plot thickens as it is additionally discovered that an imposter has been living as Hudson but has now disappeared. And, if that wasn’t enough there is also word of a diamond that has been missing for many years.
After witnessing Hudson’s body and confirming his identity, Hunt sets off from The Fens on an incredible journey that takes him to Paris, a city as rife with spies and plots as the one he left behind. There are multiple obstacles put in his way but Harry Hunt is a tenacious individual, unwilling to let anything deter him from his final goal.
At that time England, following the Restoration of the monarchy, was under the rule of King Charles II and his wife, Queen Catherine of Braganza. It was a period of great upheaval, where mistrust was very much rife. Queen Catherine was a Catholic who married King Charles II in 1662 as part of an alliance between England and Portugal. By no means a favourite, due to her religious beliefs, she was seen by some as relatively inconsequential, but as Hunt discovers, a covert operation is being undertaken to poison the Queen, alongside many of her Catholic cohorts, at a not-to-distant gathering in London.
With Hunt caught up in very unforeseen circumstances in Paris, the clock is ticking. He needs to get news to London as fast as possible before the nightmarish outcome transpires and a Queen is murdered. Will Hunt be able to stop these devious assassins before it’s too late?
What transpires is an exciting and, at times, swashbuckling, tale of suspense and intrigue. As Hunt gets into more complex situations, the plot thickens and the intensity heightens. In my review of The Bloodless Boy I said that ‘skulduggery and subterfuge, with a dash of science and adventure, all come together to create a seriously cracking and compulsive read' and the same applies to The Poison Machine. Both novels are steeped in history, providing wonderful insights to that period and it is a real treat to see real-life characters featured in chapters. This addition of factual people adds an extra layer of authenticity to the story and it is clear that Robert J. Lloyd has done some incredible research to bring this novel to fruition.
The Poison Machine is an excellent addition to this series bringing Hunt out of the lab and developing his personality more as an individual. It is more focused on Hunt, whereas The Bloodless Boy was a combination of both Hooke and Hunt, providing the reader with an exciting tale but also highlighting fascinating insights into the fundamentals of modern science, alongside an intriguing investigation.
Stimulating, riveting and highly entertaining, The Poison Machine is another skilled and thrilling read from this fascinating of writers. Highly recommended!
The Poison Machine by Robert J. Lloyd published October 25th with Melville House and is described as ‘a nail-biting and brilliantly imagined historical thriller that will delight readers of its critically acclaimed predecessor The Bloodless Boy.' While The Poison Machine is a sequel to The Bloodless Boy, it can easily be read as a stand-alone novel.
‘Packed with historical detail, the book contains a cast of real-life characters, including Christopher Wren, Isaac Newton, King Charles II and his wife, Queen Catherine of Braganza. It continues the adventures of scientist-turned detectives, Harry Hunt and Robert Hooke, exploring early scientific Enlightenment and the ideas and conspiracies of the time’ – Melville House
London 1679 is the setting for The Poison Machine. Harry Hunt is trying to make a positive impression in front of his cohorts at the Royal Society of London for the Improving of Natural Knowledge. He has ambition to succeed his mentor Robert Hooke as the Curator of Experiments with a planned demonstration that would show off his capabilities and strengths but alas all does not go to plan. After a failed experiment, Hunt is embarrassed, ashamed and licking his wounds when a distracting opportunity comes his way. He is offered a lucrative position as an investigator with the Board of Ordnance which requires him to travel to the Fens where a body has been uncovered.
Hunt is not necessarily happy with the decision he has made, but there is a constant feeling of inadequacy that accompanies him everywhere and this job with the Board of Ordnance might just be what he needs to shake his life up a little. An old acquaintance, Colonel Michael Fields accompanies Hunt on this arduous journey, with the very unexpected company of Grace Hooke (Robert Hooke’s niece). On arrival in Norfolk, it is confirmed that the body is that of Captain Jeffrey Hudson, the famed dwarf companion of Queen Henrietta Maria, wife of King Charles I. Hudson had been banished from the Queen’s court after a time for a misdemeanour but nobody had been aware of his death until now. The plot thickens as it is additionally discovered that an imposter has been living as Hudson but has now disappeared. And, if that wasn’t enough there is also word of a diamond that has been missing for many years.
After witnessing Hudson’s body and confirming his identity, Hunt sets off from The Fens on an incredible journey that takes him to Paris, a city as rife with spies and plots as the one he left behind. There are multiple obstacles put in his way but Harry Hunt is a tenacious individual, unwilling to let anything deter him from his final goal.
At that time England, following the Restoration of the monarchy, was under the rule of King Charles II and his wife, Queen Catherine of Braganza. It was a period of great upheaval, where mistrust was very much rife. Queen Catherine was a Catholic who married King Charles II in 1662 as part of an alliance between England and Portugal. By no means a favourite, due to her religious beliefs, she was seen by some as relatively inconsequential, but as Hunt discovers, a covert operation is being undertaken to poison the Queen, alongside many of her Catholic cohorts, at a not-to-distant gathering in London.
With Hunt caught up in very unforeseen circumstances in Paris, the clock is ticking. He needs to get news to London as fast as possible before the nightmarish outcome transpires and a Queen is murdered. Will Hunt be able to stop these devious assassins before it’s too late?
What transpires is an exciting and, at times, swashbuckling, tale of suspense and intrigue. As Hunt gets into more complex situations, the plot thickens and the intensity heightens. In my review of The Bloodless Boy I said that ‘skulduggery and subterfuge, with a dash of science and adventure, all come together to create a seriously cracking and compulsive read' and the same applies to The Poison Machine. Both novels are steeped in history, providing wonderful insights to that period and it is a real treat to see real-life characters featured in chapters. This addition of factual people adds an extra layer of authenticity to the story and it is clear that Robert J. Lloyd has done some incredible research to bring this novel to fruition.
The Poison Machine is an excellent addition to this series bringing Hunt out of the lab and developing his personality more as an individual. It is more focused on Hunt, whereas The Bloodless Boy was a combination of both Hooke and Hunt, providing the reader with an exciting tale but also highlighting fascinating insights into the fundamentals of modern science, alongside an intriguing investigation.
Stimulating, riveting and highly entertaining, The Poison Machine is another skilled and thrilling read from this fascinating of writers. Highly recommended!
November 10, 2022
London, 1679. A year has passed since Hooke and Hunt managed to foil a deadly plot to murder Charles II. Harry Hunt is still trying to establish himself as a rising star at the Royal Society, but is frustrated by his lack of success. An uncomfortable distance has grown up between him and his former mentor Robert Hooke, and all it takes is one more failed experiment to cause Harry give up his place at the Society and reconsider his future as a scientist.
As fate would have it, an alternative presents itself in a lucrative offer from Sir Jonas Moore, the King's Surveyor-General of the Board of Ordnance, for Harry to aid him with a strange investigation. During the draining of the Norfolk fenland a remarkable skeleton has been found, and Sir Jonas needs Harry's rare talents to help identify the body. In the company of his friend Colonel Fields, an old soldier for Parliament, and Hooke's niece, Grace (who has invited herself along in the guise of a young man), Harry confirms Sir Jonas' suspicions that this appears to be the body of dwarf Captain Jeffrey Hudson, once famously given to Queen Henrietta Maria in a pie - and there has obviously been foul play involved in his demise.
This is rather odd, as a man claiming to be Captain Jeffrey Hudson has been living in a village near-by for some years. Clearly this dwarf is an imposter, and it seems that the discovery of the body has caused him to flee. Stories abound of the real Hudson's exploits, including his part in the disappearance of a very large diamond that has never been found. Could this imposter be in possession of the precious jewel? Could he be a spy? Sir Jonas orders Harry to find him and get him to reveal all he knows.
Harry is on the trail of dark deeds once more, and his findings lead him and Colonel Fields to the dangerous environs of Paris, where they uncover a dastardly plot to kill the current Queen of England, Catherine of Bragança, and everyone attending her upcoming gathering of Catholics in London. Can Harry foil another complex assassination attempt - this time one that involves deadly poison?
I thoroughly enjoyed the first part of this historical thriller series The Bloodless Boy, which introduced us to the unlikely crime busting pairing of Royal Society members Robert Hooke and his assistant Harry Hunt. Their first adventure was a twisty mystery around the body of a young boy, drained of his blood, that led to the discovery of a plot to kill Charles II.
Robert J. Lloyd takes us back to Restoration England to craft an even more intricately devious, literary thriller in this follow-up tale The Poison Machine, which finds Harry setting off without his former mentor to get to grips with another historical mystery cleverly based around real events. As in The Bloodless Boy, this is a setting filled with intrigue and distrust, as the battle lines based on religious and political ideology continue to cast a long shadow in the wake of civil war, but unlike the first book this burgeons delightfully out of a London setting into a story that has a much wider scope, taking in the eerie strangeness of the Norfolk marshlands, and the perilous streets of Paris where backstabbing plots also abound.
This new murder mystery comes with a different feel. Athough it begins with a revisit to the fierce competition between the men who are keen to make names for themselves in the world of science, it becomes much more of a rip-roaring historical escapade in double-quick time, with infamous dwarves, duplicitous duchesses, glittering baubles, murder and mayhem, all fuelled by the lingering religious hatred that hangs over the affairs of men and women - whether they be highborn or low. The pace ramps up notch by notch as the whispers of an audacious plot to poison all present at the Queen's upcoming Catholic gathering are revealed, and Harry has to somehow free himself from a very sticky situation in Paris and return to London (hopefully) in the nick of time. Throw in treachery, greed, many misunderstandings, long-held secrets, and the part played by that old green-eyed monster, jealousy, and you have the making of a very exciting tale indeed.
I loved the whole page-turner of a story from beginning to end, especially every lovely little echo of Parisian intrigue that whispered of classic Dumas, with the added twist of a delicious injection of science that looks very much towards the future. What a fun combination! I cannot wait to see what Lloyd comes up with next!
As fate would have it, an alternative presents itself in a lucrative offer from Sir Jonas Moore, the King's Surveyor-General of the Board of Ordnance, for Harry to aid him with a strange investigation. During the draining of the Norfolk fenland a remarkable skeleton has been found, and Sir Jonas needs Harry's rare talents to help identify the body. In the company of his friend Colonel Fields, an old soldier for Parliament, and Hooke's niece, Grace (who has invited herself along in the guise of a young man), Harry confirms Sir Jonas' suspicions that this appears to be the body of dwarf Captain Jeffrey Hudson, once famously given to Queen Henrietta Maria in a pie - and there has obviously been foul play involved in his demise.
This is rather odd, as a man claiming to be Captain Jeffrey Hudson has been living in a village near-by for some years. Clearly this dwarf is an imposter, and it seems that the discovery of the body has caused him to flee. Stories abound of the real Hudson's exploits, including his part in the disappearance of a very large diamond that has never been found. Could this imposter be in possession of the precious jewel? Could he be a spy? Sir Jonas orders Harry to find him and get him to reveal all he knows.
Harry is on the trail of dark deeds once more, and his findings lead him and Colonel Fields to the dangerous environs of Paris, where they uncover a dastardly plot to kill the current Queen of England, Catherine of Bragança, and everyone attending her upcoming gathering of Catholics in London. Can Harry foil another complex assassination attempt - this time one that involves deadly poison?
I thoroughly enjoyed the first part of this historical thriller series The Bloodless Boy, which introduced us to the unlikely crime busting pairing of Royal Society members Robert Hooke and his assistant Harry Hunt. Their first adventure was a twisty mystery around the body of a young boy, drained of his blood, that led to the discovery of a plot to kill Charles II.
Robert J. Lloyd takes us back to Restoration England to craft an even more intricately devious, literary thriller in this follow-up tale The Poison Machine, which finds Harry setting off without his former mentor to get to grips with another historical mystery cleverly based around real events. As in The Bloodless Boy, this is a setting filled with intrigue and distrust, as the battle lines based on religious and political ideology continue to cast a long shadow in the wake of civil war, but unlike the first book this burgeons delightfully out of a London setting into a story that has a much wider scope, taking in the eerie strangeness of the Norfolk marshlands, and the perilous streets of Paris where backstabbing plots also abound.
This new murder mystery comes with a different feel. Athough it begins with a revisit to the fierce competition between the men who are keen to make names for themselves in the world of science, it becomes much more of a rip-roaring historical escapade in double-quick time, with infamous dwarves, duplicitous duchesses, glittering baubles, murder and mayhem, all fuelled by the lingering religious hatred that hangs over the affairs of men and women - whether they be highborn or low. The pace ramps up notch by notch as the whispers of an audacious plot to poison all present at the Queen's upcoming Catholic gathering are revealed, and Harry has to somehow free himself from a very sticky situation in Paris and return to London (hopefully) in the nick of time. Throw in treachery, greed, many misunderstandings, long-held secrets, and the part played by that old green-eyed monster, jealousy, and you have the making of a very exciting tale indeed.
I loved the whole page-turner of a story from beginning to end, especially every lovely little echo of Parisian intrigue that whispered of classic Dumas, with the added twist of a delicious injection of science that looks very much towards the future. What a fun combination! I cannot wait to see what Lloyd comes up with next!
October 30, 2022
Harry Hunt and Robert Hooke are back in The Poison Machine, Robert J Lloyd’s sequel to last year’s The Bloodless Boy.
Although a year has passed since the sensational events of The Bloodless Boy, Londoners still live in fear of Catholic plots. For Harry Hunt, no longer in the employ of the Royal Society and estranged from his friend and mentor Robert Hooke, the chance to investigate a skeleton found in Norfolk’s windswept fenland offers the opportunity to leave the events of the previous year behind him – and to get himself into the good graces of Sir Jonas Moore, the King’s Surveyor-General of the Board of Ordnance.
However confirmation that the body is that of the famous Captain Jeffrey Hudson – who accompanied Queen Henrietta Maria to France in order to help her fund her husband’s army – serves only to inflame tensions. Hudson, after all, isn’t supposed to be dead. Another man has lived as him since his murder, spying on the court. When the imposter vanishes, taking vital information with him, Hunt and his friends are tasked with tracking him down.
Their search will soon lead them to a Paris beset by conspiracy and intrigue. And, in the salons and libraries of the great and the good, Hunt will soon be chasing a terrible plot being planned against the Queen of England herself.
As with last year’s The Bloodless Boy, The Poison Machine brings the political and religious tensions of the late seventeenth century vividly to life on the page. Whether walking the darkened streets of London’s old city, or strolling into a fashionable Parisian salon, Robert J Lloyd has impressively captured the sights, sounds, and atmosphere of the seventeenth-century world.
As with the first book in the series, The Poison Machine effortlessly blends together fact and fiction, combining real events and real people with fictionalised and imagined scenarios, with Lloyd using his knowledge of Robert Hooke’s diary, the paper of the Royal Society, and his knowledge of the period (gained whilst studying for an MA in the History of Ideas) to create a detailed, complex, and evolving world that draws the reader in to the period and its many tensions. Those with knowledge of the period will be delighted by cameos from some illustrious figures, including Sir Issac Newton and Denis Papin, as well as references to the key scientific and philosophical debates of the period.
This does mean that the novel features a lot of characters – and some fairly complex political and religious plotting – however, having read The Bloodless Boy, I found distinguishing who’s who to be much easier, as there are a number of returning characters from that novel. Whilst The Poison Machine is a standalone story, the continuance of plot strands introduced in the first novel – and the development of characters first met in The Bloodless Boy – mean that I would recommend reading the series in order. The Bloodless Boy is a similarly involved read, so it’s definitely worth checking out if you like the sound of this novel (you can read my full review of it here)!
On the subject of evolution, The Poison Machine also evidences Lloyd’s own evolution as a writer. Whilst The Bloodless Boy was an impressively detailed debut, the characterisation and plotting of its sequel show a greater confidence and familiarity with the world and its characters. Moving swiftly from London’s bustling streets to the Norfolk fens and the libraries of Paris, the novel tells its tale with verve and pace, keeping the pages turning whilst also relishing in the particularised detail of character and setting.
With its detailed historical setting, intricate plotting, and developing characters, The Poison Machine is a worthy successor that is sure to delight fans of The Bloodless Boy, and establishes Lloyd’s Hunt & Hooke series as a must-read for all historical fiction aficionados. Anyone who enjoyed Frances Quinn’s The Smallest Man will also find The Poison Machine‘s take on the life and times of Jeffrey Hudson extremely interesting.
NB: This review also appears on my blog at https://theshelfofunreadbooks.wordpre... as part of the blog tour for the book. My thanks go to the publisher for providing a copy of the book in return for an honest and unbiased review.
Although a year has passed since the sensational events of The Bloodless Boy, Londoners still live in fear of Catholic plots. For Harry Hunt, no longer in the employ of the Royal Society and estranged from his friend and mentor Robert Hooke, the chance to investigate a skeleton found in Norfolk’s windswept fenland offers the opportunity to leave the events of the previous year behind him – and to get himself into the good graces of Sir Jonas Moore, the King’s Surveyor-General of the Board of Ordnance.
However confirmation that the body is that of the famous Captain Jeffrey Hudson – who accompanied Queen Henrietta Maria to France in order to help her fund her husband’s army – serves only to inflame tensions. Hudson, after all, isn’t supposed to be dead. Another man has lived as him since his murder, spying on the court. When the imposter vanishes, taking vital information with him, Hunt and his friends are tasked with tracking him down.
Their search will soon lead them to a Paris beset by conspiracy and intrigue. And, in the salons and libraries of the great and the good, Hunt will soon be chasing a terrible plot being planned against the Queen of England herself.
As with last year’s The Bloodless Boy, The Poison Machine brings the political and religious tensions of the late seventeenth century vividly to life on the page. Whether walking the darkened streets of London’s old city, or strolling into a fashionable Parisian salon, Robert J Lloyd has impressively captured the sights, sounds, and atmosphere of the seventeenth-century world.
As with the first book in the series, The Poison Machine effortlessly blends together fact and fiction, combining real events and real people with fictionalised and imagined scenarios, with Lloyd using his knowledge of Robert Hooke’s diary, the paper of the Royal Society, and his knowledge of the period (gained whilst studying for an MA in the History of Ideas) to create a detailed, complex, and evolving world that draws the reader in to the period and its many tensions. Those with knowledge of the period will be delighted by cameos from some illustrious figures, including Sir Issac Newton and Denis Papin, as well as references to the key scientific and philosophical debates of the period.
This does mean that the novel features a lot of characters – and some fairly complex political and religious plotting – however, having read The Bloodless Boy, I found distinguishing who’s who to be much easier, as there are a number of returning characters from that novel. Whilst The Poison Machine is a standalone story, the continuance of plot strands introduced in the first novel – and the development of characters first met in The Bloodless Boy – mean that I would recommend reading the series in order. The Bloodless Boy is a similarly involved read, so it’s definitely worth checking out if you like the sound of this novel (you can read my full review of it here)!
On the subject of evolution, The Poison Machine also evidences Lloyd’s own evolution as a writer. Whilst The Bloodless Boy was an impressively detailed debut, the characterisation and plotting of its sequel show a greater confidence and familiarity with the world and its characters. Moving swiftly from London’s bustling streets to the Norfolk fens and the libraries of Paris, the novel tells its tale with verve and pace, keeping the pages turning whilst also relishing in the particularised detail of character and setting.
With its detailed historical setting, intricate plotting, and developing characters, The Poison Machine is a worthy successor that is sure to delight fans of The Bloodless Boy, and establishes Lloyd’s Hunt & Hooke series as a must-read for all historical fiction aficionados. Anyone who enjoyed Frances Quinn’s The Smallest Man will also find The Poison Machine‘s take on the life and times of Jeffrey Hudson extremely interesting.
NB: This review also appears on my blog at https://theshelfofunreadbooks.wordpre... as part of the blog tour for the book. My thanks go to the publisher for providing a copy of the book in return for an honest and unbiased review.
October 31, 2022
There’s a new investigation afoot.
I thoroughly enjoyed being back in the company of Harry Hunt and Robert Hooke. Robert J. Lloyd creates such a vivid sense of setting that the writing has a filmic quality providing a truly visual experience for the reader. It means The Poison Machine would make a marvellous television series and although the story is set in the 1600s, it has a Dickensian tone to the style that feels high quality. What I also really appreciated in Robert J. Lloyd’s style is that he often uses direct speech as a counterpoint to detailed description, frequently with witty understatement so that whilst the plot is fast paced and exciting, often with unsavouriness and occasional violence, there’s humour too that provides pitch-perfect balance.
As with The Bloodless Boy, The Poison Machine plot is steeped in meticulously researched historical detail, and blended with imagined events seamlessly to create an authentic and, I felt, occasionally quite a disturbing read. So much of the religious prejudice, the political machinations and the corruption of Harry Hunt and Robert Hooke’s era is all too pertinent to today’s world, making the exciting narrative feel uncomfortably and unnervingly modern as well as historically satisfying. This is a book that entertains but also makes the reader contemplate the world around them.
I think a reader needs to set aside quality time to read The Poison Machine because I kept finding myself thinking, ‘Oh. That’s interesting. I wonder if it/they were real.’ so that I kept pausing to look up references, so fascinating was the story. I also think The Poison Machine would reward several re-reads as I think there are nuances that only become clear once the full story is known.
That said, The Poison Machine is also a fast paced adventure that explores false identity, betrayal, science, religion, relationships, culture and friendships at both an international and personal level so that the reader isn’t always sure just who the heroes and villains really are, making for cracking entertainment. What Robert J. Lloyd does so well when he reveals the truth about a character, is to make the reader aware that there are layers to everyone and a simple definition of good or bad is not easily applied. He explores humanity so effectively. There’s also a salutary consideration of being careful what you wish for mixed in with murder, abduction, diamonds, and machinations of many kinds. The Poison Machine is every bit as intense, heart-thumping and diverting as any James Bond film so enjoyed today.
I confess I was glad of the cast list at the start of the book as there are quite a few names to retain. However, following on from The Bloodless Boy, in The Poison Machine, the main characters become more distinct to the reader. I especially liked the development of Grace because she refuses to conform to the norms of the times. She’s a well balanced combination of strength and vulnerability that makes her feel all the more real. I’m not sure I could endure some of her adventures with quite such equanimity!
The Poison Machine is a cracking historical thriller that I thoroughly enjoyed. Robert J. Lloyd led me on an adventure as eloquently written as any of the literary greats of the past two hundred years. I recommend it most highly.
I thoroughly enjoyed being back in the company of Harry Hunt and Robert Hooke. Robert J. Lloyd creates such a vivid sense of setting that the writing has a filmic quality providing a truly visual experience for the reader. It means The Poison Machine would make a marvellous television series and although the story is set in the 1600s, it has a Dickensian tone to the style that feels high quality. What I also really appreciated in Robert J. Lloyd’s style is that he often uses direct speech as a counterpoint to detailed description, frequently with witty understatement so that whilst the plot is fast paced and exciting, often with unsavouriness and occasional violence, there’s humour too that provides pitch-perfect balance.
As with The Bloodless Boy, The Poison Machine plot is steeped in meticulously researched historical detail, and blended with imagined events seamlessly to create an authentic and, I felt, occasionally quite a disturbing read. So much of the religious prejudice, the political machinations and the corruption of Harry Hunt and Robert Hooke’s era is all too pertinent to today’s world, making the exciting narrative feel uncomfortably and unnervingly modern as well as historically satisfying. This is a book that entertains but also makes the reader contemplate the world around them.
I think a reader needs to set aside quality time to read The Poison Machine because I kept finding myself thinking, ‘Oh. That’s interesting. I wonder if it/they were real.’ so that I kept pausing to look up references, so fascinating was the story. I also think The Poison Machine would reward several re-reads as I think there are nuances that only become clear once the full story is known.
That said, The Poison Machine is also a fast paced adventure that explores false identity, betrayal, science, religion, relationships, culture and friendships at both an international and personal level so that the reader isn’t always sure just who the heroes and villains really are, making for cracking entertainment. What Robert J. Lloyd does so well when he reveals the truth about a character, is to make the reader aware that there are layers to everyone and a simple definition of good or bad is not easily applied. He explores humanity so effectively. There’s also a salutary consideration of being careful what you wish for mixed in with murder, abduction, diamonds, and machinations of many kinds. The Poison Machine is every bit as intense, heart-thumping and diverting as any James Bond film so enjoyed today.
I confess I was glad of the cast list at the start of the book as there are quite a few names to retain. However, following on from The Bloodless Boy, in The Poison Machine, the main characters become more distinct to the reader. I especially liked the development of Grace because she refuses to conform to the norms of the times. She’s a well balanced combination of strength and vulnerability that makes her feel all the more real. I’m not sure I could endure some of her adventures with quite such equanimity!
The Poison Machine is a cracking historical thriller that I thoroughly enjoyed. Robert J. Lloyd led me on an adventure as eloquently written as any of the literary greats of the past two hundred years. I recommend it most highly.
July 13, 2023
‘The Poison Machine’ is the follow up novel from Robert J. Lloyd, featuring Harry Hunt and Robert Hooke, Observator and Curator of Experiments respectively, from The Royal Society. We were introduced to them in ‘The Bloodless Boy’ and now re-enter their lives a year later. Whilst both stories stand alone, reading them in order will enable the reader to feel they’re already comfortable with the setting and lead characters.
Harry is a rising star at The Royal Society but becomes extremely embarrassed when a demonstration goes badly wrong. With his pride already dented, he is further humiliated when his peers later imbibe at a tavern and openly mock him. In a fit of pique and for a significant higher salary, Harry accepts an offer of employment from the Board of Ordnance and is sent to the Norfolk Fens. There he views the remains of Captain Jeffrey Hudson who had become known as ‘the Queen’s Dwarf’ in the court of Charles I and Henrietta Maria. Whilst it was known Captain Hudson had been captured by Barbary pirates after his exile from France, he was apparently alive and happily living in Oakham after a ransom was paid for the release of English captives. Whoever had taken his identity must have realised he was about to be unmasked, so disappeared. It therefore becomes Harry’s task to find him.
Harry then meets a beautiful Italian duchesse who gives him an additional commission for which she promises to pay handsomely. Keen to claim this huge reward as well as tracking down the fake Hudson, Harry travels to Paris in the company of old Parliamentarian soldier,
Colonel Michael Fields.
As with his previous delve into the seventeen century, the author gives us many descriptive passages and much graphic detail. As the layers of the story unfold, Harry finds himself being used as a pawn in a dangerous diplomatic game and is dogged by deceit, conspiracy and
betrayal. We watch as he reflects on his own hubris and in particular, his treatment of Robert Hooke’s niece, Grace.
The author has again shown his skill at blending fact with fiction, particularly in relation to the experiences of Jeffrey Hudson. It is documented that he grew in height during the time he was enslaved despite being an adult when he was captured, so I enjoyed the author’s idea that he was replaced by a taller impostor.
The list of characters was helpful and I found myself referring back several times. The book is written in the third person and the past tense and divided into five parts, each with an epigraph; although I confess the quotations and their relevance were all rather too clever for this reader.
Anyone who enjoyed the first book or is a disciple of Tudor-Stuart fiction won’t be disappointed with this story. After a strong start, I got slightly bogged down but became totally engaged once Harry found himself in an almighty scrape in Paris. I award five well-deserved stars.
Harry is a rising star at The Royal Society but becomes extremely embarrassed when a demonstration goes badly wrong. With his pride already dented, he is further humiliated when his peers later imbibe at a tavern and openly mock him. In a fit of pique and for a significant higher salary, Harry accepts an offer of employment from the Board of Ordnance and is sent to the Norfolk Fens. There he views the remains of Captain Jeffrey Hudson who had become known as ‘the Queen’s Dwarf’ in the court of Charles I and Henrietta Maria. Whilst it was known Captain Hudson had been captured by Barbary pirates after his exile from France, he was apparently alive and happily living in Oakham after a ransom was paid for the release of English captives. Whoever had taken his identity must have realised he was about to be unmasked, so disappeared. It therefore becomes Harry’s task to find him.
Harry then meets a beautiful Italian duchesse who gives him an additional commission for which she promises to pay handsomely. Keen to claim this huge reward as well as tracking down the fake Hudson, Harry travels to Paris in the company of old Parliamentarian soldier,
Colonel Michael Fields.
As with his previous delve into the seventeen century, the author gives us many descriptive passages and much graphic detail. As the layers of the story unfold, Harry finds himself being used as a pawn in a dangerous diplomatic game and is dogged by deceit, conspiracy and
betrayal. We watch as he reflects on his own hubris and in particular, his treatment of Robert Hooke’s niece, Grace.
The author has again shown his skill at blending fact with fiction, particularly in relation to the experiences of Jeffrey Hudson. It is documented that he grew in height during the time he was enslaved despite being an adult when he was captured, so I enjoyed the author’s idea that he was replaced by a taller impostor.
The list of characters was helpful and I found myself referring back several times. The book is written in the third person and the past tense and divided into five parts, each with an epigraph; although I confess the quotations and their relevance were all rather too clever for this reader.
Anyone who enjoyed the first book or is a disciple of Tudor-Stuart fiction won’t be disappointed with this story. After a strong start, I got slightly bogged down but became totally engaged once Harry found himself in an almighty scrape in Paris. I award five well-deserved stars.
November 6, 2022
Time taken to read - in and out over 6 days
Pages - 464
Publisher - Melville House
Source - Arc
Blurb from Goodreads
Harry Hunt must go to Paris in search of a spy and imposter who has knowledge of a plot to kill the Queen of England in this thrilling and addictive sequel to The Bloodless Boy.
1679. A year has passed since the sensational attempt to murder King Charles II. London is still inflamed by fears of Catholic plots. Harry Hunt—estranged from his mentor Robert Hooke and no longer employed by the Royal Society—meets Sir Jonas Moore, the King’s Surveyor-General of the Board of Ordnance, in the remote and windswept marshes of Norfolk. There, workers draining the fenland have uncovered a skeleton.
Accompanied by his friend Colonel Fields, an old soldier for Parliament, and Hooke’s niece, Grace, Harry confirms Sir Jonas’s suspicion: the body is that of a dwarf, Captain Jeffrey Hudson, once famously given to Queen Henrietta Maria in a pie. During the Civil Wars, Hudson accompanied the Queen to France to sell the Royal Jewels to fund her husband’s army. He was sent home in disgrace after shooting a man in a duel.
But nobody knew Hudson was dead. Another man, working as a spy, has lived as him since his murder. Now, this impostor has disappeared, taking vital information with him. Sir Jonas orders Harry to find him.
With the help of clues left in a book, a flying man, and a crossdressing swordswoman, Harry’s search takes him to Paris, another city bedeviled by conspiracies and intrigues. He navigates its salons and libraries, and learns of a terrible plot against the current Queen of England, Catherine of Bragança, and her gathering of Catholics in London. Assassins plan to poison them all.
My Review
This is book two in a series, you can absolutely read this as a standalone however there is backstory and happenings from books one that I think would enrich reading this so go get that book first! We are back with Harry, after an embarrassing encounter he is now away from his mentor and beloved society on a private case. His friend (previous soldier) and the lovely Grace will be accompanying him on their investigation, a body has been discovered, identity in question and a possible imposter to check out. Harry has his hands full and that is before getting onto tracking down a disappearance, there are murderers around, skullduggery and a plot afoot to take down the queen.
So first thing I am going to say historical fiction was never a first pick for me and plots that involve any kind of royalty doesn't tend to be a first pick for me. I read and really enjoyed the first book so was happy to read book two and see what is in store for Harry and co.
Harry is a very human character, he gets embarrassed, he knee jerk reacts but he is basically a decent guy and dedicated to his task(s) but he really makes some questionable decisions.
I do like reading about meetings/mentions of actual historical figures/times and meeting characters with relatable issues. For example Harry, he is a smart bloke but because he gets embarrassed he ends up going off on a different direction/job choice because of the slight he received. Or how he interacts with women and remains completely oblivious of his words/lack of actions when around or in relation to the woman he has long held a torch for.
The book has different story paths and we go along with Harry on his as well as getting insight into the shady bad guys and their dastardly plans, murder/robbery and darker still. King, Queen and all manners of important people are throughout the book as well as a stint in one of the jails, ooft I really felt for the person at that point. The author really paints a vivid picture of the horrific conditions and depending on your imagination, quite boak worthy.
I like Harry although not all his choices and I did feel for him quite a few times throughout the book, Grace too. I love how strong a character she is as often women in those time periods can be very wallflowerish, family/home orientated, focused only on a husband and being seen and not heard type. That isn't Grace nor a few of the females we come across in this one to be honest, I am all for it. 4/5 for me this time and I hope Lloyd is planning of bringing more out. As I said historical isn't my first pick by any stretch of the imagination although I have found myself reading a wee bit more of them as I get older however none of them are quite like these!
Pages - 464
Publisher - Melville House
Source - Arc
Blurb from Goodreads
Harry Hunt must go to Paris in search of a spy and imposter who has knowledge of a plot to kill the Queen of England in this thrilling and addictive sequel to The Bloodless Boy.
1679. A year has passed since the sensational attempt to murder King Charles II. London is still inflamed by fears of Catholic plots. Harry Hunt—estranged from his mentor Robert Hooke and no longer employed by the Royal Society—meets Sir Jonas Moore, the King’s Surveyor-General of the Board of Ordnance, in the remote and windswept marshes of Norfolk. There, workers draining the fenland have uncovered a skeleton.
Accompanied by his friend Colonel Fields, an old soldier for Parliament, and Hooke’s niece, Grace, Harry confirms Sir Jonas’s suspicion: the body is that of a dwarf, Captain Jeffrey Hudson, once famously given to Queen Henrietta Maria in a pie. During the Civil Wars, Hudson accompanied the Queen to France to sell the Royal Jewels to fund her husband’s army. He was sent home in disgrace after shooting a man in a duel.
But nobody knew Hudson was dead. Another man, working as a spy, has lived as him since his murder. Now, this impostor has disappeared, taking vital information with him. Sir Jonas orders Harry to find him.
With the help of clues left in a book, a flying man, and a crossdressing swordswoman, Harry’s search takes him to Paris, another city bedeviled by conspiracies and intrigues. He navigates its salons and libraries, and learns of a terrible plot against the current Queen of England, Catherine of Bragança, and her gathering of Catholics in London. Assassins plan to poison them all.
My Review
This is book two in a series, you can absolutely read this as a standalone however there is backstory and happenings from books one that I think would enrich reading this so go get that book first! We are back with Harry, after an embarrassing encounter he is now away from his mentor and beloved society on a private case. His friend (previous soldier) and the lovely Grace will be accompanying him on their investigation, a body has been discovered, identity in question and a possible imposter to check out. Harry has his hands full and that is before getting onto tracking down a disappearance, there are murderers around, skullduggery and a plot afoot to take down the queen.
So first thing I am going to say historical fiction was never a first pick for me and plots that involve any kind of royalty doesn't tend to be a first pick for me. I read and really enjoyed the first book so was happy to read book two and see what is in store for Harry and co.
Harry is a very human character, he gets embarrassed, he knee jerk reacts but he is basically a decent guy and dedicated to his task(s) but he really makes some questionable decisions.
I do like reading about meetings/mentions of actual historical figures/times and meeting characters with relatable issues. For example Harry, he is a smart bloke but because he gets embarrassed he ends up going off on a different direction/job choice because of the slight he received. Or how he interacts with women and remains completely oblivious of his words/lack of actions when around or in relation to the woman he has long held a torch for.
The book has different story paths and we go along with Harry on his as well as getting insight into the shady bad guys and their dastardly plans, murder/robbery and darker still. King, Queen and all manners of important people are throughout the book as well as a stint in one of the jails, ooft I really felt for the person at that point. The author really paints a vivid picture of the horrific conditions and depending on your imagination, quite boak worthy.
I like Harry although not all his choices and I did feel for him quite a few times throughout the book, Grace too. I love how strong a character she is as often women in those time periods can be very wallflowerish, family/home orientated, focused only on a husband and being seen and not heard type. That isn't Grace nor a few of the females we come across in this one to be honest, I am all for it. 4/5 for me this time and I hope Lloyd is planning of bringing more out. As I said historical isn't my first pick by any stretch of the imagination although I have found myself reading a wee bit more of them as I get older however none of them are quite like these!
October 27, 2022
Last year around this time I read The Bloodless Boy, the debut novel by Robert J Lloyd, and throroughtly enjoyed it, so when Melville House contacted me to part of the blog tour for the next book The Poison Machine I jumped at the chance. The Poison Machine had a lot to live up to as I adored the first book, and it did’t disappoint.
This book is set a year after the events in The Bloodless Boy and the attempt on King Charles II life. Now the focus is on Queen Catherine’s life and that of her fellow Catholics. Its always good to be back with familiar characters, and Robert J Lloyd brings back all the main players from the first book and introduces some fantastic new ones as well. The book is narrated mainly from the point of view of Harry Hunt, who decides to work for Sir Jonus Moore at the Board of Ordnance, in search for the imposter of the previous Queen’s dwarf Captain Jeffrey Hudson. Hunt is trying to break out on his own, away from his mentor Robert Hooke at the Royal Society, after a experiment left him embarrassed. Like many of the characters, Harry os a real hostorical character known for his natural philosophy. Robert J Loyd really brings Harry, and the other characters to life with his prose, and seamlessly bends the factual and fictional characters in to the plot. As well as Harry, there is the return of Grace Hook, Harry’s love interest, Duchesse de Mazarin, a great beauty, Jacob Besnir, a fellow scientist who can fly and three assassins, all add colour and intrigue.
Like with the his previous book, it was the descriptive and sublime prose. With Harry we go from the bustling city of London, to the damp and silent Norfolk Fens and to the glamour and beauty of Paris. Robert J Lloyd’s wonderful writing is a feast of the senses, the sights, smells and sounds drew me in, and I felt I was there with the characters, seeing what they saw, and feeling what they felt, the good and the bad. There is so much historical detail in The Poison Machine, and I love that Robert J Lloyd uses colloquial language which helps anchor the plot in the seventeenth century: the addition of French phrases also tested my A level French.
The Poison Machine is packed full of adventure, political machinations, conspiracy theories, secrets, murder, romance and humour that combine to make this such an intelligent and impressive read. Fascinating characters, both real and fictitious are perfectly drawn and full of life. The plot is fast moving, multi faceted and thrilling, making this book so addictive and hard to put down. As you can probably tell, I was really impressed this book, it was a sublime read that I completely lost my self in. I can’t wait to read the next installment, and see what faces Harry Hunt next.
This book is set a year after the events in The Bloodless Boy and the attempt on King Charles II life. Now the focus is on Queen Catherine’s life and that of her fellow Catholics. Its always good to be back with familiar characters, and Robert J Lloyd brings back all the main players from the first book and introduces some fantastic new ones as well. The book is narrated mainly from the point of view of Harry Hunt, who decides to work for Sir Jonus Moore at the Board of Ordnance, in search for the imposter of the previous Queen’s dwarf Captain Jeffrey Hudson. Hunt is trying to break out on his own, away from his mentor Robert Hooke at the Royal Society, after a experiment left him embarrassed. Like many of the characters, Harry os a real hostorical character known for his natural philosophy. Robert J Loyd really brings Harry, and the other characters to life with his prose, and seamlessly bends the factual and fictional characters in to the plot. As well as Harry, there is the return of Grace Hook, Harry’s love interest, Duchesse de Mazarin, a great beauty, Jacob Besnir, a fellow scientist who can fly and three assassins, all add colour and intrigue.
Like with the his previous book, it was the descriptive and sublime prose. With Harry we go from the bustling city of London, to the damp and silent Norfolk Fens and to the glamour and beauty of Paris. Robert J Lloyd’s wonderful writing is a feast of the senses, the sights, smells and sounds drew me in, and I felt I was there with the characters, seeing what they saw, and feeling what they felt, the good and the bad. There is so much historical detail in The Poison Machine, and I love that Robert J Lloyd uses colloquial language which helps anchor the plot in the seventeenth century: the addition of French phrases also tested my A level French.
The Poison Machine is packed full of adventure, political machinations, conspiracy theories, secrets, murder, romance and humour that combine to make this such an intelligent and impressive read. Fascinating characters, both real and fictitious are perfectly drawn and full of life. The plot is fast moving, multi faceted and thrilling, making this book so addictive and hard to put down. As you can probably tell, I was really impressed this book, it was a sublime read that I completely lost my self in. I can’t wait to read the next installment, and see what faces Harry Hunt next.
November 18, 2022
The story:
Frustrated in his wish to be appointed Curator and embarrassed in front of his fellow natural philosophers, Harry Hunt decides to leave the Royal Society and his mentor Robert Hooke behind, and accept the invitation of Sir Jonas Moore to join the Board of Ordinance. His first task, to investigate a murder…
Accompanied by Colonel Fields, the suitor of Harry’s landlady, and Hooke’s niece Grace, Harry journeys to the Fens to find that the body is that of former royal favourite Jeffrey Hudson, a man less than 2 feet tall who was famously gifted to Queen Henrietta Maria in a pie.
But with his task becoming more complicated at every turn, Harry’s investigations lead him far from London, across the sea to the dangerous streets of Paris in search of a missing man and a famous diamond. But with more than one party taking an interest in his mission, and with impostors, assassins and a threat to the Queen’s life to contend with, will Harry be able to escape this adventure with his life?
My thoughts:
“The Poison Machine” is the second book of author Robert J Lloyd, and the second installment in his Hunt & Hooke series. As with the first book, this is wonderfully written, with historical detail painting a vivid picture of London and Paris in 1679.
Harry Hunt is once again a determined investigator, even though his multiple missions from various important parties (the Board of Ordinance, Lord High Treasurer Thomas Osbourne, Earl of Danbury, and Hortense Mancini, the Duchesse de Mazarin, to name a few!) lead him far from the familiar streets of London and the Royal Society, and put him at odds with Grace Hooke, a determined and independent woman towards whom Harry nurses romantic feelings.
It was enjoyable to re-visit these characters, although this book could equally be enjoyed as a standalone novel. The mixture of fictional and real-life characters and events works well (I particularly enjoyed meeting Sir Isaac Newton, and hearing him explain his invention of the cat flap!). London of the 17th Century is brought to life, and we get to see further afield this time, with Harry’s journey to the Fens (via the “prosperous village of Tottenham”!), and onward to France, where a visit to the infamous Bastille is particularly unpleasant.
Overall, this is a thoroughly enjoyable and wonderfully written historical mystery, with the 17th Century world of the natural philosophers providing the perfect backdrop to political intrigue, murder and assassination plots. Highly recommended to all fans of well-written historical fiction and intricately plotted mysteries!
Frustrated in his wish to be appointed Curator and embarrassed in front of his fellow natural philosophers, Harry Hunt decides to leave the Royal Society and his mentor Robert Hooke behind, and accept the invitation of Sir Jonas Moore to join the Board of Ordinance. His first task, to investigate a murder…
Accompanied by Colonel Fields, the suitor of Harry’s landlady, and Hooke’s niece Grace, Harry journeys to the Fens to find that the body is that of former royal favourite Jeffrey Hudson, a man less than 2 feet tall who was famously gifted to Queen Henrietta Maria in a pie.
But with his task becoming more complicated at every turn, Harry’s investigations lead him far from London, across the sea to the dangerous streets of Paris in search of a missing man and a famous diamond. But with more than one party taking an interest in his mission, and with impostors, assassins and a threat to the Queen’s life to contend with, will Harry be able to escape this adventure with his life?
My thoughts:
“The Poison Machine” is the second book of author Robert J Lloyd, and the second installment in his Hunt & Hooke series. As with the first book, this is wonderfully written, with historical detail painting a vivid picture of London and Paris in 1679.
Harry Hunt is once again a determined investigator, even though his multiple missions from various important parties (the Board of Ordinance, Lord High Treasurer Thomas Osbourne, Earl of Danbury, and Hortense Mancini, the Duchesse de Mazarin, to name a few!) lead him far from the familiar streets of London and the Royal Society, and put him at odds with Grace Hooke, a determined and independent woman towards whom Harry nurses romantic feelings.
It was enjoyable to re-visit these characters, although this book could equally be enjoyed as a standalone novel. The mixture of fictional and real-life characters and events works well (I particularly enjoyed meeting Sir Isaac Newton, and hearing him explain his invention of the cat flap!). London of the 17th Century is brought to life, and we get to see further afield this time, with Harry’s journey to the Fens (via the “prosperous village of Tottenham”!), and onward to France, where a visit to the infamous Bastille is particularly unpleasant.
Overall, this is a thoroughly enjoyable and wonderfully written historical mystery, with the 17th Century world of the natural philosophers providing the perfect backdrop to political intrigue, murder and assassination plots. Highly recommended to all fans of well-written historical fiction and intricately plotted mysteries!
April 23, 2023
Originally posted on my blog Nonstop Reader.
The Poison Machine is the second Hunt & Hooke historical mystery by Robert J. Lloyd/. Released 25th Oct 2022 by Melville House, it's 464 pages and is available in hardcover, audio, and ebook formats. Paperback format due out in 3rd quarter 2023 from the same publisher. It's worth noting that the ebook format has a handy interactive table of contents as well as interactive links and references throughout. I've really become enamored of ebooks with interactive formats lately.
This is an exceptionally well written and researched thriller/mystery set in the latter part of the 17th century in and around London. The descriptions and dialogue are precisely rendered and believable. The story follows primarily Harry Hunt, renowned scientist Robert Hooke's assistant, sent to investigate a body found in Norfolk.
The author does a wonderful job bringing the simmering religious persecution of the era to life. The fictional narrative is skillfully woven around a framework of actual historical people and incidents and it's done so seamlessly that it's not always apparent where history shades into fiction. He does a great job with the characters and even the secondary characters are three dimensional and believable. I loved the respect and finesse with which he handles the historical (and fictional) characters.
Very well written and crafted. The pacing is not slow, but it's steady and worth the build-up. The denouement and resolution were satisfying. I am looking forward to the next books in the series. The author doesn't seem to produce books at a breakneck pace, but thus far, they've absolutely been worth the wait. Quality, exemplary, believable historical fiction.
Four and a half stars. Highly recommended for fans of cerebral mysteries in the style of The Name of the Rose and Father Cadfael. It's not derivative, but there's something about the descriptive prose and very clever construction which reminds me of both of them.
Disclosure: I received an ARC at no cost from the author/publisher for review purposes.
The Poison Machine is the second Hunt & Hooke historical mystery by Robert J. Lloyd/. Released 25th Oct 2022 by Melville House, it's 464 pages and is available in hardcover, audio, and ebook formats. Paperback format due out in 3rd quarter 2023 from the same publisher. It's worth noting that the ebook format has a handy interactive table of contents as well as interactive links and references throughout. I've really become enamored of ebooks with interactive formats lately.
This is an exceptionally well written and researched thriller/mystery set in the latter part of the 17th century in and around London. The descriptions and dialogue are precisely rendered and believable. The story follows primarily Harry Hunt, renowned scientist Robert Hooke's assistant, sent to investigate a body found in Norfolk.
The author does a wonderful job bringing the simmering religious persecution of the era to life. The fictional narrative is skillfully woven around a framework of actual historical people and incidents and it's done so seamlessly that it's not always apparent where history shades into fiction. He does a great job with the characters and even the secondary characters are three dimensional and believable. I loved the respect and finesse with which he handles the historical (and fictional) characters.
Very well written and crafted. The pacing is not slow, but it's steady and worth the build-up. The denouement and resolution were satisfying. I am looking forward to the next books in the series. The author doesn't seem to produce books at a breakneck pace, but thus far, they've absolutely been worth the wait. Quality, exemplary, believable historical fiction.
Four and a half stars. Highly recommended for fans of cerebral mysteries in the style of The Name of the Rose and Father Cadfael. It's not derivative, but there's something about the descriptive prose and very clever construction which reminds me of both of them.
Disclosure: I received an ARC at no cost from the author/publisher for review purposes.
July 11, 2022
The Poison Machine by Robert J. Lloyd is an absolute cracker of a book which I thoroughly enjoyed reading and whole-heartedly recommend to lovers of suspense, crime, and historical fiction. It is the sequel to The Bloodless Boy but is very readable on its own.
The protagonist, Harry Hunt, ex-apprentice to Robert Hook of the Royal Society, is charged with solving the murder of the Queen’s dwarf. But as word spreads that he is solving this crime he is approached by a Countess to find a missing/stolen diamond and to find a man now impersonating the Queen’s murdered dwarf in France. In doing so, Harry discovers an elaborate plot to kill the Queen of England and this becomes the book’s central plot line.
When in Paris, staying with the Countess’ sister, Harry has his letter of introduction stolen and soon falls foul of Paris’ head bureaucrat. Very soon he is arrested and imprisoned in the Bastille from where he escapes with the help of an inventor’s flying apparatus. He, a trusted friend and ally and the dwarf whom he found in Paris, make their way back to the coast and then across the channel to London where they begin in earnest to solve the plot against the Queen’s life.
I’d like to share more of the plot but the second half of the book is all unravelling the conspiracies and double-crossings and building to the big finish and it’s all simply too well-crafted to reveal any of that here.
The book is superbly written, borrowing quirky language from the era and using occasional sentences in French for authenticity. The plot is relatively simple and easy to follow. There backdrop of intellectual and scientific discovery through the Royal Society gives the book a strong sense of place in time. The characters, the main ones as well as the supporting characters, are crafted magnificently with eloquent descriptions of both physical appearance and behavior. The book develops some strong relationships between the characters to give the whole story authenticity. All of that is excellent, but the last chapter is a simple and satisfying resolution to the whole story.
Peter
www.books-and-beans.com
Please visit my page and follow my reviews
The protagonist, Harry Hunt, ex-apprentice to Robert Hook of the Royal Society, is charged with solving the murder of the Queen’s dwarf. But as word spreads that he is solving this crime he is approached by a Countess to find a missing/stolen diamond and to find a man now impersonating the Queen’s murdered dwarf in France. In doing so, Harry discovers an elaborate plot to kill the Queen of England and this becomes the book’s central plot line.
When in Paris, staying with the Countess’ sister, Harry has his letter of introduction stolen and soon falls foul of Paris’ head bureaucrat. Very soon he is arrested and imprisoned in the Bastille from where he escapes with the help of an inventor’s flying apparatus. He, a trusted friend and ally and the dwarf whom he found in Paris, make their way back to the coast and then across the channel to London where they begin in earnest to solve the plot against the Queen’s life.
I’d like to share more of the plot but the second half of the book is all unravelling the conspiracies and double-crossings and building to the big finish and it’s all simply too well-crafted to reveal any of that here.
The book is superbly written, borrowing quirky language from the era and using occasional sentences in French for authenticity. The plot is relatively simple and easy to follow. There backdrop of intellectual and scientific discovery through the Royal Society gives the book a strong sense of place in time. The characters, the main ones as well as the supporting characters, are crafted magnificently with eloquent descriptions of both physical appearance and behavior. The book develops some strong relationships between the characters to give the whole story authenticity. All of that is excellent, but the last chapter is a simple and satisfying resolution to the whole story.
Peter
www.books-and-beans.com
Please visit my page and follow my reviews
November 12, 2022
I loved the Bloodless Boy (the first in the series) so I was really excited to be invited to read the second book.
This is my favourite period of history. I love murder mysteries set in Restoration London. This one can be read as a stand alone although I would definitely recommend reading The Bloodless Boy too.
This story begins in 1679 and Harry is summoned to Norfolk to investigate the murder of Queen Henrietta Maria's dwarf (famously given to her in a pie.)For reasons unknown another man has been impersonating him ever since.
Harry's mission to find the impersonator takes him to Paris where further conspiracies lie and Harry finds himself in mounting trouble. At the same time he begins to uncover a plot against the current Queen of England and the catholic members of her court. Will Harry be able to escape prison and find out when and where this attack will take place in time to stop it?
This is such an atmospheric book. I could picture both the dark underworld of London and Paris and the rich affluent court of the Queen. The fact that a lot of the characters are based on actual historical figures and linked closely to historical events made it even more exciting. Once again the author demonstrates his expertise on the history of the period and this comes out in abundance through the novel. The mix of fact and fiction was great!
I loved the character and determination of Harry to discover the truth at any cost. All of the characters are so well written I feel as though I have met them all. This coupled with an exciting plot full of intrigue and suspense meant I couldn't stop turning the pages.
The very small writing in the proof copy meant I had to concentrate (I think it might be time to get my eyes tested again!) but I was reading this late into the night to find out if Harry managed to uncover the truth and escape the assasins! A brilliant historical murder mystery that I would highly recommend.
This is my favourite period of history. I love murder mysteries set in Restoration London. This one can be read as a stand alone although I would definitely recommend reading The Bloodless Boy too.
This story begins in 1679 and Harry is summoned to Norfolk to investigate the murder of Queen Henrietta Maria's dwarf (famously given to her in a pie.)For reasons unknown another man has been impersonating him ever since.
Harry's mission to find the impersonator takes him to Paris where further conspiracies lie and Harry finds himself in mounting trouble. At the same time he begins to uncover a plot against the current Queen of England and the catholic members of her court. Will Harry be able to escape prison and find out when and where this attack will take place in time to stop it?
This is such an atmospheric book. I could picture both the dark underworld of London and Paris and the rich affluent court of the Queen. The fact that a lot of the characters are based on actual historical figures and linked closely to historical events made it even more exciting. Once again the author demonstrates his expertise on the history of the period and this comes out in abundance through the novel. The mix of fact and fiction was great!
I loved the character and determination of Harry to discover the truth at any cost. All of the characters are so well written I feel as though I have met them all. This coupled with an exciting plot full of intrigue and suspense meant I couldn't stop turning the pages.
The very small writing in the proof copy meant I had to concentrate (I think it might be time to get my eyes tested again!) but I was reading this late into the night to find out if Harry managed to uncover the truth and escape the assasins! A brilliant historical murder mystery that I would highly recommend.
November 29, 2022
Hmmm...this is a tough one. My enjoyment was a bit marred by the narrator of the Audible version of this book. I listened half the time and read the physical book the other half of the time.
The Audible narrator was not great. Though he was proficient with the numerous accents required of him, he droned on and on. I would listen for about 40 minutes, then realize I had no idea what was happening in the story. So, I would either re-listen, or play catch up at home with the physical book. This was not helped by the fact that numerous characters are introduced within each chapter and from chapter to chapter making a poor narrator a significant challenge. In the end, I gave this 3 stars (rather than 2) because anything less than 3 usually means it was consigned to my DNF list.
On to the book itself...it was a decent read. Robert Hooke plays a very small part in this story, and I felt the story suffered as a result. Harry Hunt on his own is just not as interesting to me as Hooke, so I really missed the byplay between the 2 characters. They offset each other nicely in the first book, and I was sad to have Hooke's character a mere 1/4th of the story in this sequel.
The mystery itself was not as engaging as in The Bloodless Boy. I pegged at least one of the people "whodunit" pretty early on, so it was no surprise. I DID like the inclusion of Grace Hooke as a bigger part of the story than in The Bloodless Boy.
Overall, a decent read, but nothing outstanding, especially when compared to other books I read this year. I'm not sure I'll stick with the series. It depends on the plotline of Book #3.
Meanwhile, this is book 29/30 books towards my annual Goodreads goal. On to another Wallace Stegner novel, The Big Rock Candy Mountain. Looking forward to it as I absolutely loved, loved, loved Angle of Repose and consider it to rightfully earn a place on any list of potential "Great American Novels".
The Audible narrator was not great. Though he was proficient with the numerous accents required of him, he droned on and on. I would listen for about 40 minutes, then realize I had no idea what was happening in the story. So, I would either re-listen, or play catch up at home with the physical book. This was not helped by the fact that numerous characters are introduced within each chapter and from chapter to chapter making a poor narrator a significant challenge. In the end, I gave this 3 stars (rather than 2) because anything less than 3 usually means it was consigned to my DNF list.
On to the book itself...it was a decent read. Robert Hooke plays a very small part in this story, and I felt the story suffered as a result. Harry Hunt on his own is just not as interesting to me as Hooke, so I really missed the byplay between the 2 characters. They offset each other nicely in the first book, and I was sad to have Hooke's character a mere 1/4th of the story in this sequel.
The mystery itself was not as engaging as in The Bloodless Boy. I pegged at least one of the people "whodunit" pretty early on, so it was no surprise. I DID like the inclusion of Grace Hooke as a bigger part of the story than in The Bloodless Boy.
Overall, a decent read, but nothing outstanding, especially when compared to other books I read this year. I'm not sure I'll stick with the series. It depends on the plotline of Book #3.
Meanwhile, this is book 29/30 books towards my annual Goodreads goal. On to another Wallace Stegner novel, The Big Rock Candy Mountain. Looking forward to it as I absolutely loved, loved, loved Angle of Repose and consider it to rightfully earn a place on any list of potential "Great American Novels".
July 18, 2022
When Lloyd first introduced Harry Hunt in The Bloodless Boy (a First Clue starred review and a New York Times Best New Historical Novel of 2021), the 17th-century physicist was Robert Hooke’s assistant and the investigator of the gruesome murders of London boys.
Here Hunt’s fortunes are doing both worse and better. On the glum side, we see his humiliating failure to replace Hooke as Curator of Experiments at the Royal Society for the Improving of Natural Knowledge, with Lloyd’s almost-tactile picture of academic politicking giving the book a strangely modern feel. Hunt still finds prestigious work though: when the skeleton of a dwarf is found, Queen Catherine requests Hunt as investigator. Captain Jeffrey Hudson was “her” dwarf, and Hunt is tasked with finding out both who killed him and who the still-living man is who claims to be Hudson but is taller.
The physicist’s urgent work this time (“the body will not keepe”) takes him far from the Thames shores he clung to in The Bloodless Boy. France is a major setting in the book and a final lengthy and very exciting scene takes us to the Queen’s Catholic Consult, where restrictions against the much-loathed group will be discussed. Lloyd again succeeds in creating an immersive look at the various layers of life his hero encounters, one that draws enough on real events to treat readers to intriguing history, but that also adds just the right fictional elements to keep the plot rich. Another winner.—Henrietta Verma
For more reviews of forthcoming Crime Fiction, subscribe to our weekly newsletter, First Clue: https://www.getrevue.co/profile/First...
Here Hunt’s fortunes are doing both worse and better. On the glum side, we see his humiliating failure to replace Hooke as Curator of Experiments at the Royal Society for the Improving of Natural Knowledge, with Lloyd’s almost-tactile picture of academic politicking giving the book a strangely modern feel. Hunt still finds prestigious work though: when the skeleton of a dwarf is found, Queen Catherine requests Hunt as investigator. Captain Jeffrey Hudson was “her” dwarf, and Hunt is tasked with finding out both who killed him and who the still-living man is who claims to be Hudson but is taller.
The physicist’s urgent work this time (“the body will not keepe”) takes him far from the Thames shores he clung to in The Bloodless Boy. France is a major setting in the book and a final lengthy and very exciting scene takes us to the Queen’s Catholic Consult, where restrictions against the much-loathed group will be discussed. Lloyd again succeeds in creating an immersive look at the various layers of life his hero encounters, one that draws enough on real events to treat readers to intriguing history, but that also adds just the right fictional elements to keep the plot rich. Another winner.—Henrietta Verma
For more reviews of forthcoming Crime Fiction, subscribe to our weekly newsletter, First Clue: https://www.getrevue.co/profile/First...
August 17, 2022
This is the second in a series, though I think you can read it as a stand alone, there are references to what happened in the first book though they are described if needed. In 17th century London, Harry Hunt, apprentice to Robert Hooke (an architect tasked with rebuilding London after the Great Fire) , is trying to show his latest experiment to the Royal Society for the Improving of Natural Knowledge, but he could not get it to do what he expected, later being laughed at by members of the Society. This prompts him to accept a position with another rival Society to investigate the body of a dwarf found outside of London. He soon discovers that the dwarf was murdered and that another dwarf may be impersonating him. This leads Harry to Paris where he is asked to look for a rare diamond that the murdered dwarf may have had in his possession, a large amount of money was promised if it was found. Harry is a very diligent investigator, though he soon finds himself at odds with the authorities and imprisoned due to a betrayal of a person he considered a friend. The history of London and Paris come to life, one can almost see and smell what the time would have been like. Though if you're not wealthy, life was very hard, there was not much of a middle class, you were either well off, or dirt poor. Harry persists through some very trying times, I really enjoyed the first book and this one was just as good, I look forward to another by the author. Thank you to #Netgalley and #Melville House for the ARC.
November 12, 2022
3.5 stars
A fun historical mystery set in 1679 London! Harry is hired to solve a murder that happened years ago, but the case quickly complicates with espionage, foreign plots, stolen diamonds, & religious & political tensions. The characters are great, & the story has a touching ending.
[What I liked:]
•I’ve never read a mystery set in this time period, & it was really fun! I enjoyed learning a bit about how the English justice system handled murder inquiries at the time. The setting was also decently written, & the scenes on the water were especially interesting.
•Harry, despite some rash & oblivious behavior, is a sympathetic character & I was rooting for him to succeed.
•The ending is very exciting, the plot keeps getting more complex & twisty, & there is plenty of suspense throughout!
[What I didn’t like as much:]
•Yeah, I’m just not a fan of the villain confessing to everything for no apparent reason. He felt guilty, I guess?
•Harry, despite being smart in a general sense, was completely oblivious to some very important things! Such as the feelings of his girlfriend, & that someone he trusted repeatedly stabbed him in the back. He has a moment of reflection at the end & does manage to learn from things, supposedly, but my goodness he could’ve used some reflection earlier on.
CW: murder, suicide, torture, anti-Catholic bigotry, sexism, ableism, racism
[I received an ARC ebook copy from NetGalley in exchange for my honest review. Thank you for the book!]
A fun historical mystery set in 1679 London! Harry is hired to solve a murder that happened years ago, but the case quickly complicates with espionage, foreign plots, stolen diamonds, & religious & political tensions. The characters are great, & the story has a touching ending.
[What I liked:]
•I’ve never read a mystery set in this time period, & it was really fun! I enjoyed learning a bit about how the English justice system handled murder inquiries at the time. The setting was also decently written, & the scenes on the water were especially interesting.
•Harry, despite some rash & oblivious behavior, is a sympathetic character & I was rooting for him to succeed.
•The ending is very exciting, the plot keeps getting more complex & twisty, & there is plenty of suspense throughout!
[What I didn’t like as much:]
•Yeah, I’m just not a fan of the villain confessing to everything for no apparent reason. He felt guilty, I guess?
•Harry, despite being smart in a general sense, was completely oblivious to some very important things! Such as the feelings of his girlfriend, & that someone he trusted repeatedly stabbed him in the back. He has a moment of reflection at the end & does manage to learn from things, supposedly, but my goodness he could’ve used some reflection earlier on.
CW: murder, suicide, torture, anti-Catholic bigotry, sexism, ableism, racism
[I received an ARC ebook copy from NetGalley in exchange for my honest review. Thank you for the book!]
November 14, 2022
When a body is discovered in Norfolk, believed to be that of Captain Jeffrey Hudson, a dwarf, who was heavily involved during the English Civil War, Hunt is persuaded to investigate by Sir Jonas Moore, the King’s Surveyor-General of the Board of Ordnance. With the clock ticking Hunt must not only discover the secrets so carefully hidden but must also try to foil a plot to assassinate Catherine of Braganza, the current Queen of England and the wife of King Charles II. In 1679 England was well into the restoration period, and with both religious and political unrest, Hunt certainly has to keep his considerable wits about him as he endeavours to navigate his way through the muddy waters of this current investigation.
In recreating this time so carefully and by combining fiction with factual history there's a real sense of historical accuracy so that its feels as though you are travelling, alongside Hunt, and his companions, into a complex world of espionage, intrigue and danger. The sights, sounds and atmosphere of the seventeenth century world come alive and the author does a great job of fleshing out his characters so that they leap off right off the page and into whatever shadowy danger is waiting for them.
The Poison Machine is the second book in the Hunt and Hooke series of historical adventures and whilst it is perfectly possible to read this continuation as a standalone story , it does makes sense to get a sense of the characters, particularly Hunt and Hooke, it would be better to start at the beginning with The Bloodless Boy.
In recreating this time so carefully and by combining fiction with factual history there's a real sense of historical accuracy so that its feels as though you are travelling, alongside Hunt, and his companions, into a complex world of espionage, intrigue and danger. The sights, sounds and atmosphere of the seventeenth century world come alive and the author does a great job of fleshing out his characters so that they leap off right off the page and into whatever shadowy danger is waiting for them.
The Poison Machine is the second book in the Hunt and Hooke series of historical adventures and whilst it is perfectly possible to read this continuation as a standalone story , it does makes sense to get a sense of the characters, particularly Hunt and Hooke, it would be better to start at the beginning with The Bloodless Boy.
December 20, 2022
Great time and place for a story. My main issue with this one is I had to suspend my disbelief too many times. Everything is plausible but it adds up as too fantastical. I was amused by the authors comments in the end that much is based on history, but that "I've also made stuff up." Standard for historical fiction because we don't know enough. But that the Colonel ends up being the murderer of the original captain Hudson because he wanted the diamond that Harry is now tasked with finding by a Duchess is a bit much. Also that one of the main villains is a twin of the previous villain and makes a machine so that Harry is the one that sets off the poison is too clever by half. I get the tension of is Lefevre back from the dead is good, but it ends up reading like a bad TV movie.
A shame, because the basic story of the body found, the doppelganger missing and the quest for answers is good. The diamond in the cannonball is also good. Even the escape from the Bastille was pretty clever since it feeds into Harry's natural philosopher strengths. The return of a clever cipher, the French commissionaire that is a frenemy were all good themes. But the story could have used new characters for villains, without recycling and/or tainting the old and it would have been much stronger for it.
I did learn a cool new word though - Caliginous - which I will most definitely be using in a sentence.
A shame, because the basic story of the body found, the doppelganger missing and the quest for answers is good. The diamond in the cannonball is also good. Even the escape from the Bastille was pretty clever since it feeds into Harry's natural philosopher strengths. The return of a clever cipher, the French commissionaire that is a frenemy were all good themes. But the story could have used new characters for villains, without recycling and/or tainting the old and it would have been much stronger for it.
I did learn a cool new word though - Caliginous - which I will most definitely be using in a sentence.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 24, 2022
Harry Hunt has fallen out with Robert Hooke and is summoned to windswept Norfolk. Shoring up a riverbank some workers have discovered the skeleton of a dwarf - that of Captain Jeffrey Hudson, famously once given to Queen Henrietta Maria in a pie. Except no one knew he was dead, because someone has been impersonating him.
The hunt for the impersonator takes Harry to Paris, full of conspiracies, intrigues, plots to kill the Queen and catholic members of the court.
I enjoyed being back immersed in 1679, the detail is wonderful with so much attention to creating a historical world that breathes from the page.
Harry Hunt is just a little bit naive in this one, walking himself right into danger. You do not know who to trust or believe and we rush at a pace through a twisting complex plot.
Harry finds himself embroiled deeper and deeper in trouble, imprisoned in the Bastille and accused of poisoning. Figures are at work to prevent him being back in London and with a chance to foil a plot against the Queen.
I loved following Harry Hunt through real life events reimagined, with time compressed in some places, I also love the strong female characters of Grace and the Duchesse de Mazarin and I hope they feature in future novels.
Imaginative, thrilling and with fabulous characterisation this is a perfect read for autumn nights.
The hunt for the impersonator takes Harry to Paris, full of conspiracies, intrigues, plots to kill the Queen and catholic members of the court.
I enjoyed being back immersed in 1679, the detail is wonderful with so much attention to creating a historical world that breathes from the page.
Harry Hunt is just a little bit naive in this one, walking himself right into danger. You do not know who to trust or believe and we rush at a pace through a twisting complex plot.
Harry finds himself embroiled deeper and deeper in trouble, imprisoned in the Bastille and accused of poisoning. Figures are at work to prevent him being back in London and with a chance to foil a plot against the Queen.
I loved following Harry Hunt through real life events reimagined, with time compressed in some places, I also love the strong female characters of Grace and the Duchesse de Mazarin and I hope they feature in future novels.
Imaginative, thrilling and with fabulous characterisation this is a perfect read for autumn nights.
March 1, 2023
*I received an eARC via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.*
The Poison Machine takes place a year after the end of the previous book, The Bloodless Boy and follows Harry Hunt, as he becomes estranged from his mentor, Robert Hooke, early in the book and gets involved in international mysteries and assassination plots.
Where the first book felt firmly grounded in typical mystery genre conventions, this leaned more towards thriller, which definitely impacted my enjoyment. For one, I don’t tend to enjoy thrillers in general, and for two, Lloyd once again showcased his knowledge of the era, which I loved in the first book, but here slowed the pace of what was trying to be big action sequences with plot twist after plot twist. I also struggled not seeing the interactions between Hunt and Hooke.
That being said, I still love that this series takes place in a less written about era, and I still loved reading the book with Google open next to me to learn more. And I think this book felt like Lloyd hit his stride in finding the story he wanted to tell, so I can’t fault the book for not being what I wanted to read.
The Poison Machine takes place a year after the end of the previous book, The Bloodless Boy and follows Harry Hunt, as he becomes estranged from his mentor, Robert Hooke, early in the book and gets involved in international mysteries and assassination plots.
Where the first book felt firmly grounded in typical mystery genre conventions, this leaned more towards thriller, which definitely impacted my enjoyment. For one, I don’t tend to enjoy thrillers in general, and for two, Lloyd once again showcased his knowledge of the era, which I loved in the first book, but here slowed the pace of what was trying to be big action sequences with plot twist after plot twist. I also struggled not seeing the interactions between Hunt and Hooke.
That being said, I still love that this series takes place in a less written about era, and I still loved reading the book with Google open next to me to learn more. And I think this book felt like Lloyd hit his stride in finding the story he wanted to tell, so I can’t fault the book for not being what I wanted to read.
January 7, 2023
Robert J. Lloyd is doing great things with this series, continuing with this second book to offer a well-researched deep dive into Restoration England with a venture to Paris. It also features a terrific cast of characters, namely Robert Hooke, the real life scientist and his fictional assistant Harry Hunt, who again are asked to play detectives in a time of great political and religious upheaval. Harry features more heavily than Hooke in this adventure as he leaves the Royal Society in a fit of pique and joins the Royal Ordinance Board as an investigator. He zig zags between the Fens and Cambridge (meeting Isaac Newton), London and France first seeking the disappearance of the largest known diamond in Europe, a missing spy then discovering a plot to murder Queen Henrietta of England, a prominent Catholic seeking to protect and raise others in her faith. Harry engages with a rich range of personalities who aid, hinder, hurt or inspire him in his quest to prevent a conflagration of violence and a religious war that could destroy his country. This is a big, fun read that will leave the reader eagerly waiting for the third book. I recommend Dan Calley's excellent reading on Hoopla managing a range of accents and classes. Great stuff!
September 26, 2023
My response to this volume is pretty much the same as it was to the first volume in this trilogy. That is, I’m usually not all that fond of mysteries–I don’t really like reading about murders, not to mention all the intentional misdirection and other tropes of the genre–but I do occasionally appreciate ones in interesting historical settings. This author is eager to show off his considerable historical knowledge, something that I know bothers some readers, but I can appreciate. The setting is again in the late 16th century, during the reign of King James, but this volume sends Hunt to Paris for a good chunk of the story. It includes the same vivid, cinematic descriptions of scenes, but is more closely focused on following the path to the solving of the the mysteries (not just one) at the heart of the story and somewhat less concerned with the scientific and philosophical concerns arising out of the beginnings of the rationalism of the Enlightenment that, for me, added so much to my interest in the first story. That's still here but less pronounced. In exchange, we get more of the will-they-or-won't-they love story that only began to be hinted at in the first volume, and strong-minded women play a much more vital role this time around.
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