* A huge Thank You to Michael Ward for sending me a copy of his book, in exchange for an honest review.
The Drums of War by Michael Ward
This is the third novel in the Thomas Tallant mystery
series by Ward. However, the book can be read as a standalone. It is set in 17th
century London, during the outbreak of the English Civil War. Thomas Tallant, a
spice merchant, is asked to investigate and find a lethal hoard of hidden gunpowder,
and with the assistance of Elizabeth Seymour, find a sniper picking off Parliamentary
officers in the city. Elizabeth also has a jewel thief to find and goes
underground to trace his hoard.
This story is action packed, and it will leave you guessing
till the very end! The book follows Thomas and Elizabeth as they go about their
missions in alternating chapters, but a second viewpoint is added to the story,
that of the jewel thief, which really adds to the mystery. The Drums of War is
peppered with real historical figures, and Ward certainly knows his stuff about
the difficulties of life, politics, and war in 17th century England.
Families and friendships were torn apart when it came to where loyalties lay, either
with the King or with Parliament.
I loved both Thomas and Elizabeth, they were such well
written characters. Elizabeth was my favourite, a pipe-smoking genius who uses
mathematics, science and medicine to her advantage whilst investigating. She’s
very observant, quick witted and brave. However, even she cannot use her usual
logic when faced with the horrors of war. As a man, Thomas is in the midst of
war and has many lucky escapes. It’s safe to say neither character will ever be the
same after all that they witness. And even though their missions take them off
on separate journeys at times, the two have an undeniable chemistry.
Ward’s brilliant writing really immerses you in the plot,
and many times I found myself thinking how horrific the battles must have been.
He brings the 17th century alive, and there is a brilliant and
clever twist at the very end, which every history fan is sure to love! I hope
this isn’t the last book in this incredible series. (It would also make an excellent
TV show!!)
The Drums of War is out now, and you can buy a copy here
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