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Order of Darkness #3
Fools' Gold
Tasked to expose a coin counterfeiting scheme, Luca and Isolde travel to Venice just in time for Carnival. Amid the masks, parties, and excitement, the romantic attraction between the two reaches a new intensity that neither can deny.
Their romance is interrupted by the arrival of the alchemist, who may be the con artist they’ve been looking for. But as Luca starts to investigate the original charge, the alchemist reveals his true goal—he plans to create the Philosopher’s Stone, a mystical substance said to be capable of turning base metals into gold and producing the elixir of life.
With pounds of undocumented gold coins and an assistant who claims to be decades older than she appears, all evidence points to the possibility that the alchemist has succeeded in his task. But as Luca and Isolde get closer to the truth, they discover that reality may be more sinister than they ever could have imagined.
Their romance is interrupted by the arrival of the alchemist, who may be the con artist they’ve been looking for. But as Luca starts to investigate the original charge, the alchemist reveals his true goal—he plans to create the Philosopher’s Stone, a mystical substance said to be capable of turning base metals into gold and producing the elixir of life.
With pounds of undocumented gold coins and an assistant who claims to be decades older than she appears, all evidence points to the possibility that the alchemist has succeeded in his task. But as Luca and Isolde get closer to the truth, they discover that reality may be more sinister than they ever could have imagined.
272 pages, Hardcover
First published January 30, 2014
237 people are currently reading
4703 people want to read
About the author
Philippa Gregory
115 books36.7k followersDR PHILIPPA GREGORY studied history at the University of Sussex and was awarded a PhD by the University of Edinburgh where she is a Regent and was made Alumna of the Year in 2009. She holds an honorary degree from Teesside University, and is a fellow of the Universities of Sussex and Cardiff. Philippa is a member of the Society of Authors and in 2016, was presented with the Outstanding Contribution to Historical Fiction Award by the Historical Writers’ Association. In 2018, she was awarded an Honorary Platinum Award by Neilsen for achieving significant lifetime sales across her entire book output. In 2021, she was awarded a CBE for services to literature and to her charity Gardens for the Gambia. and was elected as a Fellow of the Royal Historical Society.
She welcomes visitors to her site www.PhilippaGregory.com.
Philippa's Facebook page:
https://www.facebook.com/PhilippaGregoryOfficial
She welcomes visitors to her site www.PhilippaGregory.com.
Philippa's Facebook page:
https://www.facebook.com/PhilippaGregoryOfficial
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 167 reviews
October 6, 2019
The adventure continues in the third book of the Order of Darkness Series. Gosh, I don’t know how I am getting through these. Unfortunately this is not a series that I look forward to continuing, but continue I will.
Fools Gold is set in Venice where the group continue to follow the order from the mysterious Order of Darkness. To be honest I really did get tired reading this, the whole series seems like a chore to read. There does not seem to be much going on, and when something does happen it isn’t quite as exciting as I would hope.
The group themselves are a bit meh. They just seem to be trundling along. If Gregory wants to get into the YA fantasy genre I think with the current competition she really needs to bring more excitement to the table.
This is a bit of a short review but I am not sure what more to say, it’s all so bland. The historical element is okay but I was hoping for more adventure. I will continue to read the fourth book of the series as I am one of those who cannot leave a series unfinished but I do not have much hope that It will end with a bang.
Fools Gold is set in Venice where the group continue to follow the order from the mysterious Order of Darkness. To be honest I really did get tired reading this, the whole series seems like a chore to read. There does not seem to be much going on, and when something does happen it isn’t quite as exciting as I would hope.
The group themselves are a bit meh. They just seem to be trundling along. If Gregory wants to get into the YA fantasy genre I think with the current competition she really needs to bring more excitement to the table.
This is a bit of a short review but I am not sure what more to say, it’s all so bland. The historical element is okay but I was hoping for more adventure. I will continue to read the fourth book of the series as I am one of those who cannot leave a series unfinished but I do not have much hope that It will end with a bang.
June 2, 2021
Līdz ko beidzās tā daļa par mīlas "mistēriju", kurā pat galvenais varonis pats nesaprata, ar kuru no trim sievietēm pārgulējis (laikam jau lasītājam arī nebija jāsaprot, bet man joprojām nav šaubu šajā jautājumā, lai gan to "it kā" neatklāja šajā daļā), palika pat diezgan interesanti. Varbūt vaina ir manā domāšanā un nespējā nopietni uztvert viduslaikiem atbilstošu romantiku, bet tie "ak, tu nekad neuzzināsi patiesību!" un "ak, mana mīļotā, es palikšu ticot, ka tas bija tikai skaists sapnis!" man tiešām traucēja.
Turpretī tā daļa ar alķīmiju man jau bija gana tuva un vienmēr interesējusi tēma, tāpēc tas to kaut kā izlīdzināja, un beigās lielu daļu grāmatas izlasīju ar vēlmi uzzināt, kas notiks tālāk!
Turpretī tā daļa ar alķīmiju man jau bija gana tuva un vienmēr interesējusi tēma, tāpēc tas to kaut kā izlīdzināja, un beigās lielu daļu grāmatas izlasīju ar vēlmi uzzināt, kas notiks tālāk!
January 3, 2022
I highly recommend you read the first two before jumping into this one, especially considering it's book 3 in the series. This one is a bit more magical and takes you for a different kind of ride. I do thing anyone who enjoyed the first two books will enjoy this one just as much.
May 23, 2018
I'm sorry, but after struggling through the first 2 books in the series I gave up about 60 pages into this one. I cannot believe how bored I was so I gave up.
May 19, 2017
3.5 stars. For the most part, this was a huge improvement on the first two books. For some reason, I was under the assumption that this was a trilogy, so I was surprised to see that this wasn't the end.
These books definitely aren't masterpieces of fiction, but they're quick, easy reads. All of the characters are fairly stupid and annoying. A lot of things are dumbed down for a YA audience, but I think it's done in excess. While the characters are teenagers in the 15th century, they often act like today's teenagers, and I'm missing a better historical basis for their behavior.
The love triangle, if you can call it that, is ridiculously pointless. Honestly, I hated Luca in this book. You love Isolde, but you're all over Ishraq, and then you agree to have sex with some random married woman in a garden, only to change your mind, maybe? The whole garden scene is the dumbest addition to any book I've ever read. I don't see any reason to keep the possibility of Ishraq and Luca open, but Philippa Gregory insists on doing so.
The STUPID baby lizard human in a jar plot point made me want to put this book down forever. What kind of idiocy is this? It doesn't add anything to the story. At all. Oh, so dumb.
Anyway, despite the simple language and pointless additions to the story, I enjoyed this more than the first two, so I guess I'll be continuing with the series, if it ever wraps up.
These books definitely aren't masterpieces of fiction, but they're quick, easy reads. All of the characters are fairly stupid and annoying. A lot of things are dumbed down for a YA audience, but I think it's done in excess. While the characters are teenagers in the 15th century, they often act like today's teenagers, and I'm missing a better historical basis for their behavior.
The love triangle, if you can call it that, is ridiculously pointless. Honestly, I hated Luca in this book. You love Isolde, but you're all over Ishraq, and then you agree to have sex with some random married woman in a garden, only to change your mind, maybe? The whole garden scene is the dumbest addition to any book I've ever read. I don't see any reason to keep the possibility of Ishraq and Luca open, but Philippa Gregory insists on doing so.
The STUPID baby lizard human in a jar plot point made me want to put this book down forever. What kind of idiocy is this? It doesn't add anything to the story. At all. Oh, so dumb.
Anyway, despite the simple language and pointless additions to the story, I enjoyed this more than the first two, so I guess I'll be continuing with the series, if it ever wraps up.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 26, 2020
This is the third book in the Order of Darkness series and mostly takes place in the city of Venice. I enjoyed this one the most out of the others in the series and at points I couldn't put the book down. However, again there are sections which are quite boring and drag a bit.
Quite excited to read the next book in the series after this instalment.
Quite excited to read the next book in the series after this instalment.
August 5, 2020
Luca Vero and his friends are plunged into a Mystery in the middle of the worlds biggest marketplace Which happens to be in Venice. Will the Popes letters protected the travels. Lady Isolde is still running from her brother and her feels for Luca are growing could be a dangers step for the young priest.
I loved this story a lot and enjoyed the chemistry between all the four young people. There friendships between the five travels deeps and the changes they take for each other is heartwarming.
Looking forward to seen what is coming next for a young travellers.
I loved this story a lot and enjoyed the chemistry between all the four young people. There friendships between the five travels deeps and the changes they take for each other is heartwarming.
Looking forward to seen what is coming next for a young travellers.
May 27, 2019
I thoroughly enjoyed the third instalment in this series, even though it's been ages since I read the first 2. I love the characters and, as I love history, these books are great for me.
April 25, 2019
I will also do a video review here at my channel: http://www.youtube.com/magicofbooks
"Fools' Gold" is book 3 in Philippa Gregory's "Order of Darkness" series. In this installment we follow Luca and his friends as they travel to Venice to uncover a conspiracy involving the forgery of gold coins and the secrets of alchemy dealing with the philosopher's stone.
Out of the three books I've read so far in this series, I think this one is definitely my favorite so far. I really found the premise intriguing and it felt a lot more exciting, thrilling, and dangerous. I continued to enjoy Philippa Gregory's writing and historical setting. I'm curious how long this series will continue. It seems like there's a lot of potential for Gregory to take this story and characters to some interesting places and we do get a few reveals about what we could anticipate for the future. I continued to love the characters as well. The characters I've realized aren't the most deeply fleshed out but I do still find them likable and when they are in peril I panic. My one frustration with this book in particular was that I found Isolde quite irritating on occasion. Ishraq is clearly the far more nuanced and interesting female character and I feel like Gregory doesn't know what to do with Isolde. I really loved Isolde in book 1. I loved the idea of her fleaing from her home and trying to reclaim what is rightfully hers. But with this book and book 2, Isolde comes across as a bit whiny on occasion and she says and does things that are very petty and immature. For crying out loud, she acts like a modern day moody, jealous, love-struck teenage girl and it's a bit off putting. So yeah, let's just say I love Ishraq and her maturity and rational thinking. And you know, I don't mind some romance, but I am getting frustrated that Gregory hasn't done much of anything to enhance the Luca/Isolde romance. I need it sooner rather than later. And seriously, the more Freize, the better...just saying. And Brother Peter can be a bit of a mood-killer and a stickler for traditional, but I still love his purpose in these books and he occasionally has a soft spot for his companions when he feels like it. Even if the characters act annoyingly, the plot is what I dig into the most. Loved the idea of a conspiracy involving the forgery of gold coins. That goes in interesting directions and causes a series of issues for our characters that put them in and out of constant trouble. And I always love anything dealing with the mythology of the philosopher's stone.
Overall, a great third chapter to this series and now on to book 4 which is the last one of the bunch at the moment.
"Fools' Gold" is book 3 in Philippa Gregory's "Order of Darkness" series. In this installment we follow Luca and his friends as they travel to Venice to uncover a conspiracy involving the forgery of gold coins and the secrets of alchemy dealing with the philosopher's stone.
Out of the three books I've read so far in this series, I think this one is definitely my favorite so far. I really found the premise intriguing and it felt a lot more exciting, thrilling, and dangerous. I continued to enjoy Philippa Gregory's writing and historical setting. I'm curious how long this series will continue. It seems like there's a lot of potential for Gregory to take this story and characters to some interesting places and we do get a few reveals about what we could anticipate for the future. I continued to love the characters as well. The characters I've realized aren't the most deeply fleshed out but I do still find them likable and when they are in peril I panic. My one frustration with this book in particular was that I found Isolde quite irritating on occasion. Ishraq is clearly the far more nuanced and interesting female character and I feel like Gregory doesn't know what to do with Isolde. I really loved Isolde in book 1. I loved the idea of her fleaing from her home and trying to reclaim what is rightfully hers. But with this book and book 2, Isolde comes across as a bit whiny on occasion and she says and does things that are very petty and immature. For crying out loud, she acts like a modern day moody, jealous, love-struck teenage girl and it's a bit off putting. So yeah, let's just say I love Ishraq and her maturity and rational thinking. And you know, I don't mind some romance, but I am getting frustrated that Gregory hasn't done much of anything to enhance the Luca/Isolde romance. I need it sooner rather than later. And seriously, the more Freize, the better...just saying. And Brother Peter can be a bit of a mood-killer and a stickler for traditional, but I still love his purpose in these books and he occasionally has a soft spot for his companions when he feels like it. Even if the characters act annoyingly, the plot is what I dig into the most. Loved the idea of a conspiracy involving the forgery of gold coins. That goes in interesting directions and causes a series of issues for our characters that put them in and out of constant trouble. And I always love anything dealing with the mythology of the philosopher's stone.
Overall, a great third chapter to this series and now on to book 4 which is the last one of the bunch at the moment.
March 26, 2017
Takie sobie.
September 28, 2024
Another good book within this series.
Still getting used to the totally different style of this series but enjoying the books and characters.
I can imagine not for all.
Still getting used to the totally different style of this series but enjoying the books and characters.
I can imagine not for all.
October 13, 2014
Just a little warning to curious readers, you might find some small spoilers in this review! Just putting it out there!
Fools' Gold were acutally the reason why I started to read the Order of Darkness-series in the first place, because I bought this book in a book shop on a school field trip to London in March this year and then realized that it was the third part of a series. But I don't regret it because this book was actually the best in the series so far!
I really like that the story takes place in Venice (mostly because I'm kind of obsessed with Assassin's Creed II, hehe) and there was so much more intense moments than in Changeling and Stormbringers. I especially liked when Isolde stood up for herself and totally owned Lady Carintha, she was fabulous. I really love Ishraq and I still love Freize with all of my heart, they're so fabulous all of them.
Even though I still don't like Brother Peter that much and there have been many times that I wanted to smack a book in his face in pure frustration. To be honest, I found it pretty funny when he lied to save Freize. It was sweet, but very funny. I liked the little scene of "sin" as well, but I kind of left me a little bit confused...
Anyway, I really enjoyed the book! I thought it was great and I'm really looking forward to the next book!
Fools' Gold were acutally the reason why I started to read the Order of Darkness-series in the first place, because I bought this book in a book shop on a school field trip to London in March this year and then realized that it was the third part of a series. But I don't regret it because this book was actually the best in the series so far!
I really like that the story takes place in Venice (mostly because I'm kind of obsessed with Assassin's Creed II, hehe) and there was so much more intense moments than in Changeling and Stormbringers. I especially liked when Isolde stood up for herself and totally owned Lady Carintha, she was fabulous. I really love Ishraq and I still love Freize with all of my heart, they're so fabulous all of them.
Even though I still don't like Brother Peter that much and there have been many times that I wanted to smack a book in his face in pure frustration. To be honest, I found it pretty funny when he lied to save Freize. It was sweet, but very funny. I liked the little scene of "sin" as well, but I kind of left me a little bit confused...
Anyway, I really enjoyed the book! I thought it was great and I'm really looking forward to the next book!
January 15, 2018
Probably the weakest volume in the series thus far.I literally read three books in the series and would not be able to actually tell you their actual genre.While still rather addicting in that trashy YA kind of way,I must admit that the characters remain bland,lack depth and dimension,have little to no development and the amount of plot holes is quite concerning.
Isolde FINALLY had a bit of character development,preceded as it was by rather horrendous character moments,but I am so desperate at this point that the bar is so low I'll take whatever I can take.My poor Ishraq keeps lacking consistency and making her fancy the absolute bore that is Luca is taking a serious few years off my life.I somehow find myself rooting for her and Freize (I suppose partly just to know that I'm doing something and putting part of my energy somewhere that isn't purely hating Luca).
Back to Luca,WHAT A BORE.WHAT A NUISANCE.I DON'T THINK I'VE BEEN THIS AGAINST A CHARACTER IN AGES.I am meant to buy him as this great intellectual -must always remember he is also of such beauty,though!!-,but I literally cannot stand him and he makes such poor life choices that I don't know whether to laugh or cry.Secret mission??I KNOW,LET'S HAVE HIM SELL HIS SOB STORY TO ANYONE THAT'D LISTEN!!!Cover story?Secret identity?Sticking to plans?He knows no such things.
Isolde FINALLY had a bit of character development,preceded as it was by rather horrendous character moments,but I am so desperate at this point that the bar is so low I'll take whatever I can take.My poor Ishraq keeps lacking consistency and making her fancy the absolute bore that is Luca is taking a serious few years off my life.I somehow find myself rooting for her and Freize (I suppose partly just to know that I'm doing something and putting part of my energy somewhere that isn't purely hating Luca).
Back to Luca,WHAT A BORE.WHAT A NUISANCE.I DON'T THINK I'VE BEEN THIS AGAINST A CHARACTER IN AGES.I am meant to buy him as this great intellectual -must always remember he is also of such beauty,though!!-,but I literally cannot stand him and he makes such poor life choices that I don't know whether to laugh or cry.Secret mission??I KNOW,LET'S HAVE HIM SELL HIS SOB STORY TO ANYONE THAT'D LISTEN!!!Cover story?Secret identity?Sticking to plans?He knows no such things.
July 28, 2014
Definitely my favourite in the series so far.
The travelling group now has to go to Venice to find out the mystery of the gold coins. They go during the 20 days of sin before lent. This has some interesting affects on our group.
First, I have to say I don't like the love triangle. I really wants Isolde and Luca to end up together but I don't really know if that is going to happen. They look like they love each other but with the entrance of Ishraq, I can't say that I'm confident in there love affair. Anyways, some very interesting things happen in that respect.
Then we get to the whole Order of Darkness thing. They are just blindly following orders and that seems to be dying a little bit. I don't think that some of them realize how little they no about this Milord fellow. It will make for an interesting reveal.
Isolde has some major improvements to her character. I liked them a lot.
This was really the first one in this series that really wasn't slow all the time. Yes, it was a little bit difficult to get into at the beginning, but it definitely picks up the pace. I also liked the plot. There was enough romance to balance out inquiry about the coins.
I can't wait to see where they will go next!
The travelling group now has to go to Venice to find out the mystery of the gold coins. They go during the 20 days of sin before lent. This has some interesting affects on our group.
First, I have to say I don't like the love triangle. I really wants Isolde and Luca to end up together but I don't really know if that is going to happen. They look like they love each other but with the entrance of Ishraq, I can't say that I'm confident in there love affair. Anyways, some very interesting things happen in that respect.
Then we get to the whole Order of Darkness thing. They are just blindly following orders and that seems to be dying a little bit. I don't think that some of them realize how little they no about this Milord fellow. It will make for an interesting reveal.
Isolde has some major improvements to her character. I liked them a lot.
This was really the first one in this series that really wasn't slow all the time. Yes, it was a little bit difficult to get into at the beginning, but it definitely picks up the pace. I also liked the plot. There was enough romance to balance out inquiry about the coins.
I can't wait to see where they will go next!
December 4, 2021
This book is set in Venice during the Dark Ages, after the Roman Empire's defeat at the hands of the Ottomans. The Church has ordered a group of religious scholars to investigate the mysterious, new gold coins that have entered the market. Many people speculate over their value and hope to turn a profit by investing in them.
The premise was interesting but the execution was horrible. It was difficult to believe that everything fell into place for the investigative team so easily and they were able to pull off their ridiculous plans without any major losses. The villains in this book were far too magnanimous and chose to be convinced only with mere words.
Gregory is a master storyteller when it comes to forbidden love but even the romantic relationships in this book fell short of their usual standard.
The premise was interesting but the execution was horrible. It was difficult to believe that everything fell into place for the investigative team so easily and they were able to pull off their ridiculous plans without any major losses. The villains in this book were far too magnanimous and chose to be convinced only with mere words.
Gregory is a master storyteller when it comes to forbidden love but even the romantic relationships in this book fell short of their usual standard.
June 28, 2022
As we approach the half way point in this book, I was thinking this was probably the best half of the series and a 4 star review was on its way. A great blend of location; mystery and the relationships and bond between the characters.
However, things take a turn for the worse. We have a bizarre scene that is intended to spice up the romance between several characters but doesn't match any of the motivation and behaviour that has come before (or after) The book also lurches from historical fiction to historical fantasy. Whilst it is often effective to surprise the reader, this also felt out of place and a sign that the author doesn't really know what genre these books fit into.
Lets hope the final book wraps things up and we can all move on to better things.
However, things take a turn for the worse. We have a bizarre scene that is intended to spice up the romance between several characters but doesn't match any of the motivation and behaviour that has come before (or after) The book also lurches from historical fiction to historical fantasy. Whilst it is often effective to surprise the reader, this also felt out of place and a sign that the author doesn't really know what genre these books fit into.
Lets hope the final book wraps things up and we can all move on to better things.
January 31, 2016
I am loving this series more and more. After another (mis)adventure, this time in Venice, the gang is finally starting to ask the right questions and question the orders instead of following them blindly (except Brother Peter; he is not quite there yet, poor soul). I really want to know what exactly is Milord's agenda. I already have my suspicions about his identity, but what exactly is he trying to accomplish, is still beyond me. Can't wait for the next one. According to Gregory, it should have been published in 2014, but there is no indication of a title as of yet, much less a publication date, on her page.
March 19, 2017
Good distraction but hardly well constructed
This book, like most of Ms Gregory's post-Boleyn-girl novels felt hastily written and edited with thin characters and many plot holes. Still written in her signature style, it is an enjoyable, entertaining read for her fans. It just isn't a good representation of the writer that I think she truly is.
This book, like most of Ms Gregory's post-Boleyn-girl novels felt hastily written and edited with thin characters and many plot holes. Still written in her signature style, it is an enjoyable, entertaining read for her fans. It just isn't a good representation of the writer that I think she truly is.
August 1, 2016
Philippa Gregory teaches economics...and it's fun!
August 25, 2020
En esta tercera entrega de la saga de la orden de la oscuridad de Philippa Gregory, seguimos acompañando la travesía de este grupo peculiar, donde un inquisidor y su sirviente, un padre, una dama desterrada y su "esclava" se verán envueltos en una conspiración en la ciudad de Venecia. La ciudad más rica del mundo por esos tiempos. Luca, Isolda, Freizer, Israhq y el hermano pedro tendrán que investigar el origen de las monedas de oro que circulan por toda la ciudad y ha acabado con la razón de todos los ciudadanos. La fiebre por estas monedas de oro corrompe cada rincón de la ciudad y está en este grupo descubrir que hay detrás de aquel oro, aunque tengan que traicionar su moral y sus valores para conseguir la verdad.
En mi opinión creo que es el mejor libro de los tres que he leído. La autora maneja muy bien el contexto histórico, recreado a la perfección la época donde se desarrolla la historia. Considero que la trama es espectacular, te atrapa y te envuelve en el misterio, obligandote también a conspirar y a querer resolver el caso de las monedas de oro. El toque de fantasía es tan sutil que no se hace pesado o ilógico. En cuanto a los personajes creo que Isolda a dado varios pasos hacia atrás, en esta entrega se volvio mucho mas sumisa, chillona, moralista e inmadura, hubo momentos donde sus escenas me estresaban un poco, ya que en la primera entrega se mostraba como una mujer fuerte, dispuesta a todo por recuperar las tierras que le pertenecen y en esta simplemente agacha la cabeza ante las órdenes de los hombres. El mejor personaje del libro es Israhq, es uno de los personajes femeninos más fuertes que he leído, puesto que sus habilidades, su madurez y su inteligencia la hacen todo un símbolo de lo que debe ser un mujer, independiente, audaz y que a pesar de ser mujer en aquella época donde las mujeres no podían tener voz, ella se hace escuchar y mejor aún, es que por momentos ella es mucho mas líder que Luca y eso me ha encantado. Luca por su parte ha tenido un buen desarrollo, cada dia se abre mas a sus sentimientos y es capaz de expresar lo que siente sin tanto miedo, es un hombre fuerte y muy inteligente, con un valor de la familia muy arraigado en el, es un personaje muy humano ya que tiene virtudes y defectos y eso hace que el personaje sea muy tridimensional. En cuanto a Freizer y el padre Pedro considero que la trama no sería igual sin su presencia ya que ellos ayudan a dar forma a las circunstancias que se van presentando, por su parte Freizer brinda la comedia y esa inocencia que se hace que la lectura sea mucho más ligera y el hermano Pedro brinda ese contraste entre la fe devota y la lógica.
En general considero que es una saga que vale la pena de leer.
En mi opinión creo que es el mejor libro de los tres que he leído. La autora maneja muy bien el contexto histórico, recreado a la perfección la época donde se desarrolla la historia. Considero que la trama es espectacular, te atrapa y te envuelve en el misterio, obligandote también a conspirar y a querer resolver el caso de las monedas de oro. El toque de fantasía es tan sutil que no se hace pesado o ilógico. En cuanto a los personajes creo que Isolda a dado varios pasos hacia atrás, en esta entrega se volvio mucho mas sumisa, chillona, moralista e inmadura, hubo momentos donde sus escenas me estresaban un poco, ya que en la primera entrega se mostraba como una mujer fuerte, dispuesta a todo por recuperar las tierras que le pertenecen y en esta simplemente agacha la cabeza ante las órdenes de los hombres. El mejor personaje del libro es Israhq, es uno de los personajes femeninos más fuertes que he leído, puesto que sus habilidades, su madurez y su inteligencia la hacen todo un símbolo de lo que debe ser un mujer, independiente, audaz y que a pesar de ser mujer en aquella época donde las mujeres no podían tener voz, ella se hace escuchar y mejor aún, es que por momentos ella es mucho mas líder que Luca y eso me ha encantado. Luca por su parte ha tenido un buen desarrollo, cada dia se abre mas a sus sentimientos y es capaz de expresar lo que siente sin tanto miedo, es un hombre fuerte y muy inteligente, con un valor de la familia muy arraigado en el, es un personaje muy humano ya que tiene virtudes y defectos y eso hace que el personaje sea muy tridimensional. En cuanto a Freizer y el padre Pedro considero que la trama no sería igual sin su presencia ya que ellos ayudan a dar forma a las circunstancias que se van presentando, por su parte Freizer brinda la comedia y esa inocencia que se hace que la lectura sea mucho más ligera y el hermano Pedro brinda ese contraste entre la fe devota y la lógica.
En general considero que es una saga que vale la pena de leer.
January 13, 2018
I was most upset at the end of this book in realising that there is ANOTHER book in this series out this year. I soldiered on with courage to get through this book with the happy thought that when I was done I wouldn't have to do it again.
The truth is that Fool's Gold is better than the other two put together (but then again, that really couldn't be hard), but it was in no way exceptional.
One pick nit pick...one of the characters is descried as having a handgun holstered at his side. I picked up on this historical inaccuracy in the last book. In the 15th Century, guns were only just being developed, and in the period date this novel is set, the smallest 'handgun' was the length of a rifle and the barrel so heavy it needed a tripod to hold it up while shooting. Well, I suppose the character in question might also have been described as being a giant and incredibly strong. If he was then I missed it though sheer boredom and skim reading.
I know I won't revisit this story or series at all. There are better books out there.
The truth is that Fool's Gold is better than the other two put together (but then again, that really couldn't be hard), but it was in no way exceptional.
One pick nit pick...one of the characters is descried as having a handgun holstered at his side. I picked up on this historical inaccuracy in the last book. In the 15th Century, guns were only just being developed, and in the period date this novel is set, the smallest 'handgun' was the length of a rifle and the barrel so heavy it needed a tripod to hold it up while shooting. Well, I suppose the character in question might also have been described as being a giant and incredibly strong. If he was then I missed it though sheer boredom and skim reading.
I know I won't revisit this story or series at all. There are better books out there.
September 1, 2021
Terminada mais uma fase da aventura de Luca Vero e os amigos na luta pela salvação do mundo contra as trevas.
Desta vez, as ordens foram para viajarem até Veneza e descobrirem quem anda a falsificar o nobre inglês, a moeda que está a enriquecer a terra mais bonita e poderosa da cristandade.
Descobrimos os segredos da alquimia e dos pecados que circundam por toda a Veneza.
Luca e Isolde estão cada vez mais próximos, Ishraq cada vez mais apaixonante como personagem, assim como Freize, sempre divertido e bondoso e também um escrivão Peter mais interessante.
Novas revelações acerca dos destinos dos pais de Luca e acerca das galés de escravos e dos seus senhores.
E quando tudo parece perdido eis que o senhor das trevas surpreende mais uma vez.
Afinal, quem é esta personagem tão perturbadora e misteriosa?
Será a Ordem das Trevas o destino de Luca? Estará ele a lutar do lado certo?
Ansiosa para ler o próximo volume da série!
Desta vez, as ordens foram para viajarem até Veneza e descobrirem quem anda a falsificar o nobre inglês, a moeda que está a enriquecer a terra mais bonita e poderosa da cristandade.
Descobrimos os segredos da alquimia e dos pecados que circundam por toda a Veneza.
Luca e Isolde estão cada vez mais próximos, Ishraq cada vez mais apaixonante como personagem, assim como Freize, sempre divertido e bondoso e também um escrivão Peter mais interessante.
Novas revelações acerca dos destinos dos pais de Luca e acerca das galés de escravos e dos seus senhores.
E quando tudo parece perdido eis que o senhor das trevas surpreende mais uma vez.
Afinal, quem é esta personagem tão perturbadora e misteriosa?
Será a Ordem das Trevas o destino de Luca? Estará ele a lutar do lado certo?
Ansiosa para ler o próximo volume da série!
July 19, 2022
Having now read the third book in this trilogy, one thing I have noticed is about the pace of the writing. In all three books I found that there were sections of the stories where it seemed to plod a bit, but then the pace quickened and it all became very exciting and un-put-downable. I suppose this mirrors the fact that each book recounts part of a journey, and on any journey there will be slow and faster sections. This third book is set in mediaeval Venice - it all feels very well researched and realistic. The enquirer Luca Vero has been sent to find out about suspicious gold coins which have been appearing in the city and finds himself involved with secrets and intrigue.
I'm looking forward to reading novels four and five in this series, but am amused/bemused to discover that they are targeted at young adults (and not retired ones...!!!)
I'm looking forward to reading novels four and five in this series, but am amused/bemused to discover that they are targeted at young adults (and not retired ones...!!!)
April 15, 2022
This book was a disappointment compared to the first book in the series.
- whereas the other books were full of mini-adventures, this book was one long mystery that I solved pretty quickly
- I felt like the overarching storyline wasn't progressing
- the characters aren't growing as much as I would anticipate three books into the series
- a weird love triangle/square going on yet at the same time barely any romance
- the writing is simple so it's easy to read
- the research done is impressive because it feels quite immersive and I get a real sense of what it's like to live in Renaissance Italy
Overall I think the book had potential, but the underdeveloped characters and slow storyline were a letdown for me. I have this book 3/5 stars.
- whereas the other books were full of mini-adventures, this book was one long mystery that I solved pretty quickly
- I felt like the overarching storyline wasn't progressing
- the characters aren't growing as much as I would anticipate three books into the series
- a weird love triangle/square going on yet at the same time barely any romance
- the writing is simple so it's easy to read
- the research done is impressive because it feels quite immersive and I get a real sense of what it's like to live in Renaissance Italy
Overall I think the book had potential, but the underdeveloped characters and slow storyline were a letdown for me. I have this book 3/5 stars.
March 28, 2019
Luca, Frieze, Isolde, Ishraq, and Brother Peter are sent to Venice to pose as a merchant family, and investigate the influx of English Nobles. The market in Venice has been flooded with gold English Nobles. Nobody know why there are so many, and where they are all coming from, but their value just keeps increasing. Luca is sent to investigate to see if they might be forgeries.
Honestly, this book was boring. The plot was uninteresting, and the characters kept making dumb decisions. About the only thing I did like was the setting. I have always wanted to go to Carnevale in Venice, and at that time period it just seems so magical.
Honestly, this book was boring. The plot was uninteresting, and the characters kept making dumb decisions. About the only thing I did like was the setting. I have always wanted to go to Carnevale in Venice, and at that time period it just seems so magical.
November 5, 2021
Luca Vero and his companions travel to Venice during Carnevale. Luca's mission is to study the English gold noble coins that are in circulation to determine their authenticity and expose any coin counterfeiters that are operating in Venice.
The book is easy to read and suitable for a young adult reader. The black and white illustrations at the start of each section/chapter is representative of the content of the novel. You get the basic story with two dimensional characters and settings that lack depth or colour. There are interesting historical references of places and customs, but the bulk of the novel is light, fluffy entertainment.
The book is easy to read and suitable for a young adult reader. The black and white illustrations at the start of each section/chapter is representative of the content of the novel. You get the basic story with two dimensional characters and settings that lack depth or colour. There are interesting historical references of places and customs, but the bulk of the novel is light, fluffy entertainment.
December 31, 2017
It took some dedication to become submerged into the story line. In fairness I did begin the last book first and was rather lost at first in the plot; however, after a couple chapters was easy enough to determine character lines. I dislike how the alchemists were introduced and their strange creature as well as how it was also easily dismissed without a real conclusion of what happened to the characters. The romantic interests were teased and some action with the don't ask don't tell and emotional forgetfulness of devious agreements.
March 2, 2020
2,5/5
w ogólnym rozrachunku cała trylogia wypadła całkiem w porządku, aczkolwiek nie były to książki, które zmieniły moje czytelnicze życie. wręcz przeciwnie, powiedziałabym nawet, że nic do niego nie wniosły. historia od samego początku była prosta, jedynie w pierwszym tomie dałam się podejść, a poza tym wszystko dało się przewidzieć. z postaci moją uwagę przykuła tylko irszak, a reszta na jej tle wypadła dosyć blado. nie wiem czy przeczytałabym to jeszcze raz, gdybym miała taką możliwość, ale też nie żałuje, że to zrobiłam.
w ogólnym rozrachunku cała trylogia wypadła całkiem w porządku, aczkolwiek nie były to książki, które zmieniły moje czytelnicze życie. wręcz przeciwnie, powiedziałabym nawet, że nic do niego nie wniosły. historia od samego początku była prosta, jedynie w pierwszym tomie dałam się podejść, a poza tym wszystko dało się przewidzieć. z postaci moją uwagę przykuła tylko irszak, a reszta na jej tle wypadła dosyć blado. nie wiem czy przeczytałabym to jeszcze raz, gdybym miała taką możliwość, ale też nie żałuje, że to zrobiłam.
August 4, 2017
3.5, rounded up. I liked the setting in Venice and the history, but I feel like the characterization was off for all of the characters and it was just written off as, "Venice is sinful," and I don't know how I feel about adding the more fantasy-esque elements. I normally like fantasy, but it just seems off here. I am looking forward to the last book though and how our characters conclude their adventure.
July 3, 2018
Things are getting quite weird with this little group. Alchemy and many other nefarious things come up in this book. I did, however, love the location of Venice! It was easy to picture the scenes they way Gregory writes about everything. I am definitely curious as to how many books will be in this series. I do look forward to the next installment and seeing more developments with the characters and their relationships.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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