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The Trials of Iron William Kidd #2
Iron William and the Carpenter's Tears
The year is 1543. Iron William Kidd, a former English spy, is knee deep in trouble. After his latest mission goes gravely wrong, he is left with badly crippled hands. Now he has to hunt for the mythical Tears of Christ. The price of failure is his head.
However, every country has agents seeking this ancient prize, as The Tears hold a secret that will change the balance of power in Europe forever. Unlocking the mystery of The Tears becomes a perilous race against time where there can be only one victor.
You can read a free preview here.
However, every country has agents seeking this ancient prize, as The Tears hold a secret that will change the balance of power in Europe forever. Unlocking the mystery of The Tears becomes a perilous race against time where there can be only one victor.
You can read a free preview here.
- GenresFantasy
191 pages, Paperback
First published June 5, 2013
1 person is currently reading
228 people want to read
About the author
Michael Gardner
20 books74 followersMichael Gardner writes stories from the twilight zone of his mind, a middle ground between light and shadow, between science and superstition and his sock drawer. Cross over if you dare.
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Displaying 1 - 21 of 21 reviews
December 29, 2019
Iron William has been dispatched, at great personal peril and on pain of death, to find and retrieve the tears shed by Christ at the tomb of Lazarus (miraculously transformed into a spellbinding blue gem) and deliver this relic to the Vatican. Here begins a rousing adventure over land and sea that will test Iron William's courage, friendships, kindness, and cunning. If you love high stakes, unrelenting adventure, and (for the genre) complex and memorable characters, you'll enjoy this one. This is the second book I've read in Gardner's The Trials of Iron William Kidd series and it won't be my last.
February 23, 2020
A most entertaining historical adventure, recounting a story of a time when you can imagine that the life of a spy, despite being full of betrayal, intrigue and murder, still retained a touch of romance. Iron William Kidd, an English spy recently retired with a certain amount of prejudice, pursues his quest for a lost treasure of the ancient world across a Renaissance landscape where the French, Spanish and English empires vie for power, the Pope still has a few of his own divisions, Venice rules the Adriatic, and the Turks threaten Europe (well, okay, some things haven't changed that much).
I didn't initially feel a lot of empathy with Iron William, but the character grew on me, and the rest of the cast is lively, especially Tom Flint, William's sometime partner in spycraft. The story's nonstop action and adventure, with a touch of mystery thrown in, ensure that you won't put this one down until the last virtual page is turned.
The short prequel to this novel, Iron William and the Lost Prophecy, is also not to be missed. It's a tale that includes both Nostradamus and Leonardo da Vinci. I need say no more.
I didn't initially feel a lot of empathy with Iron William, but the character grew on me, and the rest of the cast is lively, especially Tom Flint, William's sometime partner in spycraft. The story's nonstop action and adventure, with a touch of mystery thrown in, ensure that you won't put this one down until the last virtual page is turned.
The short prequel to this novel, Iron William and the Lost Prophecy, is also not to be missed. It's a tale that includes both Nostradamus and Leonardo da Vinci. I need say no more.
June 13, 2014
**All spoilers removed**
-Great book for middle school and above (may even be ok for some younger. Only moderate violence (not overly details), very few "bad" words, no "sexual scenes" (one that mentions a man who did not have his pants on due to a romantic adventure, but that's all the details you get!) and no traumatic situations)
Amazing story!!! Defiantly not what I expected. This is one action packed journey! The author does a great job with keeping your mind on Kidd's current adventure, while incorporating all the needed information from his past (in the mean time leaving you hand for a chapter building suspense).
The journey and quest of the guards for the King of England (King Henry) had my attention from the very beginning. Then a plot twist in the form of hands hurt so badly that tools of the trade are no longer an option and then the daunting task of finding the Tears of Christ are thrown into the mix. The quest to find the Tears may well have been the most intriguing and exciting adventure I've read in some time! It's like a true treasure hunt or the pot of gold at the end of a rainbow (only the prize is actually there to find). The history and passion that was poured into this novel was astounding! Fighting by land and sea, unlocking cryptic messages from days long since past, and traveling all over all in the hopes to find an ancient treasure that had been thought of by many as a folk lore!
Each character was incredibly unique and extremely well developed. Kidd begins his journey on a quest, literally for his life, and ends up on a quest of self discovery and growth. Each character had their own backstory and showed great growth and development as "Iron William" makes his way across the lands. There was never a shortage of suspense, action, or plot twist. Michael Gardner is an author to watch!
There's just enough detail to allow your imagination to follow along and gain a clear mental picture of evens, without drawing it out into something long and boring. The excitement of not knowing friends from enemy keeps the reader on the edge and there's defiantly no way to guess how things are about to happen or how it may all end! I think my favorite part of this particular novel was that there was no "instant love" or even fast developed love story (or even a love story for the matter!!) Gardner may have created the only book that I have fallen in love with that did not contain a love story or complex man/woman relationship. It was amazingly well done because there is so much other action that you don't even miss the relationship!!
I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys a fantasy read, adventure, travel, suspense, and this is an excellent "mans book" ( as my fiancé would classify them (although I LOVED IT AS WELL). It's got the action and adventure without being sappy at all. Also it's got original ideas without being overly far fetched. Overall I don't think there is anyone I would not recommend this one to! ;)
** I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review**
September 11, 2013
Great plot, well-researched, and above all, fun to read!
Iron William Kidd is a former secret agent for the English King Henry. After falling out of favor, he finds himself opposite a former colleague, Hamilton Rush. When the two collide, the results are disastrous for both, though Kidd seems to get the worst of it. He nearly loses his hands, but his friend Vllen, one of the innovative minds of the budding renaissance, devises a pair of metal gauntlets that fuse with his maimed flesh.
Not only must Kidd cope with his less than agile replacement hands, but also a nearly impossible quest. With nothing more than a snippet of text hinting at the missing relic's existence and the threat of the Church's retribution should he fail, Kidd is faced with the ultimate cold case file, and he's not the only one after the prize.
First of all, bravo on the research. The story is set in the renaissance, where science and innovation are just starting to take off. The locations, the empires, and the way of life are depicted realistically, as are the biblical references (and scenes). In fact, I found the lost history of the Tears to be the most fascinating aspect of the story. Never too much at once, the details are brought to life as Kidd discovers them, sometimes by chance, other times by deduction.
The plot is solid, and everything that happens in the story, happens for a reason, and the story moves forward in a natural progression that draws one to the next page, the next chapter and right into the wee hours of the morning. One of the things I enjoyed is that the story mixes epic quest with historical mystery. Add in the action and the likable characters and it makes for a fun and exciting read. I'm not often able to link a book to a similar book or movie, but in this case, the Indiana Jones movies seem to be a good match.
As for flaws, there were few. I noticed a few typos here and there, but they are infrequent and didn't distract me from the story. Also, the part where Kidd is in training seems a bit rushed in places and slow in others. Although both the stump exercise and the snake test are tied in with the story later on, I'm not exactly sure what Kidd was supposed to learn from them.
Overall, Iron William and the Carpenter's Tears has a fantastic story line, interesting characters and solid details. I most definitely plan to read this book again and highly recommend it to anyone who enjoys historical action/adventure with a powerful relic thrown in the mix, secret societies bent on protecting it and powerful villains out to exploit it. Those who love watching (and perhaps re-watching) the Indiana Jones movies will likely enjoy this book for the same reasons.
I received a free copy of this book in return for an honest, non-reciprocal review.
Iron William Kidd is a former secret agent for the English King Henry. After falling out of favor, he finds himself opposite a former colleague, Hamilton Rush. When the two collide, the results are disastrous for both, though Kidd seems to get the worst of it. He nearly loses his hands, but his friend Vllen, one of the innovative minds of the budding renaissance, devises a pair of metal gauntlets that fuse with his maimed flesh.
Not only must Kidd cope with his less than agile replacement hands, but also a nearly impossible quest. With nothing more than a snippet of text hinting at the missing relic's existence and the threat of the Church's retribution should he fail, Kidd is faced with the ultimate cold case file, and he's not the only one after the prize.
First of all, bravo on the research. The story is set in the renaissance, where science and innovation are just starting to take off. The locations, the empires, and the way of life are depicted realistically, as are the biblical references (and scenes). In fact, I found the lost history of the Tears to be the most fascinating aspect of the story. Never too much at once, the details are brought to life as Kidd discovers them, sometimes by chance, other times by deduction.
The plot is solid, and everything that happens in the story, happens for a reason, and the story moves forward in a natural progression that draws one to the next page, the next chapter and right into the wee hours of the morning. One of the things I enjoyed is that the story mixes epic quest with historical mystery. Add in the action and the likable characters and it makes for a fun and exciting read. I'm not often able to link a book to a similar book or movie, but in this case, the Indiana Jones movies seem to be a good match.
As for flaws, there were few. I noticed a few typos here and there, but they are infrequent and didn't distract me from the story. Also, the part where Kidd is in training seems a bit rushed in places and slow in others. Although both the stump exercise and the snake test are tied in with the story later on, I'm not exactly sure what Kidd was supposed to learn from them.
Overall, Iron William and the Carpenter's Tears has a fantastic story line, interesting characters and solid details. I most definitely plan to read this book again and highly recommend it to anyone who enjoys historical action/adventure with a powerful relic thrown in the mix, secret societies bent on protecting it and powerful villains out to exploit it. Those who love watching (and perhaps re-watching) the Indiana Jones movies will likely enjoy this book for the same reasons.
I received a free copy of this book in return for an honest, non-reciprocal review.
September 26, 2013
A great little adventure set in the late renaissance–early reformation, a time of great changes and turmoil in Europe, Iron William and the Carpenter's Tears, never disappoints. It follows the adventures of one “Iron” William Kidd, a former spy for Henry the Eighth, who now finds himself without country or allegiance, a spy for hire. Unfortunately for him, there are quite a number of other persons and groups with similar skills to his who are competing to obtain his object of conquest in this particular installment, the Carpenter’s Tears. The Carpenter being Jesus and the Tears being a jewel which was apparently formed from Jesus’ tears when he brought Lazarus back from the dead.
The story is well written and the characters are well developed and fully realized. There is slight introspection which I feel is appropriate for this style of novel. I rate it a full 5 stars.
The only items of caution that I will point out might be of concern to a Christian reader who does not like any form of Biblical deviation. First, part of the story involves the Carpenter’s Tears jewel as described above and one of the evidences for its existence is a newly found chunk of scripture that is not in the Bible. I only point this out because I could see where finding some new scripture, however innocuous, might bother someone of a conservative Christian persuasion.
Second, the jewel is a sort of relic similar to Jesus’ cross or perhaps the shroud of Turin and the strong desire for the jewel is because it supposedly grants both longevity on the order of thousands of years and can heal people of sickness. In fact, a non-Christian pretending to be a doctor obtains the jewel and uses it to heal people for many, many years. I think that this might rub some Christians the wrong way since the physical object seems to be the cause of these miracles and not faith.
These two points are probably not important to most people and I only mention them for completeness. Overall I very much enjoyed the tale.
The story is well written and the characters are well developed and fully realized. There is slight introspection which I feel is appropriate for this style of novel. I rate it a full 5 stars.
The only items of caution that I will point out might be of concern to a Christian reader who does not like any form of Biblical deviation. First, part of the story involves the Carpenter’s Tears jewel as described above and one of the evidences for its existence is a newly found chunk of scripture that is not in the Bible. I only point this out because I could see where finding some new scripture, however innocuous, might bother someone of a conservative Christian persuasion.
Second, the jewel is a sort of relic similar to Jesus’ cross or perhaps the shroud of Turin and the strong desire for the jewel is because it supposedly grants both longevity on the order of thousands of years and can heal people of sickness. In fact, a non-Christian pretending to be a doctor obtains the jewel and uses it to heal people for many, many years. I think that this might rub some Christians the wrong way since the physical object seems to be the cause of these miracles and not faith.
These two points are probably not important to most people and I only mention them for completeness. Overall I very much enjoyed the tale.
March 11, 2014
Iron William and the Carpenter's tears is a rip-roaring tale of non-stop action that should appeal to fans of Conn Iggulden or Bernard Cornwell.
William Kidd, the hero of the tale, comes across as a 16th century Indiana Jones, constantly on the move trying to evade his pursuers and avoid betrayal in his search for an ancient and holy relic.
Gardner succeeds excellently at creating a quick-paced, enjoyable tale as the protagonist swiftly moves from one exotic location to another, from Florence to Tunis, Beirut, Damascus and Cyprus to name a few before returning to Rome. The dialogue is sharp and the conversation never dwells for long before the next step in the adventure.
However, this is also the one drawback in Gardener's story. He creates a number of wonderfully interesting characters but never stops to really tell us more about them. William Kidd's history in the English Secret Service (and the service itself, spymasters being a particular curiosity at the time), his sinister rival, his old, now-mad friend and a samurai-trained monk are just a few of the intriguing elements of the story I would like to have known more about. Even the unique idea of having his hans encased in iron is one that truly catches the attention of the reader but is only mentioned fleetingly throughout the story. For a surgery that seems almost unimaginable for people at the time, most other characters seem remarkably unfazed by this man with metal hands.
Nonetheless, my curiosity about these matters is only testament to Gardener's ability to tell an interesting and enjoyable tale. William Kidd is a character strong enough for a sequel but I personally would love to see a prequel first!
Either way, I will look forward to William Kidd's next outing.
William Kidd, the hero of the tale, comes across as a 16th century Indiana Jones, constantly on the move trying to evade his pursuers and avoid betrayal in his search for an ancient and holy relic.
Gardner succeeds excellently at creating a quick-paced, enjoyable tale as the protagonist swiftly moves from one exotic location to another, from Florence to Tunis, Beirut, Damascus and Cyprus to name a few before returning to Rome. The dialogue is sharp and the conversation never dwells for long before the next step in the adventure.
However, this is also the one drawback in Gardener's story. He creates a number of wonderfully interesting characters but never stops to really tell us more about them. William Kidd's history in the English Secret Service (and the service itself, spymasters being a particular curiosity at the time), his sinister rival, his old, now-mad friend and a samurai-trained monk are just a few of the intriguing elements of the story I would like to have known more about. Even the unique idea of having his hans encased in iron is one that truly catches the attention of the reader but is only mentioned fleetingly throughout the story. For a surgery that seems almost unimaginable for people at the time, most other characters seem remarkably unfazed by this man with metal hands.
Nonetheless, my curiosity about these matters is only testament to Gardener's ability to tell an interesting and enjoyable tale. William Kidd is a character strong enough for a sequel but I personally would love to see a prequel first!
Either way, I will look forward to William Kidd's next outing.
March 14, 2014
Iron William and the Carpenter’s Tears by Michael Gardner is a historical adventure about a mercenary, “Iron” William Kidd, and his undertakings to find a religious artifact.
William is a retired elite agent of the King of England who is commissioned by a Vatican Cardinal bent on securing the tears that Christ shed at Lazarus’s tomb. This priceless relic is a magnificent blue gem that gives its bearer good health and centuries-long life. Other parties also seek the Tears, and Gardner’s story is a breathless account of William’s quick thinking and cunning tricks to get the prize for his employer.
He meets up with a former colleague, Flint, who has suffered bouts of madness since a skirmish that dealt Flint a blow to the head and William saving his life. William also befriends Harissa, a galleon captain with a surprising past. William has a desperate fight with another Tears seeker that leaves him seriously maimed and unable to hold a sword or pistol.
The story is a satisfying adventure involving a likable William. Despite his sometimes-ruthless profession, he has a conscience. The unpredictable story drew me in, and I could not wait to see what happened next. Gardner has a knack for writing fight scenes that amp up the tension without turning into a blow-by-blow thump fest. Excellent scene descriptions, too. At times the evocative desert passages with its searing sun and thick heat made me reach for my water glass.
Iron William and the Carpenter’s Tears is an absorbing and well-written tale. I recommend it for adventure fans that enjoy stories about treasure seekers. I purchased a copy of this book.
William is a retired elite agent of the King of England who is commissioned by a Vatican Cardinal bent on securing the tears that Christ shed at Lazarus’s tomb. This priceless relic is a magnificent blue gem that gives its bearer good health and centuries-long life. Other parties also seek the Tears, and Gardner’s story is a breathless account of William’s quick thinking and cunning tricks to get the prize for his employer.
He meets up with a former colleague, Flint, who has suffered bouts of madness since a skirmish that dealt Flint a blow to the head and William saving his life. William also befriends Harissa, a galleon captain with a surprising past. William has a desperate fight with another Tears seeker that leaves him seriously maimed and unable to hold a sword or pistol.
The story is a satisfying adventure involving a likable William. Despite his sometimes-ruthless profession, he has a conscience. The unpredictable story drew me in, and I could not wait to see what happened next. Gardner has a knack for writing fight scenes that amp up the tension without turning into a blow-by-blow thump fest. Excellent scene descriptions, too. At times the evocative desert passages with its searing sun and thick heat made me reach for my water glass.
Iron William and the Carpenter’s Tears is an absorbing and well-written tale. I recommend it for adventure fans that enjoy stories about treasure seekers. I purchased a copy of this book.
December 27, 2013
I really enjoyed this book a lot. Set in the Renaissance, it is an action-packed swashbuckler with plenty of good plot twists and intrigue. The story's central character is an agent who once served his king (Henry VIII), and now finds himself drafted into the service of the church. The way he is developed and plays throughout the story has a timelessness about him, he could easily be James Bond or Sam Spade. But this is a very different world, and he is beset with the challenges and decisions imposed by his era. After nearly losing his hands in a battle in which he is accused of burning a church, he is now fixed with a new set of metal hands to use on his new mission: to find the legendary "Tears of Christ". But he is not alone in the quest, and other countries have their own missions to seek the prize. I won't spoil the plot by telling how it all unfolds, but I can say that it is a well told story with good surprises and a lot of fun action. Well researched and thought out, I had a good time reading it. I am very partial to stories like this but, even if you're not a history buff, this book is still highly recommended.
September 12, 2014
The scene is set during the reign of King Henry VIII. The English, French, Spanish and Roman Monarchies are at war with one another. The Church demands sovereignty over all nations, including Turks and the Holy Lands.
Mixed up in all this is Iron William Kidd, a freelance spy with extraordinary qualities. His quest is to outmanoeuvre these warring factions and restore the mystical Carpenter's Tears to the Vatican, a task that seems impossible.
This story brings to mind Treasure Island and James Bond, a powerful and engaging combination. On top of that, Michael Gardner's prose seethes with so much energy I worried my e-reader would melt!
This is one of those undiscovered books that belong at the top of all best-seller lists. If you enjoy high adventure, read it. You'll be glad you did.
Mixed up in all this is Iron William Kidd, a freelance spy with extraordinary qualities. His quest is to outmanoeuvre these warring factions and restore the mystical Carpenter's Tears to the Vatican, a task that seems impossible.
This story brings to mind Treasure Island and James Bond, a powerful and engaging combination. On top of that, Michael Gardner's prose seethes with so much energy I worried my e-reader would melt!
This is one of those undiscovered books that belong at the top of all best-seller lists. If you enjoy high adventure, read it. You'll be glad you did.
November 3, 2018
What the …?
A 16th century proto-cyborg, part Bond, part Indie Jones? What makes Gardener's tale so impressive isn't just his bold imagination, but the fact that he can make such an outlandish character feel so authentic and lived-in. Great settings, lively pacing, convincing historical details; this book works on so many levels. And I especially enjoyed the fact that William Kidd is a warrior with a conscience, one who strives to walk the hero's path, while showing mercy to his foes. Highly recommended.
A 16th century proto-cyborg, part Bond, part Indie Jones? What makes Gardener's tale so impressive isn't just his bold imagination, but the fact that he can make such an outlandish character feel so authentic and lived-in. Great settings, lively pacing, convincing historical details; this book works on so many levels. And I especially enjoyed the fact that William Kidd is a warrior with a conscience, one who strives to walk the hero's path, while showing mercy to his foes. Highly recommended.
December 14, 2014
Rousing historical adventure!
'Iron William' Kidd, who acquires the apt soubriquet in this story, has a mission impossible thrust upon him. It's not his fault, but neither does he have any choice, not if he wants to live - and the Church of Rome would make a deadly enemy. Although the story is fiction it is set in the competently replicated historical period of the Reformation, in the mid-16th Century. The action takes place in Mediterranean Europe, in fact across most of it, from one end to the other and half-way back again.
There are a number of clearly defined characters in this book, in addition to Kidd himself, both friends and enemies. Kidd is particularly well done, and the main characters are all well drawn. William Kidd has an arch-enemy in Hamilton Rush and the dearest desire of each is to see the other dead, by fair means or foul. Pages turn easily, the pace accelerating nicely towards the brilliant conclusion.
Somewhat reminiscent of Sam Llewellyn's 'Gurney' books, from the reader's perspective Iron William's adventures are as fun-filled and action packed as those of any Tomb Raider or Indiana Jones. On land or at sea the crises are relentless, and William must dig deep to find in himself the resources to be true to himself, whatever the cost. Strongly recommended to anyone who enjoys a rousing historical adventure.
'Iron William' Kidd, who acquires the apt soubriquet in this story, has a mission impossible thrust upon him. It's not his fault, but neither does he have any choice, not if he wants to live - and the Church of Rome would make a deadly enemy. Although the story is fiction it is set in the competently replicated historical period of the Reformation, in the mid-16th Century. The action takes place in Mediterranean Europe, in fact across most of it, from one end to the other and half-way back again.
There are a number of clearly defined characters in this book, in addition to Kidd himself, both friends and enemies. Kidd is particularly well done, and the main characters are all well drawn. William Kidd has an arch-enemy in Hamilton Rush and the dearest desire of each is to see the other dead, by fair means or foul. Pages turn easily, the pace accelerating nicely towards the brilliant conclusion.
Somewhat reminiscent of Sam Llewellyn's 'Gurney' books, from the reader's perspective Iron William's adventures are as fun-filled and action packed as those of any Tomb Raider or Indiana Jones. On land or at sea the crises are relentless, and William must dig deep to find in himself the resources to be true to himself, whatever the cost. Strongly recommended to anyone who enjoys a rousing historical adventure.
September 1, 2013
Absolutely brilliant. After I finished it, I immediately went back to check if there was a sequel, but I was sadly disappointed.
Throughout the entire adventure, set in the time of Henry VIII, the main character, William Kidd, had me captivated. Neither a saint nor a villain, Gardner constructed his character so well it's hard to believe the book is fiction.
What gave it away were a few skilfully placed touches that made me wonder. I highly doubt that a gladiator in Henry VIII's time would ever be asked to sign a disclaimer, as Kidd was.
The wonderful characterisation flowed through into the rest of the cast, too. My personal favourite was Harissa, an amazing female character who managed to hold her own in the patriarchal society of the time – without having to seduce every man in sight, either. Admittedly, I did wonder if she was going to…but I won't spoil the story for anyone who hasn't read it. For if you haven't, I highly recommend that you do.
Just in case I sound like too much of a fangirl, I must admit I received a free copy of this book for an honest, non-reciprocal review. Yet after I finished it and before I wrote this review, I bought a copy of the book as a gift for someone else.
Throughout the entire adventure, set in the time of Henry VIII, the main character, William Kidd, had me captivated. Neither a saint nor a villain, Gardner constructed his character so well it's hard to believe the book is fiction.
What gave it away were a few skilfully placed touches that made me wonder. I highly doubt that a gladiator in Henry VIII's time would ever be asked to sign a disclaimer, as Kidd was.
The wonderful characterisation flowed through into the rest of the cast, too. My personal favourite was Harissa, an amazing female character who managed to hold her own in the patriarchal society of the time – without having to seduce every man in sight, either. Admittedly, I did wonder if she was going to…but I won't spoil the story for anyone who hasn't read it. For if you haven't, I highly recommend that you do.
Just in case I sound like too much of a fangirl, I must admit I received a free copy of this book for an honest, non-reciprocal review. Yet after I finished it and before I wrote this review, I bought a copy of the book as a gift for someone else.
December 1, 2013
For a book about a frantic search across Southern Europe in the middle of the 16th century for Jesus' lost tears, I was surprised at how well Iron William and the Carpenter's Tears held my attention. William Kidd is a roguish miscreant who's always in some sort of trouble, and his main cohort throughout the story, Flint, is a serious bruiser who knows how to throw a punch. Between the two of them, they drive the action throughout a story full of hair-raising escapes, some nice revelations, and some intimidating Ottoman villains.
Perhaps it's a bit unfair to compare this kind of religious quest with mythical intonations to a classic like Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade, but I certainly had that story in my mind as I was reading. I think the concept was inventive enough, but I did find myself impatient to get on with the story at a few points. If you're the kind of reader who likes a great deal of depth, you'll have no problem. My personal preference is for a story that's a little more brisk. That said, there's plenty of payoff at the end, and I certainly don't regret the time I put in reading.
This would make a great addition to the collection of a historical buff or even medieval fantasy fans looking for non-stop action.
Perhaps it's a bit unfair to compare this kind of religious quest with mythical intonations to a classic like Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade, but I certainly had that story in my mind as I was reading. I think the concept was inventive enough, but I did find myself impatient to get on with the story at a few points. If you're the kind of reader who likes a great deal of depth, you'll have no problem. My personal preference is for a story that's a little more brisk. That said, there's plenty of payoff at the end, and I certainly don't regret the time I put in reading.
This would make a great addition to the collection of a historical buff or even medieval fantasy fans looking for non-stop action.
August 12, 2013
Keep our friends close, but keep our enemies closer but what if you don't know who is your friend and who is your enemy. Iron William Kidd had this very same problem. After failing a mission, not only was his reputation scared but his body too. Not only does Kidd have to rebuild his reputation but he must change his fighting style to accumedate his physical scares. As Kidd recovers from his injuries at a friend's house, the church force him on another mission to recover the tears of Christ. Little did Kidd know who he would meet on the way, and those he thought he knew their true loyalties.
Iron William and the Carpenters Tears is a novel for those who enjoy adventure set after the Crusades.
Personally I enjoyed the adventure, and the twists and turns that Michael Gardner incooperated in his hero's journey. Make sure if you pay attention to the details, or you may get lost along the way.
Iron William and the Carpenters Tears is a novel for those who enjoy adventure set after the Crusades.
Personally I enjoyed the adventure, and the twists and turns that Michael Gardner incooperated in his hero's journey. Make sure if you pay attention to the details, or you may get lost along the way.
August 6, 2013
I received a copy of this book as part of a Goodreads Giveaway.
Overall, I really enjoyed the book. The characters are likeable, the plot is quite interesting and there are always more twists and turns awaiting the next chapter. As I got further into the book, I realized I didn't want to put it down. I found it quite gripping and very enjoyable.
When I first started reading the first chapter, I was a bit apprehensive as I found it hard to get into. However, as soon as I got into the second chapter I was hooked. Based on how the book ended, I am hoping to see more from Michael Gardner and the adventures of Iron William, as it has the potential to be a series I would gladly follow.
Overall, I really enjoyed the book. The characters are likeable, the plot is quite interesting and there are always more twists and turns awaiting the next chapter. As I got further into the book, I realized I didn't want to put it down. I found it quite gripping and very enjoyable.
When I first started reading the first chapter, I was a bit apprehensive as I found it hard to get into. However, as soon as I got into the second chapter I was hooked. Based on how the book ended, I am hoping to see more from Michael Gardner and the adventures of Iron William, as it has the potential to be a series I would gladly follow.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 12, 2015
A fun, fast-paced adventure. Michael Gardner hits the ground running and never lets up speed. He's created a memorable character with Iron William Kidd, a former spy for Henry VIII who must take on a mission for the Vatican or face certain death.
There's an almost Indiana Jones quality to the tale, which means I enjoyed it very much. Rivalry, potential romance, betrayal, and a quest for a powerful religious artifact. There's even a snake. As well as great action scenes and a very satisfying ending.
Iron William lives up to his moniker. He's a great character with interesting enemies. I'm looking forward to meeting more of them.
There's an almost Indiana Jones quality to the tale, which means I enjoyed it very much. Rivalry, potential romance, betrayal, and a quest for a powerful religious artifact. There's even a snake. As well as great action scenes and a very satisfying ending.
Iron William lives up to his moniker. He's a great character with interesting enemies. I'm looking forward to meeting more of them.
January 31, 2014
A delightful fantasy-adventure set in 16th century Mediterranean Europe following the hazardous exploits of Henry VIII's former henchman, William Kidd. While the events in the book are fictional I also learned a good deal of history along the way. There is real momentum and a number of surprises hidden in unexpected corners. I found myself forming quite a connection with the key characters. The protagonists are flawed (but not as much as the antagonists), making them all the more believable and relatable. I'll be looking forward to Michael Gardner's next work.
December 28, 2015
I'll be honest I was frustrated and mad at myself for getting a book in the middle of series. This is something that I hate doing and personal pet peeve of mine. I struggled from the beginning to get into the book and seriously considered DNF'ing it which is something I can't seem to be able to do. Any way as I continued to read the book I found that it finally found it's voice around 75 page mark for me. I'm glad that I stuck with reading the book or I would have missed out on an interesting story.
July 19, 2013
An excellent yarn and a great debut! Characters are well characterised and the storyline is a really good mix of adventure and mystery. One of those 'unputdownable' stories that has you wondering what comes next. I look forward to future volumes in the Iron Will series. Its amazing what can come out of a bit of office fun and pirate banter :-) xx Mad Tom
November 23, 2013
This is the first novel I have read to the very end in what must be almost ten years, and I thoroughly enjoyed it. It's a brilliant well researched story with great characters and some unexpected twists.
February 17, 2015
Picked this up after reading Iron William and the Lost Prophicy and it lived up to the promise.
A very fun and interesting tale with lots of action and a bit of James Bond that ends with me waiting for how the next part William's journey shapes up.
A very fun and interesting tale with lots of action and a bit of James Bond that ends with me waiting for how the next part William's journey shapes up.
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