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Delphic Division #2
Clockwork City
Cop. Drunkard. Low-grade magic user.
My name is Gideon Tau, but most people just call me London. (Because that's where I'm from. Get it? Hilarious.)
Three years ago, someone killed my daughter. I sacrificed everything (the human race included) to learn his name - and then had to allow that knowledge to be erased from my mind in order to save the world I'd doomed. Fantastic.
Now I have to start over from scratch, and who do I have to help me find my daughter's killer? The reanimated corpse of my boss, a low-rent P.I. who's heavily into conspiracy theories, and my alcoholic, foul-mouthed demonic sidekick dog.
Our journey will take us from Durban, South Africa to London, England, where we'll have to contend with Fae gangs fighting for territory, the murder-suicide of two Delphic agents and the seven deadly sins.
Oh, and did I mention planning a heist to break into the most secure bank in Faerie? Because that's on the agenda too. And if we fail? An ancient horned god will destroy London. (The city, not me. Although, to be fair, I don't think I'll survive either)
320 pages, Kindle Edition
First published December 14, 2017
2 people are currently reading
156 people want to read
About the author
Paul Crilley
51 books203 followersPaul Crilley (who also writes thrillers under the pseudonym Paul Herron) has been writing professionally for the past 20 years. In that time, he has worked on over twenty-seven television shows - one of which was nominated for an iEmmy - as a head-writer, writer, script editor, and story-liner.
His Delphic Division series, Poison City and the sequel Clockwork City, (written as Paul Crilley), about a supernatural police force based in Durban, South Africa, is in development as a television series with Jerry Bruckheimer Productions and CBS. Paul worked on the Bioware MMO, Star Wars: The Old Republic and has also written comics for IDW, (most notably, Star Wars Adventures, and The X-Files)
Over the years, Paul has worked with Marvel, 20th Century Fox Television, NBC Universal, Anonymous Content, Krysten Ritter’s production company Silent Machine, Disney, the SyFy Channel, and IDW comics. He has written twelve novels, worked on five computer games, and also novelized Frank Miller’s seminal graphic novel, Daredevil: The Man Without Fear for Marvel.
His new thriller Breakout, (written as Paul Herron), comes out in 2021 from Headline (UK) and Grand Central Press (US).
His Delphic Division series, Poison City and the sequel Clockwork City, (written as Paul Crilley), about a supernatural police force based in Durban, South Africa, is in development as a television series with Jerry Bruckheimer Productions and CBS. Paul worked on the Bioware MMO, Star Wars: The Old Republic and has also written comics for IDW, (most notably, Star Wars Adventures, and The X-Files)
Over the years, Paul has worked with Marvel, 20th Century Fox Television, NBC Universal, Anonymous Content, Krysten Ritter’s production company Silent Machine, Disney, the SyFy Channel, and IDW comics. He has written twelve novels, worked on five computer games, and also novelized Frank Miller’s seminal graphic novel, Daredevil: The Man Without Fear for Marvel.
His new thriller Breakout, (written as Paul Herron), comes out in 2021 from Headline (UK) and Grand Central Press (US).
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 41 reviews
July 26, 2022
A return to a Dresdenesque world where the first book was set in South Africa although the leading protagonist was from London. And actually, this is where this story ends up after the opening prologue.
Monsters & ghouls aplenty right from the off along with a talking dog who can also communicate from mind to mind…. Well he is is a spirit guide…. So that makes it alright then 😊
Its great to have a different than normal (western) setting so this includes monsters/demons from African folklore which bring a certain nuance to the tale. There is also an environmental/eco fae angle to this too which makes it topical into today’s era.
Its an enjoyable romp for the most part, that includes, shoot em ups, a bank heist, assassinations & a save London theme……
However, I must say it fizzled out like a bit of a damp squib, almost like the author gave up on it jus past what coulda been the half-way point & jus rushed it to a conclusion to finish the project, which so happened to be this 2 book series. Character development jus didn’t happen in this book, in what was quite a promising array of characters that deserved a bit more to be honest.
3 Stars in what turned out to be quite disappointing after a bright start, showed so much promise too which makes it doubly hard to fathom.
Monsters & ghouls aplenty right from the off along with a talking dog who can also communicate from mind to mind…. Well he is is a spirit guide…. So that makes it alright then 😊
Its great to have a different than normal (western) setting so this includes monsters/demons from African folklore which bring a certain nuance to the tale. There is also an environmental/eco fae angle to this too which makes it topical into today’s era.
Its an enjoyable romp for the most part, that includes, shoot em ups, a bank heist, assassinations & a save London theme……
However, I must say it fizzled out like a bit of a damp squib, almost like the author gave up on it jus past what coulda been the half-way point & jus rushed it to a conclusion to finish the project, which so happened to be this 2 book series. Character development jus didn’t happen in this book, in what was quite a promising array of characters that deserved a bit more to be honest.
3 Stars in what turned out to be quite disappointing after a bright start, showed so much promise too which makes it doubly hard to fathom.
March 30, 2018
Loved this more than the 1st. We get exposed to more of the world and most of the plot takes place in London (UK) (not the character). I love the dog. The dialogue is witty/snappy so much fun. The plot is intriguing and ends with a cool plot direction. There is action a plenty, I especially loved the scene where London gets to the weapons cabinet in the UK divisions building...so much fun. For any Urban Fantasy reader this is a must. The author requires so much more attention. Highly recommended!! I hope the 3rd comes out sooner that the wait between the previous books.
July 12, 2018
'Clockwork City' is the second book in the Delphic Division series by Paul Crilley and is a vast improvement to the first book, 'Poison City'. It is rather an insane novel as was the first, and follows Gideon Tau, also known as London, on his journey working for the occult investigative service for the South African police. On his travels, he is joined by his partners from the series opener, the alcoholic talking dog, and his boss, Armitage, together they are ready to embark on a case involving more demons and detities as well as faerie gangs who control the city's underworld.
This is a mix of a variety of genres as in the previous book - crime thriller, horror, fantasy, and science fiction, you may be forgiven for assuming that this sort of book wouldn't work, but it does. It's a given that everythings rather chaotic and more than a little manic but that is part of its charm. That said, this novel suffers from one big issue I had with the first one - there is simply too much happening. I read to relax and found it hard to do that with this book. I feel that if the author pulled back a little on this urge to constantly pump the plot full of action, he could be on to a winner.
They say that there is a fine line between being a madman and being a genius - I would say that Crilley certainly writes like a genius. I look forward to his next book, he is unique in a world full of imitations and that holds value for me.
Many thanks to Hodder Paperbacks for an ARC. I was not required to post a review and all thoughts and opinions expressed are my own.
This is a mix of a variety of genres as in the previous book - crime thriller, horror, fantasy, and science fiction, you may be forgiven for assuming that this sort of book wouldn't work, but it does. It's a given that everythings rather chaotic and more than a little manic but that is part of its charm. That said, this novel suffers from one big issue I had with the first one - there is simply too much happening. I read to relax and found it hard to do that with this book. I feel that if the author pulled back a little on this urge to constantly pump the plot full of action, he could be on to a winner.
They say that there is a fine line between being a madman and being a genius - I would say that Crilley certainly writes like a genius. I look forward to his next book, he is unique in a world full of imitations and that holds value for me.
Many thanks to Hodder Paperbacks for an ARC. I was not required to post a review and all thoughts and opinions expressed are my own.
April 28, 2018
I received a free digital copy of this book from the publishers/author via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Clockwork City is the sequel to Poison City, and follows supernatural detective Gideon Tau aka London, and his spiritual guide Dog as they continue to unravel the mystery behind the disappearance of London’s daughter three years prior.
I really enjoyed my reading of this book, and I think I definitely enjoyed it more than the first book. I’m not sure if it’s that I just was able to adapt to the world quicker because I already knew it, though I definitely needed a few chapters to refresh my memory of the first, or that the story just worked better for me, but I few through this one.
This story was really action-packed and I honestly didn’t know where to turn because poor London just wasn’t getting a break in either direction. There were some times where I wondered if there was any hope left because there were times that it seemed like everyone was just dying but I loved how the conclusion all wrapped up. I love that this series is so dark but really humorous as well, but it also has a lot of heart to it - like the tender relationship between Armitage and London, and how even the dog shows how much he cares for London and Cally on occasion as well.
I liked the addition of characters like Winters and Mother London as well - and I think the embodiment of cities in that way like Mother London and Mother Durban is genius.
I feel like the ending was a bit fast for me, and I’m also not really decided on what I think actually happened (apart from The Raven King bit). I don’t know if there will be another book but I hope there is, as I’m done with London and the Delphic Division yet.
Clockwork City is the sequel to Poison City, and follows supernatural detective Gideon Tau aka London, and his spiritual guide Dog as they continue to unravel the mystery behind the disappearance of London’s daughter three years prior.
I really enjoyed my reading of this book, and I think I definitely enjoyed it more than the first book. I’m not sure if it’s that I just was able to adapt to the world quicker because I already knew it, though I definitely needed a few chapters to refresh my memory of the first, or that the story just worked better for me, but I few through this one.
This story was really action-packed and I honestly didn’t know where to turn because poor London just wasn’t getting a break in either direction. There were some times where I wondered if there was any hope left because there were times that it seemed like everyone was just dying but I loved how the conclusion all wrapped up. I love that this series is so dark but really humorous as well, but it also has a lot of heart to it - like the tender relationship between Armitage and London, and how even the dog shows how much he cares for London and Cally on occasion as well.
I liked the addition of characters like Winters and Mother London as well - and I think the embodiment of cities in that way like Mother London and Mother Durban is genius.
I feel like the ending was a bit fast for me, and I’m also not really decided on what I think actually happened (apart from The Raven King bit). I don’t know if there will be another book but I hope there is, as I’m done with London and the Delphic Division yet.
November 25, 2017
I LOVED Poison City the first novel in the “Delphic Division” series from Paul Crilley – but now I’ve read Clockwork City and I loved that more. MORE. It was pure, utter brilliance.
Fiendishly funny, yet incredibly dark, Paul Crilley is the king of dastardly dialogue and brilliantly awe inspiring action, all tempered with an emotional core that really digs into your heart. Clockwork City is fast and furious, set in a world where a wary peace is kept between humans and others by the Delphic Division – a force for good or, erm, a kind of rash and random group of people who do their godarn best.
We follow Gideon (more commonly known as London because that’s where he’s from, clever huh?) and his Dog (Oh Dog please come and live with me) plus some usual suspects from Poison City and a few new faces as they attempt to save actual London from a rather nasty looking doom. A missing oracle, some nefarious Faeries, a city in magical mayhem and an attempt to open a jail that really should stay shut are all in the mix here and it is beautiful, madly addictive, incredibly well written chaos.
The characters pop from the page, they are all so brilliantly drawn, I especially adore Armitage, but Gideon Tau is a truly remarkable creation, with his quest to find his daughter whilst trying not to destroy the world in the process . That theme continues in Clockwork City, all interspersed with the current big problem, some foreshadowing and an ending that made me practically leap from my seat – YOU CAN’T DO THAT – but yeah he just did, so my loyalty to this particular series is now solidly set – please don’t make me wait too long for more I shall get incredibly grumpy.
Creative, hilarious and dastardly – that is Clockwork City. Don’t miss it.
Highly Recommended.
Fiendishly funny, yet incredibly dark, Paul Crilley is the king of dastardly dialogue and brilliantly awe inspiring action, all tempered with an emotional core that really digs into your heart. Clockwork City is fast and furious, set in a world where a wary peace is kept between humans and others by the Delphic Division – a force for good or, erm, a kind of rash and random group of people who do their godarn best.
We follow Gideon (more commonly known as London because that’s where he’s from, clever huh?) and his Dog (Oh Dog please come and live with me) plus some usual suspects from Poison City and a few new faces as they attempt to save actual London from a rather nasty looking doom. A missing oracle, some nefarious Faeries, a city in magical mayhem and an attempt to open a jail that really should stay shut are all in the mix here and it is beautiful, madly addictive, incredibly well written chaos.
The characters pop from the page, they are all so brilliantly drawn, I especially adore Armitage, but Gideon Tau is a truly remarkable creation, with his quest to find his daughter whilst trying not to destroy the world in the process . That theme continues in Clockwork City, all interspersed with the current big problem, some foreshadowing and an ending that made me practically leap from my seat – YOU CAN’T DO THAT – but yeah he just did, so my loyalty to this particular series is now solidly set – please don’t make me wait too long for more I shall get incredibly grumpy.
Creative, hilarious and dastardly – that is Clockwork City. Don’t miss it.
Highly Recommended.
January 26, 2019
I am loving these books. London is often set upon by vicious monsters but he has an equally vicious set of supernatural friends that results in a lot of blood shed. He still ends up dashing around to save the world on behalf of demi-gods who don't actually give him a choice in the matter. His spirit guide dog may help but only if London buys him a drink and puts his Christmas selection on the radio. I can recommend the audio book version which is very well read.
November 13, 2017
I enjoyed this, as I did the previous book. It is adult stuff with violence and extreme humour and it is a little bonkers but I have to say I enjoyed it.
Average magician with foul mouthed spirit guide dog are really up against it. Working for an organisation that tries to keep the peace between humans and “others” an investigation goes wrong and ends up being centred on London. A hidden London about to be swamped by the bad stuff unless the team from South Africa can help push back the flow of evil. A bank heist in the land of The Fae might be the only way to save London and the world, but Oceans Eleven this ain’t.
This is great fun, doesn’t take itself seriously, mad at times, but always entertaining. Ends on a cliff-hanger and I need the next book to see where this is going!
Average magician with foul mouthed spirit guide dog are really up against it. Working for an organisation that tries to keep the peace between humans and “others” an investigation goes wrong and ends up being centred on London. A hidden London about to be swamped by the bad stuff unless the team from South Africa can help push back the flow of evil. A bank heist in the land of The Fae might be the only way to save London and the world, but Oceans Eleven this ain’t.
This is great fun, doesn’t take itself seriously, mad at times, but always entertaining. Ends on a cliff-hanger and I need the next book to see where this is going!
March 6, 2018
Should I be more worried if I identify myself with a guy who really doesn't give a **** about himself or more that I can also identify with a sarcastic alcoholic talking dog?
November 6, 2018
I enjoyed this even better than the first one. Can't wait for more
January 10, 2019
Still good entertainment, but I enjoyed the first one more.
April 30, 2021
London's about to be overrun by the fae mafia and the protagonist, his revenant boss, and the smartass of a canine go there to sort things out. It's pretty much all action, with the heist around a fae bank thrown in. I liked this book more because the dog seemed less annoying -- or maybe he has grown on me. The setting for this sequel turned out to be London, which was jarring for a bit. But then I recovered.
I also liked the fact that the hero has to face the consequences of his actions from the first book. He'd messed up and now he was going to have to clean up that mess!
If you want action, magic, and knights made of stone fighting the seven sins, this is the book for you!
March 4, 2018
Okay, so. A little while ago I read the first book in this series and reviewed it (https://miriamjoyreads.wordpress.com/...). I liked the book, but I had a few issues with it on a theological level, since it brought Actual God into the equation and I always find that a dodgy proposition. I was hoping that, since book two focused on the fae and other things that I enjoy without having any sort of religious investment in, I would like it more.
However... I didn't. I should have done. Objectively, it contained a number of things that are usually winners in my book, not least creepy fairies. Okay, so one or two things would have annoyed me at the best of times. For example, there's a reference at one point to carved writing that the character identifies either as Scandinavian runes or Ogham. Those two things look nothing alike -- and if you can't tell the difference between runes and Ogham, you're probably not even going to recognise Ogham as writing in the first place. And the use of "Celtic" gods is kind of weird, and I'm fussy about that, so you know. Maybe I'd have had issues even on a good day. BUT those are minor annoyances, you know? No big deal.
And the book has a lot going for it. There's a great twist at the end, a really heartwrenching one, that ought to have blown me away. The characters' arcs are interesting and emotional and the plot has plenty of exciting turns. But I almost missed that twist altogether, because I put the book down with 8% left to go and then didn't pick it up again for a week.
The thing is: I don't know why.
I don't know why I was able to put this book aside at 92% and then almost abandon it completely. I don't know why it was only a sense of duty born of having it as an ARC that made me pick it up again. I don't know why I didn't connect with it on any emotional level whatsoever -- because I should have done!
And yet, I didn't.
Maybe I'm just in a reading slump and it's not the fault of the book at all. That's definitely possible. I've been ill, I'm tired, I've hardly been reading the last couple of weeks... perhaps this book just suffered from timing.
Or maybe it was the book. There were a few occasions where I felt it dragged, and then suddenly there'd be an explosion of action that would catch me off guard because I'd been lulled into inattention, meaning it was sometimes a struggle to get my brain back in gear quickly enough to figure out what was going on. But again, maybe that was just me. Maybe my brain was too sluggish this week.
I don't know. But something about it just did not work for me, and I'm annoyed by that, because it should have done.
However... I didn't. I should have done. Objectively, it contained a number of things that are usually winners in my book, not least creepy fairies. Okay, so one or two things would have annoyed me at the best of times. For example, there's a reference at one point to carved writing that the character identifies either as Scandinavian runes or Ogham. Those two things look nothing alike -- and if you can't tell the difference between runes and Ogham, you're probably not even going to recognise Ogham as writing in the first place. And the use of "Celtic" gods is kind of weird, and I'm fussy about that, so you know. Maybe I'd have had issues even on a good day. BUT those are minor annoyances, you know? No big deal.
And the book has a lot going for it. There's a great twist at the end, a really heartwrenching one, that ought to have blown me away. The characters' arcs are interesting and emotional and the plot has plenty of exciting turns. But I almost missed that twist altogether, because I put the book down with 8% left to go and then didn't pick it up again for a week.
The thing is: I don't know why.
I don't know why I was able to put this book aside at 92% and then almost abandon it completely. I don't know why it was only a sense of duty born of having it as an ARC that made me pick it up again. I don't know why I didn't connect with it on any emotional level whatsoever -- because I should have done!
And yet, I didn't.
Maybe I'm just in a reading slump and it's not the fault of the book at all. That's definitely possible. I've been ill, I'm tired, I've hardly been reading the last couple of weeks... perhaps this book just suffered from timing.
Or maybe it was the book. There were a few occasions where I felt it dragged, and then suddenly there'd be an explosion of action that would catch me off guard because I'd been lulled into inattention, meaning it was sometimes a struggle to get my brain back in gear quickly enough to figure out what was going on. But again, maybe that was just me. Maybe my brain was too sluggish this week.
I don't know. But something about it just did not work for me, and I'm annoyed by that, because it should have done.
October 13, 2018
I really enjoyed the first book in this series, and for some bizarre reason had forgotten I had this sitting in my TBR pile. 😬
This week, I decided it was time to get back into London's strange and dangerous world.
After London--aka Gideon Tau--discovered the name of the one responsible for killing his daughter, he was forced to forget in order to save the world. But what he didn't forget was that his daughter wasn't killed, but taken. And that she's still alive.
So every time he's on a case for the Delphic Division, his need to find Cally is first and foremost on his mind. However, when he ends up going to London (the actual city) he'll have to deal with the Fae gangs ruling the place, solving a murder-suicide, an Oracle, and the Seven Deadly Sins.
But with London under siege by crazies determined to unleash an old god, his team will have to venture into Faerie to perform an impossible heist. One that will either save, or destroy the human world...
Okay. Like I mentioned above, I enjoyed the first book. A lot. So it pains me to admit that this one disappointed me.
I pretty much loved every minute of the first half of this book because the characters are cool, the magic world is intriguing and the supernatural cases are interesting. But when I got to the heist in Faerie, everything fell apart.
There were too many POVs added, some bits that didn't make sense--the story was all over the place. The more I read about the team's time in Faerie, the less I felt invested in what was happening and even how it would turn out.
There were a few twists and turns I liked, but the fact so much is left up in the air and there's no clear indication if there will be more books in the series, made the ending not so sweet.
Clockwork City is an action-packed urban fantasy book and packs quite a punch. It managed to hook me in from the beginning, dragged me around into the middle because I wanted to see where everything would lead, and even kept me interested past that. It wasn't until the heist section that my interest crumbled.
After that, it was hard to stay invested. It's a shame when that happens, but what can you do? I'm still glad I read this.
This week, I decided it was time to get back into London's strange and dangerous world.
After London--aka Gideon Tau--discovered the name of the one responsible for killing his daughter, he was forced to forget in order to save the world. But what he didn't forget was that his daughter wasn't killed, but taken. And that she's still alive.
So every time he's on a case for the Delphic Division, his need to find Cally is first and foremost on his mind. However, when he ends up going to London (the actual city) he'll have to deal with the Fae gangs ruling the place, solving a murder-suicide, an Oracle, and the Seven Deadly Sins.
But with London under siege by crazies determined to unleash an old god, his team will have to venture into Faerie to perform an impossible heist. One that will either save, or destroy the human world...
Okay. Like I mentioned above, I enjoyed the first book. A lot. So it pains me to admit that this one disappointed me.
I pretty much loved every minute of the first half of this book because the characters are cool, the magic world is intriguing and the supernatural cases are interesting. But when I got to the heist in Faerie, everything fell apart.
There were too many POVs added, some bits that didn't make sense--the story was all over the place. The more I read about the team's time in Faerie, the less I felt invested in what was happening and even how it would turn out.
There were a few twists and turns I liked, but the fact so much is left up in the air and there's no clear indication if there will be more books in the series, made the ending not so sweet.
Clockwork City is an action-packed urban fantasy book and packs quite a punch. It managed to hook me in from the beginning, dragged me around into the middle because I wanted to see where everything would lead, and even kept me interested past that. It wasn't until the heist section that my interest crumbled.
After that, it was hard to stay invested. It's a shame when that happens, but what can you do? I'm still glad I read this.
August 26, 2018
Eh. It's better than the first one, it's still not very good though. Crilley has a severe problem with pacing and level of peril, and because of that, none of the conflicts seem particularly meaningful or interesting. Not one which I can recommend.
There is a note at the end suggesting that there may be a TV series of the first book, however, which I think would work quite well.
There is a note at the end suggesting that there may be a TV series of the first book, however, which I think would work quite well.
February 19, 2018
Gideon Tau (London) and 'Dog' are in Cape Town, South Africa on the trail of child disappearances, sort of. 'Dog' has London's back, sort of.
'Dog' is London's spirit guide, he's a Border Terrier! with attitude.
After Cape Town, London, 'Dog' and boss Armitage embark on a trip back to London's home town (guess where - London!).
But not before they pay a visit to one of the most, if not the most, important person in Delphic Division, although its not like they had a choice anyway, about either.
They get involved with Fae, royalty, sins(!), ancient gods and more. London hopes to find Cally, his daughter, as part of the investigation into the disappearing children. It doesn't stop here, there is much more!
Anyone who read and enjoyed Poison City will definitely want to read this. If possible, it may even be better. If you like supernatural and fantasy beings, I think you will enjoy this. If you like Border Terriers, and all the above, I'm sure that you'll love this. 'Dog' has Border Terrier attitude and then some.
London is telling the story, most of the time, it comes over well. There is cursing and swearing, which I don't usually like, but somehow it suits this book, it isn't overused (even though there is a lot of it).
I like that this book continues the story of London's search for the one who took his daughter. Initially, in Poison City, he believed her dead, but then found out that she was still alive, along with the name of the one who took her. But he gave up the information, and it has ground him down ever since.
I lived in this book the whole time I was reading it. I didn't want to write a review about it. I didn't want to have finished it already. And if I have finished it and I have written the review, then I want the next book now, please.
I received an e-ARC of this novel through NetGalley in exchange for a fair and honest review. NetGalley does not allow for paid reviews.
'Dog' is London's spirit guide, he's a Border Terrier! with attitude.
After Cape Town, London, 'Dog' and boss Armitage embark on a trip back to London's home town (guess where - London!).
But not before they pay a visit to one of the most, if not the most, important person in Delphic Division, although its not like they had a choice anyway, about either.
They get involved with Fae, royalty, sins(!), ancient gods and more. London hopes to find Cally, his daughter, as part of the investigation into the disappearing children. It doesn't stop here, there is much more!
Anyone who read and enjoyed Poison City will definitely want to read this. If possible, it may even be better. If you like supernatural and fantasy beings, I think you will enjoy this. If you like Border Terriers, and all the above, I'm sure that you'll love this. 'Dog' has Border Terrier attitude and then some.
London is telling the story, most of the time, it comes over well. There is cursing and swearing, which I don't usually like, but somehow it suits this book, it isn't overused (even though there is a lot of it).
I like that this book continues the story of London's search for the one who took his daughter. Initially, in Poison City, he believed her dead, but then found out that she was still alive, along with the name of the one who took her. But he gave up the information, and it has ground him down ever since.
I lived in this book the whole time I was reading it. I didn't want to write a review about it. I didn't want to have finished it already. And if I have finished it and I have written the review, then I want the next book now, please.
"The dog pads forward. ‘Drop me and I will unmake you.’‘You don’t have the power for that,’ I said, hooking my arm under his belly. He shifts around until he’s comfortable in the crook of my arm, his head right next to mine. ‘Try me,’ he whispers."
I received an e-ARC of this novel through NetGalley in exchange for a fair and honest review. NetGalley does not allow for paid reviews.
April 22, 2018
I loved Paul Crilley's Poison City last year. Its irreverent take on the supernatural police procedural was a breath of fresh air. Crilley has followed it up with Clockwork City (review copy from Hodderscape), a direct sequel picking up on Gideon 'London' Tau's work with the Delphic Division and his search for his missing daughter.
One of the strengths of Poison City was its South African setting, and the wide range of gods, monsters and orisha that setting enables Crilley to draw on for the book. That felt fresh and new compared to the run of urban fantasy and supernatural police procedural clogging the shelves. So setting Clockwork City in London was a bold move. I'm not sure it completely works, as it loses the USP of these books.
Dealing with the aftermath of the events of Poison City, Tau finds himself sent to London to investigate the disappearance of two Delphic Division agents. But this is a London full of Fae, walking brazenly and openly through the streets. Four competing Fae gangs between them control London and its organised crime, but the Blessed are seeking to take over. And they seem to have some connection with the disappearance of Tau's daughter.
Clockwork City is a proper romp of a crime thriller, as Tau and his foul-mouthed dog spirit guide continue to unravel the mystery of the disappearance of Tau's daughter. It's an adventure that takes them to the heart of ancient London and the alternate world of the Fae. There's a host of new characters and a glorious heist that is the supernatural equivalent of Ocean's 11. This is fantastic fun, and a worthy sequel, even if not - quite - on a par with the first book.
One of the strengths of Poison City was its South African setting, and the wide range of gods, monsters and orisha that setting enables Crilley to draw on for the book. That felt fresh and new compared to the run of urban fantasy and supernatural police procedural clogging the shelves. So setting Clockwork City in London was a bold move. I'm not sure it completely works, as it loses the USP of these books.
Dealing with the aftermath of the events of Poison City, Tau finds himself sent to London to investigate the disappearance of two Delphic Division agents. But this is a London full of Fae, walking brazenly and openly through the streets. Four competing Fae gangs between them control London and its organised crime, but the Blessed are seeking to take over. And they seem to have some connection with the disappearance of Tau's daughter.
Clockwork City is a proper romp of a crime thriller, as Tau and his foul-mouthed dog spirit guide continue to unravel the mystery of the disappearance of Tau's daughter. It's an adventure that takes them to the heart of ancient London and the alternate world of the Fae. There's a host of new characters and a glorious heist that is the supernatural equivalent of Ocean's 11. This is fantastic fun, and a worthy sequel, even if not - quite - on a par with the first book.
March 28, 2020
There are no holds barred in this second instalment of a series I have totally fallen in love with. I couldn't wait to jump into it and keep going to see how questions would be answered and what monsters London and his friends would be facing. And sure enough, the stakes jumped to incredible heights and the path to the end was fraught with danger.
There were so many spectacular moments and shocking twists. The story turned somehow even darker than before. London's emotional state was even darker than before, and his path to finding the truth about his daughter ended in a way I sensed, but was still shocked by. He's such a great character, I truly want to know more about him. I would also want to know more about characters like Cal Winters and of course, Armitage.
All the actions scenes were even more powerful than the rest, and though there were some moments where I was a little thrown by some of the perspective changes, but I never felt bored and every action scene was unpredictable and thrilling.
If I have a single complaint, it was that the end came too soon. Maybe I haven't thought about it as much as I needed to, but I did not find the epilogue quite as satisfying. There were plenty of unanswered questions, though many were implied.
Despite those nitpicks, I still LOVE this book and this series and can only hope there will be more in the future!
There were so many spectacular moments and shocking twists. The story turned somehow even darker than before. London's emotional state was even darker than before, and his path to finding the truth about his daughter ended in a way I sensed, but was still shocked by. He's such a great character, I truly want to know more about him. I would also want to know more about characters like Cal Winters and of course, Armitage.
All the actions scenes were even more powerful than the rest, and though there were some moments where I was a little thrown by some of the perspective changes, but I never felt bored and every action scene was unpredictable and thrilling.
If I have a single complaint, it was that the end came too soon. Maybe I haven't thought about it as much as I needed to, but I did not find the epilogue quite as satisfying. There were plenty of unanswered questions, though many were implied.
Despite those nitpicks, I still LOVE this book and this series and can only hope there will be more in the future!
February 19, 2018
Gideon Tau (London) and 'Dog' are in Cape Town, South Africa on the trail of child disappearances, sort of. 'Dog' has London's back, sort of.
'Dog' is London's spirit guide, he's a Border Terrier! with attitude.
After Cape Town, London, 'Dog' and boss Armitage embark on a trip back to London's home town (guess where - London!).
But not before they pay a visit to one of the most, if not the most, important person in Delphic Division, although its not like they had a choice anyway, about either.
They get involved with Fae, royalty, sins(!), ancient gods and more. London hopes to find Cally, his daughter, as part of the investigation into the disappearing children. It doesn't stop here, there is much more!
Anyone who read and enjoyed Poison City will definitely want to read this. If possible, it may even be better. If you like supernatural and fantasy beings, I think you will enjoy this. If you like Border Terriers, and all the above, I'm sure that you'll love this. 'Dog' has Border Terrier attitude and then some.
London is telling the story, most of the time, it comes over well. There is cursing and swearing, which I don't usually like, but somehow it suits this book, it isn't overused (even though there is a lot of it).
I like that this book continues the story of London's search for the one who took his daughter. Initially, in Poison City, he believed her dead, but then found out that she was still alive, along with the name of the one who took her. But he gave up the information, and it has ground him down ever since.
I lived in this book the whole time I was reading it. I didn't want to write a review about it. I didn't want to have finished it already. And if I have finished it and I have written the review, then I want the next book now, please.
I received an e-ARC of this novel through NetGalley in exchange for a fair and honest review. NetGalley does not allow for paid reviews.
'Dog' is London's spirit guide, he's a Border Terrier! with attitude.
After Cape Town, London, 'Dog' and boss Armitage embark on a trip back to London's home town (guess where - London!).
But not before they pay a visit to one of the most, if not the most, important person in Delphic Division, although its not like they had a choice anyway, about either.
They get involved with Fae, royalty, sins(!), ancient gods and more. London hopes to find Cally, his daughter, as part of the investigation into the disappearing children. It doesn't stop here, there is much more!
Anyone who read and enjoyed Poison City will definitely want to read this. If possible, it may even be better. If you like supernatural and fantasy beings, I think you will enjoy this. If you like Border Terriers, and all the above, I'm sure that you'll love this. 'Dog' has Border Terrier attitude and then some.
London is telling the story, most of the time, it comes over well. There is cursing and swearing, which I don't usually like, but somehow it suits this book, it isn't overused (even though there is a lot of it).
I like that this book continues the story of London's search for the one who took his daughter. Initially, in Poison City, he believed her dead, but then found out that she was still alive, along with the name of the one who took her. But he gave up the information, and it has ground him down ever since.
I lived in this book the whole time I was reading it. I didn't want to write a review about it. I didn't want to have finished it already. And if I have finished it and I have written the review, then I want the next book now, please.
"The dog pads forward. ‘Drop me and I will unmake you.’‘You don’t have the power for that,’ I said, hooking my arm under his belly. He shifts around until he’s comfortable in the crook of my arm, his head right next to mine. ‘Try me,’ he whispers."
I received an e-ARC of this novel through NetGalley in exchange for a fair and honest review. NetGalley does not allow for paid reviews.
February 28, 2018
"Clockwork City" is the second book in the Delphic Division series and I think I loved it even more than its predecessor, "Poison City".
The series is just the kind of dry and black satirical humour I enjoy, packaged into a highly-addictive modern fantasy storyline.
"Clockwork City" moves the story from South Africa to London, where our anti-hero Gideon Tau (nicknamed "London" because duh that's where he's from), had to, once again, save the world from impending evil.
Tau is a drunk, "low-grade magic user" cop with the secret Delphic Division, which polices magical creatures hiding and causing mischief in Dayside, that is, the everyday world of you and me.
London and his boss, Armitage, as well as his spirit-guide, a sarcastic, misanthropic, Sherry-loving dog, travel to the UK to fight a new, cult-like Fae gang that wants to destroy the City of London, and maybe the world too. At the same time, he finally gets a clue about his missing daughter, Cally.
The story is original and entertaining AF. I cannot wait for the next book.
The series is just the kind of dry and black satirical humour I enjoy, packaged into a highly-addictive modern fantasy storyline.
"Clockwork City" moves the story from South Africa to London, where our anti-hero Gideon Tau (nicknamed "London" because duh that's where he's from), had to, once again, save the world from impending evil.
Tau is a drunk, "low-grade magic user" cop with the secret Delphic Division, which polices magical creatures hiding and causing mischief in Dayside, that is, the everyday world of you and me.
London and his boss, Armitage, as well as his spirit-guide, a sarcastic, misanthropic, Sherry-loving dog, travel to the UK to fight a new, cult-like Fae gang that wants to destroy the City of London, and maybe the world too. At the same time, he finally gets a clue about his missing daughter, Cally.
The story is original and entertaining AF. I cannot wait for the next book.
June 15, 2025
I think this book did a really fantastic job of catering for idiots like me who accidentally pick up the second book in a series and don’t realise until about 200 pages in that a significant event the MC is talking about isn’t just generic character building.
Fantastic world, and very easy for me to imagine scenes as they were played out. Particularly like the two chapters that are completely different from the rest of the book.
I think the dialogue, for me, is a bit of a let down. Everyone is making quips all the time and it kind of stops them from having unique voices and identities. Maybe it’s fatigue from that style of dialogue being in most things nowadays, but the characters only really feel different in appearance more than anything particularly nuanced.
Overall I’d say I enjoyed this book and kept looking forward to picking it up again. Will probably read the follow up and maybe even endeavour to try the one before.
Fantastic world, and very easy for me to imagine scenes as they were played out. Particularly like the two chapters that are completely different from the rest of the book.
I think the dialogue, for me, is a bit of a let down. Everyone is making quips all the time and it kind of stops them from having unique voices and identities. Maybe it’s fatigue from that style of dialogue being in most things nowadays, but the characters only really feel different in appearance more than anything particularly nuanced.
Overall I’d say I enjoyed this book and kept looking forward to picking it up again. Will probably read the follow up and maybe even endeavour to try the one before.
April 26, 2019
I'm just a smidgen in love with the Delphic Division series, they're like Ben Aaronovictch's superb Rivers of London novels' sketchier drunker punk rock listening friend/2nd cousin/angry ferret bearing a grudge.
Funny, noisy, nasty where needed and with a proper look at depression asw well, the characters are rough around the edges but likeable and laugh out loud funny at times. The plot rollocks along from where Poison City left off and the same twist of African and Celtic folklore plays into everthing. And the ending does what needs to be done whilst hopefully leaving the work there for the series to continue.
Funny, noisy, nasty where needed and with a proper look at depression asw well, the characters are rough around the edges but likeable and laugh out loud funny at times. The plot rollocks along from where Poison City left off and the same twist of African and Celtic folklore plays into everthing. And the ending does what needs to be done whilst hopefully leaving the work there for the series to continue.
March 27, 2020
3.5 stars
This book was the exact sort of urban fantasy chaos (and I mean CHAOS) I needed right now! I picked it up from my local library not knowing that it was a sequel, but the plot was easy to follow and fast-paced so that was no issue. Props to it for drawing on a wide range of supernatural creatures from a variety of cultures, instead of the same tired vampires, werewolves, fairies, witches(although some of them did feature)
The main flaw I found in this book was the oversaturated amount of, frankly, cringey references. When Dog ( the talking dog) made a Doge joke I honestly wanted to gouge my eyes out. It would have been so much better without it.
This book was the exact sort of urban fantasy chaos (and I mean CHAOS) I needed right now! I picked it up from my local library not knowing that it was a sequel, but the plot was easy to follow and fast-paced so that was no issue. Props to it for drawing on a wide range of supernatural creatures from a variety of cultures, instead of the same tired vampires, werewolves, fairies, witches(although some of them did feature)
The main flaw I found in this book was the oversaturated amount of, frankly, cringey references. When Dog ( the talking dog) made a Doge joke I honestly wanted to gouge my eyes out. It would have been so much better without it.
May 11, 2018
Oh my gosh I really hope there is a third book in this series because I am so unhappy with how it finished (no spoilers). This book is just as good as the first. Think Men In Black, complete with obnoxious talking dog, but much more intelectual. This writer has an incredible imagination! A similar book to the first inasmuch that it starts off (in a nutshell) with Gideon (aka London) chasing aliens and then it morphs into a straight from the old testament nightmare with a potentially cataclysmic event involving the seven deadly sins becoming flesh.
August 24, 2018
The book starts right out with action and some great back and forth between Dog and London. We get some new locations, including Nightside and a city in Faerie. There are a few chapters that read like a Guy Ritchie film (which I loved). Massive plot twist, a couple new faces, some touching moments between London, Dog, and Armitage...in their fashion. All I can say is there better be a third book coming!
January 11, 2020
I pre-ordered this book but never go around to reading it I kept putting it off as I didn't know how many books there would be but I can't believe I waited so long.
I really enjoyed this story, which picks up about 3 years after book one. I think Gideon Tau aka London and 'dog' are great characters and it was an interesting continuation to the story. I love the banter between London and dog as well as from London's boss Armitage. This story also introduces Cal Winters who was also an interesting character.
In this story London continues to search for his daughter Cally, which leads him on a number of leads from Cape Town to London (the place, not the character!!) and eventually to Faerie.
I loved the pace of this book and the twists and turns that follow. I don't want to give any spoliers but there is a particual scene in chapter 19 that I did not see coming which I thought was brilliant.
As for the ending. WOW! It was great and I did not see that coming and had me on the edge of my seat wondering how it was going to end. I can't say more than that otherwise it will be spoliers.
This book is amongst one of the best ones I've enjoyed in a while and reminds me why Urban Fantasy is my favourite genre.
I really enjoyed this story, which picks up about 3 years after book one. I think Gideon Tau aka London and 'dog' are great characters and it was an interesting continuation to the story. I love the banter between London and dog as well as from London's boss Armitage. This story also introduces Cal Winters who was also an interesting character.
In this story London continues to search for his daughter Cally, which leads him on a number of leads from Cape Town to London (the place, not the character!!) and eventually to Faerie.
I loved the pace of this book and the twists and turns that follow. I don't want to give any spoliers but there is a particual scene in chapter 19 that I did not see coming which I thought was brilliant.
As for the ending. WOW! It was great and I did not see that coming and had me on the edge of my seat wondering how it was going to end. I can't say more than that otherwise it will be spoliers.
This book is amongst one of the best ones I've enjoyed in a while and reminds me why Urban Fantasy is my favourite genre.
December 31, 2017
The second in Paul Crilley’s urban fantasy DELPHIC DIVISION SERIES is an action-packed, violent, foul-mouthed and completely fun sequel with a Shane Black vibe that moves the action from South Africa to London while advancing the series arc, introducing new characters and bringing back old ones and ending in a guy punch that makes me desperate to read the next book.
June 8, 2018
June 2018-I think this was even better than the 1st book.We pick up a month after the events of the last book and its all a go. And its a gripping read from page 1. My favourite part is the nod to D&D adventures. I continue to love The Dog. And the ending broke my heart. Really hoping there will be a 3rd book.
August 29, 2019
The sequel to Poison City that ups the antics and made the book into an action movie. Think Marvel movies, but with magic(no not doctor strange or scarlet witch). This book literally inserts comedic moments into a book, and actually made it funny. Think Marvel, but with violence and adult humour mixed in, a great movie in book form.
December 15, 2017
I love this series - downright dark and disturbing with a wonderfully twisted sense of humour.
Still trying to come to terms with the last couple of pages, there had better be a third book and I really hope it's soon.
Still trying to come to terms with the last couple of pages, there had better be a third book and I really hope it's soon.
September 21, 2018
Did not enjoy this one as much as the first. I can’t exactly put my finger on why that is. Certainly I missed the action being set in my home town. It just felt more ugly somehow - too much unnecessary violence and an undertone of hopelessness that I felt hard to shake once I put the book down.
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