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The Dark Horizon Trilogy #2

The Devil's Architect

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Four Brutal Murders, Four Mysterious Churches, One Terrifying Purpose. A razor-sharp thriller

Buckle up for the second spine-chilling instalment of the Dark Horizon Trilogy, from bestselling thriller author Duncan Simpson.

Driven by unearthly visions, a convicted killer escapes from a maximum-security psychiatric hospital. Days later a woman is ritualistically murdered in the grounds of a mysterious London church. When a Roman coin is discovered under the victim’s skin, Vincent Blake - London’s leading stolen-art investigator - is called in to assist the police with their investigations.

A series of copycat murders, all carried out within the vicinity of connected London churches rocks the heart of the city. As the body count rises, Blake is thrust into a race against time to solve a centuries-old mystery that sets him on a collision course with a terrifying secret.

Nothing can prepare him for what he has to face, because the churches are not what they seem … they have been designed by the Devil’s Architect.

310 pages, Paperback

First published February 10, 2017

193 people are currently reading
864 people want to read

About the author

Duncan Simpson

5 books120 followers
Thriller writer, Duncan Simpson spent his childhood in Cornwall, England. As a teenager he gained experience in a variety of jobs: from working in a mine, to doing shifts as a security guard in an American airport. After graduating from the University of Leeds with a physics degree, he spent a year backpacking around the world. On returning to the UK, he embarked on a successful career in business. Along the way, he became the finance director for a technology company and a partner in a leading management consultancy firm.

His debut novel, The History of Things to Come was born out of his lifelong fascination with the relationship between science and religion. A keen student of the history of London, he loves exploring the ancient stories and myths surrounding the city. When he's not writing or consulting, you'll find him: playing guitar in a rock band, running by the Thames, or drinking tea with his wife and three children in their home in Berkshire, England.

Find out more by visiting:
Website & Blog: http://www.duncansimpsonauthor.com
Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/dsimpsonauthor
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/duncansimpson...

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5 stars
187 (48%)
4 stars
143 (36%)
3 stars
46 (11%)
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10 (2%)
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 63 reviews
Profile Image for Russell ..
Author 4 books62 followers
May 20, 2018
What a captivating, twisted story! Picking up again Vincent Blake’s tumultuous journey though the streets of London, Simpson does not let the reader pause for any moment. Incredibly descriptive grisly murder scenes, fascinating characters and a twisted plot gives way to an explosive & unexpected ending. Being stated, this book sets up the reader the next part of series...Fantastic! Pick this up today!
Profile Image for Amy Bright.
60 reviews
February 28, 2017
Fantastic book!

Mr. Simpson's done it again. I find stories involving religions of all types, to be extremely interesting, and The Devil's Architect proves it. It kept me on the eye of my seat,and while there was violence,as there usually is in thrillers,it adds to the excitement of the story. The characters and the story itself are very good,and you should read it for yourselves. Please leave a review to give feedback to the author,and to those who also may be interested in reading it. ☺
Profile Image for Kristi Hudecek-Ashwill.
Author 2 books48 followers
August 29, 2020
EVE CAN'T BLINK

After reading A History of Things to Come by this same author, I learned to take notes while I read The Devil's Architect. I didn't want to forget important events or the history I learned while reading this.

It's an intense murder/mystery with a ton of history behind it. Ritualistic murders are taking place around churches that were designed by Nicholas Hawksmoor, who was an apprentice under Christopher Wren who was also a scientist and an architect. But Hawksmoor had a more sinister agenda than Wren and it is reflected in his designs of churches that have no Christian symbols on them at all. Look them up. I did and was fascinated. Until I started reading books by Duncan Simpson, I had no idea what was compelling these historical figures and I'd never heard of Nicholas Hawksmoor.

Back to business here. Dr. Vincent Blake is an archaeologist who works closely with the London police department. He's got a strong background in art and helps to recover stolen paintings and relics. But he also works on murder cases when they involve such things. When a schizophrenic serial killer escapes from a hospital where he is being treated for an illness (how he escapes will blow your mind) and murders start happening again, Blake and the police department know exactly who they're looking for. They just have to catch him before he kills again and a the final eclipse in the tetrad. This is actually a deal where these eclipses happen to fall on significant Jewish holidays, something that is rare, and the fourth one is about to happen. Meanwhile, the bodies of young women with their eyelids cut off and a rare coin shoved into a pocket in their skin that the killer carved are showing up at Hawksmoor churches. There's more mutilation to the bodies and any type of metal the victims may have been wearing was taken off them and set beside their bodies. The whole thing was grisly and odd, but it had purpose.

This book isn't page after page of ugly, bloody scenes. Not at all. We're not taken inside the mind of the killer who is performing these ritualistic murders. We think we know who the perpetrator is and we know Vincent Blake is working the case with the police department. We're with him while he's dealing with a drug addicted sister, his daughter going through physical rehabilitation after an incident in The History of Things to Come (the previous book in the series), and trying to catch the maniac murderer before he gets his final victim.

This was a "step-on-the-gas-and-go-go-go" book. From the first introduction of Enoch Hart, the schizophrenic, former special forces guy who is incarcerated at Broodmoor high-security psychiatric hospital after killing a high church official, through the exploration of exorcisms, biblical verses, Satanism, ritualistic murders, lots of history, and a hell of a twist toward the last third of the book, yeah I was glued to this. Oh, and let's not forget the enigmatic Mary and her black dog. She was in the first book, too.

I love books that teach me things while I read and I learned a lot while I was swept away in this story. You don't have to be a student of history, art, religion, or psychology to enjoy this book. But you should read it with an open mind and maybe a shot of whiskey. It's that intense.

The author did his homework and this is a book with smarts. It had my reader in one hand and my phone in the other, looking up these churches and Nicholas Hawksmoor.

This was a truly fascinating read.

*This is the second book of the Dark Horizon Trilogy, but can easily be read as a stand-alone novel.



Profile Image for Texas.
1,685 reviews394 followers
September 17, 2018
The History of Things to Come #1 - This is my first read by this author and I enjoyed the story immensely. The ultimate battle between Good and Evil, and the coming of the Tribulation. Mr. Simpson wrote a book worth reading, with his well thought out story lines; his well defined characters; and a large blend of history with fiction. The story is fast paced with plenty of suspense; some predictable episodes, but an entertaining, substantial book.

Unfortunately, he didn't edit with a fine tooth comb, making mistakes that are noticeable but doesn't stop the flow of the story. 4*

The Devil's Architect #2 - Having read the first book, I was happy to find Devil's was even better. Extremely intriguing, full of London's history, ranging from the Druids to the Romans to the present, blended with stories from the Bible give the reader a substantial read that difficult to put down. Well written and thought out, the story lines are suspense filled with various events through time brought into play keeping the reader immersed in the pages. The characters are developed enough, and the main characters keep growing, to keep the reader's interest; some are fascinating.

With owning the first book of the series, I contacted the author to review this book since the third book was available for review. He kindly shared this book with me and I was well entertained. Needs minor editing. Included are various bits of information used in the story; some repeated verbatim from the story, some additional; and all were interesting. 5*

The Logos Code #3 - A fabulous ending to an intriguing, mesmerizing trilogy. Well written and well thought with a wonderful blend of history, religion, science, fact and fiction. The story is difficult to put down and I relish having all three books to chain read. This is a substantial, interesting read and the research and preparation that the author did makes this series of books a must read.

The characters add to the adhesion of the elements composing the trilogy. The main set of characters have developed incrementally, while the supporting characters add depth and meaning along the story lines. The locations and artifacts are important characters, too, and the blending in of several religions add reinforcement to the story lines. The author's vivid descriptions, along with the fast paced, action packed plot, and understandable, relaxed writing style reinforce the must read element. I received this after contacting the author to review his trilogy. 5*
Profile Image for Kristi | Hidden Staircase |.
885 reviews27 followers
February 2, 2018
Mr. Simpson wastes no time engaging the reader in this suspenseful mystery. From the first page, The Devil's Architect is a fast paced thriller that sucked me right in. Set in London, Vincent Blake finds himself consulting with DCI Lukas Milton on a gruesome murder at a church. When a second murder occurs, they know they are hunting down a serial killer.

I enjoy authors that take pieces of history and twist them a bit to work in their fictional world, and Mr. Simpson does this very well. I don't like to give away spoilers, but the artifact found at the first murder scene had an especially interesting historical tie-in to London. The afterword at the end of the novel gives the reader more information on the factual events that make up pieces of his story.

A little housekeeping - The Devil's Architect is the second book in the trilogy, and appears to pick up where the first book left off. I had not read the first book before this one. I was able to enjoy this mystery no problem - Mr. Simpson did a good job ensuring the reader had the information they needed to enjoy this book. But I will say that there does seem to be an over-arching theme/storyline across the trilogy, and this book did give away spoilers for what I suspect was the ending or climax of the first book.

Many thanks to Goodreads Giveaways - and especially to Mr. Simpson - for providing me with a copy of this book to read. I'm looking forward to catching up on the first and reading the conclusion in the third.
372 reviews3 followers
October 26, 2020
Non-stop thriller with a dark theme and engaging characters

I purchased and read Book #1 (A History of Things to Come) in the Dark Horizon’s Trilogy over a year ago. Wrote a 5-star review, wondered why such a skilled story-teller was not being backed by a major publisher, and got distracted by other books on my Kindle. However, I did purchase the full trilogy as a box set because I felt that I would shortly be reading the rest of the books.
Simpson has a strong and confident voice for someone in the “indie author/publisher” category. His background material notes on Sir Isaac Newton, Christopher Wren, Freemasons, satanic forces/the supernatural, architecture, and a host of other categories makes for fascinating reading in itself.
This is not a trilogy where one can jump into any book randomly. Each novel can be read on its own, but there is a continuity of recurring and crucial characters that depend heavily on having read the books in order.
The central character – Dr. Vincent Blake – has a business card that reads “Dr. Vincent Blake, Independent Art Recovery Investigator” but he has a relationship with the London police department that goes way beyond that, and there are references to previous employment with MI6. However, the characters in this series are well developed, there is a lot of physical action, and the storyline is very hard to resist, even if a reader was so inclined.
Best comparison I can think of would be a Dan Brown thriller delivered as a three-volume collection, but I rate Simpson a notch higher.
162 reviews2 followers
May 31, 2019
The Devil’s Architect is a book like no other! Duncan Simpson proves he CAN WRITE!!! Unique and well thought out plot is an understatement. Suspense to the point where you hold your breath. Mystery which has you glued to the pages to find out WHAT NEXT? It has fast paced action, wonderful characters, history, religion, mystery, and science, is a page turner, and that is just for starters. PLUS ALL that makes The Devil’s Architect is a compelling and RIVETING read! It just simply does NOT get any better than THAT. Main character Vincent Blake takes it ALL on and then some. The depth of the story and the characters in The Devil’s Architect knew no bounds. There are just not enough adjectives to describe this riveting and compelling read by such an accomplished Author as Duncan Simpson! He has such a command over language and words to bring home a story of all stories. You do NOT want to miss The Devil’s Architect! Start to finish the story never falters! No spoilers but Duncan Simpson gives a synopsis of this book, and I must say was very humble in his description of The Devil’s Architect. Yelling it from the rooftops might could do it justice!! ENJOY!!
917 reviews5 followers
September 29, 2017
More great fun, as Simpson continues his Brownian trilogy. Possibly not so original as the first book, given that Hawksmoor’s tendencies are well known to many of us (as Simpson comments in the book) but still very entertaining. The action sequences are particularly well written. Still well ahead of most of Brown’s output since “The Da Vinci Code” Vincent is a much more believable hero. I thought that the plot was a bit clunky, the chief villain was obvious from his first appearance.
But I have a gripe; given the quality of the research, why is the structure of the Met Police so wrong, there is no “Chief Constable” below the Commissioner and how has a DCI from the Art Squad moved to investigating serial murders. As for the new villain!oh boy!
Profile Image for Ken Cook.
1,560 reviews6 followers
June 21, 2017
This book was sent to me as a result of a GoodReads win for a fair and honest review.

Set in London, and involving historic churches - and then adding mysterious ritualistic murders - how could I not love it. The plot arc is brilliant, characters believable and engaging, great descriptions and, in addition, there's historic faction thrown in so I learned things. And having the author provide, in the Afterword, more than a glossary of terms, but qualifying background is a plus.

I enjoyed this enough to want to read the rest of the Dark Horizon Trilogy.
784 reviews9 followers
February 16, 2018
Great Read

I very much enjoyed this second book in the Dark Horizon Trilogy. Characters from the first book of the series continue to be developed and improved, but mostly the plot is outstanding. As I read the book, I kept wondering how much of the story was true and how much was the authors invention. As it turns out, most of it was true, but I'll leave it to you to read and find out which parts are which. Very entertaining story by a talented author, I look forward to number 3!!!
Profile Image for Shaun Holst.
4 reviews
July 6, 2018
I loved this book much like I did the first one. I love when history/religion/life all inter mingle. it's refreshing to see an author speak about religion without totally bashing it. I also love the tour around London. I have never been but if I ever go I would love to see some of the places that still exist in some form. and the info at the back was great as well.

I'm rambling because there is so much good in this book. pick up a copy and read it. Duncan Simpson may become your new fav author. I can't wait for the next one to come out.
122 reviews2 followers
August 29, 2018
Brilliant

I am enjoying this trilogy. Have read first 2 books featuring Vincent Blake and his policeman Friend DS Milton.
The twist and turns keep one enthralled. Who is the strange homeless Mary and her dog and how are their lives and Vincent Blake connected and why.
As Simpson gives little insights through each story he brings intrigue to the fore and keeps the reader wanting better answers.
I like the way Duncan Simpson writes and now on to the final instalment in this trilogy as I need to know will Blake save London from a dark future
Profile Image for Brenda Dickenson.
84 reviews4 followers
August 22, 2017
A fast paced thriller that keeps you turning the pages!

I enjoyed this book as the characters are well written and never dull. Blake is an expert in art, stolen and forged, and antiquities of that may be obscure to most. He is puzzle solver and crime solver, especially when they are intertwined. Called on by the police to solve mysteries that require such attributes, he answers. You just have to read it and see him encounter real good and evil. A real Thriller!


96 reviews1 follower
September 18, 2018
Although I enjoyed this book it left me somewhat unsatisfied and I'm not sure exactly why. I don't think the plot is as tight as it could be and is somewhat predictable. This book lacks the suspense in "The History Of Things To Come" which I found hugely entertaining. The book contains plenty of blood and gore if that's your scene but personally I prefer a tightly written suspense thriller.

Again I have to say that the book is readable but didn't hold my attention so well.
18 reviews1 follower
January 22, 2018
A thrill ride through London

This is a real page turner. The two current books if the Dark Horizon trilogy rival Dan Brown's Robert Langdon series, which includes The Da Cinci Code.
If you like London, thrillers, or ancient mysteries, read this book and it's predecessor A History of Things to Come.
13 reviews
June 28, 2017
Excellent

I have red books 1 and 2. Both were well written and interesting for people who enjoy history with some fictional input that makes the story flow. Characters you like (or hate) and enough action and dry humour makes for a very enjoyable experience. Thank you.
Profile Image for Martin Wilson.
2 reviews
July 8, 2017
This is the second book in the dark horizon trilogy. I really enjoyed this book and can't wait for the third installment in the series. Great storytelling by the author you can't put it down. For all readers who like Dan Brown please read these books.
439 reviews1 follower
August 12, 2017
Fast:-paced and historically interesting

I enjoyed the story because it incorporated historical biblical elements without trying to undermine traditional Christian beliefs or attack the Catholic Church (I am not Catholic). It's actually a story of good vs. evil.
Profile Image for Roger.
11 reviews
August 18, 2017
The story was interesting enough. What I did find was there was a greater use of 'fillers' that did not connect to the story and seemed only there to increase the word count/length of the book. Overall a good read and story.
452 reviews37 followers
September 25, 2017
Interesting Connection to London's Past

"The Devil's Architect," skillfully weaves together religious folklore and many aspects of London's history and prehistory resulting in a fast paced adventure that will keep the reader entertained from start to finish.
Profile Image for Bob.
1,984 reviews20 followers
November 19, 2017
Continuing Vincent Blake's story as he is again involved in a series of murders associated with churches in London designed by the architect Hawksmoor and seemingly connected to the belief of the Fallen Angels. Another good read by Mr. Simpson
610 reviews2 followers
April 13, 2018
A FINE TALE OF THINGS ARE NOT ALWAYS AS THEY APPEAR IT IS.....

Hello, these stories are just plain great. The telling of the story is great. The characters are great. The premise is great. Add it all together and you get, what? Great stuff. Thanks.
Profile Image for Peter W. Nordloh.
3 reviews
May 29, 2018
Fascinating read.

Duncan Simpson's second book in the Vincent Blake doesn't disappoint. Fast paced and we'll researched, the thrills keep coming from beginning until the last page. Can't wait to return to London in order to see the Hawksmoor churches in person.
Profile Image for Michael.
652 reviews8 followers
October 28, 2018
Enjoyable if, as is common with thrillers of this type, rather unbelievable. The background history of London woven into the story is fascinating and has encouraged me to seek out these churches and other sites on my frequent visits to London.
A well written page turner.
187 reviews2 followers
November 1, 2018
What a good story! I can't imagine the amount of research the author must have done to be able to write this book. I highly recommend this to readers who like historical fiction rolled into a mystery.
1,154 reviews6 followers
March 19, 2024
Compelling and difficult to put down, I enjoyed this book and the evident historical research. I have lived near the area described, so found it interesting from that aspect alone. Adding a decent story was great!
Profile Image for Jenny Clarke.
3 reviews2 followers
February 28, 2017
Absolutely gripping , just like the first book in the trilogy
Duncan is an excellent writer
I couldn't put either of the two books down
Profile Image for Linda.
582 reviews
May 9, 2017
This book was full of excitement and a little spooky. I researched each of Hawksmoor's church as they came up in the book. So much fun
Profile Image for Gailene St amand.
6 reviews
May 15, 2017
Mysterious murders and secrets of power with historical facts that connects the story.
I am waiting for the next one
Displaying 1 - 30 of 63 reviews

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