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The Invisible Library #5
The Mortal Word
A corrupt countessA spy in dangerAnd an assassin at largeThe fifth title in Genevieve Cogman's witty and wonderful Invisible Library series, The Mortal Word is a rollicking literary adventure.Peace talks are always tricky, especially when a key diplomat gets stabbed. This rudely interrupts a top-secret summit between the warring dragons and Fae. As a neutral party, Librarian-spy Irene is summoned to investigate. She must head to a version of 1890s Paris, with her assistant Kai and her detective friend Vale, where these talks are fracturing. Here, she must get to the bottom of the attack – before either the peace negotiations or the city go up in flames.Suspicions fly thick and fast and Irene soon finds herself in the seedy depths of the Parisian underworld. She’s on the trail of a notoriously warlike Fae, the Blood Countess. However, the evidence against the Countess is circumstantial. Could the killer be a member of the Library itself?
418 pages, Paperback
First published November 27, 2018
614 people are currently reading
10510 people want to read
About the author
Genevieve Cogman
45 books4,576 followersGenevieve Cogman got started on Tolkien and Sherlock Holmes at an early age, and has never looked back. But on a perhaps more prosaic note, she has an MSC in Statistics with Medical Applications and has wielded this in an assortment of jobs: clinical coder, data analyst and classifications specialist. Although The Invisible Library is her debut novel, she has also previously worked as a freelance roleplaying game writer. Genevieve Cogman’s hobbies include patchwork, beading, knitting and gaming, and she lives in the north of England.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 1,231 reviews
November 20, 2018
Any time a new book in this series is announced, there should be an international holiday of celebration and reading. What a treat.
Fans of Investigator Vale will be happy to know that he is back and center-stage. When an assassination takes place at a fae-dragon peace conference, he is the natural choice to find the killer. However, there are political considerations involved, and he is given a team of one librarian, one fae, and one dragon work together. Irene is, of course, the assigned librarian, and Kai, as a dragon prince, is able to insert himself wherever he'd like.
Irene, Vale, and the team must determine who is trying to derail the peace conference, and try to stay out of the path of a new sadistic enemy.
I daresay this was my favorite installment.
Also, the author confirmed on her website that she has a publisher for books 6-8!
arc received from the publisher
Fans of Investigator Vale will be happy to know that he is back and center-stage. When an assassination takes place at a fae-dragon peace conference, he is the natural choice to find the killer. However, there are political considerations involved, and he is given a team of one librarian, one fae, and one dragon work together. Irene is, of course, the assigned librarian, and Kai, as a dragon prince, is able to insert himself wherever he'd like.
Irene, Vale, and the team must determine who is trying to derail the peace conference, and try to stay out of the path of a new sadistic enemy.
I daresay this was my favorite installment.
Also, the author confirmed on her website that she has a publisher for books 6-8!
arc received from the publisher
December 28, 2018
I look forward to every book in this series and have not been disappointed yet! I love the idea of a library between worlds and magic doors which open to different libraries in different places and times. Plus the most important characters are a librarian and a dragon. What more could you ask for?
After five books it was time that Irene and Kai actually got it together even though most of the action was left to the reader's imagination ( that's okay - we have plenty!). The whole book was action packed and as well as dragons there were fae. I have a soft spot for Silver and kind of liked the Princess as well.
So it was all good fun and a very entertaining read. Roll on book six!
Thanks Netgalley for my opportunity to read and review this book.
After five books it was time that Irene and Kai actually got it together even though most of the action was left to the reader's imagination ( that's okay - we have plenty!). The whole book was action packed and as well as dragons there were fae. I have a soft spot for Silver and kind of liked the Princess as well.
So it was all good fun and a very entertaining read. Roll on book six!
Thanks Netgalley for my opportunity to read and review this book.
November 27, 2018
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for offering me an advanced copy in exchange for nothing more than an honest review.
If you haven't picked up The Invisible Library, stop reading RIGHT NOW and go pick it up. It's a clever world of time-travel-adjacent adventures with dragons and fae and even a magic language of sorts. It's like Doctor Who meets The Chronicles of St. Mary's, and it's a BLAST to read. So go pick it up. This one is book five, so reading any more now will just spoil all your fun.
Okay, to business. After the crazy rogue Librarian has caused so much trouble, the two major powers in all the universes are set to make a peace treaty, and of course, this means things will NOT go smoothly. Even more, Vale has been called to the world where negotiations are being held to run an investigation of the murder of a high profile member of one side of the treaty. Of course, Irene is to go as the Librarian representative on the team.
For the first time, we get LOTS of dragons, LOTS of Fae, and LOTS of Librarians, all in one story. Multiple major players on every side make this a mystery of Agatha Christie style - lots of potential suspects, and lots of tangled webs woven that need to be un-spaghettied. Yes, I realize that's not a real word. Too bad.
My biggest gripe is that Vale and Silver are yet again relegated to minor characters. I really want them to have the chance to play a key role, but they almost felt like filler in this one yet again, especially since Irene takes over the investigation almost immediately upon arrival. The story seems to revolve around Irene and Kai -- which is great, as they're both fantastic characters, but I think Vale and Silver both have so much potential and are wasted as plot points.
Overall though, this one is a fun romp through the Paris of yesteryear, with heavy doses of Fae chaos and dragon order and Librarian wit, so 4 out of 5 stars.
If you haven't picked up The Invisible Library, stop reading RIGHT NOW and go pick it up. It's a clever world of time-travel-adjacent adventures with dragons and fae and even a magic language of sorts. It's like Doctor Who meets The Chronicles of St. Mary's, and it's a BLAST to read. So go pick it up. This one is book five, so reading any more now will just spoil all your fun.
Okay, to business. After the crazy rogue Librarian has caused so much trouble, the two major powers in all the universes are set to make a peace treaty, and of course, this means things will NOT go smoothly. Even more, Vale has been called to the world where negotiations are being held to run an investigation of the murder of a high profile member of one side of the treaty. Of course, Irene is to go as the Librarian representative on the team.
For the first time, we get LOTS of dragons, LOTS of Fae, and LOTS of Librarians, all in one story. Multiple major players on every side make this a mystery of Agatha Christie style - lots of potential suspects, and lots of tangled webs woven that need to be un-spaghettied. Yes, I realize that's not a real word. Too bad.
My biggest gripe is that Vale and Silver are yet again relegated to minor characters. I really want them to have the chance to play a key role, but they almost felt like filler in this one yet again, especially since Irene takes over the investigation almost immediately upon arrival. The story seems to revolve around Irene and Kai -- which is great, as they're both fantastic characters, but I think Vale and Silver both have so much potential and are wasted as plot points.
Overall though, this one is a fun romp through the Paris of yesteryear, with heavy doses of Fae chaos and dragon order and Librarian wit, so 4 out of 5 stars.
December 9, 2018
I really wanted to like this one more. I liked it well enough but to be honest it was rather bland. it was so bland that a week later I still have no real opinion on it. I remember the main points but everything else is a blur which makes it a mediocre book in my opinion at best. Still I liked the path the series is taking and hopefully I will still care enough to pick up the next book when it's published.
December 8, 2018
Why am I so Meh about this series?
There are a lot of things that I like about this series.
But…I want to feel more attached to the characters at book five and it just isn’t happening for me.
I think part of the issue is that it does feel episodic in nature and so this could be any three people each new book. I don’t feel like I have emotions for the characters carrying over from the prior books. Then there is the feeling that we don’t every really dig any deeper into the characters beyond the surface layer. For example, we find out something about Irene’s parents in book two that I’m dying for her to have a conversation with them about. But now it is book 5 and even though they are physically close to Irene there is still no contact with them in this book. I feel like there are multiple things like this just thrown in and then never resolved.
The premise is a good one. Irene is the Library’s investigator to a secret delegation trying to work out a peace treaty between Dragon’s and the Fae when one of the Dragon’s is killed. Vale is also tapped to be in the mix because of his great detective skills and Kai finds a way to be close by as well. I love that the team is all back together for this. There is a murder to be solved and a peace conference to save. Even Silver gets to make an appearance at the Fae representation in the investigations.
The thing I liked the most in this book was probably the Fae Princess and how her architype worked. I enjoy how the Fae interact in the world like the Fairy Tales they are pulled out of. The Dragon culture is interesting but it isn’t nearly as playful and fun as any of the Fae characters that we have seen.
At least the who will win Irene for the time being is answered in this book and I appreciate that even if I would have liked a smidge more depth to that as well.
Overall I enjoy the series and it is an easy read but I’m just looking for a little more connection to the characters.
There are a lot of things that I like about this series.
-Irene, Vale and Kia are all pretty likable characters who have a decent number of flaws to make them interesting
- The various worlds with different levels of order and chaos we travel to are also interesting.
- I idea of the library and it’s ambiguous involvement in each book’s crisis. I still have no idea if it is a mostly good or bad place.
- Each individual book plot. They are all different and episodic in nature.
But…I want to feel more attached to the characters at book five and it just isn’t happening for me.
I think part of the issue is that it does feel episodic in nature and so this could be any three people each new book. I don’t feel like I have emotions for the characters carrying over from the prior books. Then there is the feeling that we don’t every really dig any deeper into the characters beyond the surface layer. For example, we find out something about Irene’s parents in book two that I’m dying for her to have a conversation with them about. But now it is book 5 and even though they are physically close to Irene there is still no contact with them in this book. I feel like there are multiple things like this just thrown in and then never resolved.
The premise is a good one. Irene is the Library’s investigator to a secret delegation trying to work out a peace treaty between Dragon’s and the Fae when one of the Dragon’s is killed. Vale is also tapped to be in the mix because of his great detective skills and Kai finds a way to be close by as well. I love that the team is all back together for this. There is a murder to be solved and a peace conference to save. Even Silver gets to make an appearance at the Fae representation in the investigations.
The thing I liked the most in this book was probably the Fae Princess and how her architype worked. I enjoy how the Fae interact in the world like the Fairy Tales they are pulled out of. The Dragon culture is interesting but it isn’t nearly as playful and fun as any of the Fae characters that we have seen.
At least the who will win Irene for the time being is answered in this book and I appreciate that even if I would have liked a smidge more depth to that as well.
Overall I enjoy the series and it is an easy read but I’m just looking for a little more connection to the characters.
February 24, 2019
Real Rating: 4.75* of five
Unexpected. That's the best word I can use for this book. The resolution wasn't entirely unexpected but the path we're led down to get to it was. The murder was unexpected, the murderer was unexpected, the terrible trials of the heroes were largely unexpected.
Just how I like my series fiction.
At the end of book four, some serious developments take place that are central to the plot and climax of this book. If you haven't read The Lost Plot, stop reading and come back when you have.
So after Kai leaves Irene's tutelage and establishes a less romantically squicky relationship with her, we're treated to another of Author Cogman's exciting escapade-scenes to bring us to this story's reality: She starts off by wishing she still had Kai's backup for those tight corners she routinely ends up in. Then back to B-659 London to assist Peregrine Vale (whose rigid spurning in The Lost Plot of her determined sexual advances surprised me in no small degree) and Kai on a minor but intriguing case that's quickly and completely forgotten when Bradamant, of all people, shows up to demand Irene's presence among the Senior Librarians immediately.
And that's the starting bell for ten rounds of boxing, shadow boxing, and mixed martial arts cage-match to-the-death political, magical, and ethical battling. Irene manipulates events in her inimitable "why is it always me?" style. She gets Vale and Kai to the scene of a horrible crime despite the Librarians' unenthusiastic responses. She uses her position as a leader to lead everyone involved, whether her senior or another race's ruler, into a multiverse-changing brand new idea of diplomacy. She acts, in short, like Woodrow Wilson at Versailles in 1919.
The question is, has she birthed a United Nations or a League of Nations?
Unexpected. That's the best word I can use for this book. The resolution wasn't entirely unexpected but the path we're led down to get to it was. The murder was unexpected, the murderer was unexpected, the terrible trials of the heroes were largely unexpected.
Just how I like my series fiction.
At the end of book four, some serious developments take place that are central to the plot and climax of this book. If you haven't read The Lost Plot, stop reading and come back when you have.
So after Kai leaves Irene's tutelage and establishes a less romantically squicky relationship with her, we're treated to another of Author Cogman's exciting escapade-scenes to bring us to this story's reality: She starts off by wishing she still had Kai's backup for those tight corners she routinely ends up in. Then back to B-659 London to assist Peregrine Vale (whose rigid spurning in The Lost Plot of her determined sexual advances surprised me in no small degree) and Kai on a minor but intriguing case that's quickly and completely forgotten when Bradamant, of all people, shows up to demand Irene's presence among the Senior Librarians immediately.
And that's the starting bell for ten rounds of boxing, shadow boxing, and mixed martial arts cage-match to-the-death political, magical, and ethical battling. Irene manipulates events in her inimitable "why is it always me?" style. She gets Vale and Kai to the scene of a horrible crime despite the Librarians' unenthusiastic responses. She uses her position as a leader to lead everyone involved, whether her senior or another race's ruler, into a multiverse-changing brand new idea of diplomacy. She acts, in short, like Woodrow Wilson at Versailles in 1919.
The question is, has she birthed a United Nations or a League of Nations?
December 3, 2018
THE MORTAL WORD is the fifth book in The Invisible Library series. I've read every single book in the series and I could not wait to read this book. Irene's job is to steal rare books from different worlds for the Invisible Library. She loves her job, the adventures, the books. After a job in Germany, Irene learns about a secret Dragon-Foe peace conference that the Library is overseeing. But when a high- ranking Dragon is murdered, the peace talks come to a halt. Irene and her friend, private detective Vale, are ordered to go to 1890s Paris and investigate the murder and find out who killed the dragon, and why?
READ THE REST OF THE REVIEW OVER AT FRESH FICTION!
READ THE REST OF THE REVIEW OVER AT FRESH FICTION!
June 23, 2019
I feel almost bad giving The Mortal Word a higher rating than I've given many books of superior substance, depth, and literary merit. It's fluff. It's about kickass librarians with magical powers, fairies with archetypes that even they get trapped by, death via sugar plum as well as a knife in the back, a 19th century Paris that never quite was. It's not that this is a better book than, say Wuthering Heights, which I concede is worthy of analysis, deeply weird, and just as deeply unpleasant - hence a lukewarm three star rating - it's that I enjoyed it that much more.
Which is odd, because I can't say I'm very invested in any of the characters, even at book five in a series. But Genevieve Cogman writes fun, twisty plots and good action scenes, and the tongue-in-cheek humor is perfectly up my alley. In this latest outing, the resourceful and mostly unflappable Librarian Irene Winters is faced with solving a most delicate and perplexing murder: a top ranking dragon ambassador at a peace convention between the faeries (agents of chaos), the dragons (agents of order), and mortals (represented by Librarians). With each faction ready to blame another, and shady business going on behind the scenes in each, the situation is about to become - quite literally, as it turns out - explosive.
For readers who have become fond of Irene's primary companions - the Sherlock Holmes-y Vale and the dragon Kai, there's plenty of both of them in this one, and eager shippers may also appreciate some change on that front.
As usual, I don't think this series delivers on its promise of bibliophilism. There's another Librarian who goes by Borges, a couple references to a Herodotus work called Myths that doesn't exist in our world, but little beyond this kind of wink at well-read readers. Books are commodities in this series, and there's little time spent in the magical and all-encompassing Library that has things like the complete Wives and Daughters, lost Shakespeare plays, and scrolls from the library at Alexandria, taken before it burned. A pity.
I also continue to wonder if the Chinese dragon names reflect deliberate choices. It's hard to be sure, since Chinese is such a tonal language that 'ma' can mean anything from mother, numb, horse, or to scold depending on intonation and context, but Mu Dan could mean peony, Mei Feng (beautiful wind?) is a dragon air elemental, Ren Shen = ginseng? (Ironic, as ginseng is a traditional herb for longevity and this character is the murder victim.) The connections are just plausible enough to keep me wondering.
Quotes:
And:
Is it a coincidence that most of my favorite lines involve cats? Surely. Anyway: zippy, summery stuff with no pretensions to serious literature, and sometimes that's just what I'm in the mood for.
Which is odd, because I can't say I'm very invested in any of the characters, even at book five in a series. But Genevieve Cogman writes fun, twisty plots and good action scenes, and the tongue-in-cheek humor is perfectly up my alley. In this latest outing, the resourceful and mostly unflappable Librarian Irene Winters is faced with solving a most delicate and perplexing murder: a top ranking dragon ambassador at a peace convention between the faeries (agents of chaos), the dragons (agents of order), and mortals (represented by Librarians). With each faction ready to blame another, and shady business going on behind the scenes in each, the situation is about to become - quite literally, as it turns out - explosive.
For readers who have become fond of Irene's primary companions - the Sherlock Holmes-y Vale and the dragon Kai, there's plenty of both of them in this one, and eager shippers may also appreciate some change on that front.
As usual, I don't think this series delivers on its promise of bibliophilism. There's another Librarian who goes by Borges, a couple references to a Herodotus work called Myths that doesn't exist in our world, but little beyond this kind of wink at well-read readers. Books are commodities in this series, and there's little time spent in the magical and all-encompassing Library that has things like the complete Wives and Daughters, lost Shakespeare plays, and scrolls from the library at Alexandria, taken before it burned. A pity.
I also continue to wonder if the Chinese dragon names reflect deliberate choices. It's hard to be sure, since Chinese is such a tonal language that 'ma' can mean anything from mother, numb, horse, or to scold depending on intonation and context, but Mu Dan could mean peony, Mei Feng (beautiful wind?) is a dragon air elemental, Ren Shen = ginseng? (Ironic, as ginseng is a traditional herb for longevity and this character is the murder victim.) The connections are just plausible enough to keep me wondering.
Quotes:
And the Countess now knew about her and considered her a personal enemy - which in this case practically guaranteed that Irene would be a target. This was, in a way, good, inasmuch as being hunted by a bloodthirsty torturing cat-loving sadist could ever be considered good.
And:
And then she shrugged off her cape and used it to grab the cat, bundling it up in a mass of heavy fabric and fur. It was a risky move - laying unwanted hands on felines was always dangerous, even if they weren't possessed by ancient Fae countesses.
Is it a coincidence that most of my favorite lines involve cats? Surely. Anyway: zippy, summery stuff with no pretensions to serious literature, and sometimes that's just what I'm in the mood for.
November 28, 2018
This review can also be found at Carole's Random Life in Books.
This was another great installment in the Invisible Library series. I have really enjoyed all of the previous books in this series so I was really excited to read this new installment. This is the fifth book in the series and I do think that this is a series that is best read in order. I had a great time jumping back into this complex set of worlds and thought that the story was very well done.
In Paris of a neutral world, peace talks are being held between the dragons and Fae with the Library's help. When an important dragon is found murdered, Vale along with Irene are asked to travel to that world to investigate the murder. Kai goes ahead to help and be with his uncle, a Dragon King. They are quickly buried in a complex and far-reaching mystery that will have a great impact on the peace talks.
I think that I grow to love this group of characters a little bit more with each book. Irene is amazing. She is dedicated to doing what is right and getting the job done often at great risk to herself. I was happy to see that Vale plays such an important role in this book. He is such a skilled detective that is able to see what most others would miss. He insists on doing the job in the best manner possible and will not compromise himself for anyone else in any circumstance. Kai is incredibly strong but often underestimated. He is very supportive of Irene and has no problem deferring to her judgment.
I thought that this mystery was very complex and well executed. Since the murder occurs at a political event, there are a lot of Fae, dragon, and Library politics wrapped up into the mystery. There were so many factors at play and individuals that seemed less than trustworthy. I love how original each book in this series is since they are all set in worlds with their own set of rules. The special abilities of the Fae, dragons, and Librarians always seem to keep things interesting. I really enjoy the way that Irene is able to apply the use of the Library's Language to each situation and think on her feet. There are a whole lot of exciting scenes to keep this one interesting.
I would recommend this series to others. It is such a well-done series with great characters and remarkable world-building. I cannot wait to read more of Irene, Kai, and Vale's adventures in future installments.
I received a digital review copy of this book from Berkley Publishing Group via NetGalley.
Initial Thoughts
Another great installment in the series. Irene finds herself trying to solve a murder along with Vale, Kai, and others. The mystery kept me guessing until the very end and there was plenty of action along the way. I did enjoy the progression of the personal relationships in the series as well.
This was another great installment in the Invisible Library series. I have really enjoyed all of the previous books in this series so I was really excited to read this new installment. This is the fifth book in the series and I do think that this is a series that is best read in order. I had a great time jumping back into this complex set of worlds and thought that the story was very well done.
In Paris of a neutral world, peace talks are being held between the dragons and Fae with the Library's help. When an important dragon is found murdered, Vale along with Irene are asked to travel to that world to investigate the murder. Kai goes ahead to help and be with his uncle, a Dragon King. They are quickly buried in a complex and far-reaching mystery that will have a great impact on the peace talks.
I think that I grow to love this group of characters a little bit more with each book. Irene is amazing. She is dedicated to doing what is right and getting the job done often at great risk to herself. I was happy to see that Vale plays such an important role in this book. He is such a skilled detective that is able to see what most others would miss. He insists on doing the job in the best manner possible and will not compromise himself for anyone else in any circumstance. Kai is incredibly strong but often underestimated. He is very supportive of Irene and has no problem deferring to her judgment.
I thought that this mystery was very complex and well executed. Since the murder occurs at a political event, there are a lot of Fae, dragon, and Library politics wrapped up into the mystery. There were so many factors at play and individuals that seemed less than trustworthy. I love how original each book in this series is since they are all set in worlds with their own set of rules. The special abilities of the Fae, dragons, and Librarians always seem to keep things interesting. I really enjoy the way that Irene is able to apply the use of the Library's Language to each situation and think on her feet. There are a whole lot of exciting scenes to keep this one interesting.
I would recommend this series to others. It is such a well-done series with great characters and remarkable world-building. I cannot wait to read more of Irene, Kai, and Vale's adventures in future installments.
I received a digital review copy of this book from Berkley Publishing Group via NetGalley.
Initial Thoughts
Another great installment in the series. Irene finds herself trying to solve a murder along with Vale, Kai, and others. The mystery kept me guessing until the very end and there was plenty of action along the way. I did enjoy the progression of the personal relationships in the series as well.
December 20, 2018
4 of 5 stars at The BiblioSanctum https://bibliosanctum.com/2018/12/18/...
If there’s one thing I can say about The Invisible Library series, it’s that I can count on the books being consistently solid and entertaining. That’s why I always look forward to picking up the next installment, and that was most definitely the case too with The Mortal Word.
In this fifth volume of the series, the war between the Fae and Dragon-kind is heating up. Attempts to broker a peace treaty are jeopardized when a high-level dragon is found stabbed to death, and naturally the dragons are quick to point the finger at their sworn enemies, the Fae. Our protagonist, the time-traveling, parallel-worlds-hopping, book-stealing Librarian agent Irene Winters, is thus tasked to get to the bottom of who committed the murder before the situation can devolve any further. Joining Irene on the investigation is also Vale, her talented detective friend, along with some backup from dragon prince and former Library apprentice Kai.
Meanwhile, the peace talks must go on. As a representative of the Library, Irene must oversee the meeting with the eye of a neutral mediator, as well as ensure that the process goes smoothly. However, someone is bent on disrupting the talks with poisoning and deadly sabotage attempts, causing even more trouble for Irene and her team. With the stakes so high, anything can happen now to tip the fragile balance between Order and Chaos, potentially threatening the fate of countless worlds connected to the great interdimensional Library.
Somewhat breaking with tradition, this installment does not involve much book stealing or hunting. Instead, granting Irene one of her long-held childhood dreams, Genevieve Cogman sends her protagonist sleuthing in an entertaining and wonderfully executed murder mystery plot. It was quite a treat to see Irene relish in this role, which includes plenty of new responsibilities requiring her to exercise different talents and skills. But it’s not all fun and games as our girl learns that with leadership also comes accountability and all the pressures that come along with it. Worse, her new position plunges her into the complicated world of Library politics, and more than once, Irene is forced to pit her own professional standards against her loyalties and natural instincts to follow orders.
By following a more traditional mystery plot, however, this book also features a more conventional storyline as well as a less elaborate and flamboyant setting. Compared to The Lost Plot, the previous novel which transported readers to a world reminiscent of the American Roaring Twenties complete with fedora-wearing, tommy gun-toting, jazz-listening gangsters, the worlds of The Mortal Word seemed downright tame. However, Cogman knows balance. The areas of character development and relationship dynamics are where this one shines. As a Vale fan, I was very happy with the prominent part he ended up playing in this novel. I was also pleased with the attention given to the bond between Irene and Kai, especially given the all the recent challenges they’ve been through together. I also loved how the story made more room for characters like Lord Silver, as well as some truly fascinating Fae figures like the countess or the princess.
All told, this was another exciting and fun-filled romp through the myriad worlds of The Invisible Library along with my favorite Librarian spy, and I particularly enjoyed the elements of mystery and intrigue that featured so strongly in The Mortal Word. The combination of humor, adventure and the constant pleasure of not knowing what to expect always makes picking up an installment of this series a special treat. Every book is a surprise, and I’m eager to find out where Genevieve Cogman will take her fans next.
If there’s one thing I can say about The Invisible Library series, it’s that I can count on the books being consistently solid and entertaining. That’s why I always look forward to picking up the next installment, and that was most definitely the case too with The Mortal Word.
In this fifth volume of the series, the war between the Fae and Dragon-kind is heating up. Attempts to broker a peace treaty are jeopardized when a high-level dragon is found stabbed to death, and naturally the dragons are quick to point the finger at their sworn enemies, the Fae. Our protagonist, the time-traveling, parallel-worlds-hopping, book-stealing Librarian agent Irene Winters, is thus tasked to get to the bottom of who committed the murder before the situation can devolve any further. Joining Irene on the investigation is also Vale, her talented detective friend, along with some backup from dragon prince and former Library apprentice Kai.
Meanwhile, the peace talks must go on. As a representative of the Library, Irene must oversee the meeting with the eye of a neutral mediator, as well as ensure that the process goes smoothly. However, someone is bent on disrupting the talks with poisoning and deadly sabotage attempts, causing even more trouble for Irene and her team. With the stakes so high, anything can happen now to tip the fragile balance between Order and Chaos, potentially threatening the fate of countless worlds connected to the great interdimensional Library.
Somewhat breaking with tradition, this installment does not involve much book stealing or hunting. Instead, granting Irene one of her long-held childhood dreams, Genevieve Cogman sends her protagonist sleuthing in an entertaining and wonderfully executed murder mystery plot. It was quite a treat to see Irene relish in this role, which includes plenty of new responsibilities requiring her to exercise different talents and skills. But it’s not all fun and games as our girl learns that with leadership also comes accountability and all the pressures that come along with it. Worse, her new position plunges her into the complicated world of Library politics, and more than once, Irene is forced to pit her own professional standards against her loyalties and natural instincts to follow orders.
By following a more traditional mystery plot, however, this book also features a more conventional storyline as well as a less elaborate and flamboyant setting. Compared to The Lost Plot, the previous novel which transported readers to a world reminiscent of the American Roaring Twenties complete with fedora-wearing, tommy gun-toting, jazz-listening gangsters, the worlds of The Mortal Word seemed downright tame. However, Cogman knows balance. The areas of character development and relationship dynamics are where this one shines. As a Vale fan, I was very happy with the prominent part he ended up playing in this novel. I was also pleased with the attention given to the bond between Irene and Kai, especially given the all the recent challenges they’ve been through together. I also loved how the story made more room for characters like Lord Silver, as well as some truly fascinating Fae figures like the countess or the princess.
All told, this was another exciting and fun-filled romp through the myriad worlds of The Invisible Library along with my favorite Librarian spy, and I particularly enjoyed the elements of mystery and intrigue that featured so strongly in The Mortal Word. The combination of humor, adventure and the constant pleasure of not knowing what to expect always makes picking up an installment of this series a special treat. Every book is a surprise, and I’m eager to find out where Genevieve Cogman will take her fans next.
July 6, 2025
I've been enjoying this series as audiobooks. The narrator, Kristin Atherton is excellent. This one dragged quite a bit in the middle. The fay and dragons are going to sign a peace treaty - a dragon dies and Irene and company are asked to investigate. The stakes if Irene doesn't figure out the killer is repeated over and over and over again. Not just the damage to the Library's reputation and her career, but her parents as well. The same parents who
February 11, 2025
in this book, the story follows Irene, a Librarian and spy for the Library, as she navigates a world filled with magical factions and alternate realities. this time, Irene is tasked with investigating a murder at a diplomatic event between the dragons and the Fae, two powerful factions that have historically been at odds. the murder threatens the fragile peace between the two and Irene must uncover the truth behind it. along with her trusty assistant, Kai, Irene becomes entangled in a complex web of political intrigue, dangerous secrets and ancient rivalries. as the investigation unfolds, Irene faces challenges not only from external forces but also from within herself as she confronts her loyalty, her relationships and her own evolving role within the Library.
it is a thoroughly enjoyable and immersive read, continuing the series' hallmark blend of mystery, magic and intriguing world-building. Genevieve Cogman has expertly woven together complex political dynamics with personal stakes, keeping the tension high throughout. Irene remains a compelling and multi-dimensional protagonist, grappling with the delicate balance of being a Librarian, a protector of knowledge and a person with her own emotions and relationships. her evolving relationship with Kai, along with the evolving tension between the different factions, adds a layer of depth that keeps the narrative fresh.
one of the highlights of the book is its vibrant setting. the mix of magical systems, the contrasting factions and the alternate worlds the characters navigate all contribute to a rich and layered world that feels fully realized and fascinating. Cogman excels at introducing new concepts and settings while maintaining a sense of familiarity for long-time readers of the series.
the plot itself is well-paced, with Cogman’s usual deft touch for balancing action, mystery and character development. the murder investigation at the heart of the story provides a solid backbone for the narrative, but it’s the larger political implications and the emotional stakes that truly elevate this book. the mystery is compelling, with plenty of twists and turns to keep you guessing and by the end, the resolutions feel satisfying, though not without leaving room for further exploration in future books.
the story unfolds in a way that feels natural, gradually building up to its tense and emotional climax. while the narrative contains its fair share of darker moments, the overall tone remains engaging and thought-provoking, with the occasional moments of humor and levity that offer a nice balance.
overall, it is a strong continuation of the series, offering an excellent blend of adventure, mystery and character development. it delivers what fans of the series have come to expect while also expanding the world and its possibilities. this book does a fantastic job of keeping the series engaging for both long-time readers and newcomers alike with rich world-building and characters you care about.
it is a thoroughly enjoyable and immersive read, continuing the series' hallmark blend of mystery, magic and intriguing world-building. Genevieve Cogman has expertly woven together complex political dynamics with personal stakes, keeping the tension high throughout. Irene remains a compelling and multi-dimensional protagonist, grappling with the delicate balance of being a Librarian, a protector of knowledge and a person with her own emotions and relationships. her evolving relationship with Kai, along with the evolving tension between the different factions, adds a layer of depth that keeps the narrative fresh.
one of the highlights of the book is its vibrant setting. the mix of magical systems, the contrasting factions and the alternate worlds the characters navigate all contribute to a rich and layered world that feels fully realized and fascinating. Cogman excels at introducing new concepts and settings while maintaining a sense of familiarity for long-time readers of the series.
the plot itself is well-paced, with Cogman’s usual deft touch for balancing action, mystery and character development. the murder investigation at the heart of the story provides a solid backbone for the narrative, but it’s the larger political implications and the emotional stakes that truly elevate this book. the mystery is compelling, with plenty of twists and turns to keep you guessing and by the end, the resolutions feel satisfying, though not without leaving room for further exploration in future books.
the story unfolds in a way that feels natural, gradually building up to its tense and emotional climax. while the narrative contains its fair share of darker moments, the overall tone remains engaging and thought-provoking, with the occasional moments of humor and levity that offer a nice balance.
overall, it is a strong continuation of the series, offering an excellent blend of adventure, mystery and character development. it delivers what fans of the series have come to expect while also expanding the world and its possibilities. this book does a fantastic job of keeping the series engaging for both long-time readers and newcomers alike with rich world-building and characters you care about.
June 18, 2021
I have a rather strange relationship with this series. I buy them and when I start them think I won't buy any more! As I read on I get around to "I guess this one isn't too bad" and by the end I'm thinking it's OK!! I do like some of the scrapes that Irene manages to get into and parts of this entertained. However I doubt I'll read another for a while. 3.5/5
February 16, 2019
2.5 stars.
I was really hoping that the relationship between the h and her dragon friend would have progressed further by now. As interesting as the world that Genevieve Cogman has created is, it's not quite enough for me to fully invested without a decently developed relationship to go along with it. Because I have some serious questions. Questions that, as much as I have fun reading stories taking place in this strange world, beg for answers. Such as: if there are some authors who have existed in many different alternates, as evidenced by the existence of their works, albeit with variations from one world to the next, wouldn't it also be logical to assume that there are many Irene Winters and Vales in the worlds too? (I will graciously exempt the dragons and Fae from this logic, since they aren't entirely logical. No, not even the dragons, despite their protestations on the contrary.) Where have the other Irene Winters gone? How come she's not running into alternate versions of herself? And why doesn't she need to actively avoid her other selves lest there be another element that might rip the world, along with all its alternates, asunder? Hm, I tell you.
Another issue that really bothers me is Irene's parents. I thought that we'd have the pleasure of finally meeting them in this book. It was pretty early on in this book, in fact, when their near proximity to the h was mentioned. But they didn't get any page time. At all. Other than Irene mentioning that they were hostages of the peace negotiations. And Irene herself is too busy to go look for them. Again. I guess it's all getting a bit mundane. And if a book has dragons, Fae, an invisible Library, chaos, and a whole heap of other elements thrown into the mix, can become mundane, that's a red flag right there for me.
There's also the long, drawn out question of "what's an immortal dragon and an oh so mortal Librarian going to do in the long run?" Other than avoiding the question for books at a time, of course. Now please don't mistake what I'm saying here. The writing is just fine. I have no problems hunkering down, getting drawn into the story, and reading at the exclusion of other more pressing chores. However, when I'm done, the inevitable feeling I have is "that's it?". Maybe I'm just a picky pooh, but I'm going to let all the lovely readers on GR read #6 before I find myself in that situation with Genevieve Cogman again.
I was really hoping that the relationship between the h and her dragon friend would have progressed further by now. As interesting as the world that Genevieve Cogman has created is, it's not quite enough for me to fully invested without a decently developed relationship to go along with it. Because I have some serious questions. Questions that, as much as I have fun reading stories taking place in this strange world, beg for answers. Such as: if there are some authors who have existed in many different alternates, as evidenced by the existence of their works, albeit with variations from one world to the next, wouldn't it also be logical to assume that there are many Irene Winters and Vales in the worlds too? (I will graciously exempt the dragons and Fae from this logic, since they aren't entirely logical. No, not even the dragons, despite their protestations on the contrary.) Where have the other Irene Winters gone? How come she's not running into alternate versions of herself? And why doesn't she need to actively avoid her other selves lest there be another element that might rip the world, along with all its alternates, asunder? Hm, I tell you.
Another issue that really bothers me is Irene's parents. I thought that we'd have the pleasure of finally meeting them in this book. It was pretty early on in this book, in fact, when their near proximity to the h was mentioned. But they didn't get any page time. At all. Other than Irene mentioning that they were hostages of the peace negotiations. And Irene herself is too busy to go look for them. Again. I guess it's all getting a bit mundane. And if a book has dragons, Fae, an invisible Library, chaos, and a whole heap of other elements thrown into the mix, can become mundane, that's a red flag right there for me.
There's also the long, drawn out question of "what's an immortal dragon and an oh so mortal Librarian going to do in the long run?" Other than avoiding the question for books at a time, of course. Now please don't mistake what I'm saying here. The writing is just fine. I have no problems hunkering down, getting drawn into the story, and reading at the exclusion of other more pressing chores. However, when I'm done, the inevitable feeling I have is "that's it?". Maybe I'm just a picky pooh, but I'm going to let all the lovely readers on GR read #6 before I find myself in that situation with Genevieve Cogman again.
August 28, 2024
Being away from this world for so long, did make it hard to jump back in. I had to find the groove of it again, but once I did I had a fantastic time. It has a good mystery to it with a conclusion I honestly did not see coming.
We of course have more mentions of our big bad (is he gone or isn't he?) and the romance does move forward, but it isn't highlighted, as usual.
This world and the characters really are the best at sweeping me away to different worlds. I'm really excited for the next books :D
-------
Before publication:
I don't even need to know what this is about to be overly excited to read it. The last book has left me feeling so many emotions and I will be overjoyed to jump back into this series when this book comes out.
We of course have more mentions of our big bad (is he gone or isn't he?) and the romance does move forward, but it isn't highlighted, as usual.
This world and the characters really are the best at sweeping me away to different worlds. I'm really excited for the next books :D
-------
Before publication:
I don't even need to know what this is about to be overly excited to read it. The last book has left me feeling so many emotions and I will be overjoyed to jump back into this series when this book comes out.
December 21, 2018
Actual rating: 3.75
October 27, 2020
Non stop action; all my favourite characters; devious and cunning plots abound with shenanigans galore!
April 26, 2019
2019 Re-read
When life gets complicated, my reading needs simplify. Ms. Cogman’s Invisible Library series had seen me through a challenging week of no running water and cat care duties.
Once again into the breach! Irene may be a junior librarian, but she has shown her ability to think on her feet, to use the Language to great effect, and to recruit allies and protect friends. I was glad to have Lord Silver back in this volume--I always love his Fae ways and his casual attempts to seduce Irene. Once again, there is Dragon drama! (There is always drama among the Fae, they thrive on it.) This time, Irene must save the Peace Conference, while keeping the Library intact and her friends on the right side of the sod. Not an easy task and requiring plenty of bravery and quick decisions.
I desperately hope that there are more adventures forthcoming! At this point, Ms. Cogman’s website indicates that Book Six is well underway, which gives me something to desire intensely. This is a universe that is just too good to abandon without a struggle.
When life gets complicated, my reading needs simplify. Ms. Cogman’s Invisible Library series had seen me through a challenging week of no running water and cat care duties.
Once again into the breach! Irene may be a junior librarian, but she has shown her ability to think on her feet, to use the Language to great effect, and to recruit allies and protect friends. I was glad to have Lord Silver back in this volume--I always love his Fae ways and his casual attempts to seduce Irene. Once again, there is Dragon drama! (There is always drama among the Fae, they thrive on it.) This time, Irene must save the Peace Conference, while keeping the Library intact and her friends on the right side of the sod. Not an easy task and requiring plenty of bravery and quick decisions.
I desperately hope that there are more adventures forthcoming! At this point, Ms. Cogman’s website indicates that Book Six is well underway, which gives me something to desire intensely. This is a universe that is just too good to abandon without a struggle.
February 29, 2020
3.5 Stars.
November 20, 2018
This review was originally posted on Books of My Heart
Review copy was received from NetGalley. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
I've been reading and enjoying The Invisible Library series since the beginning. The world-building is almost a fresh start in each book since Irene travels. She has been assigned a home world where she lives and has some regular friends and frenemies. There are a few Library characters who are around throughout the series. There's a long-time villian. But the primary contacts for Irene are the detective, Vale and the dragon, Kai. I thought at one point she was going to have a romance with Vale but it now looks like she will be with Kai.
I'm not very invested in any romance. I'm more involved in learning about the overall universe and what the heck is going on with the Library. The Mortal Word is the most exciting to date. The Library is hosting peace talks between the dragons and the fae. One of the dragons is murdered. A team is brought in to investigate and Irene is the defacto leader. It includes Irene (library), Vale (human), Silver (fae) and Mu Dan (dragon).
It's ironic since we see the world through Irene's eyes how she knows so little overall about the Library and so much about various worlds, the fae and the dragons. Irene has become an accomplished adventurer using her knowledge and skills to find the truth in every situation. The mystery here was complex with many attempts to frame others for the murder. The politics are extremely difficult and put their lives in danger.
I loved every minute of learning even more about the dragons and fae with Irene; this was brilliant! I can't wait to see how things go next time and I'm more than curious to finally learn more about the Library itself.
Review copy was received from NetGalley. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
I've been reading and enjoying The Invisible Library series since the beginning. The world-building is almost a fresh start in each book since Irene travels. She has been assigned a home world where she lives and has some regular friends and frenemies. There are a few Library characters who are around throughout the series. There's a long-time villian. But the primary contacts for Irene are the detective, Vale and the dragon, Kai. I thought at one point she was going to have a romance with Vale but it now looks like she will be with Kai.
I'm not very invested in any romance. I'm more involved in learning about the overall universe and what the heck is going on with the Library. The Mortal Word is the most exciting to date. The Library is hosting peace talks between the dragons and the fae. One of the dragons is murdered. A team is brought in to investigate and Irene is the defacto leader. It includes Irene (library), Vale (human), Silver (fae) and Mu Dan (dragon).
It's ironic since we see the world through Irene's eyes how she knows so little overall about the Library and so much about various worlds, the fae and the dragons. Irene has become an accomplished adventurer using her knowledge and skills to find the truth in every situation. The mystery here was complex with many attempts to frame others for the murder. The politics are extremely difficult and put their lives in danger.
I loved every minute of learning even more about the dragons and fae with Irene; this was brilliant! I can't wait to see how things go next time and I'm more than curious to finally learn more about the Library itself.
November 28, 2018
The Invisible Library series is one of the most imaginative series in existence at the moment – especially for those of us who are absolute book addicts- it’s a heady mix of Literary adventures, magic, multiple worlds and books that hold the universe together. There’s dragon’s too. Just saying. Oh and Fae, must not forget them. Well unless they want you to of course…
Irene is a librarian, a spy, a kind of thief if you like and quite often saves the world(s)…
Over the course of the novels Genevieve Cogman has built a beautifully complex and hugely addictive mythology, the library and its power, the multiple worlds Irene visits, there is a vivid brilliance to all of it that just immerses you into the stories.
The Mortal Word finds Irene on the hunt for a killer, one determined to destroy the already tenuous peace negotiations between Dragon and Fae. With political machinations, multiple possibilities, Fae chaos and Dragon anger, she’s got her work cut out for her. With magic and mayhem afoot, she and her cohorts, Vale (Sherlock Holmes pretty much) and love interest Kai (who just happens to be a dragon) must face down all the odds.
Once again this was an amazing read, intelligent, multi layered, adventurous and an absolute page turner. You just never know what’s coming next, from possessed felines to poisonous apples – it is wonderfully unpredictable, you just get hypnotised by it all from first page to last.
Loved it again. Every story opens up the possibility for more and I can’t imagine ever getting bored with Irene’s world – let’s hope she has many more adventures ahead.
Highly Recommended. Read them all.
Irene is a librarian, a spy, a kind of thief if you like and quite often saves the world(s)…
Over the course of the novels Genevieve Cogman has built a beautifully complex and hugely addictive mythology, the library and its power, the multiple worlds Irene visits, there is a vivid brilliance to all of it that just immerses you into the stories.
The Mortal Word finds Irene on the hunt for a killer, one determined to destroy the already tenuous peace negotiations between Dragon and Fae. With political machinations, multiple possibilities, Fae chaos and Dragon anger, she’s got her work cut out for her. With magic and mayhem afoot, she and her cohorts, Vale (Sherlock Holmes pretty much) and love interest Kai (who just happens to be a dragon) must face down all the odds.
Once again this was an amazing read, intelligent, multi layered, adventurous and an absolute page turner. You just never know what’s coming next, from possessed felines to poisonous apples – it is wonderfully unpredictable, you just get hypnotised by it all from first page to last.
Loved it again. Every story opens up the possibility for more and I can’t imagine ever getting bored with Irene’s world – let’s hope she has many more adventures ahead.
Highly Recommended. Read them all.
February 27, 2020
"I'm a librarian. And a spy. And it's time I focused on that."
The 5th book of the series has it all. Adventure, passion, murders, politics, fae, dragons, librarians with the scenery of Paris.
The secret library in audiobooks are a guilty pleasure of mine! Why guilty you might ask? Well, it's nothing sooo great, but it makes me feel good, and cozy and comfortable. The narrator, Susan Duerden, does a great job. Irene (the protagonist) is a character that one can easily identified with - especially if you're a woman. You don't need to think too much. It isn't YA, but feels like it most of the time. The books are not flawless, but I always have a good time and can't wait to listen to the next one.
"Am I risking my own happiness because I'm too paranoid to accept a gift?"
3.5stars
December 27, 2018
The Mortal Word is the fifth installment in Genevieve Cogman's delightful Invisible Library series, which follows the adventures of Irene Winters. As an agent of the Library that exists outside of space and time, Irene travels to various alternate worlds and collects (okay, steals) books to add to their reserves.
Though the first chapter and the last 80 pages or so are quite engaging, I think The Mortal Word is the weakest installment in the series so far. It has some fun parts, but the middle focusing on the dragon murder investigation seems rather slow at times for a few reasons (including a lack of the undercover shenanigans that Irene revels in!).
Full Review on My Website
Though the first chapter and the last 80 pages or so are quite engaging, I think The Mortal Word is the weakest installment in the series so far. It has some fun parts, but the middle focusing on the dragon murder investigation seems rather slow at times for a few reasons (including a lack of the undercover shenanigans that Irene revels in!).
Full Review on My Website
November 30, 2018
Originally published at Reading Reality
In this version of the multiverse the Library serves to provide the balance between the fae worlds of chaos and the dragon worlds of order. Humans don’t do well at either extreme, and it’s the Library’s function to guard and preserve the middle ground where human beings thrive.
Just because the Library serves as a point of balance does not mean that the lives of any of the Librarians that serve it are remotely balanced in any way. It could be said that the Librarians are like that metaphorical duck, “calm on the surface but always paddling like the dickens underneath.”
Librarian Irene Winters’ life feels more like the old adage about jumping out of the frying pan and into the fire – except that for Irene, it’s frying pans and fires all the way down.
When I first started this series, all the way back with The Invisible Library, it felt a lot like the Thursday Next series by Jasper Fforde, because both stories are all about the power of words, especially the power of words in books.
But now that we’re five books in, that resemblance has faded. As much as I loved The Eyre Affair, the first Thursday Next book, the series as a whole felt like a one-trick-pony, or a story that was only “funny once” and not “funny always”. It seemed as if the story was more interested in being incessantly clever than in telling a story – or that there wasn’t nearly enough worldbuilding underneath the gimmick to sustain a series.
What makes The Invisible Library different – and better as a series – is that there is plenty of worldbuilding below the madcap adventure. And you really, really need to start with the first book for the world to make sense – because the scaffolding of that worldbuilding becomes more solid with each story.
And they are absolutely oodles of fun – every single one. That there will be at least THREE MORE after this one is excellent news.
Because while this book does have a story that wraps up within the volume, as does every entry in the series so far, it is equally clear that the author is not done with either the world of the Library or the life and adventures of this particular Librarian.
And neither are the readers.
Escape Rating A: This is a complex story in a complicated world. I can’t imagine it making much sense without having read the previous volumes first. And possibly recently. Certainly this is a series that rewards readers who have knowledge of how our heroine got into the fix she’s currently in, and how much her previous fixes – and the fixes for those fixes – have contributed (or conspired) to put her in the awkward, uncomfortable and dangerous place she now finds herself.
I also have the distinct impression that one of these days Irene is going to stop being expendable to the Library and become a power within it, but that day is not yet. And first she has to survive her expendability. That’s never an easy task, as Irene has a tendency to be the fool that rushes in where the angels quaver to tread.
One of the things that I have found fascinating about this series is its treatment of good vs. evil, because there really isn’t one. Individuals commit terrible acts in the service of their particular perspective on the eternal argument, but the eternal argument in this world is between order and chaos, and explicitly not between good and evil.
The plot in The Mortal Word is essentially that of a murder mystery with political overtones. The dragons and the fae are meeting on a neutral world in order to forge a peace treaty. Or at least a non-aggression pact. The Library will take whatever it can get, and it is the Library that is brokering this attempt at detente.
In the middle of the negotiations, someone is murdered. As much high tension as is in the air, it’s not actually surprising that someone ends up dead. However, the victim was the most trusted lieutenant of the dragon monarch who represents that side of this equation. While said monarch wants to blame his arch-enemies the fae for the murder, he also claims that the victim implicated the Library in a possible plot to sabotage the negotiations.
Events are at a standstill until the perpetrator is discovered, and that’s when Irene is brought in. Yes, because she’s expendable. She’s always aware that she will take the blame if anything goes wrong – or if the solution is not satisfactory to all the parties involved. Which is far from the same thing.
She is both shadowed and assisted by agents from both of the courts, and there is treachery at every turn, as well as an entire city full of red herrings – some of them still bloody.
But Irene’s adventures, as she doggedly – and very, very dangerously – follows the clues to their unpopular but necessary conclusion, are always worth following. Every twisty step of the way.
I can’t wait for her next adventure!
In this version of the multiverse the Library serves to provide the balance between the fae worlds of chaos and the dragon worlds of order. Humans don’t do well at either extreme, and it’s the Library’s function to guard and preserve the middle ground where human beings thrive.
Just because the Library serves as a point of balance does not mean that the lives of any of the Librarians that serve it are remotely balanced in any way. It could be said that the Librarians are like that metaphorical duck, “calm on the surface but always paddling like the dickens underneath.”
Librarian Irene Winters’ life feels more like the old adage about jumping out of the frying pan and into the fire – except that for Irene, it’s frying pans and fires all the way down.
When I first started this series, all the way back with The Invisible Library, it felt a lot like the Thursday Next series by Jasper Fforde, because both stories are all about the power of words, especially the power of words in books.
But now that we’re five books in, that resemblance has faded. As much as I loved The Eyre Affair, the first Thursday Next book, the series as a whole felt like a one-trick-pony, or a story that was only “funny once” and not “funny always”. It seemed as if the story was more interested in being incessantly clever than in telling a story – or that there wasn’t nearly enough worldbuilding underneath the gimmick to sustain a series.
What makes The Invisible Library different – and better as a series – is that there is plenty of worldbuilding below the madcap adventure. And you really, really need to start with the first book for the world to make sense – because the scaffolding of that worldbuilding becomes more solid with each story.
And they are absolutely oodles of fun – every single one. That there will be at least THREE MORE after this one is excellent news.
Because while this book does have a story that wraps up within the volume, as does every entry in the series so far, it is equally clear that the author is not done with either the world of the Library or the life and adventures of this particular Librarian.
And neither are the readers.
Escape Rating A: This is a complex story in a complicated world. I can’t imagine it making much sense without having read the previous volumes first. And possibly recently. Certainly this is a series that rewards readers who have knowledge of how our heroine got into the fix she’s currently in, and how much her previous fixes – and the fixes for those fixes – have contributed (or conspired) to put her in the awkward, uncomfortable and dangerous place she now finds herself.
I also have the distinct impression that one of these days Irene is going to stop being expendable to the Library and become a power within it, but that day is not yet. And first she has to survive her expendability. That’s never an easy task, as Irene has a tendency to be the fool that rushes in where the angels quaver to tread.
One of the things that I have found fascinating about this series is its treatment of good vs. evil, because there really isn’t one. Individuals commit terrible acts in the service of their particular perspective on the eternal argument, but the eternal argument in this world is between order and chaos, and explicitly not between good and evil.
The plot in The Mortal Word is essentially that of a murder mystery with political overtones. The dragons and the fae are meeting on a neutral world in order to forge a peace treaty. Or at least a non-aggression pact. The Library will take whatever it can get, and it is the Library that is brokering this attempt at detente.
In the middle of the negotiations, someone is murdered. As much high tension as is in the air, it’s not actually surprising that someone ends up dead. However, the victim was the most trusted lieutenant of the dragon monarch who represents that side of this equation. While said monarch wants to blame his arch-enemies the fae for the murder, he also claims that the victim implicated the Library in a possible plot to sabotage the negotiations.
Events are at a standstill until the perpetrator is discovered, and that’s when Irene is brought in. Yes, because she’s expendable. She’s always aware that she will take the blame if anything goes wrong – or if the solution is not satisfactory to all the parties involved. Which is far from the same thing.
She is both shadowed and assisted by agents from both of the courts, and there is treachery at every turn, as well as an entire city full of red herrings – some of them still bloody.
But Irene’s adventures, as she doggedly – and very, very dangerously – follows the clues to their unpopular but necessary conclusion, are always worth following. Every twisty step of the way.
I can’t wait for her next adventure!
February 25, 2024
Another fun adventure with the crew, this time a murder mystery.
May 21, 2019
Although the book was OK, I have to give it two stars as I feel this series has just progressively gotten worse through the books. I couldn’t help but notice that I didn’t care about any of the characters or their story in this one and so I think I it is time for me to let this series go. It started off so strong and characters were developed and well written by the second book. Now, they all seem flat and self centred and unlikeable.
February 23, 2019
Please tell me the next book will be out soon, I know I could have just picked up right where this one left off!
December 7, 2018
I was so excited when I got approved for the ARC of this book, especially because I was rejected same time last year for The Lost Plot and it felt like an affirmation that I’m now a capable blogger 😉😉😉 And I’m so glad to have read this book because it has all the wonderful elements that I have loved in the series with an extra dose of politics that I really enjoyed.
Irene is such a strong female character that I’m surprised she is not talked about more in the book community. She fights with the tools she knows best – words, language, knowledge, manipulation and the resilience to seem unaffected even during the most desperate of situations. In this installment, she is called on to use her quick wit even more because she has to deal with the intricacies of politics between the Dragons and the Fae and even a small misstep can have grave consequences for the fate of humankind. She juggles being deferential towards the dragon royalty, trying not to get caught up in the stories of the fae, dealing with the possibility of betrayal from Librarians – all while trying to be an impartial investigator and find the true culprit (even when no seems to want her to do that). She has to fight off the Blood Countess, possessed cats, poisonous apples, gas filled cakes and so much more to ensure that the peace treaty is signed and the Library remains neutral.
I was doubly excited in this book because Vale travels alongwith Irene to investigate the murder and I really wanted to see him again in his element but in an environment he doesn’t know well. We get to see glimpses of his genius, his ability to conduct his investigation with conviction and never swaying in front of the dragons or fae. He also comes to the right conclusions as Irene even if by different methods. However, what disappointed me was the it’s still Irene who takes the lead and after a point, Vale becomes a sidekick who shows up on page when the story needs it. I would have loved to see more of them working together.
The plot is even more action packed in this book because there are always assassination attempts or kidnappings happening and Irene has to think on her feet and get out of all these tricky situations. Her immense talents are on full display and it was truly a delight to read. We also get to know so much more about the court politics of the dragons and how much the dragons and fae can’t stand each other. Every page in the story felt so significant because I was very invested in the outcome of the peace conference and was wondering how Irene’s findings would impact it. The end battle was very intense and on a scale not seen in this series before. The ending really expands the scope of this universe and I can’t wait to see what Irene and Kai will do in their new roles.
If you love books and mysteries and adventures featuring a strong female character, I recommend you leave everything else aside and pick up this series. Every book in the series expands the scope of this universe and it has been a wonderful journey. And I’m very happy to know that there might be a couple more upcoming in this series.
Irene is such a strong female character that I’m surprised she is not talked about more in the book community. She fights with the tools she knows best – words, language, knowledge, manipulation and the resilience to seem unaffected even during the most desperate of situations. In this installment, she is called on to use her quick wit even more because she has to deal with the intricacies of politics between the Dragons and the Fae and even a small misstep can have grave consequences for the fate of humankind. She juggles being deferential towards the dragon royalty, trying not to get caught up in the stories of the fae, dealing with the possibility of betrayal from Librarians – all while trying to be an impartial investigator and find the true culprit (even when no seems to want her to do that). She has to fight off the Blood Countess, possessed cats, poisonous apples, gas filled cakes and so much more to ensure that the peace treaty is signed and the Library remains neutral.
I was doubly excited in this book because Vale travels alongwith Irene to investigate the murder and I really wanted to see him again in his element but in an environment he doesn’t know well. We get to see glimpses of his genius, his ability to conduct his investigation with conviction and never swaying in front of the dragons or fae. He also comes to the right conclusions as Irene even if by different methods. However, what disappointed me was the it’s still Irene who takes the lead and after a point, Vale becomes a sidekick who shows up on page when the story needs it. I would have loved to see more of them working together.
The plot is even more action packed in this book because there are always assassination attempts or kidnappings happening and Irene has to think on her feet and get out of all these tricky situations. Her immense talents are on full display and it was truly a delight to read. We also get to know so much more about the court politics of the dragons and how much the dragons and fae can’t stand each other. Every page in the story felt so significant because I was very invested in the outcome of the peace conference and was wondering how Irene’s findings would impact it. The end battle was very intense and on a scale not seen in this series before. The ending really expands the scope of this universe and I can’t wait to see what Irene and Kai will do in their new roles.
If you love books and mysteries and adventures featuring a strong female character, I recommend you leave everything else aside and pick up this series. Every book in the series expands the scope of this universe and it has been a wonderful journey. And I’m very happy to know that there might be a couple more upcoming in this series.
October 1, 2020
As usual, into this. The word "romp" continues to best sum up my feelings about this series. Also, it tends to be one madcap scheme after another. Clearly, I am a fan. Also, I always enjoy the Library when it plays its role as a neutral party. And Irene as sort of, unwilling diplomat/investigator is always excellent.
I also like her working relationship with Vale, and her relationships with the investigators on the Fae and dragon sides, as well as her relationships with the two diplomatic camps in general (perhaps more so the Fae in this one).
I continue to find Kai one of the least interesting characters in the whole series, but at least his role is kept to a minimum in this one. And Library internal politics is starting to elude me a bit (they don't seem very logical/consistent), and it's getting to the point where the series needs to stop teasing mentions of Irene's parents. They need to make an actual appearance, is what I'm saying.
Things I absolutely loved:
Basically, this series is just fun.
I also like her working relationship with Vale, and her relationships with the investigators on the Fae and dragon sides, as well as her relationships with the two diplomatic camps in general (perhaps more so the Fae in this one).
I continue to find Kai one of the least interesting characters in the whole series, but at least his role is kept to a minimum in this one. And Library internal politics is starting to elude me a bit (they don't seem very logical/consistent), and it's getting to the point where the series needs to stop teasing mentions of Irene's parents. They need to make an actual appearance, is what I'm saying.
Things I absolutely loved:
Basically, this series is just fun.
January 28, 2019
4.5 stars!!! i loved this and the new direction the series is taking! new villains and allies and of course kai and irene! irene is one of my fav female main characters ever, so underrated and clever beyond measure! this gave me hope
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