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Ateban Cipher #1
The Book of Secrets
What's the secret of the book, and why is it so valuable? These are the questions Gabe must answer when a dying man hands him a coded manuscript with one instruction: take it to Aidan. Gabe is hurled into a quest that takes him beyond his monastery home and into a world of danger, political intrigue and adventure.
As he seeks to decipher the code and find a mystery man who may not even exist, Gabe learns that survival must be earned and that some of life's biggest lessons are not found in books.
Gabe finds himself questioning everything he knows about right and wrong and wondering if he'll ever find a way back home. He also discovers that the biggest secret of all may be his own.
As he seeks to decipher the code and find a mystery man who may not even exist, Gabe learns that survival must be earned and that some of life's biggest lessons are not found in books.
Gabe finds himself questioning everything he knows about right and wrong and wondering if he'll ever find a way back home. He also discovers that the biggest secret of all may be his own.
256 pages, Paperback
First published September 12, 2017
14 people are currently reading
406 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 80 reviews
October 24, 2017
I found this story fascinating. The main character, Gabe, is a novice monk with no idea of the world outside the monastery. He is handed a coded manuscript with very critic instructions to, 'Take it to Aiden.' From that point on, Gabe is thrust into a world of danger, intrigue and adventure, all the while trying to keep the book hidden from those who would do anything to possess it, at the same time trying to decipher it, and not get killed.
Gabe has to learn some hard lessons very quickly in order to survive. But, perhaps the biggest lesson is, there is no black and white in the outside world, but varying shades of grey.
I loved this book and am keen for the release of, 'The Book Of Answers,' next year.
Gabe has to learn some hard lessons very quickly in order to survive. But, perhaps the biggest lesson is, there is no black and white in the outside world, but varying shades of grey.
I loved this book and am keen for the release of, 'The Book Of Answers,' next year.
October 19, 2017
Such a great, fun and fast read for any 8-12 reader. Gabe and the prince need some serious girl power to sort out their problems, but luckily they stumble upon just the right girls to help them out. Loved all the running about (and the library full of manuscripts, because... books! Oh, and the monks and their sandals, because... sandals!). Great cliffhanger and will definitely be reading the next instalment!
November 11, 2022
A middle grade intro-to-fantasy sorta book! Not a bad first book in a duology but very slow to find it's feet. Like they did all the typical fantasy-type stuff but there was no payoff. And I get this is a two-parter but this first part is just them running around finding out just that the mystery book is called the Ateban Cipher. This means literally everything has to be solved in book 2.
Decent enough for middle school kiddos just looking to dip toes into fantasy though.
Decent enough for middle school kiddos just looking to dip toes into fantasy though.
December 14, 2017
Gabe is an unworldly teenager, raised in a monastery since birth. He is entrusted with a secret manuscript that is ‘powerful enough for men to kill over’, and must escape the monastery to keep it safe. He finds himself plunged into a world he knows only through books, and is befriended by a feisty band of girls who save him from capture. Together they unravel the mystery behind the secret manuscript.
The Book of Secrets is a children’s (middle grade) fantasy, reminiscent of medieval times when Kings, Lords and Sheriffs ruled the land. Crossbows, dungeons and castles are an ever-present backdrop to Gabe’s quest to place the manuscript in safe hands, as he is pitted against treachery within the abbey, and Lord Sherborne’s plot to gain power from the King.
With fast-paced action, this book will appeal to both boys and girls, as teenagers outwit villains, and possess morals and a sense of justice superior to many of their elders. There are laughs and tender moments along the way as Gabe learns that the difference between right and wrong is not always straight-cut. He may be unworldly, but Gabe is intuitive and quick to learn. After being rescued by – and reliant on – the girls initially, he gains his own sense of agency, using his intellect and education to help them out of sticky situations in return.
When we meet the four girls who befriend Gabe, they are living a ‘Robin Hood’ type of life in the forest. Home is a large, hollowed out tree. (I would have given anything to play in a tree like that when I was a child!) Witty and resourceful, the girls care deeply for each other. They are powerful, empathetic role models, and the book’s inscription says it all:
The girls’ bond with each other makes Gabe think about the meaning of family. Dropped at the Abbey doors as a babe in a basket, he carries a great deal of respect for the monks who have done their best to raise him, but he realises he has not felt the ease of touch Merry and Gwyn (who are sisters) take for granted. Scarlett (their cousin) joined them when she ran away from home to escape an arranged marriage, and Midge was welcomed into the group when they found her tragically orphaned. All characters are well developed, with strong backstories of their own, and each are integral to the story. With the addition of another teenage character, Eddie, towards the end, a formidable team of six is established, ready to take the series on further challenges and adventures.
The climax of the book came as a bit of a shock. I thought ‘no!’ when I saw what was coming for the girls, yet they took the event in their stride, and it showcased Gywn’s bravery and quick thinking.
The mystery behind Aidan’s connection to the book was revealed and I enjoyed the imagination behind the cypher that will eventually lead them to this ‘Aidan’. I particularly loved that it was Midge who cracked the secret code, having never held a book in her life before.
I’m looking forward to the second book in the Ateban Cipher series – there are many story lines to resolve. Will the Abbot, and Merry and Gwyn’s Pa, each make it out alive? Is Brother Malachy too good to be true? Why did Brother Benedict have the Ateban Cipher in the first place, and what is it’s purpose?
As a side note, A. L. Tait co-hosts the hugely popular podcast, So You Want To Be A Writer , with Valerie Khoo. As well as both ladies providing general writing tips and author interviews, Allison Tait will often discuss the writing craft specifically in respect to her novels. Advice on character and setting considerations, technique, plot, edits, marketing etc is given freely, and particular podcast conversations come to mind when reading her books. I’ve had many ‘aha’ moments when I see her words on the page, and the advice she has previously given clicks into place. If you are interested in the craft of writing (or enjoy listening to a bit of banter), I highly recommend this podcast.
Having said that, I’m lucky to have two children who are smack bang in the target reading age for A. L. Tait’s novels – making her books an absolute pleasure to read with my children at bedtime.
mariemclean.com
The Book of Secrets is a children’s (middle grade) fantasy, reminiscent of medieval times when Kings, Lords and Sheriffs ruled the land. Crossbows, dungeons and castles are an ever-present backdrop to Gabe’s quest to place the manuscript in safe hands, as he is pitted against treachery within the abbey, and Lord Sherborne’s plot to gain power from the King.
With fast-paced action, this book will appeal to both boys and girls, as teenagers outwit villains, and possess morals and a sense of justice superior to many of their elders. There are laughs and tender moments along the way as Gabe learns that the difference between right and wrong is not always straight-cut. He may be unworldly, but Gabe is intuitive and quick to learn. After being rescued by – and reliant on – the girls initially, he gains his own sense of agency, using his intellect and education to help them out of sticky situations in return.
When we meet the four girls who befriend Gabe, they are living a ‘Robin Hood’ type of life in the forest. Home is a large, hollowed out tree. (I would have given anything to play in a tree like that when I was a child!) Witty and resourceful, the girls care deeply for each other. They are powerful, empathetic role models, and the book’s inscription says it all:
‘For all the girls who go where they want, when they want. Or will, one day.’
The girls’ bond with each other makes Gabe think about the meaning of family. Dropped at the Abbey doors as a babe in a basket, he carries a great deal of respect for the monks who have done their best to raise him, but he realises he has not felt the ease of touch Merry and Gwyn (who are sisters) take for granted. Scarlett (their cousin) joined them when she ran away from home to escape an arranged marriage, and Midge was welcomed into the group when they found her tragically orphaned. All characters are well developed, with strong backstories of their own, and each are integral to the story. With the addition of another teenage character, Eddie, towards the end, a formidable team of six is established, ready to take the series on further challenges and adventures.
The climax of the book came as a bit of a shock. I thought ‘no!’ when I saw what was coming for the girls, yet they took the event in their stride, and it showcased Gywn’s bravery and quick thinking.
The mystery behind Aidan’s connection to the book was revealed and I enjoyed the imagination behind the cypher that will eventually lead them to this ‘Aidan’. I particularly loved that it was Midge who cracked the secret code, having never held a book in her life before.
I’m looking forward to the second book in the Ateban Cipher series – there are many story lines to resolve. Will the Abbot, and Merry and Gwyn’s Pa, each make it out alive? Is Brother Malachy too good to be true? Why did Brother Benedict have the Ateban Cipher in the first place, and what is it’s purpose?
As a side note, A. L. Tait co-hosts the hugely popular podcast, So You Want To Be A Writer , with Valerie Khoo. As well as both ladies providing general writing tips and author interviews, Allison Tait will often discuss the writing craft specifically in respect to her novels. Advice on character and setting considerations, technique, plot, edits, marketing etc is given freely, and particular podcast conversations come to mind when reading her books. I’ve had many ‘aha’ moments when I see her words on the page, and the advice she has previously given clicks into place. If you are interested in the craft of writing (or enjoy listening to a bit of banter), I highly recommend this podcast.
Having said that, I’m lucky to have two children who are smack bang in the target reading age for A. L. Tait’s novels – making her books an absolute pleasure to read with my children at bedtime.
mariemclean.com
April 25, 2018
Fantastic little read of middle grade fantasy, easily recommended for the young readers in your life!
The gem of this book lies deep within its side characters who all feel varied and detailed in their backstories and mannerisms. The ending didn’t feel as satisfying as the lead up to it, but I’m fine with this as I know that out there lies a sequel waiting to be read!
The gem of this book lies deep within its side characters who all feel varied and detailed in their backstories and mannerisms. The ending didn’t feel as satisfying as the lead up to it, but I’m fine with this as I know that out there lies a sequel waiting to be read!
April 23, 2023
This is a very interesting book! I enjoyed Gabe as a main character; he was very sympathetic. However, I often found this book quite predictable and a little slow-paced (very little happened in terms of the overall plot or even any of the characters' arcs). But I'm sure if someone is looking for a clean, Robin Hood-like book for a tween, this is probably a good series to try.
May 30, 2023
I enjoyed this book more than I anticipated. Full of intrigue and an interesting story. I enjoyed Gabe learning to function outside of the abbey, the introduction of the girls was fun, and I’m looking forward to seeing what happens with Eddie and the book. Definitely want to read the next book.
July 30, 2024
Such a great book! Takes awhile to learn the names because there are so many but it’s still really good. It taught me how to properly shoot a bow and arrow 🙃
October 1, 2022
It was a great book that keeps you on you toes, the only thing is it starts very slowly other than that I should highly recommend 😊👍
March 25, 2021
One moment, Gabe is minding his business as a novice at the Oldham abbey, happily illuminating manuscripts and going to daily prayers. The next moment, he is on the run, charged by a dying brother to protect a precious (though unreadable) book. The abbey's evil prior is in cahoots with the corrupt local nobleman, his brutal sheriff and more, and now they're all after Gabe because he has something precious, even if he doesn't know why it is. With nowhere else to go, he falls in with a gang of merry outlaws – one of them is actually named Merry, in fact – who all just happen to be runaway girls.
If all they had to do was hide in the woods until the coast was clear, it would be easy. But Gabe doesn't understand the first thing about what he's supposed to do with the book, and the only information he can get about it comes from inside the walls of the abbey. Meanwhile, two of the girls want him to help them spring their father from the castle dungeons, and when that plan goes sideways, they end up with another boy in their keeping – this one claiming to be the crown prince, who has been betrayed by his head bodyguard and replaced with a lookalike.
Together, the four girls and two boys have a lot of close scrapes with the law, if it's even right to call that crooked bunch the law. While none of their schemes seem to get them any closer to their goals, they do inch closer to the truth about the book, a way to put the rightful prince back on his throne, and justice for the girls' dad. But a lot more danger lies ahead.
Gabe comes a long way in this book, facing challenges to his morally straight upbringing even while deeply missing his monastic home. His adventures are hair-raising and mysterious, but also envigorating at the same time. His depiction and that of his compatriots is sensitive and touching, when there's time to dwell on it between madcap chases, death-defying feats and suspenseful moments. But clearly, it'll take a sequel to get to the bottom of all that's really going on.
This is the first book of the Ateban Cipher duad, or duology, or whatever you call a two-book trilogy, by the Australian author of the (now four-book) Mapmaker Chronicles, the Maven & Reeve mystery The Fire Star and its upcoming sequel The Wolf's Howl, and the companion to this book, titled The Book of Answers.
If all they had to do was hide in the woods until the coast was clear, it would be easy. But Gabe doesn't understand the first thing about what he's supposed to do with the book, and the only information he can get about it comes from inside the walls of the abbey. Meanwhile, two of the girls want him to help them spring their father from the castle dungeons, and when that plan goes sideways, they end up with another boy in their keeping – this one claiming to be the crown prince, who has been betrayed by his head bodyguard and replaced with a lookalike.
Together, the four girls and two boys have a lot of close scrapes with the law, if it's even right to call that crooked bunch the law. While none of their schemes seem to get them any closer to their goals, they do inch closer to the truth about the book, a way to put the rightful prince back on his throne, and justice for the girls' dad. But a lot more danger lies ahead.
Gabe comes a long way in this book, facing challenges to his morally straight upbringing even while deeply missing his monastic home. His adventures are hair-raising and mysterious, but also envigorating at the same time. His depiction and that of his compatriots is sensitive and touching, when there's time to dwell on it between madcap chases, death-defying feats and suspenseful moments. But clearly, it'll take a sequel to get to the bottom of all that's really going on.
This is the first book of the Ateban Cipher duad, or duology, or whatever you call a two-book trilogy, by the Australian author of the (now four-book) Mapmaker Chronicles, the Maven & Reeve mystery The Fire Star and its upcoming sequel The Wolf's Howl, and the companion to this book, titled The Book of Answers.
January 5, 2020
Set in a small village in the Middle Ages, The Book of Secrets highlights the fascinating time period of lords, peasants, knights, and tournaments, which provides the perfect backdrop for this tale of mystery and adventure. Our hero, Gabe, has an unwavering sense of loyalty, as well as an innocent curiosity that makes readers continue to turn the page as they cheer for his safety and success. During his journey, Gabe is joined by a band of rebel girls. Two of these characters stand out as Gabe’s primary supports. First, Merry’s kindness causes Gabe to question the binary good/bad picture of the world outside the monastery; while Gwyn’s tough love demonstrates that Gabe has much to learn in order to survive beyond the monastery’s walls. Throughout the book, Gabe embarks on a journey to find answers to a multitude of questions that arise when his dying mentor hands him a coded book. During his quest, his loyalty is tested, and he learns that it is not enough to just be moral. Rather, he must also develop the skill of discernment to decide between good, better, and best. Packed full of action, adventure, mystery, and suspense, this book is sure to have readers coming back for “just one more chapter.” I would recommend this book for adolescent readers (age 8-14) who enjoy a thrilling mystery. The fast-paced plot of this novel would also hook the interest of reluctant readers. Furthermore, the conclusion of this book dangles the proverbial carrot for readers by answering just a few of Gabe’s many questions, while also laying the groundwork for more answers, action, and suspense in the next book. I’m definitely looking forward to reading the next book to see how the mystery of the Ateban Cipher is solved!
September 22, 2021
My husband and I took turns reading this to each other and we were both invested in the storyline. The twists in this story made the book highly engaging and it was easy to keep reading. Husbands note: "There weren't so many twists that you would get lost in the story. It was easy to keep up with the storyline." This definitely has some fun Robin Hood vibes. We had some interesting and fun conversations attempting to connect the characters between the two stories. My only note (and why i gave 4 stars instead of 5) is that some of the revelations happened very suddenly. To which I would say this is definitely a teen book. So I think that might be why there was less build up to them, the author wanting to keep the story moving at a faster pace for the younger reader... ? Maybe that's why. Over all a bit of an easier read, but we loved it! Can't wait to read the next book in this duology.
u10043.myubam.com
u10043.myubam.com
December 9, 2022
In The Book of Secrets, A.L. Tait immediately grabs the reader's attention with the first pages of this duology. The author does an incredible job portraying through the main character that not everything is what it seems. The main character, Gabe, had to face the world- not as he knew it- but as it truly was. This book is a great reminder that although life has many trials, it is also full of friendship and adventures. Overall, this is a fun, quirky, and mysterious book; easy to read, and great for youths. I’m looking forward to how the rest of the adventures unfold within the Book of Answers.
September 11, 2017
This is a fantastic story! From the very first sentence, you are taken on a wild adventure with Gabe as he is entrusted to deliver a mysterious book to an equally mysterious "Aidan". It is set in a fantastical middle ages, with echoes of Robin Hood and Rangers Apprentice. It will appeal to both male and female readers, as our hero quickly teams up with a band of feisty girls in the forest.
Can't wait for the next book in this story, as it does end with a cliff hanger!
Appropriate for readers from Year 6+.
Can't wait for the next book in this story, as it does end with a cliff hanger!
Appropriate for readers from Year 6+.
September 13, 2017
AL Tait has done it again. We are loving The Mapmaker Chronicles series and have been eagerly waiting for this new series to launch. It's every bit as good (and that's saying something). Intelligent writing, memorable characters and action that just rips along. I particularly love that this book is a true 'boy or girl' book, with strong characters representing both genders. You know a book is well-loved when your kid can't stop reading it. These past two days my 13-year-old son's face has been the cover of The Book of Secrets every time I look at him. Well done, AL Tait! More please!
September 7, 2020
The Book of Secrets is a really good book. It is about a boy named Gabe who is sent on a quest when a dying man hands him a coded manuscript. On this quest, Gabe encounters some girls who live in a hollowed out tree in the woods. The girls are searching for a way to get their Pa back from being imprisoned in a dungeon. They teach Gabe how to survive while on the quest. At the end of the book, Gabe, the girls, and a prince named Eddie go to sleep so they can wake up the next morning to leave for Hayden's Mont. I can't wait to read the next book in the series, called The Book of Answers.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 3, 2017
I really loved this book. Filled with adventure, secrets and tunnels - what great kid's book doesn't have tunnels? - The Book of Secrets draws you in with a mystery but holds you there with its characters. I love, love, love Merry's band of girls - especially Gwin. Strong, fearless and kind they are exactly the sort of heroine I want my own girl reading about.
Can't wait for the next book in the series, should be a cracker.
Can't wait for the next book in the series, should be a cracker.
May 29, 2018
This is the first in a promising series about a mysterious book that propels Gabe off on an unexpected adventure to fulfill a dying monk's wishes. This book is filled with great pacing, adventure, interesting characters and a likeable protagonist. I'm looking forward to introducing this series to my kids when they reach a middle-grade reading and comprehension level. There is a definite 'Robin Hood' feel to the adventure- with bows and arrows, haunting forests and an eerie Abbey.
August 4, 2019
I was SO excited when this new duology was released by Usborne Books & More because I personally LOVE A.L.Tait's Mapmaker trilogy! This one did not disappoint, although it has more of a "Robin Hood" feel to it. Highly recommend, although I haven't yet read the sequel... Reading this one aloud to my girls before I let myself move on to #2 LOL.
(I'm a UBAM rep if you don't already have a book lady.)
(I'm a UBAM rep if you don't already have a book lady.)
September 27, 2020
Loved this type of Robin Hood story, with feisty, clever girls - all with their own gifts, helping those in need. Taking Gabe into their shelter, he breaks free of his monastery innocence for the sake of the book of secrets. I really enjoyed this era with all its weapons and armoury, and the girls disguised as boys to outwit the arrogant sheriff and his men. I wish I had the second in the series on my bookshelf right now.
March 20, 2022
This was a fun read and I believe it is setting us up for an even better adventure in the 2nd and last book of this dueology. I will say for me it didn’t hit the way I was hoping because I do read and watch a lot of fantasy and historic type things (Lord of the Rings, Vikings, etc…) so that was a little sad for me. But I did enjoy the band of girls we meet and the mysteries that need to be solved. It keeps you on your toes and I am sure the next book won’t disappoint.
March 2, 2023
I really enjoyed this book. It’s about a young monk who needs to take a book to a mysterious person. I kept getting Robin Hood vibes from it because there’s a group of girl thieves living in the forest who help the young monk. It’s an easy, quick read that keeps you wondering what will happen next. It has lots of bravery and adventure throughout its pages. I’m going to have to read the sequel now.
August 20, 2025
I read this book aloud to my kids and I have to say I enjoyed it as much as they did.
The start was a bit slow, but stick it out because it’s worth it.
Gabe was a foundling dropped off at an Abbey. Due to circumstances beyond his control he is now on the run outside the abbey. He finds friendship while trying to solve the answers to this book and not get caught by the bad people.
There are tender moments, sly humor, and friendship. Can’t wait to dive into the next one.
The start was a bit slow, but stick it out because it’s worth it.
Gabe was a foundling dropped off at an Abbey. Due to circumstances beyond his control he is now on the run outside the abbey. He finds friendship while trying to solve the answers to this book and not get caught by the bad people.
There are tender moments, sly humor, and friendship. Can’t wait to dive into the next one.
August 20, 2017
A fun, fast-paced romp through a fantastical middle-ages setting will delight fans of John Flanagan Ranger's Apprentice series. There's something for everyone with a relatable male protagonist and a bunch of feisty girls to save him from trouble. Recommended for ages 10 up, though younger readers may enjoy it on audio or with a parent. There is no troubling content.
November 25, 2017
This is the first book I've read by AL Tait and I was introduced to her by Beth Macdonald as writing strong female leads for young adults. This was a brill book, whilst it appeared to have Gabe as a hero it really centres on the four girls. I can't wait to read the next and see how the adventure continues. I'm also off to try her other seres.
July 17, 2018
A very clever book
What a wonderful story! I also write in this genre and it’s tricky to get right, but The Book of Secrets is a brilliant read and I’m looking forward to reading the next book! The characters are unique, the setting is as real as it gets, and the plot is tight. What more can a child (or adult) reader want?
What a wonderful story! I also write in this genre and it’s tricky to get right, but The Book of Secrets is a brilliant read and I’m looking forward to reading the next book! The characters are unique, the setting is as real as it gets, and the plot is tight. What more can a child (or adult) reader want?
December 10, 2019
A fun, fast paced novel. There are no slow points in this story - the novel opens with the premise (Gabe being given an important book), and then doesn't stop from there. I was surprised there was so little about this book in this novel - in reality, the Ateban Cipher triggers the plot. A lively story about friendship and right and wrong.
August 5, 2021
Medieval fiction with a band of merry maidens roaming the forest stealing from the rich and giving to the poor. Throw in a monk from the monastery who’s trying to keep a cipher (book of secrets) out of the wrong hands, and a prince who’s throne has been stolen. Sound a little familiar? It’s definitely got a Robin Hood vibe but it’s still a fun read. Off to read the sequel 🙃
July 28, 2022
3.5 stars. A great adventure story! When I read the dedication I was confused, as the main character is a boy. But once you read t the book, you realize what it means and I love this aspect of the book! The story does end a bit abruptly but I’m sure it concludes in the second part of the duology, which I will now have to read. (Sigh)
April 30, 2024
We enjoy this author's work, as a family. Her Mapmakers Chronicles series was our first introduction to her work. We were excited to find this book from A. L. Tait in our library system. There is a definite cliffhanger ending to this first of a two book series. I recommend this book for kids ages 10 and up.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 80 reviews