The Immortality Clock: Book I of The Immortality Chronicles

by Richard Pierce

Immortality is a gift, freeely bestowed, not something that can be stolen.When workmen uncover a priceless hoard of jewels in London in 1912, most of it is bought by the London Museum. The brightest of all the jewels is a watch carved from a single emerald. Its origin is a mystery.In 1642, Fien’s father, an Antwerp art collector, is murdered by Lord Lindsey who ransacks his collection at the behest of King Charles I of England. She escapes and, disguised as a boy, flees on a pirate ship, The Odyssey, captained by an enigmatic red-haired woman. Fien tells her of the emerald watch her father always wore around his neck, and is shocked to hear it could be the fabled Immortality Clck, which bestows eternal life on its wearer.From Antwerp to the Persian Gulf, Fien and the misfit crew of The Odyssey must overcome storms and tragedy to get to England in pursuit of Lindsey. When they finally arrive, what confronts them in beyond their imagination.

325 pages, Kindle Edition

First published November 29, 2019

About the author

Richard Pierce is a writer, poet, painter, and broadcaster.

He lives in Norwich.

His debut novel, DEAD MEN, was nominated for The Guardian First Book Award.

Reviews

[Richard Pierce]

I can't rate this book, nor review it, because it's my own. Suffice it to say that, for the first time ever I've read a book I've written, and read it as a reader. Mainly because I'm now starting a sequel for it. And as such, it should count towards my books read. I was pleasantly surprised by it :-)

[Joe Evans · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent book. A great story carried along by wonderful characters. Fully immersive in the time it is set aswell. Entertaining and page turning throughout. Some very moving moments too. Beautifully written.

[Max Bailey · Rating 5 out of 5]

A deftly drawn fable for our times

I bought this book following a personal recommendation, expecting a slice of historical escapism. It certainly delivered on that score: a rich, pacy plot filled with vivid set-pieces and deftly drawn characters, with a satisfying dash of swashbuckling heroics and bloodthirsty villainy. What I didn't expect (and really enjoyed) was the depth, intelligence and insight into our contemporary troubles.

Richard Pierce evokes an England riven by deep division; a ruthless political caste exploiting dissent for personal gain; a punch-drunk populace chasing competing fantasies of a mythic England. It's all frighteningly familiar. That these themes are deftly woven through an intensely human story, with compelling characters and a story that keeps the pates turning is an impressive achievement.