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Wormwood #2
Tersias the Oracle
When the world falls into chaos after a near-miss with a comet, Tersias's gift of second sight makes him an invaluable force in the midst of instability, thus when he is kidnapped by Solomon in order to be a puppet in his master plan to take over the planet, Tersias's friends must find a way to get him back before his special gift causes harm to many.
262 pages, Paperback
First published January 1, 2004
17 people are currently reading
477 people want to read
About the author
G.P. Taylor
80 books193 followers (born 1958 in Scarborough, North Yorkshire), pen-name G.P. Taylor, is the author of the best-selling novels Shadowmancer, Wormwood and Tersias. Before taking up writing full-time, he was an Anglican vicar in the village of Cloughton, North Yorkshire.
His works reflect his faith, carrying Christian messages like The Chronicles of Narnia of C.S. Lewis. He began to write his works to counter the increasing number of works, such as Harry Potter and Buffy the Vampire Slayer, that he believed were encouraging children to investigate the occult. His works have also garnered some controversy however, because whilst Taylor has claimed to be "an authority on Wicca and paganism", his books have been considered offensive by some neopagans for describing them as being tricked by the Devil.
His works reflect his faith, carrying Christian messages like The Chronicles of Narnia of C.S. Lewis. He began to write his works to counter the increasing number of works, such as Harry Potter and Buffy the Vampire Slayer, that he believed were encouraging children to investigate the occult. His works have also garnered some controversy however, because whilst Taylor has claimed to be "an authority on Wicca and paganism", his books have been considered offensive by some neopagans for describing them as being tricked by the Devil.
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November 29, 2010Thanks to Rollie (review - he is in the process of writing his review.), I finished reading the book and I'm planning to read the rest of the book in the Shadowmancer series. I've read a lot of bad comments and reviews bout the book in GR and I am forced to read it not because of the bad comments, but because of my curiosity. I really like the cover, one main reason why I bought this book.
The Earth is on its peak, apocalypse is coming and only one child foresees the future his name was, Tersias, a blind oracle, that can see the future with the use of the power of the Wretchkin, a mysterious creature that looks like a human with wings and dragon-like. He was in care of an old charlatan or a magician named Magnus Malachi, cruel and unsuccessful in life. Soon people surrounds them knows the secret of Tersias, and they become greedy of power and they are trying to steal him from Malachi.
Jonah Ketch, a teenage highwaymen, trying to steal money from a passenger of a carriage, soon discovered that he stole a very important treasures (Mastema, cursed knife and Albaster, a portal to another dimension) of the past that owned by Malpas. Malpas become obsessed to give him back his treasure and he team up with Solomon, who organized a sect of Solomites, a man who wants to dominate the earth.
Solomon started to collect his disciples from beggars to highwaymen by changing them to rag to being gentleman. He kidnapped Tersias and Tara, Jonah's best friend, and used them to pursue his goal. Jonah and Malachi teamed up to search for Tersias and Tara and until there friendship change them and become aware of things that happened in the past. The changes that they really want to achieve and the person that they really love.
The main idea of the story is to show man's greed, the power that men wants to achieve. From the first part of story, it shows that Malachi wants Tersias, so that he wants to be a famous magician. The teenage highwaymen wants him to steal golds, Malpas wants to kidnapped him because he wants to search for his missing treasure and lastly Solomon, he wants Trisias to be the key to his dominating power. Greediness is a perfect them for apocalyptic book. New beginning, new enemies and new plan.
The book was a Christian based and the author used some facts bout the bible and used it to Griselda, the wife of Malpas and a healer. She is the source of light (as she glows like a sun and wears a man's dress, simple) and the one who makes the story warm and God loving.
Some scenes are also taken from the bible like the locust that Solomon's plan to destroy all the living things in the earth, in the opposite side, he makes them mutant and human eating pest! Plus the book is a mix of ghost story, he really makes this book interesting for children.
Lastly, the story is a happy ending, and love conquers all.
This scene shows the first chapter of the book and what happened to London after the great destruction. While reading the book I imagined an old London, since they are still using horses and the way they bargain things.
What makes the book boring? Seriously, I like the book, with its cool intro, eerie atmosphere and historical setting. But it became boring in the middle of the story, the author focused on applying Christian teachings to the book and the story came out slow. I also hate the ending, maybe if the author make it more tragic than happy ending I will be happy to give it another star.
I think the author wants to emphasize the symbol that represent Tersias, is he the source of greed? power? or whatever. Another one is that maybe the author can't think of a proper title for the book. Haha. Lazy. And compare to his other titles, this is the only book that its title is a person's name. Weird. Who cares for the title, but as long as we enjoy reading and if it represent what symbolizes the book, it is enough not to be discuss.
Rating - Tersias the Oracle by G.P. Taylor, 3 sweets (I enjoyed the first half of the book but it turns out to be boring. Lack of actions and too much irrelevant part, but I really enjoyed reading the book. For the past few weeks I've read a lot of Christian-based books and I'm becoming God's servant, by sharing reviews! Lol!)
The Earth is on its peak, apocalypse is coming and only one child foresees the future his name was, Tersias, a blind oracle, that can see the future with the use of the power of the Wretchkin, a mysterious creature that looks like a human with wings and dragon-like. He was in care of an old charlatan or a magician named Magnus Malachi, cruel and unsuccessful in life. Soon people surrounds them knows the secret of Tersias, and they become greedy of power and they are trying to steal him from Malachi.
Jonah Ketch, a teenage highwaymen, trying to steal money from a passenger of a carriage, soon discovered that he stole a very important treasures (Mastema, cursed knife and Albaster, a portal to another dimension) of the past that owned by Malpas. Malpas become obsessed to give him back his treasure and he team up with Solomon, who organized a sect of Solomites, a man who wants to dominate the earth.
Solomon started to collect his disciples from beggars to highwaymen by changing them to rag to being gentleman. He kidnapped Tersias and Tara, Jonah's best friend, and used them to pursue his goal. Jonah and Malachi teamed up to search for Tersias and Tara and until there friendship change them and become aware of things that happened in the past. The changes that they really want to achieve and the person that they really love.
The main idea of the story is to show man's greed, the power that men wants to achieve. From the first part of story, it shows that Malachi wants Tersias, so that he wants to be a famous magician. The teenage highwaymen wants him to steal golds, Malpas wants to kidnapped him because he wants to search for his missing treasure and lastly Solomon, he wants Trisias to be the key to his dominating power. Greediness is a perfect them for apocalyptic book. New beginning, new enemies and new plan.
The book was a Christian based and the author used some facts bout the bible and used it to Griselda, the wife of Malpas and a healer. She is the source of light (as she glows like a sun and wears a man's dress, simple) and the one who makes the story warm and God loving.
Some scenes are also taken from the bible like the locust that Solomon's plan to destroy all the living things in the earth, in the opposite side, he makes them mutant and human eating pest! Plus the book is a mix of ghost story, he really makes this book interesting for children.
Lastly, the story is a happy ending, and love conquers all.
This scene shows the first chapter of the book and what happened to London after the great destruction. While reading the book I imagined an old London, since they are still using horses and the way they bargain things.
What makes the book boring? Seriously, I like the book, with its cool intro, eerie atmosphere and historical setting. But it became boring in the middle of the story, the author focused on applying Christian teachings to the book and the story came out slow. I also hate the ending, maybe if the author make it more tragic than happy ending I will be happy to give it another star.
The title is not different form Grover the Underworld and the Lighting Thief, Hermione Granger and Sorcerer’s stone, etc. But of course the authors of these said books didn’t follow the above title. Why? Obviously, a question will arise if they did - Rollie's Review.
I think the author wants to emphasize the symbol that represent Tersias, is he the source of greed? power? or whatever. Another one is that maybe the author can't think of a proper title for the book. Haha. Lazy. And compare to his other titles, this is the only book that its title is a person's name. Weird. Who cares for the title, but as long as we enjoy reading and if it represent what symbolizes the book, it is enough not to be discuss.
Rating - Tersias the Oracle by G.P. Taylor, 3 sweets (I enjoyed the first half of the book but it turns out to be boring. Lack of actions and too much irrelevant part, but I really enjoyed reading the book. For the past few weeks I've read a lot of Christian-based books and I'm becoming God's servant, by sharing reviews! Lol!)
May 10, 2011
Okay, I'm torn on this book. On one hand, GP Taylor has created a lovely dark and textured London, which definitely goes a long way to evoke a suitable setting. But on the other, I stumbled over the author's love for adjectives and a host of story arcs that suggest they're going places only to fizzle. I think there was just too much going on for the length of the story, which I feel could have been much, much more had it been plotted and perhaps split over two volumes. As it was, the ending felt rushed and forced, with too many mysteries hinted at but not developed to their full potential. I especially liked the fact that none of the characters were wholly good or bad, but would have liked to have seen each pushed more to their limits to experience some sort of realisation. They were too driven by the plot and not their own motivations. All this being said, this is still a lovely read and I do recommend it, purely for the atmosphere.
November 29, 2010
From our shelf, this title exists. Bought and read by my cousin, forewarned me by its simplicity and dullness that could be a total boredom for me. A lithe for other’s choice and words, I ignored this book.
Thanks to Kwesi, who has posted his review before me, for reading this book as well that urged me to try reading this as well.
Who could have thought that I would like this book? A single line flaunted on my mind:
Their tastes are just for them.
Tersias the Oracle
After reading the book, I found out that the main protagonist of the book isn’t actually Tersias but Jonah—and it really bothered me. After picking the book because of the beautiful title, so does its cover, I was hoping that story will center on Tersias. Yes, he’s one of the major characters but him as the main protagonist? I doubt it. The title is not different form Grover the Underworld and the Lighting Thief, Hermione Granger and Sorcerer’s stone, etc. But of course the authors of these said books didn’t follow the above title. Why? Obviously, a question will arise if they did.
The plots of the book are totally messed up. G.P. Taylor as if held them in his hands and jaculated them at random, resulting a book like this. Apparently, it’s a pejorative in regards with the total package of the book.
Well, I wasn’t bored reading this book as what my cousin expected me to be. And I guess it’s for a one and only reason: I was ready to be bored because I was actually expecting it and luckily, it didn’t happen.
I like this book because:
Why would care?
As what they say this is a Christian-based book.
There are at least some twists that popped my eyes.
This book is about amendments and love.
Yeah. Most of the book that I’ve read lately focuses on love. And this is totally different.
This book show how love can heal any wounds; how can it change a man’s perspective and how can it overcome things beyond death.
Thanks to Kwesi, who has posted his review before me, for reading this book as well that urged me to try reading this as well.
Who could have thought that I would like this book? A single line flaunted on my mind:
Their tastes are just for them.
Tersias the Oracle
After reading the book, I found out that the main protagonist of the book isn’t actually Tersias but Jonah—and it really bothered me. After picking the book because of the beautiful title, so does its cover, I was hoping that story will center on Tersias. Yes, he’s one of the major characters but him as the main protagonist? I doubt it. The title is not different form Grover the Underworld and the Lighting Thief, Hermione Granger and Sorcerer’s stone, etc. But of course the authors of these said books didn’t follow the above title. Why? Obviously, a question will arise if they did.
The plots of the book are totally messed up. G.P. Taylor as if held them in his hands and jaculated them at random, resulting a book like this. Apparently, it’s a pejorative in regards with the total package of the book.
Well, I wasn’t bored reading this book as what my cousin expected me to be. And I guess it’s for a one and only reason: I was ready to be bored because I was actually expecting it and luckily, it didn’t happen.
I like this book because:
Why would care?
As what they say this is a Christian-based book.
There are at least some twists that popped my eyes.
This book is about amendments and love.
Yeah. Most of the book that I’ve read lately focuses on love. And this is totally different.
This book show how love can heal any wounds; how can it change a man’s perspective and how can it overcome things beyond death.
February 27, 2010
I bought this pretty randomly from the Borders closing down sale, because I thought "Tersias" might be linked to "Tiresias", and I do love my classics. The links are there -- Tersias is a boy who is blind and a prophet, and there's a mention of Lycaon, which might be a reference to Laocoon, a Trojan priest mentioned in, if I remember rightly, the Iliad. There the similarities pretty much stop.
Apparently this book is a sequel to G. P. Taylor's others, which I think I read, but so long ago that they've retained no impression on me -- and I don't think I was that gripped in the first place.
This edition, at least, is badly edited with typos and misspellings in every chapter. It could have done with two or three more passes by a proofreader, if it was ever proofread at all.
In terms of the plot, atmosphere, writing, etc, it was all very "eh". I didn't particularly care. Things were rushed and unexplained and it didn't drag you into the plot or get you interested at all. If you've nothing else to read, it might be entertaining for a while, but I kind of wish I hadn't bothered starting. At least it only cost me about 20p.
Apparently this book is a sequel to G. P. Taylor's others, which I think I read, but so long ago that they've retained no impression on me -- and I don't think I was that gripped in the first place.
This edition, at least, is badly edited with typos and misspellings in every chapter. It could have done with two or three more passes by a proofreader, if it was ever proofread at all.
In terms of the plot, atmosphere, writing, etc, it was all very "eh". I didn't particularly care. Things were rushed and unexplained and it didn't drag you into the plot or get you interested at all. If you've nothing else to read, it might be entertaining for a while, but I kind of wish I hadn't bothered starting. At least it only cost me about 20p.
April 1, 2008
Well I picked up this book because A) we were reading The Odyssey in class and I was thinking it might be related to Tiresias the blind prophet and B) it was $3 on the bargain bookshelf.
There's a reason it was $3.
It just didn't grip me... this blind boy was basically blessed/cursed by a Wretchkin, who allowed him to predict the future. It made him desirable to many people. The plot was very simplistic and predictable, the ending a bit sappy, and overall I just didn't care for it. Maybe it's just me, but it felt like a book written with a plot for twelve-year-old kids but with words for slightly older kids... yeah... blah.
There's a reason it was $3.
It just didn't grip me... this blind boy was basically blessed/cursed by a Wretchkin, who allowed him to predict the future. It made him desirable to many people. The plot was very simplistic and predictable, the ending a bit sappy, and overall I just didn't care for it. Maybe it's just me, but it felt like a book written with a plot for twelve-year-old kids but with words for slightly older kids... yeah... blah.
November 3, 2014
Disjointed novel, enjoyable in places but jumped around too much and thus hard to follow. Also non of the characters were in the least bit likable.
September 19, 2018
Got this book as a gift. I thought I would enjoy it because it is fantasy. I could not get through the whole book because it was so bad.
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November 7, 2022
Narrative Evaluation:
The book is packaged as if it was geared towards teen to adult readers. It even reads like so for the first half of the book. But the story building took on the tone of a middlegrade book to it about halfway through. The book tells us that this pub-full of actors is just there to give our heroes a dramatic welcome (that does not really contribute much to their cause, by the way) because it was just pre-arranged so by their erstwhile ally, Mrs. Malpas. In a serious story that wouldn't fly. But in a middlegrade book where the audience is required to suspend disbelief a whole lot more than usual, you might just get away with it. But even with that middlegrade tolerance, I am having a hard time suspending disbelief. Because I just can't accept that it is likely to happen that a total stranger would get a standing ovation upon entrance in a pub which just so happen to be full of actors. As likely as me getting hit by a meteorite. And this is not the only scene which made Tersias a middlegade book. This brings the believability factor down several notches. This also makes me, as a reader, find it hard to connect with the story. If this wasn't a CD which just keeps on playing on while I drive to work, I would have stopped "reading" this book a long time ago. The author needs to decide whether he is writing for a middledgrade audience or adults because the mixed signals he is sending is taking this book's rating down. Not to mention annoying. However, seeing that I came by this audiobook as a freebie from a Sunday paper and I bought the hardback for a £1, I can't really complain. But I do not think I would be buying anything by this author ever again. If ever, I would borrow from the library. But having said that, seeing that there is so many more better reads in my TBR shelf and new releases, I don't think I would be reading/borrowing this author's work any time soon.
The best thing I could say about this audiobook is the narrator. David Bradshawe is a true professional! He reads in a dramatic way without a hitch. His characterization of everybody in the story is fantastic! He infuses the book with his own brand of pizzazz... He gives the book a certain flavour which is enriching thus makes the listening the more enjoyable! I would buy/listen to David Bradshawe again.
Empirical Evaluation:
Story telling quality = 2
Character development = 2
Story itself = 2
Ending = 3
World building = 3
Cover art = 3
Pace = 1
Plot = 1
Narrator = 5
Overall Rating: 2 out of 5
September 7, 2023
Shadowmancer Review
The Shadowmancer Returns Review
Wormwood Review
Tersias the Oracle Review
Immediately we enter into a gloomy and abusive world. Nameless Roughhands and Magnus seem to signify those people who find a livelihood in handicaps and illnesses. It's better to continue seeking sympathetic handouts than to fix an ailment, better to keep people sick through cosmetic treatments than to heal them. Malpas and Solomon invokr the evil spirits of the empowered elites or the twisted fanatacism of perverted cults. Children and adults are blinded to spirituality, from being in a pitch black dungeon, or suffering a disease that garners them no compassion. Cannibalism. Vampirism. Lycanthropy. Hunger and survival depends on what can be obtained in the dark, through nefarious means or sack-covered robberies. Stories of King Midas and his ability to turn all into gold are wonder to a poor lot but they're in for an awakening with a King that considers them more precious than gold.
Being as young as some of these characters are, they can easily be swayed by a pretty face, cool gadgets, promises of gold, or simply a mob mentality. Still, you get a little flustered with some of their choices and words, wanting to step into the book and either hug them or discipline them where they need it. They all are in harsh territory with little to no adult guidance and parental love, so you can't expect saints. The adults are as bad, or worse, since they make more of a conscious effort to do wrong. The few righteous folks that do show up, still leave the MC's to their own struggle and show up more conveniently than they should.
Just like Shadowmancer and Wormwood, Taylor has given us a page-turner. I would caution, knce again, any readers who believe this series is giving a theoretical lesson in Christian theology. It's a tale that puts more focus on God while showcasing the evils of the occult and dark magic. I'd love to read some lighter adventure stories of these three youth and the Companions.
"Not believing in something doesn't make it untrue. Sometimes it is only with knowledge that we can come to believe. ... We in this world have a freedom to choose: good or bad, right or wrong. Each path is laid before us and yet we let our feet tread the path to perdition and our only thought is about the nicety of the shoes we wear for the journey." - Griselda
"My life has been like a long winter without the joy of Christmas to console me through the dark days." - Malachi
"Fleet jail won't keep me and your chains will melt upon my wrists and I will call it a great joy to plunge a dagger through your heart." - Jonah
"If I had my way, I would make sure there were no cardinals, bishops or anyone else who dressed up in fine robes and preached about the depravity of my life whilst their own sank into a mire." - Trigon
"Somehow ... somehow I am beginning to believe that all our days are foretold and if we push at a door, it shall be opened. All I know is that this is the right thing to do - and in that I have my peace." - Magnus
Character reference:
Objects of note:
The Shadowmancer Returns Review
Wormwood Review
Tersias the Oracle Review
Immediately we enter into a gloomy and abusive world. Nameless Roughhands and Magnus seem to signify those people who find a livelihood in handicaps and illnesses. It's better to continue seeking sympathetic handouts than to fix an ailment, better to keep people sick through cosmetic treatments than to heal them. Malpas and Solomon invokr the evil spirits of the empowered elites or the twisted fanatacism of perverted cults. Children and adults are blinded to spirituality, from being in a pitch black dungeon, or suffering a disease that garners them no compassion. Cannibalism. Vampirism. Lycanthropy. Hunger and survival depends on what can be obtained in the dark, through nefarious means or sack-covered robberies. Stories of King Midas and his ability to turn all into gold are wonder to a poor lot but they're in for an awakening with a King that considers them more precious than gold.
Being as young as some of these characters are, they can easily be swayed by a pretty face, cool gadgets, promises of gold, or simply a mob mentality. Still, you get a little flustered with some of their choices and words, wanting to step into the book and either hug them or discipline them where they need it. They all are in harsh territory with little to no adult guidance and parental love, so you can't expect saints. The adults are as bad, or worse, since they make more of a conscious effort to do wrong. The few righteous folks that do show up, still leave the MC's to their own struggle and show up more conveniently than they should.
Just like Shadowmancer and Wormwood, Taylor has given us a page-turner. I would caution, knce again, any readers who believe this series is giving a theoretical lesson in Christian theology. It's a tale that puts more focus on God while showcasing the evils of the occult and dark magic. I'd love to read some lighter adventure stories of these three youth and the Companions.
"Not believing in something doesn't make it untrue. Sometimes it is only with knowledge that we can come to believe. ... We in this world have a freedom to choose: good or bad, right or wrong. Each path is laid before us and yet we let our feet tread the path to perdition and our only thought is about the nicety of the shoes we wear for the journey." - Griselda
"My life has been like a long winter without the joy of Christmas to console me through the dark days." - Malachi
"Fleet jail won't keep me and your chains will melt upon my wrists and I will call it a great joy to plunge a dagger through your heart." - Jonah
"If I had my way, I would make sure there were no cardinals, bishops or anyone else who dressed up in fine robes and preached about the depravity of my life whilst their own sank into a mire." - Trigon
"Somehow ... somehow I am beginning to believe that all our days are foretold and if we push at a door, it shall be opened. All I know is that this is the right thing to do - and in that I have my peace." - Magnus
Character reference:
Objects of note:
November 27, 2017
This book had a lot of potential, I'll say that much. But the pacing was far too fast and Taylor couldn't seem to grasp the concept of "show, not tell," which made the book rather frustrating. I want to feel like I'm in the middle of the action, not like I'm hearing it thirdhand from someone who is only vaguely sure of what's happening. It was hard to be involved in the plot.
It was difficult to like the characters as they were mostly flat. I liked Tersias, but he got barely any time at all through the whole book, despite being the title character. It would have been better if Taylor had left the character of Malachi as grumpy and selfish rather than trying to give him a cheap redemption arc. If you want the theme to be "Love is the answer to every single one of your problems," then great, but give it time and make it realistic. Taylor's relationships were weak and I wanted to see more development. Tersias should have been a larger focus. In fact, I think there could have been and should have been a great deal more focus to all of the characters and events in the book. Had Taylor been more conscientious, this mediocre book could have easily been two good books. I wouldn't read any of the other books in the series. Taylor had some good ideas that simply fell flat.
It was difficult to like the characters as they were mostly flat. I liked Tersias, but he got barely any time at all through the whole book, despite being the title character. It would have been better if Taylor had left the character of Malachi as grumpy and selfish rather than trying to give him a cheap redemption arc. If you want the theme to be "Love is the answer to every single one of your problems," then great, but give it time and make it realistic. Taylor's relationships were weak and I wanted to see more development. Tersias should have been a larger focus. In fact, I think there could have been and should have been a great deal more focus to all of the characters and events in the book. Had Taylor been more conscientious, this mediocre book could have easily been two good books. I wouldn't read any of the other books in the series. Taylor had some good ideas that simply fell flat.
November 21, 2022
This book took me about twenty years to read. What I mean is I sometimes in those years picked it up, read a few pages and put it down. Now I have finished it. So what do I think?
First the good. I liked it's dark inventive world and parts of its plot was compelling. I liked it's theme of redemption. The characters were a tad bit more morally complex then other kids books. Some of the descriptions were nice. Some of it feels original and stands out from other similar books of its time.
The other stuff now. The religious allegory and references weren't subtle, although it was a kids books written by a vicar. (I'm a Christian, this is more about how it was implemented more then anything)
The pace is a bit of a mess. The characters I don't think had much depth. The ending was a tad disappointing. The title character was more of a mcguffin then anything and put to the side often.
Hopefully there aren't other aspects of this book I, like Tersias, have been blind to.
First the good. I liked it's dark inventive world and parts of its plot was compelling. I liked it's theme of redemption. The characters were a tad bit more morally complex then other kids books. Some of the descriptions were nice. Some of it feels original and stands out from other similar books of its time.
The other stuff now. The religious allegory and references weren't subtle, although it was a kids books written by a vicar. (I'm a Christian, this is more about how it was implemented more then anything)
The pace is a bit of a mess. The characters I don't think had much depth. The ending was a tad disappointing. The title character was more of a mcguffin then anything and put to the side often.
Hopefully there aren't other aspects of this book I, like Tersias, have been blind to.
August 3, 2021
This fantasy novel is interesting because I found it enjoyable, but I didn't really understand what was going on. By that I mean, I didn't get the underlying reason for the story.
The main characters change from being people who care about no one but themselves, in large part. Instead, they become focused more on the wellbeing of others, so maybe that is the underlying message.
Whether it is or not, I did stick with Tersias even though the early chapters had me wondering if I would stick with it. If you enjoy fantasy and a partly recognisable world through the characters, such as people who seek to rule through fear and control, then Tersias could well be for you.
The main characters change from being people who care about no one but themselves, in large part. Instead, they become focused more on the wellbeing of others, so maybe that is the underlying message.
Whether it is or not, I did stick with Tersias even though the early chapters had me wondering if I would stick with it. If you enjoy fantasy and a partly recognisable world through the characters, such as people who seek to rule through fear and control, then Tersias could well be for you.
December 21, 2017
There have only been two books I can remember being unable to finish and I am sad to say this is one of them. I got about half way and just couldn't continue. I think it could've been a brilliant book but there was so much going and the story felt disjointed. :(
February 22, 2019
Unlike most of the other reviews, I enjoyed this book. It was an easy read, that held my interest throughout. I agree it could have been developed into a longer story, but am satisfied with the book as is.
September 14, 2020
I enjoyed the first book, and assumed that the second in the series would be equally enjoyable. Sadly, I found the experience of reading it so punitive that I put it aside having read less than 100 pages. I'm afraid that having to read it really did feel like a punishment, so I stopped.
October 19, 2020
Ever since 'Shadowmancer' I read Taylor's work to experience London's gothic atmosphere, which never fails to deliver claustrophobia of physical darkness as well as suffocation within human psyche. Yet, like his other books, his characters lack depth and stories lack content.
January 26, 2018
Disappointing ending
February 15, 2018
If it wasn't for the ending this book would have been a 2.5 stars for me. It had nothing to do with the first book which was a bummer and this compared to that first book was just meh.
June 22, 2020
Unworthy
April 8, 2021
3.5
Definitely was an intriguing book that kept me wondering what will happen. I found the ending to be a little left to be desired though.
Definitely was an intriguing book that kept me wondering what will happen. I found the ending to be a little left to be desired though.
July 4, 2021
Events were effectively described in detail, not boring, but intriguing and I honestly was impressed.
December 15, 2023
Odd, but I enjoyed it. Interesting ideas and characters.
February 23, 2022
Pretty good, but could have been better.
It was interesting how the book is called Tersias, yet you actually spend the majority of the story with a bunch of other characters who you slowly come to like.
Overall the story was ok, but it ended a bit too sharply and could have really done with an epilogue.
It was interesting how the book is called Tersias, yet you actually spend the majority of the story with a bunch of other characters who you slowly come to like.
Overall the story was ok, but it ended a bit too sharply and could have really done with an epilogue.
Read
November 4, 2012Apparently The Times described Taylor's first book as 'the greatest event in children's fiction since Harry Potter'. If that is so then his standards had obviously dipped considerably by the time he wrote this, his third novel. What makes this book so disappointing is that it could easily, with a little editorial advice, have been a much better book.
The story is set in a fictional London, perhaps around the late 18th century although the period is rather vague. The plot centres on Tersias, a blind child prophet, who is manipulated by a variety of men all seeking to exploit his powers for their own end. A young would be highwayman and his friends become involved with one of the villains and then, later, with Tersias himself.
I found it quite a page turning adventure which disappointed me in two ways throughout. First there were occassions when I felt that I had lost the sense of what was going on or why. This may have been my own fault as I have been reading this at a time when I have a lot on my mind, however I don't usually have much trouble in losing myself in a book - in fact that is why I read. The second problem was the irritating way that Taylor uses quotes in both his narration and his dialogue. I counted three song quotes and one from a poem, there may have been others that I missed although I did start playing spot the quote. To give an example (and I apologise if this is not exact as I didn't mark the spot in the text and can't be bothered to find it right now) at one point point Jonah says "... I wasn't used to that as I am just a poor boy though my story's seldom told..." (in case you don't recognise it it is from 'The Boxer' by Simon and Garfunkel). Now I love that song and I commend Taylor for obviously being a fan as well, BUT I found it extremely irritating that those words were put into the mouth of this character. It felt so anachronistic and, to make it worse, it didn't fit into the rest of what he was saying - rather it seemed like Taylor had thought to himself, 'I suppose I could squeeze in that bit from The Boxer here, after all he is a poor boy'.
As the story reached a climax I was ready to give the book a higher rating than it got in the end. Although the nature of Solomon's demise was predictable from an early stage it was brought about quite neatly. But before this had happened though the story had taken an altogether unexpected, but very powerful, twist which made me forget my earlier criticisms. Then in the final two pages there was an ending that was barely one step better than 'Then I woke up, it was all a dream.'
The story is set in a fictional London, perhaps around the late 18th century although the period is rather vague. The plot centres on Tersias, a blind child prophet, who is manipulated by a variety of men all seeking to exploit his powers for their own end. A young would be highwayman and his friends become involved with one of the villains and then, later, with Tersias himself.
I found it quite a page turning adventure which disappointed me in two ways throughout. First there were occassions when I felt that I had lost the sense of what was going on or why. This may have been my own fault as I have been reading this at a time when I have a lot on my mind, however I don't usually have much trouble in losing myself in a book - in fact that is why I read. The second problem was the irritating way that Taylor uses quotes in both his narration and his dialogue. I counted three song quotes and one from a poem, there may have been others that I missed although I did start playing spot the quote. To give an example (and I apologise if this is not exact as I didn't mark the spot in the text and can't be bothered to find it right now) at one point point Jonah says "... I wasn't used to that as I am just a poor boy though my story's seldom told..." (in case you don't recognise it it is from 'The Boxer' by Simon and Garfunkel). Now I love that song and I commend Taylor for obviously being a fan as well, BUT I found it extremely irritating that those words were put into the mouth of this character. It felt so anachronistic and, to make it worse, it didn't fit into the rest of what he was saying - rather it seemed like Taylor had thought to himself, 'I suppose I could squeeze in that bit from The Boxer here, after all he is a poor boy'.
As the story reached a climax I was ready to give the book a higher rating than it got in the end. Although the nature of Solomon's demise was predictable from an early stage it was brought about quite neatly. But before this had happened though the story had taken an altogether unexpected, but very powerful, twist which made me forget my earlier criticisms. Then in the final two pages there was an ending that was barely one step better than 'Then I woke up, it was all a dream.'
August 27, 2008
Shadowmancer, Wormwood and Tersias The Oracle. Yes, I lumped all three of his books into one review. Of course I wanted to read "Shadowmancer". It was hailed as the Christian alternative to Harry Potter and who wouldn't want that? It was even set in a promising time period. The first was definitely the best, but that doesn't necessarily mean anything. I found myself trying to make excuses for the lackluster writing but couldn't. The allegories (when present) are super heavy-handed (don't flow naturally) and are usually tainted with a view of the spiritual world that is way off base. Apparently Satan has a sister. Or didn't you know? And angels can still fall from grace and don't understand why God won't forgive them. Oh, and purgatory exists. Ah, now everything makes sense! It's almost laughable. The books aren't even scary, but do achieve a slight sense of grotesquerie in some events. God has virtually no power in this world, but some ambiguous sense of 'good' does. I probably shouldn't be surprised since ol' G.P thinks it's okay for witches to hold 'sabbaths' in the cemetary of the church where he lives.
None of the characters are identifiable except in "Shadowmancer" where all three 'good guys' are mostly likeable. It is sad because I believe this series had such potential and it was squandered. The accolades it has received tells me the Christian church could do with some better (biblically based) talent. I had only one chapter to go before I finished "Tersias", but I decided to return it to the library, glad I didn't buy it like the other two. That's how little I cared about the characters or the plot. What a waste of paper, ink and my precious time.
None of the characters are identifiable except in "Shadowmancer" where all three 'good guys' are mostly likeable. It is sad because I believe this series had such potential and it was squandered. The accolades it has received tells me the Christian church could do with some better (biblically based) talent. I had only one chapter to go before I finished "Tersias", but I decided to return it to the library, glad I didn't buy it like the other two. That's how little I cared about the characters or the plot. What a waste of paper, ink and my precious time.
October 24, 2013
This takes place in London, when a comet is in collision course, threatening the earth and spreading chaos. This is the setting, which was one of the reasons I was curious about this book, but, really, it could be any other setting because it doesn’t influence the story whatsoever and you’ll barely even recall it. Then, there is this mysterious blind boy named Tersias, who can see the future. He will be the link between all of the other characters, who want to take advantage from his gift.
I read the Portuguese version and the title is something like “The Dagger Curse”, which seems much more appropriate than the original title “Tersias the Oracle”, since he has a secondary role in the plot.
I feel like this book had the potential to be better but the author didn’t evolve the scenario properly and failed to develop the characters. I couldn’t even distinguish the older ones with the same ambitions and same feelings. This book failed to hold my attention and it ended up being a pain to read.
A note to the writing, it felt like it was too erudite for the story it was trying to convey. Like it was a book for youngsters, written by someone old with a scholar writing that didn’t match up.
In conclusion, it is a story of true friendship, forgiveness and redemption…but it’s a bland one.
I read the Portuguese version and the title is something like “The Dagger Curse”, which seems much more appropriate than the original title “Tersias the Oracle”, since he has a secondary role in the plot.
I feel like this book had the potential to be better but the author didn’t evolve the scenario properly and failed to develop the characters. I couldn’t even distinguish the older ones with the same ambitions and same feelings. This book failed to hold my attention and it ended up being a pain to read.
A note to the writing, it felt like it was too erudite for the story it was trying to convey. Like it was a book for youngsters, written by someone old with a scholar writing that didn’t match up.
In conclusion, it is a story of true friendship, forgiveness and redemption…but it’s a bland one.
Read
November 4, 2011En el Londres de 1756 un niño ciego que predice el futuro con exactitud es un monstruo. Un monstruo muy codiciado, eso sí. En sus apenas 12 años de vida, el joven oráculo Tersias es un paria de la sociedad que lo margina y que hace que pase de unas manos a otras, asistiendo sus ojos ciegos a un desfile de verdaderos monstruos: ladrones, magos charlatanes, mesías falsos, asesinos lunáticos...
Esta sucesión de siniestros personajes se sitúa en una de las épocas más supersticiosas y oscuras de la historia, en la que el paso de un cometa significa el fin del mundo, el robo y el asesinato están a la orden del día y la miseria reina entre la población.
¿Es el corazón de Tersias el único rastro de inocencia que queda en la ciudad de Londres? ¿Podrá la luz de sus ojos ciegos redimir a sus itinerantes compañeros o se pondrá al servicio del mal reinante?. . . y lo más inquietante ¿quién y por qué le ha concedido este poder?
Síguenos en: http://eltemplodelasmilpuertas.com/?t...
El Templo de las Mil Puertas - Revista online de literatura juvenil
Esta sucesión de siniestros personajes se sitúa en una de las épocas más supersticiosas y oscuras de la historia, en la que el paso de un cometa significa el fin del mundo, el robo y el asesinato están a la orden del día y la miseria reina entre la población.
¿Es el corazón de Tersias el único rastro de inocencia que queda en la ciudad de Londres? ¿Podrá la luz de sus ojos ciegos redimir a sus itinerantes compañeros o se pondrá al servicio del mal reinante?. . . y lo más inquietante ¿quién y por qué le ha concedido este poder?
Síguenos en: http://eltemplodelasmilpuertas.com/?t...
El Templo de las Mil Puertas - Revista online de literatura juvenil
March 9, 2021
This story is awe-inspiring. GP Taylor is a master story teller. There are so many twists and turns, and the characters are rich and complex. Amazing, amazing story. Dark, suspenseful, heart-wrenching, high stake adventure; all set in the Georgian Era of London. There are some amazing fantastical elements that sit so well into historical London. It's so well fashioned, the images that played in my mind while reading it have never left my memory. It's like watching a film, the writing is so vivid. Bravo.
October 5, 2010
A young-adult book set in a London of a couple of hundred years ago (I’m guessing), the novel is a fantasy, relying on magic and not on science for its plot. There were more “main” characters than you’d expect in a book of only 262 pages and the action jumped among them frequently, which was a little confusing in spots. I wish the story had stuck with the title character more, as I found him to be surprisingly underdeveloped for a title character. Still, it’s a pretty good read and teens might really like it, too.
January 10, 2023
Boken viser et London hvor kloakk og skitt flyter i gatene, hvor henging enda er en vanlig straff, og hvor adelen har stor makt. Sånn sett er den et reelt bilde av hvordan London var. Og på den måten fungerer den. En ønsker at disse tre, og etterhvert fire barna skal få det bedre. Det er spennende når de må sloss og kjempe både for eiendeler og for livet. Og så slutter det totalt usannsynlig. Så en passe fornøyelig bok, vil jeg si. Taylors andre bøker er bedre.
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