Camera Obscura

This is the second book in The Bookman Histories, the first being The Bookman and I would suggest you start with that first. Although Camera Obscura would stand alone you may find a few references confusing.

Once again Tidhar has constructed a masterpiece of a novel. His steampunk world where Lizards sit on the throne of England is deeply absorbing. This sequel is set mainly in Paris and once again the book is populated with well known characters from fact and fiction. There are plenty of dead bodies littering the path of Milady de Winter, Cleo to her friends. Working for The Quiet Council she finds herself deeper and deeper in a mystery where more than once her life is in danger. This is not a book for the squeamish.

I found myself drawn in until I had almost forgotten the world around me. I liked the characters, could almost see the scenery and could smell the smells. Lavie Tidhar has once again built a book you can immerse yourself in. And, like a warm bath, you will be loathe to get out.