The Angel’s Game is the second novel in Zafón’s ‘the Cemetery of Forgotten Books’ quartet.
Book Description:
In an abandoned mansion at the heart of Barcelona, a young man – David Martin – makes his living by writing sensationalist novels under a pseudonym. The survivor of a troubled childhood, he has taken refuge in the world of books, and spends his nights spinning baroque tales about the city’s underworld. But perhaps his dark imaginings are not as strange as they seem, for in a locked room deep within the house letters hinting at the mysterious death of the previous owner. Like a slow poison, the history of the place seeps into his bones as he struggles with an impossible love.
Then David receives the offer of a lifetime: he is to write a book with the power to change hearts and minds. In return, he will receive a fortune, perhaps more. But as David begins the work, he realises that there is a connection between this haunting book and the shadows that surround his home…
My Thoughts:
After enjoying The Shadow of the Wind, I returned to the streets of Barcelona to read The Angel’s Game; usually when reading a series, you look forward to the returning characters, but here you’re looking forward to the returning bookshops. This novel contains a new mystery with new characters, and it is only Sempre & Son’s bookshop and the Cemetery of Forgotten Books that return. That, in itself, highlights the theme of this novel – it’s revolves around books; characters with a love for the written word, and if you enjoy reading about books, then this may be just the novel for you. Side note: characters from book 1 return in book 3 so it’s worth reading these books in order.
Like its predecessor, The Angel’s Game crosses genres and give you a little bit of everything: part historical fiction, part mystery, part romance, part literary thriller, part adventure. I feel like to echo my review of The Shadow of the Wind wouldn’t be far off my thoughts on this one because it too, is a slow burner – the thrills don’t kick in until towards the end of the novel. Obviously, it’s a different mystery but the great gothic vibe to the mystery remains the key factor in creating this books dark atmosphere and this novel is again, another showcase of Zafón’s talented writing. The mystery is layered and Zafón takes you on a journey with a passion for, and the power of, books at its core.
I suppose the key thing to mention here is that, for me, everything in this novel was a little less than in The Shadow of the Wind – the plot was a little less interesting, the character’s a little less enchanting; but one thing worth pointing out is this fab mysterious aura Zafón creates surrounding each character. While I didn’t enjoy this one as much as the first, I still liked it and I will go onto read the next book, The Prisoner of Heaven.
I can only imagine how enchanting this quartet would be to read in Spanish but I’m grateful to Lucia Graves for the translation that allowed me to read this novel.
This book is available to buy from: Amazon UK / Book Depository
Yay – I’m so glad you have been enjoying Zafón’s books. Most people that I have discussed his books with have thought they were too cliché, but I personally love his romantic use of language and the fact that all the plots seem to center around the hidden library makes it all the more mysterious and enchanting for me! ❤
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Hmm, I don’t find them cliche at all, a little old fashioned maybe, but that’s expected due to the time period he’s set them in. I rather like the enchanting, yet eerie, atmosphere and look forward to continuing the series 🙂
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I only read the first. It’s difficult to follow up an amazing book though. Great review Janel!
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Thank you 😊 Yes, it’s definitely difficult to follow up. However, I’m looking forward to the third book as Daniel has a more central role so I think/hope it’ll be more closer to the magic of the first one.
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Great review! Pretty similar sentiments others have shared. I, for one, enjoyed it more than most…probably because I’d sell my soul for an opportunity like the one presented in this novel. 😉
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Haha, but your name wouldn’t be on the book, no one would know you even wrote it – still worth selling your soul for?
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For the sake of keeping a roof over my head and providing for my children, YES!
Because to that end, I’d be able to provide them with a place to call home where their talents would be nurtured and THEY could go on to do more incredible things.
My name will echo through the ages through my progeny, as a memory of a father who sacrificed everything for them. And that would be sufficient. 🙂
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Brilliant response 🙌🏾
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I’ve read them in Spanish 😛
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I thought you might’ve, whenever I read books translated from spanish, I always think of you!
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