The Blackthorn Key

The Blackthorn Key

By Kevin Sands

10 ratings 11 reviews 13 followers
Book 1 of 4 in the  The Blackthorn Key Series
Interest LevelReading LevelReading A-ZATOSWord Count
Grades 4 - 8Grades 2 - 5n/a4.665451
Following a series of murders, an apothecary’s apprentice must solve puzzles and decipher codes in pursuit of a secret that could destroy the world in this “spectacular debut” (Kirkus Reviews, starred review).

“Tell no one what I’ve given you.”

Until he got that cryptic warning, Christopher Rowe was happy, learning how to solve complex codes and puzzles and creating powerful medicines, potions, and weapons as an apprentice to Master Benedict Blackthorn—with maybe an explosion or two along the way.

But when a mysterious cult begins to prey on London’s apothecaries, the trail of murders grows closer and closer to Blackthorn’s shop. With time running out, Christopher must use every skill he’s learned to discover the key to a terrible secret with the power to tear the world apart.

In his stunning debut novel, Kevin Sands brings readers on a heart-stopping adventure rich with suspense, mystery, and unforgettable characters.
Publisher: Aladdin
ISBN-13: 9781481446525
ISBN-10: 1481446525
Published on 5/3/2016
Binding: Paperback
Number of pages: 400

Book Reviews (13)

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I stumbled across this book at my local library and fully enjoyed it. A quick engaging read of about 5 hours for me. I found it a refreshing change to the usual garbage books that fill the shelves of libraries.

This book is so good.It is full with action and adventure.When a cult is coming for them and the plague is in its prime the action is endless.I would recommend it to anyone that is in grades 4-8 enjoy.

I love this book so much!!!!!!! You have to read the series.

Emily Emily

This series is the best series i have ever read

it is amazing

Sadly I don't live next to a library that has this book. I can't say how much I love this book! I really, really, really, really, really want this book!

The Blackthorn Key... phew. Can I just say how much I loved this book? It had everything I wanted, mystery, suspense, adventure. Everything is carefully planned and detailed. And then there’s this big reveal at the end. And Kevin Sands’s writing is the absolute B.E.S.T CHARACTERS- Christopher was the best! He is such a strong and loyal friend. He was funny and smart. I really liked Christopher’s backstory; I especially liked how he thinks well of his master. Tom was hilarious! He is so kind and loyal to Christopher even when Christopher is off doing something stupid. Characters? Bravo! SETTING- I really liked the time period in this novel. The 1600’s is an era that is not mentioned so much in books these days. And London! Oh, I love how London is set out for this novel! In all, bravo! This book was AMAZING in many different ways. I am so glad I happened to stumble upon this book! 5 stars from me!

Stariamoon259 Stariamoon259

I love this book! it is so cool! I would recommend it to others

When i read the story because my teacher said it was a good book, i thought i would be bad but it was good

Very gruesome! Only for kids 10 and older.

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