Engaging with a Time-Warped Mystery: A Review of A Tangle of Time (The Hexologists, #2) by Josiah Bancroft
When I first opened A Tangle of Time, the second installment in Josiah Bancroft’s The Hexologists series, I felt a thrill of anticipation wash over me. Having enjoyed the first book, I couldn’t wait to plunge back into its vibrant world of magic, mystery, and eccentric characters. Bancroft’s ability to craft engaging tales mixed with a dash of the fantastical truly captured my imagination, and this sequel did not disappoint.
Set against the atmospheric backdrop of Berbiton, we find our inseparable duo, Isolde and Warren Wilby, grappling with the consequences of their newfound reputation. They’ve become something of local legends, solving crimes with a flair that leaves the police feeling inept. Isolde’s relentless curiosity, coupled with her moral compass, drives the story forward as she navigates a new narrative tangled in timelines and ethical dilemmas. The moment Isolde receives a troubling letter and later finds herself at the scene of a murder—only to be swept back in time—was where my heart raced, marking the start of a thrilling ride filled with unexpected turns.
Bancroft’s exploration of time travel felt refreshing and unique. Instead of sticking to cliché tropes, he imbues the concept with immediate stakes, demonstrating how changes ripple outwards, culminating in almost catastrophic consequences. I was particularly enchanted by his portrayal of the moon’s transformation into “The Lovers,” a tangible marker of how much had shifted in the wake of Isolde’s attempts to solve the mystery. This clever integration of fantasy elements only served to deepen my appreciation for the world Bancroft has created.
Furthermore, the characters themselves are where the heart of this story truly lies. Isolde is a wonderfully flawed heroine—impulsive, fiery, and fiercely dedicated to uncovering the truth. In contrast, Warren is the calm to her storm, and their relationship is a heartwarming mix of love and understanding. Their dynamic struck a chord with me; it’s refreshing to see a literary couple who not only accept each other’s quirks but celebrate them. Their genuine connection lent a cozy vibe to the narrative, even as the stakes grew more dire.
Though I found myself utterly captivated, I did notice some pacing issues, particularly in the middle section where obstacles piled up one after another, causing the main mystery to feel momentarily overshadowed. However, Bancroft masterfully kept my interest alive throughout, as I was eager to witness how each thread would unravel by the end.
Overall, I give A Tangle of Time a sparkling five out of five stars. The intricate weaving of mystery, time travel nuances, and rich world-building left me in awe, while the Wilbies solidified their place among my favorite fictional characters. For anyone drawn to a fantasy mystery set in an alternate 1920s steeped in gaslit charm, I implore you to dive into this book. It’s more than just a story; it’s an experience that will linger long after you turn the last page. I can’t wait for the next adventure in this enthralling series!
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