Tobias (The Triptych Chronicle Book 1) by Prue Batten

WordsAPlenty received a copy of Tobias (The Triptych Chronicle Book 1) by Prue Batten in exchange for an honest review.
Tobias and his twin brother, Tomas are dwarf minstrels traded at an early age to a Jewish merchant of Venice. The merchant, Gisborne, has arranged many a dangerous adventures for Tomas and Tobias. This adventure is no different – they seek to claim the Tyrian purple – a beautiful and controlled dye that only the most royal may possess and can only be found in Constantinople.
A slip from the lips of a small child, a greedy power seeking fool, and an empire that wishes to remove all those of the Komemna line create a most dangerous and deadly experience for the twin brothers.
An exciting book that introduces several characters all tied to one another in an intricate manner. This is a wonderful piece of historical fiction filled with adventure, danger and twists.
Prue Batten does an excellent job of developing the plot, exposing raw emotions, and connecting to her readers. Furthermore her character development is excellent. From the beginning the reader feels a connection to the twins but also their connection to one another. It is demonstrated throughout the book but most eloquently voiced by Sir Gisborne:
“Tobias, you and I have been kindred, have we not? For a long time. And I see in you what others may not. I see a heart that is bigger than a giant’s and you take so much into that heart. So I say this to you my friend. Feel your pain. Do not run from it but equally do not let it consume you. Eventually there will be a blink of a tie when you notice something inherently lovely. Do not reject it, let it enter your spirit. In time, your rage will quench and you will be able to live with your loss.”
Batten eloquently expresses emotions and thoughts fluidly and clearly revealing the character in all their brutal honesty.
I enjoyed the book as it was well written and captivating. I hated to see the book end. I cannot wait to read where life takes Mehmet, Ahmed, Tobias, Gisborne and the others.
WordsAPlenty gives this book a well-deserved five star rating.
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