by Genevieve Cogman
Series: The Invisible Library #5
Genres: Fantasy
Source: Publisher
Purchase*: Amazon | Audible *affiliate
In the latest novel in Genevieve Cogman's historical fantasy series, the fate of worlds lies in the balance. When a dragon is murdered at a peace conference, time-travelling Librarian spy Irene must solve the case to keep the balance between order, chaos...and the Library.
When Irene returns to London after a relatively straightforward book theft in Germany, Bradamant informs her that there is a top secret dragon-Fae peace conference in progress that the Library is mediating, and that the second-in-command dragon has been stabbed to death. Tasked with solving the case, Vale and Irene immediately go to 1890s Paris to start their investigation.
Once they arrive, they find evidence suggesting that the murder victim might have uncovered proof of treachery by one or more Librarians. But to ensure the peace of the conference, some Librarians are being held as hostages in the dragon and Fae courts. To save the captives, including her parents, Irene must get to the bottom of this murder--but was it a dragon, a Fae, or even a Librarian who committed the crime?
The Mortal Word by Genevieve Cogman is the fifth book in the Invisible Library fantasy series. From the characters to the murder-mystery I had a fantastic time diving back into these worlds. Irene Winters, Vale, and Kai are called upon to investigate a murder that take place during peace talks between the Fae and the Dragons. Grab a cuppa and see why this series is a #mustread for fans of fantasy.
While each book contains a clever, suspenseful mystery this series is best read in the order of its release. Complex story arcs, relationships and incredible world building are built upon in each title.
A couple of things you need to know. Worlds ruled by or where Dragons dwell tend to be filled with order. As one would expect worlds where the Fae live or dwell tend to be filled with chaos. The Librarians collect books that are dangerous or need protection to keep the balance between order and chaos. Dragons and Fae by nature are sworn enemies. There are many different alternate worlds to the one that you live in, each slightly different based on the level of order or chaos.
The Librarians, Dragon royalty and Fae royalty are holding secret treaty talks in a Neutral version of Paris and the Library is acting as overseers. When a dragon is found murdered, and both the library and Fae are suspects a team is put together consists of one librarian, dragon and Fae. Vale, a “Sherlock” investigator from Irene’s current world is asked to investigate. Irene heads up their team.
Irene Winters, our brilliant protagonists is fearless and clever. A female Sherlock but one who is capable of working with the temperaments of the supernatural and navigating the political world. She is one of my favorite fictional characters. All of the secondary characters are developed and have unique personalities. As the series progresses we learn more about each. Kai, being a dragon is the most mysterious, but we know and understand the important things.
The stakes are high and the suspect list could tip the balance and end possible talks of peace. Oh, the excitement of it all. I loved the magic, the villains and even the creepy sweet princess of the Fae. Red herrings, twists and intense magic filled action-scenes held me captive. Cogman’s stories are magic and she completely pulls me into the stories she creates.
I find the abilities of the librarians, Fae and Dragons most intriguing. The author has done an incredible job of putting her own twist on things. Without bogging the story down, Cogman brings the world(s) and action to life much like Rowling’s Harry Potter Books but for adults.
Brilliant and addictive with a well executed murder-mystery, The Mortal Word left me hoping we will have more adventures with Irene and her motley crew.
Brilliant and addictive with a well executed murder-mystery, The Mortal Word by Genevieve Cogman delivered for fans of #InvisibleLibrary #fantasy #mystery Share on X
About Kimberly
Kimberly is a coffee loving book addict who reads and listens to fictional stories in all genres. Whovian, Ravenclaw, Howler and proud Nonna. She owns and manages Caffeinated PR. The coffee is always on and she is ready to chat. BlueSky | Facebook | Instagram
Olivia Roach
I am glad you were able to like this installment in the series and especially the murder mystery aspect of this one. It sounds like you loved it. I actually recently bought the first book in the series and I am very much looking forward to reading it when I have the time.
Ailyn Koay
this is going to end up on my backlist challenge I reckon
Kimberly
Sweet!
Katherine @ I Wish I Lived in a Library
I bought the first one ages ago when it first came out and really meant to read it but I haven’t yet. I’m glad to hear the series is still going strong and this one really sounds like one I’d love.
Kimberly
I hope you dig in soon!
Angie Elle
When I first read the blurb to this series, I thought of The Great Library series. Are they similar at all?
Great review. It’s clear you love the series!
Kimberly
This is more Sherlock with paranormal/fantasy and the other series is more Kingdom Hearts with high fantasy. Does that make sense? Knowledge and books are not forbidden in these worlds. In the Great Library series knowledge is kept from everyone.
lisa thomson
This series sounds amazing, Kim. I don’t know how I go through life not knowing these authors. This author sounds quite brilliant. I’ll have to begin with book 1. 🙂
Kimberly
LOL. This is one to read. I hope you begin them.
Heidi
Five books. How did I let this series get away from me? Glad you are still loving it.
Kimberly
I’ve had some series do that to me Heidi and of course this book came almost a month earlier than I expected and I almost missed it.
sjhigbee
Thank you for your superb review:). I’ve read the first three books in this series and need to catch up – you’ve reminded me of all the reasons why I enjoyed it so much…
Kimberly
Ooo you are in for some excitement. Enjoy catching up!
Anne
YES! This was one of my favorites. Some may be trying to keep Irene on the outside of things but she is right there finding the truth and knowledgeable about almost everything. Except maybe the library. Anne – Books of My Heart
Kimberly
I adore Irene.
Angela Adams
Interesting series. Maybe episodes in the future on the SciFye Channel? Thanks for the post.
Kimberly
Maybe. This series has so many elements I love from mystery to fantasy.
Debbie Haupt
Yet another fantastic series that’s still on my wish list. Maybe if I clone myself Ha!
Thanks Kim for the super review, glad this one still does it for you!
Kimberly
Yes or we need some kind of a time stopper.
sherry fundin
I love the sound of this series. Makes me think of The Librarians TV show. Who would dare to murder a dragon?
Kimberly
Oh that series is a fun one!
Melliane
I keep hearing ans seeing this one and I confess that I’m really really curious!
Kimberly
I do hope you devour them!
Darlene
It’s great when you love a series so much. It’s the best getting back to a world you’re already familiar with.
Kimberly
Agreed, the cool thing here is that whilst we know the characters we also explore other worlds and versions of the cities we know.