The Blackthorn Key

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 suspenseful debut novel.

"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.

Binding Type: Hardcover
Publisher: Aladdin Paperbacks
Published: 09/01/2015
ISBN: 9781481446518
Pages: 384
Weight: 1.00lbs
Size: 8.30h x 5.80w x 1.40d
Award: Edgar Allan Poe Awards - Nominee
Award: Parents Choice Awards (Fall) (2008-Up) - Gold Medal Winner
Award: Cybils - Finalist

Review Citations: Publishers Weekly 06/29/2015
Kirkus Reviews 07/15/2015
School Library Journal 08/01/2015 pg. 91
Booklist 09/15/2015 pg. 65
New York Times Book Review 11/08/2015 pg. 29
Kirkus Best Middle Grade Books 11/15/2015 pg. 87
PW Children's Starred Reviews 12/02/2015 pg. 79
Bulletin of Ctr for Child Bks 12/01/2015

Accelerated Reader Quiz #/Name: 176195 / Blackthorn Key
Reading Level: 4.6 / Interest Level: Middle Grade / Point Value: 10