Robert Harris is an author that never fails to inform and entertain me. He is known for his historical books, like Imperium, which is about ancient Rome or Fatherland, which is about Nazi Germany, but The Second Sleep shows a new side to Harris as this is a completely fictional book and not based on any particular historical time or historical figure. Yet Harris’ skills of making his characters come alive, and his attention to detail and context are fully utilized, making this a truly enjoyable read!

Christopher Fairfax is on his way to a remote village in Exmoor to conduct the funeral service of Father Lacy, a fellow priest. Lacy had been in this remote parish for many years and although there had been some small little scandal and a whiff of heresy early in his career, Lacy had quietly and diligently served his parishioners. Fairfax, who has never yet conducted a funeral service himself was surprised when the Bishop tasked him to do this but feels a sense of excitment to be finally be able to do the work for which he has been called.

When Fairfax finally arrives at the village, wet and cold from the rain, he is invited by Agnes, Father Lacy’s, housekeeper, and her daughter Rose to stay in in the vicarage until he has performed the service for Father Lacy. His room is Father Lacy’s study and soon Fairfax is examining strange artifacts, of glass and bones and other items as well as Lacy’s diaries. Fairfax soon realizes that Lacy was involved in deeply heretical activities, excavating and collecting artifacts from ancient times and that his death may have been somehow related to these activities.

Trying to find out more about Father Lacy’s activities, and the mystery surrounding his death, Fairfax enlists the help of Lady Durstan and Captain Hancock as well as Agnes and Rose. But each step forward in trying to solve the mystery, creates more internal conflict for Fairfax as he wrestles with how the truth he is uncovering directly contradicts with church doctrine and all he has been taught about the past.

Gripping, with many surprising and twists and turns that keep you glued to the end, this is just the beginning of a new series by Harris so stay tuned for the next installment!

Brenda’s Rating: ****(4 Out 0r 5 Stars)

Recommend this Book to: Marian, Ken and Keith

Book Study Worthy? Yes

Read in ebook format.