The Lizardine Empire is under threat. When Mycroft Holmes is murdered in London, it is up to retired shadow executive Smith to track down his killer - and stumble on the greatest conspiracy of his life. Mycroft's protege, returns from Abyssinia with an ancient device that summons deadly, giant tripods. Across the ocean, a young Harry Houdini faces death...and the return of an enemy once thought vanquished. File Under: Steampunk [ Alternate History! | Victorians Bite | End Of Days | Oooo-Laaaaah ] "The juicy backstory is unfolded by Tidhar, making it a key part of what makes the narrative so compelling...skilful, clever and hugely enjoyable. 4 ****" - SFX Magazine