The ending is dynamic and rewarding, with just the right blend of the fantastical and realistic. Sands integrates a series of fun and interesting riddles and codes with chemistry concepts-no easy feat.

The story is well paced, managing not only to keep readers hooked, but also second guessing everything they think they know. The more that the protagonist uncovers, the more he finds himself in danger, along with his loyal-to-a-fault best friend. After losing his master, Christopher begins to unravel a series of complex codes that his master had, unbeknownst to Chris, been preparing him to solve all along. Set in the 1600s, the story revolves around Christopher Rowe, the apprentice to a Master Apothecary. It’s a story that should have broad appeal, while especially intriguing readers with an existing interest in chemistry, history, and decoding puzzles.'Īn auspicious debut middle grade novel. Sands adeptly balances the novel’s darker turns with moments of levity and humor, and fills the book with nicely detailed characters and historical background-plus lots of explosions. 'First-time novelist Sands has written an exciting and self-assured tale of alchemy and dark secrets. 'Magic, adventure, and things that go boom-I love this book.' This thrilling adventure will keep you hooked.' Kevin Sands has created an engaging, kind-hearted, and humorous young hero in apothecary's apprentice Christopher Rowe. He is joining us to introduce our audience to his middle grade historical THE BLACKTHORN KEY, what inspires him to write for middle-grade readers, Where did he get the idea for his new series.īe sure to tune in as we discuss THE BLACKTHORN KEY, How important it is for kids to have books where they can identify with the characters, some other children’s books written by Kevin, her upcoming books and more.'Captivating! A masterful page-turner brimming with secrets, traps, friendship, intrigue, pigeons, potions, loyalty, and explosions. Kevin Sands brings readers on a heart-stopping adventure rich with suspense, mystery, and unforgettable characters in The Blackthorn Key. If you love children’s middle-grade adventures as much as we do, you’re going to LOVE our conversation with #1 bestselling author of THE BLACKTHORN KEY series, Kevin Sands!

In Conversation with Kevin Sands – Author of “The Blackthorn Key Series” Visit Creative & Fun Ways for Your Kids to Explore the World! Choose an Award-Winning Subscription Designed by Parents and Educators for Curious Kids.

The blackthorn key series