The Lazarus Vault by Tom Harper

The Lazarus Vault by Tom Harper, current chair of the CWA (Crime Writer’s Association), is a wonderful adventure spanning eight centuries beginning in early 12^th century England.

I have to admit I was captivated by the jacket cover, a vibrant yellow/cream design with a dynamic golden key invoking bountiful treasures held within the pages of Harper’s novel. In an era where book jackets and videos are having a greater impact on book sales, an alluring first impression is vital, certainly for the authors readers have yet to discover – it can mean the difference between buying the book or choosing a more enticing book further along the shelf.

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The story intriguingly follows two timelines, the 12^th century written from a first person narrative and the present day following the trials and tribulations of Ellie Stanton. When I first began reading the book I wondered how I would cope with such an obvious divide, but it soon became apparent that the two stories were intertwined; it was just a case of figuring out how!

The narrative is slick and the unusual mix of first person past (12^th century) and third person present works remarkably well. The Lazarus Vault is without doubt a prolific page turner, written in an adventurous Dan Brown style, you’re guaranteed an endless journey full of twists, turns and discovery – I couldn’t put the book down, finishing the 470 pages in two sittings.

Ellie Stanton, an impoverished graduate student, has recently begun a PhD in the subject she loves. Out of the blue comes an invitation from the director of the Monsalvat bank in London to discuss possible career opportunities. The bank is a small and highly secretive concern – it offers privilege and wealth beyond Ellie’s wildest dreams.  She is immediately offered a job, fabulous starting salary and an unlimited credit card where nothing is off-limits. Sounds too good to be true? You bet!

It doesn’t take Ellie long to figure out her life will never be the same, her relationship with her boyfriend Doug is questioned and the strains of work and endless first class travel slowly but surely causing friction. Behind her employ is the enigmatic and mysterious Vivian Blanchard who has his own very personal reasons in looking after her.

Peter of Camros, also known as Chretien de Troyes is a 12^th century story-teller, knight and traveller. At just eight years of age he witnesses the brutal slaying of his family and vows to avenge their deaths. Peter tells a story of bravery, romance and honour with certain aplomb.

The sights and sounds of 12^th century England and Wales come to life in Harper’s magical prose effortlessly relaying the stark contrast between 12^th century poverty and present day affluence.

Atmospheric and imaginative, The Lazarus Vault will tease and tantalise and take you on a charismatic journey across the globe.

Published by Arrow the book is available at Amazon & The Book Depository