Archibald Lox Volume 1: The Missing Princess

Book excerpt: The start of a thrilling new fantasy series by the New York Times bestselling author of Cirque Du Freak. "A brisk, entertaining tale that unfolds in a wonderfully bizarre world." Kirkus. When a young locksmith finds his way into the Merge, he discovers a parallel universe filled with an infinite number of unique, remarkable worlds. Setting off on the adventure of a lifetime, he soon makes allies and friends, but must also overcome the threat of cold-blooded killers, ravenous hell jackals, evil Empresses and more. As his skills develop, he finds himself part of a perilous mission to save a realm from the forces of tyranny, but he holds the key to its success or failure, and he fears he might not be up to the task. The greatest challenge of his life awaits... This is the complete Volume One, bringing together (and presenting as a single story) the first three novels, Archibald Lox and the Bridge Between Worlds, Archibald Lox and the Empress of Suanpan, and Archibald Lox and the Vote of Alignment. "I read quite a lot during lockdown but nothing made me smile quite as much as these first three instalments in the Archibald Lox series." The Bookbag. "A masterwork of atmospheric writing. I would not hesitate to recommend Archibald Lox: The Missing Princess to fans of Shan’s existing back-catalog of thrilling dark fantasy adventures, as well as newcomers to the shadowy side of paranormal and magical fiction." Readers' Favorite. "Shan has created an alternative world that is extraordinary and imaginative with fantastical creatures that both delight and horrify. A soon-to-be fantasy classic." The US Review of Books. "Archibald Lox: The Missing Princess is fantasy, mystery, and a coming of age story all in one. It's a gripping saga that will be appreciated not just by young adult audiences, but by adults who enjoy other strong YA authors who create fantasy worlds appealing to young and old alike." Midwest Book Review. "The Archibald Lox series is exactly what the world needs right now. It is inventive, magical and fantastical, terrifically readable and a lot of fun." Addicted to Media. "Filled with fantastic characters, true to form description, and Shan's distinct writing style, Archibald Lox is sure to enthrall readers of all ages." The Haunted Wordsmith. "High fantasy that allows you to step away from the real world and into a vivid space of wonder." The Reading Corner For All. "Perfect for fans of adventurous fantasy stories!" Mind of Luxe. "I loved everything about the story, and can't wait to see how it continues!" Rajiv's Reviews. "I believe that the Archibald Lox series has the potential to be the author's best work since The Saga of Darren Shan, it has the magical, dream-like overtones of Lewis Carroll's Alice books and the captivating, world-hopping drama of Philip Pullman's His Dark Materials. I can't recommend it highly enough, perfect for fantasy fans of all ages." Books, Films & Random Lunacy.