I received this book in exchange for a review from David Fickling Books. Jack is your average pick-pocket who at the beginning of this book picks the wrong pocket and ends up knee-deep in a black magic conspiracy full of magicians, demons and the odd hanging all set in Elizabethan London.
I really enjoyed the start to this new fantasy series. There is a crime organisation a little reminiscent of Fagan's band of children, who are a 'family' and don't really look out for each other that well. There is a creepy sect of priests up to something nefarious. And there may be one or two demons or magicians who are actually on the good side. This was a fantastic quick ride, although it does take a little time to get used to the slang and for Jack to work out something weird is going on. I really enjoyed some of the supporting characters who were on Jack's 'team'', especially Beth and Kit who I hope will play larger roles in the next book. Overall I enjoyed this book immensely and am excited to see where the story will go in the sequel. ( )