Two more book reviews as part of the Summer Reading Program. I’ve been meaning to get around to posting these reviews and this is as good an excuse as any. Both books are from the Dopple Ganger Chronicles series from G.P. Taylor. Enjoy.

Book 1: The First EscapeI had this book in my sights for years before I ever read it. The cover alone captured my attention and I knew that someday I would read it. But it wasn’t until I had the opportunity to request the third book of this series for review that I entered the world of the Dopple Ganger Chronicles. Either way, I’m glad I did, the stories are compelling, the artwork is stunning, and the experience is worthwhile.

Sadie and Saskia Dopple feel trapped. As twin orphans, they feel oppressed at Isambard, their orphanage and want nothing more than to escape their imprisonment. When writer Muzz Elliott shows up looking to adopt, the girls think they’ve found salvation, but Muzz only wants Saskia and the adventure begins.

Sadie escapes Isambard (with the help of Erik Morrisey Ganger) before facing severe punishment Sadie escapes Isambard (with the help of Erik Morrisey Ganger) before facing severe punishment and possible imprisonment. Together, they attempt to find Saskia so they won’t remain apart. Meanwhile Saskia finds trouble of her own as she uncovers a plot against Muzz Elliott and quickly realizes that she needs to escape a new prison of sorts.

Murder, intrigue, and close calls mark the pages of this introduction to the characters of this series, leaving the reader ready for the next installment.

Book 3: The Great Mogul DiamondMy Dopple Ganger adventure started here, with the twins reunited and living as adopted children of Muzz Elliott. Erik is fast becoming a detective under the tutelage of Dorcas Potts.

The action begins when Muzz receives a mysterious letter and the twins decide to investigate. What follows is an intricately crafted tale of blackmail, kidnapping, theft, high-speed chases, daring escapes, and betrayal. And there are some spiritual undertones (and overtones) that almost serve as speed bumps along the way. It’s easy to make the connections as they’re put forward, but Taylor’s motives for this approach are a little confusing. Ultimately, though, it’s about the story arc and in that sense, the book certainly delivers.

The Great Mogul Diamond enraptures readers with the intrigue of an “edge-of-your-seat” story line as we whisk along through the pages of the book at a breakneck pace. Those who stop now and again, however, are treated to the equally compelling illustrations that provide an appropriate backdrop to this uniquely-formatted novel. I enjoyed this book and I enjoy knowing that the littles (who liked it mostly for the pictures) will have more rewarding experiences with the text as they get a little older.

I expect the second book to come in the mail sometime soon and earnestly hope the rumors of this being a six-book series are true.

peace… love… bdg…