The cautionary tale of a deadly legacy
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What is This Son of York?It is David Batten-Hill's debut thriller novel. Currently available in ebook format, for Amazon Kindle, Nook and other devices. This version can also be read on your PC or laptop computer.This Son of York is now also available as a physical paperback book. What is it about?The biggest killer in history returns to modern-day York…and it's looking for victims. A 14th Century corpse is unearthed by archaeology students Matt Walsh and John Simister. It brings with it a punishing legacy. Having lain dormant underground for hundreds of years, the plague is awakened and grows stronger than ever. Once set free, it never sleeps and it takes no prisoners. Science released York's new Black Death. The doctors, the police and the army can't stop it. Only one man can fight the mutated plague. To achieve victory over it, he must escape the clutches of crazed vigilantes, hell bent on executing him in the name of humanity. He must then survive two nightmare journeys to salvation. The thriller novel This Son of York gives an uncompromising portrayal of modern-day York's trial by pestilence. The accuracy of detail within the book is as uncompromising and as unrelenting as the story being told. Will York ever return to normality? The answer lies in This Son Of York's gritty narrative.
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Listen to a radio review here...
Lakeland Radio's Simon Yaxley hears what Cumbria Libraries' Reader Development and Stock Manager, Helen Towers, thinks about 'This Son of York'.
...and an author interview here
BBC Radio York's Russell Walker interviews David about 'This Son of York' and what inspired him to write it.
Reviews
First, a review from a UK reader who biught a paperback copy...
Great book! Held my interest from start to finish. Absolutely loved it, amazing. Mr. Batten-Hill's weaving of an increasingly oppressive atmosphere as the plague encroaches on York makes the book unputdownable. Highly recommended."
And these are genuine, 5-star reviews, posted on Amazon by people who bought and enjoyed reading 'This Son of York'...
Did not disappoint
I read This Son of York in a very short time. I could not put my Kindle down. I read until the wee hours of the morning,then got up and finished the book. Mr. Batten-Hill was able to transport me with his descriptions of places, happenings and the people.
When I read a book, I want to be transported and to "see" through the author's words, and Mr. Batten-Hill did not disappoint.
Jan O'Kane, Durham, North Carolina
This York Resident is Scared
I found that I couldn't put down my Kindle. I live in York so the story really came alive and I could picture myself in it. The fight to bring the plague under control was exciting and gory. I rooted for the heroes and had nightmares about the villains. I have looked around me today and imagined what my city would look like if half of us were dead.
I would highly recommend this book. How do you stop a killer that can't be seen?
Sarah Cusworth, York
Very Enjoyable Read
I have to say I found this a great book to read. The story is very well written and whilst I have not been to York the descriptions of the town add to the overall effectiveness of the story. The initial premise is a little bit of a stretch but once you get past that and accept it then the rest of the story is very believable
I normally enjoy books from the likes of Tom Clancy or George RR Martin however this was a welcome change of pace. The plot develops quickly in this book and hooks you in.
Richtea78
A Good Romp
This Son Of York is a well researched and well written adventure story based on the plausible consequences of an archeological dig in York. Each and every person in the city is exposed to an invisible threat.
While the style and content do have a wide appeal, those that know York well, as the author does, will find particular appeal.
The effects of mortal danger on ordinary individuals is observed, and the reader should wonder if, faced with the same strife, they would behave in the same selfish and aggressive manner. This is something each reader will have to contemplate for themself. I suggest honesty may not be the best policy.
Do enjoy the book
Martin Payne
Excellent!
A very enjoyable and engaging read. If you enjoyed watching "Contagion" but found it a bit dull in parts then this book is for you - a fast paced, gripping and believable storyline set in York, where the author obviously has an excellent grasp of the geography and history of the area. Personally I have never visited the city and found myself using google earth to look at the locations described just to see where the action was happening.
Well worth a read!
D. Farren
