The Gryphon : In which the extraordinary correspondence of Griffin & Sabine is rediscovered

In Gryphon we move on from Griffin and Sabine to Matthew and Isabella, another pair of star-crossed lovers. Don't worry, G & S are still there, just in a murkier role. Sabine needs help from archaeologist Matthew, but the meaning behind her request is all smoke and mirrors. As with all the other books in the series, the art is amazing, even if the story has gotten a little too cloaked in mystery.

(The same review is posted for all 3 books in the 2nd Griffin & Sabine trilogy -- the Morning Star trilogy.)

In this series, we meet Isabella and Matthew, whose lives seem to echo Griffin & Sabine's in some ways and who seem to be drawn into this sort of supernatural struggle with Griffin & Sabine and the sinister villain who is doing whatever he can to change the course of their lives.

I don't know why, I just didn't like these as much. I didn't like Isabella and Matthew's story as much as Griffin and Sabine's - I felt it was too contrived. And I didn't particularly enjoy Griffin & Sabine's involvement in Matthew & Isabella's story either. I just didn't.

But I will say, that if you're mushy gushy and like a little sex-talk in your show more postcards, this will probably appeal to you :) Other than that, I thought it was OK and I was eager to keep reading, but they weren't my favorites. If I were to recommend Bantock's books, I would probably recommend the original trilogy & the 7th book (The Pharos Gate).

This book - 3 and a half stars; the series as a whole, 3 stars. show less

In general I love the whole concept of this series, and still aesthetically loved the experience of the book. However, it could have done without all of the exotification of other cultures.

The continuing story of Sabine & Griffin becomes intertwined with other characters. I lost interest in the series because I could never figure out what was actually going on and quite frankly, I don't trust Bantock to ever enlighten us! Still admiring the art. Somewhat reminds me of Charles Van Sandwyk's illustrations.

I know I must be over the edge--but when these first came out, I was absolutely breathless for the next in the series to appear, and I just read those letters again and again--and now I treasure them as if they are from friends. So if I have lost my mind--I don't care. These are the ultimate love letters not only preserved but beautifully presented.

A beautiful book that adds a new dimmension to the Griffin and Sabine story. This definitely isn't a stand-alone work, but for those already familiar with this world and willing to commit to the next two volumes, it's pure pleasure.

Griffin and Sabine have disappeared and suddenly Sabine appears and asks for help from and archeologist in Egypt. This book is filled with danger and strange forces. Matthew and Isabella must unlock the secret world they have become a part of.