Worth Its Weight in Gold
G.P. Taylor's Mariah Mundi

Taylor's first book, Shadowmancer, was self-published while he was still an Anglican priest. After the book became a big success, he was signed up by major publisher Penguin (Faber in the UK, Putnam in the US). He then resigned as a parish priest and became a full time author.

It's easy to see why he has enjoyed this success - a good imaginative plot, delightful, varied description and clearly drawn characters make Mariah Mundi an entertaining book to read. It also displays the more classical trait of offering more to enjoy the second time around. It's no wonder that the BBC have been quoted as saying he's the new C.S. Lewis.

G.P. Taylor is a man with almost limitless imagination; he draws the reader into his world of mad inventions, sea monsters, underground tunnels and evil characters with evil ambitions. Mix in a magical casket capable of turning any object into gold, and you have a prize worth fighting for. Add a little light romance and a leading character with fine human qualities, and the scene is set.

Mariah Mundi is the first in a series of 7 books. Already it has attracted rave reviews, and a global following is most on the horizon. Recently the author famously held a treasure hunt in his hometown of Scarborough to celebrate the launch of Mariah Mundi. Collectors from around the globe traveled for a chance to meet the author and win exclusive rare prizes.

Synopsis (quoted from dust jacket):

"Fresh out of school, young Mariah faces a new chapter of his life living in the Prince Regent Hotel, which is built into the side of a cliff. His job is to assist the magician in the stage shows held for the guests. Above ground, the hotel offers every form of luxury. Below ground, between the slimy, green dripping walls of the basement, is where the magic-show equipment is kept - and lurking in an Egyptian sarcophagus among scuttling sea-creatures is a secret that draws Mariah into the path of villainy and possible death."