Reviewed in the United States on February 17, 2026 — Verified Purchase

This novel is ambitious, intelligent, and completely immersive. The blend of medieval history, secret orders, genetic memory, and plague-era suspense makes it feel both epic and intimate at the same time. I especially loved the dynamic between Thomas and Margarethe—her visual memory and strength balancing his scholarship created such a compelling partnership. The historical detail feels rich without being overwhelming, and the larger philosophical conflict about knowledge, control, and survival lingers long after the final page. A gripping, thought-provoking read for fans of historical thrillers with depth and heart.

Reviewed in the United States on February 16, 2026 — Verified Purchase

The Aethelred Cipher by Randy Pellegrini is a gripping blend of historical intrigue and conspiracy that pulls you straight into the shadows of the Black Death. The medieval setting feels richly researched without ever slowing the pace, and the mystery at the heart of the story kept me guessing until the end. Pellegrini weaves architecture, coded secrets, and high-stakes danger into a story that feels both intelligent and cinematic. If you enjoy historical thrillers with depth, atmosphere, and a touch of the unexpected, this is a strong start to The Architecture of Survival series.

Reviewed in the United States on February 16, 2026 — Verified Purchase

What makes The Aethelred Cipher stand out is the way it takes a familiar historical moment, the Black Death and reframes it through a lens that feels fresh. The author of this book builds a layered conspiracy full of hidden motives. You're not just reading about the events unfolding, you're being invited to consider how knowledge, secrecy, and survival shape entire civilizations.

The character in the book isn't a knight, a spy, or a chosen hero—he's a scribe. When he's thrown into danger, the stakes feel sharper because he has no power except his mind and his ability to read what others overlook. His outlook turns the conspiracy into a puzzle rather than a chase.

The author clearly did the historical homework when putting this read together. The medieval feels textured and the plague becomes more than a backdrop, it's a character and a force. This is the kind of book that throws its threads across time. The ending doesn't just resolve the plot, it widens the horizon. A great way to read about medieval…in modern language.

Reviewed in the United States on February 16, 2026 — Verified Purchase

This book was both gripping and thought-provoking. Set against the devastation of the Black Death, the story combines suspense, history, and big ideas about survival, knowledge, and the power of passing wisdom across generations. Thomas and Margarethe's journey felt personal and meaningful, especially as their partnership grew under constant danger. What stood out most was the deeper message—that true resilience comes from sharing knowledge, not controlling it. It's a compelling read that stays with you long after the final page.

Reviewed in the United States on February 17, 2026 — Verified Purchase

The Aethelred Cipher starts with a bang, a dying monk in a monastery, and a top-secret manuscript given to Thomas for safekeeping and a special mission. The Gray Robes, a clandestine society, is hunting him and the book he guards. While trying to survive and escape, he meets Margarethe, his teacher, mentor, and protector. Margarethe believes his survival skills need a lot of work and that her contacts are necessary for him to succeed on his mysterious mission. Readers will find this novel interesting and a great escape to foreign places, secrets, and mayhem.

Reviewed in the United States on February 14, 2026 — Verified Purchase

Love a good mystery action thriller combo! A cat & mouse vibe. Thomas finds the "cipher", Margarethe confirms rumors. They are both solving the riddle to make everything connect. It's a puzzle. As the reader you are definitely on the ride with them. Very layered. The scary part is what he finds has tremendous power like TREMENDOUS. Oh and they are getting chased by a group of powerful people that want to keep the "cipher's" secrets hush. I love that he has Margarethe to help by making sure they are always 1 step ahead. The author does a great job at making history relevant to the reader. Great read.

Reviewed in the United States on February 21, 2026 — Verified Purchase

A very interesting read for anyone interested in historical context, conspiracy theories, adventure, and/or continuous story telling! Overall it has a captivating plot that just keeps giving. This is the first book of a 12 book series and I can't wait to read more!

Reviewed on Amazon — Verified Purchase

A book full of medieval intrigue—it grabs you from the first scene.

Reviewed in the United States on February 18, 2026 — Verified Purchase

This is a fun story. There is danger, adventure, knife fights, conspiracy, companionship, intrigue, and the plague. What isn't to like? The story is thought-provoking, and the 'villain' is believable. I could see the story being not so far from the truth. I love this as a starter book for young adventurers. The characters show good development. There are a few story points that did not add up; however, they are easily missed and do not detract from the story enough to make it unenjoyable.

Reviewed on Amazon — Verified Purchase

Was enjoyable. I liked the twists and intrigue.