The Dragon Tree

Title: The Dragon Tree

Author: Julia Ibbotson

Genre: Romance, time travel, historical

Series: Dr Du Lac Series Book 2 of 3

Publisher: Archbury Books

Published Date: 2022

Book Length: 402

Format Read: E book

Star Rating: 5***** I loved it a lot and highly recommend

About Book: Echoes of the past resonate through time and disturb medievalist Dr DuLac as she struggles with misfortune in the present. She and Rev Rory have escaped to the island of Madeira on a secondment from their posts, yet they are not to find peace – until they can solve the mystery of the shard of azulejo and the ancient ammonite. Viv’s search brings her into contact with two troubled women: a noblewoman shipwrecked on the island in the 14th century and a rebellious nun from the 16th century. As Viv reaches out across the centuries, their lives become intertwined, and she must uncover the secrets of the ominous Dragon Tree in order to locate lost artefacts that can shape the future.

My Thoughts: The Dragon Tree by Julia Ibbotson is a historical romance with a time-travel twist and the second book in the Dr Du Lac series. Although I typically prefer to read a series in order, having already read books one and three, I found that this instalment works well as a standalone.

I love getting invested in a series, and this one is no exception. The depth of character development makes Dr Du Lac a truly immersive experience. Julia Ibbotson has crafted Dr. Vivienne Du Lac so vividly that she feels like an old friend, complete with all her idiosyncrasies and flaws.

The pacing of the book is spot on, with each chapter propelling the story forward with purpose. My favourite parts are the time slips, where the tension and connections between past and present feel almost tangible. If you're a fan of Barbara Erskine’s books, you'll find a lot to love here.

Overall, The Dragon Tree is a compelling blend of history, romance, and time travel. Julia Ibbotson's storytelling is both engaging and atmospheric, making this a worthy addition to the series. Whether you're new to Dr Du Lac or a returning reader, this book is a captivating journey through time.