Name To a Face

Dive into a thrilling historical mystery with Robert Goddard's "Name to a Face," a captivating novel that weaves together centuries of secrets, shipwrecks, and hidden identities. This first edition hardcover, published by Bantam Press in 2007, is a masterclass in suspense from the author renowned as a "master of the clever twist." "Name to a Face" isn't just a story; it's a meticulously crafted puzzle box. The narrative unfurls across generations, linking seemingly disparate events with threads of intrigue and danger. The book opens with the tragic sinking of HMS Association in 1707, a maritime disaster shrouded in mystery. Decades later, a seemingly innocuous mission for an Admiralty clerk hints at deeper conspiracies connected to the wreck. The story then leaps forward to 1996, where a fatal diving accident at the site reawakens the past. Ten years after the diving accident, our protagonist, an expatriate, reluctantly returns home, tasked with a seemingly simple job. However, he quickly discovers that nothing is as it seems. His life takes an unexpected turn when he encounters a woman he recognizes, yet cannot place. This encounter becomes a catalyst, plunging him into a labyrinth of long-buried secrets and perilous truths. Goddard masterfully constructs a conspiracy of circumstances that threatens to unravel everything the protagonist thought he knew about his life and his past. Each clue is carefully placed, drawing the reader deeper into the intricate web of deceit, greed, and murder. The novels strength lies in its ability to keep you guessing, constantly shifting your understanding of the characters and their motivations. Prepare for red herrings, unexpected alliances, and shocking revelations as you journey through the past alongside the protagonist. More than just a mystery, "Name to a Face" explores themes of identity, memory, and the enduring power of the past to shape the present. Goddard's prose is sharp and evocative, creating a vivid sense of place and time, transporting readers from the treacherous seas of the 18th century to the present-day intrigue. If you enjoy historical mysteries with intricate plots, complex characters, and a healthy dose of suspense, "Name to a Face" is a must-read. This book is perfect for fans of authors like Ken Follett and Kate Mosse, and for anyone who appreciates a well-crafted thriller that keeps you guessing until the very last page. This sought after first edition is a great addition to any fans collection.