Today’s review is about THE INSIDE STORY OF THE BRITISH BUREAU FOR THE ARCANE by Phil Parker. It’s a short and relatively fast-paced mystery I liken to a cross between James Bond and Fantastic Beasts.

Author: Phil Parker
Series: None
Age Category: Adult
Publisher: Self-Published
Publish Date: September 29, 2024
Print Length: 216

Those interested in purchasing The Inside Story of the British Bureau for the Arcane can do so on Amazon.*

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The Inside Story of the British Bureau for the Arcane Synopsis

The British Bureau for the Arcane has kept people safe for centuries from the arcane species that seek to harm human beings. Their range extends to Commonwealth nations that were part of the British Empire. A once-proud part of the British Secret Service, their success in controlling the arcane races has been their downfall. These beings now live on the edge of survival in remote parts of Britain. Or, at least they did.

For Arlo Austin, a loyal but troubled agent for the Bureau, something is wrong. When he’s sent to protect the citizens of the Shetland Isles from rampaging Norwegian trolls, it soon becomes apparent it was an attempt on his life. When another agent dies in mysterious circumstances, and Arlo is warned of an impending war with arcane species, his instincts are proved right.

But who is behind this rebellion? Could it be linked to Arlo’s own bloodline as a Dark Elf? His traumatic childhood holds secrets, ones that are going to test his loyalty to the Bureau. In their cells, another Dark Elf is held prisoner, one who is so despised by its staff, their hatred has extended to Arlo. This species is violent and vengeful, can they recruit one of their own to bring about the destruction of the Bureau? And in so doing, enable the arcane races to wage war against the human race.

The Inside Story of the British Bureau for the Arcane Review

I received a free, digital, advanced reading copy of this book from the author. My review is my own and reflects my honest opinion about this book.

THE INSIDE STORY OF THE BRITISH BUREAU FOR THE ARCANE is James Bond meets Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them. Rescued as a child during WWII and adopted by a member of the Bureau, Arlo now works for the institution. As a Dark Elf, the last of his kind, Arlo endured decades of racist insults, including from colleagues. This, in part, shaped the kind of person Arlo is: fiercely loyal, stubborn, and always doing what’s right. However, after a botched Norwegian troll expedition, Arlo starts getting warnings about how something isn’t quite right within the Bureau, shaking his faith in his work.

My favorite thing about this short novel is how Parker naturally intertwines mythological creatures into the story. The reason the Bureau exists is to protect the arcane. The arcane are essentially any races that aren’t human. There were some creatures I recognized and others I did not. I enjoyed reading Arlo’s recollections of some of his missions to serve these races. I also particularly liked how the nefarious actions of some races influenced human history.

The broad scope of THE INSIDE STORY OF THE BRITISH BUREAU FOR THE ARCANE is a high stakes mystery. If Arlo can’t figure out who’s after him and why, then his life and the function of the Bureau–and, ergo, the protection of the arcane–are forfeit. While I followed most of the mystery, I personally would’ve appreciated a little more foreshadowing. The pieces all came together rather quickly, though perhaps that is the nature of a short novel.

The writing style is easy to sink into and casual without being overly so. However, I think one more editorial pass would sort out the errant commas that unnecessarily break up some sentences and focus the story a little more. There are a few poignant quips or observations about society, which I always appreciate. (I would share, but it appears my Kindle didn’t save my highlights!) The ending wraps things up nicely and, conveniently, leaves the door open for future adventures.

Rating: 3.5
Content warnings: blood, death, torture (off page)
Reading format: Kindle e-book

For additional thoughts about THE BRITISH BUREAU FOR THE ARCANE, check out a review by SFF Insiders. And if you liked this book, you might enjoy DREADFUL by Caitlin Rozakis.