Reading order
| # | Title | Published | Author | Buy on Amazon |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Devices and Desires | 2005 | Tom Holt | Buy |
| 2 | Evil for Evil | 2006 | Tom Holt | Buy |
| 3 | The Escapement | 2007 | Tom Holt | Buy |
Devices and Desires (2005) introduces Ziani Vaatzes, an engineer in a rigidly controlled guild state who is condemned to death for a minor deviation from approved specifications. He escapes and sets in motion a chain of events that reshapes the political map.
The trilogy is built around the idea that a single skilled engineer, given enough time and materials, can outmaneuver entire armies. Parker fills the books with detailed descriptions of metalwork, manufacturing, and logistics. Evil for Evil (2006) and The Escapement (2007) complete the story.