The Room of Lost Steps

A Novel (Theo Sterling, Book 2)

By: Simon Tolkien

Narrated by: Thom Rivera

An American boy with impossible dreams is thrust into the cauldron of the Spanish Civil War in this arresting and thrilling historical coming-of-age epic and sequel to The Palace at the End of the Sea.

Barcelona 1936. Theo helps the Anarchist workers defeat the army that is trying to overthrow the democratically elected government, and he is reunited with his true love, Maria. But all too soon, his joy turns to terror as the Anarchists turn on him, led by a rival for Maria’s affection.

Lucky to escape with his life, Theo returns to England to study at Oxford. But his heart is in Spain, now torn apart by a bloody civil war, and he is quick to abandon his new life when his old schoolmate Esmond offers him the chance to fight the Fascists. He is unprepared for the nightmare of war that crushes his spirit and his hope until, back in Barcelona, Theo is confronted with a final terrible choice that will define his life forever.

As Theo’s tumultuous coming-of-age journey reaches its end, can his dream to change the world—so far from home—still hold true?

©2025 by Simon Tolkien. (P)2025 Brilliance Publishing, Inc., all rights reserved.

Critic reviews

“Tolkien’s minute-by-minute accounts of the battles of Jarama and Brunete unfold in harrowing and intimate detail, and his fluid prose captures the conflict’s assorted ideologies and alliances while crafting a very human story of soul-searching and struggle.”—Publishers Weekly

“The Room of Lost Steps continues the author’s historical fiction [saga] that blends a continuing coming-of-age story with politically sponsored action and adventure…Highly recommended.”—Midwest Book Review

Outstanding story

An incredible story that draws you in from the very first moment! The characters are so captivating that you can't help but become invested in their journey.