Factotum | ||||||||
D.M. Cornish | ||||||||
HarperVoyager, 506 pages | ||||||||
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A review by John Enzinas
Rosamund does well in his lady's service, until on a day off, he chances to make a friend who brings him to
an secret Monster-Baiting club. Undone by his good nature, he uses his alchemical potions to rescue a monster
from the ring. Although he escapes in a most hair-raising manner, he is still identified and tracked back to
Europe's mansion by the owner of the club, Pater Maupin. He promises vengeance on Rosamund and those who
succor him, but Europe finds his threats empty and drives him off.
Still she decides that perhaps leaving town for some time would be wise, and agrees to some hunting
contracts. While on their journey, they are attacked by Maupin's men and only just survive. They meet with
some new friends of like mind who give them refuge while they heal and it is with a heavy heart that they
leave their company. Still, they cannot stay away from Brandenbrass forever and so once they are able
to travel once more, they return to see what lay in store for them.
They discover some terrible news from Rosamund's old station, but are relieved by the few silver linings
that dark cloud contains. Europe begins planning a lavish party to celebrate her return but she keeps many
of the details from Rosamund. And from there, the series is resolved.
I adored the first two books and I felt great trepidation before reading this. All too often I have been
disappointed by nonsensical twists or frustrating choices by the author which spoil the formerly loved
books with its taint. I held my breath with each chapter, as it got better and better wondering if
this one was the one where the shark would be jumped. It never happened. I am happy to say that this
is a fantastic conclusion to the series. Cornish wraps up the all of the loose ends, and while it
might have been more satisfying to have Rosamund involved in some of the resolutions of his various
nemeses, it probably works out better that he doesn't. He is not a character for whom vengeance
is a crucial thing and his fair mindedness is part of what makes him such a courageous hero.
In the end, everyone gets the ending they deserve, and while it may not be the ending I would have
preferred, it was the right ending and, for that reason, I praise Cornish's skill all the more.
John Enzinas reads frequently and passionately. In his spare time he plays with swords. |
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