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City of Wolves
Alexander Drake, Investigator for Hire, doesn’t like working for the Nobility, and doesn’t prefer to take jobs from strange men who accost him in alleyways. A combination of hired muscle and ready silver have a way of changing a man’s mind.
A lord has been killed, his body found covered in bite marks. Even worse, the late lord’s will is missing, and not everyone wants Drake to find it. Solving the case might plunge Drake into deeper danger.
City of Wolves is a steampunk noir from debut author Willow Palecek.
A lord has been killed, his body found covered in bite marks. Even worse, the late lord’s will is missing, and not everyone wants Drake to find it. Solving the case might plunge Drake into deeper danger.
City of Wolves is a steampunk noir from debut author Willow Palecek.
96 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 1, 2016
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 78 reviews
January 31, 2019
Alexander Drake is hired in a dark alley to solve a royal murder case. The coin is good enough so he agrees to help on his terms although he does not like to serve nobility. Away from coble stone streets of the city with pub's galore, he is taken by horse carriage to the residence of the deceased and begins his investigation. With his first clues collected, the interrogation of family does not show anything promising to come forth. However, there is something strange going on. The body of the murdered man was found below the window in the gardens with definite bite marks of some sort, yet now obvious struggle in the room or on the body is found.
This is such a classic good old fashioned "Investigator for Hire" plot packed into a short story with fantastical elements. The ambiance of the setting reflects London two centuries ago, but I cannot tell for sure.
I had this sleepless night and picked it up in a quick setting. You know when you can't sleep and things in your head keep going 180 mph...well this did the trick. It's quick and entertaining.
This is such a classic good old fashioned "Investigator for Hire" plot packed into a short story with fantastical elements. The ambiance of the setting reflects London two centuries ago, but I cannot tell for sure.
I had this sleepless night and picked it up in a quick setting. You know when you can't sleep and things in your head keep going 180 mph...well this did the trick. It's quick and entertaining.
August 5, 2016
3.5 of 5 stars at The BiblioSanctum https://bibliosanctum.com/2016/08/05/...
Out of Tor.com’s big lineup of releases for this summer, City of Wolves was one that immediately caught my eye and I’m glad I got a chance to read it. New author Willow Palecek has written an outstandingly well-developed and complete tale in a brisk 100 pages or so, while still managing to leave me salivating for more. I’ve always had a penchant for paranormal Victorian mysteries and detective stories; throw in werewolves too, and I am totally game.
The story’s protagonist is Alexander Drake, an investigator-for-hire in the bustling Victorian London-esque city of Lupenwald. A former soldier who fought on the losing side for a deposed king, Drake now prefers to stay under the radar, taking on modest opportunities while staying away from jobs offered by the nobility even though they often pay a lot better. He’s forced to reconsider that position, however, when he finds himself ambushed one evening by Lord Colin Abergreen’s hired goons. Cornering Drake in an alleyway and dangling a large purse as an incentive, the nobleman makes our detective an offer he can’t refuse.
Drake, now retained by the Abergreens, agrees to investigate the strange death of the family’s patriarch, Colin’s father. The older man was found dead in the gardens right beneath the shattered window of his chambers, his body completely naked. Old Lord Abergreen was also fond of keeping dogs, a large wolf-like breed that Lupenwald is famous for, and apparently the dogs were fond of him too, as indicated by the canine teeth marks on his corpse. Curiously, the man died without leaving a will, which is rather unusual for a nobleman. The easy thing to do would be to chalk this up to an inheritance dispute, but Drake thinks there’s something more to this case, especially when a werewolf follows him home afterwards and tries to kill him…
I’m impressed with all that Palecek was able to pack into this very slim volume, which features well-crafted characters and a fast-paced plot. Hardly any words are wasted here, as in, blink and you might miss something.
There are both positives and negatives to this, of course. City of Wolves feels very much like other paranormal mysteries of its type, except it accomplishes everything in one third the number of pages. The story is very streamlined, with hardly an ounce of fat on it. The mystery takes off at a fast clip and never falters, and I liked that there was never a dull moment. Still, just because the plot is so efficient, doesn’t mean things aren’t tough for our detective. There are plenty of suspects to consider, and just as many scenarios to ponder in the face of perplexing clues and unexpected twists. There are even a couple scenes of thrilling action and chase sequences to shake things up.
As for the downsides, the world-building feels a bit lean, admittedly. Drake zips from one place to another, and aside from a few cursory observations about his surroundings, we don’t get to see much of the city, and I feel like I’ve been robbed of the opportunity to experience Lupenwald in all its glory. I also failed to get a sense of atmosphere from the writing, which to me is such an important aspect of Victorian-era style fiction.
Furthermore, Drake identifies himself as a Loyalist, something that’s clearly significant to his character and goes back to the War of the Wolves, a fight for the throne between two would-be kings. The book doesn’t dwell much on the conflict, but what little background was revealed about it was very intriguing. If the story could have been a little longer, I would have liked to see more of Lupenwald’s sights and sounds and for the narrative to fill in more of the world’s history—especially since the war was so obviously a defining event for our main protagonist.
Needless to say, I would love for there to be a sequel. I wouldn’t hesitate to read another Alexander Drake novella, especially if future installments will be as enjoyable as this one. City of Wolves was a quick, entertaining read and what I saw definitely left me wanting more.
Out of Tor.com’s big lineup of releases for this summer, City of Wolves was one that immediately caught my eye and I’m glad I got a chance to read it. New author Willow Palecek has written an outstandingly well-developed and complete tale in a brisk 100 pages or so, while still managing to leave me salivating for more. I’ve always had a penchant for paranormal Victorian mysteries and detective stories; throw in werewolves too, and I am totally game.
The story’s protagonist is Alexander Drake, an investigator-for-hire in the bustling Victorian London-esque city of Lupenwald. A former soldier who fought on the losing side for a deposed king, Drake now prefers to stay under the radar, taking on modest opportunities while staying away from jobs offered by the nobility even though they often pay a lot better. He’s forced to reconsider that position, however, when he finds himself ambushed one evening by Lord Colin Abergreen’s hired goons. Cornering Drake in an alleyway and dangling a large purse as an incentive, the nobleman makes our detective an offer he can’t refuse.
Drake, now retained by the Abergreens, agrees to investigate the strange death of the family’s patriarch, Colin’s father. The older man was found dead in the gardens right beneath the shattered window of his chambers, his body completely naked. Old Lord Abergreen was also fond of keeping dogs, a large wolf-like breed that Lupenwald is famous for, and apparently the dogs were fond of him too, as indicated by the canine teeth marks on his corpse. Curiously, the man died without leaving a will, which is rather unusual for a nobleman. The easy thing to do would be to chalk this up to an inheritance dispute, but Drake thinks there’s something more to this case, especially when a werewolf follows him home afterwards and tries to kill him…
I’m impressed with all that Palecek was able to pack into this very slim volume, which features well-crafted characters and a fast-paced plot. Hardly any words are wasted here, as in, blink and you might miss something.
There are both positives and negatives to this, of course. City of Wolves feels very much like other paranormal mysteries of its type, except it accomplishes everything in one third the number of pages. The story is very streamlined, with hardly an ounce of fat on it. The mystery takes off at a fast clip and never falters, and I liked that there was never a dull moment. Still, just because the plot is so efficient, doesn’t mean things aren’t tough for our detective. There are plenty of suspects to consider, and just as many scenarios to ponder in the face of perplexing clues and unexpected twists. There are even a couple scenes of thrilling action and chase sequences to shake things up.
As for the downsides, the world-building feels a bit lean, admittedly. Drake zips from one place to another, and aside from a few cursory observations about his surroundings, we don’t get to see much of the city, and I feel like I’ve been robbed of the opportunity to experience Lupenwald in all its glory. I also failed to get a sense of atmosphere from the writing, which to me is such an important aspect of Victorian-era style fiction.
Furthermore, Drake identifies himself as a Loyalist, something that’s clearly significant to his character and goes back to the War of the Wolves, a fight for the throne between two would-be kings. The book doesn’t dwell much on the conflict, but what little background was revealed about it was very intriguing. If the story could have been a little longer, I would have liked to see more of Lupenwald’s sights and sounds and for the narrative to fill in more of the world’s history—especially since the war was so obviously a defining event for our main protagonist.
Needless to say, I would love for there to be a sequel. I wouldn’t hesitate to read another Alexander Drake novella, especially if future installments will be as enjoyable as this one. City of Wolves was a quick, entertaining read and what I saw definitely left me wanting more.
January 14, 2019
An okay and quick read. Nothing great but nothing bad either in this one. A mix of style in this investigation story inside a fantasy world, which I like but Raphaël Albert does in better in his Sylvo Sylvain series. Some twist in this story were easy to see coming, others a bit less. If the writer continue to work and develop her own voice she could be doing something really interesting, because the biggest problem here is probably the lack of experience.
February 25, 2017
A very okay piece of quick fiction, it felt like a beginners effort if I were being completely honest. I wasn't entirely hooked into any part of the story, but pushed to finish it because it was only 96 pages, so why not?
Whatever this was trying to be, whether steampunk, or noir, or some hybrid of gaslight paranormal slash urban fantasy, I'm not sure, but it didn't work. It lacked all the pop on the page that any of those categories require - in short, it was shallow. One might argue that it's intent was to be quick and perfunctory, it is a novella after all, but length is hardly an excuse a lifeless execution.
Here's my biggest gripe. The author forgot that magic has a price, whether that price is paid by performing it or by having knowledge of it, treating it flippantly destroys any wonder for the reader.
Along those lines, even the title is a little careless...the only punchline to the book is given away by those three words. How anti-climatic is that, to get through all 96 pages to find out the the city is full of wolves. You don't say?
The protagonist himself, Alexander Drake, starts as a drunken fellow who might have something interesting up his sleeve - he's private drunk detective who is seemingly broke and perhaps disreputable? A little cliche but perfectly ripe for a nice backstory. Unfortunately, all personal characterization is tossed aside in the name of pacing, or at least, that's what it felt like.
I picked this up on my Overdrive account and it was such a quick read that I can't fault anyone for trying it. As a short mystery, it does work even with its problems - a puzzle was solved. I would give this author another shot down the road if anything else was published. There was a spark here that could catch light if allowed some greater fuel...but in this case maybe the paper was a little damp or something.
Whatever this was trying to be, whether steampunk, or noir, or some hybrid of gaslight paranormal slash urban fantasy, I'm not sure, but it didn't work. It lacked all the pop on the page that any of those categories require - in short, it was shallow. One might argue that it's intent was to be quick and perfunctory, it is a novella after all, but length is hardly an excuse a lifeless execution.
Here's my biggest gripe. The author forgot that magic has a price, whether that price is paid by performing it or by having knowledge of it, treating it flippantly destroys any wonder for the reader.
Along those lines, even the title is a little careless...the only punchline to the book is given away by those three words. How anti-climatic is that, to get through all 96 pages to find out the the city is full of wolves. You don't say?
The protagonist himself, Alexander Drake, starts as a drunken fellow who might have something interesting up his sleeve - he's private drunk detective who is seemingly broke and perhaps disreputable? A little cliche but perfectly ripe for a nice backstory. Unfortunately, all personal characterization is tossed aside in the name of pacing, or at least, that's what it felt like.
I picked this up on my Overdrive account and it was such a quick read that I can't fault anyone for trying it. As a short mystery, it does work even with its problems - a puzzle was solved. I would give this author another shot down the road if anything else was published. There was a spark here that could catch light if allowed some greater fuel...but in this case maybe the paper was a little damp or something.
February 27, 2018
Originally reviewed at Bookwraiths.
City of Wolves is a gas lamp noir fantasy, which was serviceable as a light, quick read, but isn’t much else.
The setting for this novella is an alternate nineteenth century England. At least, it appears to be England, though no one ever says that explicitly. Gas lamps, lords, ladies, vicars, cathedrals, and other Victorian-esque things seem to give it away however.
The action begins when a noble’s dead, naked body is found. The corpse is covered with unexplained bites and laceration. While the Ministry investigator believes he has a totally reasonable and scientific explanation for the chaps’ death, the noble’s family is not quite so sure, which is why they bring in investigator for hire Alexander Drake.
Now, Detective Drake is a fairly standard investigator sort: lives by his own moral standards, is cool, is collected, is tough, and can’t be shaken off the trail once he has the proverbial bit between his teeth. Nothing unusual about him. Very familiar, comfortable sort of fellow, who will be our guide through this complicated investigation.
But that is where City of Wolves begins to stumble badly: the mystery isn’t very mysterious or complicated. Obviously, the title to this story has wolves in the name, a dead body is naked and covered in animal bites, and there are other flashing Easter eggs scattered about which makes it fairly obvious from the very beginning that werewolves are involved. Indeed, throughout the narrative, there really isn’t many surprises. Sure, we have a bit of duplicity here or there, but nothing an experienced reader doesn’t see coming from a mile away. So the “mystery” quickly becomes a non-factor.
This left it up to Alexander Drake to carry the story, but, unfortunately, he just isn’t very interesting. Obviously, the author did not have many pages to flesh him out in detail, introduce any complex issues or unexpected quirks, but it is very disappointing that Drake is the same old detective we have read about or watched in every private eye story ever written – except he is less interesting than most.
As for the other characters, they are cardboard cutouts mostly. Nothing to set them about from the others. A few merely make appearances out of convenience to move the narrative along like a “crime lord” and an evil priest. Both of whom had no real role in the ongoing story.
But the action is great, right? There is a good bit of it: chase scenes and such, but it really didn’t liven things up enough to overcome the other issues I personally had with the narrative.
All in all, City of Wolves is an okay novella. It isn’t terrible. It isn’t great. It doesn’t bore. But it doesn’t excite either. Willow Palecek has written a light, quick read, which could get better in sequels as the world and characters are developed and grow more complex. Whether I pick up the next novella isn’t determined yet. I’m not saying I won’t read it. Rather, I’m unsure, because I only have a finite amount of reading time and far too many stories to read, and I do not know if I wish to spend that time on Alexander Drake’s further adventures.
I received this book from the publisher in exchange for a fair and honest review. I’d like to thank them for allowing me to receive this review copy and inform everyone that the review you have read is my opinion alone.
City of Wolves is a gas lamp noir fantasy, which was serviceable as a light, quick read, but isn’t much else.
The setting for this novella is an alternate nineteenth century England. At least, it appears to be England, though no one ever says that explicitly. Gas lamps, lords, ladies, vicars, cathedrals, and other Victorian-esque things seem to give it away however.
The action begins when a noble’s dead, naked body is found. The corpse is covered with unexplained bites and laceration. While the Ministry investigator believes he has a totally reasonable and scientific explanation for the chaps’ death, the noble’s family is not quite so sure, which is why they bring in investigator for hire Alexander Drake.
Now, Detective Drake is a fairly standard investigator sort: lives by his own moral standards, is cool, is collected, is tough, and can’t be shaken off the trail once he has the proverbial bit between his teeth. Nothing unusual about him. Very familiar, comfortable sort of fellow, who will be our guide through this complicated investigation.
But that is where City of Wolves begins to stumble badly: the mystery isn’t very mysterious or complicated. Obviously, the title to this story has wolves in the name, a dead body is naked and covered in animal bites, and there are other flashing Easter eggs scattered about which makes it fairly obvious from the very beginning that werewolves are involved. Indeed, throughout the narrative, there really isn’t many surprises. Sure, we have a bit of duplicity here or there, but nothing an experienced reader doesn’t see coming from a mile away. So the “mystery” quickly becomes a non-factor.
This left it up to Alexander Drake to carry the story, but, unfortunately, he just isn’t very interesting. Obviously, the author did not have many pages to flesh him out in detail, introduce any complex issues or unexpected quirks, but it is very disappointing that Drake is the same old detective we have read about or watched in every private eye story ever written – except he is less interesting than most.
As for the other characters, they are cardboard cutouts mostly. Nothing to set them about from the others. A few merely make appearances out of convenience to move the narrative along like a “crime lord” and an evil priest. Both of whom had no real role in the ongoing story.
But the action is great, right? There is a good bit of it: chase scenes and such, but it really didn’t liven things up enough to overcome the other issues I personally had with the narrative.
All in all, City of Wolves is an okay novella. It isn’t terrible. It isn’t great. It doesn’t bore. But it doesn’t excite either. Willow Palecek has written a light, quick read, which could get better in sequels as the world and characters are developed and grow more complex. Whether I pick up the next novella isn’t determined yet. I’m not saying I won’t read it. Rather, I’m unsure, because I only have a finite amount of reading time and far too many stories to read, and I do not know if I wish to spend that time on Alexander Drake’s further adventures.
I received this book from the publisher in exchange for a fair and honest review. I’d like to thank them for allowing me to receive this review copy and inform everyone that the review you have read is my opinion alone.
February 10, 2017
City of Wolves makes a good, quick steampunk/mystery read, but it doesn’t have much depth. It’s competently enough written, but the fact that it zooms along hinders it somewhat from feeling like a fully developed world. I was actually intrigued by the background of the Loyalists and the War of the Wolves, but there was very little solid happening there. It felt like a potential setting for more, with this just being a taster.
It’s enjoyable, and I’d read more set in the same world, but it fails to satisfy, I think. More substance is needed, really — flesh on the bones, so to speak. Also, the revelation at the end… I saw it coming.
Originally posted here.
It’s enjoyable, and I’d read more set in the same world, but it fails to satisfy, I think. More substance is needed, really — flesh on the bones, so to speak. Also, the revelation at the end… I saw it coming.
Originally posted here.
September 30, 2016
City of Wolves was a lot of things and all those things were packed into a swift-moving novella. While I enjoyed this one as, indeed, I did, I also felt that if this was not serving as a prequel- introductory story to something beyond then it fell short. Because I want to give the benefit of the doubt, I'm going to be generous as well as hopeful that there is a whole lot more coming from this fascinating and exciting alternate historical fantasy suspense staring the most impressive, witty, and roguish investigator for the common people, Alexander Drake.
As, I noted, this is an alternate history. It is based on perhaps a smash-up of Scottish history and English history with the paranormal elements of magic and more tossed in for good measure. Alexander Drake fought for the loyalist cause and they lost. Now he is scraping a living as an investigator. He could work for the government as one of their detectives just as he could take cases involving the nobility which would both pay vastly more than the pittance he earns on uninteresting cases, but he's had bad experiences with both and wants to just live his life without the trouble that comes from tangling with his supposed betters.
But, unfortunately, if he wants room and board and to stay out of debtor's prison, he must take this latest case involving the death of an aristocrat and a missing will. As soon as he takes the case, someone would rather him not find out the truth. Drake has a time of it staying one step ahead of the government investigator and also the shadowy nemesis trying to stop him for good.
Alright, this was a novella so it clipped along pretty well. I was immediately taken with the main character, Alexander Drake. He's the underdog who is cynical and somewhat disillusioned, but he has a code of morality and he is loyal. He might take the short cut to get there, but he is honorable in his own way.
I enjoyed the introduction to Alexander's world. It is the British empire essentially- there is a monarchy, a government, a class system, and regional types that are familiar, but there is also the known use of magic, a little gadgetry, and another surprise element that I'll not mention by name so as not to spoil things.
The mystery was moderately challenging though I figured out quite a bit well before the end. That said, there were a few surprises and it was great following along with Alexander as he tracked down the trail of clues and did his 'voila' at the end. But that last jangling line of reveal at the end is what has me believing that there is oh so much more to come. I did have one niggle about the mystery in that I couldn't remember the story making clear why the victim chose to do what he did. Again, I wonder if that is part of what might come after this one. I knew who killed the victim and who was after Drake, but in the victim's case, the 'why' was murky.
So, whether this was the start of something more or it's own shorter story, I still had a pretty good time with an engaging main character, worldbuilding, and suspense plot. I would recommend it for those who like a blend of history, mystery, urban fantasy, and steampunk.
I received this book from Net Galley in exchange of an honest review.
As, I noted, this is an alternate history. It is based on perhaps a smash-up of Scottish history and English history with the paranormal elements of magic and more tossed in for good measure. Alexander Drake fought for the loyalist cause and they lost. Now he is scraping a living as an investigator. He could work for the government as one of their detectives just as he could take cases involving the nobility which would both pay vastly more than the pittance he earns on uninteresting cases, but he's had bad experiences with both and wants to just live his life without the trouble that comes from tangling with his supposed betters.
But, unfortunately, if he wants room and board and to stay out of debtor's prison, he must take this latest case involving the death of an aristocrat and a missing will. As soon as he takes the case, someone would rather him not find out the truth. Drake has a time of it staying one step ahead of the government investigator and also the shadowy nemesis trying to stop him for good.
Alright, this was a novella so it clipped along pretty well. I was immediately taken with the main character, Alexander Drake. He's the underdog who is cynical and somewhat disillusioned, but he has a code of morality and he is loyal. He might take the short cut to get there, but he is honorable in his own way.
I enjoyed the introduction to Alexander's world. It is the British empire essentially- there is a monarchy, a government, a class system, and regional types that are familiar, but there is also the known use of magic, a little gadgetry, and another surprise element that I'll not mention by name so as not to spoil things.
The mystery was moderately challenging though I figured out quite a bit well before the end. That said, there were a few surprises and it was great following along with Alexander as he tracked down the trail of clues and did his 'voila' at the end. But that last jangling line of reveal at the end is what has me believing that there is oh so much more to come. I did have one niggle about the mystery in that I couldn't remember the story making clear why the victim chose to do what he did. Again, I wonder if that is part of what might come after this one. I knew who killed the victim and who was after Drake, but in the victim's case, the 'why' was murky.
So, whether this was the start of something more or it's own shorter story, I still had a pretty good time with an engaging main character, worldbuilding, and suspense plot. I would recommend it for those who like a blend of history, mystery, urban fantasy, and steampunk.
I received this book from Net Galley in exchange of an honest review.
September 11, 2016
CITY OF WOLVES
Written by Willow Palecek
2016; 96 Pages
Tor
Genre: fantasy, fiction, novella, steampunk
(I received an ARC from the NETGALLEY in exchange for an honest review.)
★★1/2
"Alexander Drake, Investigator for Hire, doesn’t like working for the Nobility, and doesn’t prefer to take jobs from strange men who accost him in alleyways. A combination of hired muscle and ready silver have a way of changing a man’s mind. A lord has been killed, his body found covered in bite marks. Even worse, the late lord’s will is missing, and not everyone wants Drake to find it. Solving the case might plunge Drake into deeper danger." (From Publisher)
I had to think about the rating for awhile. While I liked the synopsis and characters, I also felt that a lot was not fleshed out. I kind of hope this is prequel to a future series. If this was a prequel I would say this is three-star book, but as a standalone it is not really worth the time to even read this novella.
k (My Novelesque Life)
Written by Willow Palecek
2016; 96 Pages
Tor
Genre: fantasy, fiction, novella, steampunk
(I received an ARC from the NETGALLEY in exchange for an honest review.)
★★1/2
"Alexander Drake, Investigator for Hire, doesn’t like working for the Nobility, and doesn’t prefer to take jobs from strange men who accost him in alleyways. A combination of hired muscle and ready silver have a way of changing a man’s mind. A lord has been killed, his body found covered in bite marks. Even worse, the late lord’s will is missing, and not everyone wants Drake to find it. Solving the case might plunge Drake into deeper danger." (From Publisher)
I had to think about the rating for awhile. While I liked the synopsis and characters, I also felt that a lot was not fleshed out. I kind of hope this is prequel to a future series. If this was a prequel I would say this is three-star book, but as a standalone it is not really worth the time to even read this novella.
k (My Novelesque Life)
August 12, 2016
City of Wolves' down-at-heel investigator and first-person narrator, Alexander Drake, doesn't distinguish himself much beyond the many noir and UF protagonists he is reminiscent of. I'd like to have seen a bit more of his background and what makes him tick, aside from his having been on the losing end of the recent civil war.
This short novella's world is intriguing, though, and it's a good match for the mishmash of country-estate mystery and gaslit UF that forms its major plot. It's sketched in just enough detail to make me wonder about the religion of Light and its attitudes toward magic that obviously exists, about the war and the history leading up to it, and about Lupenwald and its neighborhoods (and why it has a German-sounding name).
While not a filling meal on its own, City of Wolves does well as an appetizer or snack, and I certainly wouldn't mind reading another story in this setting.
This short novella's world is intriguing, though, and it's a good match for the mishmash of country-estate mystery and gaslit UF that forms its major plot. It's sketched in just enough detail to make me wonder about the religion of Light and its attitudes toward magic that obviously exists, about the war and the history leading up to it, and about Lupenwald and its neighborhoods (and why it has a German-sounding name).
While not a filling meal on its own, City of Wolves does well as an appetizer or snack, and I certainly wouldn't mind reading another story in this setting.
November 29, 2021
This was...okay?? It felt like a one shot rp game, almost. Probably be fun to play but not much emotional weight, characters with fun names but not a lot of personality, and while I'm sure the author knows the setting really well, there just wasn't enough of it in the story for me to get invested that way either.
July 25, 2016
Lupenwald, a city resembling 18th century Victorian London is the setting for the murder of Lord Abergreen, The nobleman is found naked in the gardens of his estate. He has apparently fallen from the window of his study and his body is covered in canine-like bite wounds. Enter Alexander Drake. Drake has been hired by Colin Abergreen, his son, to determine the cause of death. Since there is no evidence of a will, by tradition, the majority of the inheritance will pass to Corth Abergreen, the eldest son. Why is there no will? Why is Lord Abergreen found naked?
Drake, an investigator for hire, normally does not work on cases involving the nobility. The offer made for consulting on this case is approximately the equivalent of one year's salary. How can he refuse? Drake's efforts to solve the crime are thwarted by Loxley-Birmingham, an agent of the Crown. Attempts, some supernatural, are made on Drake's life. He must methodically carry on and outsmart the forces trying to squelch the truth.
Willow Palecek has written an excellent novella with elements of Victorian crime, suspense and the supernatural. The characters are well developed. Drake's character is especially well fleshed out. I would love to see Alexander Drake solve other Victorian crimes. Hoping for a sequel!
Thank you Macmillan-Tor/Forge and Net Galley for the opportunity to read and review City of Wolves.
Drake, an investigator for hire, normally does not work on cases involving the nobility. The offer made for consulting on this case is approximately the equivalent of one year's salary. How can he refuse? Drake's efforts to solve the crime are thwarted by Loxley-Birmingham, an agent of the Crown. Attempts, some supernatural, are made on Drake's life. He must methodically carry on and outsmart the forces trying to squelch the truth.
Willow Palecek has written an excellent novella with elements of Victorian crime, suspense and the supernatural. The characters are well developed. Drake's character is especially well fleshed out. I would love to see Alexander Drake solve other Victorian crimes. Hoping for a sequel!
Thank you Macmillan-Tor/Forge and Net Galley for the opportunity to read and review City of Wolves.
July 28, 2016
Mon avis en Françaisv
My English review
I did not know about the book or the author but it’s true that I was curious about the story after such a synopsis. How not to be intrigued? A detective, a different time from ours, a good mystery? I’m always ready for that!
We therefore discover Alexander Drake a detective who is hired in a strangely enough way but also against an important salary. That’s why our hero does not hesitate to accept the survey offered. Indeed, a Noble asks him to find the murderer of his father, as well as his will that seems to have disappeared. But while Drake delves into the case, he realizes very quickly that many dangers are looming and that many would rather see him away (which will complement his determination even more).
This is a novella, so you can imagine that this is a story that we read very quickly but it was a pleasure to discover the world of the author and his characters and I hope we will have the chance to see everyone again. I find that despite the few pages, the author has managed to achieve a good plot and I have not felt a specific lack, which is always a good point. It was certainly a good find!
My English review
I did not know about the book or the author but it’s true that I was curious about the story after such a synopsis. How not to be intrigued? A detective, a different time from ours, a good mystery? I’m always ready for that!
We therefore discover Alexander Drake a detective who is hired in a strangely enough way but also against an important salary. That’s why our hero does not hesitate to accept the survey offered. Indeed, a Noble asks him to find the murderer of his father, as well as his will that seems to have disappeared. But while Drake delves into the case, he realizes very quickly that many dangers are looming and that many would rather see him away (which will complement his determination even more).
This is a novella, so you can imagine that this is a story that we read very quickly but it was a pleasure to discover the world of the author and his characters and I hope we will have the chance to see everyone again. I find that despite the few pages, the author has managed to achieve a good plot and I have not felt a specific lack, which is always a good point. It was certainly a good find!
October 7, 2016
Review courtesy of All Things Urban Fantasy.
CITY OF WOLVES is an enjoyable novella. I loved the main character, the sense of humor, and the world building, but I felt there were some aspects that were unnecessary and distracting, something which is all the more obvious in a novella length piece, where every word counts.
CITY OF WOLVES is described by Tor.com as "gaslamp, fantasy noir" and it definitely fits those genres.The world that Alexander Drake inhabits in CITY OF WOLVES comes off as rather dark and dingy. Drake is an excellent narrator, and the whole thing reads a bit as a hardboiled detective novel would. Except with werewolves!
There was one major scene that was a bit out of place for me though. It introduced a character who didn't actually appear to move the plot along, and instead I was left a bit confused as to why the scene was included. Especially because to me, the ending felt a bit rushed.
CITY OF WOLVES introduced me to a new, interesting world, and Alexander Drake is definitely a character I would be interested in reading more about. However, CITY OF WOLVES makes an excellent stand alone novella, and is a nice, short, entertaining read.
Sexual content: N/A
CITY OF WOLVES is an enjoyable novella. I loved the main character, the sense of humor, and the world building, but I felt there were some aspects that were unnecessary and distracting, something which is all the more obvious in a novella length piece, where every word counts.
CITY OF WOLVES is described by Tor.com as "gaslamp, fantasy noir" and it definitely fits those genres.The world that Alexander Drake inhabits in CITY OF WOLVES comes off as rather dark and dingy. Drake is an excellent narrator, and the whole thing reads a bit as a hardboiled detective novel would. Except with werewolves!
There was one major scene that was a bit out of place for me though. It introduced a character who didn't actually appear to move the plot along, and instead I was left a bit confused as to why the scene was included. Especially because to me, the ending felt a bit rushed.
CITY OF WOLVES introduced me to a new, interesting world, and Alexander Drake is definitely a character I would be interested in reading more about. However, CITY OF WOLVES makes an excellent stand alone novella, and is a nice, short, entertaining read.
Sexual content: N/A
September 14, 2016
3.5/5.0
My review in English: http://sentidodelamaravilla.blogspot....
Mi reseña en español: http://sentidodelamaravilla.blogspot....
My review in English: http://sentidodelamaravilla.blogspot....
Mi reseña en español: http://sentidodelamaravilla.blogspot....
April 3, 2022
This was a very cozy book. The strange murder, large group of suspects, and witty banter made it feel like an episode Midsomer Murders, albeit with more magic and werewolves involved.
With only just over a hundred pages and a regular font size, there is sadly not enough time to get to know the characters and world, but just enough to make you want more. It feels like the pilot episode of a series dragging you from character to character as if it’s setting up further stories. I have no idea if Palecek has plans for sequels, but I really hope so.
With only just over a hundred pages and a regular font size, there is sadly not enough time to get to know the characters and world, but just enough to make you want more. It feels like the pilot episode of a series dragging you from character to character as if it’s setting up further stories. I have no idea if Palecek has plans for sequels, but I really hope so.
August 8, 2016
https://koeur.wordpress.com/2016/08/0...
Publisher: Tor
Publishing Date: July 2016
ISBN: 9780765387356
Genre: Fantasy
Rating: 2.6/5
Publishers Description: Alexander Drake, Investigator for Hire, doesn’t like working for the Nobility, and doesn’t prefer to take jobs from strange men who accost him in alleyways. A combination of hired muscle and ready silver have a way of changing a man’s mind.
Review: This was a short novella mystery set in the Victorian era?? The reviews are all over the place on this. Some thought it lacked depth and the mystery was too obvious. Others thought the supporting cast were cardboard cutouts. Others thought it was a cunning mystery set in a Gaslight world of wonder. Mmmmkay.
Me? I am in the middle somewhere, and not because it’s politically convenient. I loved Drake as a main character. Smart, tough, ornery, funny, obstinate and snerky are just a few of the descriptors for this rascal. Even the supporting caste were good and would have grown to maturity had they had enough story line to work with. The sad fact is that novella’s limit what the author can do with character development and are usually left with trending more towards the movement side in order to compact the effect. Yeah, the mystery was a non-starter but the werewolf element added to the impact. All in all a fun short, well written novella that deserves full length world building and in-depth character development.
P.S. To the reviewer Ann Benjamin who gave this novella two stars and said “..Also why were there almost no female characters?”. Well Ann, there either is, or is not female characters. Are you trying to say that there should have been more female characters? In the parlance of Chuck Borris (an old guitar player), “Go milk your own cow”.
Publisher: Tor
Publishing Date: July 2016
ISBN: 9780765387356
Genre: Fantasy
Rating: 2.6/5
Publishers Description: Alexander Drake, Investigator for Hire, doesn’t like working for the Nobility, and doesn’t prefer to take jobs from strange men who accost him in alleyways. A combination of hired muscle and ready silver have a way of changing a man’s mind.
Review: This was a short novella mystery set in the Victorian era?? The reviews are all over the place on this. Some thought it lacked depth and the mystery was too obvious. Others thought the supporting cast were cardboard cutouts. Others thought it was a cunning mystery set in a Gaslight world of wonder. Mmmmkay.
Me? I am in the middle somewhere, and not because it’s politically convenient. I loved Drake as a main character. Smart, tough, ornery, funny, obstinate and snerky are just a few of the descriptors for this rascal. Even the supporting caste were good and would have grown to maturity had they had enough story line to work with. The sad fact is that novella’s limit what the author can do with character development and are usually left with trending more towards the movement side in order to compact the effect. Yeah, the mystery was a non-starter but the werewolf element added to the impact. All in all a fun short, well written novella that deserves full length world building and in-depth character development.
P.S. To the reviewer Ann Benjamin who gave this novella two stars and said “..Also why were there almost no female characters?”. Well Ann, there either is, or is not female characters. Are you trying to say that there should have been more female characters? In the parlance of Chuck Borris (an old guitar player), “Go milk your own cow”.
March 6, 2018
It might've been two, three days ago, no more, that I told a customer at the bookstore where I work, that, in my opinion, a novella published by Tor was as much a stamp of quality as a book being picked up by either HBO or, maybe even more so - I say, and think of the wonderful adaption of
Jonathan Strange & Mr Norrell
- BBC.
Maybe that's also why I feel almost betrayed (that is a strong word, I know) by City of Wolves...
Now, that sounds interesting. It might've been done a few time already, but what's to say that a story already told can't be worth yet another read as long as it is done well.
As long as it is done well.
It actually isn't so much a lack of good storytelling that's the cause for my low rating; it's the fact that there is so much potential storytelling that's been shrunk to fit the number of pages allowed a novella! There's no depth to the characters or the story itself, the events feel rushed and the conclusion a bit like a helicopter parent solving the puzzle for you rather than offer you the tools you need to do it yourself.
Maybe that's also why I feel almost betrayed (that is a strong word, I know) by City of Wolves...
Alexander Drake, Investigator for Hire, doesn’t like working for the Nobility, and doesn’t prefer to take jobs from strange men who accost him in alleyways. A combination of hired muscle and ready silver have a way of changing a man’s mind. A lord has been killed, his body found covered in bite marks. Even worse, the late lord’s will is missing, and not everyone wants Drake to find it. Solving the case might plunge Drake into deeper danger.
Now, that sounds interesting. It might've been done a few time already, but what's to say that a story already told can't be worth yet another read as long as it is done well.
As long as it is done well.
It actually isn't so much a lack of good storytelling that's the cause for my low rating; it's the fact that there is so much potential storytelling that's been shrunk to fit the number of pages allowed a novella! There's no depth to the characters or the story itself, the events feel rushed and the conclusion a bit like a helicopter parent solving the puzzle for you rather than offer you the tools you need to do it yourself.
July 24, 2016
I wanted to like City of Wolves, but it didn’t quite work for me.
I’m not going to rehash the plot, because the description given is accurate. Gaslamp fantasy noir pretty much sums up the mood of the story, too.
The problem I had while I was reading this novella is that I didn’t really feel connected to the main character, Alexander Drake. Granted, this is a novella, and the author doesn’t have a lot of room within the story for either world building or character development. I’ve read other novellas where I did get more invested in the characters, though, so I don’t think the length of the story is entirely the issue here. I think there was just too much happening (including a meeting with a crime lord who played no real role in the plot), and the characterization suffered.
Because I didn’t care all that much about Alexander, I had a harder time immersing myself in the action. There is a fair amount of that, including one lengthy chase scene involving a carriage that wouldn’t be out of place in an action movie. (I’m pretty sure the action described couldn’t actually happen, though. This may be a fantasy, but the laws of physics should probably still apply.)
It seemed like the author was setting up the character and the world in this novella, and there are likely to be more stories from her featuring both. I’ll give them a try, to see if Alexander grows on me as a character, but this novella was just an OK read for me.
An ARC of this novel was provided by the publisher through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
I’m not going to rehash the plot, because the description given is accurate. Gaslamp fantasy noir pretty much sums up the mood of the story, too.
The problem I had while I was reading this novella is that I didn’t really feel connected to the main character, Alexander Drake. Granted, this is a novella, and the author doesn’t have a lot of room within the story for either world building or character development. I’ve read other novellas where I did get more invested in the characters, though, so I don’t think the length of the story is entirely the issue here. I think there was just too much happening (including a meeting with a crime lord who played no real role in the plot), and the characterization suffered.
Because I didn’t care all that much about Alexander, I had a harder time immersing myself in the action. There is a fair amount of that, including one lengthy chase scene involving a carriage that wouldn’t be out of place in an action movie. (I’m pretty sure the action described couldn’t actually happen, though. This may be a fantasy, but the laws of physics should probably still apply.)
It seemed like the author was setting up the character and the world in this novella, and there are likely to be more stories from her featuring both. I’ll give them a try, to see if Alexander grows on me as a character, but this novella was just an OK read for me.
An ARC of this novel was provided by the publisher through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
November 4, 2016
**Review copy provided through Netgalley for an honest review.**
Hmmm. An interesting short and I believe a fun introduction to what could be a fantastic new series. I did feel that some of the mythology was sketchy. It didn't fully develop the world in a timely fashion. Like letting readers know how much of the paranormal is known and so on. Not to mention what kinds of paranormal is out there.
The short didn't fully sell me on the lead or what I would assume is the cast of characters that would occupy the series. (If it was indeed made into a series.) That's the problem with shorts. Most of the time it's just not enough to establish a story properly. They tend to be good for snippets for series that are already being devoured and the mytho established.
However, I loved the writing style and with this I would be very interested if it turned out to be a series. The world, once established, was fun and I think plenty of room for potential. Not to mention that I'm interested enough about the lead to go forth and see a more developed version of him. I had a fun time and it was perfect for a quick read.
Content Warning: Some sexual humor and violent deaths. Nothing truly shocking or surprising.
3/5- Adored it, just a few minor details held it back.
Originally reviewed at Book Whispers.
Hmmm. An interesting short and I believe a fun introduction to what could be a fantastic new series. I did feel that some of the mythology was sketchy. It didn't fully develop the world in a timely fashion. Like letting readers know how much of the paranormal is known and so on. Not to mention what kinds of paranormal is out there.
The short didn't fully sell me on the lead or what I would assume is the cast of characters that would occupy the series. (If it was indeed made into a series.) That's the problem with shorts. Most of the time it's just not enough to establish a story properly. They tend to be good for snippets for series that are already being devoured and the mytho established.
However, I loved the writing style and with this I would be very interested if it turned out to be a series. The world, once established, was fun and I think plenty of room for potential. Not to mention that I'm interested enough about the lead to go forth and see a more developed version of him. I had a fun time and it was perfect for a quick read.
Content Warning: Some sexual humor and violent deaths. Nothing truly shocking or surprising.
3/5- Adored it, just a few minor details held it back.
Originally reviewed at Book Whispers.
February 10, 2017
'City of Wolves' by Willow Palecek is a pretty decent fantasy novella. The lead is a decent detective, and one I wouldn't mind reading more of.
Alexander Drake is an investigator for hire in a pre-industrial world. He doesn't like to work for the rich, but this is exactly what he is called to do. When the head of a family dies suddenly and violently, he is called in to find out what happened, and, more importantly, to find the missing will. That the man was found naked and wounded outside his bedroom window is a very curious thing. There are werewolves about and Alexander finds himself threatened, but werewolves aren't the only things he has to fear.
At a little under 100 pages, it's a quick enough read. There are plenty of the usual tropes along with a likable enough lead character. I don't know if it's planned for this to be an ongoing series, but this wasn't a bad first outing.
I received a review copy of this ebook from Macmillan-Tor/Forge and NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. Thank you for allowing me to review this ebook.
Alexander Drake is an investigator for hire in a pre-industrial world. He doesn't like to work for the rich, but this is exactly what he is called to do. When the head of a family dies suddenly and violently, he is called in to find out what happened, and, more importantly, to find the missing will. That the man was found naked and wounded outside his bedroom window is a very curious thing. There are werewolves about and Alexander finds himself threatened, but werewolves aren't the only things he has to fear.
At a little under 100 pages, it's a quick enough read. There are plenty of the usual tropes along with a likable enough lead character. I don't know if it's planned for this to be an ongoing series, but this wasn't a bad first outing.
I received a review copy of this ebook from Macmillan-Tor/Forge and NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. Thank you for allowing me to review this ebook.
November 7, 2018
City of Wolves is fast paced tale that takes place in a world that shares many characteristics of our own. The back cover blurb describes it as "gaslamp fantasy noir" and that is a pretty good description. In this world science works-we have guns, for instance, and the technology appears to be roughly that of the early eighteen hundreds. However magic also works and is very much an essential and accepted part of life. The action takes place in the country of Lupenwald-an aristo has been murdered, and our protagonist Alexander Drake is hired to investigate. Good fun and a nice set up fir further adventures.
January 7, 2019
Stars: 2.5/5
February 22, 2017
***I received an ARC in return for a fair and honest review***
Alexander Drake is a down on his luck private detective. Drunk and in need of a job, he is hired/forced into accepting a nobleman’s proposition to find the murderer of his father. Although Drake has sworn off working for the nobility (too much trouble despite the money), he’s accepts an offer he really couldn’t refuse anyway. And so we begin on a fast paced journey through the fictional city of Lupenwald--complete with werewolves, shady detectives, and mafia like religious figures.
City of Wolves ticks off all of the typical mystery boxes--private detective down on his luck, wealthy client with family secrets, police angry over amateur interference, and even a Poirot like scene in which everyone gathers in the drawing room and the mystery is solved. However, despite having the pieces to a good mystery romp (I mean who doesn’t like a good gaslamp noir werewolf mystery), the puzzle never quite came together for me. I found the story confusing and shallow.
I understand with only 100 or so pages to play with, there is not enough time to write an epic. The pacing was too quick, too overcrowded. Okay, we’re at a manor house. Oh wait, now we’re doing an autopsy with some detective who seems like he has some connection to Drake in the past, but not really sure. There’s some sort of allusion to a war in the past. Oh and now we’re off again to the city to see a war veteran. Oh wait, some vicar, who is apparently a mob boss shows up. Is Drake working for him now? Is he some sort of future character. Huh? I think the author was trying to show a need for urgency on Drake’s part, but all of his movement back and forth seemed forced and not as dramatic as I believe the author intended. The solution to the mystery was anti-climatic. The big reveal didn’t really feel all that important or big by the end.
City of Wolves has good bones. There are the bones of an interesting world and interesting characters if they are given the chance and page space to come through and truly join the narrative. Drake seems like he will be snarky, hardboiled investigator perfect for gaslamp noir. At the moment, I don’t see myself actively seeking out a second installment, but perhaps that will change with time. ⅖ stars.
Alexander Drake is a down on his luck private detective. Drunk and in need of a job, he is hired/forced into accepting a nobleman’s proposition to find the murderer of his father. Although Drake has sworn off working for the nobility (too much trouble despite the money), he’s accepts an offer he really couldn’t refuse anyway. And so we begin on a fast paced journey through the fictional city of Lupenwald--complete with werewolves, shady detectives, and mafia like religious figures.
City of Wolves ticks off all of the typical mystery boxes--private detective down on his luck, wealthy client with family secrets, police angry over amateur interference, and even a Poirot like scene in which everyone gathers in the drawing room and the mystery is solved. However, despite having the pieces to a good mystery romp (I mean who doesn’t like a good gaslamp noir werewolf mystery), the puzzle never quite came together for me. I found the story confusing and shallow.
I understand with only 100 or so pages to play with, there is not enough time to write an epic. The pacing was too quick, too overcrowded. Okay, we’re at a manor house. Oh wait, now we’re doing an autopsy with some detective who seems like he has some connection to Drake in the past, but not really sure. There’s some sort of allusion to a war in the past. Oh and now we’re off again to the city to see a war veteran. Oh wait, some vicar, who is apparently a mob boss shows up. Is Drake working for him now? Is he some sort of future character. Huh? I think the author was trying to show a need for urgency on Drake’s part, but all of his movement back and forth seemed forced and not as dramatic as I believe the author intended. The solution to the mystery was anti-climatic. The big reveal didn’t really feel all that important or big by the end.
City of Wolves has good bones. There are the bones of an interesting world and interesting characters if they are given the chance and page space to come through and truly join the narrative. Drake seems like he will be snarky, hardboiled investigator perfect for gaslamp noir. At the moment, I don’t see myself actively seeking out a second installment, but perhaps that will change with time. ⅖ stars.
June 1, 2016
I won this novella in a goodreads drawing.
A fun little tale about a private investigator active in an alternative Britain, circa 1700. Pre-industrial revolution, so not really steam punk, more wind up key punk, I guess.
A nobleman is murdered, and the PI investigates, and finds more secrets than he cares to learn.
Almost more of a gaming scenario than a real novel, but still entertaining.
A fun little tale about a private investigator active in an alternative Britain, circa 1700. Pre-industrial revolution, so not really steam punk, more wind up key punk, I guess.
A nobleman is murdered, and the PI investigates, and finds more secrets than he cares to learn.
Almost more of a gaming scenario than a real novel, but still entertaining.
July 24, 2016
While listed as 'steampunk' I did not find many elements of the genre in this novella. Shortly after starting, I found myself skimming through the (too short) chapters as I had no real connection to the protagonist. Also, why were there almost no female characters?
I received this book from NetGalley for an honest opinion.
I received this book from NetGalley for an honest opinion.
May 31, 2017
Cool, short murder-mystery-fantasy novella that I picked up on a whim at the library because the cover was cool.
Interesting story, interesting setting, interesting characters.
Looking forward to see if this author comes out with anything else, especially with more of Alexander Drake, Investigator for Hire.
Interesting story, interesting setting, interesting characters.
Looking forward to see if this author comes out with anything else, especially with more of Alexander Drake, Investigator for Hire.
July 21, 2016
Sorry. this just didn't work for me. It was the essence of a good story, but it was to short to do the plot or the characters justice.
Rezension: http://meineliteratour.blogspot.de/20...
Rezension: http://meineliteratour.blogspot.de/20...
August 21, 2020
I read this because it showed up on a few lists of Steampunk books, even though the back cover copy refers to it as "gaslamp fantasy." It is not Steampunk; it is indeed a gaslamp fantasy, and it reads like a relatively polished rough draft. I didn't notice any actual typos, but the plotting is awkward and clunky with contrived plot complications, anachronisms, and a truly questionable dénouement.
Alexander Drake is our first-person protagonist. He has been hired by a younger son of a noble to investigate the death of the father.
Pg. 14-- "Most everyone in the war was fighting for one crown or another. Which side, Mr. Drake?"
"Loyalist," I spat.
Pg. 15-- "I don't know much about loyalty." I fished out one of the coins from Winter's pouch. "But I do know coin. This is what buys my loyalty."
I realize the first reference is to a now deposed king, but it felt awkward to read these sentences on facing pages.
Pg. 26-- Drake is offered double the money to leave the case:
"That's a mighty generous offer, your Lordship. But I'm no mercenary; my loyalties for sale to the highest bidder. I pick my side, and I stick to it."
Didn't he just say coin buys his loyalty?
Pg. 29-- Drake was informed a few pages previous that the body was found in the garden, after falling from the study window. He is now in the study, which we later find is on the third floor.
"The body was found on the lawn?" I gestured with a nod of my head toward the broken window.
"Yes."
"So, he fell outward, then. Let us take a stroll."
...as opposed to falling *in* a third floor window? Mystery, indeed!
Pg. 36-- Drake and Royal Inspector Sir Ernst Loxley-Birmingham (because, of course) are examining the corpse.
"Unusual for the corpse to be naked, don't you think, Inspector?" I asked.
"It's possible the servants removed the tatters of whatever clothing remained after this"-- he gestured broadly toward the wounds--"occurred."
"Wouldn't the clothing have soaked up some of all that blood? My hunch says he was found this way."
"Your hunch is duly noted, Mr. Drake..." etc.
Why are they having this conversation? JUST ASK THE SERVANTS OR WHOMEVER FOUND THE BODY. Also, awkward sentence.
I could go on like this (on pg. 74, we find that the Inspector "called ahead" to have Drake detained. They have phones?), but it's just going to sound mean. There are a few ridiculous action sequences, characters introduced for almost no reason (one for blatant exposition), suspicious behavior ignored by the supposedly canny hero, and so on. The most grievous moment, however, is at the end where .
This could have been a good story if it had some editorial guidance. Instead, 'editor' Carl Engle-Laird (his name is on the copyright page, he should share the burden) did a crap job and now I'm bashing a new author's work instead of enjoying another Tor novella. Tor has done a disservice to both the author and her readers.
Alexander Drake is our first-person protagonist. He has been hired by a younger son of a noble to investigate the death of the father.
Pg. 14-- "Most everyone in the war was fighting for one crown or another. Which side, Mr. Drake?"
"Loyalist," I spat.
Pg. 15-- "I don't know much about loyalty." I fished out one of the coins from Winter's pouch. "But I do know coin. This is what buys my loyalty."
I realize the first reference is to a now deposed king, but it felt awkward to read these sentences on facing pages.
Pg. 26-- Drake is offered double the money to leave the case:
"That's a mighty generous offer, your Lordship. But I'm no mercenary; my loyalties for sale to the highest bidder. I pick my side, and I stick to it."
Didn't he just say coin buys his loyalty?
Pg. 29-- Drake was informed a few pages previous that the body was found in the garden, after falling from the study window. He is now in the study, which we later find is on the third floor.
"The body was found on the lawn?" I gestured with a nod of my head toward the broken window.
"Yes."
"So, he fell outward, then. Let us take a stroll."
...as opposed to falling *in* a third floor window? Mystery, indeed!
Pg. 36-- Drake and Royal Inspector Sir Ernst Loxley-Birmingham (because, of course) are examining the corpse.
"Unusual for the corpse to be naked, don't you think, Inspector?" I asked.
"It's possible the servants removed the tatters of whatever clothing remained after this"-- he gestured broadly toward the wounds--"occurred."
"Wouldn't the clothing have soaked up some of all that blood? My hunch says he was found this way."
"Your hunch is duly noted, Mr. Drake..." etc.
Why are they having this conversation? JUST ASK THE SERVANTS OR WHOMEVER FOUND THE BODY. Also, awkward sentence.
I could go on like this (on pg. 74, we find that the Inspector "called ahead" to have Drake detained. They have phones?), but it's just going to sound mean. There are a few ridiculous action sequences, characters introduced for almost no reason (one for blatant exposition), suspicious behavior ignored by the supposedly canny hero, and so on. The most grievous moment, however, is at the end where .
This could have been a good story if it had some editorial guidance. Instead, 'editor' Carl Engle-Laird (his name is on the copyright page, he should share the burden) did a crap job and now I'm bashing a new author's work instead of enjoying another Tor novella. Tor has done a disservice to both the author and her readers.
October 9, 2018
Picked this up to read sitting in the mall while the family shopped. It was wasn’t high art, but it was exactly the right kind of filler, with a couple of pleasant (if mild) surprises. If the supernatural predator had been something less cliche or the ultimate motivations of the killer had been better drawn, it would be the difference between a sufficient snack and a book I’d recommend as worthwhile on its own merits.
January 12, 2018
I really enjoy novellas and short stories and there was a lot to like in this one; good voice, interesting premise, great descriptions. It is a fantasy mystery and was handled well. It just needed more. Not to be a full length novel, but another 15 - 20 pages would have been great. That being said, I would definitely try more from this author.
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