Piers Alexander

So much packed into this clever novel

Carole’s Book Corner

Calumny Spinks, a ‘long-limbed red-haired Frenchy gawk’ is the narrator of this novel and we follow his journey, after a tragic incident, from a small town in Essex to the big city of London where he becomes involved in conspiracies, coffeehouses and silk weavers.

There is so much packed into this clever novel, with twists and turns, romance, double dealings, murders, fears of an impending war and friendships, but it also has a soft side, especially the relationship between Calumny and his father which changed throughout the story. A really enjoyable fast-paced novel with memorable characters and a memorable storyline. Looking forward to the next chapter in the life of Mister Calumny Spinks.