Book Review: The Tainted Cup (Shadow of the Leviathan #1) by Robert Jackson Bennett (three stars)
“Projecting motives is a fool’s game. But how they do it—that’s a matter of matter, moving real things about in real space.”
Excellent character and world building. A fantasy mystery with sides of political intrigue and supernatural monsters. Narrative propels the story and reader at eye-watering speed.
“You know how he was killed?” “Of course I do. He was killed by an assassin.” Ana turned her blindfolded face to [redacted]. “And you helped them do it, sir.”
Convoluted plot helps conceal and reveal, as appropriate, the narrator to both him and his reader. His flaws and talents mesh to create an extraordinary but believable Watson. Bennett’s Holmes is less credible though equally entertaining.
“What the [redacted] else do you know how to do?” I handed her the cup. “I do seem to be developing a talent for tolerating verbal abuse and mad questions, ma’am.”
Lost a star for gratuitous profanity. Not only offensive but mostly unnecessary. It didn’t fit the character of Bennett’s sleuth to talk trash like a teen. Lazy writing. Some will be entertained.
“And then I had to go and do something gallant and stupid anyway.” “Yes. It shall take work to keep you alive, boy.
As a Matter of Fancy 