Soon the naive but plucky pitchman becomes embroiled in a dangerous quest. Fanule suspects Alphonse Hunzinger and Purinton's civic leaders are responsible for the disappearance or incarceration of countless Branded Mongrels. But why? As Will's passion and regard for his tormented lover grow, he's determined to help Fanule get answers and prevent any further persecution... or worse. They just have to stay together—and stay alive long enough—to see their plan through.
This was an interesting story with a unique, well-built world and truly fascinating characters. Fanule Perfidor is the leader of the mongrels, individuals who aren't full-bloodied human and are forced to have their human percentages tattooed on their necks. Fan is tall, has dark purple hair, two differently colored eyes, and suffers from bipolar disorder. He still suffers from some past trauma, but he's intense, dangerous, and just sex on legs. I loved him instantly. When Fan starts to suspect something sinister is happening to his people, he goes to Hunzinger's Mechanical circus and approaches a young peddler named Will. At first Will is reluctant to associate with Fan, even if he feels a certain fascination. And honestly, this character is so well-done, anybody would be enthralled.
Fanule makes a habit of having one-nighters in this world's equivalent of gay bars. One evening, he seduces young Will, and its clear to both of them right away that they've shared more than a night of physical pleasure. I appreciate that the author gave Will enough personality and depth that he isn't overshadowed by Fan's complexities. The supporting characters are treated just as equitably, and really add another dimension to the world. I loved Marrowbone, Fan's vampire ex-lover. Together, they decide to find out why branded mongrels are disappearing. It gets a bit gory over the course of their investigation. Will's relationship with Fan deepens, and its endearing to watch them grow from lovers to a couple who really care about, and would probably do anything for, each other. They really need the strength of their bond to carry them through some of the harder parts of their investigation. They grow to accept each other, scars and all, because neither is perfect.
I came very close to rating this book a five. The love story is beautiful and believable, the characters are almost perfect (perfectly written, not perfect people), the descriptions are gorgeous and the action is fast-paced and suspenseful. There were unfortunately some important details that got neglected, such as, what exactly ARE the mongrels? They're described as part human and part something else, but we're never given a clue as to what. Also, I felt some of the technology and gadgets deserved a little bit more of an explanation. It didn't bother me much though, because I cared so much about the characters and wanted to see them succeed. I can forgive almost anything when given characters this fascinating, and really there's not much to forgive here, just a few small details that might have added to my understanding of the world. With so much good, though, its easy to overlook the few, tiny faults. I really hope to see more of Fan, Will, and Marrowbone.
Buy a copy here.
