Synopsis:
Murder is just, so long as it serves the crown.
Hidden behind a mask and with a dagger in his sheath, Mute serves the crown with pride. A fair life, if not a monotonous one. But his next contract nicks too close, for murder within a brothel is always nasty business, especially the one which Mute frequents. The brothel his Dorothy works, his Dorothy who awaits Mute and only Mute. Surely none would dare touch her, for if they did, royalty or not, they would fall to Lord Mute, the Silent God’s chosen one. They would scream…
And not a sound would be heard.
Review:
It is rare to come across something unique in fantasy, even dark fantasy, and though I’ve read books that resonate in a similar manner to ‘The Whisper’, the main character’s voice has a strength and depth I don’t think I’ve encountered before. That they are unpleasant, self-serving and prepared to listen to the counsel of others when such propositions serve their needs, is one thing. That you experience the whole internal dialogue, including the self-delusion, is another. Wolff pulls this off with aplomb, and sprinkles of humour that I enjoyed. It is the story of a royal assassin obsessed with a lady of the night who does not return the sentiment. That this leads to bloodshed, betrayal, more betrayal and an offer he could refuse but doesn’t, is the plot around which his fluctuating moods ebb and flow.
Wolff has a thrilling turn of phrase. His prose pulls you in, and I will be checking out more of his work ASAP. Superb.
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