Robert Merival, worldly, overweight and loud is content to play the fool for his adored mentor Charles II even to the extent of becoming a 'paper groom' to the King's young mistress. Then things go wrong and he becomes an outcast, striving to find his way to spiritual and social restoration. Tremain is a master of place, time and atmosphere and portrays hugely satisfying characters. Not a new novel but infinitely worth seeking out.
(Jenny Baker - bwl 26 October 2004 ) |
