Dead Man in a Ditch
Synopsis
Rumour has it that Fetch Philips is investigating how to bring magic back to the world. Sunder City has attracted investments that promise to start the old forges back up again, and after the man responsible is killed with what seems to be magic, Fetch is called in to help work out where the magic could have come from and how it’s back.
Review
A stellar sequel that rounds out Fetch’s arc. With enthralling dialogue and characters, Arnold has expanded upon what made the first book such an enjoyable read, while avoiding long expository plot dumps that frustrated the pacing of the first book. Old characters return, and new characters are introduced, and all of them are captivating. Well fleshed out with understandable motives and personalities, Arnold once again shows his competence at writing compelling, interesting characters.
The story develops into what I would say is a damning tale of human greed, amongst magical creatures and monsters that provide a magnificent foil to their ambitions. Fetch continues to be eminently likeable, as his harsher character notes slowly get ground down to reveal the optimistic, affable Fetch that is harkened back to frequently in the first instalment’s backstory dumps.
The story is quite straight forward, with a compelling mystery that despite having guessed early on, does not disappoint with its resolution following the main plot reveal. Fetch is sent further afield than just the city proper in this instalment, which provides perfect opportunities for Arnold to continue fleshing out his magnetic world and its mythos. The ending is bittersweet but does at the very least hint that Arnold has wider ambitions for Fetch and the world he has crafted.
Final Thoughts
I was left with a hunger for more when I finished the book – and disappointed that I’d have to wait to read more from Arnold! I’ve only recently gotten back into regularly reading and starting off with this fantastic series has got me struggling to find another book in the fantasy genres that are equally as gripping and well written. Please, please, please give this series a shot if you’re a fan of fantasy and/or the noir genre. It does not disappoint!
The book is available in English and German.
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