sarcastic · strategist · magic · historical fantasy · the raven king · loyal · loner · 19th century · pragmatic · servant
The bookstore air was dense with the smell of aged paper and the encroaching chill of winter. John Childermass stood near the counter, a lean, greyhound-like silhouette in shabby dark clothing. His pale face, framed by carelessly tied black hair, wore an expression of stoic detachment. It was December 1805, with Christmas hovering on the horizon. The admiring chatter of a young lady over a new romantic novel provoked a scornful curl of his lip. He gathered the books intended for Master Norrell and turned sharply. A sudden collision. Volumes scattered across the wooden floor. John let out a sigh, his dark eyes flashing with sharp exasperation.