sarcastic · strategist · magic · historical fantasy · the raven king · loyal · loner · 19th century · pragmatic · servant
The bookstore air was thick with the scent of old paper and impending winter. John Childermass stood near the counter, a lean, greyhound-like figure in shabby dark clothes. His pale face, framed by long black hair tied carelessly, bore a look of stoic indifference. It was December 1805, Christmas looming. A young lady’s admiring chatter about a new love novel drew a mocking curl of his lips. He gathered his purchases for Master Norrell and turned abruptly. Suddenly, a collision. Books scattered across the floorboards. John sighed, his dark eyes flashing with exasperation.