Quillifer

I quite enjoyed this story. You can always count on Walter Jon Williams for a good read; this is no exception.[b:Quillifer 34466940 Quillifer Walter Jon Williams https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1495056522s/34466940.jpg 55587016] is set in a fantasy world. However, there seem to be very few fantastical elements. There is one point where he has a problem with some fire-breathing beasties, and a demi-goddess makes an occasional appearance. But other than that, it seems more like a historical novel set in something resembling Tudor England.This is basically an action/adventure novel. At the start, Quillifer is a young man who grew up working with his father in the butcher's guild but has now been apprenticed to the lawyer's guild. The story starts slowly, building the world and giving a feel for Quillifer and his situation. Then all hell breaks loose and things are never the same again for Quillifer.He is a well-built fellow, but doesn't think himself a fighter or brave. He prefers to live by his wits and has considerable success with the ladies. I would call him a rake except that he genuinely cares for the women/girls he consorts with. As he moves from adventure to adventure, he finds he must be both a fighter and brave.We get raider attacks, privateering, deadly encounters with brigands and murderers, do or die military action, a bit of romance, and a considerable amount of humor.I listened to the audiobook version. Ralph Lister's narration is very good.Good book. I hope for more adventures of Quillifer.