Foundling (Monster Blood Tattoo, Book 1)

Rossamünd, a foundling with a girl's name, is about to embark on a perilous journey in the service of the Emperor of the Half-Continent. What begins as a simple voyage soon escalates into a treacherous and intricate sequence of battles and decisions. Humans, monsters, and otherworldly beings – among these, Rossamünd must determine whom he can trust.

D. M. Cornish has crafted an entirely unique world, grounded in his own meticulously crafted, classically inspired illustrations. Foundling is a spellbinding, Dickensian adventure that will whisk the reader away.

The story follows Rossamünd, a young boy who has been raised in an orphanage, unaware of his true origins. When he is given the opportunity to become a Lamplighter, a position in the service of the Emperor, he embarks on a journey that will challenge everything he thought he knew about himself and the world around him.

As Rossamünd navigates the treacherous landscape of the Half-Continent, he encounters a diverse cast of characters, each with their own agendas and allegiances. From the benevolent to the nefarious, Rossamünd must discern who he can trust and who poses a threat to his well-being and the success of his mission.

Cornish's world-building is a masterful blend of the familiar and the fantastical. The Half-Continent is a richly detailed setting, where the lines between reality and the supernatural are blurred. Rossamünd's encounters with creatures both human and unearthly keep the reader on the edge of their seat, wondering what challenges he will face next.

The author's classical influences are evident in the narrative style, which is both lyrical and engaging. Rossamünd's journey is a coming-of-age story, as the young protagonist grapples with questions of identity, loyalty, and his own place in the world.

Foundling is a captivating and immersive read, a testament to Cornish's storytelling prowess and his ability to create a world that feels both familiar and wholly unique. Readers will be swept away by Rossamünd's adventures, rooting for him as he navigates the treacherous and often unpredictable terrain of the Half-Continent.

Through vivid descriptions and complex character development, Cornish invites the reader to step into the shoes of Rossamünd and experience the wonder and peril of his journey firsthand. The novel's blend of fantasy, adventure, and Dickensian sensibilities make it a must-read for fans of imaginative and thought-provoking fiction.

Overall, Foundling is a captivating and richly detailed tale that will leave a lasting impression on the reader. D. M. Cornish's masterful world-building and Rossamünd's engaging journey make this a remarkable and unforgettable literary experience.

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