Having ploughed through some really fat fantasies of late, a new Thraxas novel is a real tonic. If you've read my thoughts posted here on the previous Thraxas books, [Thraxas, Thraxas and the Sorcerers] you'll know that I'm a big fan of Martin Scott's work. (If you're not convinced, see John's November 2000 interview - ed) . There is something in particular about his overweight, overbearing, highly cynical protagonist that I find particularly appealing -- though put in those terms, I draw the line at suggesting Thraxas is a kindred spirit!

Book Description: In the enchanted city of Turai, the royal family is corrupt, the politicians can be bought, and the civic guards have better things to do than guarding. Thraxas may look unprepossessing, being overweight and not quite overbrained, and more interested in pursuit of his next glass of beer than pursuit of justice, but if you're in trouble in Turai this portly private eye is probably your only hope. Winter's on its way to Turai, and so are an army of Orcs. Thraxas may have been a hero of the last Orc War (according to him) but he's got absolutely no intention of getting mixed up in this battle and is planning to keep his head well down—preferably buried in a big steak pie. Unfortunately, his next case has him in an investigation at the war ministry. A Senior Councilor has been murdered. With a cake . . .

(Source: Baen)