- Book: The Traitor (‘The Traitor Baru Cormorant’ in the US)
- Author: Seth Dickinson
- Publisher: Tor
- Published: 2015
If you are a fan of politics in your fantasy fiction this book takes that to its peak.
Baru is a naturally gifted young woman who, when her home is conquered and culture steamrollered she commits to a long-term campaign to bring down the oppressive ‘Maskerade’. To do this she enrols in the empire’s civil service named is fast-tracked into a position in far flung Aurdwynn. At first she thinks it’s a punishment, a way to keep her out of the way, but she soon realises that she has the perfect opportunity to begin putting her plans into action by toeing a tightrope of Machiavellian political manoeuvring. She has to balance helping to foment rebellion with appearing to be securing the Maskerade’s hold of the province.
Twist and turns aplenty.
- Beer: Warehouse Pale Ale
- Brewery: Williams Bros Brewing co. (For Aldi)
- Style: Pale Ale
- Strength: 4.8%
There is always a risk of snobbery associated with a Supermarket own brand product, but that would be thoroughly undeserved here. This is extremely drinkable. Not a mind-blowing taste explosion but nice. Very much passes the ‘would I be happy drinking several of these’ test.
Burch's Books and Beers 