Volume 1- Vanity (Vain & Valour)
By Justin Autor
By Justin Autor
Publication Date: 10th December 2023
Publisher: Staten House
Page Length: 308
Genre: Historical Fiction
Everyone’s hunting him.
He’s hunting for answers.
This is not yet the story of a spy — but of how one is made.
1791. Switzerland. As revolution roars across neighbouring France, a fragile confederacy braces for upheaval. Suspicions fester between cantons. Foreign powers circle like wolves. An assassination attempt may have just ignited the powder keg.
Amidst this storm, a nameless fugitive flees for Zürich bearing a scroll that could save himself — and his country. But fate has other plans. A sudden blow to the head erases his memory, plunging him into a whirlwind of confusion, mistaken identities, and utter mayhem.
With a nation now on the brink, dangers closing in, and his amnesia a ticking time bomb, the questions only multiply: Will he recall who he is and the secret he carries before it’s too late? Or will Switzerland fall? Is he the traitor everyone seeks? Or simply history’s hapless fool?
Vain, blundering, bold, and utterly clueless of even his own name, he might — just might — change the course of history... if he doesn’t trip over his own sword first.
History, mystery, and misadventure collide.
“Search the waters!” came a familiar shout from near the castle, followed by the clatter of armoured men. “Find that traitor!”
Teeth gritted against his afflictions, he (whom we may suppose is this accused traitor) hauled himself up against a rock and staggered into the thickening wood, where, beyond the orange glare, deep shadows merged with the evening’s darkness.
Leaving a castle ablaze, he escapes into the night. But his enemies are close on his heels, and if they catch him, they will not be merciful.
Carrying an important message, he must reach Zürich. But with a series of unfortunate events, he wakes up in a strange house with strange people, with no memory of who he is or where he came from.
But it is only a matter of time before his past finally catches up with him.
Step into the enchanting realm of Volume 1 - Vanity (Vain & Valour) by Justin Autor. With a masterful command of language, Autor crafts an intricate narrative that comes alive through vibrant detail. Each scene is meticulously painted, pulling you into a world filled with shadows and secrets.
The portrayal of 18th-century Switzerland is truly masterful. This period is marked by a palpable tension, as the looming threat of invasion from France casts a shadow over the serene landscapes. The meticulous historical research that underpins this depiction enriches the narrative, allowing readers to immerse themselves in the challenges and complexities faced by the people of that era. Every detail is carefully crafted, capturing the essence of a nation on the brink of turmoil while still celebrating its rich culture and resilient spirit.
The author masterfully employs an archaic writing style that evokes the elegance of Austen and the vivid imagery of Dickens. The prose is adorned with long, descriptive passages that paint rich pictures of the settings and characters. However, this stylistic choice also has its drawbacks, as it considerably slows the narrative pace, leading to sections where the plot seems to stall, leaving readers yearning for progression. Throughout the novel, the author engages directly with the reader, establishing a charming intimacy that classic literature enthusiasts are sure to appreciate. The intricately woven plot, skilfully traversing various perspectives, adds layers of intrigue and complexity to the story. The opening and concluding segments of the novel are beautifully crafted, brimming with excitement and suspense that grip the reader’s attention. In contrast, the middle section, where the protagonist grapples with the trials of amnesia, becomes a prolonged journey, stretching on far too long and testing the reader’s patience. Despite this, the overall narrative remains a captivating exploration of character and circumstance.
The protagonist is intricately developed, primarily through subtle implications. The reader gleans insights into his character from his actions and reactions—his fierce determination to survive, his deep concern for the precious scroll, and the turbulent storm of emotions brewing within him. The narrative offers no glimpse into his past. The reader is only thrust into the chaos of a castle engulfed in flames, with him desperately fleeing for his life. Known only by the labels of ‘traitor’ or ‘hero,’ the reader is left in a haze of uncertainty. Initially, this unnamed figure evokes a sense of sympathy, despite his morally ambiguous actions. His desperation and resilience draw the reader in, making the reader root for him, yet there lies beneath the surface a darker undercurrent that incites intense dislike. He perceives himself as above the peasantry, wielding his words like a weapon, vicious and cruel, even towards those who benevolently extend their help. As the story unfolds, his glaring lack of empathy and haughty demeanour only serve to alienate him further from the reader’s favour, compelling us to wish for his downfall, perhaps at the hands of Edmunda’s merciless broom! Or maybe he could be condemned to a lifetime of being force-fed, bland, unappetising gruel, for his aversion to such dreary fare was impossible to ignore. Each spoonful seemed to amplify his vocal protests, making his distaste clear for all to hear!
The author crafts an unforgiving depiction of the peasants, blending humour with unsettling realism. During the hero’s initial encounter with two endearing yet eccentric old peasants, it quickly becomes apparent that he lacks any semblance of true heroism. The peasant woman, a striking figure with her disproportionately goblin-like features and wild hair, accompanied by her equally unusual husband, leaves a vivid impression—one that feels almost dreamlike in this narrative. Despite their peculiar looks, they demonstrate profound compassion, even going to the extent of selling a cherished clock—a treasured artefact laden with memories from their humble lives—to procure delicious food for the hero, far superior to the monotonous gruel he grumbles about with such bitterness. However, when he awakens in another unfamiliar dwelling, his memories stripped away like fragile leaves in the wind, he reveals a shocking lack of gratitude towards those who have selflessly nurtured him. His treatment of these warm-hearted individuals is nothing short of disgraceful; it is almost unfathomable that they didn’t simply return him to where they found him, or leave him to wander lost among the trees. His clumsiness becomes painfully apparent as he stumbles through the simplest of tasks, crafting scenarios that invite embarrassment rather than sympathy. The hero’s interactions with Edmunda, in particular, as well as the rest of her family, are rife with disdain; rather than illuminating their lives with hope or joy, he injects confusion and turmoil into their once-harmonious existence. The experience of living with Elizabeth and her family unfolds like a chaotic comedy of errors. “Peter”, a name he is given by Elizabeth, proves utterly unreliable when it comes to even the most straightforward tasks. This raises a compelling dilemma for the reader: is Peter truly incompetent, or does he deliberately shirk his responsibilities, resembling a petulant, spoiled child? His actions often betray a striking absence of common sense. As a result, he morphs into a vivid caricature of foolishness, much to the amusement of the reader and the frustration of those around him.
Edmunda, a woman full of lively chatter and lacking formal education, evokes deep sympathy from the reader. She toils tirelessly alongside her family, striving to carve out a better life for herself and her loved ones. Her pride in her modest home and warm hearth shines through, revealing a heart that values comfort and belonging. With a sense of urgency, she wishes for her daughter, Elizabeth, to marry, haunted by the fear that Elizabeth might remain unmarried and overlooked. In her determination, Edmunda negotiates a match with a local farmer, hopeful that Elizabeth will find security and companionship in his son. Everything changes with the arrival of a mysterious stranger, “Peter.” When Elizabeth boldly announces her betrothal to him, Edmunda is taken aback, but quickly pivots her views, seeing this unfamiliar man as a more suitable partner for her daughter. Little does she realise the whirlwind of chaos “Peter” will soon unleash upon their lives. Despite the dramatic turns, Edmunda remains a character that the reader cannot help but adore; her feisty spirit, warmth, and genuine kindness make her both relatable and endearing.
Despite her soft and gentle demeanour, Elizabeth possesses a shrewdness that allows her to manipulate the surrounding circumstances to her advantage. She is determined to avoid a future with the farmer’s son, a match she finds unappealing. Consequently, she takes advantage of “Peter’s” amnesia, viewing him as a means of escaping her predicament. But “Peter” is a stranger to his own past, and as the story unfolds, his fragmented memories start to resurface in fleeting glimpses. This creates an emotional rift between them, as “Peter” grows increasingly wary and begins to question Elizabeth’s honesty. The tension between them mounts, with the shadows of doubt clouding their interactions, leaving both to navigate a tumultuous sea of uncertainty.
The tension in the story is driven by the unyielding pursuit of the protagonist by a relentless group of enemies, creating an atmosphere thick with danger and uncertainty. As he navigates through perilous situations—such as the chilling threat of drowning in dark waters, the searing pain of fire, the risk of debilitating injury, and the harshness of exposure to the elements, not to mention being captured by the Swiss Guard—the stakes seem impossibly high. Yet, the reader’s deepest concern arises when he suffers from amnesia; he wanders through a world he no longer recognises, completely oblivious to the fact that he is a wanted man. This blind spot leaves him vulnerable, intensifying the suspense as he unknowingly navigates a path filled with threats and traps laid out by those who seek to harm him.
Volume 1 - Vanity (Vain & Valour) by Justin Autor is a captivating novel that intricately weaves themes of ambition and morality. With its rich prose and engaging characters, this story will undoubtedly resonate with readers who cherish a traditional narrative style. Set against a backdrop of social intrigue and complex relationships, it invites readers to explore the nuances of vanity and valour, making it a compelling addition to any literary collection.
Review By Mary Anne Yarde
The Coffee Pot Book Club
Justan Autor
Justan Autor is a newcomer author to the world of novels, bringing a passion for the arts to historical fiction.
Throughout his youth and adulthood, Justan has been painting, landscape gardening, tailoring, playing the pianoforte, and composing classical music. It was only 5 years ago that he discovered his true calling in narrative and novel writing.
As a descendant of Swiss merchants and courtiers in the Neuchâtelois court, and inspired by a love of 18th and 19th century literature, Justan strives to immerse readers in the sights, sounds and struggles of revolutionary Europe. Justan’s first series delves into seldom-told tales of political turmoil in 1790s Switzerland.
With multilayered characters and dramatic storytelling accented by threads of wit, satire, and burlesque reminiscent of classic authors like Dumas and Fielding, Justan’s diverse passions shape his unique authorial voice — inviting readers into a living past.
Justan invites you to be transported back through his vivid prose and rediscover the intrigues of turbulent Switzerland alongside ancestors who shaped an epoch.
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