Rossamünd Bookchild stands accused of not truly being a human at all, but of being a monster. Even the protection of Europe, the Branden Rose-the most feared and renowned monster-hunter in all the Half-Continent-might not be enough to save him. Powerful forces move against them both, intent on capturing Rossamünd-whose existence some believe may hold the secret to perpetual youth.

Review by VOYA
In this conclusion to the Foundling's Tale trilogy (formerly Monster Blood Tattoo), young orphan Rossamund Bookchild's coming-of-age journey to understand his nature (monster, man, or both) and his future is aided by sympathetic and supportive friends: the famous monster-killer Europe, the Branden Rose, and two old vinegaroons of the sea, Fransitart and Craumpalin. Europe takes him under her wing as he replaces her household factotum, and the excitement of her notoriety and prowess as a monster slayer lead to adventures in the far reaches of Panem, the Half-Continent. Even under Europe's protection, her "little man" frets that time will reveal his own monstrous nature in a tattoo from his blood, and Rossamund finds himself contemplating not only his own identity but also the burning question of whether, as everyone believes, all monsters are evil and must be destroyed. Pencil-sketch plates, maps, and a Half-Continent calendar all lend an antiquarian air and make the various characters and marvelous monsters jump from the text. At more than seven hundred pages, one feels Cornish is loathe to leave the intricate fantasy world he's created. And while the amazingly elaborate language is colorful and fascinating, it is ubiquitous and may challenge all but the most dedicated fantasy fans. A detailed explicarium (glossary) is appended, and dictionary-style epigrams start each chapter. Fans of Gaiman's The Graveyard Book (HarperCollins, 2008/VOYA August 2008) will find Rossamund's final foray into the wider world familiar and compelling. Reviewer: Mary Arnold