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Weathercock

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'Weathercock' by Glen Duncan is a novel that follows the life of Dominic Hood, from his childhood in Lancashire to his adulthood as a publisher's agent in New York. The story intertwines themes of bullying, cruelty, sadism, and the struggle for one's soul. The narrative shifts between Dominic's past and present, exploring his relationships with Father Ignatius Malone, Penguin, and the manipulative Deborah Black. The writing style is described as deep, enthralling, and provocative, with a blend of wit, observational humor, and a touch of supernatural elements.

Characters:

Characters include a troubled anti-hero, a haunting priest, and a sadistic woman, creating a deeply flawed and engaging cast.

Writing/Prose:

The writing is characterized by its elegance and depth, balancing beauty with disturbing themes.

Plot/Storyline:

The story centers on a man wrestling with his darker desires and shame, intertwined with complex relationships from childhood to adulthood.

Setting:

The narrative shifts between childhood in Lancashire and adulthood in New York, enriching the character's journey.

Pacing:

Pacing is engaging but can be confusing, with intricate plot development that challenges the reader.

Notes:

The main character, Dominic Hood, battles with dark impulses and his search for meaning.
Dominic feels shame about his thoughts, influenced by his religious upbringing.
He seeks guidance from a mysterious priest, Father Ignatius Malone, who has a haunting presence throughout the novel.
The story spans Dominic's life, depicting both his childhood and adult struggles.
The themes of sadism and sexual exploration are central to the narrative, which may not be suitable for all readers.
Duncan's writing style is considered elegant and provocative, often pushing readers' comfort zones.
The book includes a vivid exorcism scene that captures both disgust and sympathy.
Despite its dark themes, readers often find Dominic to be a relatable and believable character.
The novel interweaves humor and wit, but some readers hoped for more of it compared to Duncan's previous works like 'I Lucifer.'
It explores complex themes of good and evil, redemption, and personal depravity.
The author's writing style engages readers with rich descriptions and observational humor.

Sensitive Topics/Content Warnings

Content warnings include depictions of violence, sadism, sexual exploration, psychological trauma, and references to religion.

Has Romance?

While romance is present, it is complicated and often tinged with darker elements.

From The Publisher:

This is the confession of Dominic Francis Hood - Roman Catholic, sadist, conspirator to murder, witness to a miracle. Dominic's childhood had the usual cardinal points: the love of his family, a vague belief in God, a general curiosity, an emerging libido. But after he witnesses a miracle performed by Father Ignatius Malone, Dominic realises some part of him is skewed. Instead of becoming attracted to good, Dominic finds himself stimulated by the idea of other people's pain. And he knows that the mere fantasy will never be enough. WEATHERCOCK is the great modern moral inquiry, by one of England's brightest and most confronting young novelists. By turns hilarious, appalling, celebratory and sad, it is an investigation of profound temptations and those human weapons - sometimes formidable, sometimes frail - we bring to bear against them.

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