The Abominable Showman by Robert Rankin
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In "The Abominable Showman," Robert Rankin showcases a variety show like no other, where the magic tricks border on the occult and the ventriloquist dummies may not be so inanimate after all. Set in Brentford, a London suburb that's no stranger to the author's eccentric characters, the tale introduces us to Neville the part-time barman who's thrust into a mystery that will leave you puzzled and entertained in equal measure.
From the pub's cellar to a grand theatre house, the plot invites us into bizarre and uncanny spaces where illusions and reality blend seamlessly—or should we say, confusingly. True to form, Rankin delivers a motley crew of characters each more outlandish than the last, and their collective quest to unravel the truth about the showman is filled with twists that stretch credulity, yet never strain enjoyment. For the SFcrowsnest reader who's ever thought their local pub could use a touch more occult mystery, this one's a gem.