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Volume 3: VOLITION: A Humorous Historical Spy Thriller of Heists & Revolutionary Intrigue
This edition has been replaced. Please search for " The Improbable Spy" for the current edition.
A Spectacle of Spies, Sabotage, and Silk Stockings.
1793. Switzerland. Liberté, égalité, and fraternité thunder across the borders. For the Confederacy, these are treacherous times indeed. Survival demands reinvention — the fugitive becomes the operative.
The cabal has revealed its reach, but not its master. A secret war is coming… a war waged in the shadows. Now a crumbling nation faces imminent erasure — even continental catastrophe where every whisper is a weapon, every secret a snare.
And so, armed with steadfast allies and a newfound resolve, our hero masquerades as sundry characters, scales balconies with questionable grace, and wields his long-suffering valet to lethal advantage.
Yet, with every step deeper into a world of spycraft and subterfuge, the questions only Will he unmask the architect before the trap snaps shut? Or will terror reign? Will he master the art of deception? Or fall in so lethal a game?
Desperate, determined, audacious, and possibly the most IMPROBABLE spymaster in the Confederacy, he might — just might — pull this off... if his nerve doesn’t fail him first.
“... for the readiness is all.” — Hamlet
For those who relish a masterclass in mayhem, serving up a narrative where the grit of espionage meets the glory of the absurd.
Themes & 🕵️ The Spy From hapless fugitive to proactive agent—a transformation fraught with peril. Political A high-stakes game where nations are the pawns and the board is set to burn. 🎭 Master of Bad French accents, powdered wigs, and questionable fashion choices. 🤝 Enemies to Old foes unite against a common evil in a fragile truce. 🔓 The Great Breaking into dens of vice, noble estates, and secret lairs. 🐍 The Shadow Battling the Tatzelwurms on their own turf. 🔥 Revolutionary The world is burning, and he is holding the match. 🧈 Dignity Under Losing fake moustaches, dangling from trellises, and falling into fountains. 🕊️ Found Loyal companions discovered in a nest of vipers.
EDITORIAL “Volition (Vain & Valour, Volume 3)” by Justan Autor is a captivating instalment that immerses readers in a world where unpredictability reigns supreme. With each turn of the page, unexpected twists and rich character development unfold, inviting the reader to explore the thrilling possibilities that lie ahead. — The Coffee Pot Book Club ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐
Yet again the author delivers an exquisite volume of adventure, intrigue and romance interlaced with witty humour. ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ Reader review
A Spectacle of Spies, Sabotage, and Silk Stockings.
1793. Switzerland. Liberté, égalité, and fraternité thunder across the borders. For the Confederacy, these are treacherous times indeed. Survival demands reinvention — the fugitive becomes the operative.
The cabal has revealed its reach, but not its master. A secret war is coming… a war waged in the shadows. Now a crumbling nation faces imminent erasure — even continental catastrophe where every whisper is a weapon, every secret a snare.
And so, armed with steadfast allies and a newfound resolve, our hero masquerades as sundry characters, scales balconies with questionable grace, and wields his long-suffering valet to lethal advantage.
Yet, with every step deeper into a world of spycraft and subterfuge, the questions only Will he unmask the architect before the trap snaps shut? Or will terror reign? Will he master the art of deception? Or fall in so lethal a game?
Desperate, determined, audacious, and possibly the most IMPROBABLE spymaster in the Confederacy, he might — just might — pull this off... if his nerve doesn’t fail him first.
“... for the readiness is all.” — Hamlet
For those who relish a masterclass in mayhem, serving up a narrative where the grit of espionage meets the glory of the absurd.
Themes & 🕵️ The Spy From hapless fugitive to proactive agent—a transformation fraught with peril. Political A high-stakes game where nations are the pawns and the board is set to burn. 🎭 Master of Bad French accents, powdered wigs, and questionable fashion choices. 🤝 Enemies to Old foes unite against a common evil in a fragile truce. 🔓 The Great Breaking into dens of vice, noble estates, and secret lairs. 🐍 The Shadow Battling the Tatzelwurms on their own turf. 🔥 Revolutionary The world is burning, and he is holding the match. 🧈 Dignity Under Losing fake moustaches, dangling from trellises, and falling into fountains. 🕊️ Found Loyal companions discovered in a nest of vipers.
EDITORIAL “Volition (Vain & Valour, Volume 3)” by Justan Autor is a captivating instalment that immerses readers in a world where unpredictability reigns supreme. With each turn of the page, unexpected twists and rich character development unfold, inviting the reader to explore the thrilling possibilities that lie ahead. — The Coffee Pot Book Club ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐
Yet again the author delivers an exquisite volume of adventure, intrigue and romance interlaced with witty humour. ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ Reader review
284 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 26, 2024
1 person want to read
About the author
Justan Autor
22 books2 followersA partisan to the picaresque and pastiche. Not for fans of simple sentences.
Justan Autor came late to the wicked joy of novels, having first tried his hand at most of the civilised arts: he painted pictures, trimmed hedgerows into obedience, stitched respectable garments, and wooed a pianoforte into confessing melodies. Only thereafter did he discover that narrative mischief suited him best.
A devotee of the 18th and 19th‑century masters, he writes in a classical key with a modern tempo—history that crackles, characters with inconvenient desires, and a burlesque glint when daggers flash. His first novel ushers readers into 1790s Switzerland: mountains, intrigue, and a hero who frequently collides with his own better judgement.
If you fancy Dumas for the dash, Fielding for the grin, Austen for the bite, and Dickens for the sweep—served with present‑day verve—do make his acquaintance.
Pray, if any of this author's works have earned your good opinion, a kind word on GoodReads (even Amazon) would be a most welcome reward. Should this author's works have failed to please, pray, let your judgement be rendered with mercy!
Justan Autor came late to the wicked joy of novels, having first tried his hand at most of the civilised arts: he painted pictures, trimmed hedgerows into obedience, stitched respectable garments, and wooed a pianoforte into confessing melodies. Only thereafter did he discover that narrative mischief suited him best.
A devotee of the 18th and 19th‑century masters, he writes in a classical key with a modern tempo—history that crackles, characters with inconvenient desires, and a burlesque glint when daggers flash. His first novel ushers readers into 1790s Switzerland: mountains, intrigue, and a hero who frequently collides with his own better judgement.
If you fancy Dumas for the dash, Fielding for the grin, Austen for the bite, and Dickens for the sweep—served with present‑day verve—do make his acquaintance.
Pray, if any of this author's works have earned your good opinion, a kind word on GoodReads (even Amazon) would be a most welcome reward. Should this author's works have failed to please, pray, let your judgement be rendered with mercy!
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Displaying 1 - 2 of 2 reviews
July 27, 2025
“The world is changing, Corporal, and not for the better. The rabble, once content with their lot, now clamour for rights and representation. And with revolutionary ideas inching ever closer to our city’s walls, we must do what is necessary to protect what is important.”
With the aristocracy’s inability to treat the common man with respect and dignity, it is no surprise that the events unfolding in France may spill over into Switzerland, despite its desperate attempts at neutrality.
Valentin has stopped running; he knows who he is and what he must do. However, there are forces that will stop at nothing to prevent him from uncovering the truth behind the unfolding plot.
Can Valentin survive? And what will become of his beloved Switzerland if he does not?
“Volition (Vain & Valour, Volume 3)” by Justan Autor is a captivating instalment that immerses readers in a world where unpredictability reigns supreme. With each turn of the page, unexpected twists and rich character development unfold, inviting the reader to explore the thrilling possibilities that lie ahead. Prepare for a journey filled with suspense, action, and intrigue, where anything can happen, and the stakes have never been higher.
The narrative employs a somewhat omniscient third-person point of view, allowing the reader to glimpse both the characters’ inner thoughts and outer actions. Autor also engages the reader directly, weaving in comments that provide context and foreshadow unfolding events. This approach fosters a sense of intimacy, drawing readers into the heart of the story and inviting them to participate in the emotional journey. However, this closeness can also create a slight detachment from the characters’ immediate experiences, making it challenging to fully immerse oneself in their struggles and triumphs. Furthermore, the narrative’s frequent shifts between timelines and abrupt transitions from one setting to another can leave readers feeling momentarily disoriented, akin to a whirlwind journey through the narrative landscape.
The writing is rich in descriptive language, creating vivid images of people, places, and events. The descriptions often appeal to the reader’s senses of sight, sound, and smell. The dialogue is generally well-crafted, with each character having a distinct voice, although some of it can feel somewhat formal and stilted, reflecting the 19th-century style. Although the writing maintains a generally clear and coherent style, the frequent digressions and asides can occasionally interrupt the smooth flow of the narrative. This tendency to meander may leave some readers feeling disoriented. Additionally, the language is often embellished, which can render it overly ornate and make it challenging to navigate for those who prefer a more straightforward read.
This series resembles a comedy of errors, with even the most sensible characters, especially the main character, coming across as utterly incompetent and ridiculous. Many characters are also portrayed as caricatures, particularly those from poorer backgrounds, which can lead to uncomfortable reading for modern audiences. Is it appropriate to ridicule someone for their weight or to use their lack of education as a source of comedy? However, it is encouraging to see in this volume that the working poor are not solely depicted as a target for mockery. At last, Valentin, who typically looks down on those he views as beneath him, begins to understand how generous the poor can be with their limited resources compared to the wealthy. But he has done a lot of damage to his reputation, and the “common folk” have long memories.
In this novel, Peter/Valentin emerges in a much more favourable light than in the previous two instalments. Although he doesn’t become a true hero, his moments of sobriety reveal a deeper awareness of his actions. When he isn’t drunk or nursing a hangover, he displays a complexity that adds depth to his character. However, there are still instances where he behaves reprehensibly, particularly in his treatment of Ernest, which elicits a strong sense of loathing from the reader. His sense of entitlement often leads to painfully cringeworthy interactions, painting a picture of a man grappling with his flaws. In this narrative, Valentin embodies the essence of an anti-hero—flawed and unlikable yet undeniably human. Despite this, there are tender moments interspersed throughout, where he shows glimpses of vulnerability and empathy. These fleeting instances allow him to resonate with the audience, evoking a rare sympathy that makes the reader reflect on the complexities of his character.
This novel features a vast array of characters, creating a complex tapestry that can sometimes make it challenging to keep track of their identities and motivations. Du Pont emerges as a treacherous villain, with his duplicity evident in every calculated move. He is a cold-blooded antagonist, unafraid to embrace violence and betrayal to achieve his ambitions. In contrast, Bernhard is a powerful and enigmatic figure, operating from the shadows and skilfully pulling strings while amassing vital information. Pier/Otto is resourceful and cunning, driven to desperate measures to protect his family. His unwavering loyalty is commendable; he remains steadfast once he has pledged his allegiance. Adolfus is another antagonist, depicted as manipulative and shrewd, always staying a few steps ahead in the game of deceit. Amidst the tension, Ludwig provides much-needed comic relief with his light-hearted antics and his struggles with a particular clock, yet he consistently demonstrates loyalty to those around him. Corporal Aeschlimann is ambitious but easily swayed, often falling prey to the schemes of others. In stark contrast, Keller stands as a paragon of integrity, with his moral compass guiding him through the murky waters of the story. Matron Edmunda, a beloved character, is portrayed with less ridicule in this book. Her charming mishaps in pronunciation are more endearing than absurd, adding to her overall warmth and relatability. There are many more characters in this novel beyond those mentioned, and each plays a pivotal role in the development of a multifaceted story that unfolds throughout the narrative.
The political landscape during this tumultuous period is intricately depicted, with Switzerland striving to maintain its neutrality. The revolutionary fervour engulfing France poses a significant threat to Switzerland, which is working tirelessly to prevent the chaos of the revolutionary wars from spilling over into its serene and peaceful country. Meanwhile, the plight of French émigrés seeking refuge from the upheaval raises profound concerns among the Swiss populace. Many people are torn between their compassion for those fleeing the turmoil and their fear that providing support could destabilise their own society.
“Volition (Vain & Valour, Volume 3)” by Justan Autor features rich, vivid descriptions that immerse readers in its world. The narrative is filled with intriguing mysteries that invite readers to uncover their secrets, while the complex characters come to life, each with their distinct motivations and depth. Although this instalment does not stand alone, it adds another layer of intrigue to the captivating saga, encouraging returning readers to explore the unfolding drama more deeply.
Review by Mary Anne Yarde
The Coffee Pot Book Club
With the aristocracy’s inability to treat the common man with respect and dignity, it is no surprise that the events unfolding in France may spill over into Switzerland, despite its desperate attempts at neutrality.
Valentin has stopped running; he knows who he is and what he must do. However, there are forces that will stop at nothing to prevent him from uncovering the truth behind the unfolding plot.
Can Valentin survive? And what will become of his beloved Switzerland if he does not?
“Volition (Vain & Valour, Volume 3)” by Justan Autor is a captivating instalment that immerses readers in a world where unpredictability reigns supreme. With each turn of the page, unexpected twists and rich character development unfold, inviting the reader to explore the thrilling possibilities that lie ahead. Prepare for a journey filled with suspense, action, and intrigue, where anything can happen, and the stakes have never been higher.
The narrative employs a somewhat omniscient third-person point of view, allowing the reader to glimpse both the characters’ inner thoughts and outer actions. Autor also engages the reader directly, weaving in comments that provide context and foreshadow unfolding events. This approach fosters a sense of intimacy, drawing readers into the heart of the story and inviting them to participate in the emotional journey. However, this closeness can also create a slight detachment from the characters’ immediate experiences, making it challenging to fully immerse oneself in their struggles and triumphs. Furthermore, the narrative’s frequent shifts between timelines and abrupt transitions from one setting to another can leave readers feeling momentarily disoriented, akin to a whirlwind journey through the narrative landscape.
The writing is rich in descriptive language, creating vivid images of people, places, and events. The descriptions often appeal to the reader’s senses of sight, sound, and smell. The dialogue is generally well-crafted, with each character having a distinct voice, although some of it can feel somewhat formal and stilted, reflecting the 19th-century style. Although the writing maintains a generally clear and coherent style, the frequent digressions and asides can occasionally interrupt the smooth flow of the narrative. This tendency to meander may leave some readers feeling disoriented. Additionally, the language is often embellished, which can render it overly ornate and make it challenging to navigate for those who prefer a more straightforward read.
This series resembles a comedy of errors, with even the most sensible characters, especially the main character, coming across as utterly incompetent and ridiculous. Many characters are also portrayed as caricatures, particularly those from poorer backgrounds, which can lead to uncomfortable reading for modern audiences. Is it appropriate to ridicule someone for their weight or to use their lack of education as a source of comedy? However, it is encouraging to see in this volume that the working poor are not solely depicted as a target for mockery. At last, Valentin, who typically looks down on those he views as beneath him, begins to understand how generous the poor can be with their limited resources compared to the wealthy. But he has done a lot of damage to his reputation, and the “common folk” have long memories.
In this novel, Peter/Valentin emerges in a much more favourable light than in the previous two instalments. Although he doesn’t become a true hero, his moments of sobriety reveal a deeper awareness of his actions. When he isn’t drunk or nursing a hangover, he displays a complexity that adds depth to his character. However, there are still instances where he behaves reprehensibly, particularly in his treatment of Ernest, which elicits a strong sense of loathing from the reader. His sense of entitlement often leads to painfully cringeworthy interactions, painting a picture of a man grappling with his flaws. In this narrative, Valentin embodies the essence of an anti-hero—flawed and unlikable yet undeniably human. Despite this, there are tender moments interspersed throughout, where he shows glimpses of vulnerability and empathy. These fleeting instances allow him to resonate with the audience, evoking a rare sympathy that makes the reader reflect on the complexities of his character.
This novel features a vast array of characters, creating a complex tapestry that can sometimes make it challenging to keep track of their identities and motivations. Du Pont emerges as a treacherous villain, with his duplicity evident in every calculated move. He is a cold-blooded antagonist, unafraid to embrace violence and betrayal to achieve his ambitions. In contrast, Bernhard is a powerful and enigmatic figure, operating from the shadows and skilfully pulling strings while amassing vital information. Pier/Otto is resourceful and cunning, driven to desperate measures to protect his family. His unwavering loyalty is commendable; he remains steadfast once he has pledged his allegiance. Adolfus is another antagonist, depicted as manipulative and shrewd, always staying a few steps ahead in the game of deceit. Amidst the tension, Ludwig provides much-needed comic relief with his light-hearted antics and his struggles with a particular clock, yet he consistently demonstrates loyalty to those around him. Corporal Aeschlimann is ambitious but easily swayed, often falling prey to the schemes of others. In stark contrast, Keller stands as a paragon of integrity, with his moral compass guiding him through the murky waters of the story. Matron Edmunda, a beloved character, is portrayed with less ridicule in this book. Her charming mishaps in pronunciation are more endearing than absurd, adding to her overall warmth and relatability. There are many more characters in this novel beyond those mentioned, and each plays a pivotal role in the development of a multifaceted story that unfolds throughout the narrative.
The political landscape during this tumultuous period is intricately depicted, with Switzerland striving to maintain its neutrality. The revolutionary fervour engulfing France poses a significant threat to Switzerland, which is working tirelessly to prevent the chaos of the revolutionary wars from spilling over into its serene and peaceful country. Meanwhile, the plight of French émigrés seeking refuge from the upheaval raises profound concerns among the Swiss populace. Many people are torn between their compassion for those fleeing the turmoil and their fear that providing support could destabilise their own society.
“Volition (Vain & Valour, Volume 3)” by Justan Autor features rich, vivid descriptions that immerse readers in its world. The narrative is filled with intriguing mysteries that invite readers to uncover their secrets, while the complex characters come to life, each with their distinct motivations and depth. Although this instalment does not stand alone, it adds another layer of intrigue to the captivating saga, encouraging returning readers to explore the unfolding drama more deeply.
Review by Mary Anne Yarde
The Coffee Pot Book Club
May 12, 2025
Yet again the author delivers an exquisite volume of adventure, intrigue and romance interlaced with witty humour. As the story develops, the plot becomes deeper, abounding with secret schemes and conspiracies. The elegant language captures the spirit of the novel expertly. The imagery continues to be spectacular. Can't wait to read the future volumes. Highly recommended
Displaying 1 - 2 of 2 reviews