Ok, so on a second read through, I realise I probably sold this book a little short. This happens, the mood and situation of the reader at the time of reading is relevant. There is a sharp-edged, flinty little tale here. Strong characters and a well-realised world in which to tell stories. This was strong but not outstanding, imo. Hence my review score. The denouement was also a little more charitable to organised religion than I would be but that's a personal gripe. Can recommend and I will probably work through the rest of the omnibus edition I have as a filler between other books.