They're back - but in this second book the Fabufestan documentary team is less preoccupied with personal problems and more with across-the-desk interviews, just when we felt we were getting to know them. We do get to know one of their interviewees, Angus McRossie, provincial Minister for Democratic Action. His uncomfortable position trapped between two female control freaks, his "First Minister" and his wife, provides the real drama, relegating the Fabufestans to supporting roles. Whether any of the political shenanigans are based on fact makes enjoyable if groundless speculation.
I waited for the Team to jump into the sordid and dangerous topics of their exposé, but they stay safely in someone's office, even in Europe. A suggested field trip to Thailand, which we all know is a hub of wickedness, never materializes. A disgraced backbencher's gruesome murder in a Muskoka cabin. is related at second or third hand within the Premier's office - admittedly a venue which becomes increasingly more sinister. The interviews, which productively inform both us and the Fabufestans, suggest underlying tensions and emotions.
McRossie is an intriguing character (yes, I have an actor in mind should this series make it to TV), and it is comforting to note the continuing presence of the intrepid Chief Superintendent Willie Flack of the RCMP.
(reviewed 7 days after purchase)