The Missing Link

"The Missing Link" by Edward Dyson is a novel that tells the tale of Nicholas Crips, also known as "Nickie the Kid," a clever trickster maneuvering through life with charisma and a knack for schemes. From peddling questionable remedies to impersonating a mythical creature in a traveling spectacle, Nickie constantly finds himself in laughable predicaments. The story begins by introducing Nickie as a smooth-talking character scraping by on city streets. He consorts with women, and avoids physical work. He has funny encounters, like a chaotic interaction with a pair of farmers, during which his persuasive powers amid his petty schemes are showcased. The peak of his exploits involves transforming himself into the "Missing Link" for a sideshow gig. Setting the stage for a riotous investigation into identity, dishonesty, and life's fickle, ever-changing course.