Fantasy Books

Book SynopsisDeep in the shadows under the Paris Opera House resides Erik the Phantom, mysteriously enduring through the decades as the mastermind behind a strange and secret agency. A revolving door of female agents are charged by wealthy Parisians and the French Government to investigate crimes and misdemeanours they would prefer to keep out of the public eye. The toxic underbelly of Paris is exposed by Erik's tenacious women operatives as they confront horror and corruption throughout the city. But it is one dreadful murder during the 1910 Great Flood of Paris that brings Irene Adler, Kate Reed and others together for a final, deadly confrontation.Trade Review“A fun caper, with touches of the supernatural and horror, full of interesting and enjoyable characters” - Adventures In Poor Taste“An outlandish entertainment that incorporates references from film, literature, and real life; sending the reader scurrying to the internet to find out who belongs in which category. The cornucopia of characters amusingly defies the conventional. Whimsical and witty, Angels of Music, published by Titan Books, pleasantly boggles the mind.” - Diabolique Magazine“There’s no problem using this as a starting point for entering the world of Kim Newman...He deserves a genre all his own.” - Impedimenta Magazine“A fascinating and fantastical underworld” - Barnes & Noble sci fi blog “A veritable tour de force of imagination and storytelling” - Rising Shadow“Angels of Music is more than a game of Spot the Reference; it’s also a rousing collection of genre fiction.” BlogCritics

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Book SynopsisA week after her mother found her sleeping on the ceiling, Amy Thomsett is delivered to her new school, Drearcliff Grange in Somerset. Although it looks like a regular boarding school, Amy learns that Drearcliff girls are special, the daughters of criminal masterminds, outlaw scientists and master magicians. Several of the pupils also have special gifts like Amy's, and when one of the girls in her dormitory is abducted by a mysterious group in black hoods, Amy forms a secret, superpowered society called the Moth Club to rescue their friend. They soon discover that the Hooded Conspiracy runs through the school, and it's up to the Moth Club to get to the heart of it.Trade Review“A marvel...Newman is a masterful wordsmith...intoxicating” - Ravenous Monster"If you’re looking for something to take your mind off the January blues, I’d recommend giving Kim Newman a run for your money." - Project Fandom“Filled with entertaining characters and a plot that will keep you on the edge of your seat." - Geek Hard“Newman did an amazing job of crafting a world of super powers, and then showing readers that world through the eyes of a shy, and some what eccentric, young girl.” - Atomic Moo“By turns spooky, creepy, and humorous” - Count Gore “Harry Potter meets Professor Xavier’s School for Gifted Youngsters, as told by Anne Radcliffe” - The Blood Shed"We love spooky boarding school stories, and the new novel from Newman (the Anno Dracula series) delivers a doozy." - Barnes & Noble"The school he has created may cause a few nightmares for sensitive readers, because some of the happenings are fascinatingly dark and twisted (there's something gorgeously macabre about these happenings)." - Rising Shadow"For fans of Lovecraft, Harry Potter and the Ransom Riggs books, Drearcliff Grange is the girl’s boarding school equivalent of combining Hogwarts with the Miskatonic University and then having Miss Peregrine teach the courses. I cannot express how sad I was when the book was over and I had to go back to regular life.' - Fangirl Nation

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Book SynopsisMagpie pursues his quest for his parent's identity with burning urgency - while also discovering another hidden talent and being trained by the King's Own Herald as an undercover agent for Valdemar. Magpie and his friends, Lena and Bear, must face their demons and find their true strength as they seek to become full Heralds, Bards, and Healers of Valdemar.

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Book SynopsisAfter escaping from the massive airship known as Castle Wulfenbach, Agatha falls in with a travelling troupe of performers, where she begins training under Zeetha, swordmistress and princess of the lost city of Skifander. With Wulfenbach on her trail, it's going to take more than a spark of Mad Science for Agatha to traverse the treacherous wasteland of war-torn Europa.

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Book SynopsisThe city of Ro Canarn burns. With their father's blood fresh upon the headsman's sword, Lord Bromvy and Lady Bronwyn, the last scions of the house of Canarn, face fugitive exile or death. In the court of Ro Tiris, men fear to speak their minds. The Army of the Red marches upon the North. Strange accidents befall those who dare question the King's new advisors. Those foolish enough to speak their names call them the Seven Sisters: witches of the fire god; each as beautiful and as dangerous as a flame. And, called from the long ages of deep time by war and sacrifice, the children of a dead god are waking with a pitiless cry. All that was dead will rise. All that now lives will fall...Trade ReviewMartin meets Lovecraft... Fun and refreshingly direct' * SciFiNow *Interesting and enticing, deftly sidesteps fantasy cliche and thrusts you towards the next instalment * SFX *The Black Guard has been described as "Martin meets Lovecraft", and doesn't disappoint on either count. With bleak personal stories of loss and hardship, wars between rival nations and a plot to resurrect a dead god, the novel is packed with action and intrigue, 7/10' * Fantasy Faction *

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Book SynopsisUlfar and his highborn cousin Geiri have one last stop on their long journey - but the Viking town of Stenvik is filled with dangerous men: a 'brutal, bloody book' (MARK LAWRENCE on Goodreads), a riveting adventure of clashing Viking powers.Ulfar Thormodsson was tasked with taking his highborn cousin Geiri on a tour of the kingdom, punishment for after disgracing his father. After two bitterly uncomfortable years on the road, he just wants to go home.'Highly recommended' (The Eloquent Page) 'powerful epic fantasy series crammed full with Vikings' 'Historical Novel SocietyBut the last stop, the walled town of Stenvik, is different: it contains the mysterious blacksmith Audun, who just wants to be left alone, and the beautiful Lilja, who immediately captures Ulfar's heart - but Stenvik is also home to some very deadly men, including Lilja's brutal husband, who could break Ulfar in an instant.And Stenvik is about to become the battleground in deadly war between the old gods and the new: King Olav is bringing the White Christ to the masses at point of sword and edge of blade - while a Viking horde led by a mysterious woman is sailing from the north.Ulfar and Audun are about to learn that their enemies are not all outside the walls - and blood will wash the land . . .Trade ReviewThere's more to Vikings than beards, blood, and axes - Snorri Kristjansson gives you the whole package. * Mark Lawrence, bestselling author of Prince of Fools *[A] rousing Viking-themed historical fantasy . . . Kristjansson's sprawling cast of colorful characters and eye for historical detail lend this story gratifying verisimilitude * Publishers Weekly *Very engaging - very vibrant and realistic . . . an action-filled book with a heart-stopping plot and adrenalin-fuelled battle scenes. 9.8/10 * Fantasy-Faction *The world feels real and lived in . . . Kristjansson's humour is woven throughout the book in subtle, yet fantastic ways . . . just about everything you'd want in an epic fantasy novel. an almost unforgettable Viking saga . . . Kristjansson is a force in the genre to be reckoned with. * Bookworm Blues *A debut novel [that] has blown me away. The writing is so self-assured, I was gripped from beginning to end. I'm a little bit in awe, but rest assured I'll be keeping an eye out for this author's next novel.Highly recommended * The Eloquent Page *Very much in the vein of David Gemmell, it's a Viking fantasy with a style not unlike Joe Abercrombie. The prose is quick, accomplished and action-packed. The actual action sequences here are literally breath-taking . . . Swords of Good Men would make a brilliant action film * Wilders Book Review *Fans of Gemmell will devour Kristjansson's books * Spec on Spec Fiction *The characters are so realistic and captivating - recommend it to anyone who likes to read a good Viking story. * Night Owl *Kristjansson's writing was very similar to Nathan Hawke's and David Gemmell's - there is no fluff. But, more like Hawke than Gemmell, Kristjansson writes the violence with gory detail, making the action very fun to read - the kind of stuff you'd see on History's new show, Vikings * A Bitter Draft *A cracking yarn, (one that would make a great movie), filled with enough to satisfy any fan of Vikings and their mythology. The battle scenes are a beauty to read; chaotic, frenetic, gory, and not always with the expected outcome, they should appeal to fans of heroic fantasy . . . leaves the reader hungry for more * Starburst *Sets a scorching pace, is packed with breathtaking action scenes, throws some unexpected twists in there and ends with a spectacular battle and an ending I didn't see coming. A strong debut that will please fans of Vikings, mythology, strategy and action * Draumr Kópa *He keeps the action pretty tight, gruesome and bloody . . . great characterization and an interesting world . . . Snorri Kristjansson has pulled off a great feat with his writing * The Book Plank *Kristjansson's characterisation is outstanding. If you like David Gemmell, you'll also like Kristjansson . . . He's not scared of a body count, and he's not afraid of a good old-fashioned cliff-hanger. His characterisation and world-building are hard to fault, and the clash of Gods within the novel is captivating * Zoe Markham *If you like historical fiction and if you LOVE your battles and blood - may the ending surprise you as much as it did me * Fantasy Guide *A raucous and gripping adventure * ZVAB.com *There are plenty of excellently realised and memorable characters here. There are warriors and witches and where there are warriors and witches, there will be warfare. There are axes, broadswords and narrow escapes. Swords of Good Men is just about everything you could possibly want and then some, from a novel about the Vikings . . . this IS different. It's powerful, wonderfully imagined and presented and I've got to admit; it feels like the real thing * Speesh Reads *A decent, bloody, action-filled fictional Viking story. It has plenty of interesting elements: Old Gods and superstition, the White Christ and black magic, berserkers and assassins,raiders and outlaws, healers and poisoners, blood and longships . . . you get the picture * The Half-Strung Harp *A brilliant, fast-paced début . . . Snorri Kristjansson brings something amazing to the tapestry of modern fantasy fiction - the events, characters and world will stay with you whenever you're not reading. A perfect book to pick up if all your fantasy fiction reads have started to feel like variations of the same book. * Spec On Spec Fic *An impressive debut and an engrossing tale that really shouldn't be missed. Recommended. * Speculative Book Review *A blood great Viking tale. Snorri manages to construct an amazing fantasy novel which sets up a hopefully long series. Not for those afraid of blood (or Christians). * Pip’s Book Reviews *A fabulous debut and a gripping read, which I enjoyed so much I found myself putting off reading the final pages because I didn't want it to end. More please! * Fantastical Librarian *A blistering debut novel. The Valhalla Saga quickly had me hooked . . . the mix of Viking lore, war and sorcery very appealing. * Geek Planet Online *A terrific novel. If I had to sum it up in one word, that word would be "visceral". Kristjansson doesn't pad his book with fluff. In less than 300 pages, he manages to pack more story in than most writers. The battle scenes are choreographed with an eye to detail while still keeping the big picture in focus. You can hear the clang of iron on shield and the screams of the dying, feel the grip of the weapon slick with blood, smell the gore and offal, and experience the fear and betrayal. * Adventures Fantastic *There is a lot of politics, gore, religious debate, love, and much more. A complex and page-turner of a plot. It's brutal and bloody and gritty! It rules! If you like action, Vikings, a bit of blood, a slight spot of magic and complex plots, then get a hold of this. * Book Geek Says *'A blistering debut novel ... the mix of Viking lore, war and sorcery very appealing' Geek Planet Online. * Geek Planet Online *'A fabulous debut and a gripping read ... I didn't want it to end' Fantastical Librarian. * Fantastical Librarian *'A very interesting and exciting story that was hard to put down. 5 stars!' Night Owl Sci-Fi. * Night Owl Sci-Fi *'An action-filled book with a heart stopping plot and adrenaline fuelled battle scenes. 10 stars' Fantasy Faction. * Fantasy Faction *'An impressive debut and an engrossing tale that really shouldn't be missed' Speculative Book Review. * Speculative Book Review *'It's something new both stylistically and subject-wise (fantasy-lite Vikings written by one of their descendants), and certainly if your fantasy reading is starting to feel a bit samey you should give this one a go' Mark Lawrence, author of Prince of Thorns. * Mark Lawrence *

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Book SynopsisIn this epic new entry to The Valhalla Saga, blood will be spilled, bonds will be tested and long-buried secrets will be revealed . . . Ulfar Thormodsson and Audun Arngrimsson survived the battle for Stenvik, although at huge cost. They have suffered much worse than heartbreak: they have lost the very thing that made them human. Their mortality. While Ulfar heads home, looking for the place where he thinks he will be safe, Audun runs south. But both men are about to discover that they cannot run away from themselves. King Olav has left the conquered town of Stenvik in the hands of his lieutenant so he can journey north, following Valgard in the search for the source of the Vikings' power. And all the while older beings watch and wait, biding their time. There are secrets yet to be discovered . . . 'Fans of David Gemmell's work should feel right at home with this one' Starburst Magazine Trade ReviewA frenetically fast fantasy novel ... which due to its originality easily rises above the crowd * Upcoming4me *Fans of David Gemmell's work should feel right at home with this one * Starburst Magazine *With Blood Will Follow Snorri Kristjansson has really outdone himself . . . Bring on the next, I am hooked * Book Plank *Kristjansson delivers another gripping read, proving he knows how to weave a tale that will enthrall his readers * A Fantastical Librarian *A perfect middle book for a trilogy . . . These books are really rather spiffing and do indeed make Vikings seem like real men and not just a part of history that you learn about in school * Book Geek Says *

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Book SynopsisThe epic conclusion to The Valhalla Saga, perfect for fans of Vikings and The Last Kingdom.Reunited, Audun and Ulfar have a new sense of purpose: to ensure that the North remains in the hands of those who hold with the old gods. To do this, they must defeat the people who seek to destroy all they have ever known with the new White Christ. But these are powerful enemies and if they have any chance of victory, they must find equally powerful allies. In Trondheim, King Olav, self-appointed champion of the White Christ, finds that keeping the peace is a much harder test of his faith than winning the war. With his garrison halved and local chieftains at his table who wish him nothing but ill, the king must decide how and where to spread the word of his god. And in the North, touched by the trickster god, something old, malevolent and very, very angry stirs . . .'Fans of David Gemmell's work should feel right at home with this one' Starburst Magazine Trade ReviewThere's more to Vikings than beards, blood, and axes - Snorri Kristjansson gives you the whole package * Mark Lawrence, bestselling author of Red Sister *Fans of David Gemmell's work should feel right at home with this one * Starburst Magazine *Path of Gods provides a worthy final stop filled with heart-warming revels and blood curdling showdowns . . . If you haven't done it by now, do yourself a favour and get the entire trilogy - it's truly unique * Upcoming4me *It's fun, and this book is a mix of fiction and mythology. A great mix that works * Books For Life *as awesome as the other two, but if possible, even more epic * Book Geek Says *The finisher the series deserved . . . The Valhalla Saga has definitely marked Snorri Kristjansson as an author to watch * The Book Plank *A frenetically fast fantasy novel ... which due to its originality easily rises above the crowd * Upcoming4me on Blood Will Follow *Very much in the vein of David Gemmell, it's a Viking fantasy with a style not unlike Joe Abercrombie. The prose is quick, accomplished and action-packed. The actual action sequences here are literally breath-taking . . . Swords of Good Men would make a brilliant action film * Wilders Book Review *Fans of Gemmell will devour Kristjansson's books * Spec on Spec Fiction *

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Book SynopsisThe second in the fast-and-furious fantasy adventure THE LEGENDS OF THE ÄLFAR: the worlds of the dark elves and the dwarves collide in what Malazan Empire calls 'Tolkien with a dash of Gemmell and a sprinkling of George R.R. Martin'.The Älfar, the enemies of the dwarves, control the darkest magics, but even their power has its limits. To save their own people, they must enter into an unwinnable war. Sinthoras and Caphalor, two very different Älfar, watch as their plans come to fruition: the hidden land - the home of the dwarves - has fallen to their army of trolls, barbarians and Älfar, and now the lands of the hated elves are within their grasp. But the alliance begins to crumble as greed triumphs over obedience. And Sinthoras and Caphalor face another threat: an enemy from the empire of the Älfar, thought to be defeated, has resurfaced, and while their best warriors fight in the hidden land, the Älfar homeland lies almost defenceless . . .This edition contains bonus material!Devastating Hate is the sequel to Righteous Fury and the second book in bestselling author Markus Heitz' The Legends of the Älfar series.Trade ReviewDriven by unrelenting action, [the book] springs to life through the vivid, vigorous writing * Kirkus on the Legends of the Alfar *Tolkien with a dash of Gemmell and a sprinkling of George R.R. Martin * Malazan Empire on Markus Heitz *The prose is sharp, the action sequences bloody and all in this has been a real joy to read. Throw into the mix some cracking double-dealing, some political machinations and all in this series has been a pure joy from start to finish and definitely one I'd recommend to other fantasy fans * Falcata Times *There is adventure, fighting, death, one truly gruesome act and a people going to war. I enjoyed this book and I want more about the Älfar. Because at the end, stuff is going down * Books for Life *'Heitz keeps on delivering ... I would recommend Righteous Fury to everyone looking for exciting Tolkien-inspired fantasy' Upcoming4me. * Upcoming4me on the Legends of the Alfar *Tolkien with a dash of Gemmell and a sprinkling of George R.R. Martin * Malazan Empire on Markus Heitz *Driven by unrelenting action, [the book] springs to life through the vivid, vigorous writing * Kirkus on the Legends of the Alfar *A Tolkienesque fantasy adventure novel needs a solid villain for the readers to loathe, and in Markus Heitz's Righteous Fury, we find a quite impressive one . . . If your bookshelf is already home to Tolkien, Martin, and company, Righteous Fury will find a comfortable spot to fit in * Booklist on Righteous Fury *The prose is sharp, the action sequences bloody and all in this has been a real joy to read. Throw into the mix some cracking double-dealing, some political machinations and all in this series has been a pure joy from start to finish and definitely one I'd recommend to other fantasy fans * Falcata Times on the Legends of the Alfar *There is adventure, fighting, death, one truly gruesome act and a people going to war. I enjoyed this book and I want more about the Älfar. Because at the end, stuff is going down * Books for Life on the Legends of the Alfar *A welcome return to the world of Markus Heitz's Dwarves series * Dominish on the Legends of the Alfar *

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Book Synopsis The Three Musketeers meets Joe Abercrombie via Mark Lawrence: 'Guaranteed to increase household swashbuckling by 100%,' says Library Journal The Greatcoats are travelling magistrates bringing justice to all . . . or at least they were, before they watched the Dukes impale their King's head on a spike. Now the land's heroes are reviled as traitors, their Greatcoats in tatters.Facio, Kest and Brasti have been reduced to working as mercenaries, but when they find their employer dead - and are forced to watch as the killer plants evidence framing them for the murder - they realise things are about to get even worse.For the royal conspiracy that began with overthrowing an idealistic young king is spreading to Rijou, the most corrupt city in the land, and the life of a young girl hangs in the balance. When every noble is a tyrant and every knight is a thug, the only thing you can really trust is a traitor's blade. Trade ReviewOne hell of a good book * Conn Iggulden *Fantastic from the first sentence to the last. Combining old-school swashbuckling action with contemporary characters and a good dose of grit, these books are the rarest of things, great rollicking fun combined with an emotional punch . . . Sebastien, write faster! * John Gwynne, Author of the Faithful and the Fallen *An energetic, fun adventure that puts the "musk" back in "musketeer." Guaranteed to increase household swashbuckling by 100%. * Library Journal *Each bloody encounter [is] described with meticulous detail . . . Traitor's Blade is the entertaining story of how the greatcoats rose and fell, and how they could rise again * SFX *With a tip of his hat at Alexandre Dumas, Sebastien de Castell make a fine first impression in this entertaining debut . . . Traitor's Blade is a bunch of fun from one cover to the other * Tor.com *It made me laugh out loud and it made me shed an occasional tear. It dragged me right in to the world of Tristia. Traitor's Blade is a great book and I'm already looking forward to reading the next in the series * Fantasy Faction *High energy, highly unique, swashbuckling-cop-epic-noir story. Buy it. BUY IT NOW. * Sam Sykes, author of The City Stained Red *Don't hesitate to buy this if you love a great hero and story . . . What a voice! What story-telling brio! If you love Dumas, or Game of Thrones or The False Prince this is the swashbuckling fantasy for you. * Amanda Craig, author of Hearts And Minds *[An] engaging swashbuckling romp driven by elaborate swordplay and Aaron Sorkin-esque speechifying * Starburst Magazine *Traitor's Blade provides swashbuckling fan service, and has fun along the way, but it also packs a sneaky emotional punch as well. Dumas would be proud. * Pornokitsch * If you love adventure, fantasy history, sword fights, nobility, and cutting and dark humor, Traitor's Blade should be right up your alley * Fanboy Comics *A page turner in the true sense of the phrase . . . Witty, romantic and atmospheric in the way of great adventure stories, the Greatcoats series looks set to be a thoroughly enjoyable one * British Fantasy Society *Sebastien De Castell has firmly planted his name on my radar as one of the best debut Fantasy authors this year ... I enjoyed Traitor's Blade immensely and can't wait for the next book and whatever the author comes up with in the future. Certainly a book that I highly recommend, to anyone! * Draumr Kopa Blog *Traitor's Blade may well end up going down as one of the strongest first fantasy novels of recent times - it's an absolute stunner that you can't afford to miss. * The Founding Fields *Every so often, a debut novel comes along that knocks your expectations out of the park. Scott Lynch's The Lies of Locke Lamora is one of those novels. Peter V. Brett's The Painted Man is another. Sebastien de Castell's Traitor's Blade needs to be added to that list. I loved this * Civilian Reader *Brilliantly conceived, cleverly executed and a whole bucket of fun, this will be one of the most entertaining novels you read this year * Liz Loves Books *I loved loved loved Traitor's Blade. I would recommend it to everyone. Seriously, this is one excellent and remarkably entertaining book! Read it * Bibliosanctum *Traitor's Blade is not to be missed. It might even be the best début of 2014. The mesmerising plot and imaginative world, not to mention the awesome characters, will entertain even the most discerning of readers. * Speculating on SpecFic. *One of the best debut novels I've had the pleasure of reading . . . Read this! You'll love it * Drunken Dragon Reviews *Pretty darn awesome * Book Geek Says *The Three Musketers meets Game of Thrones, Traitor's Blade is the most delightful fun . . . marks the perfect start to a swashbuckling adventure series . . . A thoughtful book [that will] remind you that there are a lot of things in this world worth fighting for * fantasy-smorgasbord *A terrific read. I enjoyed reading it very, very much. A must read! * The Book Plank *Packed with humour, emotion and great character camaraderie . . . Jo Fletcher Books have given the genre a real treat. I want to join the Greatcoats * Parmenion Books *I was hooked from page 3 . . . The humor, the swashbuckling, the humor WHILE swashbuckling . . . If you're an action oriented reader like I am this will tickle you pink. 5 Stars * Not Yet Read *This is a great book from an equally great writer . . . As long as de Castell keeps writing these books, I will keep reading them * Utter Biblio *Traitor's Blade is a very polished debut with a solid plot, great characters, a lovely world, and most importantly, it exudes a sense of fun that is infectious ... Traitor's Blade comes highly recommended * A Fantastical Librarian *I've rarely enjoyed swordplay and fight scenes in a book as much as I enjoyed these . . . Sebastien de Castell's offering up one that's most certainly worth your time * Over the Effing Rainbow *An excellent read [with] powerful narrative and many twists and turns . . . takes its place in my top 25 of the year to date * Fantasy Book Critic *Had me enthralled, and as I started to write my review I found myself reading huge chunks of it over again. Yep, this is my kind of book * And then I read a Book *Fact is this book is just fun. The witty banter alone makes it worth reading. * Fantasy Review Barn *I laughed and smiled, and felt the tension, and the emotional struggles the characters faced. I let go of myself and really sank into one intensely amazing, incredibly well realized world * Bookworm Blues *Traitor's Blade is a constant blur of movement and action . . . Full of wit, intrigue, action and violence, it's a wonderful introduction to a new fantasy world and the people that inhabit it. And, from what we see on our first visit, there are plenty of reasons to come back for more * Reader Dad *Traitor's Blade is a compelling read. The story is complex and with plenty of threads ... The fight scenes are detailed and you almost feel as if you are there, dodging the blades. I really enjoyed this book * Dragons and Fairy Dust *De Castell has produced a wonderfully inventive, thoroughly entertaining story and a fascinating world in which to set it * Nerds of A Feather *Hooked me from the get-go with mystery and the promise of a new fantasy world. It made me laugh, it made me cry, it made me angry, and it made me so incredibly frustrated - but in a good way! It had so many twists and turns I couldn't even begin to guess what would happen, and I was glued to the book until I found out * Panda Cat Reads *An amazing debut and one of my favourite books of the year. If the quality of the series continues this might just be one of my all-time favorites * Speculative Book Review *Battles with evil dukes, vicious and cruel aristocratic ladies and politics to rival anything GRRM has conceived, this truly is an epic tale * Seans Blog Now *This book is truly brilliant. * Junipers Jungle *There is plenty of action and intrigue to satisfy all, political maneuvering is matched by deeds of great heroism, and Falcio's story will definitely leave the reader wanting more. * SF Book *I just read the second book in Scott Lynch's Gentleman Bastard series and I felt like this book contained almost everything that was fun in Red Seas Under Red Skies but cut out all of the slow stuff. They both had a wonderful adventurous feel but this was far tighter, sleeker and more exciting and was a complete and entire book * A Reading Machine *Falcio's story will definitely leave the reader wanting more. * SF Book Reviews *Traitor's Blade delivers on many levels. It was fun, action-packed, had some great characters, and a stellar ending that leaves the reader craving more. * A Bitter Draft *'The Three Musketeers meets Game of Thrones, Traitor's Blade is the most delightful fun ... [should] be high up on anyone's list of 2014 Fantasy books' fantasy-smorgasbord. * smorgasbord *'Traitor's Blade is a very polished debut with a solid plot, great characters, a lovely world, and most importantly, it exudes a sense of fun that is infectious ... [it] comes highly recommended' A Fantastical Librarian. * A Fantastical Librarian *'An excellent read [with] powerful narrative and many twists and turns ... Traitor's Blade is the first 'new' fantasy of 2014 that met and even exceeded my expectations' Fantasy Book Critic. * Fantasy Book Critic *'Brilliantly conceived, cleverly executed and a whole bucket of fun, this will be one of the most entertaining novels you read this year' Liz Loves books. * Liz Loves books *'An all-round brilliant fantasy debut, and one of the best I've read in a decade ... Every so often, a debut novel comes along that knocks your expectations out of the park. Scott Lynch's The Lies of Locke Lamora is one of those novels. Peter V. Brett's The Painted Man is another. Sebastien de Castell's Traitor's Blade needs to be added to that list. I loved this' Civilian Reader. * Civilian Reader *'Traitor's Blade is something new in the fantasy genre ... Left me thinking about it for days afterwards, the style, the plot, the characters, and most of all wishing for the next book in the series ... I want to join the Greatcoats!' Parmenionbooks. * Parmenionbooks *'If this isn't your most anticipated debut novel of 2014, then you're doing it wrong. Traitor's Blade may well end up going down as one of the strongest first fantasy novels of recent times - it's an absolute stunner that you can't afford to miss' The Founding Fields. * Founding Fields *'With a tip of his hat to Alexandre Dumas, Sebastien de Castell makes a fine first impression in this entertaining debut ... Traitor's Blade is a bunch of fun from one cover to the other' Tor.com. * Tor.com *

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Book SynopsisThe Greatcoats have found the heir to the throne . . . but now they must keep her alive, against all the odds.'These books are just joyous - first-rate fiction, first rate adventure, first rate full stop.' Conn Iggulden, author of The Golden Age seriesThe Greatcoats have found the heir to the throne . . . but now they must keep her alive, against all the odds.Falcio Val Mond has completed the final task given to him by the late King Paelis: he has found the King's Charoites (well, one at least). But his task isn't over, and now he, Kest and Brasti must protect the girl from those her want her dead.'Sebastien, write faster!' John Gwynne, author of the award-winning series The Faithful and the FallenThat would be simple enough, if it weren't for the renegade Knights and legendary Dashini assassins, getting in their way, not to mention the Dukes, who are desperate to hold on to their power at any cost, or Trin, the merciless daughter of the ruthless Duke of Rijou and the cruel Duchess of Hervor, who is determined to be Queen of Tristia. Of course, the fact that the heir to the throne is thirteen years old doesn't help, nor the fact that every day brings Falcio closer to dying from the poison running through his veins.And then there is the Greatcoat's Lament . . . .Trade ReviewAn energetic, fun adventure that puts the "musk" back in "musketeer." Guaranteed to increase household swashbuckling by 100%. * Library Journal *Don't hesitate to buy this if you love a great hero and story . . . What a voice! What story-telling brio! If you love Dumas, or Game of Thrones or The False Prince this is the swashbuckling fantasy for you. * Amanda Craig, author of Hearts And Minds *One hell of a good book * Conn Iggulden *Fantastic from the first sentence to the last. Combining old-school swashbuckling action with contemporary characters and a good dose of grit, these books are the rarest of things, great rollicking fun combined with an emotional punch . . . Sebastien, write faster! * John Gwynne, Author of the Faithful and the Fallen *High energy, highly unique, swashbuckling-cop-epic-noir story. Buy it. BUY IT NOW. * Sam Sykes, author of The City Stained Red * Knight's Shadow is an excellent and engaging story, one of the best books I've read in a long time. 10/10 * Fantasy-Faction *Excels at telling a fun, exciting adventure. . . Knight's Shadow is a strong tale in its own right * Fanboy Comics *It's easy to love de Castell's work. Two books in and "Greatcoats" still remains approachable and readable fantasy at its finest * Upcoming4.me *Sebastien De Castell manages to wring every heart wrenching moment and ounce of anticipation from every scene, his fight scenes contain dark humour, explosive action and a great awareness of the art of sword fighting, all of which has you hanging on the edge of every page. . . . This really is an exceptional book and series * Parmenion Books *Everything that de Castell did well in the first book - the action, the adventure, the high drama, the zinging character interaction and dialogue - is taken to a fresh level here . . . Knight's Shadow raises its own bar . . . This story is bigger, darker and full of more violence than its predecessor * Over the Effing Rainbow *Greatcoats is now up there on my list of favorite fantasy series * Bibliosanctum *A breathless rollercoaster of a ride that will engage, fascinate and compel the reader ever onwards, there is a beauty to the tale that gets right to the heart of you . . . this is exactly how it should be done * Liz Loves Books *The fantastic dialogue, the humor, the twists and the exhilarating action all make this a worthy sequel to Traitor's Blade * Draumr Kopa Blog *I would still very much recommend the series to anyone looking for a well-written fantasy series * Civilian Reader *Action, drama, betrayals, I do look forward to reading more * Books For Life *One of the best book's you'll read this year, coming highly recommended. 9.5/10 * The Fictional Hangout *The best book I have read this year . . . I think everyone who enjoys a good story of adventure should pick up their copies of Traitor's Blade and Knight's Shadow first chance they get! * Arched Doorway *This ends on a satisfying conclusion that leaves room for the story to continue * Starburst Magazine *It was what I was hoping for and I was not disappointed! * Not Yet Read *Truly is a must-read book . . . the kind of historical fantasy that makes everything else pale in comparison * Beauty in Ruins *This second book has cemented my love for the series . . . It was so invigorating to go on this dangerous, and sometimes painful, but ultimately satisfying adventure with Falcio, Kest, Brasti and the rest of the Greatcoats. This is a series I recommend everyone to read! * Bookish Wimsy *I loved the story, I loved the style, the book just kept on giving and never lets you down. It's a perfect fantasy story * Book Geek Says *This book brought me to tears on numerous occasions, I felt so deeply involved with the plot and the characters . . . I don't think I'll ever tire of this series * Juniper's Jungle *Knights Shadow is a perfect book if you love engaging and hilarious characters, amazingly well sculpted fight scenes and that rush of excitement that only comes with being truly and utterly swept away by a writer of incredible talent * A Reading Machine *Better than its predecessor, Knight's Shadow is a wonderful sequel, managing to keep the tone of the original intact while at the same time expanding the themes that made it so good. The Greatcoats series is thriving, and I look forward to the next installment * Sean's Blog Now *A very entertaining series * Fantasy Review Barn *Resonates long after you close the book * Jennifer Melzer *The story was so gripping . . . I couldn't tear my eyes away. Recommended 100% * The Endless Reading List * Knight's Shadow is just amazing. The Greatcoats series with Traitor's Blade and Knight's Shadow should be on every reading list. Period. * The Book Plank * De Castell's superb writing and pacing results in a headlong rush of excitement to the very last page . . . The twists and turns make "Knight's Shadow" a page-turner in the truest, most satisfactory sense of the term * NewsOK *

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Book Synopsis'High energy, highly unique, swashbuckling-cop-epic-noir story. Buy it. BUY IT NOW' Sam SykesThe Greatcoats are back - and this time it's personal.How do you kill a Saint? Falcio, Brasti and Kest are about to find out, as someone is doing just that, and they've started with a friend.The Dukes were already looking for ways to weasel out of their promise to put Aline on her father's throne - but with Saints turning up dead, and Church Inquistitors pushing for control - rumours are spreading that the Gods themselves oppose her ascension.The only way Falcio can stop the country turning into a vicious theocracy is to find and stop the Saint-killer - but his only clue is the iron mask encasing the head of the Saint of Mercy, which prevents her from speaking. And even if he can find the murderer, he will still have to face them in battle - and this may be a duel that no swordsman, no matter how skilled, can win.Trade ReviewCombining old-school swashbuckling action with contemporary characters and a good dose of grit, these books are the rarest of things, great rollicking fun combined with an emotional punch . . . Sebastien, write faster! * John Gwynne, author of The Faithless and the Fallen *This is a one in a million series. Each book is fantastic yet manages to be better than the last and with Saint's Blood Castell takes the characters and readers into some hugely unexpected and exciting places with the consummate precision and skill of a master dueller * Fantasy Faction *Sebastien de Castell exhibits his finest form yet in Saint's Blood . . . If you enjoy fast-paced, edge-of-your-seat adventure and compelling, believable characters battling overwhelming odds yet never giving in, you can't beat the Greatcoats series. To read them is to love them * The Oklahoman *It's like The Three Musketeers with magic. On steroids. But for all of the wild adventuring, peril and spectacle, there is a real heart emerging from beneath it all * Over the Effing Rainbow *Sebastien de Castell keeps delivering amazing books, displaying his talent for weaving a web of humour, tension, ingenious plots and fantastic characters . . . An exhilarating journey that took me at breakneck speed through a whole array of emotions * Draumr Kopa *Wildly entertaining and thoroughly intense, Saint's Blood is the kind of book that makes you wish all epic heroic fantasy can be this awesome * Bibliosanctum *Huge amounts of adventurous fun, witty and incisive dialogue, a set of characters to die for and layer upon layer of fantastic world building - with laugh out loud moments interspersed with dark and dastardly doings. Plus swordfights. What more could you ask * Liz Loves Books *From the first line we remember how funny the writing is in this series as we are immersed back into the world of the Greatcoats, their bone-plated attire and their dueling swords. . . De Castell retains that wonderful, witty delivery that made the first two books in the series such a success' * British Fantasy Society *A perfect and fresh addition to the Epic Fantasy genre, I loved every bit of it . . . The bottom-line is: Read Saint's Blood * The Book Plank *Don't hesitate to buy this if you love a great hero and story . . . What a voice! What story-telling brio! If you love Dumas, or Game of Thrones or The False Prince this is the swashbuckling fantasy for you. * Amanda Craig, author of Hearts And Minds *One hell of a good book * Conn Iggulden *High energy, highly unique, swashbuckling-cop-epic-noir story. Buy it. BUY IT NOW. * Sam Sykes, author of The City Stained Red *Highly entertaining . . . I loved everything about this book * Smorgasbord Fantasia *One of my all time favourite fantasy series . . . simply stunning' * Parmenion books *The character growth is stunning, the advancement of themes indescribable, and the escalation of tension to unimaginable heights breathtaking. I have no idea how de Castell can possibly top this, but you can be assured I'll be there to watch him try * Speculative Herald *Swept me along and I did not want to put it down * Blodeuedd *Sebastien de Castell keeps delivering amazing books, displaying his talent for weaving a web of humour, tension, ingenious plots and fantastic characters * DraumrKopa *The Greatcoats series is definitely one of my favorite Fantasy reads, and Saint's Blood was an amazing installment. Exciting, fast-paced, and full of major twists - the finale to this series is absolutely my most anticipated book now! * Bookish Whimsy *There's so much about this book to love . . . If you like swashbuckling fantasy, this is the story for you * Throw this Book at Me *The writing is clever and exquisite, each character voice unique and vibrant, and the relationships between the core characters is absolutely brilliant * Jennifer Melzer *This book, and series, is so close to perfection in my eyes . . . This book broke me. This book killed me. This book, then, resurrected me and gave me life. Then, I read the bonus content and this book ripped my f****** heart out, and now is going to make me wait a year to maybe get it back * Mel To The Any *

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Book SynopsisFor fans of The Night Circus, comes a sweeping and captivating debut novel about a young librarian who discovers that his family labours under a terrible curse.Simon Watson lives alone on the Long Island Sound. On a day in late June, Simon receives a mysterious book connected to his family. The book tells the story of two doomed lovers, two hundred years ago. He is fascinated, yet as he reads Simon becomes increasingly unnerved. Why do so many women in his family drown on 24th July? And could his beloved sister risk the same terrible fate?As 24th July draws ever closer, Simon must unlock the mysteries of the book, and decode his family history, before it's too late.Trade ReviewIn this dazzling debut, the immensely talented Erika Swyler sweeps seamlessly through generations and centuries, moving deftly back and forth and weaving the strands into an exquisite tapestry. I was immediately swept up in this quirky, raucous, and bewitching family saga. I absolutely loved this book * Sara Gruen, author of Water for Elephants *A luscious experience - dark, sweet and wild * Katherine Dunn, author of Geek Love *Compulsive reading * Elle *

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Book SynopsisRules and tips for surviving the zombie apocalypse. The following information may save your life. This book is designed to fit perfectly in your bug-out bag! If you are prepared for the zombie apocalypse you are prepared for anything! Throughout this book you will learn how to survive in the event of a zombie apocalypse and learn how to be a survivor! Use the following information to your advantage. Think like a survivor - when the zombie apocalypse descends upon us you will be a few steps ahead of the rest. Read, re-read, practice and apply, train hard and always think smart, you are a born survivor. This book of zombie survival rules will be a great asset to anyone preparing themselves for the zombie apocalypse.

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Book SynopsisWinter has come to the Varchinde and with it, the fatal spread of the blight. The grass is dead, the cities are falling and the Kas take their chance to rise from Rammouthe. Betrayed by his own forces, Rhan will abandon Fhaveon to lure the Kas into a final confrontation. As battle rages round him, Ecko realises that to save the Varchinde, he must face the greatest threat of all - the one that has come from his own world.

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Book SynopsisThe peaceful realm of Azeroth stands on the brink of war as its civilization faces a fearsome race of invaders: orc warriors fleeing their dying home to colonize another. As a portal opens to connect the two worlds, one army faces destruction and the other faces extinction. From opposing sides, two heroes are set on a collision course that will decide the fate of their family, their people and their home. So begins a spectacular saga of power and sacrifice in which war has many faces, and everyone fights for something.Trade Review“Enthralling from the first page” - Gamers Sphere“Exceptionally well written” - Nerdspan“I like how well the story deals in moral ambiguity rather than sticking to the familiar script of orcs bad, humans good. There is honor, love, and valor on both sides, just as there is betrayal, corruption, and frailty.” - VG Blogger

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Book SynopsisThe start of a rich and gripping fantasy series of dark magic, oppression and rebellion perfect for fans of Brandon Sanderson’s Mistborn and Robert Jordan’s The Wheel of Time. Stuck with arrows and close to death, a man is pulled from the icy waters of the Gulf of Nahl. As he is nursed back to health by a local fisherman, two things become very clear: he has no idea who he is, and he can kill a man with terrifying ease. The fisherman is a tiellan, a race which has long been oppressed and grown wary of humans. His daughter, Winter, is a seemingly quiet young woman, but behind her placid mask she has her demons. She is addicted to frostfire - a substance that both threatens to destroy her and simultaneously gives her phenomenal power. A young priestess, Cinzia, hears the troubling news of an uprising in her native city of Navone. Absconding from the cloistered life that she has kept for the last seven years, she knows she must make the long journey home. The flames of rebellion threatening her church and all that she believes in are bad enough, but far worse is the knowledge that the heretic who sparked the fire is her own sister. These three characters may have set out on different paths, but fate will bring them together on one thrilling and perilous adventure.Trade Review"The first book in the Chaos Queen Quintet starts with a bang and introduces Husberg's world to the reader in an interesting, plot-driven manner. " - Booklist "This is a solid setup for a great new fantasy epic, perfect for fans of Daniel Abraham and Brandon Sanderson." -- Library Journal "Duskfall is the Borne Identity for the fantasy crowd!...It is sure to quench the thirst of any reader who is looking for dark forces who vie for power and those who wish to fight against them!" Night Owl Reviews "a must for any fantasy lover and is the one you have been waiting for." - SFReader "The most engaging and satisfying fantasy book I have read in a very long time" - Impedimenta Magazine "This novel is a perfect read for fans of Anne Rice, or J. R. R. Tolkien." - Bookaholic Banter "Easy to become engrossed in" - Adventures In Poor Taste "This novel reminded me a bit of Gail Z. Martin, Michael J. Sullivan, Courtney Schafer and Marc J. Turner. Just like these authors, Christopher Husberg has the ability to entertain his readers and move the story fluently forward." - Rising Shadow

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Book SynopsisThe game's afoot once more as Holmes and Watson face off against Moriarty's gang, the Pinkertons, flesh-eating horses, a parliament of imps, boredom, Surrey, a disappointing butler demon, a succubus, a wicked lord, an overly-Canadian lord, a tricycle-fight to the death and the dreaded Pumpcrow. Oh, and a hell hound, one assumes.Trade Review“charming, amusing, and all around wonderful...If you’re a fan of the mashup culture that’s overtaking literature these days, are a fan of Sherlock Holmes, or simply want a wonderful, fun read, I cannot recommend Denning’s latest novel enough.” - Hey Poor Player “Any fan of Sherlock Holmes, Elementary, BBC Sherlock, and paranormal stories would benefit from reading these novels and seeing the take on Holmes through the eyes of G.S. Denning.” Gamers Sphere“a fun series” Hype Podcast“where else can you find demons battling on tricycles while wearing fake mustaches, yet still be on the edge of your seat wanting to know just how this story is going to end?” From Girlie to Nerdy “I highly recommend Denning’s fresh new twists to the classic cases of Sherlock Holmes to anyone who loves stories filled with magic, mystery, murder and hilarious hijinks. Warlock and John capture the readers’ lust for adventure within these magical cases and provide a ton of laughs within every story.” Geek Hard“Packed with hilarious characters, paranormal events, and callbacks to the original Sherlock Holmes stories, this book is a great choice if you’re into paranormal retellings of the classics” - newberyandbeyond.com“reminds me of Terry Pratchett” RisingShadow.netI’m completely addicted to this series, and here’s hoping I won’t have too long to wait until my next Warlock Holmes fix” BiblioSanctum.com

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Book Synopsis"If you ever wondered how much better Sherlock would be if people could hurl hellfire at each other, well this one is for you." Starburst Magazine on A Study in Brimstone As they blunder towards doom, Warlock Holmes and Dr. John Watson find themselves inconvenienced by a variety of eldritch beings. Christmas brings a goose that doesn’t let being cooked slow it down; they meet an electricity demon, discover why being a redhead is even tricker than one might imagine, and Holmes attempts an Irish accent. And, naturally, Moriarty is hanging around… in some form or other.Trade Review"Denning blends laughs and chills in his entertaining third warped take on Arthur Conan Doyle’s oeuvre (after 2017’s The Hell-Hound of the Baskervilles), in which Sherlock Holmes is a sorcerer and Watson is his more astute companion. Sherlockians will be especially appreciative of some of the jokes that riff on the canon." - Publishers Weekly“delightfully quirky and fun” Baker Street Babes “hilarious and clever” Criminal Element “Warlock Holmes has become my go-to for some light and fluffy fun because I know these characters will never let me down when I want a good laugh. I really hope this trend will continue for the next installment and beyond, because I just can’t wait to read more.” Bibliosanctum.com"Riotous from cover to cover, My Grave Ritual takes black fantasy-comedy to new heights (or sundry depths?) and is a "must-read" for connoisseurs of wild fantastic." - Midwest Book Review“laughter, hilarious situations and mind-boggling cases, wonderful characters you love more than you should, considering they’re fictional and a wonderfully fresh twist on a classic story.” Erlebnisse“I am looking forward to seeing where he goes next, since it is very clear that he has a lot of exciting, intelligent plot in store for us, if these first three books have been anything to go by.” The Frumious Consortium“endearingly funny and entertaining” From Girlie to Nerdy“The balance of mystery with supernatural is superb and quite a combination.” Geekisphere

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Book SynopsisFollowing the great success of the early Gothic Fantasy, deluxe edition short story compilations, Ghosts, Horror and Science Fiction, this exciting title in the series is packed with swashbuckling and steam-punking up to your eyeballs. Adventures and alt-historical tales from classic authors are cast with previously unpublished stories by exciting budding contemporary writers. New, contemporary and notable writers featured are: Andrew Bourelle, Beth Cato, Amanda C. Davis, Daniel J. Davis, Jennifer Dornan-Fish, Spencer Ellsworth, David Jón Fuller, Kelly A. Harmon, Liam Hogan, B.C. Matthews, Angus McIntyre, Dan Micklethwaite, Victoria Sandbrook, Zach Shephard, Amy Sisson, and Brian Trent. These appear alongside classic stories by authors such as John Buchan, L. Maria Child, George Griffith, Robert E. Howard, Edward Page Mitchell and Jules Verne.

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Book SynopsisFollowing the great success of the very first Gothic Fantasy, deluxe edition short story compilations, Ghosts, Horror and Science Fiction, this exciting title in the series is packed with bleak and paradisiacal visions in equal measure. Adventures in worlds of boundless imagination from classic authors are cast with previously unpublished stories by exciting budding contemporary writers. New and notable writers featured are: Kim Antieau, Steve Carr, Carolyn Charron, Megan Dorei, Sarah Lyn Eaton, Michelle Kaseler, Claude Lalumière, Gerri Leen, Konstantine Paradias, Jeff Parsons, Kelsey Shannahan, Nidhi Singh, Jeremy Szal, J.M. Templet, Russ Thorne, M. Darusha Wehm, and Andrew J. Wilson. These appear alongside classic stories by authors such as Edward Bellamy, Samuel Butler, Robert W. Chambers, Jack London and Mary Shelley. Flame Tree Gothic Fantasy, Classic Stories and Epic Tales collections bring together the entire range of myth, folklore and modern short fiction. Highlighting the roots of suspense, supernatural, science fiction and mystery stories, the books in Flame Tree Collections series are beautifully presented, perfect as a gift and offer a lifetime of reading pleasure.

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Book SynopsisSome three thousand years ago, in a time before history, the warriors of Greece journeyed to the ends of the earth in the greatest expedition the world had ever seen.One woman fought alongside them.Abandoned at birth on the slopes of Mount Pelion, Atalanta is determined to prove her worth to the father who cast her aside. Having taught herself to hunt and fight, and disguised as a man, she wins a place on the greatest voyage of that heroic age: with Jason and his band of Argonauts in search of the legendary Golden Fleece. And it is here, in the company of men who will go down in history as heroes, that Atalanta must battle against the odds – and the will of the gods – to take control of her destiny and change her life forever.With her unrivalled knowledge and captivating storytelling, Emily Hauser brings alive an ancient world where the gods can transform a mortal’s life on a whim, where warriors carve out names that will echo down the ages . . . and where one woman fights to determine her own fate.Trade ReviewIn For the Winner, Emily Hauser tells the compelling story of the brave, strong and clever Atalanta as she seeks to take her rightful place in her father's life. Her many adventures with Jason and his Argonauts kept me utterly absorbed. Here is a heroine to cheer for, and a book to cherish. * Margot Livesey *One of the most fascinating and innovative recent novelisations of the legendary journey of Jason and the Argonauts to capture the Golden Fleece seen from the eyes of the only heroine who, according to myth, took part: Atalanta. Although Jason and the Argonauts is one of the most famous stories of Greek mythology, the story of Atalanta has been less known or even neglected throughout the centuries. Emily Hauser's novel fills this gap with intellectual erudition, passion and paralleled imagination in order to give us, in the liveliest way possible, the story of an amazing female character and her journey from anonymity to immortality through her unbelievable heroic deeds. * Antony Makrinos, Fellow in Classics at UCL *An enchanting, dramatic novel that brings to life iconic mythic characters, including a woman whose voice had long been silenced. * Judith Starkston, author of HAND OF FIRE *For the Winner is beautifully descriptive and full of historical detail, easily drawing the reader into a lost world of gods and heroes. By taking the viewpoint of Atalanta, a lesser known character from Greek myth, Hauser gives us a refreshingly original take on Jason's famous quest for the Golden Fleece. * Glyn Iliffe, author of KING OF ITHACA *A brilliant, epic tale full of breath-taking action with a shining star at its centre, Atalanta, a female warrior of incredice force and drive. This gem of a book will leave you desperate for the next Emily Hauser novel. * Crystal King, author of FEAST OF SORROW *

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Book SynopsisNEIL GAIMAN: 'Glorious. A story that will be found and enjoyed and dreamed about for years to come'A celebration of friendship, courage and imagination inspired by Alice in Wonderland, The Chronicles of Narnia and The Wizard of Oz.__________________________It all starts on the morning the letter D disappears from the language. First, it vanishes from her parents' conversation at breakfast, then from the road signs outside. Soon the local dentist and the neighbour's Dalmatian are missing, and even the Donkey Derby has been called off. Though she doesn't know why, Dhikilo is summoned to the home of her old history teacher Professor Dodderfield and his faithful Labrador, Nelly Robinson. And this is where our story really begins. Set between England and the wintry land of Liminus, a world enslaved by the monstrous Gamp and populated by fearsome, enchanting creatures, D (Tale of Two Worlds) is a mesmerising tale of friendship and bravery in an uncertain world. Told with simple beauty and warmth, its celebration of moral courage and freethinking is a powerful reminder of our human capacity for strength, hope and justice.'Dhikilo is a splendid heroine for our time: She stands for kindness, honesty and humanity' DIANE SETTERFIELD'Young adult readers will love it, but Faber's brio and bubbly ingenuity will delight adult readers too.' Daily MailTrade ReviewGlorious. There is such personal and political outrage about the world. But what makes it feel like a Real Story, one that will be found and enjoyed and dreamed about for years to come, is Dhikilo, a fabulous heroine and a real person on the page. Her adventure and bravery as she attempts to restore a missing letter to the world is beautifully written and delightfully told. I loved it * NEIL GAIMAN *In this rather ebullient and lovely new novel by Michel Faber ... older children and fully-grown adults will certainly find much to relish in it * THE SCOTSMAN *Michel Faber never fails to tell his story with wit, intelligence and charm * SUNDAY TELEGRAPH *Part affectionate homage, part exhuberant fan fiction, YA readers will love it, but Faber's brio and bubbly ingenuity will delight adult readers too * DAILY MAIL *Dazzling * INDEPENDENT *A firecracker of a novel * STUART KELLY, EDINBURGH LITERARY FESTIVAL 2020 *If ever a book like this was needed, it is now. Dhikilo is a splendid heroine for our time: She stands for kindness, honesty and humanity. Her triumph will have readers rejoicing * DIANE SETTERFIELD *Testament to his storytelling gift and to the charm and the warmth of his writing * TELEGRAPH *The deadpan style makes this more funny than scary. Faber's acknowledged debt to James Thurber's O is clear. It's very enjoyable * SUNDAY EXPRESS *

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Book Synopsis'Absorbing and beautiful - a great achievement.' BRIDGET COLLINS, bestselling author of The BindingThere are hundreds, possibly thousands, of sisters Grimm on Earth.You may well be one of them, though you might never know it. This is the story of four sisters Grimm – daughters born to different mothers on the same day, each born out of bright-white wishing and black-edged desire. They found each other at eight years-old, were separated at thirteen and now, at nearly eighteen, it is imperative that they find each other once again. In thirty-three days they will meet their father in Everwhere. Only then will they discover who they truly are, and what they can truly do. Then they must fight to save their lives and the lives of the ones they love. Three will live, one will die. You’ll have to read on to find out who and why . . .___________________'A darkly beguiling delight that’s perfect for fans of rich and imaginative fantasy books akin to Erin Morgenstern and Neil Gaiman.' CULTUREFLYTrade ReviewVividly drawn, evocative and complex, The Sisters Grimm is both absorbing and beautiful – a great achievement. -- BRIDGET COLLINS, author of The BindingOne of those rare finds: a vivid and fully-realised act of the imagination, written with the page-turning immediacy of the here and now, but overflowing with the wonder of the stories of old. -- ROBERT DINSDALE, author of The ToymakersA very grown up fairy-tale with more than a nod to Angela Carter and Philip Pullman . . . textured and complex . . . genuinely thrilling and emotional . . . it's never less than spellbinding. * STARBURST *A darkly beguiling delight that’s perfect for fans of rich and imaginative fantasy books akin to Erin Morgenstern and Neil Gaiman. * CULTUREFLY *An entertaining and clever examination of folklore, female empowerment, and the system that attempts to keep women in check.' * SciFiNOW *Van Praag spins a compelling, intensely poetic narrative of empowerment and self-realisation. * Guardian *

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Book Synopsis'A remarkable series' SFFANZShe's the Empress of the Fall . . . and her empire is falling apart.'Represents modern epic fantasy at its best' Fantasy Book CriticLyra, Queen of Rondelmar, has fought enemies without and within, dealt with grief and loss, embraced forbidden magic, found her father and borne a child - and still it isn't enough. Her enemies are on the march and the Rondian Empire is collapsing.But a more dangerous adversary is out there . . . and he is winning.Ervyn Naxius, amoral genius, has unleashed war on two continents and now laughing as the world of Urte tears itself apart. Kings and priests dance to his tune and his daemonic followers are spreading through the lands, but still he isn't satisfied. His ultimate goal - absolute control of all life - is finally within his reach . . .Are these the Last Days, when the daemons rise up to claim the world?From snowbound Mollachia to the beleaguered walls of Norostein, from the poisonous court of the new sultan to the deadly intrigues of Pallas, the omens are clear. Only Lyra and a handful of other heretical dwymancers have grasped the true danger - and they won't give up until every last hope is buried . . .Trade ReviewA remarkable series * SFFANZ *Promises to recall epic fantasy's finest * Tor.com on the Moontide Quartet *Represents modern epic fantasy at its best * Fantasy Book Critic on the Moontide Quartet *Increasingly addictive . . . Adult fantasy lovers who enjoy historical fiction and intricate political plots will love this book . . . epic * A Bohemian Mind at Work *Empress of the Fall is a sprawling epic fantasy of grandiose proportions . . . with a hearty taste of blood and gore, and plenty of vicious politics * Angela Oliver, author of Fellowship of the Ringtails *I continue to be impressed by the way Hair takes some very familiar, almost trite, ideas and spins them in a new way. Epic fantasy is not dying, my friends, it is just moving in new directions * Fantasy Review Barn *One of the best examples, in recent memory, of epic fantasy * Novelnaut on Hearts of Ice *True epic fantasy. It has everything a fan could want - detailed magic, good characters and evil characters (of both genders) and some in between, a compelling plot, and twists aplenty * A Bitter Draft *This is a series I cannot recommend enough * C.E. Tracy, author of Chronicles of the Fallen *Increasingly addictive . . . Adult fantasy lovers who enjoy historical fiction and intricate political plots will love this book. Just don't let yourself be overwhelmed by the first few pages. The rest is epic * A Bohemian Mind at Work *Beautifully written, a fantastically epic tale spanning two continents, with flashes of the Crusades combined with wonderfully inventive magic. It's grounded in believable characters that I loved and hated, and full of action and heartbreak. And knights flying into battle on winged horses - how cool is that! * JOHN GWYNNE, bestselling author of Malice *

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Book SynopsisGet lost in the Underlands in this 'gripping and tantalisingly sexy read.' Holdfast Magazine on Marked. Perfect for fans of Deborah Harkness, Laini Taylor and Anne Bishop.Lucky de Salle was dragged into the Underlands against her will, but there she found a whole new world - and a whole new life. She always knew she was psychic, but discovering her ghostly best friend was in fact her demon half-sister - and she herself is half-demon - came as a shock. Falling in love with two men wasn't in her game plan either, but that's working out brilliantly. Or it was . . . but now Jinx the Deathbringer has been kidnapped by Lucky's enemies, who intend to use his powers to destroy the worlds above and below. And Jamie has tried to use his own powers to control her, destroying her trust in him. Now Jamie and his fellow Guardians have been ordered to bring Jinx back in - dead or alive - before he can rain destruction down upon the earth. If Lucky is to save him, and forgive Jamie, she'll have to learn to use her own burgeoning powers - and fast!Bound is the third and final book in the Soulseer Chronicles by Sue Tingey.Trade ReviewA real page turner! Sue Tingey has a real gift for crafting characters . . . This is a five-star read all the way * Carlie M A Cullen *

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Book SynopsisSummer is gone, and the world is turning to ice.The Rondian Empress Lyra has lost her husband, her army is defeated and the deadly Masked Cabal have seized the Holy City. Her allies have abandoned her and her empire is spiralling into chaos - and her only weapon is a forbidden magic she dare not use. She can't survive alone - but who can she still trust?'Vibrant, memorable characters' - SciFi NowThe Eastern conqueror Sultan Rashid is victorious on the battlefield, but now he faces an enemy more deadly than Rondian knights: the winter. Unless he captures a major city to shelter his huge armies, his plans to overthrow the West face ruin in the snow. But standing between his men and safety is the remnants of a defeated army led by a general who knows all about fighting for survival.'An epic journey of ordinary people destined to change the course of history . . . alluring . . . gripping' - BoHoMind.comThere are no easy options left. Lyra and her fellow dwymancers must master their deadly magic, whatever the cost. Even those who believe themselves to be fighting for good must grasp the reins of power with cold-hearted determination, and use even the most terrible weapon, if they are to stop the world from falling apart . . . for ever.Trade ReviewEmpress of the Fall is a sprawling epic fantasy of grandiose proportions . . . with a hearty taste of blood and gore, and plenty of vicious politics * ANGELA OLIVER, author of Fellowship of the Ringtails *A page-turning adventure filled with excitement and intriguing characters. For those loving an epic fantasy with plenty of sword-fights, gun-play, bare-fisted combat and battles between sorcerers, this book's for you * AMAZING STORIES on Map’s Edge *Beautifully written, a fantastically epic tale spanning two continents, with flashes of the Crusades combined with wonderfully inventive magic. It's grounded in believable characters that I loved and hated, and full of action and heartbreak. And knights flying into battle on winged horses - how cool is that! * JOHN GWYNNE, bestselling author of Malice on Empress of the Fall *Massive but focused, every character POV is interesting and none of them seem cliché, the magic and world is great * BRIAN'S BOOK BLOG *Vibrant, memorable characters are littered across the landscape and the Lantric masks are a great piece of detail. For anyone looking for a new sprawling fantasy epic to stick their teeth into, Empress Of The Fall is an ultimately satisfying journey into a fascinating and chaotic landscape * SCI FI NOW *Classic immersive fantasy * RIBBON REVIEWS *True epic fantasy. It has everything a fan could want - detailed magic, good characters and evil characters (of both genders) and some in between, a compelling plot, and twists aplenty * A BITTER DRAFT *Increasingly addictive . . . Adult fantasy lovers who enjoy historical fiction and intricate political plots will love this book . . . epic * A BOHEMIAN MIND AT WORK *A remarkable series * SFFANZ *These characters . . . have found a confidence on the page which somehow endears them more to the reader * BRITISH FANTASY SOCIETY on Prince of the Spear *This is a series I cannot recommend enough * C.E. TRACY, author of Chronicles of the Fallen *Hair is adept at building characters as well as worlds, and his attention to his female players is welcome in a genre that too often excludes them * KIRKUS *I continue to be impressed by the way Hair takes some very familiar, almost trite, ideas and spins them in a new way. Epic fantasy is not dying, my friends, it is just moving in new directions * FANTASY REVIEW BARN *The Moontide Quartet is perhaps the most understated fantasy series currently being written. It features a wide, diverse cast of characters spread out over dual continents. Focusing on a clash of civilisations storyline, David Hair offers a tale that encapsulates epic fantasy to its entirety * FANTASY BOOK CRITIC, The Year’s Top Ten *A complex world populated by a rich and diverse cast of characters . . . There's a little something for everyone here - conspiracies, political backstabbing, high magic, swordplay, a smattering of romance, and more . . .Recommended for fans of George R.R. Martin, Brandon Sanderson and Patrick Rothfuss * MONSTER LIBRARIAN *One of the best examples, in recent memory, of epic fantasy * NOVELNAUT *Amazing, The Moontide Quartet epic fantasy series. I'll not reveal all the details and plots, you'll just need to read these books. It will make you turning pages at the speed of a desert storm * DEJAN DELIC DEVIANT ART *

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Book SynopsisDesperate for the next Game of Thrones? Prince of the Spear continues the Sunsurge Quartet and delivers a full-on fix of epic fantasy.The unthinkable has happened. With the Leviathan Bridge critically damaged and its towers unable to control the skies between Yuros and Antiopia, the East has invaded the West. A vast windfleet, constructed in secret, is winging across the Pontic SeaThe holy Shihad has begun.The Rondian Empire is divided and weak. Empress Lyra has barely survived a coup, triggered by a masked cabal whose members still remain concealed in the highest echelons of her court. Only Lyra's secret affinity to the heretical power of dwyma saved her - but that affinity is also her most dangerous weakness.As empires clash, lives are torn apart and long-held beliefs are overthrown by circumstance and desperation. A young queen whose court is riddled with traitors turns to the wrong people in her hour of need. Two princes clash in the skies, the fate of two nations riding on their skill. Two brothers must reconcile disparate cultures to regain their kingdom. An idealistic rabble-rouser sees a chance to strike. And a small group of dwymancers grope blindly for knowledge in a race against time before the masked Cabal strike again.Trade ReviewBeautifully written, a fantastically epic tale spanning two continents, with flashes of the Crusades combined with wonderfully inventive magic. It's grounded in believable characters that I loved and hated, and full of action and heartbreak. And knights flying into battle on winged horses - how cool is that! * JOHN GWYNNE, bestselling author of Malice *I enjoyed the characters and their struggles and schemes . . . Classic immersive fantasy * RIBBON REVIEWS on Empress of the Fall *Increasingly addictive . . . Adult fantasy lovers who enjoy historical fiction and intricate political plots will love this book . . . epic * A BOHEMIAN MIND AT WORK *Hair is adept at building characters as well as worlds, and his attention to his female players is welcome in a genre that too often excludes them. * KIRKUS *For anyone looking for a new sprawling fantasy epic to stick their teeth into, Empress Of The Fall is an ultimately satisfying journey into a fascinating and chaotic landscape * SCIFI NOW on Empress of the Fall *Empress is a sprawling epic fantasy of grandiose proportions . . . with a hearty taste of blood and gore, and plenty of vicious politics * ANGELA OLIVER, author of Fellowship of the Ringtails *A page-turning adventure filled with excitement and intriguing characters. For those loving an epic fantasy with plenty of sword-fights, gun-play, bare-fisted combat and battles between sorcerers, this book's for you * AMAZING STORIES on Map's Edge *These characters . . . have found a confidence on the page which somehow endears them more to the reader * BRITISH FANTASY SOCIETY on Prince of the Spear *Good supply of politics, gore and a well-thought-out magic system * REVIEW GRAVEYARD *Promises to recall epic fantasy's finest * TOR.COM on the Moontide Quartet *It isn't often that I find a fantasy brick as enjoyable as this one; it's been quite a while in fact, and I think I can safely commend this series to lovers of the genre, as one that will satisfy and yet leave the reader ready for more * JACQUI SMITH, A Kiwi’s Book Review on Empress of the Fall *I continue to be impressed by the way Hair takes some very familiar, almost trite, ideas and spins them in a new way. Epic fantasy is not dying my friends, it is just moving in new directions * FANTASY REVIEW BARN on Unholy War *Vivid, dynamic characters and terrific world building . . . Readers of epic fantasy should definitely check out this series * BIBLIOSANCTUM on the Moontide Quartet *Represents modern epic fantasy at its best. * FANTASY BOOK CRITIC on the Moontide Quartet *The sense of chaos, endless politicking between factions and urge by characters to make sense out of events beyond their control is palpable as the pace becomes more and more frantic * UPCOMING4.ME on the Moontide Quartet *The writing is crisp, the characters full of vigour and desires which when they become banded together really gives the story something to focus upon as the bonds grow stronger * FALCATA TIMES on the Moontide Quartet *So epic, that it gets you so involved and is such an investment in time and emotion, that there is a little sting of regret that the ending had to come at all * BRITISH FANTASY SOCIETY on the Moontide Quartet *

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Book SynopsisDesperate for the next Game of Thrones? Pick up Empress of the Fall for your full-on fix of epic fantasy.The Emperor is dead - long live the Empress!Emperor Constant is dead and his rivals are scrabbling for power - but any misstep could plunge the land, already devastated by the shocking outcome of the Third Crusade, into a calamitous civil war.The Imperial throne is not the only one in jeopardy. Two brothers, imprisoned veterans of the Crusades, finally return home to find their father's kingdom being plundered - but the price of regaining their birthright will have far-reaching implications for the entire empire.In the East, Sultan Salim, peacemaker and visionary ruler, faces his greatest challenge as his people demand an invasion of the West in retribution for the Rondian CrusadesAnd lurking in the darkness, orchestrating both the power struggles and the inevitable conflicts, is a shadowy group threatening to destroy civilisation itself.Once more, Urte stands on the brink of cataclysm.Trade ReviewFor anyone looking for a new sprawling fantasy epic to stick their teeth into, Empress Of The Fall is an ultimately satisfying journey into a fascinating and chaotic landscape * SciFiNow *Hair is adept at building characters as well as worlds, and his attention to his female players is welcome in a genre that too often excludes them * Kirkus Reviews *So epic, that it gets you so involved and is such an investment in time and emotion, that there is a little sting of regret that the ending had to come at all * British Fantasy Society on the Moontide Quartet *Adult fantasy lovers who enjoy historical fiction and intricate political plots will love this book . . . Epic * Boho Mind *Promises to recall epic fantasy's finest * Tor.com on the Moontide Quartet *"Empress" is a sprawling epic fantasy of grandiose proportions . . . with a hearty taste of blood and gore, and plenty of vicious politics * Angela Oliver, author of Fellowship of the Ringtails *Vivid, dynamic characters and terrific world building . . . Readers of epic fantasy should definitely check out this series * Bibliosanctum on the Moontide Quartet *Represents modern epic fantasy at its best. * Fantasy Book Critic on the Moontide Quartet *The sense of chaos, endless politicking between factions and urge by characters to make sense out of events beyond their control is palpable as the pace becomes more and more frantic * Upcoming4.me on the Moontide Quartet *The writing is crisp, the characters full of vigour and desires which when they become banded together really gives the story something to focus upon as the bonds grow stronger * Falcata Times on the Moontide Quartet *I continue to be impressed by the way Hair takes some very familiar, almost trite, ideas and spins them in a new way. Epic fantasy is not dying my friends, it is just moving in new directions * Fantasy Review Barn on Unholy War *I enjoyed the characters and their struggles and schemes . . . Classic immersive fantasy * Ribbon Reviews *A book that really does give . . . a cracking start * Falcata Times *It isn't often that I find a fantasy brick as enjoyable as this one; it's been quite a while in fact, and I think I can safely commend this series to lovers of the genre, as one that will satisfy and yet leave the reader ready for more * Jaqui Smith, A Kiwi’s Book Review *

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Book SynopsisTHE THRILLING SEQUEL TO THE TRIUMPH OF THE DWARVESThe Hidden Land lies broken. In the terrible battle to save the home of the dwarves, elves and humans, many sacrifices were made by great heroes, and at the last the älfar were defeated. Aiphatòn, the son of the indelible and erstwhile Emperor of the Älfar, has sworn that his race will never again pose such a dire threat to the world; he is determined to seek out and destroy the last of his own people.But there may be a greater enemy to face: an enigmatic mage with powerful magic at her fingertips is threatening the entire country.Suddenly the Hidden Land's greatest enemy has become its only hope . . .The action never lets up in this next exciting story in the saga of the dwarves and the älfar! 'Tolkien with a dash of Gemmell and a sprinkling of George R.R. Martin' Malazan EmpireTrade ReviewDriven by unrelenting action, [the book] springs to life through the vivid, vigorous writing * Kirkus on the Legends of the Alfar *Markus Heitz is a phenomenon in the field of Fantastic Literature * Fantasybook Germany *Tolkien with a dash of Gemmell and a sprinkling of George R.R. Martin * Malazan Empire on Markus Heitz *There is adventure, fighting, death, one truly gruesome act and a people going to war. I enjoyed this book and I want more about the Älfar. Because at the end, stuff is going down * Books for Life *The prose is sharp, the action sequences bloody and all in this has been a real joy to read. Throw into the mix some cracking double-dealing, some political machinations and all in this series has been a pure joy from start to finish and definitely one I'd recommend to other fantasy fans * Falcata Times *Markus Heitz is once again setting off a fantasy fireworks display! * denglers-buchkritik.de *Yet again, Raging Storm captivates readers with epic battles and a plot full of action * Die Rheinpfalz *Heitz knows how to spin legends that never lose their attraction * The Aachener *The story is filled with many original characters and unpredictable events, and in between there is blood, war and destruction * Booksection *

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Book Synopsis'A book with special and dangerous properties' Hilary Mantel, bestselling author of Wolf Hall'Enthralling' M.R. Carey, bestselling author of The Girl With All the Gifts 'An imaginative tour de force' The Times1558: Twelve children, gifted far beyond their years, are banished by their Tudor queen to the town of Rotherweird. Some say they are the golden generation; some say the devil's spawn. But everyone knows they are something to be revered - and feared. Four and a half centuries on, cast adrift from the rest of England by Elizabeth I and still bound by its ancient laws, Rotherweird's independence is subject to one disturbing condition: nobody, but nobody, studies the town or its history. Then an Outsider arrives, a man of unparallelled wealth and power, enough to buy the whole of Rotherweird - deeply buried secrets and all . . . Welcome to Rotherweird. 'A remarkable achievement' Sunday Independent 'Compelling' GuardianTrade ReviewA history-tragic-comedy all rolled into one, Rotherweird is intricate and crisp, witty and solemn: a book not unlike other books, but with special and dangerous properties. Line by line, silent and adroit, it opens a series of trap-doors in the reader's imagination * Hilary Mantel, two-time Man Booker prize winner *An imaginative tour de force * The Times *Baroque, Byzantine and beautiful - not to mention bold. An enthralling puzzle picture of a book * M R Carey, author of the bestselling The Girl With All The Gifts *Compelling . . . the love child of Gormenghast and Hogwarts * Guardian *Sublime . . . Call me greedy, but I'm already itching to return to Caldecott's universe * The Irish Times *One of this year's most anticipated debut novels * SFX *This novel is a remarkable achievement. It's also extremely funny, in a typically British sort of way . . . a delightful Harry Potter for grown ups * Sunday Independent *Truly, sinisterly magical. 10/10 * Starburst *A great introduction to its strange and mesmerising world, and a feat of imagination, packed with ideas and extraordinary people. It's well worth the visit * SciFiNow *This is a twisty, hilarious, magical story crammed full of intricate characters and nefarious plots * The Little Squid *I LOVED this book. It just did something to me. I was utterly immersed from page one . . . This is a novel of magnificence and detail, of science and nature * Fantastical Library *Assured and ambitious . . . deeply impressive debut * Nick Curtis, Evening Standard on Higher than Babel *Hugely entertaining . . . this novel is a remarkable achievement. It's also extremely funny, in a typically British sort of way * Independent.ie *Vivid and absorbing and grapples with big ideas without being dry, difficult or patronising * Sarah Hemming, Financial Times on Higher than Babel *What an enjoyable read! So vividly written, I could visualise every winding street and twisting chimney of Rotherweird . . . If you like Ben Aaronovitch, Neil Gaiman or Susanna Clarke, this book is for you! * Book Geek Girl *If J. K. Rowling had given Jasper Fforde permission to document a decade of derring-do in Diagon Alley, the result would read rather like Rotherweird * Tor.com *A quirky portal fantasy peppered with singular names . . . Top marks for inventiveness * Speculative Herald *This is an immensely enjoyable, Gothic(ish) / steampunk/ Gormanghast-esque romp with Dickensian overtones. Rotherweird itself is a great imaginative creation . . . A fun, often funny, exciting and highly readable story. Get it now * Blue Balloon *Highly recommended, I think this novel will eventually be viewed as a modern classic * The Eloquent Page *One of the most appealing and fascinating books I've read in some time now. There is darkness and humour here together with invention and originality. For me there are echoes of the work of both Mervyn Peake and Neil Gaiman here * Books and More Books *This is quite possibly the best fantasy novel I have read this year * Silvia Kay on YouTube *The writing is a true pleasure . . . an airy, yet incisive quality; a purposeful dreaminess; images that stick with me, yet prose that does not labor to describe * Strange Horizons *A highly unusual book, a kind of portal fantasy/historical fantasy/contemporary urban fantasy blend. It reminds me most of Robert Holdstock or Charles de Lint, though less ominous in tone than either * The Review Curmudgeon *Unusual, mannered, quirky * Library Thing *A fun blend of absurdist humour, creepy peril and fecund magic to be found here * Press Reader *History, fantasy, tragedy and comedy collide in new and unusual ways, to create a novel that is full of intrigue and mystery * The Book Muse *Rotherweird definitely delivered. The flippant way to describe it would be as a Midsomer Murders episode as told by Jeff VanderMeer with a touch of Agatha Christie. That doesn't do it justice though because joking aside it's a very good book * Stefen’s Books *I loved the blend of past, present and other worlds. I loved the characters, the intricate plotting and the playfulness with words, English and Latin * Boffins Books *A mystical tale of suspense and adventure, mixed in with the macabre and Tudor England. Andrew Caldecott's ability to create and shape worlds and the characters in them, draws the reader into an intense narrative of plot and subtext that keeps you guessing. Enchanting and beautifully written * lifehasafunnywayofsneakinguponyou.wordpress.com *Intricate . . . while the focus might be on the oddball inhabitants, Rotherweird is the true heart and soul of the narrative, a character in its own right * Publishers Weekly *A strange, twisting tale of dark magic and horrible experimentation . . . Caldecott uses parallel storylines and mysterious, absurd twists and turns to entertain, painting a tale of strange stones, a patch of starless sky, tiles that transport to other worlds, and plants with unexpected properties. The characters are vivid and complex and make up the larger character of a town that is coping with a growing menace * Booklist *If you like strange, mysterious fantasy, this is the book for you * Lost in a Good Book *The Rotherweird trilogy is a sprawling absorbing saga that is breathtaking in conceit and accomplishment. Fans of deeply immersive fiction, such as that created by Neal Stephenson, will love losing themselves in this nightmarish vision of a parochial English town * GeekDad *Rotherweird is a great read when you want to break out of the mold and take a step out of time . . . Returning to the citizens of Rotherweird will surely be as wild a ride as the start * Novel Lives *Merrily weird fun * Locus *

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Book Synopsis'Intricate and crisp, witty and solemn: a book with special and dangerous properties' Hilary Mantel on Rotherweird'Baroque, Byzantine and beautiful - not to mention bold' - M.R. Carey on RotherweirdWELCOME BACK TO ROTHERWEIRD For four hundred years, the town of Rotherweird has stood alone, made independent from the rest of England to protect a deadly secret. But someone is playing a very long game. An intricate plot, centuries in the making, is on the move. Everything points to one objective - the resurrection of Rotherweird's dark Elizabethan past - and to one date: the Winter Equinox. Wynter is coming . . .Trade ReviewA history-tragic-comedy all rolled into one, Rotherweird is intricate and crisp, witty and solemn: a book not unlike other books, but with special and dangerous properties. Line by line, silent and adroit, it opens a series of trap-doors in the reader's imagination * HILARY MANTEL, two-time Man Booker prize winner *Baroque, Byzantine and beautiful - not to mention bold. An enthralling puzzle picture of a book * M.R. CAREY, bestselling author of The Girl With All the Gifts *Beautifully handled sequel that cooks up a banquet of dark delights. Once again, we are captivated by the compelling alchemy of plot, place and people: the quirks, the mysteries, the saintliness and the sheer bloody evil * Daily Mail *To his lawyerly eye for detail he adds a conjurer's flourish in Wyntertide, the darkly hypnotic sequel to last year's bestseller Rotherweird . . . Rotherweird, Caldecott's fictional English town, has antecedents in Mervyn Peake's Gormenghast, C S Lewis's Narnia books and, inevitably, a certain bespectacled boy-wizard * Sunday Telegraph *Darkly hypnotic -- Ed Power * The Daily Telegraph *I loved every single thing about it. Wyntertide perfectly continues the journey that began in Rotherweird. Highly recommended * The Eloquent Page *Wyntertide builds on all the best parts of its predecessor, introducing the reader to the wider history of Rotherweird, while relishing its small town drama * SciFiNow *Even better than the first book . . . Seamlessly structured and reads at a galumphing pace . . . As Wynter's go, this is one cold snap that's very welcome indeed. 10/10 * Starburst *I'd strongly recommend you to read it, and to keep reading * Blue Book Balloon *Fiendishly plotted and carefully crafted * SFCrowsnest *Caldecott's writing is literally spellbinding * The Digital Fix *Well-written, an intriguing world and premise * Cannonball Read *Enjoyable and highly original * Pile by the Bed *Wonderfully inventive once again with that Heath Robinson feel that I noted last time. The characters are rich and vivid * Books and More Books *Rollicking blend of historical fiction and fantasy, mixed together with an abundance of intricate (often word-related) puzzles, Wyntertide is a wonderful sequel to Rotherweird. I loved the characters, and found the curious mix of Elizabethan and modern setting and sensibility very appealing * Boffins Bookshop *Compelling . . . the love child of Gormenghast and Hogwarts * Guardian on ROTHERWEIRD *This novel is a remarkable achievement. It's also extremely funny, in a typically British sort of way . . . a delightful Harry Potter for grown-ups * Sunday Independent on ROTHERWEIRD *Sublime . . . Call me greedy, but I'm already itching to return to Caldecott's universe * Irish Times on ROTHERWEIRD *Truly, sinisterly magical. 10/10 * Starburst on ROTHERWEIRD *I LOVE this book. It just did something to me. I was utterly immersed from page one . . . This is a novel of magnificence and detail, of science and nature * FANTASTICAL LIBRARY on ROTHERWEIRD *What an enjoyable read! So vividly written, I could visualise every winding street and twisting chimney of Rotherweird . . . If you like Ben Aaronovitch, Neil Gaiman or Susanna Clarke, this book is for you! * Book Geek Girl on ROTHERWEIRD *Highly recommended, I think novel will eventually be viewed as a modern classic * The Eloquent Page on ROTHERWEIRD *

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Book Synopsis'Intricate and crisp, witty and solemn' Hilary Mantel, Man Booker Prize-winning author of Wolf Hall on RotherweirdAPOCALYPSE NOW?Geryon Wynter, the brilliant Elizabethan mystic, has achieved resurrection and returned to present-day Rotherweird. But after the chaos of Election Day, how can a stranger from another time wrest control? And for what fell purpose is Wynter back? His dark conspiracy reaches its climax in this unique corner of England, where the study of history is forbidden and neither friend nor foe are quite what they seem.The stakes could not be higher, for at the endgame, not only Rotherweird is under threat. The future of mankind itself hangs in the balance.'Baroque, Byzantine and beautiful - not to mention bold. An enthralling puzzle picture of a book' M. R. Carey, bestselling author of The Girl With All The Gifts on RotherweirdTrade ReviewA history-tragic-comedy all rolled into one, Rotherweird is intricate and crisp, witty and solemn: a book not unlike other books, but with special and dangerous properties. Line by line, silent and adroit, it opens a series of trap-doors in the reader's imagination * Hilary Mantel, two-time Man Booker prize winner, on Rotherweird *Baroque, Byzantine and beautiful - not to mention bold. An enthralling puzzle picture of a book * M.R. Carey, author of the bestselling The Girl With All The Gifts, on Rotherweird *Compelling . . . the love child of Gormenghast and Hogwarts * The Guardian on Rotherweird *The Rotherweird trilogy is a sprawling absorbing saga that is breath-taking in conceit and accomplishment. Fans of deeply immersive fiction, such as that created by Neal Stephenson, will love losing themselves in this nightmarish vision of a parochial English town, where everybody has secrets. * Geek Dad on Lost Acre *[A] sprawling fantasy epic * The Guardian on Lost Acre *This novel is a remarkable achievement. It's also extremely funny, in a typically British sort of way . . . a delightful Harry Potter for grown-ups * Sunday Independent on Rotherweird *An imaginative tour de force * The Times on Rotherweird *Lost Acre is a triumphant final volume to what has been a constantly surprising piece of modern British fantasy. Part Gormenghast, part Monty Python, part mythology, part Terry Pratchett, a little bit steampunk but with the occasional dragon and changeling, and with plenty of word puzzles along the way. And while it has plenty of antecedents, this series, its setting and its tone is totally unique and thoroughly enjoyable and should be celebrated as such * Pile by the Bed on Lost Acre *Intricate and rather beautiful . . . gothic, engaging, and strange, this is a series that has been filled with praise by fans of baroque literature from all fields * Starburst *A vivid fantasy world - albeit one with firm roots in both our own Elizabethan age and, with a timeshift plot set off by events in the Tudor era, the time of Good Queen Bess * SFX *Precisely calibrated . . . The stakes could not be higher * Daily Mail on Lost Acre *I'm a sucker for a good puzzle and this one was magnificent * Midnight Blue *Ambitious in his scope . . . incredibly inventive * SF Crowsnest on Lost Acre *Lost Acre is the perfect swansong to the wonderfully executed series of books. Highly recommended * The Eloquent Page on Lost Acre *It's complex, intriguing and I've loved it! It's definitely ambitious but it does work! It's very original and nothing like I've seen before * Life Has a Funny Way of Sneaking Up on You on Lost Acre *A steampunkish amalgam of Mervyn Peake's Gormenghast, Terry Pratchett's Ankh-Morpork and Christopher Isherwood and Edward Upward's Mortmere, replete with quirky characters, Heath Robinsonesque mechanical devices and a dash of the supernatural * The Guardian *Rotherweird and its otherworldly counterpart Lost Acre are just as fascinating as ever. Lost Acre, like its predecessors, is a book to be savoured. If you like your fantasy complex, this is a trilogy for you and Lost Acre rounds it off in style * Mugful of Books on Lost Acre *A clever, quirky and enjoyable jaunt into a gothic mystery spanning the millennia between Roman invasions (Gregorius), the Elizabethans (Bole and Wynter, Ferensen and the Seers) and the modern day * The Book Lovers' Sanctuary on Lost Acre *Caldecott delivers with gusto. There are surprises too: far from being an all-powerful villain, even Wynter isn't sure what is happening (can it be he's really being played?) - and many secrets still lie hidden. An excellent close to this trilogy . I'd also commend the illustrations by Sasha Laika - they are moody, allusive and add greatly to the atmosphere * Blue Book Balloon on Lost Acre *Still one of the best characters in these stories is the city of Rotherweird. It is slightly gothic, Dickensian, there is a touch of horror in it, but it is foremost absolutely captivating. This world building, although complex, is done with great skill and is one (of the many) attractive features. It gave me many hours of sometimes confusing, sometimes marvellous and very often amazing pleasure * Library Thing on Lost Acre *Delightfully ordinary people with extraordinary names wrestle with weird machinery, weirder science and some quite deliciously gruesome flayage * Jamie Buxton, Daily Mail *A great read . . . rich and rewarding * Sci Fi Online *One of those rare, satisfying commitments you've been looking for in a book * Amazing Stories *A rather spectacular conclusion to a unique series * Locus *

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Book SynopsisA murdered diplomat, planted evidence and a treacherous sister: once again, Helga had better find the real killer quickly, before heads start rolling - literally - in this brand-new Viking noir mystery. 'For Vikings done right, come to Snorri Kristjansson' Mark Lawrence, author of Red SisterHelga Finnsdottir left her foster parents, the old Viking chieftain Unnthor Reginson and his knowing wife Hildigunnur, to see the world, but she stopped in Uppsala when she fell in love. Now she's established herself as a local healer and herb-woman on the outskirts of town, and life is good - until King Eirik the Victorious calls a trade council and hairy northerners and southern Swedes alike descend on the town.Unfortunately for Helga, one delegation is headed by a very determined young woman who has her own agenda and will let nothing - and no one - get in her way. But the last time Helga saw Jorunn Unthorsdottir, her foster-sister was being cast out by their father for killing their brother Bjorn and trying to pin the blame on Helga. So perhaps it's no great surprise when one of the delegates is murdered, or that Helga's soon tagged as the lead suspect. It doesn't take her long to clear her own name, but that only leads suspicion to fall on to her man. Once again, Helga must solve a murder, and fast, before the innocent pays with his head.'Truly entertaining' Yrsa Sigurðardóttir, author of the Thóra Gudmundsdóttir series, on Kin'An exciting new voice. With his Viking mystery, Snorri has created a new and interesting sub-genre of Icelandic noir' Ragnar Jonasson on KinTrade ReviewA standout item . . . Top notch * Weekend Sport on Council *A dark mystery in a dark age brought vividly to life. For lovers of the Vikings TV series and Lindsey Davies alike. I look forward to more of Helga Finnsdottir * Robert Fabbri, author of the bestselling Vespasian series, on Kin *Truly entertaining: a new and original Nordic Noir voice * Yrsa Sigurðardóttir, author of the Thóra Gudmundsdóttir series, on Kin *Kristjansson has an evocative style that is easy to get caught up in. If you've not already discovered these books, and you enjoy your crime fiction historic in nature, I heartily recommend checking them out * The Eloquent Page on Council *An exciting new voice. With his Viking mystery, Snorri has created a new and interesting sub-genre of Icelandic noir * Ragnar Jonasson on Kin *For Vikings done right, come to Snorri Kristjansson * Mark Lawrence, bestselling author of Red Sister *Praise Odin, it's a terrific mystery! With Viking family values and a sharp-witted heroine, Snorri Kristjansson delivers a first-rate chronicle of intrigue and murder * Stephen Gallagher, bestselling author of Red, Red Robin on Kin *Council's depiction of Viking life, practices and Norse mythology is its strength . . . [it] brings something to the table which will appeal to readers of different genres. If you don't like historical fiction, you'll be swayed by the crime twist and if you don't like crime, the Viking setting may keep you reading. Either way it's a battle won * Crime Fiction Lover on Council *An entertaining and claustrophobic tale of familial tension and murder * SciFiNow on Kin *The start of an interesting crime series * Book Worm Mum on Kin *Timeless and universal . . . It will be interesting to see where Kristjansson's imagination takes his beguiling heroine next * Starburst on Kin *The remote setting of Viking village, the historical period and Helga's character are very refreshing * The Book Bag on Kin *If the combination of Vikings, mystery and murder sound good, then this is the book for you . . . If you're in a Scandi-noir mood, and willing to leap back through the centuries, then this is a book which will reward a reading; I, for one, look forward to the further adventures of Helga Finnsdottir * Sci-Fi and Fantasy Reviews on Kin *I was completely swept away . . . couldn't put it down . . . completely beguiling . . . I would definitely have no hesitation in recommending this and I look forward to seeing where Helga's adventures lead us to next * Lynn's Book Blog on Kin *This series is set to be a huge success not least because its leading lady is one of the smartest and funniest you will encounter * The Madwoman in the Attic on Kin *It had everything I look for in a book . . . I highly recommend this book to anyone who likes mysteries / crime stories with a sprinkle of Norse mythology and who enjoys reading stories full of flawed characters * Unfiltered Tales on Kin *Compelling reading * The Gin Book Club *A fantastic introduction . . . An enjoyable read with a good sense of suspense and an intriguing backdrop * The Little Book Owl on Kin *Compelling blend of historical fiction and crime mystery * Bibliosanctum on KIN *A highly readable Viking family murder, with an engaging heroine and convincing historical detail. Recommended * Promoting Crime on Kin *

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Book Synopsis'[A] lively, entertaining blend of murder mystery and supernatural adventure' GEORGE R.R. MARTINShould you find yourself in need of a discreet investigation, think of Jesperson and Lane . . .For several years Miss Lane was companion, collaborator and friend to the lady known to the Psychical Society only as Miss X - until she discovered that Miss X was actually a fraud. Now Miss Lane works with Mr Jasper Jesperson as a consulting detective, but the cases are not as plentiful as they might be and money is getting tight - until a wife's concern for her husband's nocturnal ramblings piques their interest, and mediums begin to disappear all over London.'A gloriously entertaining mystery story full of twists and turns . . . Tuttle executes it with a delicate touch and great elan' ASTOUNDING YARNSThere is only one team with the imagination and intelligence to uncover the nefarious purpose behind the vanished psychics and the somnambulist's wanderings.Jesperson and Lane: at your service.Trade ReviewTuttle does a lovely job of putting us back in the foggy streets of Victorian London in this lively, entertaining blend of murder mystery and supernatural adventure. Arthur Conan Doyle would have approved * GEORGE R.R. MARTIN, bestselling author of The Game of Thrones *Lisa Tuttle has been writing remarkable, chilling short stories and powerful, haunting novels for many years now, and doing it so easily and so well that one almost takes it, and her, for granted * Neil Gaiman on Lisa Tuttle *A wonderful mystical journey through the darkened rooms of Victorian séances and stagecraft - beautifully written and researched. I absolutely loved it * ALISON LITTLEWOOD, author of Mistletoe and Richard & Judy bestseller A Cold Season on The Somnambulist and the Psychic Thief *A fitting tale of intrigue that makes for a thoroughly enjoyable read . . . thrilling and entertaining story. 9/10 * STARBURST MAGAZINE on The Somnambulist and the Psychic Thief *Both comical and exciting, this is a delight of a read, and when a new case emerges on the horizon of the final page, it makes you want to urge the author to write the duo's second set of adventures faster so we can feast on it as soon as possible * Maxim Jakubowski, Love Reading *Lisa Tuttle has created a most engaging detective duo in Jasper Jesperson and Miss Lane ... an intriguing and thoroughly enjoyable mystery * Mark Douglas Home, author of The Sea Detective and The Woman Who Walked Into The Sea *Tuttle's delivery is impeccable and "The Somnambulist and the Psychic Thief" is an enjoyable romp that's a continuous pleasure to read . . . As an opening to the series "The Somnambulist and the Psychic Thief" works remarkably well so it'll be interesting seeing where she takes the series next. * UPCOMING4.ME on The Somnambulist and the Psychic Thief *[Lisa Tuttle] has a prize-winning knack of doing what a lot of fantasy writers can only dream of: making the impossible seem everyday, and writing legend in such a way that it seems like a very present and nerve-tingling possibility * SCOTS MAGAZINE on The Somnambulist and the Psychic Thief *An easy read, with the plot cracking along at a terrific pace . . . a fun dance through spiritualism and Victoriana with a lot of heart and soul * Book Geek *An enjoyable first mystery in the Jesperson and Lane series. Well plotted and written * MURDER, MYSTERY & MORE on The Somnambulist and the Psychic Thief *I really did enjoy the characters of Lane and Jesperson - they are worth getting to know . . . I do hope that there is more to come about this pair of investigators * BOOKS AND MORE BOOKS on The Somnambulist and the Psychic Thief *Zips along, with peril, a real, melodramatic villain - you can almost here the moustache twirling and hear his laughter - a truly evil plot and a dramatic denouement . . . easily give[s] Holmes and Watson a run for their money * BLUE BOOK BALLOON on The Somnambulist and the Psychic Thief *The mystery was intriguing, the inclusion of psychic powers surprising, and the characters absolutely lovely. I found myself slowing down when reading this one, just so it would last a little longer. * HIDING BOOKS on The Somnambulist and the Psychic Thief *The book is beautifully written [and] very well researched. If you like a good tale, well told, or if you like a strong female protagonist, or if you like to get in on the ground floor of what is set to be one of the most entertaining detective series of the decade ... read this book * JEANETTE GREAVES on The Somnambulist and the Psychic Thief *A well-written, entertaining mystery and solid series opener. I look forward to reading the next book and have a feeling this series will get better with every instalment * ART AND SOUL on The Somnambulist and the Psychic Thief *A gloriously entertaining mystery story full of twists and turns . . . Tuttle executes it with a delicate touch and great elan * ASTOUNDING YARNS on The Somnambulist and the Psychic Thief *A great story . . . Two great main characters and a lovely atmosphere throughout the book * BLODEUEDD on The Somnambulist and the Psychic Thief *Smart and entertaining fiction that has fun with the touchstones of Victorian literature - Wilkie Collins and Arthur Conan Doyle are both name-checked, and have clearly influenced Tuttle's atmosphere and characterisation- while also exploring, in a light-hearted, light-touch way, what lies behind the curtain. * SFX on The Somnambulist and the Psychic Thief *A fantastic first instalment to what I hope will be a long running series . . . Miss Lane is a delight; independent, resourceful and free thinking and Jesperson and his mother are fantastically drawn . . . This is the first book I've read by Lisa Tuttle but it certainly won't be the last * LISA READS BOOKS on The Somnambulist and the Psychic Thief *If you like detective stories, then this is a wonderful addition to not only that genre but with the twists and turns hinting at the supernatural as well * FLICKERING MYTH on The Somnambulist and the Psychic Thief *The Somnambulist And The Psychic Thief is a great read and definitely a series worth pursuing. It looks like it will make a good regular read alongside my other favourite sleuths * SF CROWSNEST on The Somnambulist and the Psychic Thief *The story zips along in entertaining and enjoyable way, and it is very well written. The characters have previously appeared in some of Lisa Tuttle's shorter fiction, and the novel seems set up for a series. I certainly hope so * HISTORICAL NOVEL SOCIETY on The Somnambulist and the Psychic Thief *A fantastic blend of Victorian-era detective fiction and the (possibly) supernatural * SCIFI NOW on The Somnambulist and the Psychic Thief *Excellent! * JULIET E. McKENNA, No. 1 bestselling author of The Green Man's Heir on The Somnambulist and the Psychic Thief *A solid beginning to a new series . . . If you enjoy the Independent Victorian Lady Detective genre (I know I do) then this one is worth adding to your Borrowbox library * KINGSTON LIBRARIES on The Somnambulist and the Psychic Thief *A delightful pairing of Sherlockian mystery and Victorian occult tale . . . Lisa Tuttle is a fantastic writer whose nuanced characters and flawless prose combine with a mastery of genre conventions that allow her to subvert them brilliantly * SEBASTIAN DE CASTELL, bestselling author of The Greatcoats series, Sebastian de Castell, author of The Greatcoats series *Tuttle is as skilled in prose as she is in characterisation. Spending time with Mr Jesperson and Miss Lane, and the rest of the characters, was a delight. Their relationship - a bit of a Mulder and Scully - is expertly drawn. The prose was an easy read, with the plot cracking along at a terrific pace * THE FORGOTTEN GEEK on The Somnambulist and the Psychic Thief *Tuttle's powerful prose sparkles and leaps off the page - she perfectly captures the repressed nature of Victorian times * BRITISH FANTASY SOCIETY on The Somnambulist and the Psychic Thief *The Somnambulist and the Psychic Thief was a great start to series . . . I had fun, and it was great to get back to Victorian-era detecting. * LYNN’S BOOKS on The Somnambulist and the Psychic Thief *The writing has an effortless-seeming clarity that makes the pages fly by. The author manages the disparate elements of the plot like an expert juggler . . . I loved it so much that I let out a happy little yip and hit request immediately when I saw its sequel pop up * STEWARTRY on The Somnambulist and the Psychic Thief *It kept me hooked. This series definitely has potential and with the dramatic way it ended, I will be picking up the next in the series * UNDER THE COVERS on The Somnambulist and the Psychic Thief *The characters are engaging . . . the atmosphere and setting up are the dynamics that are the focus of this book, and the characterisations really shine * GIRL WHO READS on The Somnambulist and the Psychic Thief *This book is now in the running for my "title of the year" award, currently neck and neck with Time Travelling with a Hamster! The Somnambulist and the Psychic Thief is a well-written, entertaining mystery and solid series opener. I have a feeling this series will get better with every instalment * CLAIRE HUSTON on The Somnambulist and the Psychic Thief *A stylish, distinctive storyteller * WASHINGTON POST BOOK WORLD on Lisa Tuttle *This John W. Campbell Award-winning author remains one of fantasy's best * PUBLISHER’S WEEKLY on Lisa Tuttle *Her ability as a storyteller is equalled only by her skill in portraying her characters with a few, precise words * SF SITE on Lisa Tuttle *

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Book SynopsisLonglisted for the Man Booker Prize 2016Observer Best Fiction of 2016Den of Geek Top Books of 2016Timothy Buchannan buys an abandoned house on the edge of an isolated village on the coast, sight unseen. When he sees the state of it he questions the wisdom of his move, but starts to renovate the house for his wife, Lauren to join him there.When the villagers see smoke rising from the chimney of the neglected house they are disturbed and intrigued by the presence of the incomer, intrigue that begins to verge on obsession. And the longer Timothy stays, the more deeply he becomes entangled in the unsettling experience of life in the small village. Ethan, a fisherman, is particularly perturbed by Timothy’s arrival, but accedes to Timothy’s request to take him out to sea. They set out along the polluted coastline, hauling in weird fish from the contaminated sea, catches that are bought in whole and removed from the village. Timothy starts to ask questions about the previous resident of his house, Perran, questions to which he receives only oblique answers and increasing hostility. As Timothy forges on despite the villagers’ animosity and the code of silence around Perran, he starts to question what has brought him to this place and is forced to confront a painful truth. The Many is an unsettling tale that explores the impact of loss and the devastation that hits when the foundations on which we rely are swept away.Trade ReviewThe Many unfolds like an unsettling dream, shifting illogically, asking the reader to accept leaps from reality to what seems like it may be fantasy (or may be a matter of perception). But it's not just a strange fable, there is humanity in it too: Ethan's palpable grief for Perran; the locals' struggle to adapt to a world in which their former livelihoods have become obsolete; the touches of tenderness in Timothy and Lauren's scenes together. Its portrayal of a community left behind by technology and bureaucracy, suspicious of the threat represented by 'outsiders', is recognisable and timely – perhaps even more so now than the author may have intended. * Learn This Phrase *Though it was perhaps not written with this in mind, reading the novel during the nightmarish toxicity of the EU Referendum gives it an interesting prescience in its exploration of a failing, unwelcoming community's reaction to an outsider, the decaying environment that surrounds them both and the looming warnings of a distant bureaucracy. That fishing quotas, ecology and environmental regulations are also part of the ongoing debate feeds into that sense of a discussion in microcosm. The sense of loss that permeates here is not just related to the personal, but to the social and communal as well. * Film and Other Assorted Buffery *The sparse prose is dark and intense, strikingly written with a haunting quality that sends shivers through the soul. * neverimitate *This book is powerfully written and haunting. Always teetering on the edge of the gothic, Menmuir describes a coastal community that is dreamlike, slightly out of focus, with its own rules that Timothy never grasps. At the same time, it is rooted in the real world: remote bureaucracy, plummeting fish stocks and maritime pollution have blighted the lives of the fishermen. * Blue Book Balloon *Menmuir’s homespun horror has flashes of Daphne du Maurier’s ghost-gothic and John Wyndham’s dystopia while displaying its own individuality and flair … Menmuir steers a steady course; the result is profound and discomfiting, and deserving of multiple readings. -- Catherine Taylor * The Guardian *At about the two-thirds point, I started to realize that I was not reading a conventional, if slightly off-kilter and moody, story about a man having a hard time getting his life back together in a semi-hostile village. No, The Many is a horrific, beautifully horrific, tale that I cannot shake, as much as I may like to. * The Mookse and the Gripes *It creates an effective sense of tension and psychological suspense along the lines of Henry James’ The Turn of the Screw but passages where the men are out fishing in the gloom also invoke a feelings of intense meditation and a primal self-sufficiency similar to Hemingway’s The Old Man and the Sea. I was slowly drawn into the novel’s bizarre climate of secrecy and impending doom. The Many is a brisk, impactful novel which poignantly portrays grief, solitude and an inhibited state of consciousness. * Lonesome Reader *an intriguing first novel -- Fiona Wilson * The Times *This is a novel that has to be read at one go but one of those rare stories that once you have reached the end you start reading it all over again. There are moments one has to pause and wonder if it is reminiscent of similar writing in the past and then realise it would be unfair to compare The Many to any other writing. Wyl Menmuir’s style is wholly original, it grips one with its exquisitely chiselled style to create a stunningly beautiful and memorable novel much like the Cornish coast is. -- Jaya Bhattacharji Rose * Confessions of an avid bibliophile *I found myself totally gripped. The kind of book where you end it still wanting answers and yet are unsure of the questions. It’s a wonderful book and the first book I’ve finished this year that I immediately wanted to read again. * Information Overlord *A parable on ecological destruction, a commentary on monotony and parochialness, an obscure examination of sorrow, an investigation into the mysterious workings of the psyche – The Many is weird and disorienting, yes, but original and wonderful too. * On Art and Aesthetics *Paperback of the Week It would be wrong to give away the precise reasons for his protagonist’s state, but as Menmuir’s allegory becomes decipherable, it is increasingly affecting, and the moment when we understand how the bay and its darkly looming ships might be the warped echo of an earlier, shattering scene is one of great power. -- Stephanie Cross * The Observer *He deserves 10 out of 10 when it comes to the creation of atmosphere, and Menmuir can certainly write… A writer to watch. * The Independent *If it is possible to describe a book as being rich on spare detail then The Many is it, like a stock reduced to its very essence, and I suspect it was this lack of extraneous waffle and digression in the company of Wyl Menmuir's beguiling writing style that grabbed my attention and kept me wedded to this novel in the days immediately after Port Eliot festival. * Dovegreyreader *An intriguing, evocative and formally ambitious debut. -- Luke Brown * Financial Times *

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Book SynopsisA flooded world. A floating circus. Two women in search of a home. North lives on a circus boat with her beloved bear, keeping a secret that could capsize her life.Callanish lives alone in her house in the middle of the ocean, tending the graves of those who die at sea. As penance for a terrible mistake, she has become a gracekeeper.A chance meeting between the two draws them magnetically to one another - and to the promise of a new life. But the waters are treacherous, and the tide is against them.'The Gracekeepers is enchanting and heart-tugging. If you love Margaret Atwood you'll love this' Sunday Telegraph'A wondrous read' Stylist'Clever and original' The Times'Truly magical' HeatTrade ReviewThis is truly an extraordinary novel...This has a delightful fantasy quality in the mould of The Snow Child or The Night Circus... Memorable and captivating * Red *

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