Historical fantasy

Trade Review “No doubt the charm, humor, and intelligence of Wrede’s writing will continue to enthrall.” —Publishers Weekly “High-style fantasy and adventure.” —The New York Times “Wrede’s characters are understated but complex . . . and the world-building is generously spiced with political and magical mysteries, perils, and conflicts.” —The Horn Book

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Trade Review“Wrede’s delightful voice is all her own.” —School Library Journal“No doubt the charm, humor, and intelligence of Wrede’s writing will continue to enthrall.” —Publishers Weekly“High-style fantasy and adventure.” —The New York Times

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Book SynopsisThe legend of King Arthur lives on...It is several years now since Arthur, the Last Dragon of Britain, has set foot on home soil. Roaming the Land of the Denes, he has not only engaged in brutal and bloody conflict with the barbaric Geats but he has also unearthed the most evil force within the royal court of Heorot. And, under the guidance of Stormbringer, the mighty Sae Dene king, he has honed his skills as a commander. Now the time has come for Arthur to brave the dangers of the frozen north as he and a band of daring sea-faring warriors prepare to embark on his ultimate voyage - to return to Britain and to create a kingdom of his own...Trade ReviewHume brings the bloody, violent, conniving world vividly to life...will appeal to those who thrill to Game of Thrones and other tales of intersecting, ever-warring, noble lineages * Kirkus Review *Hume deftly navigates the Arthurian legends, populating them with likable and despicable characters, and casting them in a fully realized historical setting * Publishers Weekly *Historical fiction of the most bloodthirsty and roistering kind * Australian Bookseller & Publishers Magazine *Exciting, violent and bloody... Up there with Conn Iggulden and Bernard Cornwell -- www.lovereading.co.ukIt's a slice of history that's totally, utterly believable. Magnificent -- www.booksmonthly.co.uk

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Book SynopsisA decade has passed since the death of Caradoc, King of the Dumnonii tribe, and his friend, Flavius Magnus Maximus. Britain is battered by Pict invaders, and centurion Constantinus and his legionnaires are fighting them to the death. Maximus''s daughter, Lady Severa, holds the key to the throne of the High King of the Britons and when she is threatened with abduction, Constantinus escorts her to the safety of Tintagel. Agreeing to marry her, he is crowned the High King, and Severa bears him two sons, Ambrosius and Uther. But, as the ruler of Britain, Constantinus is poisoned by greed and jealousy, and his thirst for greatness in the Roman Empire will cost him dear...Trade ReviewHume brings the bloody, violent, conniving world vividly to life...will appeal to those who thrill to Game of Thrones and other tales of intersecting, ever-warring, noble lineages * Kirkus Review *Hume deftly navigates the Arthurian legends, populating them with likable and despicable characters, and casting them in a fully realized historical setting * Publishers Weekly *Historical fiction of the most bloodthirsty and roistering kind * Australian Bookseller & Publishers Magazine *Exciting, violent and bloody... Up there with Conn Iggulden and Bernard Cornwell * www.lovereading.co.uk *It's a slice of history that's totally, utterly believable. Magnificent * www.booksmonthly.co.uk *

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Book SynopsisAfter Alice by Gregory Maguire, the bestselling author of WICKED, is a wonderful retelling of what happened next after Alice disappeared down the rabbit hole. An entertaining spin on Lewis Caroll''s classic tale of Alice in Wonderland, this novel will delight fans of Angela Carter. When Alice fell down the rabbit-hole, she found Wonderland as rife with inconsistent rules and abrasive egos as the world she left behind. But how did Victorian Oxford react to Alice''s disappearance?Gregory Maguire turns his imagination to the question of underworlds, undergrounds, underpinnings -and understandings old and new, offering an inventive spin on Carroll''s enduring tale. Ada, a friend mentioned briefly in Alice''s Adventures in Wonderland, sets out to visit Alice but, arriving a moment too late, tumbles down the rabbit-hole herself. Ada brings to Wonderland her own imperfect apprehension of cause and effect as she embarks on an odyssey to fiTrade ReviewThoughtful and disconcertingly memorable... This is a feast for the mind, and readers will ruminate on it long after turning the last page * Publishers Weekly (starred review) *Maguire effortlessly leaps between the absurd illusions of Wonderland and the building suspense of the search for the children in antique Oxford... [He] closes in on some big, haunting ideas himself, about the loss of loved ones and religious faith, about cultural and romantic subjugations, and about the evolutionary value of imagination... [A] harvest of delightfully stated observations, [confronting] weighty themes with a light touch and exquisite, lovely language. [Maguire's] playful vocabulary may be ­Carroll-esque, but his keen wit is closer to Monty Python, with a fine, unforced sense of play... his erudition is a joy, his sense of fun infectious * New York Times Book Review *A refreshing look at such a well-known and loved classic * WordsOfaPaige *

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Book Synopsis **Winner of the British Fantasy Award for Best Fantasy Novel** The first book in the award-winning Winnowing Flame trilogy. Epic fantasy for fans of Robin Hobb and Jay Kristoff.''Fantasy adventure at its very best'' Starburst ''Williams excels at eldritch world-building'' Guardian ''An original new voice in heroic fantasy'' Adrian Tchaikovsky The great city of Ebora once glittered with gold. Now its streets are stalked by wolves. Tormalin the Oathless has no taste for sitting around waiting to die while the realm of his storied ancestors falls to pieces - talk about a guilt trip. Better to be amongst the living, where there are taverns full of women and wine.When eccentric explorer, Lady Vincenza ''Vintage'' de Grazon, offers him employment, he sees an easy way out. Even when they are joined by a fugitive witch with a tendency to Trade ReviewAbsolutely phenomenal fantasy -- Adrian TchaikovskyWilliams portrays her characters as flawed but humane, propels the plot with expert pace, and excels at eldritch world-building * Guardian *There is so much to praise about The Ninth Rain: the worldbuilding is top-notch, the plot is gripping and the characters just get better and better. A sublime read * SFX *Yet again, Williams has created an addictive and coherent fantasy world filled with all sorts of deliciously interesting things within it... This is fantasy adventure at its very best. Go check it out * Starburst *The Ninth Rain is a fast-paced and vibrant fantasy romp through a new world, full of people you want to spend time with and enemies you'd happily run from * SciFiNow *Jen Williams takes us on another great adventure. Fresh, engaging, and full of heart -- Peter NewmanA cracking story that grips you by the heart and doesn't let go -- Edward CoxA very original fantasy world * Story Collector *The Ninth Rain is full of tropes written in a different and clever way. The drop-dead gorgeous man? He's the source of comedy. Immortals living off human blood but dying as well because of it? Yes, sounds like vampires, although they're not called as such in this book. The threat of zombies and zombie-infestation? They're present too, but not the usual plot line that involves a virus or what not. It was all so brilliantly done' * The Travelling Bibliophile *Brilliantly creative fantasy * This Northern Gal *

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Book Synopsis''Like all the best vintages Jack Lark has aged to perfection. Scarred, battered and bloody, his story continues to enthral'' ANTHONY RICHESHistorical military fiction at its finest, for fans of Bernard Cornwell''s Sharpe series, Matthew Harffy and Patrick O''Brian. South Africa, 1871. Jack Lark no longer walks alone. With the worldly Anna Baker by his side, he travels to the Cape Colony diamond fields determined to seek their fortune - and an adventurous new life together. The journey north soon turns violent as tensions erupt between other hopeful diggers and a gang of Boer men. Everyone has their eye on the same elusive prize - and some will stop at nothing to get it. For Jack and Anna, unearthing a diamond is only half the battle. Getting out of the mines alive will prove far more difficult - and dangerous. And when the worst happens, Jack finds himself tested as no enemy, no man and no war has evTrade ReviewBrilliant -- Bernard CornwellCollard ... evokes the horror of that era with great brio. Enthralling * The Times *Dusty deserts, showdowns under the blistering sun, bloodthirsty bandoleros, rough whisky and rougher men. Bullets fly, emotions run high and treachery abounds in The Lost Outlaw. This is classic Jack Lark in a classic western. Paul Fraser Collard has done it again and delivered another exceptionally entertaining historical action adventure -- Matthew HarffyI love a writer who wears his history lightly enough for the story he's telling to blaze across the pages like this. Jack Lark is an unforgettable new hero -- Anthony RichesImpossible to put down... full of action and intrigue that leaves the reader thirsty for more * History… the Interesting Bits *You feel and experience all the emotions and the blood, sweat and tears that Jack does... I devoured it in one sitting * Parmenion Books *Expect ferocious, bloody action from the first page. Fast-paced, compelling, and with more villains than a Clint Eastwood classic, this unputdownable novel strongly reminded me of that legend of western writers, Louis L'Amour. A cracking read! -- Ben KaneA tale of despair, triumph, and disaster amongst the dry diamond workings of the du Toit pan . . . plenty of twists and turns * Historical Novel Society *

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Book Synopsis'Like all the best vintages Jack Lark has aged to perfection. Scarred, battered and bloody, his story continues to enthral' ANTHONY RICHES Historical military fiction at its finest, for fans of Bernard Cornwell's Sharpe series, Matthew Harffy and Patrick O'Brian. South Africa, 1871. Jack Lark no longer walks alone. With the worldly Anna Baker by his side, he travels to the Cape Colony diamond fields determined to seek their fortune - and an adventurous new life together. The journey north soon turns violent as tensions erupt between other hopeful diggers and a gang of Boer men. Everyone has their eye on the same elusive prize - and some will stop at nothing to get it. For Jack and Anna, unearthing a diamond is only half the battle. Getting out of the mines alive will prove far more difficult - and dangerous. And when the worst happens, Jack finds himself tested as no enemy, no man and no war has ever before. Pr

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Book SynopsisThe Binding meets The Handmaid''s Tale - Discovering a book of dark and ancient power, a convent librarian must defend it with her life. Perfect for fans of dark academia and historical feminist fiction.''A wonderfully rich and absorbing tale'' Observer''Expertly crafted and beautifully told'' Jennifer Saint''All so good. I read it in two days flat, and wish I had spaced it out more'' ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ READER REVIEWBeatrice is the convent''s librarian. For years, she has shunned the company of her sisters, finding solace only with her manuscripts. Then, one carnival night, two women, bleeding and stricken, are abandoned outside the convent''s walls. Moments from death, one of them presses something into Beatrice''s hands: a bewitching book whose pages have a dangerous life of their own. But men of the faith want the book destroyed, and a zealous preacher has tracTrade ReviewA wonderfully rich and absorbing tale * Observer *This novel is chillingly good. * The Book Trail *Wonderfully atmospheric, this immersive tale grips the reader to the final page. * Woman & Home *A fascinating read for any fans of historical fiction, magical realism, intrigue and mystery, dealing with themes of female power, patriarchal religion and the power of books. * Somerset Life *Enchanting. The Book of Eve draws you into its rich, unsettling world from the first page and refuses to let go until the very end. Vividly drawn characters and a totally transporting setting with timely undertones, like The Handmaid's Tale meets The Devil and the Dark Water. -- Bobby Palmer, author of Isaac and the EggExpertly crafted and beautifully told, this is an intriguing tale of ancient power and mystery with female strength and solidarity at its core. Haunting, magical and moving. -- Jennifer Saint, author of ARIADNE and ELEKTRAWhat a spellbinding tale! I can't remember the last time I was so captivated by a novel that I had to put everything else on hold to read it. Tense and claustrophobic, with a creeping sense of dread that builds throughout the story, The Book of Eve is a beautifully written, utterly enthralling read. -- Karen Coles, author of THE ASYLUMCan a book be both fast-paced and a slow-burn? I read Meg Clothier's The Book of Eve in a quick burst, enchanted by the plot, the mysterious manuscript, and the unfolding relationships between characters. Weeks later I'm still thinking about the compelling and complex treatments of themes of knowledge, community, agency and kinship. At times brutal and haunting, this is a beautiful book and one whose ideas resound long after the final page is turned. -- Melissa Fu, author of PEACH BLOSSOM SPRINGWhat an extraordinary book - rich in historical detail and full of esoteric knowledge yet wearing its learning lightly while tapping into a rage that's universal at men's endless attempts to control the doings and thinkings of women. It's an education hidden in a tense, compelling, anger-driven narrative, Beatrice and Diana both knock-out characters. No mean feat! -- Harriet Tyce, author of BLOOD ORANGE and IT ENDS AT MIDNIGHTThe Book of Eve completely captured me with its intricately and delicately woven world, filled with strange and entrancing magic. A powerful novel that grips with its compelling mystery and unforgettable heroine. -- Eleanor Shearer, author of RIVER SING ME HOMEThe Book of Eve is a dark, magical tale of women called upon to find their strength and sisterhood in order to protect an ancient power. Mysterious, bewitching and beautiful. -- Elizabeth Lee, author CUNNING WOMENA ravishing, erudite feminist hijack of Renaissance Florence and the Bonfire of the Vanities -- Alice Albinia, author of CWENA truly beautiful book, brimming with unsettling magic and the love of literature. It's erudite and bewitching, with a heroine I will never forget. Like a feminist Name of the Rose. -- Costanza Casati, author of CLYTEMNESTRA

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Book SynopsisThe Binding meets The Handmaid''s Tale - Discovering a book of dark and ancient power, a convent librarian must defend it with her life. Perfect for fans of dark academia and historical feminist fiction.''A wonderfully rich and absorbing tale'' Observer''Expertly crafted and beautifully told'' Jennifer Saint''All so good. I read it in two days flat, and wish I had spaced it out more'' ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ READER REVIEWBeatrice is the convent''s librarian. For years, she has shunned the company of her sisters, finding solace only with her manuscripts. Then, one carnival night, two women, bleeding and stricken, are abandoned outside the convent''s walls. Moments from death, one of them presses something into Beatrice''s hands: a bewitching book whose pages have a dangerous life of their own.But men of the faith want the book destroyed, and a zealous preacher has trackedTrade ReviewA wonderfully rich and absorbing tale * Observer *This novel is chillingly good. * The Book Trail *Wonderfully atmospheric, this immersive tale grips the reader to the final page. * Woman & Home *A fascinating read for any fans of historical fiction, magical realism, intrigue and mystery, dealing with themes of female power, patriarchal religion and the power of books. * Somerset Life *Enchanting. The Book of Eve draws you into its rich, unsettling world from the first page and refuses to let go until the very end. Vividly drawn characters and a totally transporting setting with timely undertones, like The Handmaid's Tale meets The Devil and the Dark Water. -- Bobby Palmer, author of Isaac and the EggExpertly crafted and beautifully told, this is an intriguing tale of ancient power and mystery with female strength and solidarity at its core. Haunting, magical and moving. -- Jennifer Saint, author of ARIADNE and ELEKTRAWhat a spellbinding tale! I can't remember the last time I was so captivated by a novel that I had to put everything else on hold to read it. Tense and claustrophobic, with a creeping sense of dread that builds throughout the story, The Book of Eve is a beautifully written, utterly enthralling read. -- Karen Coles, author of THE ASYLUMCan a book be both fast-paced and a slow-burn? I read Meg Clothier's The Book of Eve in a quick burst, enchanted by the plot, the mysterious manuscript, and the unfolding relationships between characters. Weeks later I'm still thinking about the compelling and complex treatments of themes of knowledge, community, agency and kinship. At times brutal and haunting, this is a beautiful book and one whose ideas resound long after the final page is turned. -- Melissa Fu, author of PEACH BLOSSOM SPRINGWhat an extraordinary book - rich in historical detail and full of esoteric knowledge yet wearing its learning lightly while tapping into a rage that's universal at men's endless attempts to control the doings and thinkings of women. It's an education hidden in a tense, compelling, anger-driven narrative, Beatrice and Diana both knock-out characters. No mean feat! -- Harriet Tyce, author of BLOOD ORANGE and IT ENDS AT MIDNIGHTThe Book of Eve completely captured me with its intricately and delicately woven world, filled with strange and entrancing magic. A powerful novel that grips with its compelling mystery and unforgettable heroine. -- Eleanor Shearer, author of RIVER SING ME HOMEThe Book of Eve is a dark, magical tale of women called upon to find their strength and sisterhood in order to protect an ancient power. Mysterious, bewitching and beautiful. -- Elizabeth Lee, author CUNNING WOMENA ravishing, erudite feminist hijack of Renaissance Florence and the Bonfire of the Vanities -- Alice Albinia, author of CWENA truly beautiful book, brimming with unsettling magic and the love of literature. It's erudite and bewitching, with a heroine I will never forget. Like a feminist Name of the Rose. -- Costanza Casati, author of CLYTEMNESTRA

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Book SynopsisFrom the million-copy bestselling author of THE CHRONICLES OF ST MARY'S. 'Jodi Taylor is quite simply the Queen of Time' C. K. MCDONNELL * Don't miss the brand new Time Police novel - KILLING TIME - coming soon, available to pre-order now * --- Twenty-four hours is a long Time in the Time Police. When a fateful mission to apprehend a minor criminal selling dodgy historical artefacts goes very wrong, Commander Hay faces the longest day of her career. An officer is attacked within TPHQ. A prisoner is murdered. And investigations are about to lead to the one place where no officer can legally tread. Worst of all, trouble is brewing for Luke, Jane and Matthew as a shocking revelation threatens to tear Team Weird apart for good....FOR FANS OF DOCTOR WHO, THE THURSDAY MURDER CLUB AND JASPER FFORDE.Readers love the Time Police:

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Book SynopsisA supplement for Jackals, introducing new rites, talents, and virtues for players as well as an exploration of the history and cultures of the Zaharets.Jackals: Travellers on the War Road is a supplement exploring the regions of the Zaharets and the cultures established in Jackals. It expands the lore for each of the four cultures introduced in the core book Luathi, Gerwa, Melkoni, and Trauj describing their various tribes, clans, and city-states, their beliefs, strongholds, and day-to-day lives, adding more nuance and depth to the world and giving players more ways to personalize their characters. New rites, virtues, and talents provide further customization options, while adventure hooks scattered throughout the book hint at new menaces to be battled, new challenges to be overcome... and new glories to be won!

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Book SynopsisA supplement for Heirs to Heresy, introducing new knightly orders, mighty relics, mysteries, and foes both mortal and supernatural.The shadow that hangs over Europe, already dark, is growing ever darker. Branded a heretic and turned fugitive, you are on the run. Your enemies are many, your friends few and trust scarce. The knightly orders with whom you once fought side-by-side the Hospitallers, Teutonics, and others are potential allies but, having witnessed your cruel fate, do they still keep faith with the Templars or have they fallen to doubt and fear?Heirs to Heresy: Faith & Fear is a supplement for the roleplaying game of the fall of the Knights Templar that unfolds like the labyrinthine Templar conspiracies themselves. Previously unknown foes stalk city streets and forest paths alike, while unexpected allies come to the fore in the form of new playable knightly orders. Ancient relics and new mysteries abound, allowing players to dive more

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Book SynopsisNaida is living a lie.A peerless battlefield surgeon. A talisman for the army. A symbol of hope in an impossible, grinding war.A fraud.Society, led by the queen, has long held that the Esselrode people and their abilities are inherently, irredeemably evil, a truth which Naida has been brought up to believe. But as one of them, feeling compelled to use her powers again and again to heal those on the brink of death, it''s hard to accept. It''s even harder to live a lie, conflicted about her hidden identity, when the truth could save lives.Taken from the battlefield where she thrives to a court where her life hangs ever more precariously in the balance, Naida is about to learn that there are even greater secrets, and conspiracies, afoot . . . and that her dangerous truth could change the course of a nation . . .James Barclay is back with a brand-new standalone adventure which will tug on your heartstrings and ke

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Book SynopsisFour sides. Two battles. One War. As the world begins to learn how divided it really is, a small group of immortals must come together to save... everything.

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Book SynopsisThe tyranny of the gods is absolute, and they are capricious, malevolent and almost all-powerful, playing cruel games with the fates of mortals for their own ends . . . A vibrant and powerful epic set against an alternate Bronze Age, this tale of gods, men and monsters, conspiracy and war, is a rich, compelling and original read from a master of the historical and fantasy genres. The people caught up in toils of the gods are merely trying to survive. Victims of vicious whims, trapped by their circumstances or pushed beyond what the mortal frame can bear, a handful of god-touched mortals - a scribe, a warlord, a dancer and a child - are about to be brought together in a conspiracy of their own. A conspiracy to reach the heavens, and take down the corrupt and aging gods . . . who are already facing troubles of their own . . . An epic which draws on the Greek mythology of gods and heroes, this new trilogy is a must read for fans of Dan Simmons and Madel

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Book SynopsisAspects is the great John M. Ford''s last novel, unpublished in his lifetime. It is a fantasy novel unlike any other, filled with politics and manners, swords and sorcerous machine guns, ancient empires and the onward march of progress. The master author''s lost work is finally here.A forbidden romance.Magic running rampant.A monarchy coming to an end.The world is changing, and with it a nation begins the process of dismantling the royal family and building a democracy in their place. A delicate and dangerous task, which sparks political intrigue in the halls of Parliament and power struggles that draw in the nobility, Archmages, and idealists alike . . . even before the Gods choose to meddle, in favour of old hierarchies. Against this backdrop of political turmoil comes the powerful story of two lovers torn apart by the fragile new system . . . and a lost woman, overlooked in the power struggles, striving to find the h

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Book SynopsisThis is the sixth and final volume in the acclaimed Song of the Shattered Sands series, in which an orphan girl grows up to avenge her murdered rebel mother and overthrow the ancient, corrupt and magical regime: the twelve kings of Sharakai.Trade ReviewTwelve Kings in Sharakhai is the gateway to what promises to be an intricate and exotic tale. The characters are well defined and have lives and histories that extend past the boundaries of the plot. The culture is well fleshed out and traditional gender roles are exploded. Çeda and Emre share a relationship seldom explored in fantasy, one that will be tried to the utmost as similar ideals provoke them to explore different paths. I expect that this universe will continue to expand in Beaulieu's skillful prose. Wise readers will hop on this train now, as the journey promises to be breathtaking -- Robin Hobb * author of The Assassin’s Apprentice *The protagonist, pit-fighter Çeda, is driven but not cold, and strong but not shallow. And the initial few scenes of violence and sex, while very engaging, soon give way to a much richer plot. Beaulieu is excellent at keeping a tight rein on the moment-to-moment action and building up the tension and layers of mysteries - (9/10 Rating) * SciFiNow *I am impressed... An exceedingly inventive story in a lushly realized dark setting that is not your uncle's Medieval Europe. I'll be looking forward to the next installment -- Glen Cook * author of The Black Company *Bradley P. Beaulieu's new fantasy epic is filled with memorable characters, enticing mysteries, and a world so rich in sensory detail that you can feel the desert breeze in your hair as you read. Çeda is hands-down one of the best heroines in the genre-strong, resourceful, and fiercely loyal to friends and family. Fantasy doesn't get better than this! -- C. S. Friedman * author of The Coldfire Trilogy *Exotic, sumptuous and incredibly entertaining, Beaulieu has created memorable characters in a richly imagined world -- Michael J. Sullivan * author of The Riyria Chronicles *Beaulieu's fantasy worlds are well-imagined and richly drawn...the kind you want to keep visiting * Kirkus Speculative Reading List for September 2015 *Twelve Kings is the best new Epic Fantasy I've read in years -- Mark Yon * SFFWorld *A memorable heroine, a poetically told tale of revenge, and superb world-building make Twelve Kings in Sharakhai a splendid read -- John Marco * author of The Jackal of Nar and The Eyes of God *Bradley Beaulieu has crafted a rich, fascinating world, filled it with compelling characters, and blended them into an epic tale that grabbed my attention on the first page and refused to let go. I look forward to more stories of Sharakhai -- David B. Coe/D.B. Jackson * author of Rules of Ascension and Thieftaker *It's hard to take a desert novel and not draw comparisons to Dune, but Beaulieu manages to create a rich, totally individual world, teeming with wonders and wondrous characters. Çeda and Emre and their relationship rings true and draws the reader on through magic, vengeance, and above all, excitement. A hellacious start to what looks like the next towering epic fantasy -- John Hornor Jacobs * author of The Incorruptibles *Crammed with intrigue, suspense, and stunning action sequences. Engaging characters and masterful world-building -- Howard Andrew Jones * author of The Desert of Souls *Pit fighting smugglers high on steroid-like flower petals alongside immortal plutocrats, who will do anything to keep on living, make this blood and sand fueled epic fantasy something to behold. Trust me. It'll bowl-yer ass off -- Justin Landon * Staffer’s Book Review and Tor.com *Brad Beaulieu's Twelve Kings in Sharakai isn't the same as the last epic fantasy you read. Like the desert sands of Sharakhai, this first volume of Beaulieu's new series is a constantly shifting narrative of betrayal and friendship, loyalty and vengeance. Leave the farm boys to their chickens and the scullions to their pots, because Çeda's bringing a knife to this fight. It's vivid and diverse, full of complex relationships, eye-opening magic, and world building for this new age of fantasy that's broken out of its medieval shackles -- Aidan Moher * A Dribble of Ink *A lavish epic featuring gods, gangs, gladiators and everything in-between. With its deliciously original magic system, vast new world, reckless heroine and sinister array of ageless villains, this is a must for fans of Brandon Sanderson -- Jared Shurin * Pornokitsch *

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Book SynopsisPaksenarrionPaks for shortwas somebody special. Never could she have followed her father''s orders and married the pig farmer down the road. Better a soldier''s life than a pig farmer''s wife, and so, though she knew that she could never go home again, Paks ran away to be a soldier. And so began an adventure destined to transform a simple Sheepfarmer''s Daughter into a hero fit to be chosen by the gods.Features an all-new introduction by the author!About Elizabeth Moon:Excellent plotting and characters support the utterly realistic action sequences: swift, jolting, confusing, and merciless. It's a corker!Kirkus ReviewsMoon has created a richly imagined universe of different cultures, replete with intriguing characters and the sense of unlimited possibility that characterizes the most appealing science fiction.School Library JournalRip-roaring action and intriguing science and tactics . . . [a] grand space opera tour de force.Publishers Weekly"[T]he first work of high heroic fantasy I''ve seen that has taken the work of Tolkien, assimilated it totally and deeply and absolutely, and produced something altogether new and yet incontestably based on the master... [Moon''s] military knowledge is impressive, her picture of life in a mercenary company most convincing. I''m deeply impressed."Judith Tarr

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Book SynopsisIn 1920s England, an American photographer is out to capture proof that fairies are real—despite the opposition of Sir Arthur Conan Doyle. In the 1920s, a country policeman, Constable Michael Walsmear, pushes his way into the London studio of Charles Castle, the world-famous American photographer, to show him some pictures. What Castle sees in Walsmear’s pictures is incredible. When he goes to Sir Arthur Conan Doyle for verification of the faerie images found on the negatives, Doyle tries to bribe Castle to destroy the pictures. But Castle will not be bought; he is out to discover the truth. And it is truth he finds in the small village of Burkinwell, a village built upon secrets, strange sexual practices, beautiful gardens, and true human nature.

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Book SynopsisFrom the Wall Street Journal bestselling author of the Kingfountain Series comes the first novel in a bold and richly imagined world. Theirs is a world of opposites. The privileged live in sky manors held aloft by a secretive magic known only as the Mysteries. Below, the earthbound poor are forced into factory work to maintain the engine of commerce. Only the wealthy can afford to learn the Mysteries, and they use their knowledge to further lock their hold on society. Cettie Pratt is a waif doomed to the world below, until an admiral attempts to adopt her. But in her new home in the clouds, not everyone treats her as one of the family. Sera Fitzempress is a princess born into power. She yearns to meet the orphan girl she has heard so much about, but her father deems the girl unworthy of his daughter’s curiosity. Neither girl feels that she belongs. Each seeks to break free of imposed rules. Now, as Cettie dreams of living above and as Sera is drawn to the world below, they will follow the paths of their own choosing. But both girls will be needed for the coming storm that threatens to overturn both their worlds.Trade Review“Wheeler opens the Harbinger Series by laying a solid foundation of imaginative steampunk fantasy world-building…A beautifully told tale that’s populated by characters worthy of investment and accessible to readers of all ages.” —Publishers Weekly “Storm Glass is a story rich with complex plot lines and in-depth characters. Mature readers will love the political intrigue and examination of societal class structure, while the mystery story, ghosts, and glimpses of magic make the novel more approachable to everyone…A stunning blend of Regency-style historical fiction and fantasy with some steampunk vibes. The effect is a rich world, reminiscent of our own history, but with enough magic to ensure that we are aware this isn’t our world at all. Fans of epic fantasy and historical fantasy will easily fall in love with this new series.” —Teenreads

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Book SynopsisBram Stoker kept secret a tale even more terrifying than Dracula. It begins among the Carpathian peaks, when an intrepid explorer discovers a mysterious golden box. She brings it back with her to the foggy streets of Victorian London, unaware of its dangerous power…or that an evil beyond imagining has already taken root in the city. Stoker, a successful theater manager but frustrated writer, is drawn into a deadly web spun by the wealthy founders of a mission house for the poor. Far from a safe haven, the mission harbors a dark and terrifying secret. To save the souls of thousands, Stoker—aided by the explorer and a match girl grieving the loss of her child—must pursue an enemy as ancient as the Saharan sands where it originated. Their journey will take them through the city’s overgrown graveyards and rat-infested tunnels and even onto the maiden voyage of the world’s first “unsinkable” ship…

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Book SynopsisWall Street Journal bestselling author Jeff Wheeler continues his wondrous Harbinger series in which two young women unite as two worlds approach the brink of war… Though relations between Princess Seraphin Fitzempress and her father have been strained, Sera’s royal position has remained unchallenged. Filled with self-doubt, she struggles to grasp the Mysteries—her greatest trial yet. An education in the enigmatic magic is a necessary one, should Sera plan to rise in her station and invoke her powers during war. But the emperor’s death now leaves both Sera and her ambitious father eligible for the throne—a contest the prince regent intends to win. Even if it means an alliance with a rival empire. Sera’s hope lies in Cettie, a waif raised in the world below, whose life has intertwined with Sera’s in the most unexpected ways. The Mysteries come easily to Cettie, and her studies have begun to yield new insight into her growing powers. But those same powers put Cettie in the path of those who would destroy her. Now as the threat of war ignites and an insidious sickness spreads throughout the kingdom, Sera and Cettie will need to gather their courage and fight for each other’s lives…and for the future of their endangered world.

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Book SynopsisIn the riveting sequel to Nightblade’s Vengeance, the nightblades must choose a side, and the Kingdom will either rise again…or shatter into pieces. With the realm on the brink of war, the once-celebrated blades have become an easy target for the rage of its devastated citizens. The nightblade warrior Asa’s lifelong quest for vengeance is over, but now she finds herself on the run from the people she sought to protect. As Asa forges a new course of action in an uncertain world, her path crosses with that of a young noblewoman. Mari knows that great opportunity lies in the heart of chaos. If the Kingdom is to rise again, Mari will need support, and she can think of no group better than the nightblades. But the nightblades have been betrayed before, and gaining their trust will not be easy. Mari wants to save the Kingdom. Asa wants to save the people. Both are willing to risk everything. But do their quests make them allies… or enemies?

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Book SynopsisGrass for His Pillow is the second novel in Lian Hearn's astonishingly beautiful series inspired by feudal Japan, Tales of the Otori.In the ancient Oriental lands of the Otori, amidst a time of violent war, famine and treacherous alliances, the fate of the young lovers Otori Takeo and Shirakawa Kaede hangs in the balance . . . Takeo, heir to the great Otori clan, has pledged his life to the secret Tribe. His supernatural skills of virtual invisibility and acute hearing make him their most deadly assassin. But he must deny the solemn oath of vengeance he made, his adopted birthright of wealth, land and power – and his love for Kaede. If he does not devote himself entirely to the brutal ways of the Tribe, they will kill him. Whichever path he chooses, it will lead to hardship and sacrifice in the bitter winter of the high mountains, and test him to the limits of his being. Kaede, heiress to vast lands, is now the valuable pawn of ruthless warlords. She must use her intelligence, beauty and cunning to assert her place in a world of all-powerful men – who must never suspect the dangerous secret she hides.Trade ReviewA thrilling tale of love, violence, loyalty and betrayal. * Guardian *The plot is gripping and the writing is beautiful, packed with authentic, atmospheric detail. * Daily Mail *The writing is extraordinary . . . Virtually pitch perfect. * Evening Standard *An enthralling and original work of fantasy. * The Times *The beauty, savagery and strangeness of Hearn's gripping tale is heightened by her exquisite, crystalline prose. The second instalment in the Tales of the Otori is, astonishingly, even better than Across the Nightingale Floor. * Independent on Sunday *

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Book SynopsisProphecy and magic combine in The Name of All Things, Jenn Lyons' powerful epic of imperial politics, dragons, gods and demons. You can have everything you want. If you sacrifice everything you believe . . .Kihrin D’Mon is a wanted man after killing the Emperor of Quur – and not in a good way. So he heads for Jorat, to find the fourth person named in prophesy, who will either save or damn the world. He meets Janel Theranon, who claims she already knows him. And she wants Kihrin’s help in saving Jorat’s capital from a dragon, who can only be slain with his sword’s magic. Unwittingly, Kirin also finds himself at the centre of a rebellion. One which puts him in direct opposition to Relos Var, his old enemy. For too long, Janel’s battled the wizard alone – even betraying her ideals to bring him down. However, Var owns one of the world’s most powerful artefacts: the Name of All Things. It bestows knowledge, which Var uses to gain what he wants most. This is now Kihrin D’Mon – and the world may not survive the consequences.The Name of All Things is book two in Jenn Lyons' thrilling epic fantasy series, A Chorus of Dragons, which begins with The Ruin of Kings. Continue the action with The Memory of Souls.'What an extraordinary book . . . everything epic fantasy should be: rich, cruel, gorgeous, brilliant, enthralling and deeply deeply satisfying. I loved it' – Lev Grossman on The Ruin of KingsTrade ReviewThis follow up to Lyon's brilliant debut takes a similar, assured (and sassy) narrative approach as The Ruin of Kings . . . Lyons proves she is worthy of comparison to other masters of epic fantasy, such as Patrick Rothfuss, Stephen R. Donaldson (particularly in GrandGuignol action), and Melanie Rawn -- Booklist starred reviewWhat an extraordinary book. The Ruin of Kings is everything epic fantasy should be: rich, cruel, gorgeous, brilliant, enthralling and deeply deeply satisfying. I loved it -- Lev Grossman on The Ruin of KingsA fantastic page-turner with a heady blend of great characters, fast-moving action and a fabulously inventive magic system . . . I loved it -- John Gwynne on The Ruin of KingsIt was one hell of a ride -- Glen Cook on The Ruin of KingsThe Ruin of Kings is a fascinating story about a compellingly conflicted young hero in an intriguingly complex world -- L. E. Modesitt Jr. on The Ruin of KingsThe Ruin of Kings revs up with the glitz of a high-speed, multi-level video game, with extreme magic -- Janny Wurts on The Ruin of KingsIt’s impossible not to be impressed with the ambition of it all, the sheer, effervescent joy Lyons takes in the scope of her project. Sometimes you just want a larger-than-life adventure story about thieves, wizards, assassins and kings -- New York Times on The Ruin of KingsIt’s an impressive and highly accomplished debut . . . The Ruin of Kings makes both an ideal introduction to the epic fantasy and a rewarding read for fans of the genre -- LA Times on The Ruin of KingsIn a sprawling, magic-filled world populated by gods, dragons, krakens, witches, demons, ghosts, shape-shifters, zombies and so much more, Lyons ties it all together seamlessly to create literary magic. Epic fantasy fans looking for a virtually un-put-down-able read should look no further -- Kirkus starred review on The Ruin of KingsThere’s more mystery than action in this tightly plotted tome, and its lore and memorable characters will leave epic fantasy fans eager for the second volume -- Publishers Weekly starred review on The Ruin of Kings

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Book SynopsisGods, demons, and even more dragons . . . Jenn Lyons' powerful epic fantasy continues in The Memory of Souls.The longer he lives, the more dangerous he becomes . . .The city of Atrine lies in ruins. And now Relos Var has revealed his plan to free the monstrous god, Vol Karoth, the end of the world is closer than ever.To buy time for humanity, Kihrin and his friends need to convince a king to perform an ancient ritual. The power released would imprison the god for an age to come. But this may come at too high a price for the King of the Vane, as the ritual would strip his people of their immortality. As a result, some will do anything to prevent this ritual – including assassinating those championing this solution.Worse, Kihrin must come to terms with a horrifying possibility. It seems his connection to Vol Karoth is growing in strength . . . but what does it mean? And how can Kihrin hope to save his world, when he might be the greatest threat of all?The Memory of Souls is the third book in the thrilling series, A Chorus of Dragons, which begins with The Ruin of Kings. Continue the action with The House of Always.'What an extraordinary book . . . everything epic fantasy should be: rich, cruel, gorgeous, brilliant, enthralling and deeply deeply satisfying. I loved it' – Lev Grossman on The Ruin of Kings'Delightful and entertaining . . . it’s a fast, pacey read' - Locus Magazine‘Lyons raises stakes to a fever pitch' - Publishers WeeklyTrade ReviewLyons braids multiple points of view, tenses, and time lines into a richly detailed and elaborate story with increasing tension and stakes -- Library Journal starred reviewWhat an extraordinary book. The Ruin of Kings is everything epic fantasy should be: rich, cruel, gorgeous, brilliant, enthralling and deeply deeply satisfying. I loved it -- Lev Grossman on The Ruin of KingsA fantastic page-turner with a heady blend of great characters, fast-moving action and a fabulously inventive magic system . . . I loved it -- John Gwynne on The Ruin of KingsIt’s impossible not to be impressed with the ambition of it all, the sheer, effervescent joy Lyons takes in the scope of her project. Sometimes you just want a larger-than-life adventure story about thieves, wizards, assassins and kings -- New York Times on The Ruin of KingsThis follow up to Lyon's brilliant debut takes a similar, assured (and sassy) narrative approach as The Ruin of Kings . . . Lyons proves she is worthy of comparison to other masters of epic fantasy, such as Patrick Rothfuss, Stephen R. Donaldson (particularly in GrandGuignol action), and Melanie Rawn -- Booklist starred review on The Name of All ThingsSimply put: This is top-notch adventure fantasy written for a 21st-century audience - highly recommended -- Kirkus starred review on The Name of All ThingsLyons is creating a complex and wonderful series that will immerse and delight -- Library Journal on The Name of All Things

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Book SynopsisWhat if you were imprisoned for all eternity?The House of Always is the fourth book in Jenn Lyons’s epic fantasy series A Chorus of Dragons, which starts with The Ruin of Kings.In the aftermath of the Ritual of Night, everything has changed.The Eight Immortals have catastrophically failed to stop Kihrin’s enemies, who are moving forward with their plans to free Vol Karoth, the King of Demons. Kihrin has his own ideas about how to fight back, but even if he’s willing to sacrifice everything for victory, the cost may prove too high for his allies.Now they face a choice: can they save the world while saving Kihrin too? Or will they be forced to watch as he becomes the very evil they had all sworn to destroy?Praise for A Chorus of Dragons:‘I loved it’ – Lev Grossman, author of The Magicians‘A larger-than-life adventure story about thieves, wizards, assassins and kings’ – New York TimesTrade ReviewWhat an extraordinary book. The Ruin of Kings is everything epic fantasy should be: rich, cruel, gorgeous, brilliant, enthralling and deeply deeply satisfying. I loved it -- Lev Grossman on The Ruin of KingsA fantastic page-turner with a heady blend of great characters, fast-moving action and a fabulously inventive magic system . . . I loved it -- John Gwynne on The Ruin of KingsIt’s impossible not to be impressed with the ambition of it all, the sheer, effervescent joy Lyons takes in the scope of her project. Sometimes you just want a larger-than-life adventure story about thieves, wizards, assassins and kings -- New York Times on The Ruin of KingsLyons proves she is worthy of comparison to other masters of epic fantasy, such as Patrick Rothfuss, Stephen R. Donaldson and Melanie Rawn -- Booklist starred review of The Name of All ThingsSimply put: this is top-notch adventure fantasy written for a twenty-first-century audience – highly recommended -- Kirkus starred review of The Name of All ThingsLyons is creating a complex and wonderful series that will immerse and delight -- Library Journal on The Name of All Things

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