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Showing posts with label Philippa Ballantine. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Philippa Ballantine. Show all posts
Wednesday, May 29, 2013
Cover reveal Dawn’s Early Light by Pip Ballantine and Tee Morris
Today I have the privilege of revealing to you the cover for Dawn’s Early Light by Pip Ballantine and Tee Morris. This is the third book in their amazing Ministry of Peculiar Occurrences Series. Without further ado.... May I present to you Dawn’s Early Light...
Dawn’s Early Light (Ministry of Peculiar Occurrences #3)
ACE publishing, late 2013 or early 2014
ACE publishing, late 2013 or early 2014
Working for the Ministry of Peculiar Occurrences, one sees innumerable technological wonders. But even veteran agents Braun and Books are unprepared for what the electrifying future holds…
After being ignominiously shipped out of England following their participation in the Janus affair, Braun and Books are ready to prove their worth as agents. But what starts as a simple mission in the States—intended to keep them out of trouble—suddenly turns into a scandalous and convoluted case that has connections reaching as far as Her Majesty the Queen.
Even with the help of two American agents from the Office of the Supernatural and the Metaphysical, Braun and Books have their work cut out for them as their chief suspect in a rash of nautical and aerial disasters is none other than Thomas Edison. Between the fantastic electric machines of Edison, the eccentricities of MoPO consultant Nikola Tesla, and the mysterious machinations of a new threat known only as the Maestro, they may find themselves in far worse danger than they ever have been in before…
About the Authors:
New Zealand born fantasy writer and podcaster Philippa (Pip) Ballantine is the author of the Books of the Order and the Shifted World series. She is also the co-author with her husband Tee Morris of the Ministry of Peculiar Occurrences novels. Her awards include an Airship, a Parsec, and a Sir Julius Vogel. She currently resides in Virginia with her husband, daughter, and a mighty clowder of cats.
Tee Morris began his writing career with his 2002 historical epic fantasy, MOREVI The Chronicles of Rafe & Askana. In 2005 Tee took MOREVI into the then-unknown podosphere, making his novel the first book podcast in its entirety.
He won acclaim and accolades for his cross-genre fantasy-detective Billibub Baddings Mysteries, the podcast of The Case of the Singing Sword winning him the 2008 Parsec Award for Best Audio Drama.
Tee bought all these skills to the award-winning Ministry of Peculiar Occurrences series which he wrote with his wife, Pip Ballantine. When he is not writing, Tee enjoys life in Virginia alongside Philippa Ballantine, his daughter, and three cats.
Right now Pip and Tee are also running a Kickstarter for a brand new anthology and a roleplaying game set in the world of the Ministry of Peculiar Occurrences. Check out the project here http://bit.ly/ministry-initiative.
Wednesday, May 22, 2013
Ministry Initiative Blog Hop Giveaway
Hello readers... Happy SPRING! I am so excited that we are finally having some warmer weather up here in New England. I’m looking forward to the holiday weekend and annual family and friend get togethers.
But enough about me... I’m here today because I’m participating in the Ministry Initiative Blog Hop
What is the Ministry Initiative?
Galileo Games and Imagine That! Studios have teamed up to bring you an ambitious steampunk project! The Ministry Initiative is a two-part creative endeavor that will not only premiere new fiction from the steampunk world of the Ministry but also present a brand new role playing game from the makers of Bulldogs! and the ENnie Award winning game Shelter in Place. With this initiative you can thrill to the tales in Ministry Protocol anthology, or join in as an Agent in The Ministry Initiative RPG.
Find out more about this endeavor and support the Kickstarter here: http://bit.ly/ministry-initiative
Now for the fun part!!! Several blogs have teamed up for this blog hop. Each site has its own individual giveaway. Stop by and visit each site and enter as many contests as you like.
Here at That’s What I’m Talking About, I’ve got a great giveaway of recently released books, featuring several first books in a new series titles. The prize includes:
Rising Darkness by Thea Harrison
Time Thief by Katie MacAlister
The Cursed by Alyssa Day
Garrett for Hire by Glen Cook
Tales of Majipoor by Robert Silverberg
The Rules for my contest: To be entered, please use the RAFFLECOPTER form below. As part of the entry, leave a comment telling me what new-to-you series you have recently started reading or read (can be brand new series or an older one you’ve just picked up). Contest is open from May 22, 2013 until Wednesday May 30 at 12:00 AM EDT. One entry per person. Contest is restricted to US mailing addresses only. One (1) winner will be selected from eligible entries. I am not responsible for items lost in the mail. If you have problems with the RAFFLECOPTER form, please email me at twimom227 (at) gmail (dot) com.
Now be sure to stop by the other participating blogs for more contest and fun:
Friday, March 22, 2013
Cover reveal Harbinger by Philippa Ballantine
Today I have the privilege of revealing to you the cover for Harbinger by Philippa (Pip) Ballantine. This is the fourth and final (*sobs*) story in her marvelous Books of the Order Series. Without further ado.... May I present to you Harbinger...
The cover artist for Harbinger is Jason Chan. Once again, what perfect imagery for this exciting series! I cannot wait to read it!
Harbinger (Books of the Order #4)
ACE publishing, July 30, 2013
ACE publishing, July 30, 2013
The Deacons of the Order are all that stand between the wicked spirits of the Otherside and the innocent citizens of the Empire. They are sworn to protect humanity, even when they cannot protect themselves…
After the Razing of the Order, Sorcha Faris, one of the most powerful Deacons, is struggling to regain control of the runes she once wielded. The Deacons are needed more desperately than ever. The barrier between the world of the living and the world of the dead is weakening, and the Emperor has abandoned his throne, seeking to destroy those he feels have betrayed him.
Though she is haunted by the terrible truth of her past, Sorcha must lead the charge against the gathering hordes of geists seeking to cross into the Empire. But to do so, she will need to manipulate powers beyond her understanding—powers that may prove to be her undoing…
About the Author:
New Zealand born fantasy writer and podcaster Philippa (Pip) Ballantine is the author of the Books of the Order and the Shifted World series. She is also the co-author with her husband Tee Morris of the Ministry of Peculiar Occurrences novels. Her awards include an Airship, a Parsec, and a Sir Julius Vogel. She currently resides in Manassas, VA with her husband, daughter, and a mighty clowder of cats.
You can find Pip online ...
Reviews in the Books of the Order:
Labels:
ACE,
blog tour,
Book Covers,
Book of the Order,
Cover Love,
Philippa Ballantine
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Wednesday, September 19, 2012
Quickie Review: Gimme Shelter Anthology
Gimme Shelter
Editor: J.R. Blackwell
Release Date: Jan. 15, 2012
Publisher: Galileo Publishing
Genre: Urban Fantasy, Anthology, Horror
Format(s): e-book
Book Source: Purchased
About the book:
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The Zombies Are Here!
Gimme Shelter, the anthology of the zombie Apocalypse, is about zombies, survival, fathers and daughters, teenagers making out, guns, awkward third dates, reality TV gone wrong, and having a sense of humor in the face of impending disaster. It’s a love letter to horror, zombies and the apocalypse.
Gimme Shelter features all-new fiction from Filamena Young, Jared Axelrod, PJ Schnyder, Christiana Ellis, Peter Woodworth, Tee Morris, Mur Lafferty, Rob Wieland, David A. Hill Jr., Phillipa Ballentine, Chuck Wendig, and J.R. Blackwell.
The fiction in Gimme Shelter was created as a special thank you to the Kickstarter supporters of Shelter in Place.
What Una is talking about:
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Gimme Shelter is a collection of vignettes. Each is few pages that describe a moment or event in an aspect of post-apocalyptic zombie earth. A different author crafted each one and they give a different point of view of the zombie apocalypse. The contributions range from heartbreaking to touching to downright creepy! There is a wide range of pathos while reading Gimme Shelter. I found it hauntingly wonderful.
Although I was gifted Gimme Shelter as a paperback copy, my research for this quick review showed that it is only available in e-book format. However, it is the perfect companion for a short wait at the doctor’s office, to board a plane, or while away an hour. The moments captured by each author may linger in your thoughts. They certainly did mine, as did several questions some posed. What would you do in a similar situation? How would you react?
All in all, it was an incredibly entertaining and witty read. If you are interested in zombie urban fantasy but are unsure, you might want to pick up Gimme Shelter as a way to test out the genre.
Una’s Rating:
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Loved it - enthusiastically recommend (A)
Purchase Info:
Monday, September 10, 2012
Review: Wrayth by Phillipa Ballatine
Wrayth
Author: Phillipa Ballantine
Release Date: Aug. 28, 2012
Publisher: ACE
Book of the Order #3
ISBN: #978-1937007751
Genre: Fantasy
Format(s): Paperback (320 pgs), e-book
Book Source: Publisher
About the book:
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In the Empire of Arkaym, the Order of Deacons protects and shelters the citizens from the attacks of the unliving. All are sworn to fight the evil forces of the geists—and to keep the world safe from the power of the Otherside…
Although she is one of the most powerful Deacons in the Order, Sorcha Faris is still unable to move or speak after her last battle. Even her partner, Merrick Chambers, cannot reach her through their shared Bond. Yet there are those who still fear Sorcha and the mystery of her hidden past.
Meanwhile, Merrick has been asked to investigate a new member of the Emperor’s Court. But when Sorcha is abducted by men seeking Raed Rossin, the shapeshifting rival to the throne, Merrick must choose where his loyalties lie.
What I’m talking about:
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Welcome back to Ms. Ballantine’s amazing world of Arykham. It’s been two months since the explosive ending to Spectyr, the second Book of the Order. We discover that our heroine Sorcha has been in a catatonic state since those events, only able to move her eyes and push emotions through the bond with her Sensitive partner, Merrick. Her not-quite ex-partner and ex-husband, Koyla is hanging on to their weak bond, attempting to usurp her bond with Merrick. Raed Rossin, Sorcha’s lover and rightful heir to the throne, is off searching for his treacherous sister, possibly never to return. And Merrick, who is still recovering from losing his first love, has been spending a lot of time with the Emperor's sister, the Grand Duchess Zofiya. All of this frustrates Sorcha beyond capacity because she cannot take charge of herself, let alone help those she loves. But wait... there’s more! Sorcha’s first partner, Garil, and Raed’s first mate, Aachon, kidnap Sorcha so that she can lead them to Raed. If you are confused... keep reading!
The opening of the story is full of immediate and intense action. There is no learning curve in Wrayth, and because of this, I highly recommend reading the first two books before jumping into this one. (Also, this series is one of the best out there and you would be remiss if you didn’t read it from the start.) The book follows our three main characters, Sorcha, Merrick and Raed, allowing the reader insight from each character’s POV. Because all three heroes are involved in their own subplot the story is constantly shifting around, which can cause minor confusion to both the reader and the characters. Also, the heroes feel lost and annoyed, each being on their own, especially since they have learned to work together and heavily rely on their special three-way bond.
I was also a bit confused at the beginning, but that was more due to reader issues that the book itself. As I’ve stated in my reviews of the first two books from this series, Ms. Ballantine’s world is an elaborate one, full of rich and intricate details with a unique mythology. The events that occur build upon each other, from the opening paragraph of the first book, to the conclusion of this story. In other words, a lot goes on and one needs to pay attention. Although the author does her best to remind the reader what has happened to date, I was frustrated that I couldn’t remember everything from the earlier books. (I have already decided I’ll be doing a re-read before the next book!) Just like its predecessors, this book is packed with twists and turns, non-stop action and a great deal of story. In other words: PAY ATTENTION!
The primary storylines find our three heroes each fighting their own battles. In order to be revived from her comatose condition, Sorcha makes a deal with a geistlord that leaves her (and the reader) a bit uncomfortable (you know it's going to come back and bite her in the rear!). Raed has been captured by another geistlord, the Wrayth (think creepy version of Star Trek TNG Borg), and he has struck a bargain with the Rossin (the geistlord that shares his body) so that they can work together to survive. Finally, Merrick discovers that a very dangerous man has the ear of the Emperor, but before he can warn anyone is accused of kidnapping the Grand Duchess. I will tell you that for much of the book I felt hopeless. Yet, this is a good thing! I was so caught up in the storylines that I empathized with the character’s plights. I was extremely nervous almost the entire time, and couldn’t put the book down.
I’m not going to try and recap more of the elaborate and spectacular plot of Wrayth, but understand that eventually the heroes make their way back to each other, which makes this reader happy, giving me hope again. I also am grateful that many of the loose ends from the previous two books are brought together, giving explanation to much of what’s been going on.
The continued character development is so satisfying, and probably the best thing about this series. Starting with the first Book of the Order, the characters and their relationships have always been the heart of these books, endearing themselves and this series to me. They have all gone through so much, with each step adding to the whole. In Wrayth we learn more about Sorcha’s mysterious past, which is exciting in its own right. However, it’s Sorcha’s fortitude and how she reacts to the situations that allow her character to shine. Similarly, observing Raed and the Rossin in action together as they make “deals with the devil,” allows both halves of this man to stretch and grow. Just when you think that maybe Raed has figured out how to live with the Rossin, Ms. Ballantine tosses in a twist that has me worried for Raed. Finally, Merrick, the novice Sensitive takes center stage in Wrayth as her learns he can stand on his own two feet without Sorcha to protect and guide him.
In conclusion, there is just so much to love about Wrayth, especially for fans of the series. The action is intense, with a step up in suspense and intrigue. The character development progresses by leaps and bounds. Finally, the overall story arc is peaking, and with only one book left in this series, let me assure you that you will be itching for its release the moment you finish reading Wrayth.
My Rating:
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Loved it - enthusiastically recommend (A)
Reviews in the Series:
Friday, June 29, 2012
Review: Hunter and Fox by Philippa Ballantine
Hunter and Fox
Author: Philippa Ballantine
Release Date: June 26, 2012
Publisher: Pyr
Shifted World #1
ISBN: #978-1616146238
Genre: Fantasy
Format(s): Paperback (340 pgs), e-book
Book Source: Publisher
About the book:
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In a world that is in constant shifting, where mountains can change to plains, and then to lakes, Talyn is the Hunter for the Caisah, and a wreck of a once-proud person. She has lost her people, the Vaerli, and her soul working for the man who destroyed her people. All unknowing, she carries within her a Kindred, a chaos creature from the center of the earth that wants to help bring the Vaerli back to power. However, she has lost the ability to communicate with it.
Little does the Hunter know that salvation is looking for her, and it wears the face of gentleness and strength. Finn is a teller of tales who carries his own dreadful secret. He sets out to find answers to his path but ends up in the city of Perilous and Fair where he meets Talyn. He knows the danger and is yet drawn to her. Their fates will be bound together.
Meanwhile, the Hunter’s lost brother Byre is searching for his own solution to the terrible curse placed on the Vaerli. He sets forth on a treacherous journey of his own, which will intersect in the most unlikely place with that of Talyn and Finn. The ramifications of this encounter will be felt by all the people in Conhaero, from the lost Vaerli to the Caisah on his throne.
What I’m talking about:
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Hunter and Fox is a true fantasy and with that comes a complex new world full of magic and inhabited by beings with an array of abilities. Key to the story are are: 1) the primary heroine, Talyn the Dark (think Xena). She is Caisah's bounty hunter. She is Vaerli, a once powerful race with seven magical gifts, to include the ability to "move and see" through time. 2) The bad guy, Caisah, ruler of Conhaero. His power is supreme and his sanity borders on madness. He has broken the once powerful Vaerli, stealing their powers and making Talyn his killer. 3) The understated hero, Finbarr (Finn) the Fox. He is a talespinner with a gift for storytelling. He follows Talyn with love in his heart, telling others the stories of the Vaerli, hoping to make a difference. 4) The martyr hero, Byreniko, Talyn’s brother. He has wandered for years, never knowing his people, but now is ready to take a stand and fight for freedom.
Ms. Ballantine has created an intricately detailed world, full of magic and mysticism. She spent the first three or so chapters expertly laying the foundation for her world, detailing not only the conflicts and points of the plot, but giving the reader just enough of this world to understand enough to be captivated.
Plain and simple, Hunter and Fox is a elaborate and involving tale. On the surface it appears to cover the potential rebellion against the evil oppressor, Caisah, and finding freedom for the Vaeril and all of the inhabitant of Conhaero. The Variel were once the dominate species; they had great power and were widely respected. Now they are shells with their gifts removed during the Harrowing, and even worse, they feared because of Talyn. Our three primary “heroes,” Talyn, Byreniko, and Finn, must go on his/her own journey to open their minds and hearts so that they may find truth and direction. They are watched over by the original inhabitants of this world, The Kindred, who are like spiritual beings of the earth. They are sort of helping, but not interfering.
Along the way, we are introduced to several minor characters that help foster the rebellion. One key figure is Retira, Talyn and Byre’s father. He has been gone from their lives for nearly 300 years, then shows up to warn Talyn she’s going down the wrong path (and basically disowns her), then joins Byre and pushes him on a dangerous journey. He clearly has his own agenda that he is not sharing. It made me distrust him and I was constantly wondering if he was truly who he claimed to be.
While Caisah plays a significant roll in the overall story - he is the cause of much of the current plight of the people of Conhaero, after the first few chapters, we don’t see much of him. His motivations are unclear, but his thirst to control and enjoyment in displaying his power are evident. A perfect example is in a quiet scene where Caisah insists his “Hawk” ride with her “Master” and his mistress, Kelanim. Caisah makes a show that he controls the fearsome Hunter, but he also enjoys the conflict.
She [Kelamin] sat next to the Caisah glaring with fiery eyes at Talyn. He like it that way. He moved everything in his world to conflict; from warring tribes to bickering women.
Unlike more current urban fantasies where the setting is typically familiar, Hunter and Fox is a traditional fantasy where the entire world is built from the ground up. The world created by Ms. Ballantine is enchanting, full of mysticism and fantastical races. She does an excellent job of not only detailing each, but giving us enough background and history to understand and recognize the important changes coming into play. It took some conscious effort to learn about each, but I never felt that the details were spoon-feed or forced. Although complex, the flow of information was seamless.
As the story progresses, the intricacies of the story increases by leaps and bounds. Hunter and Fox is about the journeys of these individuals as they try to find their way to a better place. It had the feel of an epic fantasy; a complex world on the brink of massive change. The time of oppression is coming to and end, and we are witnessing the start of something new. Unfortunately, we never got to find out what that new world order is. This book was only the first "chapter" of the saga, and I have to admit, I was disappointed. It was a long journey to get through this book and to end without conclusion was difficult to swallow.
This story requires time and energy; it's not a quick read, nor is it light. It is, however, an exciting and involved fantasy. For those like me that enjoy fantasy, Hunter and Fox is worth the read, but be aware that you are getting yourself into something larger than one book. I eagerly await what comes next.
My Rating:
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Liked it - recommend (B+)
Friday, May 25, 2012
Review: The Janus Affair by Pip Ballantine & Tee Morris
The Janus Affair
Author: Pip Ballantine & Tee Morris
Release Date: May 29, 2012
Publisher: Harper Voyager
The Ministry of Peculiar Occurrences Series #2
ISBN: #978-0062049780
Genre: Steampunk
Format(s): Paperback (432 pgs), e-book
Book Source: Publisher - Edelweiss
About the book:
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Certainly no strangers to peculiar occurrences, agents Wellington Books and Eliza Braun are nonetheless stunned to observe a fellow passenger aboard Britain’s latest hyper steam train suddenly vanish in a dazzling bolt of lightning. They soon discover this is not the only such disappearance… with each case going inexplicably unexamined by the Crown.
The fate of England is once again in the hands of an ingenious archivist paired with a beautiful, fearless lady of adventure. And though their foe be fiendishly clever, so then is Mr. Books…and Miss Braun still has a number of useful and unusual devices hidden beneath her petticoats.
What I’m talking about:
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The story opens with our wonderful agents, Eliza Braun and Wellington Books, on their way home from Scotland. While on the train, they witness a bizarre incident where a woman is snatched up in a ball of energy and just disappears. This truly is a Peculiar Occurrence, but since Ms. Braun and Mr. Books have been relegated to the Archives (and after making a bit of a mess taking down the House of Usher in the last story, Phoenix Rising), the investigation is left to the bumbling traitor, Bruce Campbell. Of course, since we are talking about Ms. Braun and Mr. Books, and after personal intercession from Eliza’s past, have no fear... they are secretly on the case.
After being blow away by the first book of the Ministry of Peculiar Occurrences, I could not wait to get my hands on The Janus Affair, and once again, I am enamored. The action begins right from the start and doesn’t slow down until we solve the mystery. One does not need to have read the first book in this series to enjoy The Janus Affair, but it is an excellent book and gives marvelous backstory - it is truly worth while.
The first thing I noted and was excited about was the deepening relationship between Eliza and Welly. The two have become comfortable with one another - almost like best friends. But as the books moves forward and we gain perspective from Wellington’s point of view, we realize that he is truly smitten with Eliza. It is sweet and endearing and makes the book that much more enjoyable. Welly is crushing big time on Eliza, but she remains obtuse despite the small signs. A wrench is tossed into the duo’s potential romance when Eliza’s first love, Douglas, comes to visit from their homeland of New Zealand. Not only do a multitude of emotions spring forth in Eliza, but it also serves to remind her that she can never return home to see her family.
Douglas arrives on the scene escorting his mother, Kate Sheppard, who is a suffragist leader from New Zealand. She is in England to garner support for the cause, but instead is fearful for her life as one-by-one the suffragist leaders are being kidnapped in the ball of energy. Kate asks for Eliza to help investigate and stop the abductions. Douglas wants to pick up where he and Eliza left off, and Eliza isn’t certain what to think or do. With their arrival, we discover though suggestions and innuendo that Eliza’s expulsion from her homeland was related to an incident involving Kate.
I did not care for Douglas and felt he was up to something the whole time I read the book. I even wondered if he was directly involved in the abductions (spoiler-free here!). His garish behavior - especially in front of Wellington - along with his constant interfering with Eliza’s work infuriated me, but Eliza handles herself just like she should! Kuddos to the authors for creating a character that I love to hate!
In my note taking, I have flagged so many wonderful passages - most of which are dialogue between Eliza and Wellington. The pair work so well together, despite the circumstances and pressures. Secrets are unraveled and the pair learn to get past it all.
As Eliza and Wellington work behind-the-scenes (with help from the wonderful “Ministry Seven” - a group of vagabond children with many mischievous “skills”), we are interrupted from time-to-time with short “Interludes” which detail a much larger story arc. The nefarious and mysterious Maestro returns to the scene in his continued efforts to bring down the Ministry and its director, Doctor Sound, but what his plans are remains unknown. He has enlisted the help of Peter Lawson, Duke of Sussex, who in turn has an “inside” man in agent Bruce Campbell. Also continuing in her roll as master thief and trouble-maker is the lovely Sophia del Morte. The whole sequence of events gives much to the content of the story without detracting from the plot. I want to know so much more.... what is Doctor Sound up to?
If it seems like there is a lot going on, it’s because there truly is. However, the plot is fairly seamless and the story is so engrossing, that one hardly notices. There were a few times I felt lost, but it never was cause for a re-read.
Overall, The Janus Affair is an excellent story. Although I got a little lost in the words at times, the descriptive settings were exquisite (and for steampunk fans, the contraptions are wonderful!). The madcap schemes and intricate plots are on par with classic whodunit mysteries. The story has amazing humor, non-stop adventure and action, and yes... romance! The addition of the romance sweetened the story without cheapening it. Welly's smitten behavior and the introduction of Douglas added a new dimension to the fabulous series. I am still trying to figure out the overall story arc and look forward to finding out more... hopefully sooner than later.
My Rating:
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Enjoyed - strongly recommend (A-)
Purchase Info:
Reviews in the Series:
Monday, July 11, 2011
Review: Spectyr
SpectyrAuthor: Philippa Ballantine
Release Date: June 28, 2011
Publisher: ACE Fantasy
Book of the Order #2
ISBN: #978-0441020515
Genre: Fantasy
Format(s): Paperback (320 pgs), e-book
Book Source: Publisher
| About the book: |
Though one of the most powerful Deacons, Sorcha Faris has a tarnished reputation to overcome. She and her partner, Deacon Merrick Chambers, find themselves chasing down rumors of geists, but long for a return to real action. So they jump at the chance to escort a delegation sent to negotiate the terms of the Emperor’s engagement. Their destination: the exotic city of Orinthal.
But a string of murders has Orinthal on edge, and Sorcha and Merrick are asked to investigate. Meanwhile the Emperor’s sister has unwittingly released a cruel and vengeful goddess, one who it bent on destroying her enemies, including the geistlord who resides inside the shapeshifting rival to the throne—Sorcha’s lover….
| What I’m talking about: |
Wow - another great story in Ms. Ballantine’s richly-detailed, exotic world of Arkaym! Spectyr picks up shortly after the explosive conclusion of the first Book of the Order, Geist (my review HERE), with the return of key characters and the addition of a few new players. Deacons Sorcha Faris and Merrick Chambers are dealing with the blows of betrayal from within the Order, meanwhile, geist (paranormal) activity has been slow, leaving the pair with little to do. (In Ms. Ballantine’s world, intrusions by creatures from the “otherside” are commonplace and the Order’s Deacons are the “ghostbusters” of society.) Suddenly, strange events begin to occur, leading the Deacons, and a slew of other important players to the desert city of Orinthal.
Just like its predecessor, Spectyr, is full of amazing details, distinctive locals and unique lexicon. It is a beautifully crafted and involving story that requires a reader’s full attention. The action is intense, and the plotlines are elaborately crafted. I will admit that I had forgotten several details from Geist, but Ms. Ballantine did a marvelous job “reminding me” of key events.
Once again, the three-way bond of Sorcha, Merrick and Raed, the ousted heir to the Empire and Sorcha’s lover, was a focal part of the story. The bond penetrated the threesome’s actions and grew in sometimes unexpected ways. The emotional impact of their deep connection reverberated throughout the story, leaving me wanting more.
Ms. Ballantine used their bond as a starting point for this story and then expanded the emotional ties to include new characters and situations. The ramifications of the newer bonds pulled on the threesome, causing emotional dilemmas between old and new friends, family and duty. I believe I held my breath more than once!
As events unfold, sections of the Empire began to crumble and I was left wondering what will happen next. Although this book didn’t have what I would term a “cliff-hanger” ending, it did leave many unresolved issues and open-ended plot lines. I cannot wait to find out what will happen to Sorcha, Merrick and Raed, along with the fate of several new an returning characters. I will warn you, this story is NOT a quick read, and while it may take a bit longer to complete, it is addictive and worth the time!
| My Rating: |
Enjoyed - strongly recommend
Sunday, May 8, 2011
Sunday Snippets #57
Phoenix Rising: A Ministry of Peculiar Occurrences Novel
by Pip Ballantine & Tee Morris
Harper Voyager Publishing
April 26, 2011
For a few moments, only the low rumbling of the Ministry’s generators filled the space. Wellington read the Daily Mail headline several times and tried to remember to breathe. He felt the confession on the tip of his tongue, but he was too far invested into this forgotten case now. He would probably meet the same fate as Agent Braun, even if he withheld nothing from the Director about what he and Eliza had really been up to in their brief time together.As if in answer to Wellington’s prayer, Eliza asked, “Could it be the House of Usher, sir?”
“Well, Agent Braun, the black carriage with--”
Doctor Sound turned the newspaper back around and, after a moment, began reading. “--‘wheels of nefarious construction smiting down innocents as would the scythe of the Reaper’ does sound very House of Usher, but then I have to stop and consider the other particulars in this story.
“Note, if you will: ‘Eyewitnesses report that Mistress Death was locked in mortal combat with a hansom that kept chase, its drivers a man and a woman lacking modesty most proper.’ Now, here is a detail I find most curious: ‘The heroic hansom did carry a lone passenger, the man’s purpose unclear as all he seemed to be doing was screaming as would a banshee of the rolling moors of West Yorkshire.’ What do you make of that, Books?”
Wellington felt his tongue swell. He found himself totally paralyzed by the cool, steely gaze of the Director. His mouth went to open, his throat dry as if he had been walking through an Egyptian expanse.
“As I read about such outrageous behaviour from the subjects of Her Majesty,” Doctor Sound said, folding the newspaper and placing it where the seventh vase should have been, “I thank God in heaven that I am the director of a clandestine organisation where our specialty is our subtlety.”
He slowly turned to Eliza, his eyes narrowing on her. “Isn’t that correct, Agent Braun?”
Eliza nodded. “Most of the time, sir.”
“Yes,” he agreed. “Most of the time.” Sound’s eyes went back and forth between them both, and Wellington could feel a tightness in his chest.
“Well then, I shan’t keep you. I just thought I would pay my Archives a visit, and I am quite glad I did so.” He took in the shelves, the massive difference engine and its vast network of pulleys, and finally their shared desk, and he nodded approvingly. “I should do this more often. So please, if I ever do pop down ther when the mood strikes me, just go about your business. Pretend as if I am not here.” He lifted a figure up to his mustache and tugged at it a bit. “You can do that, can’t you?”
With a final look at the tow of them, Doctor Sound headed for the stairwell. “Agent Braun, Agent Books, good afternoon.”
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