Trials of Jeckle

Trials of Jeckle is the first book in The Realms of Glaith series, one where the science-fiction of steampunk fuses seamlessly with magic-infused fantasy. The result is a tumultuous world filled with alchemical wonders, impossible technology, daring rebels, noble wizards, ruthless witches, ominous plots, myths made reality, and a host of monsters both human and otherwise - all things that will have to be faced by a varied cast of heroes as they find themselves drawn into a string of perilous, action-packed adventures.

The shard known as Glaith is just a fragment of what used to be a world, home to the twin human realms of Braethwenna and Erice. The former, a steam-powered industrial juggernaut ruled by a fanatical, all-powerful government. The latter, an alliance of magic-using kingdoms who revere wizards and alchemy. Despite their differences, the two enjoyed a tentative peace that held for over seven centuries - until a sudden, unexpected attack changed everything. Now, many fear the war that all hoped would never arrive has become inevitable.

But as Glaith's inhabitants nervously await the bloodshed, unrelated happenings all across the shard promise to cause crises of their own. To the north, the impassable mists that once engulfed the Sea of Perfidy have lifted, prompting rumours that the ancient legends said to dwell behind them are more than just tall stories. In Erice, there are reports that a new bloodthirsty enemy has suddenly appeared in the south, apparently intent on eradicating mankind. And in addition to the plague of rampant inequality, Braethwenna faces a spree of mysterious terrorist attacks that leave entire towns empty, their occupants vanishing into thin air overnight.

All it will take to tip everything over the edge is a single incident: the unlikely reunion between a powerful young wizard with a dark past, and his resilient, quick-witted sister. Unbeknownst to them, their serendipitous meeting will end up dragging the whole of Glaith into a series of events equal parts impossible and dangerous - one that will change both them and the shard forever.
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