Witchmark: 1 (Kingston Cycle) - Softcover

Polk, C. L.

Softcover

ISBN 10: 1250162688 ISBN 13: 9781250162687

Publisher: tor.com, 2018

Synopsis

In an original world reminiscent of Edwardian England in the shadow of a world war, cabals of noble families use their unique magical gifts to control the fates of nations, while one young man seeks only to live a life of his own. Moving at a brilliant pace and pulsing with deadly intrigue and unforgettable characters, Witchmark grabs readers and doesn't let go until the thrilling conclusion. Magic marked Miles Singer for suffering the day he was born, doomed either to be a slave to his family's interest or to be committed to a witches' asylum. He went to war to escape his destiny and came home a different man, but he couldn't leave his past behind. The war between Aeland and Laneer leaves men changed, strangers to their friends and family. Even after faking his own death and reinventing himself as a doctor at a cash-strapped veteran's hospital, Miles can't hide what he truly is.

About this title

Review

"Thoroughly charming and deftly paced." --The New York Times

"Invigoratingly original, crisply and subtly and wittily written." --Anthony Rapp

"C.L. Polk's Witchmark is a delightfully compulsive read. With an intriguing alternate world of magic and modernity and the costs of both, and an endearing protagonist in Dr. Miles Singer -- more, please!" --Carrie Vaughn

"Enthralling, fast-paced, and romantic, Witchmark unveils a fascinating world. Polk writes with assured ease. I can't wait for her next book!" --Elizabeth Hoyt

"This book has it all: alternate history Edwardian world, magic system world-building, murder mystery, family drama, examination of class systems -- did I mention magic? -- and a sweet male/male romance." --Alyssa Cole

"A crackler, with layers like a nesting doll and just as delightful to discover. Witchmark is a can't-miss debut that will enchant readers." --Booklist Starred Review

"Polk's stellar debut... blends taut mystery, exciting political intrigue, and inventive fantasy... Polk is a writer to watch." --Publishers Weekly Starred Review

"The world of this new series feel rich and familiar, yet wholly unique. The atmosphere is perfect for this tale of dangerous magic, lost souls and lonely hearts." --RT Book Reviews

"The subtle ways Polk builds her characters, reveals the systems under which they live and unwinds a complicated, twisting plot with both personal and political implications are testaments to her skill as a storyteller." --Shelf Awareness

"This book has romance, mystery, witch battles, and bicycle chases." --Elizabeth Bear

"Glowing with expertly handled magic, in a deeply-layered alternate world, Polk's Witchmark is a serious mystery and a steaming romance. I'm enchanted." --Fran Wilde

"Witchmark is a brilliant read, full of atmosphere and thrills, likable characters, and more than a bit of romance. It is a remarkable debut!" --Los Angeles Public Library

"If you need a fun queer period adventure romance, you'll want to add this to your TBR pile." --Aliette de Bodard

"Witchmark is an exciting, accomplished and wonderfully written debut. C.L. Polk has created a world which, while recognisable, is nonetheless wholly original -- the perfect setting for a fast-paced, complex and wonderfully characterised story." --Foz Meadows

About the Author

C. L. POLK wrote her first story in grade school and still hasn't learned any better. After spending years in strange occupations and wandering western Canada, she settled in southern Alberta with her rescue dog Otis. C. L. has had short stories published in Baen's UNIVERSE and contributes to the web serial Shadow Unit.

About this edition

• Publisher: tor.com
• Publication date: 2018
• ISBN 10: 1250162688
• ISBN 13: 9781250162687
• Binding: Paperback
• Number of pages: 320