Born into poverty and orphaned young, Daveth Blyd had one chance for success when his fighting prowess earned him a place in the Tangye city guard—a place he lost to false accusations of theft. Now he scrapes out a living searching for wayward spouses and missing children. When a nobleman offers him a small fortune to find an entertainer who’s stolen a ring, Daveth takes the case.
While Jory Pearce may or may not be a thief, he certainly can’t be trusted. But, enchanted by Jory’s beauty and haunting voice, Daveth soon finds himself caught in the middle of a conspiracy. As he searches desperately for answers, he realizes that he’s also falling for Jory. The two men face river wraiths, assassins, a necromancer, and a talking head that could be Daveth’s salvation on their quest for the truth. But with everyone’s integrity in question and Death eager to dance, Daveth will need more than sorcery to survive.
Awards
Reviews
With a mystery, a touch of fantasy, a dash of romance, and a noir feel, Blyd and Pearce quickly grabbed my attention and kept me enthralled in the events unfolding…. With magic expertly woven into the setting, and plot, it is a remarkable and compelling story.
—The Novel Approach
I’m seriously not sure what to say about this book other than is was a whole ball of fun. You have back-alley brawls, sword-fights, double-dealing, falling in love with beautiful untruthful men, and a whole lot of intrigue and murder. I can’t say I was bored for a second of it.
—Love Bytes Reviews
Those who love a noir type story or appreciate good world building should give this one a try.
—It’s About the Book
Overall, this was a really entertaining book, with a great cast of characters and a mystery that will keep you guessing until the very end. Very recommendable!
—Bayou Book Junkie
An amazing world with characters so real I felt like I could talk with them.
—Goodreads reviewer
A noir detective story set in a medieval fantasy world where magic, gender and sexual fluidity are commonplace. Moody and engaging characters as well as social commentary lends a gritty feel to this story.
Sharply written dialogue and just enough twists and turns make for an excellent read.
—Goodreads reviewer
