Author:
Alex McGilvery has been reading since before he can remember, and writing almost that long. He has published 18 books and is author and editor at his imprint Celticfrog Publishing. He lives in Kamloops with his dog and the stories clawing their way out of his head.

They’re chasing a myth in the name of science.

Calliope works for her explorer father as an artist, recording what he brings back from his journeys in her sketchbooks. When she’s given a chance to go along on a trip to capture a sea serpent she doesn’t hesitate.

Life at sea isn't what she expected, and she ends up fascinated by the engine room of the steamship HMRV Peregrine. A tragedy makes her assistant engineer, but Pentam, her father’s protégé, is even more determined than her father to make Cal a fine lady. That means protecting her from danger, even if it drives her crazy.
When science and legend collide, Cal is the one who must take up the challenge of survival, even if it means risking her new-found feelings for Pentam.

Calliope

Crysabel looked at the gown in wonder. 


"Of course." Cal helped her friend out of her dress, then put the gown on her, gave her the gloves. 


"It's like I'm in one of those fairy tales." She touched her reflection.


"You'll set the ball on fire, and no leaving at midnight." Cal pulled out a roll of paper and flattened it on the table. "Sit and I'll draw your portrait."


Crysabel sat in the chair with the grace Cal had seen in her from their first meeting. Her hair looked gold in the soft light. She looked young and vulnerable, but her eyes were determined.


As with Lord Carroway, Cal took her time, looking beneath the surface. Cal had a better idea of what she was doing and she put all her talent to work creating a portrait to speak for her.


When she'd finished, Cal treated the paper with the varnish, then called Crysabel over to look at it.


Chapter 52: Fancy Dress Part 2