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

Paul looked up and red ran across his face before he waved her over. Cal shook her head and smiled, then took a table in the corner.


"What will you have, Sir?" The server took another look and flushed red. "I'm sorry, sorry."


"Don't worry about it." Smiling up at the woman, Cal thought of Merica and her babe halfway around the world. "I'd like something different from what I've been eating on board, but not something that will lay me out sick."


"I know the perfect thing. It is chicken crusted with spices and roasted all day."


"Sounds lovely." Cal thought for a moment. "Bring a glass of wine or tankard of ale, whichever is better. After that, I'd like water."


"Yes, Ma'am." The server bobbed her head and disappeared into the kitchen.


Cal's fingers itched. As Captain, she didn't have much time to draw. Maybe if they laid over here for a few days she could break out her satchel full of her sketchbooks and pencils.


Chapter 3: The Gates of Hell Part 3