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

As promised Pentam and Crysabel made an appearance, made a circuit of the room so the ladies could coo over the coming child. They left soon after.


"His Highness Prince Alfred," intoned a deep voice from the entryway as a younger version of the Crown Prince sauntered into the room. Cal watched him curiously. He was the first royalty she'd seen other than Prince Hubert. Prince Alfred stopped in front of her.


"You have to be Lady Shillingsworth." He inclined his head slightly as Cal curtseyed. "My brother has said you are a brilliant engineer. I am glad to have you working for us, though I must confess to utter ignorance about engines and such."


"What does interest you, Your Highness?"


He tilted his head at her and eyed her for a long couple of breaths.


"The arts, Lady Shillingsworth. What worth is it to have a secure and powerful nation, if we don't have the desire to create and celebrate beauty?"


"Indeed, Your Highness, art is the pulse of a nation."


Chapter 34: New Connections Part 3