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

"We may be able to turn this to our advantage." McAllen looked over at Cal. "Though it may be uncomfortable for the Commander. If we act as if we believe the accusations, we may be able to draw out the people responsible."


"How uncomfortable do you plan on making it?" Cal raised an eyebrow. "I don't want anything to get in the way of my work."


"Nothing to interfere with the project, but a rather...inept tail put on you in public places."


"Meaning I will need to go to public places." Cal sighed. "I'm uncomfortable already." The others laughed. "We could go a step further if you think it would force the issue."


"You're thinking of meeting openly with the Ambassador." McAllen rolled his eyes. "It would certainly force the issue. You'd have to be careful to keep the occasions diplomatic. The gossips won't need anything more than the two of you in the same room to go into a frenzy."


Chapter 41: New Suspicions Part 3