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

"My father mentioned you in his letters." Princess Celia held Prince Tam gently, inspecting him at regular intervals as if to be sure he still breathed. "I had made my peace with God and determined to die bravely, keeping my son safe to the end. It still feels like a dream to be here, alive, warm and returning to the palace. I never imagined being rescued."


"Your father wanted Anglia to have its own airship. The one I flew is a prototype. I will have to design heating to make them useful."


"My husband's ship is cold, but we dress warmly and get heat from the boiler set in the centre of the ship. He will not be pleased to see your ship, which makes his look primitive. But I have never seen anything as beautiful."


"You are an ally, I'm sure we can help the prince improve his design."


"That too might anger him. He's a proud man."


As the steam carriage pulled into the palace grounds, HRH Hubert ran out to meet them, followed by Prince Stanagia of Ferandica at more dignified pace.


Chapter 56: First Flight Part 3