Spark, A Creative Anthology: Volume VIII

by Brian Fence

Editions:Paperback

The Eighth Bible of New Egypt by Brian Fence

JACOB ORANGE is a covert mage operating under the highest of agencies. He's summoned of all places to the Pine Barrens in New Jersey to investigate a metaphysical phenomenon.

Published: December 23, 2016
Publisher: Nephilim Publishing
Editors:

Brian James Lewis

Cover Artists:

Luke Spooner

Tags:

format - anthology, format - paperback, format - short stories, identity - gay, identity - gender fluid, what - topic - secret organization, where - general - small town, who - occupation - mage, who - type - angels, who - type - magical humans

Languages Available: English
Languages Available: English

About the Author

BRIAN FENCE is an author of fantasy and science fiction novels, short stories, and poetry. He lives near the beach outside New York City — though his wanderlust often takes him elsewhere — with his husband and five cats, one of which has demonstrated an obsession with ramen.

His debut novel, Librarian, was released unto the world in May 2013 to critical acclaim, followed by its sequel, Apprentice, in December 2014. The books comprise the first two novels in a fantasy trilogy titled “Lenna’s Arc,” which will conclude (or will it?) with the release of the third work, Freewoman (2022).

His other upcoming machinations include several short stories and a collection of poetry.

Check This Out

Word Count: Click here to reveal22000 (Click here to hide)

Summary: A sellsword’s bargain. A burgeoning desire. A future balanced on the point of a blade. Sellsword Des is travelling alone in a dry and dusty southern land, after a spectacular bust up with her best friend. She’s running low on coin, so when former client Karina offers her a job leading her caravan’s security through brigand country, it feels like a gift. Des has done the route before, but she isn’t sure about leading solo. She recommends Karina hire Cap, a rugged old mercenary, to head up the crew. Maybe she’ll even learn a thing or two about how to lead, in between the delightful distraction of Karina’s flirtations and keeping the marauders at bay. As they head off on their long trip across Rescalin, though, the wheels start to come off Des’s plan. The crew is drinking too much, even on duty, and Cap is dismissive of the dangers she identifies. Des worries she’s made the wrong call by putting Cap as the lead, and Karina is in her ear, wanting her to take over. As brigands close in, will Des back the merc she put in charge? Or will she take over — and risk the caravan’s safety resting on her blade alone? If you enjoy badass, sword-wielding women, an Australian-inspired setting, sapphic fantasy, and untrustworthy mercenaries, pick up A Hired Blade today, and join Des on her journey.