Markhat and Darla journey into the unknown, where Trolls and worse await those who dare the wastelands, and old magics take on new life when fueled by vengeance and the undying power of greed.
Three thousand miles of haunted prairie lie between Rannit’s bustling streets and tiny frontier town of Railsend. Finder Markhat’s new case puts him aboard the steam locomotive Western Star, bound for Railsend…and the edge of the world. But before the Star sees its first sunrise, blood is spilled, and Markhat finds himself at the center of a murderous mystery.
When wartime magic of the killing sort enters the picture, Markhat realizes not all the passengers are who they seem. There’s a rogue sorcerer aboard the Western Star, a sorcerer bent on homicide—and not just one death will do.
Pressed into service by railroad law, Markhat must unravel the tangled web of lies before the next life taken is his own.
Warning: This novel should not be combined with corn syrup. Honestly, it’s a shame we have to mention that, but after the events of last May (we’re really sorry about your ebook reader, Mr. Dercroft-Higgins) it’s best to state this explicitly. Also, clinical studies show that koi and other members of the carp family may find portions of Chapter Eight disconcerting. Although frankly, with fish it’s hard to tell. Anyway, no corn syrup and no koi or carp. Please refer other complaints to the Bureau of Odd Happenstance, and remember to include a self-addressed, stamped badger with your inquiry.