Amazing stories blogger, John Dodds, has launched his YA steampunk superheroes novel, The Mechanikals, for Kindle.
“It’s the eve of the First World War, in an alternative England where steam power rules land, sea and sky. But even as the spectre of war looms the country has a more immediate battle to fight on its own shores. Vampire mermen, armies of the undead, burning policemen, invisible airships, undersea weapons and supernatural threats…and an orphaned factory apprentice, Edwin Bryce, thrown into a conflict on an unimaginable scale. Only one force can stand against the terror and devastation facing their countrymen, a group of heroes called The Mechanikals. And when young Edwin acquires his special powers he is enlisted into their ranks, to face the terrifying enemy. “
John has already been praised Michael Moorcock, who wrote of one of his short stories: “John Dodds is one of the most promising new writers I have read for some time. I highly recommend his work.”
The first two novels in the Scottish crime series, The Kendrick Chronicles, Bone Machines and Kali’s Kiss, are published by Blackstone Audio, Inc, USA as audiobooks narrated by well-known SF actor, Robin Sachs (Buffy the Vampire Slayer, Babylon 5, Lost World: Jurassic Park, and more). The third audiobook in the series, Babylon Slide, will be released later this year.
What readers are saying on Amazon about The Mechanikals:
4 out of 5 stars well worth a read 10 May 2014
By Ms J M Pryke
An excellent book, enjoyable, fast moving, very vivid situation. Well-developed characters who are caught up in a kind of parallel universe. The hero goes through a great turmoil of emotions linked to his experiences. I’d recommend anyone to read it.
I only gave it 4 stars as it was an unusual genre for me to read but for science fiction readers …Go for it!
5 out of 5 stars Great read 8 May 2014
Very clever and enjoyable read, loved the approach, reminded me of The League of Extraordinary Gentlemen and reading H.G. Wells, or Sir Arthur Conan Doyle books I loved from the past. Great read thanks.
5 out of 5 stars The Mechanikals May 8, 2014
By Capot
This is basically a story of good vs evil and the discovery by a poor orphan boy of his special powers and those of his friends. There is a good twist in the plot towards the end of the book that most will not see coming. The plot and characters were well thought out and the ending would seem to lead to a follow on book. I’d recommend this book to readers of all ages.
John Dodds is a former journalist and arts publicist. Born in Scotland, he now lives in Bulgaria. As well as blogging and reviewing for Amazing Stories and Adventures in Scifi Publishing (for whom he also is an occasional podcaster), he teaches creative writing at the American College Arcus in Bulgaria. He has had numerous short stories published, three of which received honourable mention in The Year’s Best Horror and Fantasy (St. Martin’s).
His blog is: https://bonemachines.wordpress.com