
'The Thirteenth Hour' in the series 'The Cruel Gods' by author Trudie Skies is a dark fantasy novel set in the intricate world of Chime, where mortals are bound by the cruel whims of the Gods of the 12 domains. The story follows Kayl, a member of the underground group called the Godless, as she navigates a world of oppression, injustice, and hidden secrets. Alongside Quen, a Diviner and Warden of Chime, Kayl unravels a grand mystery involving elemental beings and a world-changing plot that challenges the existing power structures.
The book is praised for its original world-building, complex characters, and engaging plot that combines elements of steampunk and fantasy. Skies skillfully weaves together themes of power, oppression, and rebellion, drawing parallels to our own societal dynamics. The narrative unfolds through dual perspectives, offering insights into the motivations and struggles of Kayl and Quen as they navigate a world filled with intrigue, danger, and moral ambiguity.
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Sensitive Topics/Content Warnings
The book contains themes of oppression, abuse, and cruelty which may be distressing for some readers, necessitating content warnings.
Has Romance?
Romantic elements are present as a subplot, with a slow burn developing between the main characters, but it does not overshadow the main plot.
From The Publisher:
SPFBO 2022 Finalist
BBNYA 2022 Finalist
Indie Ink Award Winner 2022 for Best Setting and Wittiest Character
WHEN THE SAINTS FAIL, THE SINNERS STEP UP. Cruel gods rule the steam-powered city of Chime, demanding worship and tribute from their mortal subjects. Kayl lost her faith in them long ago, and now seeks to protect vulnerable and downtrodden mortals from their gods' whims. But when Kayl discovers powers that she didn't know she had-and destroys a mortal's soul by accident-she becomes Chime's most wanted.
Quen's job was to pursue sinners, until the visions started. Haunted by foreboding images of his beloved city's destruction, Quen hunts soul-sucking creatures made of aether who prey on its citizens-and Kayl is his number one target.
To ensure Chime's future, Kayl and Quen must discover the truth of Kayl's divine abilities before the gods take matters into their own hands.
For a city that bows to cruel gods, it'll take godless heathens to save it.
The Thirteenth Hour is the first book in The Cruel Gods series-a gaslamp fantasy featuring magical portals, gothic cosmic deities, quaint Britishisms, and steampunk vibes. This is an adult book containing strong language and mature themes that some readers may find disturbing. For a full list of content warnings, visit Trudie Skies's website.
"I love this book. To me, The Thirteenth Hour is a masterpiece. It's a celebration of fantasy and character. It's over-the-top crazy, but it's real and grounded and raw. It is perhaps my favourite self-published book of all time."
Hiu Gregg - The Fantasy Inn
" The Thirteenth Hour is a fast-paced, action-packed, character driven story of the highest quality. I dare you not to fall in love with Kayl's feisty fearlessness, or Quen's quintessentially British awkward charm."
Craig Bookwyrm - FanFiAddict
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1 comment(s)
This book convinced me that my least favorite trope is:
A member of the team totally knows what is going on. However, they coyly keep it a secret while the rest of the team try to figure out the mystery for the whole book.
(Bonus points if they then get angry and turn into a villain because the rest of the team doesn't go along with their grand plan. You know, the plan that they kept a secret. For reasons)
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