The Charismatics

Winner of Self-Publishing Review’s Grand Prize and First Prize in Fiction 2015 Awards B.R.A.G. Medallion Honoree for Excellence in Indie Publishing Ashley R. Carlson’s award-winning fantasy debut will satisfy the appetites of those who enjoyed the romance of Stephenie Meyer’s TWILIGHT, the stirrings of rebellion in Suzanne Collins’ THE HUNGER GAMES, and the steampunk universe of Philip Pullman’s THE GOLDEN COMPASS.

I can’t shake this feeling that I’ve been lied to, nor that I’m partly to blame. I’ve spent my life following orders, never questioning Legalia’s decisions for me, for the world. I had food, shelter, better living conditions than most-why rock the boat? Because you can choose between doing what is comfortable, or doing what is right, answers the small voice within me. I was afraid of that. An arranged marriage. A corrupt government called Legalia. A forbidden spiritual realm. Duchess Ambrose Killaher was just seventeen years old when exiled to Shinery-a city of snow and darkness-to marry a man who despised her, finding her only solace in an invisible companion named Roan. Now as the poor starve in the streets below and rebellious acts become a frequent occurrence, Shinery holds its yearly celebration to commemorate Legalia’s rule. But when Ambrose stumbles into a hidden courtroom and witnesses a violent murder, she is thrust into a secret world of the supernatural-one that could endanger everyone she’s grown to care for. With the help of a handsome stranger, Ambrose learns of the past Legalia has covered up, and that she alone possesses the power to stop their unspeakable plans for the future.

Praise for The Charismatics “Somehow this book seems to have slipped through the net, and we felt that it deserves a chance to be seen, as it reads like a truly commercial work with original and enchanting touches while remaining an adult book – the main character is married instead of being a teen with her parents, and this is what brings an unusual palette worth reading. An accessible and gripping story.” -Self-Publishing Review’s First Prize in Fiction Award 2015

“The grand prize goes to Ashley because of her beautiful presentation and intricate story writing, using a popular Steampunk theme that is somewhere between The Golden Compass and The Hunger Games.” -Self-Publishing Review’s Grand Prize Award 2015

“‘The Charismatics’ is a top-notch read and I recommend it highly. I would also suggest putting Ms. Carlson on your watch list – a talent like this is hard to ignore. I think we’ll be seeing a lot of her in the years to come.” -reader’s review

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