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The Cold Beneath
In the race to the North Pole, who will become the victor, and who will fall to the ravages of the Cold Beneath?
Phillip Syntax is the world's best biomechanic with a checkered past of betrayal and lost love. When given a chance at redemption by the celebrated soldier Gideon Lightbridge, how can he refuse? This ill-fated expedition turns from daring to disastrous when their airship, the Northern Fancy, crashes in the far and frozen north, leaving the crew stranded without hope.
But that isn't the worst of it.
One by one the dead crew members arise from the cold ashes to seek the warmth of the living, and it becomes every man for himself in an effort not to join the ranks of the revenants.
Phillip Syntax is the world's best biomechanic with a checkered past of betrayal and lost love. When given a chance at redemption by the celebrated soldier Gideon Lightbridge, how can he refuse? This ill-fated expedition turns from daring to disastrous when their airship, the Northern Fancy, crashes in the far and frozen north, leaving the crew stranded without hope.
But that isn't the worst of it.
One by one the dead crew members arise from the cold ashes to seek the warmth of the living, and it becomes every man for himself in an effort not to join the ranks of the revenants.
314 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 1, 2012
2 people are currently reading
95 people want to read
About the author
Tonia Brown
84 books101 followersTonia Brown is a Southern author with a penchant for Victorian dead things. She lives in North Carolina with her genius husband and an ever fluctuating number of cats. When not writing she raises unicorns and fights crime with her husband under the code names "Dr. Weird and his sexy sidekick Butternut."
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Displaying 1 - 17 of 17 reviews
May 30, 2012
The Cold Beneath is a tale of doomed high adventure, written from the perspective of the last survivor of a journey, sharing what came to pass in his diary shortly before he plans on willingly embracing his own death at the hands of the tormented crew who traveled with him.
Philip Syntax is a British inventor who has relegated himself to the American south in the latter half of the nineteenth century as a form of self-imposed exile after an invention of his was credited to his former mentor. Arriving at his estate with a proposal for a great journey is Gideon Lightbridge, a former U.S. Colonel and a great explorer who has need of Philip because he is using the very invention Philip had stolen from him years before-a pair clockwork legs that serve the amputee better than his original ones did. Lightbridge wants Philip to maintain the legs in sub-zero temperatures because he plans being the first explorer to make it to the North Pole. They will be traveling in a helium Airship called The Northern Fancy.
Philip regales the reader with the story of his journey, leading up to his ultimate fate at the hands of the crew who were possessed by a strange and nightmarish sickness in the Arctic Northern extremes.
The Cold Beneath is a very entertaining steam punk tale tinged with the flavor of a seaborne mystery. While the crew guides the ship upon the air, it felt almost as if they were on the high seas, though the seas in this book are the frozen wastes of the far north. This is a zombie tale, and much of the fun of this story lies in the creative usage of the undead here, which are blue tinged nightmares that are somewhat Frankenstein-ish in appearance and actions. This is also classic Gothic type horror told in diary form. It would be easy to imagine this story being turned into an old Hammer classic, with devious deeds and plenty of dark mysteries afoot throughout. There is also romance in this story, though even that is intriguing and riddled with twists and turns. The author blends all these different styles together flawlessly and makes them all fit together nicely.
Tonia Brown has created a terrific voice for her narrator that puts the reader in the story and made me appreciate every crisp detail as it is revealed. Philip Syntax is a thoroughly realized character, as are the other members of the crew of The Northern Fancy who play a major part in this tale such as Lightbridge, Albert, the Chief Mechanic, and Geraldine Goode, a former flame of Philip’s and the doctor on board the air ship.
If there is any sort of failing with this tale, perhaps it lies within the diary format. By nature, things are revealed in advance of a full description and the reader knows things, such as the ultimate fate of the crew from the very beginning. Still, surprises abound and as with any good mystery, I found myself guessing at the answers that reveal themselves in a highly satisfactory way within the last few pages of the book.
The Cold Beneath is a great bet for anyone who enjoys Gothic horror, mysteries, steam punk, or intense zombie action. The characters are colorful, the pace is excellent, and the undead are some of the creepiest I’ve seen in quite some time.
Philip Syntax is a British inventor who has relegated himself to the American south in the latter half of the nineteenth century as a form of self-imposed exile after an invention of his was credited to his former mentor. Arriving at his estate with a proposal for a great journey is Gideon Lightbridge, a former U.S. Colonel and a great explorer who has need of Philip because he is using the very invention Philip had stolen from him years before-a pair clockwork legs that serve the amputee better than his original ones did. Lightbridge wants Philip to maintain the legs in sub-zero temperatures because he plans being the first explorer to make it to the North Pole. They will be traveling in a helium Airship called The Northern Fancy.
Philip regales the reader with the story of his journey, leading up to his ultimate fate at the hands of the crew who were possessed by a strange and nightmarish sickness in the Arctic Northern extremes.
The Cold Beneath is a very entertaining steam punk tale tinged with the flavor of a seaborne mystery. While the crew guides the ship upon the air, it felt almost as if they were on the high seas, though the seas in this book are the frozen wastes of the far north. This is a zombie tale, and much of the fun of this story lies in the creative usage of the undead here, which are blue tinged nightmares that are somewhat Frankenstein-ish in appearance and actions. This is also classic Gothic type horror told in diary form. It would be easy to imagine this story being turned into an old Hammer classic, with devious deeds and plenty of dark mysteries afoot throughout. There is also romance in this story, though even that is intriguing and riddled with twists and turns. The author blends all these different styles together flawlessly and makes them all fit together nicely.
Tonia Brown has created a terrific voice for her narrator that puts the reader in the story and made me appreciate every crisp detail as it is revealed. Philip Syntax is a thoroughly realized character, as are the other members of the crew of The Northern Fancy who play a major part in this tale such as Lightbridge, Albert, the Chief Mechanic, and Geraldine Goode, a former flame of Philip’s and the doctor on board the air ship.
If there is any sort of failing with this tale, perhaps it lies within the diary format. By nature, things are revealed in advance of a full description and the reader knows things, such as the ultimate fate of the crew from the very beginning. Still, surprises abound and as with any good mystery, I found myself guessing at the answers that reveal themselves in a highly satisfactory way within the last few pages of the book.
The Cold Beneath is a great bet for anyone who enjoys Gothic horror, mysteries, steam punk, or intense zombie action. The characters are colorful, the pace is excellent, and the undead are some of the creepiest I’ve seen in quite some time.
August 1, 2012
A Victorian scientist who has withdrawn from society because he was betrayed by his mentor and sweetheart is enticed to join an airship expedition to one of the poles (forget which one). To his dismay, his one true love is the doctor on the expedition! She has invented a concoction to keep the men healthy on the long trip. Alas, it turns out to have a nasty side effect and then the fun begins!
The hero is a very proper Englishman who is also romantic and more than a little naive. The reader can see what is going on wayyy before him and, if I could have, I would have shaken some sense into him, lol. You can't help rooting for someone so idealistic and I was relieved that the author didn't take the easy way out that so many other writers in this genre do and just kill off everyone.
Tonia Brown somehow manages to combine steam punk and zombies and produce a book that has a strong feel of Mary Shelley's Frankenstein about it. The language, the ominous atmosphere, the sense of excitement at exploring new horizons all combined to make me feel I was reading a Classic.
It wasn't perfect, admittedly. For one thing, it took a good third of the book before the first zombie appeared! I guess one could argue that the author was trying to build atmosphere and tension, but I would still have liked to see the story speeded up a little bit.
I look forward to reading some more of Brown's books.
The hero is a very proper Englishman who is also romantic and more than a little naive. The reader can see what is going on wayyy before him and, if I could have, I would have shaken some sense into him, lol. You can't help rooting for someone so idealistic and I was relieved that the author didn't take the easy way out that so many other writers in this genre do and just kill off everyone.
Tonia Brown somehow manages to combine steam punk and zombies and produce a book that has a strong feel of Mary Shelley's Frankenstein about it. The language, the ominous atmosphere, the sense of excitement at exploring new horizons all combined to make me feel I was reading a Classic.
It wasn't perfect, admittedly. For one thing, it took a good third of the book before the first zombie appeared! I guess one could argue that the author was trying to build atmosphere and tension, but I would still have liked to see the story speeded up a little bit.
I look forward to reading some more of Brown's books.
June 4, 2015
I loved this book so much, I produced the audiobook version of it.
This was a page turner and no mistake. The authors prose runs through your head like a haemophiliacs blood through a sieve. The characters are perfectly presented and are believable, you do get to actually care about whether they live or die. Often when reading books like this, I find that at times you end up hoping the undead overwhelm the protagonists, just so the nightmare can be over. Not so here. I never wanted the nightmare to end.
But end it does, sadly.
This was a page turner and no mistake. The authors prose runs through your head like a haemophiliacs blood through a sieve. The characters are perfectly presented and are believable, you do get to actually care about whether they live or die. Often when reading books like this, I find that at times you end up hoping the undead overwhelm the protagonists, just so the nightmare can be over. Not so here. I never wanted the nightmare to end.
But end it does, sadly.
October 11, 2013
My review for: The Cold Beneath by Tonia Brown
Narrator: Chris Barnes from Dynamic Ram Audio
My rating: 5 out of 5 stars
Shanna Roberson
This is actually my first time reading Tonia Brown and listening to Chris Barnes and the pair are extraordinary together.
The Cold Beneath is a mix of steampunk, science and of course, the undead. A very, very creepy version of the undead. While this isn’t normally my cup of tea, Chris Barnes’ performance really captured me and didn’t let go until the very end.
With a strong storyline with plenty of twists and turns, its darker gothic feel and one insanely wicked villain, The Cold Beneath is zombie horror at its finest. Tonia’s attention to detail really helps to paint a very visual and eerie world. Tonia’s style of storytelling is unique and definitely sets a mood in this genre. You really feel what the characters feel; the fear, the betrayal and the twist at the end isn’t what you would expect.
Chris Barnes’ ability to seamlessly switch accents without any effort at all and for him to actually act the scenes out truly made the book for me. I quickly got caught up in his/characters’ emotions and for me, that makes a brilliant narrator. I am normally not a fan of male narrators; it takes a lot for one to wow me and Chris Barnes’ has done just that. Amazing performance of an amazing book! Can’t wait to listen/read more from both author and narrator.
Narrator: Chris Barnes from Dynamic Ram Audio
My rating: 5 out of 5 stars
Shanna Roberson
This is actually my first time reading Tonia Brown and listening to Chris Barnes and the pair are extraordinary together.
The Cold Beneath is a mix of steampunk, science and of course, the undead. A very, very creepy version of the undead. While this isn’t normally my cup of tea, Chris Barnes’ performance really captured me and didn’t let go until the very end.
With a strong storyline with plenty of twists and turns, its darker gothic feel and one insanely wicked villain, The Cold Beneath is zombie horror at its finest. Tonia’s attention to detail really helps to paint a very visual and eerie world. Tonia’s style of storytelling is unique and definitely sets a mood in this genre. You really feel what the characters feel; the fear, the betrayal and the twist at the end isn’t what you would expect.
Chris Barnes’ ability to seamlessly switch accents without any effort at all and for him to actually act the scenes out truly made the book for me. I quickly got caught up in his/characters’ emotions and for me, that makes a brilliant narrator. I am normally not a fan of male narrators; it takes a lot for one to wow me and Chris Barnes’ has done just that. Amazing performance of an amazing book! Can’t wait to listen/read more from both author and narrator.
October 5, 2012
Review of The Cold Beneath by Tonia Brown-read by Chris Barnes, Dynamic Ram Productions
5 Stars
Let me first say that as a rule, I have not been a fan of audiobooks-as a visual (and sometimes kinetic) learner, I benefit from reading the words, rather than from listening. However, Chris Barnes has made me a convert with his most excellent interpretation of author Tonia Brown’s “The Cold Beneath.” In fact, I am now on my second “listen” of this very incredible production. Mr. Barnes is exceptional at not only reading, but dramatically interpreting, the story. I highly recommend this to everyone-those who usually enjoy audible books, and those who need to experience this for the first time.
Mr. Barnes, you not only have a fan, you have a market for future audio-book productions.
http://www.dynamic-ram.co.uk/home
5 Stars
Let me first say that as a rule, I have not been a fan of audiobooks-as a visual (and sometimes kinetic) learner, I benefit from reading the words, rather than from listening. However, Chris Barnes has made me a convert with his most excellent interpretation of author Tonia Brown’s “The Cold Beneath.” In fact, I am now on my second “listen” of this very incredible production. Mr. Barnes is exceptional at not only reading, but dramatically interpreting, the story. I highly recommend this to everyone-those who usually enjoy audible books, and those who need to experience this for the first time.
Mr. Barnes, you not only have a fan, you have a market for future audio-book productions.
http://www.dynamic-ram.co.uk/home
September 19, 2012
I won this book and got it as an ebook which was a new experience for me. Also new for me was the genre of Steampunk novels and I truly am now a fan! The style was PERFECT as the horror of the situation grows upon Phillip the narrator, and upon the reader as the trip gets colder and the details clearer. I am a longtime fan of horror, especially a good Zombie tale and there was plenty here that was familiar but with unexpected twists and turns that sent me happily careening from page to page. I know I want to read a lot more by this author, and was delighted to find a new genre to explore as well- More please!
July 26, 2012
I loved this book. Tonia Brown captures the feel and tone of Jules Verne and other writers of that era with an elegance and modern accessibility of prose that just amazed me. Her take on zombies is original and creepy; the characters sympathetic and believable, and the reveal at the end.. Just loved it. The first person narrative and story structure work from beginning to end. Did I mention I love this book?
August 6, 2012
As one of the first to write zombies in a steampunk milieu (2008), I must say Brown's book is a slow burn with one awesome pay off. If you can make it through the rather slow opening, it delivers tremendously in the second half.
August 16, 2012
While the steampunk elements are minimal, I really enjoyed the horror of the zombies. They scream! Yikes! Snappy pace and interesting twists await the reader of this book.
December 5, 2012
This book is not your normal Zombie type book. it's setting back in time is unique as well as the way the zombies came to be. Even the main character is not your normal butt kicking, zombie killing character. It's not just about zombies but about heartache, lost loves, & more. If you are looking for a different kind of zombies book w/a steampunk flair then stop searching as you have just found it! I don't want to write any spoilers but got to say LightBridge is my favorite character! oh & if you really want an awesomely unique experience then get the audio book version of this by Chris Barnes as you read it! He does an amazing job w/all the different voices & if you don't get goosebumps during certain parts of it something is wrong w/ya! hehe
Tonia Brown
Tonia Brown
April 24, 2014
A Classic Gothic Steampunk take on Zombies. The writing style reminded me of Anne Rice or Mary Shelley. The story is told by Philip, a rather foppish 19th century scientist. He tells the tale of how he is lured into this mission to find true North. Needless to say, the whole journey goes pear shaped.
This story isn't your typical zombie gore tale, the voice of the narrator gives the book a more emotional spin. The author strikes me as a romantic at heart. The setting and the tone of the novel are very strong and detailed, and the steampunk elements are lovely.
An enjoyable read for either a Steampunk or a Zombie fan, and a nice take on the whole myth.
I listened to the audio book, narrated by Chris Barnes. His voice really added a new dimension to the piece.
This story isn't your typical zombie gore tale, the voice of the narrator gives the book a more emotional spin. The author strikes me as a romantic at heart. The setting and the tone of the novel are very strong and detailed, and the steampunk elements are lovely.
An enjoyable read for either a Steampunk or a Zombie fan, and a nice take on the whole myth.
I listened to the audio book, narrated by Chris Barnes. His voice really added a new dimension to the piece.
October 22, 2012
I really enjoyed this book. It was fun and fascinating and had zombies. Does it get better? The narrator was fantastic, and the story was intriguing. It was a true page turner.
I've read other stories by Ms. Brown, and she never dissapoints. She is a talented author with a great imagination. I definitely recommend this book!
I've read other stories by Ms. Brown, and she never dissapoints. She is a talented author with a great imagination. I definitely recommend this book!
March 20, 2013
I really enjoyed this book. It was a unique take on the zombie genre while merging with some steampunk elements. The difference between 4 and 5 stars is that I would of liked to have seen a bit more steampunk and a bit less pining over you-know-who.
December 31, 2012
Please find my review here: http://audiobookreviewer.com/Audioboo...
November 18, 2018
This time the zombies are in the snow. They got there in a balloon. Steampunk!
The blurb serves to make this book look a lot more original than it really is. When you strip away the "original" elements, what actually makes up the bulk of the story isn't really original. It's still a story of the undead rising to claim the living, just with more padding before the first outbreak.
The Cold Beneath isn't a bad book but it's not an original one and there's nothing that stays with you after the last page. If zombie books are your thing and you've read a lot then you could do worse, if you haven't dipped into the Zombie Terror genre then there are much better examples out there. If you're a steampunk devotee then you're probably destined to be disappointed as the steampunk elements are daubed on lightly after the event rather than making up the meat of the story.
The blurb serves to make this book look a lot more original than it really is. When you strip away the "original" elements, what actually makes up the bulk of the story isn't really original. It's still a story of the undead rising to claim the living, just with more padding before the first outbreak.
The Cold Beneath isn't a bad book but it's not an original one and there's nothing that stays with you after the last page. If zombie books are your thing and you've read a lot then you could do worse, if you haven't dipped into the Zombie Terror genre then there are much better examples out there. If you're a steampunk devotee then you're probably destined to be disappointed as the steampunk elements are daubed on lightly after the event rather than making up the meat of the story.
January 11, 2015
decent zombie story. pretty sad as a steampunk tale. some research into the period and the genre is needed to make this a better read. 3 stars
November 27, 2016
Closer to 3.5 stars. Really great spin on zombies. Super light on the Steampunk portion which was a bit disappointing. Still a really enjoyable read and I liked the twist at the end.
Displaying 1 - 17 of 17 reviews