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Swango
A magician, a widower, and an automat travel the world… but nothing has prepared them for Swango.
In 1870s Singapore, Celwyn survives a vicious attack only to find it may take even more to endure his own family. His brother Pelaez has returned, insisting on his innocence, and their father Wolfgang Augustus Griffin has his sights set on Nemo's marooned crew. As the Nautilus travels to Beirut, Prague, and Findbar Island, they encounter Swango, a seemingly innocent clairvoyant and drinking buddy from the magician's past, a man who has more help with his predictions than most spiritualists. Meanwhile, Nemo must finally confront the secrets of his own past.
In 1870s Singapore, Celwyn survives a vicious attack only to find it may take even more to endure his own family. His brother Pelaez has returned, insisting on his innocence, and their father Wolfgang Augustus Griffin has his sights set on Nemo's marooned crew. As the Nautilus travels to Beirut, Prague, and Findbar Island, they encounter Swango, a seemingly innocent clairvoyant and drinking buddy from the magician's past, a man who has more help with his predictions than most spiritualists. Meanwhile, Nemo must finally confront the secrets of his own past.
321 pages, Kindle Edition
Published December 29, 2024
3 people want to read
About the author
Lou Kemp
15 books306 followersAlthough originally from California, Lou resides in the Pacific Northwest with family and a herd of cats who like to block her computer screen whenever possible. Before turning to writing full time, she was an engineer and project manager. When not writing, Lou quilts for charity and edits on a pro-bono basis for other authors.
Early work was horror and suspense, later work morphed into a combination of magical realism, mystery and adventure, all painted with a horrific element as needed.
She is one of those writers who doesn’t plan ahead, no outlines, no clue, and sometimes writes herself into a corner. Atmospheric music in the background helps entice the moodier muse that must be present. Listening to Black, by Pearl Jam, really helps.
Chronological milestones:
1988-1993: Short stories in small presses Crossroads, Eldritch Tales, Nightmares, Heliocentric Net, Cabal Asylum, Black October, and Pirate Writings.
1994: Santa Barbara Writers Conference SF/Fantasy/Horror award.
2002: Barnes and Noble anthology 365 Scary Stories
2003-2004: Ghost story anthologies Monsters From Memphis and More Monsters From Memphis. It is possible to find old copies on Amazon.
2003: Honorable mention from Ellen Datlow in The Years Best Fantasy and Horror for one of my short stories.
2009: Anthology story Sherlock’s Opera, Seattle Noir edited by Curt Colbert, Akashic Books. Available through Amazon or Barnes and Noble online.
May 1, 2009, Booklist published a favorable review of my contribution to the anthology. This was a very happy day.
2009: Three books written. Sea of the Vanities, Farm Hall, and Circle of Fifths.
2010: In Memory of the Sibylline, was accepted into the best-selling anthology edited by Charlaine Harris–Crimes by Moonlight. At the time I was the only non-agented, non-book published author accepted into the anthology. The Celwyn series begins. A few months later I hooked up with my agent, Justin Bell of Spectrum Literary.
2018: The story, The Violins Played before Junstan is published in the MWA anthology Odd Partners, edited by Anne Perry. The Celwyn Series begins.
The present: the Celwyn Series continues with books 1-5 available now, and book 6, Swango, available 12-29-24. The Sea of the Vanities is the first companion book, with others to follow. In 2025 Lucky and Mrs. Nemo, book 7 will be released. Book 8 is in draft now.
Early work was horror and suspense, later work morphed into a combination of magical realism, mystery and adventure, all painted with a horrific element as needed.
She is one of those writers who doesn’t plan ahead, no outlines, no clue, and sometimes writes herself into a corner. Atmospheric music in the background helps entice the moodier muse that must be present. Listening to Black, by Pearl Jam, really helps.
Chronological milestones:
1988-1993: Short stories in small presses Crossroads, Eldritch Tales, Nightmares, Heliocentric Net, Cabal Asylum, Black October, and Pirate Writings.
1994: Santa Barbara Writers Conference SF/Fantasy/Horror award.
2002: Barnes and Noble anthology 365 Scary Stories
2003-2004: Ghost story anthologies Monsters From Memphis and More Monsters From Memphis. It is possible to find old copies on Amazon.
2003: Honorable mention from Ellen Datlow in The Years Best Fantasy and Horror for one of my short stories.
2009: Anthology story Sherlock’s Opera, Seattle Noir edited by Curt Colbert, Akashic Books. Available through Amazon or Barnes and Noble online.
May 1, 2009, Booklist published a favorable review of my contribution to the anthology. This was a very happy day.
2009: Three books written. Sea of the Vanities, Farm Hall, and Circle of Fifths.
2010: In Memory of the Sibylline, was accepted into the best-selling anthology edited by Charlaine Harris–Crimes by Moonlight. At the time I was the only non-agented, non-book published author accepted into the anthology. The Celwyn series begins. A few months later I hooked up with my agent, Justin Bell of Spectrum Literary.
2018: The story, The Violins Played before Junstan is published in the MWA anthology Odd Partners, edited by Anne Perry. The Celwyn Series begins.
The present: the Celwyn Series continues with books 1-5 available now, and book 6, Swango, available 12-29-24. The Sea of the Vanities is the first companion book, with others to follow. In 2025 Lucky and Mrs. Nemo, book 7 will be released. Book 8 is in draft now.
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Displaying 1 - 14 of 14 reviews
October 16, 2024
4.5 stars
Swango is Book Six of the magical realism Celwyn series. These books are best read in order as the story continues with each book.
In this tale a magician, a widower, an automaton and a vampire travel to Prague, firstly on Captain Nemo’s famous submarine, then on a magical train. In Prague they spend Christmas with Celwyn’s family while they investigate a murder.
After this, the eclectic group leave for Spain where they plan to help Nemo find his long lost wife. However, they will need the aid of Celwyn’s complex acquaintance Swango, who has the power to manipulate time.
This book sees a lot of action, which keeps the pace moving along. It was good to return to Prague to meet Celwyn’s family again. Celwyn’s story about a previous encounter with Swango was unusual and enlightening, it took up a good portion towards the end of the book and gave vital insight into Celwyn’s past. I am now intrigued about how the story will continue in the next book.
Swango is Book Six of the magical realism Celwyn series. These books are best read in order as the story continues with each book.
In this tale a magician, a widower, an automaton and a vampire travel to Prague, firstly on Captain Nemo’s famous submarine, then on a magical train. In Prague they spend Christmas with Celwyn’s family while they investigate a murder.
After this, the eclectic group leave for Spain where they plan to help Nemo find his long lost wife. However, they will need the aid of Celwyn’s complex acquaintance Swango, who has the power to manipulate time.
This book sees a lot of action, which keeps the pace moving along. It was good to return to Prague to meet Celwyn’s family again. Celwyn’s story about a previous encounter with Swango was unusual and enlightening, it took up a good portion towards the end of the book and gave vital insight into Celwyn’s past. I am now intrigued about how the story will continue in the next book.
November 3, 2024
I asked for and received an ARC of this book.
“Swango” opens with the winding up of the magician Celwyn’s epic battle with his father, Wolfgang, that began at the close of the previous book. His brother Pelaez comes to his assistance and the pair are ultimately saved by Thales, their grandfather. They make it back to the submarine, Nautilus, where a cool reception awaits Pelaez—Captain Nemo detests him for destroying their first flying machine and suspects him of killing the guards. No one trusts him, and his arrogant demeanor doesn’t help. Celwyn pleads his case, so Pelaez is allowed to stay. He is dropped off in Alexandria after he helps them navigate the Suez Canal unseen.
The friends puzzle over why Wolfgang is so set on killing his son, but their first priority is to return to Prague to arrange the funeral of Professor Kang’s wife, Elizabeth. They vow to find her killer and avenge her murder. Wolfgang continues to stalk Celwyn, as another band of killers not only tries to kill Kang, but all those close to him. Danger stalks them all at their homebase, Tellyhouse, and the numerous attacks and pitched battles kept this reader up into the wee hours. There is an addition to the family in the midst of it all, too.
Their next quest is to find Captain Nemo’s wife. Once things calm down, they leave Prague once more for an island where he believes that, if she is still alive, she may be the prisoner of her brother, Dr. Lazlo, who is rumored to practice the dark arts. Celwyn suspects he will need the help of someone more powerful in certain practices than he, and remembers an old friend, Swango, a mercurial character. He puts the matter to the voyagers, relating a harrowing journey Swango once sent him on to persuade them of his useful attributes. They agree and sail to Taormina to pick him up.
“Swango” was a rollicking good read, and I can’t wait for “Lucky” (Book 7) when Swango’s powers will be put to the test.
May 29, 2025
The atmosphere, the mix of magic and old-world mystery—it all just works. Even when I wasn’t sure where the story was headed, I was totally along for the ride.
I won’t spoil anything, but this one felt like a turning point in the series. Definitely a must-read if you’re already into the Celwyn world.
I won’t spoil anything, but this one felt like a turning point in the series. Definitely a must-read if you’re already into the Celwyn world.
January 7, 2025
This book was filled with adventure, intrigue, and magic. Rich characters that have been developed in the series so far come back to play in this one, and to give us another exciting story that's blended in magic, time, and history.
November 20, 2024
As someone deeply fascinated by steampunk (and Jules Verne and trains), Swango continues to deliver the unique blend of magical realism and adventure that has become a hallmark of Lou Kemp's Celwyn series. While the sixth installment could have fallen into predictable patterns, Kemp instead takes us on an unexpected journey that challenges both the characters and readers' expectations.
The story opens following an intense confrontation between Celwyn and his father Wolfgang, reminding the reader that we are fully engaged in the complex family dynamics that drive much of the narrative. Pelaez, Celwyn's brother, adds another layer of intrigue to an already rich tapestry of characters. Kemp's talent for creating flawed, multidimensional personalities shines particularly bright in the portrayal of Swango, a clairvoyant whose abilities come with questionable origins.
What captivates me most about this installment is how Kemp weaves together multiple settings—from Singapore to Prague to Beirut—while maintaining the story's coherence. The scenes aboard the Nautilus feel particularly authentic, channeling the spirit of Verne's original work while creating something entirely new. The magical train sequences later in the book satisfied my obsession with railways.
A murder mystery provides a solid backbone to the plot, while the search for Nemo's wife adds emotional depth to a character who could be portrayed as merely mysterious. Kemp's attention to detail in both the historical and magical elements creates an immersive experience that kept me engaged throughout.
While Swango takes the series in some unexpected directions, it remains true to the core elements that made the previous books successful: strong character development, richly detailed settings, and a perfect balance between action and introspection. This installment proves that six books in, the Celwyn series still has the power to surprise and delight.
The story opens following an intense confrontation between Celwyn and his father Wolfgang, reminding the reader that we are fully engaged in the complex family dynamics that drive much of the narrative. Pelaez, Celwyn's brother, adds another layer of intrigue to an already rich tapestry of characters. Kemp's talent for creating flawed, multidimensional personalities shines particularly bright in the portrayal of Swango, a clairvoyant whose abilities come with questionable origins.
What captivates me most about this installment is how Kemp weaves together multiple settings—from Singapore to Prague to Beirut—while maintaining the story's coherence. The scenes aboard the Nautilus feel particularly authentic, channeling the spirit of Verne's original work while creating something entirely new. The magical train sequences later in the book satisfied my obsession with railways.
A murder mystery provides a solid backbone to the plot, while the search for Nemo's wife adds emotional depth to a character who could be portrayed as merely mysterious. Kemp's attention to detail in both the historical and magical elements creates an immersive experience that kept me engaged throughout.
While Swango takes the series in some unexpected directions, it remains true to the core elements that made the previous books successful: strong character development, richly detailed settings, and a perfect balance between action and introspection. This installment proves that six books in, the Celwyn series still has the power to surprise and delight.
November 25, 2024
I enjoyed the latest book in this series. When I got to the part about Hitler, I couldn't stop turning the pages. The author does an amazing job of world building. Definitely worth reading.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 10, 2025
Once again, Jonas Celwyn takes us on another gripping adventure, now with an unexpected twist. His complicated family life still hangs over him, his companions onboard Nautilus, and those at Tellyhouse like a Damocles’ sword—and a new character, the novel’s namesake, makes a grand entrance.
Jonas’ adventuresome lifestyle is now complicated by romance. While still an incorrigible showoff, prankster and devoted tea aficionado, along Kemp’s deftly paced novel he at times becomes more serious, angrier and gloomier. Nevertheless, Celwyn remains true to himself, torn between his vocation as his friends’ uncompromising protector and his dread to be outwitted—or worse, overpowered—by others, especially those he might need as allies in his fight against true evil.
With Swango, a new type of character widens Kemp’s already remarkable roll call: while not a sorcerer, is this conflict-creator powerful enough to either glamorize or hypnotize Celwyn—or had he, perhaps, made what Jonas experienced really happen? In either case, how did Swango do that?
Although to readers unfamiliar with previous volumes Kemp’s rich tapestry of characters might seem a bit daunting, the permanent quest to creatively right wrongs and constant drive to build new, more wondrous machines, to take on new daring adventures and defeat evil as a true brotherhood of friends—always on the move, yet still enjoying the finer things in life—makes the narrative as charming as it’s original, full of surprises, congeniality and banter. To followers of the series, in the course of “Swango” the characters become even more solid, interesting—and, at the same time, mysterious. In short, once again, Kemp delivers, in spades.
Jonas’ adventuresome lifestyle is now complicated by romance. While still an incorrigible showoff, prankster and devoted tea aficionado, along Kemp’s deftly paced novel he at times becomes more serious, angrier and gloomier. Nevertheless, Celwyn remains true to himself, torn between his vocation as his friends’ uncompromising protector and his dread to be outwitted—or worse, overpowered—by others, especially those he might need as allies in his fight against true evil.
With Swango, a new type of character widens Kemp’s already remarkable roll call: while not a sorcerer, is this conflict-creator powerful enough to either glamorize or hypnotize Celwyn—or had he, perhaps, made what Jonas experienced really happen? In either case, how did Swango do that?
Although to readers unfamiliar with previous volumes Kemp’s rich tapestry of characters might seem a bit daunting, the permanent quest to creatively right wrongs and constant drive to build new, more wondrous machines, to take on new daring adventures and defeat evil as a true brotherhood of friends—always on the move, yet still enjoying the finer things in life—makes the narrative as charming as it’s original, full of surprises, congeniality and banter. To followers of the series, in the course of “Swango” the characters become even more solid, interesting—and, at the same time, mysterious. In short, once again, Kemp delivers, in spades.
January 1, 2025
Lou Kemp’s Swango, the sixth book in the Celwyn series, offers a thrilling continuation of the steampunk-meets-magical-realism saga. Picking up in the 1870s, this installment carries readers from Singapore to Prague, Beirut, and beyond, all while delivering the vivid settings and intricate character work that fans have come to expect.
The story begins with Celwyn recovering from a brutal attack, only to be thrust into a tangled web of family tensions. His estranged brother Pelaez reappears, claiming innocence, while their father, Wolfgang Augustus Griffin, pursues his own agenda tied to Captain Nemo’s legendary Nautilus crew. Kemp excels at weaving personal conflicts with larger, world-spanning adventures, and this book is no exception.
A standout addition to the story is Swango, a clairvoyant whose enigmatic powers and morally ambiguous backstory add layers of intrigue. His connection to Celwyn’s past is revealed through a series of flashbacks, providing both depth and context to Celwyn’s character.
The plot maintains a brisk pace, with scenes aboard the Nautilus and the magical train offering both action and atmosphere. Prague’s Christmas setting adds warmth, even as the group grapples with a murder mystery and Celwyn faces familial reckoning. Meanwhile, Nemo’s search for his wife lends emotional gravity to the narrative.
Swango balances action with introspection, delivering twists that keep the series fresh while staying true to its roots. For fans of steampunk, magical realism, and character-driven adventures, this book is a must-read—but start from the beginning to fully appreciate its intricacies.
The story begins with Celwyn recovering from a brutal attack, only to be thrust into a tangled web of family tensions. His estranged brother Pelaez reappears, claiming innocence, while their father, Wolfgang Augustus Griffin, pursues his own agenda tied to Captain Nemo’s legendary Nautilus crew. Kemp excels at weaving personal conflicts with larger, world-spanning adventures, and this book is no exception.
A standout addition to the story is Swango, a clairvoyant whose enigmatic powers and morally ambiguous backstory add layers of intrigue. His connection to Celwyn’s past is revealed through a series of flashbacks, providing both depth and context to Celwyn’s character.
The plot maintains a brisk pace, with scenes aboard the Nautilus and the magical train offering both action and atmosphere. Prague’s Christmas setting adds warmth, even as the group grapples with a murder mystery and Celwyn faces familial reckoning. Meanwhile, Nemo’s search for his wife lends emotional gravity to the narrative.
Swango balances action with introspection, delivering twists that keep the series fresh while staying true to its roots. For fans of steampunk, magical realism, and character-driven adventures, this book is a must-read—but start from the beginning to fully appreciate its intricacies.
January 22, 2025
As a writer, I know how difficult it is to write an elegant, suspenseful series with a broad array of fascinating characters and historical flair. Lou Kemp's Celwyn series is precisely doing that and more: mixed in the ingredients for her daring steampunk series are clever and stylish feats of highly entertaining mystery and magic plot twists and turns. The fact that in "Swango," the sixth novel of the series, Kemp still shows her ability to surprise the reader testifies to the volume of her talent. The growing cast in "Swango" is set around many family dramas. It starts with the battle between the magician Celwyn and his untrustworthy brother Pelaez against their bloodthirsty father, Wolfgang. Luckily, their grandfather saves them. But then, other family dramas rear their ugly head.
I encourage readers to read this epic tale without first reading spoilers in reviews. You will be in for an entertaining ride with many twists and turns. But simultaneously, Kemp tightens the reigns of her complicated story so you don't get confused.
Of course, having read the five predecessors of the epic helps, but despite the action-packed episodes and swirling events in "Swango," Kemp's storytelling remains clear as spring water. As with all the other books in the series, "Swango" has, at times, the aura of a cozy Fantasy, but the reader learns quickly that this is Lou Kemp's unique style: the pace may seem demure, but believe me, it is not.
For all these reasons, I'm looking forward to reading the seventh episode. I'm curious to learn if Lou Kemp can keep up her high-quality narration.
I encourage readers to read this epic tale without first reading spoilers in reviews. You will be in for an entertaining ride with many twists and turns. But simultaneously, Kemp tightens the reigns of her complicated story so you don't get confused.
Of course, having read the five predecessors of the epic helps, but despite the action-packed episodes and swirling events in "Swango," Kemp's storytelling remains clear as spring water. As with all the other books in the series, "Swango" has, at times, the aura of a cozy Fantasy, but the reader learns quickly that this is Lou Kemp's unique style: the pace may seem demure, but believe me, it is not.
For all these reasons, I'm looking forward to reading the seventh episode. I'm curious to learn if Lou Kemp can keep up her high-quality narration.
November 12, 2024
Whoa—Swango took the series in a completely unexpected direction! Just when I thought I knew the rhythm and style, this installment pulled a fast one, shaking up everything I’d come to expect. Honestly, I’m still wrapping my head around whether the twist was a genius move or a bit too jarring, but one thing’s for sure—it kept me on my toes!
Celwyn’s character continues to grow, and I loved seeing him evolve, especially in his new light romance with Tara, a female vampire who’s refreshingly tough and mysterious. With Annabelle stepping back a bit due to her baby, Tara could really shine as a steady companion for Celwyn and a strong female influence on the major players.
Getting closure around Elizabeth’s death added depth to the story’s arc and allowed me, as the reader, to be ready for the next big thing. Which just might be Celwyn’s past catching up to him. The addition of his brother Pelaez and the ominous family ties ramped up the suspense, while the introduction of Swango—a clairvoyant with a curious edge—definitely piqued my interest. Overall, Swango may have thrown me off balance, but it’s a ride worth taking!
Thanks to the author for providing an ARC.
Celwyn’s character continues to grow, and I loved seeing him evolve, especially in his new light romance with Tara, a female vampire who’s refreshingly tough and mysterious. With Annabelle stepping back a bit due to her baby, Tara could really shine as a steady companion for Celwyn and a strong female influence on the major players.
Getting closure around Elizabeth’s death added depth to the story’s arc and allowed me, as the reader, to be ready for the next big thing. Which just might be Celwyn’s past catching up to him. The addition of his brother Pelaez and the ominous family ties ramped up the suspense, while the introduction of Swango—a clairvoyant with a curious edge—definitely piqued my interest. Overall, Swango may have thrown me off balance, but it’s a ride worth taking!
Thanks to the author for providing an ARC.
February 4, 2025
As a long-time fan of the Celwyn series, the sixth installment is nothing short of thrilling. From the first page, readers are thrust into a gripping confrontation between the immortal magician Jonas Celwyn and his father, who is determined to kill him. Kemp masterfully weaves a tale filled with suspense, magic, and intricate relationships set against a steampunk fantasy backdrop. The vivid descriptions and well-developed characters make the reader feel as if they are part of the story. As Celwyn navigates through the treacherous challenges posed by his father and other adversaries, the narrative keeps you on the edge of your seat. The book is a perfect blend of action, drama, and fantasy, making it a must-read for fans of the genre. Lou Kemp continues to impress with her ability to create an immersive and captivating world in each installment of the Celwyn series.
December 30, 2024
Swango is the sixth book in the Celwyn series where once again we hook up with Nemo, Jules Verne, Professor Kang the automat, Bartholomew, Celwyn’s friend and Tara, a vampire Celwyn is enamored of, to name a few.
This book is an introduction to a new character, Swango, who will soon be joining the series in the next installment.
Per usual, the characters are well-developed and the premise fascinating. The author has created a unique fantasy series while feeding us fun tidbits of history. She has written a one-of-a-kind tale, leaving us to speculate on what is coming next.
This book is an introduction to a new character, Swango, who will soon be joining the series in the next installment.
Per usual, the characters are well-developed and the premise fascinating. The author has created a unique fantasy series while feeding us fun tidbits of history. She has written a one-of-a-kind tale, leaving us to speculate on what is coming next.
November 17, 2024
Lou Kemp does this again in the world and had that element that I was looking for from the previous five books in the Celwyn series. The characters had that concept that I was looking for and enjoyed in this world. Lou Kemp has a strong writing style and am excited for more.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
December 30, 2024
Such a cool book. I couldn't stop reading it. I totally recommend everyone to read this book as fast as they can because it's really good and the characters are fantastic.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Displaying 1 - 14 of 14 reviews