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The Weather Casters #1
A Hole in the Ice
In a world similar to our own during the 1800s and early 1900s, two political factions seek an object that could be the key to ultimate power. This object, a supernatural compass, falls into the hands of sixteen-year-old Parsifal. When Sir Oaktree comes to retrieve it, Parsifal accidentally kills him with it (or so he believes).
Parsifal sets off across the globe on his uncle’s “scientific” expedition, hoping to escape. But the expedition itself is inextricably tied to the compass he tries to keep secret. Balder Balfra and Lady Vasille (whom Parsifal is drawn to despite her apparent involvement with his uncle) are also travelling on this expedition, but whose side are they on? And which side is the right one?
Parsifal sets off across the globe on his uncle’s “scientific” expedition, hoping to escape. But the expedition itself is inextricably tied to the compass he tries to keep secret. Balder Balfra and Lady Vasille (whom Parsifal is drawn to despite her apparent involvement with his uncle) are also travelling on this expedition, but whose side are they on? And which side is the right one?
- GenresFantasyYoung Adult
300 pages, Paperback
First published September 19, 2014
3 people are currently reading
502 people want to read
About the author
McCallum J. Morgan
11 books11 followersMcCallum J. Morgan writes steampunk fantasy, alternate history, and science fiction, mixing in the mythical and the macabre. He also dabbles in the dark arts of painting and costuming.
Inspired at a young age by the fantasy novels he read voraciously, he set out to become an author. After many failed attempts to write various books, he became superstitious and at last approached what he termed 'AAAB' or Attempt-at-a-book, so as not to jinx the thing. It worked.
His first novel was published when he was nineteen and now, at 23, he has a full trilogy of steampunk fantasy, called the Weather Casters Saga, along with the standalone horror-comedy, Ambulatory Cadavers. His writing is inspired by the fiction he loves: old myth, classic horror, and the kinds of books where the characters leap off the page. A bit eccentric, he prefers to appear at signing events and comicons in book-related costumes which he sews himself. He is also a self proclaimed amateur artist, with a predilection for watercolors and coffee...occasionally intermixed by accident.
Inspired at a young age by the fantasy novels he read voraciously, he set out to become an author. After many failed attempts to write various books, he became superstitious and at last approached what he termed 'AAAB' or Attempt-at-a-book, so as not to jinx the thing. It worked.
His first novel was published when he was nineteen and now, at 23, he has a full trilogy of steampunk fantasy, called the Weather Casters Saga, along with the standalone horror-comedy, Ambulatory Cadavers. His writing is inspired by the fiction he loves: old myth, classic horror, and the kinds of books where the characters leap off the page. A bit eccentric, he prefers to appear at signing events and comicons in book-related costumes which he sews himself. He is also a self proclaimed amateur artist, with a predilection for watercolors and coffee...occasionally intermixed by accident.
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Displaying 1 - 11 of 11 reviews
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August 18, 2014Here it is, after five years of writing, I'm extremely excited to bring you "A Hole in the Ice." Come and join the expedition!
March 25, 2016
I was lucky enough to win this book from a contest on Clara Gillow Clark's blog. "A Hole in the Ice" is a fast paced adventure that while it seemed rushed at points didn't disappoint with thrills and twists. I won't spoil the ending, but I was left with more questions than answers and cannot wait to get my hands on the sequel to find out more!
February 6, 2019
A seemingly historical fantasy period piece involving all sorts of ideas from the late 1800’s. A Gothic style written story of a coming of age boy who is thrust into a situation unexpectantly. This tale is perfect for readers who love Jules Verne, and Tolkien’s the Hobbit and Lord of the Rings. So much going on this neat little gem of a book. A promising read by a young author. I will admit this is some great work for a first time novel. You can tell Morgan submerges himself into the environment he’s created.
Most of the story revolves around a mystical compass that Parsifal, the protagonist of the story, becomes obsessed with. Falling in his lap by chance one evening after dinning with lords, his life changes at an instant, becoming overwhelming devoured by the compass’s curiosities. There is a power within “It” and Parsifal will do anything to understand its function. Subjectedly forced to make a journey with his “aloof” uncle for safety reasons, he crosses seas and country side to partake in an archeological exploration of unbelievable and majestic discovery. I found myself escaping into this story daily, wanting to read more of the antics of Parsifal and his squeamish stomach, Balder the mysterious traveler, and Lady Verssille, a super secretive yet seductive woman. Couple these character traits with lavishly described scenes and ballroom dancing and poof, you have yourself a wonderful mystery tale with a touch of elegance.
As referenced before, this story possesses traits of the hobbit, meaning, Parsifal’s obsession with the compass. I could see a strong resemblance here as it was with Gollum or shmeagal and the one ring of power. It didn’t go as far as Parsifal naming it his “precious” but you can certainly ascertain these feelings. It’s funny that Morgan mentioned 80 days around the world in the book because I was already having these relating thoughts. Moving from one country to the next, stopping to take in and learn all that each had to offer. Among other things, a steampunk vibe is definitely present in this tale filled with fashion and steam engines. An airship even makes an appearance.
McCallum Morgan is defintely a new author that will do very well in the literary world. And let us not forget to mention he is a well to do artist as well. He’s created some imagery in the likes of his book characters and they are quite remarkable. I will be reading up on his other work for sure.
5 out of 5 stars.
Author F. D. Gross
Grelldragon@hotmail.com
Most of the story revolves around a mystical compass that Parsifal, the protagonist of the story, becomes obsessed with. Falling in his lap by chance one evening after dinning with lords, his life changes at an instant, becoming overwhelming devoured by the compass’s curiosities. There is a power within “It” and Parsifal will do anything to understand its function. Subjectedly forced to make a journey with his “aloof” uncle for safety reasons, he crosses seas and country side to partake in an archeological exploration of unbelievable and majestic discovery. I found myself escaping into this story daily, wanting to read more of the antics of Parsifal and his squeamish stomach, Balder the mysterious traveler, and Lady Verssille, a super secretive yet seductive woman. Couple these character traits with lavishly described scenes and ballroom dancing and poof, you have yourself a wonderful mystery tale with a touch of elegance.
As referenced before, this story possesses traits of the hobbit, meaning, Parsifal’s obsession with the compass. I could see a strong resemblance here as it was with Gollum or shmeagal and the one ring of power. It didn’t go as far as Parsifal naming it his “precious” but you can certainly ascertain these feelings. It’s funny that Morgan mentioned 80 days around the world in the book because I was already having these relating thoughts. Moving from one country to the next, stopping to take in and learn all that each had to offer. Among other things, a steampunk vibe is definitely present in this tale filled with fashion and steam engines. An airship even makes an appearance.
McCallum Morgan is defintely a new author that will do very well in the literary world. And let us not forget to mention he is a well to do artist as well. He’s created some imagery in the likes of his book characters and they are quite remarkable. I will be reading up on his other work for sure.
5 out of 5 stars.
Author F. D. Gross
Grelldragon@hotmail.com
October 6, 2015
I won this novel in a goodreads drawing.
A meandering story about a kid in a sort of allo-historical Victorian England. His Uncle, a powerful Lord, comes home with a mysterious woman, and they go on an expedition to find a lost city of mermaids.
Most of the book takes place in various train compartments, with small bursts of action in between. Almost more of a mood piece than anything else. The kid never really seems to know what is going on, he's just along for the ride.
Not bad, there's some real potential here.
A meandering story about a kid in a sort of allo-historical Victorian England. His Uncle, a powerful Lord, comes home with a mysterious woman, and they go on an expedition to find a lost city of mermaids.
Most of the book takes place in various train compartments, with small bursts of action in between. Almost more of a mood piece than anything else. The kid never really seems to know what is going on, he's just along for the ride.
Not bad, there's some real potential here.
September 10, 2019
A wild exciting adventure; confusing even to the end.
All throughout this book, I never did figure out what everyone was after. There was a hidden city under the frozen sea in Siberia, some mermaids, some spies, and a beautiful woman who could magically make people (men) do her bidding. I would like to read a sequel; maybe then I would know what was going on. Something about controlling the weather.
All throughout this book, I never did figure out what everyone was after. There was a hidden city under the frozen sea in Siberia, some mermaids, some spies, and a beautiful woman who could magically make people (men) do her bidding. I would like to read a sequel; maybe then I would know what was going on. Something about controlling the weather.
Currently reading
May 7, 2015Received free from Goodreads First Reads, thank you!
August 14, 2022
An intriguing steampunk-esque adventure story. Lots of mystery, but very few answers by the end of the book. Granted, this is the first book of a trilogy, but I felt like there was very little resolution, even for the first part of a series. The main character was likeable, but extremely passive--he was full of questions, but never asked them nor did much investigating on his own.
A good beginning to a series, if the following books are stronger. Definitely a creative premise for the story and the world.
A good beginning to a series, if the following books are stronger. Definitely a creative premise for the story and the world.
January 5, 2022
Great fantasy book to read
March 9, 2024
A good story, with a great ending.
November 17, 2016
This book was fantastic. The author was kind enough to send me signed a copy, how neat! ^-^ I've been wanting to read this book for a while, and had pretty high expectations, and I was NOT disappointed! The talent in this novel blew me away. I don't know about you, but I don't know many teenagers focused enough to complete an entire novel, let alone have it published! So, my hat's off, I am still in awe.
The writing voice is very sophisticated, again, it is difficult to believe it was written by a teenager. The author is obviously very intelligent, with a love of history and culture. We undertake this journey through a rich world with a stellar cast of characters.
I marveled at the European details in this novel as the crew journeyed across it; they seemed so realistic! There are mentions of classic literature and classical music, demonstrating a very refined taste. I love how much dancing there was in this book: dancing speaks to my soul. I didn't really grasp the steampunk element until towards the end of the book, but the Victorian details with just a touch of, but not too much, magic were very enjoyable. It was an utter delight to be transported into this world. I'm really hoping there will be more mermaids in book 2. So excited for that!
The characterization was superb. I found Parsifal to be a grounded young man. I must say, it was really refreshing to read a (well-done) tale from a male's point of view. Most of the books I read are written from a female's perspective, so it was nice. Parsifal is cautious of his surroundings, and not very well-explored at the start of the novel, but that all changes when he is swept away on this magnificent journey. He is introspective and thoughtful. Though he was not without flaws: at times, he could be a little selfish and hesitant.
Lady Vasille was BOMB DOT COM. I LOVE female characters like this! She is seductive, in a deadly way. Utter perfection! I loved how her motives were unclear, and we never knew whether we should like her or hate her. She's a character we love, but do we hate her? I was as drawn in as Parsifal from the moment we are introduced to her.
Balder and the uncle were very well-executed as well. I loved how we saw both character's vulnerabilities at the end of the novel. Just excellent!
My only real complaint has nothing to do with the author's writing whatsoever; it's regarding the various typos I saw within the book. :( Not that I was reading and looking for things, but there were a lot of extra/missing spaces or missing commas, etc..
Give this book a try! You really won't regret it! This is quality literature; unlike SO MUCH of the YA on shelves out there these days and watch this space: there is some serious emerging talent here!
The writing voice is very sophisticated, again, it is difficult to believe it was written by a teenager. The author is obviously very intelligent, with a love of history and culture. We undertake this journey through a rich world with a stellar cast of characters.
I marveled at the European details in this novel as the crew journeyed across it; they seemed so realistic! There are mentions of classic literature and classical music, demonstrating a very refined taste. I love how much dancing there was in this book: dancing speaks to my soul. I didn't really grasp the steampunk element until towards the end of the book, but the Victorian details with just a touch of, but not too much, magic were very enjoyable. It was an utter delight to be transported into this world. I'm really hoping there will be more mermaids in book 2. So excited for that!
The characterization was superb. I found Parsifal to be a grounded young man. I must say, it was really refreshing to read a (well-done) tale from a male's point of view. Most of the books I read are written from a female's perspective, so it was nice. Parsifal is cautious of his surroundings, and not very well-explored at the start of the novel, but that all changes when he is swept away on this magnificent journey. He is introspective and thoughtful. Though he was not without flaws: at times, he could be a little selfish and hesitant.
Lady Vasille was BOMB DOT COM. I LOVE female characters like this! She is seductive, in a deadly way. Utter perfection! I loved how her motives were unclear, and we never knew whether we should like her or hate her. She's a character we love, but do we hate her? I was as drawn in as Parsifal from the moment we are introduced to her.
Balder and the uncle were very well-executed as well. I loved how we saw both character's vulnerabilities at the end of the novel. Just excellent!
My only real complaint has nothing to do with the author's writing whatsoever; it's regarding the various typos I saw within the book. :( Not that I was reading and looking for things, but there were a lot of extra/missing spaces or missing commas, etc..
Give this book a try! You really won't regret it! This is quality literature; unlike SO MUCH of the YA on shelves out there these days and watch this space: there is some serious emerging talent here!
May 14, 2016
A fun, enjoyable odyssey into the fantastic, featuring mystery, murder, intrigue, and a race across Russia to acquire a magical compass. I enjoyed this unique tale.
Displaying 1 - 11 of 11 reviews