The Keeper of the Veil: Book One of the Veil Saga

by Jack Calder

What if the world you know is protected only by a thin veil separating us from creatures born of myth?

James Crable has lived through centuries of war, betrayal, and faith twisted into fear. An immortal who has spent nearly a thousand years facing the things that slip through the boundary between worlds, he’s watched empires rise and fall and survived horrors most humans never knew existed. But when the Veil begins to unravel in a quiet Ohio town, the dangers that emerge are unlike anything he’s ever seen. And to stop them, Crable must face a past he thought he’d left behind.

The Keeper of the Veil blends urban fantasy with the sweep of historical epic, shifting from storm-soaked medieval battlefields to modern-day supernatural warfare. It’s a story of loyalty tested across lifetimes, a legacy broken and fought for again, and the impossible line between protecting humanity and losing what’s left of your own. With sharp humor, vivid characters marked by centuries of scars, and a world where the past never stays buried, Jack Calder’s debut introduces a warrior who’s lived too long to believe in easy answers.

Calder writes with the grit of historical fiction and the imagination of urban fantasy, grounding supernatural conflict in real places and real consequences. If you’ve burned through Jim Butcher’s Dresden Files or devoured Kevin Hearne’s Iron Druid Chronicles, The Keeper of the Veil offers the next step, an immortal protagonist whose wounds run deeper than his enemies, action that leaves marks, and a world where magic doesn’t fix problems, it creates new ones.

The Veil is lifting. What comes through will change everything.

Genres: Urban Fantasy, Fantasy

263 pages, Paperback

Published January 13, 2026

About the author

Jack Calder grew up in Ohio, where he developed a Midwestern work ethic, an appreciation for quiet neighborhoods, and the ability to survive winters that felt character-building in the worst way. From there he took a hard left turn into the wider world, eventually landing in London, an experience that taught him to walk quickly, speak dryly, and accept that a “queue” can form anywhere, including places no line should reasonably exist.

Today, he lives just outside Washington, D.C., a region known for history, humidity, and traffic patterns so chaotic they should be studied as a form of dark magic. He shares this adventure with his brilliant and endlessly supportive wife, and with his three kids, now in college.

Professionally, Jack is an aerospace and defense consultant with more than 25 years navigating global strategy, technology programs, and meetings that could have absolutely been emails. His career has taken him across Europe, the Middle East, and Asia, wandering through airbases, innovation labs, and cities so old they make your soul feel young. He has lived overseas, traveled widely, and developed a deep and unwavering belief that the cultural heart of any place can be found through its food and wine. Preferably in generous quantities.

Jack’s love of history, mythology, and travel eventually collided with an inconvenient amount of imagination, leading him to writing. His novels blend centuries-spanning history with modern urban fantasy, weaving together immortal warriors, ancient brotherhoods, fragile Veil-magic, and the everyday reality of suburban Ohio. He writes stories filled with atmosphere, humor, emotional depth, and characters who are just trying to make good choices in a universe that rarely cooperates.

When he isn’t shaping new chapters, Jack can often be found reading, exploring local restaurants, overanalyzing the wine list, or pretending his frequent-flyer miles are “research related.” On rare occasions he also attempts yard work, but only when absolutely necessary and usually with poor results.

Jack is always delighted to connect with readers, fellow writers, and anyone who enjoys a good story told with heart, history, and a touch of mischief.

Reviews

[Tiff · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was pleasantly surprised by how good this was. I loved the flash backs. I’m a history buff. Which is what pulled me to this book. I absolutely loved it from start to finish. The ending was amazing. The main character James was easy to love. I can’t wait till book two.

[Stefanie Verhelst · Rating 5 out of 5]

This first installment is absolutely breath taking!

Our male protagonist James is an immortal. The writer takes us through time and gives us a view of James history, he has lived many lives.

While in present time, the danger is lurking. A veil that has been there for over centuries is slowly vanishing and dangerous magical creatures will form a threat.

Jack Calder wrote a fantasy story, with detailed character building, exiting twists and turns and a companions coming together for a main purpose.

During the story there is one big question: “Who can be trusted? “

The plot will prepare you for the next chapter in this series. Can ‘t wait! 🤩

A fantastic urban fantasy and I highly recommend it.

[Lauryn Rohl · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5

This was incredible

The back and forth flashbacks, the history, the suspense, thriller you could say as well

James is Immortal who has lived many lives. Folklore tales intertwines elements of Roman Catholicism , and it's just written like a piece of fabric, if you were to touch it it would turn to dust.
The details, you could see the pictures in your mind as your reading the words.

So many twists, get small calm breaks and then .... Bam!!!!
This book is an Experience.

James and his friends are Who you want for a lifetime, everyone has a perspective that is Sarcastic, calm, arrogant, direct, chill.

Quotes I enjoyed

Arnaut,
"No trap lay in the words, only quiet interest."

James,
"For someone like me, ordinary is rare, Precious, and always temporary."

"In a city where a smile could hide a knife, being entertaining was safer than being important."

Empires fall, kings lose their heads, continents trade flags, but there has always been something to drink the in morning. "

"because American lager tastes like someone apology."

[Armando Ramirez · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Keeper of the Veil by Jack Calder is an absolute gem of a book and an essential read for any fantasy lover. Calder masterfully intertwines elements of Roman Catholicism, Indigenous folklore, and a truly imaginative magic system to create a world that feels both ancient and wondrously new. The depth of symbolism and spiritual resonance adds layers of meaning that linger long after the final page.The story builds beautifully toward an epic final battle that left me completely breathless. Every twist felt earned, every triumph deeply satisfying. And then came the epilogu: elegant, emotional, and profoundly moving. It tied everything together with a grace that few fantasy novels achieve.This book isn’t just a story, it’s an experience. Hypnotic, heartfelt, and transcendent, The Keeper of the Veil deserves every bit of its five-star rating.

[Jentasy · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Keeper of the Veil was the perfect quick read for me.

In the book we follow the story from our MMC's view. James Crable is immortal and helps to keep the monsters on the other side of the Veil.
With time skips into the past we learn to see the human history through his eyes and slowly understand the hardships immortality brings.
We watch him slowly trust his friends and accept their help through their modern day skills. And all that while facing a threat from the past.

The combination of magic and humor plus the dynamic between James and his friends kept me glued to the lines. His friends are well written, especially with their unique knowledge, and I loved every single one of them.
Since English is not my native language I would also like to mention that it was easy to understand. I didn't have to translate as much as in other works.

What I loved most were the comparisons of modern day society with the past. That humanity is still the same after all of those years but some focuses have shifted; that conflicts stayed the same just the reasons have changed. 》Men once reached for knives over dice and spilled ale. Now, wars begin over empty chairs and power outlets.《

I would definitely recommend it if you're into urban fantasy and historical fiction.

I really enjoyed reading through it and can't wait for the next book. I'm excited how the story will go on.

[Jill · Rating 4 out of 5]

I received a free advanced copy of this book in exchange for my honest and unbiased opinion, and honestly, I’m already ready for the sequel.

This story hooked me right from page one and stayed sharp, and engaging the whole way through. The alternating viewpoints between the present and the past were well done — and a great bridge build understanding of our MMC.

MMC in particular was a highlight for me. The author balances his grittier history with sly humor and unexpected refinement (his love for fine wines totally charmed me).

Plus, the Druid inclusion added an extra layer of mythic intrigue. Overall, this was a fast, fun read with a premise that pays off. Big fan — can’t wait to see where the sequel takes us because I want more!

[Shawn Burt · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was really surprised on how much I enjoyed this book. The MMC is an immortal that has lived many lives. This book has so many exciting twists and turns and excellent character development. Can not wait for the next book.

[Nancy Fagan · Rating 3 out of 5]

An interesting storyline with likable characters. It's worth reading.

I received an advance copy of the book for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Karen Wheat · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book is far from my normal romance style but I struggled with it. The writing was really well but the historical theme was just hard for ne to get into but once they got to the fighting the demons I enjoyed that section. It wasn't the books fault I just struggled to relate to it.

[Melanie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Keeper of the veil... what can i say defenitly not one of normal choices of books i like read but for something that is not different from what i normally read, this book has a lot of uos and downs, lots of history between the main character and his past love the way it all ties together. Shows great feeling and almost feels like you are right there with them while reading.

[Rebecca Doyle · Rating 5 out of 5]

this was such a great book it kept me on my toes to where I couldn't put it down. I was hooked from the very first page

[Kait Malik · Rating 5 out of 5]

Easily my new book obsession. This book is for those who love fantasy like Raymond E. Feist and Paolini. If the next book doesnt come out soon, I'll perish.

[nicjas]

I really enjoyed this book. While it took me a bit to get into the story I was really hooked by the mix of history with the fantasy. Looking forward to the next installment.

[Alan A. · Rating 5 out of 5]

Absolutely captivating, I could not put it down, I can't wait for the sequel. Keeper of the Veil will leave you
wanting more. Brilliantly written, I am hooked.

[Dina Galarza Mapes · Rating 5 out of 5]

From the beginning all the way to the end, I was obsessed! One of the best reads of the year, hands down!

[Joslyn Flippin · Rating 5 out of 5]

Jack Calder's debut was an action packed page turner...I devoured this book and can't wait for the 2nd installment in this series.  A trophy for my shelf is on my wishlist.


In this book we follow James Crable, an immortal warrior tasked with defending the border between world's from the monsters who slip through.  Over the past thousand years he has seen the rise and fall of countless empires and has survived horrors that most humans never knew existed.  When the veil begins to falter in a quiet Ohio town, James faces dangers unlike anything he has experienced and must face a past he thought he left behind.


"Discipline," he said, "isn't about obedience. It's about understanding why something must be done even when you hate doing it. "


The author did a nice job with world building. I felt like I was a resident of Centerville and was able to picture the places the characters frequented vividly.  Flashbacks are used in this story. Mr. Calder does a good job with the transitions and world building in these segments as to keep the reader engaged.  The flashbacks are used effectively, making valuable additions to the story and assisting in driving the plot forward. I was happy to read these parts of the story despite my initial apprehension because at times Flashbacks can feel extraneous.


Science and scripture are not enemies. They reflect the same light from opposite mirrors.


I enjoyed the historical elements woven into the story. The author seemlessly integrated the presence of The Veil into real historical events. Insinuating that the veil was the driving force behind these events.  I also appreciated the involvement of the Catholic church...I cannot say much without spoilers but...the role of the church was appropriate for the time period.


Over time, you learn that guilt left to rot turns poisonous. Guilt channeled into action becomes something softer.


The characters were fun and loveable. They were well developed for a first book in the trilogy and I look forward to learning more about some of the supporting characters in future  books in the series.  The creatures who serve as guardians of The Veil in various places around the world are rooted in local legends.  They fit with the mythology of their geographical location in the real world. This was a nice touch given this is an Urban Fantasy. 


Lastly, as a math and science nerd myself, the use of mathematics in the magic system was a nice touch.


I think this is a fantastic debut and I can't wait to continue this series.


All the opinions above are my own. I received this book as an ARC in exchange for an honest review.

[Matthew Burton · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Keeper of the Veil is the kind of fantasy that reminds you why the genre exists. From the first page, Jack Calder delivers a masterful blend of urban fantasy and historical fiction, woven together so seamlessly that neither timeline ever feels secondary.

At its heart is James Crable, an immortal guardian tasked with protecting a magical boundary between worlds. Watching James live across centuries, experiencing the events that shaped, broke, and reforged him, is profoundly powerful. His joy, fear, grief, and relentless sense of duty are rendered with emotional precision, making him an unforgettable protagonist.

One of Calder’s most devastating narrative choices is forcing James to face his former protégé, best friend, and brother, someone he mourned for centuries. Standing against a loved one is painful enough; standing against someone you believed lost to time is utterly crushing. The weight of that loss and James’s unshakable conviction to do what is right is deeply moving.

The modern timeline delivers top-tier urban fantasy vibes reminiscent of Jim Butcher or Kevin Hearne, complete with brilliant combat, wildly imaginative magic, enchanted weapons, and beautifully chaotic spells. The found-family dynamic that forms around James is heartfelt and rewarding, offering warmth against the high stakes and constant danger.

This book has everything great fantasy should: high stakes, rich worldbuilding, emotional depth, powerful magic, and a protagonist worth following anywhere. Once I started, I couldn’t put it down.
In one word: EPIC. Jack Calder is absolutely an author to watch.

[Jodie · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Veil Saga opens with a strong first installment, and I tore through it in a day. The story moves between past and present, following James Crable (our MMC) from his early beginnings to the modern era as he works to protect the Veil—now weakening—from the creatures of other worlds. As the cracks spread, James has to reckon with the reality that he can’t hold the line alone.
Friendships are tested and new alliances form, and I enjoyed how the supporting cast brought personality and momentum to the plot. I did predict several outcomes ahead of time, but there were still a few turns I didn’t see coming, which kept me engaged chapter to chapter. The pacing is brisk, and the quirkiness of the side characters adds welcome texture.
The ending isn’t a cliff hanger, but it clearly sets up the next book, and I’m keen to see how the saga deepens from here. There is some violence and darker content, so readers should be mindful of personal triggers. I’d recommend this to anyone starting out in fantasy or looking for a quick, accessible read with an intriguing premise.
this is how I would sum it up in a sentence: Be careful who you trust! Is your enemy your friend or is your friend your enemy or are they both!
Overall, a solid start: 4/5.
I received a free copy of this book and I am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Susan Murphy · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this urban fantasy novel and was drawn in from the very beginning. The story features guardians, immortals, and a richly built magical world that feels both unique and immersive.

The writing is strong and engaging, with the narrative split between past and present timelines. Normally, I’m not a fan of historical flashbacks, but in this case, they were done exceptionally well. Each glimpse into the past added depth to the characters and the overall story without slowing the pace, making them just as enjoyable as the present-day events.

Jack, our MMC, is an immortal guardian and past warrior. As a Guardian, it’s his responsibility to ensure the veil between worlds remains intact. When something becomes determined to tear it down, Jack must rely on the friends he’s gathered over the years and draw on his powerful magic to stop the breach. The stakes are high, and the tension builds as he fights to keep dangerous creatures from crossing into a world where they don’t belong.

This was a well-written, captivating urban fantasy that blends action, history, and magic seamlessly. A great read for fans of guardians, immortals, and stories where the past and present collide in meaningful ways.

[Mandy Britt · Rating 4 out of 5]

A Standout Start to The Veil Saga

Keeper of the Veil is an impressive first installment that successfully balances historical depth with modern-day urban fantasy. The story features a masterfully handled dual-timeline structure, following James Crable’s journey from his early origins to the modern era. These historical sequences are particularly well-executed, offering a poetic atmosphere that adds significant weight to the contemporary stakes without sacrificing the story's momentum.
​While the narrative moves at a brisk pace, the author takes the time to develop a quirky supporting cast that adds welcome texture to the plot. James himself is a well-realized protagonist whose long life feels authentic and grounded. Though the story explores some darker themes, the ending provides a satisfying conclusion while perfectly setting the stage for the next book. This is a sophisticated, accessible, and highly recommended read for anyone seeking an intriguing new fantasy premise.
​Content Note
​Reader Caution: This novel contains elements of violence and darker thematic content. Readers who are sensitive to specific triggers should approach those sections with mindfulness.

[Pam Grigsby · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a really fun read. It was relatively fast paced and action-packed. There were little references throughout that made me smile, but I won’t spoil them. I really liked the switching back and forth between timelines. It was well-organized and easy to follow. The characters that you’re not supposed to hate are very likable. The main character, James, seems to be a very honorable man who values his own integrity which is refreshing since most things that I read have characters who couldn’t fit into that box. I LOVE wendigos so finding out that they had a place in this book made my heart happy. It was nice to see that they weren’t used as they typically are, as in they were not seemingly being appropriated or represented as a symbol for greed, gluttony, etc. Their involvement in this book felt more human and gave them more of a softness that I really appreciated. I really hope that book 2 dives deeper into the creatures themselves now that book 1 set up all of the groundwork for it. As a first book in a series, it did exactly what it needed to do and I’m excited for whatever comes next!

[merlin513]

I liked the blurb I read on Booksirens and requested an ARC copy, and BOY am I glad I did!!!

This book is unlike any other I’ve read. There’s whiffs of other fantasies lingering in its presence. Little bit of ‘Highlander’, little bit of ‘Van Helsing’ , whole lot of ‘The Silicon Mage’ series by Barbara Hambly and Dan Brown’s ‘The Da Vinci Code’ . Mixed well with a lot of various religions, mythology and the understanding of the importance of good food, good wine and good friends.

I loved the balance between the stories of James Crables LONG past and the tension of what’s happening in present day Centerville, Ohio. The circle of friends he’s collected and what they all come to mean to each other.

Outstanding debut fantasy! This is gonna be a series I buy physical copies of to keep! Looking forward with anticipation to book two! May it be quick in coming!

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Trystan D’Amico-White · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received an advance reader’s copy of The Keeper of the Veil by Jack Calder and loved it. The book explores a supernatural “warden” tasked with maintaining order of the veil between worlds. After years of relative quiet, sinister stirrings begin in his sleepy town in Ohio. The book ties in the current mystery with past events to explain our main character James’ motives and personality and set up a broader understanding of what being a warden entails.


As someone who grew up old school Catholic the intertwining of science and faith was so well explored in this book and I loved the supernatural themes. Using a series of flashbacks as exposition was a really fun way to begin this series. It created the world and character building necessary while not making the story drag on. Looking forward to seeing what else the crew gets up to!

[Tamara Kuech · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Keeper of the Veil was a really enjoyable read, especially for the way it mixes beautiful, almost poetic writing with a story that jumps between the past and the present. I loved how the historical sections didn’t feel like info dumps but actually added weight to what’s happening in modern-day Ohio. James Crable’s long life comes through in small, thoughtful moments, not just in the action, which made him feel real and worn in the best way. The writing has a nice rhythm to it, and the blend of old-world history with present-day supernatural problems kept the story feeling fresh. If you like urban fantasy that takes its time with atmosphere and doesn’t forget where its characters came from, this one’s worth picking up.

[Vickie · Rating 5 out of 5]

This story drew me in from the beginning. At first I was alarmed that I was reading a historical novel, but the switch was so mesmerizing. I loved how the flashbacks have such a different feel to them you never seem lost. Jack is our MMC, he is an immortal who know more about war and the veil then anyone in his Ohio town. As a Guardian it's his job to make sure the veil holds. Unfortunately something is determined to break the down. With help from friends acquired through the years will he be able to use enough of his magic to hold the veil and keep the creatures that don't belong to this side out?

[Di T · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was absolutely captivated by this book. It is so beautifully written, the scenes so vividly described. I fell in love with our main character in the first chapter. An immortal protecting the world from evil. I loved the flash backs from throughout his long life journey depicting history from 1066 to present day. A fair few laugh out loud moments alongside the other characters in this book. I don’t want to say too much and spoil your experience but you will not be disappointed you picked up this book. I can’t wait for book 2!

I received an ebook copy direct from the author and this is my honest review.

[Mary · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Keeper of the Veil by Jack Calder stands out as a remarkable work, a captivating read for any fan of fantasy. The main character, James Crable, is an immortal being tasked with the duty of keeping the monsters confined on the other side of the veil. Through a series of time skips into the past, readers gain insight into human history from James' perspective and gradually come to comprehend the challenges that immortality entails.

Even if fantasy isn't your typical genre, Calder's masterful writing captivates with its rich storytelling, weaving together folklore and a magical system that feels both ancient and refreshingly innovative.

[Kati · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is my favorite that I have read all year. The world-building and story telling was beautifully seamless and easy to follow. The author was able to take us back and forth through timelines without it being confusing. If you enjoy fantasy novels that include deep bonds, ancient creatures, and high stakes- I cannot recommend this work enough. Without giving too much away, the ending was amazing and tied the novel together perfectly, while keeping the door open for the next part in the series. I could not put it down and now I cannot wait until the next part of the series comes out!

[Honey · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Keeper of the Veil was an enjoyable and engaging read, though a little slow at first. The time jumps from chapter to chapter were easy to follow and added depth to the story without becoming confusing. The characters were likable and well written, and the supernatural elements were woven in nicely. A few key scenes help further define one of the main characters, adding depth without detracting from the overall tone. Overall, it’s a solid fantasy read that’s easy to follow and enjoyable from start to finish.

I received an advance copy the book for my honest review.

[Tanya · Rating 5 out of 5]

The main character is fantastic. James Crable, an immortal warrior worn down by nearly a thousand years, is compelling. The story seamlessly switches between modern-day and historical moments, creating a fast-paced read. It effectively demonstrates that magic doesn't always lead to positive outcomes. Honestly it took me chapter or two to really get into this book. However i am glad i kept reading. i am definitely going to give the rest of the sires a try.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.