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The Hidden and the Maiden
A wizard’s failed apprentice and a self-doubting medium embark on a race against time in Eben Mishkin’s fantastical debut, The Hidden and the Maiden.
The unsociable James Rathbone, once student to the last wizard, is forced into action when his dead master's secret elixir is stolen.
Con artist Kenton Dean has used the elixir to release the fallen god of death. He needs just one more thing for his plans to work: Helena Lawson, an heiress who holds unfathomable magical potential.
James sets off on a dangerous mission to rescue Helena and stop Kenton, but he cannot do it alone. Much to his chagrin, James must team up with Zephyr Wayne, a neurotic medium who’s convinced his powers are nothing more than the manifestation of his own psychosis.
As the only humans capable of seeing the threat, James and Zephyr must band together to save the world as they know it. But can James finally get his magic to work? And will Zephyr’s self-doubt ever allow him to unleash his full potential?
An absorbing blend of horror, fantasy, and real-world drama, The Hidden and the Maiden will leave readers guessing until the very last page.
The unsociable James Rathbone, once student to the last wizard, is forced into action when his dead master's secret elixir is stolen.
Con artist Kenton Dean has used the elixir to release the fallen god of death. He needs just one more thing for his plans to work: Helena Lawson, an heiress who holds unfathomable magical potential.
James sets off on a dangerous mission to rescue Helena and stop Kenton, but he cannot do it alone. Much to his chagrin, James must team up with Zephyr Wayne, a neurotic medium who’s convinced his powers are nothing more than the manifestation of his own psychosis.
As the only humans capable of seeing the threat, James and Zephyr must band together to save the world as they know it. But can James finally get his magic to work? And will Zephyr’s self-doubt ever allow him to unleash his full potential?
An absorbing blend of horror, fantasy, and real-world drama, The Hidden and the Maiden will leave readers guessing until the very last page.
374 pages, Paperback
First published January 1, 2015
5 people are currently reading
652 people want to read
About the author
Eben Mishkin
2 books15 followersEben Mishkin studied at the University of California’s College of Creative Studies and the University of Wales at Cardiff. He earned his Masters in the teaching and practice of Creative Writing but has studied subjects as diverse as the conjugation of sigils and the propitiation of Sumerian Demons.
He’s been the youngest attendee of the Santa Barbara Writer’s Conference and the oldest person to believe in S. Morgenstern. He’s studied writing under Orson Scott Card and occult under everyone’s favorite grandmother. He knows the keys and locks of three gods that must not be named but has never had tequila.
He’s married to a dragon keeper who is also a very talented artist. They live together in a McMansion in Southern California with a sweet natured hell hound and more dragons than he is comfortable cohabiting with.
The Hidden and the Maiden is Mishkin’s debut novel. You can always find out the latest information at ebenmishkin.com
He’s been the youngest attendee of the Santa Barbara Writer’s Conference and the oldest person to believe in S. Morgenstern. He’s studied writing under Orson Scott Card and occult under everyone’s favorite grandmother. He knows the keys and locks of three gods that must not be named but has never had tequila.
He’s married to a dragon keeper who is also a very talented artist. They live together in a McMansion in Southern California with a sweet natured hell hound and more dragons than he is comfortable cohabiting with.
The Hidden and the Maiden is Mishkin’s debut novel. You can always find out the latest information at ebenmishkin.com
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Displaying 1 - 17 of 17 reviews
May 4, 2016
A pleasant surprise, this. I really, really thought I was going to regret this one after I requested it on Netgalley. There have been several which I abandoned, recently. I don't like doing that; these Netgalley books are obligations. But not even for an obligation will I read a terrible book.
The setting for The Hidden and the Maiden took me off guard; for some reason I expected a typical grim fantasy setting, and instead got a grim here-and-now setting, a horrible and possibly interfered-with pit of urban decay which breeds crime and desperation. And, apparently, wizardry. A cop makes a weird discovery at a crime scene, and things go downhill from there, in the sort of way that can only happen with ghosts and gods involved. These aren't the usual sort of ghosts (or at least not the sort I tend to come across); these break the rule usually followed that they can't harm humans. Yeah, that's not the case here. At all.
One big thing that made a huge difference in this book was that it's smart. I mean, you just don't see a line like "And I’m a scold, not a skald" very often. Or learn the difference between necromancy and nigromancie, and how Tolkien was involved.
"Maybe I’ll find something. Maybe the horse will sing," James said.
"Singing horse?"
"There’s a story that Mullah Nasruddin…never mind. It isn’t important. It means that anything could happen, so you might as well try," James said.
I loved what might be called the system of magic used in this book, or at least the system of abilities of ghosts. "As for the tongues of the dead…well, there are a lot of them. It’s our term for our magic. My ability to fly, for example, we call ‘the daughter’s tongue.’ Being able to move something physical in the living world is called ‘the regretful tongue.’ I can do a bit, but I’d be considered an amateur. We call them tongues because they rely on the same kind of thinking as learning a new language. All our powers have a sort of syntax of forms and…things. … Learning to fly was like learning French and Latin in school."
Did I mention how smart the writing was? "Calendars of different systems hung on the walls—apparently it wasn’t only the tenth of this month, but the twenty-seventh of the previous month, the sixth of Lyar, the sixth of the snake, the fifth of Jumada al-Ula, the twenty-second day of Ordibehesht, Beauty’s day of Glory, and minus two days to the first quarter of a planting moon with 38 percent visible."
It was completely different from what I expected, and quite a bit different from my usual cup of tea. It was funny and gruesome, grim and kind of sweet, a little twisted and a little heartwarming. I liked the writing, and the plot, and the characters – and here's something: I even liked the talking cat. THAT isn't an easy accomplishment. I'm really looking forward to more.
The setting for The Hidden and the Maiden took me off guard; for some reason I expected a typical grim fantasy setting, and instead got a grim here-and-now setting, a horrible and possibly interfered-with pit of urban decay which breeds crime and desperation. And, apparently, wizardry. A cop makes a weird discovery at a crime scene, and things go downhill from there, in the sort of way that can only happen with ghosts and gods involved. These aren't the usual sort of ghosts (or at least not the sort I tend to come across); these break the rule usually followed that they can't harm humans. Yeah, that's not the case here. At all.
One big thing that made a huge difference in this book was that it's smart. I mean, you just don't see a line like "And I’m a scold, not a skald" very often. Or learn the difference between necromancy and nigromancie, and how Tolkien was involved.
"Maybe I’ll find something. Maybe the horse will sing," James said.
"Singing horse?"
"There’s a story that Mullah Nasruddin…never mind. It isn’t important. It means that anything could happen, so you might as well try," James said.
I loved what might be called the system of magic used in this book, or at least the system of abilities of ghosts. "As for the tongues of the dead…well, there are a lot of them. It’s our term for our magic. My ability to fly, for example, we call ‘the daughter’s tongue.’ Being able to move something physical in the living world is called ‘the regretful tongue.’ I can do a bit, but I’d be considered an amateur. We call them tongues because they rely on the same kind of thinking as learning a new language. All our powers have a sort of syntax of forms and…things. … Learning to fly was like learning French and Latin in school."
Did I mention how smart the writing was? "Calendars of different systems hung on the walls—apparently it wasn’t only the tenth of this month, but the twenty-seventh of the previous month, the sixth of Lyar, the sixth of the snake, the fifth of Jumada al-Ula, the twenty-second day of Ordibehesht, Beauty’s day of Glory, and minus two days to the first quarter of a planting moon with 38 percent visible."
It was completely different from what I expected, and quite a bit different from my usual cup of tea. It was funny and gruesome, grim and kind of sweet, a little twisted and a little heartwarming. I liked the writing, and the plot, and the characters – and here's something: I even liked the talking cat. THAT isn't an easy accomplishment. I'm really looking forward to more.
Want to read
June 9, 2015In The Hidden and the Maiden, Mr. Mishkin brings the genuine transformative joy possible in books about other worlds and magic, the metaphorical kick one can bring to the reader. The book is a chimera of the beautiful and the repulsive. While part of my mind was entangled in the lush, complex writing, part of me wanted the story to end quickly which is not a bad thing at all because I was anxious about the ending.I can honestly say that I loved every minute of this book. I would say that this was an extremely original and unique twist on the notion of what it would be like to actually live in a world where magic and fantasy realms exist while leading regular lives,a spectacular little romp with funny, courageous, and endearing characters that you can't help but love. James and Zephyr are your quintessential heroes who are kind to those that deserve it, fearless when it counts the most, and wonderfully intelligent and hillarious while fighting their own demons and personal battles and oh, they have to use magic, rescue the people in distress, fight evil and save the world. I loved this wonderful duo! I even liked the bad guy Kenton Dean. There are sorcerers, ghosts, demons,God of death and even a talking cat! What's great is that you can expect it to be full of sunshine, rainbows and unicorns as well as elements of mystery, thriller and graphic horror.
The only thing I didn't like was the book was a bit too slow in the beginning and took some time for me to be absorbed after which it was unputdownable. I wish to read more of Mr. Mishkin's writing in the future.
The only thing I didn't like was the book was a bit too slow in the beginning and took some time for me to be absorbed after which it was unputdownable. I wish to read more of Mr. Mishkin's writing in the future.
November 7, 2015
We enter the world of ghosts, wizards and magic in this book. It is a well plotted and structured story that captured my interest right up to the end. It begins with a beautiful description of urban decay where a policeman makes a weird discovery that kickstarts a fabulous adventure where different worlds collide.
James and Zephyr set off to save the world encountering a mass assortment of challenges and obstacles. There are great characters, humour and wit in the novel. It is a cracking and entertaining story, which I urge others to read. I received a ebook copy from the publisher via netgalley for an honest review.
James and Zephyr set off to save the world encountering a mass assortment of challenges and obstacles. There are great characters, humour and wit in the novel. It is a cracking and entertaining story, which I urge others to read. I received a ebook copy from the publisher via netgalley for an honest review.
July 8, 2015
https://koeur.wordpress.com/2015/07/0...
Publisher: CreateSpace
Publishing Date: March 2015
ISBN: 9781506119601
Genre: Fantasy
Rating: 4.0/5
Publisher Description: A wizard’s failed apprentice and a self-doubting medium embark on a race against time in Eben Mishkin’s fantastical debut, The Hidden and the Maiden.
Review: A kind of convoluted and bizarre take on the afterlife and the Gods and Ghosts that inhabit alternate realms.
The God of Death, Kherty-Aken (sp) is summoned by a human that stumbles upon an old wizards cache of herbal goop, which he quickly ingests. Now that he has power over Death he gets busy controlling ghosts and making a tidy prophet as a medium of sorts. Meanwhile, Zephyr’s plight as a schizophrenic and James’ derailed attempts at wizardry are told in parallel. They somehow stumble into believing that ghosts are real and the threat to humanity, all-pervasive. If you can get past that crumbling premise, then the novel works in a way that confounds.
The story-line remains consistent even when the scenes reach fantastical heights. The characters are well developed with the Ghosts stealing the show. Especially JJ. She has this divine sense of the acerbic and the rhetoric is constant.
Mishkin is a talented writer that will only get better. Here’s to hoping that he does (get better) and continues to do so (write).
Publisher: CreateSpace
Publishing Date: March 2015
ISBN: 9781506119601
Genre: Fantasy
Rating: 4.0/5
Publisher Description: A wizard’s failed apprentice and a self-doubting medium embark on a race against time in Eben Mishkin’s fantastical debut, The Hidden and the Maiden.
Review: A kind of convoluted and bizarre take on the afterlife and the Gods and Ghosts that inhabit alternate realms.
The God of Death, Kherty-Aken (sp) is summoned by a human that stumbles upon an old wizards cache of herbal goop, which he quickly ingests. Now that he has power over Death he gets busy controlling ghosts and making a tidy prophet as a medium of sorts. Meanwhile, Zephyr’s plight as a schizophrenic and James’ derailed attempts at wizardry are told in parallel. They somehow stumble into believing that ghosts are real and the threat to humanity, all-pervasive. If you can get past that crumbling premise, then the novel works in a way that confounds.
The story-line remains consistent even when the scenes reach fantastical heights. The characters are well developed with the Ghosts stealing the show. Especially JJ. She has this divine sense of the acerbic and the rhetoric is constant.
Mishkin is a talented writer that will only get better. Here’s to hoping that he does (get better) and continues to do so (write).
February 22, 2016
I enjoyed the Hidden and the Maiden by Eben Mishkin. Giving it 4 stars it went beyond my expectations of wizards, ghosts and magic. James must learn to make his magic work to battle against Kenton Dean and the god of death. James teams up with Zephyr which is a medium to stop Kenton and try taking control of the god of death . I liked James's talking cat Tango, he made things more interesting throughout the story. The story will keep you intrigued and is a page turner. I recommend this story to readers who like paranormal, fantasy and mystery. I won this First Read book for free in the Goodreads Giveaway.
May 19, 2018
This story of magical mystery and fantasy has a slow start but rapidly gathers pace. It might at times go a bit far but ends up being an entertaining read.
September 14, 2015
After having received a copy from The Hidden and the Maiden via the Goodreads Giveaways, I decided to give this book a try. I must say that it had some tough competition, as I just finished rereading the Harry Potter series from beginning to end - and let's be honest, you have to have some pretty good writing skills up your sleeve to out-shadow Queen Rowling.
I gave this novel a relative low rating, for a couple of pointers. Obviously, fantasy is a genre I'm accustomed to (after a month of Potter, I'm seriously doubting if Voldemort made my Hogwarts letter disappear - being Muggle-born and all). Yet, it is a genre of writing where you are creating a world for the reader that it is not (yet) accustomed to. Therefore; ease the reader in to it, make sure I buy everything you're telling me (even if they're flying cars that are not approved by the Ministry of Magic - okay, enough with the Harry Potter).
Also is the style of writing not entirely something I got in to, while this may be more of a personal thing. Often, the structure of sentences where very monotone; and in dialogues, the names of the characters where mostly re-used. This is tough for a writer, to make sure the reader knows who is speaking without too much repetition, but then again that is the beauty of the game. Another personal viewpoint here, is that I'm not that much into vulgar language carelessly being used in prose or poetry. I'm not against it, it can surely depict a scene or a character, but certain words must be earned to use; they are a bombshell, and are to be handled with care and in proper time. Seeing Alan Ginsberg's poetry, for example, the f-word, placed exactly right, can enunciate the overall feeling of the poem. But, then again, that is a personal opinion; the next reader might have no problem with this at all.
I must say I thought it was enlightening to read a more dystopian view on magic - it feels as if it's a given, "no big deal", the protagonist is a guy that gets drunk and isn't too likeable (which is something we can relate to, despite the fact that he is taught by the great wizard). It makes him real.
I gave this novel a relative low rating, for a couple of pointers. Obviously, fantasy is a genre I'm accustomed to (after a month of Potter, I'm seriously doubting if Voldemort made my Hogwarts letter disappear - being Muggle-born and all). Yet, it is a genre of writing where you are creating a world for the reader that it is not (yet) accustomed to. Therefore; ease the reader in to it, make sure I buy everything you're telling me (even if they're flying cars that are not approved by the Ministry of Magic - okay, enough with the Harry Potter).
Also is the style of writing not entirely something I got in to, while this may be more of a personal thing. Often, the structure of sentences where very monotone; and in dialogues, the names of the characters where mostly re-used. This is tough for a writer, to make sure the reader knows who is speaking without too much repetition, but then again that is the beauty of the game. Another personal viewpoint here, is that I'm not that much into vulgar language carelessly being used in prose or poetry. I'm not against it, it can surely depict a scene or a character, but certain words must be earned to use; they are a bombshell, and are to be handled with care and in proper time. Seeing Alan Ginsberg's poetry, for example, the f-word, placed exactly right, can enunciate the overall feeling of the poem. But, then again, that is a personal opinion; the next reader might have no problem with this at all.
I must say I thought it was enlightening to read a more dystopian view on magic - it feels as if it's a given, "no big deal", the protagonist is a guy that gets drunk and isn't too likeable (which is something we can relate to, despite the fact that he is taught by the great wizard). It makes him real.
January 22, 2017
I was provided with a complimentary copy of this book, through Reading Deals, so I could give an honest review. For me that is not a difficult thing to do.
I was surprised to find after reading this book that this was the author's first book. I found the premise for the story very intriguing. The place of the story is definitely urban but certainly not in this world or one that I know of. He set the rules for this world and stayed within them. The arc of the story was one that built and grew so well that at least for me I felt very much a part of it.
Our two main characters were very complicated. One a scholar the other a medium that was never told it was real and believed he was crazy. Both put together for a job that was bigger than anyone expected especially themselves. With each success there were two steps back which more learning was required. Talk about "on the job training."
I don't wish to give any part of the story away I only wish to perhaps waken your taste buds or tickle your brain into wanting to read this book. I found it to be one I could truly sink my teeth into. And find that these are getting harder to find.
The characters become so full of life as you get to know them. They don't just react to what is happening around them but their morals are developed as well. They feel real is the best way I can describe it.
All of these things make up a great book and this certainly has it in spades. I hope you enjoy it as much as I have.
I was surprised to find after reading this book that this was the author's first book. I found the premise for the story very intriguing. The place of the story is definitely urban but certainly not in this world or one that I know of. He set the rules for this world and stayed within them. The arc of the story was one that built and grew so well that at least for me I felt very much a part of it.
Our two main characters were very complicated. One a scholar the other a medium that was never told it was real and believed he was crazy. Both put together for a job that was bigger than anyone expected especially themselves. With each success there were two steps back which more learning was required. Talk about "on the job training."
I don't wish to give any part of the story away I only wish to perhaps waken your taste buds or tickle your brain into wanting to read this book. I found it to be one I could truly sink my teeth into. And find that these are getting harder to find.
The characters become so full of life as you get to know them. They don't just react to what is happening around them but their morals are developed as well. They feel real is the best way I can describe it.
All of these things make up a great book and this certainly has it in spades. I hope you enjoy it as much as I have.
September 15, 2015
Whilst the first few chapters set the scene for this story, once you get through them you’ll find a highly original story, well written with complex, well developed characters and decidedly different scenarios and events. There is a complete blend of genres mixed in appropriate proportions to create an enthralling, delectable and unforgettable tale. It will appeal to lovers of thrillers, fantasy, magical, mystery and intrigue. Read it to enter a world where magic exists and is accepted but lies hidden, just below the surface waiting to be used and exposed.
The heroes aren’t typical heroes, they’re just every day folk forced to show their bravery, gallantry and overcome their fears to help others. James Rathbone was the student of the murdered last wizard, now he’s determined to recover his master’s secret elixir. He is helped by Zephyr Wayne, a neurotic medium who doesn’t believe his gifts are real. Together they seek to rescue the elixir and Helena Lawson to stop Kenton Dean in his tracks! Humour also appears to alleviate the suspense and engage the reader as they use their intelligence, wit and resilience to overcome threats much greater than they’d ever imagined! An intriguing and entertaining read to the very end.
Thanks to the author, publisher and NetGalley, too, for letting me read an ARC of this book in exchange for this, an honest review.
The heroes aren’t typical heroes, they’re just every day folk forced to show their bravery, gallantry and overcome their fears to help others. James Rathbone was the student of the murdered last wizard, now he’s determined to recover his master’s secret elixir. He is helped by Zephyr Wayne, a neurotic medium who doesn’t believe his gifts are real. Together they seek to rescue the elixir and Helena Lawson to stop Kenton Dean in his tracks! Humour also appears to alleviate the suspense and engage the reader as they use their intelligence, wit and resilience to overcome threats much greater than they’d ever imagined! An intriguing and entertaining read to the very end.
Thanks to the author, publisher and NetGalley, too, for letting me read an ARC of this book in exchange for this, an honest review.
March 10, 2015
Ahhhh! I love this book so much! James and Zephyr are the everyman protagonists gritty urban fantasy writers wish they could pull off and never quite manage. Ever wonder why Sam and Dean Winchester don't fill hula hoops full of salt and hula their way past demons and ghosts? James and Zephyr would come up with an idea like that in five minutes and be done before Sam and Dean had time to pull out the shotguns. (Un)fortunately, ghosts are the least of James and Zephyr's problems. They have to combat an actual God of Death, easily top of the list of "people you don't want to even notice you, let alone make mad." Armed with pretty much only their wits and determination, and with a little help from JJ, Zephyr's charmingly vulgar ghost mother, James and Zephyr face down a threat that is hinted to be bigger than even they realize. You'll be up well into the night waiting to find out if and how they manage to deal with it. I'm dying to read more!
September 2, 2015
Author Eben Mishkin has carefully woven a universe where magic is accepted yet lies just below the surface. The characters come across as the everyday Joe, not would-be heroes or even underdogs thrust into greatness. That subtlety is what grabbed hold of me as a reader and pulled me in. I became invested in them not because of the story but because of their flaws and weaknesses.
The story revolves around Zephyr and James as they attempt to rescue heiress Helena Lawson and stop Kenton Dean. James, a former sorcerer's apprentice must not only fight through a magical world of horror and fantasy but against his only failings as a magician. James teams up with Zephyr, an unlikely partner full of self-doubt as a psychic medium. There is fantasy, horror, comedy and urgency as the two navigate a world just beyond our grasp.
Can't wait to read more from this author.
A copy of this book was supplied by the author in exchange for a fair and unbiased review.
The story revolves around Zephyr and James as they attempt to rescue heiress Helena Lawson and stop Kenton Dean. James, a former sorcerer's apprentice must not only fight through a magical world of horror and fantasy but against his only failings as a magician. James teams up with Zephyr, an unlikely partner full of self-doubt as a psychic medium. There is fantasy, horror, comedy and urgency as the two navigate a world just beyond our grasp.
Can't wait to read more from this author.
A copy of this book was supplied by the author in exchange for a fair and unbiased review.
July 10, 2015
The initial chapters of this first book by author Eben Mishkin were a bit of a struggle as I tried to get my bearings in the story and with the different characters introduced. As more of the world and the plot were revealed, I found myself deeply engaged in the rich mythology, complex characters and tension-inducing pace. I noticed a few other reviewers had the same experience so readers should definitely persevere. The world and the back-story are so deep that I’m hoping that this is the first of a series set here, as I’d definitely come back! The writing felt fresh, the story was unique and the characters were intriguing and novel. Thumbs up!!
January 30, 2019
A fun, fast-paced read with detailed worldbuilding
Overall, I really enjoyed this book. The characters were well written, especially the villain, who had clear and believable motivations beyond "evil because evil."
The reason I've given it four Stars instead of five is that there are some elements that are set up and left unresolved: JJ's abuse and James's homophobia mostly. I hope that unresolved character threads means there will be a sequel, because I did feel genuinely invested in these characters and would enjoy seeing them work through these issues.
Overall, I really enjoyed this book. The characters were well written, especially the villain, who had clear and believable motivations beyond "evil because evil."
The reason I've given it four Stars instead of five is that there are some elements that are set up and left unresolved: JJ's abuse and James's homophobia mostly. I hope that unresolved character threads means there will be a sequel, because I did feel genuinely invested in these characters and would enjoy seeing them work through these issues.
May 21, 2015
I was very fortunate to receive this book as a giveaway from Goodreads as it was a very original storyline , interesting characters and was well written. Two worlds living side by side but largely unknown to each other.A new twist on life and death.Two flawed people and a ghost eventually overcome their fears and antagonisms and try to save mankind.
August 13, 2015
Good effort for a first novel. I enjoyed the ghost story, but got lost in the details. Just because you have a lot of thoughts doesn't mean you should put them all in one book. I couldn't decide if the characters were trying to save all of heaven for mankind or just the poor lady trapped by the bad guy. A better rating would probably be 3.5 stars.
Currently reading
July 26, 2015Just started but WOW!, already I'm pulled in. No time wasted. Promises to be masterful! Just the book I've Ben searching for!!!
October 6, 2015
Review to follow
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