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The Golden City
The Seer's Choice
Genoveva Jardim's father was a monster—a defrocked priest who used his healer's gift to murder instead. Determined to make amends for the deaths her father brought to the Golden City, she turned her back on her life among the aristocracy. She's chosen to work for the Special Police, learning how to use the healer's gift she'd never even known she had. She wants to save lives instead of killing like her father.
Rafael Pinheiro has kept an eye on Miss Jardim for some time now. The very first time he met her, his seer's gift told him he would someday marry her. What he can't figure out is why he would choose her. She's young and an aristocrat—hardly a match for a mere police captain raised in an orphanage. They don't seem to have anything in common.
But when Miss Jardim's life is threatened, everything changes…
Rafael Pinheiro has kept an eye on Miss Jardim for some time now. The very first time he met her, his seer's gift told him he would someday marry her. What he can't figure out is why he would choose her. She's young and an aristocrat—hardly a match for a mere police captain raised in an orphanage. They don't seem to have anything in common.
But when Miss Jardim's life is threatened, everything changes…
186 pages, Paperback
First published September 30, 2015
About the author
J. Kathleen Cheney
47 books250 followersJ. Kathleen Cheney is nothing if not versatile in her story telling. But, weaving through her work is a common thread, that of the improbable heroine. From worlds set in humanity’s distant post-apocalyptic future to alternate worlds of today or of the near past, Kathleen’s heroines include a siren who with help from a gentleman of the city must stop a regicidal plot, the neglected daughter of an absent king coming to terms with her shapeshifting ancestors, a blind teenager who dreams of others’ deaths and who uses her gift of touch to find their killers, and the widow of a trainer who with a most unusual horse must save her farm and way of life. All use their unusual gifts and talents to overcome obstacles and find their place in the world.
In 2005 Kathleen decided to pursue writing as a full-time endeavor and has since enjoyed seeing her stories published in Shimmer, The Sword Review, and Baen’s Universe. Her novella “Iron Shoes” was a 2011 Nebula nominee. Kathleen twice attended the summer Writer’s Workshop at the Center for the Study of Science Fiction under the tutelage of James Gunn. She lists C. J. Cherryh, Arthur Conan Doyle, and Georgette Heyer among the writers who influenced her most–as well as Ansen Dibell, whose ghostly fingerprints can be seen all over her work.
Born and raised in El Paso, Texas, Kathleen’s parents actually were rocket scientists (they worked at White Sands Missile Range), which made for interesting dinner-time conversations. After graduating with degrees in English and Marketing she worked as a menswear buyer for retail department store chains before changing careers to become a teacher, where she taught mathematics ranging from 7th Grade Arithmetic up to Calculus. Kathleen also served a brief stint as a Gifted and Talented Specialist. She coached the Academic Team and the Robotics Team and was the Chess Club sponsor.
When not writing, Kathleen likes to don a mask and get sweaty fencing, both foil and saber. Quieter hobbies include putting on her Wellingtons and getting her hands dirty in the garden. She also enjoys traveling and taking care of her dogs. Two large, hairy, dogs.
Her first novel, "The Golden City" came out from Ace Books, November 2013.
In 2005 Kathleen decided to pursue writing as a full-time endeavor and has since enjoyed seeing her stories published in Shimmer, The Sword Review, and Baen’s Universe. Her novella “Iron Shoes” was a 2011 Nebula nominee. Kathleen twice attended the summer Writer’s Workshop at the Center for the Study of Science Fiction under the tutelage of James Gunn. She lists C. J. Cherryh, Arthur Conan Doyle, and Georgette Heyer among the writers who influenced her most–as well as Ansen Dibell, whose ghostly fingerprints can be seen all over her work.
Born and raised in El Paso, Texas, Kathleen’s parents actually were rocket scientists (they worked at White Sands Missile Range), which made for interesting dinner-time conversations. After graduating with degrees in English and Marketing she worked as a menswear buyer for retail department store chains before changing careers to become a teacher, where she taught mathematics ranging from 7th Grade Arithmetic up to Calculus. Kathleen also served a brief stint as a Gifted and Talented Specialist. She coached the Academic Team and the Robotics Team and was the Chess Club sponsor.
When not writing, Kathleen likes to don a mask and get sweaty fencing, both foil and saber. Quieter hobbies include putting on her Wellingtons and getting her hands dirty in the garden. She also enjoys traveling and taking care of her dogs. Two large, hairy, dogs.
Her first novel, "The Golden City" came out from Ace Books, November 2013.
Ratings & Reviews
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Displaying 1 - 19 of 19 reviews
December 30, 2015
I love the Golden City series, and this novella is the perfect addition to the fantasy trilogy set in 1903 Portugal. It really feels like a condensed version of the full novels with mystery, danger, and a romance with delightful chemistry.
August 14, 2016
Mon avis en Français
My English review
I enjoyed the first three volumes and learning that the author had written two more novellas after the end of the story, I admit that I was curious to discover them. I wondered if these short stories would take place during or after the story and it was nice to discover what happened to the other secondary characters a bit more, because yes, we follow here Rafael and Genova, two protagonists previously discovered. Moreover, even if we have the mention of Duilio and Joaquim, the story really focuses on these two!
So as I said here we follow Genova and Rafael. Both work in the special police but they did not expect to have a case concerning the young woman that would unite them. Indeed, it would seem that a man is harassing Miss Jardim and even if she wanted to handle the problems alone, she realizes very quickly that this is not possible. And that’s where something is starting to appear between her and our dear captain.
I will not say more not to spoil the reading (which you can imagine is pretty fast) but I had a good time with it. It was nice to see the universe and to know the future of some other characters. I’m just a bit disappointed about the fast relationship, and I would have liked a little more development, but it was an enjoyable read and I am curious to read the second story now!
My English review
I enjoyed the first three volumes and learning that the author had written two more novellas after the end of the story, I admit that I was curious to discover them. I wondered if these short stories would take place during or after the story and it was nice to discover what happened to the other secondary characters a bit more, because yes, we follow here Rafael and Genova, two protagonists previously discovered. Moreover, even if we have the mention of Duilio and Joaquim, the story really focuses on these two!
So as I said here we follow Genova and Rafael. Both work in the special police but they did not expect to have a case concerning the young woman that would unite them. Indeed, it would seem that a man is harassing Miss Jardim and even if she wanted to handle the problems alone, she realizes very quickly that this is not possible. And that’s where something is starting to appear between her and our dear captain.
I will not say more not to spoil the reading (which you can imagine is pretty fast) but I had a good time with it. It was nice to see the universe and to know the future of some other characters. I’m just a bit disappointed about the fast relationship, and I would have liked a little more development, but it was an enjoyable read and I am curious to read the second story now!
tbr-later
January 7, 20167 January 2016: $0.00 FREE on Kindle
January 10, 2017
When I read this novella, I was not aware that Cheney had already established the Golden City via three novels in the past three or so years. This story follows two characters that were introduced as supporting characters in The Golden City. While it was not necessary to read the novels before reading The Seer's Choice, and it is likely, if you are like me, that you'll then go read the novels. If you do, then there will be some reveals in the novella that you'll already deduce some of the plot events in the first novel. I believe that may be case with the second novel as well, but I'm not far along to give a definitive answer. Bottom line, if you like to read stories in order, then you'll want to hold off of reading this story until you have read the novels.
The main characters, Rafael and Genoveva are well developed and Cheney builds the anticipated tension that one would expect from the two social classes they represent in the Golden City. Genoveva must rely on Rafael for assistance in unravelling the mystery man that is following her and with each encounter, it becomes more dangerous for her. As such, she and Rafael find they are almost attached at the hip until the mystery is solved.
There are romantic elements in this story, but they are governed by the social class of the characters. That said, in this novella, there is a love scene that is handled very tastefully - if you are looking for graphic love scenes, you will not get them here. I actually found Cheney's approach to the romance angle nicely handled. Romance is not dead.
The novella started a little stiff in sentence structure and style, but Cheney quickly hit her stride. The locale of Portugal in the very days of the 20th century with the addition of magic and supernatural individuals peppered throughout the story made for a fresh approach to fantasy. I cannot say that I noticed any steampunk elements, but I do think having the story in Europe was an excellent choice.
I honestly enjoyed the various characters that came and went through this story and after having read the first few pages of The Golden City excerpt in The Seer's Choice, I definitely wanted to experience more of this world that Cheney had created. I picked up the first novel to follow up this novella.
The main characters, Rafael and Genoveva are well developed and Cheney builds the anticipated tension that one would expect from the two social classes they represent in the Golden City. Genoveva must rely on Rafael for assistance in unravelling the mystery man that is following her and with each encounter, it becomes more dangerous for her. As such, she and Rafael find they are almost attached at the hip until the mystery is solved.
There are romantic elements in this story, but they are governed by the social class of the characters. That said, in this novella, there is a love scene that is handled very tastefully - if you are looking for graphic love scenes, you will not get them here. I actually found Cheney's approach to the romance angle nicely handled. Romance is not dead.
The novella started a little stiff in sentence structure and style, but Cheney quickly hit her stride. The locale of Portugal in the very days of the 20th century with the addition of magic and supernatural individuals peppered throughout the story made for a fresh approach to fantasy. I cannot say that I noticed any steampunk elements, but I do think having the story in Europe was an excellent choice.
I honestly enjoyed the various characters that came and went through this story and after having read the first few pages of The Golden City excerpt in The Seer's Choice, I definitely wanted to experience more of this world that Cheney had created. I picked up the first novel to follow up this novella.
August 4, 2017
The 1800s Portugal setting of Cheney’s novella “Of Ambergris, Blood and Brandy” in Abyss & Apex was expanded by J. Kathleen Cheney into three novels set in that magical world: her Tales of the Golden City series, available from Roc. The Seer’s Choice is a book set in that world which is great as a standalone novella. This is a very satisfying paranormal mystery/romance. For many it will be a gateway drug into reading Cheney’s work, and those readers will be placing her on their shelves alongside Patricia Briggs and Ilona Andrews.
The protagonist, Genoveva Jardim, is a young woman from the Portuguese aristocracy who turns her back on her demanding and destructive family and makes a life for herself as a Special Police member. How special? She and another female officer are healers who can also kill with their hands if they are not careful. One of the officers is a person who can tell if others are lying. And the captain of the local force is a seer, who can to some extent tell the near future. She does not know this, but he’s “seen” that she will someday be his wife.
Or she will be, if she lives through an increasingly dangerous series of magical attacks. Who is attacking her? And why? I’ll not tell you any more so you can find out for yourself. It’s a delight.
The protagonist, Genoveva Jardim, is a young woman from the Portuguese aristocracy who turns her back on her demanding and destructive family and makes a life for herself as a Special Police member. How special? She and another female officer are healers who can also kill with their hands if they are not careful. One of the officers is a person who can tell if others are lying. And the captain of the local force is a seer, who can to some extent tell the near future. She does not know this, but he’s “seen” that she will someday be his wife.
Or she will be, if she lives through an increasingly dangerous series of magical attacks. Who is attacking her? And why? I’ll not tell you any more so you can find out for yourself. It’s a delight.
September 6, 2022
I really enjoyed The Golden City trilogy but I found this novella about Rafael Pinheiro and Genoveva boring. The romance felt lacklustre and mechanical, and the writing style lacked the grace and detail of the original trilogy. Characters that we had met before didn't feel true to kind (e.g. Lady Ferreira, and 'the Lady', now known as Mrs Gaspar). I think taking a mysterious fantasy figure like The Lady and putting her in a mundane setting (watching her husband play soccer) just doesn't work. It felt oddly like fan fiction to me.
August 17, 2017
This isn't a vital addition ot the Golden City books, but it is sweet, and wraps up a couple small loose ends from the main series. Unfortunately it is very poorly proofread, and there are some serious errors (including one page that just stops in the middle of a sentence and never sorts itself out elsewhere for some reason?) Hopefully that can be mended in future editions.
December 2, 2017
Really enjoyed this companion to the Golden City trilogy. I was pleasantly surprised at how quickly I became attached to Rafael and Genoveva.
The setting was as rich as usual, and it was interesting to see a little more of our favorite characters from other perspectives.
All in all, a rather romantic novella that didn't just feel tacked on!
The setting was as rich as usual, and it was interesting to see a little more of our favorite characters from other perspectives.
All in all, a rather romantic novella that didn't just feel tacked on!
January 18, 2017
Note: for full disclosure, the copy of the novella I read and based this review on was won in a Goodreads contest/giveaway from the author. This book was read and reviewed without having read the other books in The Golden City trilogy.
The Seer’s Choice is a short novella and side story that takes place in J. Kathleen Cheney’s The Golden City world. The novella alternates perspectives between Rafael Pinheiro, a Captain in the Special Police who has clairvoyant-type powers, and Genoveva Jardim, a former aristocrat and a healer who is also a member of the Special Police, and focuses on the romantic courtship between the pair and Pinheiro’s attempts to solve a mystery of a mysterious malevolent man stalking Jardim. The story takes place in an alternate early 1900s Portugal where there is a peppering of magic in the city. It’s not a steampunk story per se, but it certainly reads like one and has the same appeal.
As a book from a pod publisher, it does carry some inherent problems that should easily be fixed in subsequent pressings. Each chapter is prefaced with a date stamp, but early chapters have the order listed incorrectly. One of the chapters ends mid-sentence. They are annoying and jarring to see, but don’t necessarily diminish the quality of the story or the writing.
If there is a larger issue to take umbrage with The Seer’s Choice, it is the lack of world building and devoting time to establish the setting. This may be due to Cheney relying on readers to have read the other three books of The Golden City. Though the narrative stands on its own, the alternate world should have had more attention given to it to really solidify the setting. The Portuguese city in The Seer’s Choice is certainly interesting given what descriptors are afforded it, (use of magic, the role of high society, the emerging technology, etc.), so the additional contextualization would’ve really sold it to new readers who began with this book without alienating readers of the trilogy proper.
Aside from these two discrepancies, the story itself is fun. The romance that goes on really instills a quality of “ooooooooo” from the reader. In fact, the courtship between Pinherio and Jardim is infinitely more interesting than unraveling Jardim’s stalker. The reader is drawn in to turn the page to see how their budding romance plays outs. Both characters are extremely likable and attractive in their own ways. Pinheiro is by the books and unflappable while Jardim suffers from some insecurities that actually helps to make her feel like a more complex character. The courtship at times seems Oscar Wilde-ian, with mannerisms and social class factoring into the characters’ actions, which is no doubt due to the times the story takes place in.
The novella itself, aside from the errors inside, has a beautiful purple cover and a large chunk of another Golden City book tossed at the end to entice readers further to explore Cheney’s world. As a new reader, this really isn’t the best place to start for new readers, though the narrative holds up well on its own. Aside from that, The Seer’s Choice has many romantic moments that fill the reader with giddiness, making it a fun and short read.
The Seer’s Choice is a short novella and side story that takes place in J. Kathleen Cheney’s The Golden City world. The novella alternates perspectives between Rafael Pinheiro, a Captain in the Special Police who has clairvoyant-type powers, and Genoveva Jardim, a former aristocrat and a healer who is also a member of the Special Police, and focuses on the romantic courtship between the pair and Pinheiro’s attempts to solve a mystery of a mysterious malevolent man stalking Jardim. The story takes place in an alternate early 1900s Portugal where there is a peppering of magic in the city. It’s not a steampunk story per se, but it certainly reads like one and has the same appeal.
As a book from a pod publisher, it does carry some inherent problems that should easily be fixed in subsequent pressings. Each chapter is prefaced with a date stamp, but early chapters have the order listed incorrectly. One of the chapters ends mid-sentence. They are annoying and jarring to see, but don’t necessarily diminish the quality of the story or the writing.
If there is a larger issue to take umbrage with The Seer’s Choice, it is the lack of world building and devoting time to establish the setting. This may be due to Cheney relying on readers to have read the other three books of The Golden City. Though the narrative stands on its own, the alternate world should have had more attention given to it to really solidify the setting. The Portuguese city in The Seer’s Choice is certainly interesting given what descriptors are afforded it, (use of magic, the role of high society, the emerging technology, etc.), so the additional contextualization would’ve really sold it to new readers who began with this book without alienating readers of the trilogy proper.
Aside from these two discrepancies, the story itself is fun. The romance that goes on really instills a quality of “ooooooooo” from the reader. In fact, the courtship between Pinherio and Jardim is infinitely more interesting than unraveling Jardim’s stalker. The reader is drawn in to turn the page to see how their budding romance plays outs. Both characters are extremely likable and attractive in their own ways. Pinheiro is by the books and unflappable while Jardim suffers from some insecurities that actually helps to make her feel like a more complex character. The courtship at times seems Oscar Wilde-ian, with mannerisms and social class factoring into the characters’ actions, which is no doubt due to the times the story takes place in.
The novella itself, aside from the errors inside, has a beautiful purple cover and a large chunk of another Golden City book tossed at the end to entice readers further to explore Cheney’s world. As a new reader, this really isn’t the best place to start for new readers, though the narrative holds up well on its own. Aside from that, The Seer’s Choice has many romantic moments that fill the reader with giddiness, making it a fun and short read.
December 14, 2015
This novella was such a delight! I had already read the Golden City trilogy so I was familiar with the world and a number of the characters. So I could just jump into the story and enjoy the plot!
When you are a seer, you literally see the future but what you see does not come with either explanations nor context. You might see the woman who will be your wife (or your second mother, if you are a young child). But you have no idea what actions or inactions lead to that future. Of course, nothing is labeled so until you find out WHO that unknown woman is, you don't know who your future wife is, either.
The Seer's choice is a lovely comedy of manners. Almost like Jane Austen but set in Portugal instead of England.
You can also read it on its own but I highly recommend reading the Golden City trilogy first - Golden City, Seat of Magic, & the Shores of Spain. I considered it a highly satisfying dessert after the trilogy meal!
When you are a seer, you literally see the future but what you see does not come with either explanations nor context. You might see the woman who will be your wife (or your second mother, if you are a young child). But you have no idea what actions or inactions lead to that future. Of course, nothing is labeled so until you find out WHO that unknown woman is, you don't know who your future wife is, either.
The Seer's choice is a lovely comedy of manners. Almost like Jane Austen but set in Portugal instead of England.
You can also read it on its own but I highly recommend reading the Golden City trilogy first - Golden City, Seat of Magic, & the Shores of Spain. I considered it a highly satisfying dessert after the trilogy meal!
March 1, 2016
A decent novella by J. Kathleen Cheney. The Seer’s Choice: A Novella of the Golden City is set in Europe (I’m not sure if it’s England or Spain or some other country, but it’s definitely Europe.). The year is 1903, so you get that whole Victoria feel.
There are two point-of-view characters, Genoveva and Rafael. Both of them are police officers, but they’re part of a special unit. All the officers in the special unit are witches of sorts. Genoveva is a healer. She has the ability to heal people simply by laying her hands on them. Rafael is a seer and he can see the future, though his visions are not always clear.
A madman is stalking Genoveva. The madman has powers of his own that are apparently deadly. It is believed that he wants to hurt Genoveva because of what her father did to his son years ago. Genoveva and Rafael work together and try to capture the madman.
It was a fun read. A nice mystery-fantasy mix. I enjoyed the Victoria setting. Well done.
There are two point-of-view characters, Genoveva and Rafael. Both of them are police officers, but they’re part of a special unit. All the officers in the special unit are witches of sorts. Genoveva is a healer. She has the ability to heal people simply by laying her hands on them. Rafael is a seer and he can see the future, though his visions are not always clear.
A madman is stalking Genoveva. The madman has powers of his own that are apparently deadly. It is believed that he wants to hurt Genoveva because of what her father did to his son years ago. Genoveva and Rafael work together and try to capture the madman.
It was a fun read. A nice mystery-fantasy mix. I enjoyed the Victoria setting. Well done.
November 7, 2015
Beautiful love story
Poignant. Heartfelt. Beautiful. Thrilling. This is how I describe The Seer's Choice. It take place in same historical urban fantasy universe as the author's Golden City series. I love the mystery and sleuth elements of Cheney's books, and this novella fits right in with the rest. This tells the tale of the Ferreira and Tavares cousin Rafael Pinheiro and Genoveva Jarmin, the aristocratic young miss turned police officer. I refuse the ruin the book by telling anymore, but if you loved The Golden City books, just know this tale enriches those.
As a reader I would truly love more of Cheney's world; as I see so many paranormal mystery still taking place with her wonderful characters involved.
Note to readers explicit sexual intimacy happens off page.
Read this book as part of kindle unlimited.
Poignant. Heartfelt. Beautiful. Thrilling. This is how I describe The Seer's Choice. It take place in same historical urban fantasy universe as the author's Golden City series. I love the mystery and sleuth elements of Cheney's books, and this novella fits right in with the rest. This tells the tale of the Ferreira and Tavares cousin Rafael Pinheiro and Genoveva Jarmin, the aristocratic young miss turned police officer. I refuse the ruin the book by telling anymore, but if you loved The Golden City books, just know this tale enriches those.
As a reader I would truly love more of Cheney's world; as I see so many paranormal mystery still taking place with her wonderful characters involved.
Note to readers explicit sexual intimacy happens off page.
Read this book as part of kindle unlimited.
January 7, 2016
A novella in the same world of The Golden City (which are set in an alternate turn-of-the-20th century Portugal), but focusing on two secondary characters, Rafael Pinheiro (a cousin to the main characters in the previous books, and Captain of the Special Police) and Genoveva Jardim, a young healer in the Special Police. The story centers around a mystery of a man with new unseen before powers, who is threatening Miss Jardim. While trying to solve the puzzle of this mysterious man who means her harm is the growing romance between the two.
This story fits in well with the series and is written in that same easy, effortless style that makes it wonderful to read and reminds me of Sharon Shinn's writing. Jeannette has become a writer I want to read more of and I'm looking forward to seeing more books from her in the future.
This story fits in well with the series and is written in that same easy, effortless style that makes it wonderful to read and reminds me of Sharon Shinn's writing. Jeannette has become a writer I want to read more of and I'm looking forward to seeing more books from her in the future.
June 9, 2016
I enjoyed reading this. It was nice to find out what happened to the Genoveva from when she got rejected by Duilio. I mean I hadn't actually thought about her since that moment but it was interesting to get read her story. I'm glad she got away from her stepfather and started to live her own life joining the police force was a interesting choice she made and I was intrigued Overall this was an enjoyable novella and a good addition to the golden city series.
You don't have to read it but I don't think you would regret it either.
You don't have to read it but I don't think you would regret it either.
April 18, 2016
Entertaining. I would have preferred less romance and more action/adventure/mystery, but that's just a personal preference. Having said that the mystery was intriguing and quite scary in places. I just felt the resolution was a little weak.
May 4, 2016
Fun little novella off the side of the main Golden City series. The series is excellent, though I haven't read the last book yet. This one is - OK, featuring a romance between two minor characters from the main line but not much action. Worth it for fans :-)
October 20, 2015
Wonderful little side trip following two minor characters, Genoveva and Pinhero from the Golden City trilogy.
October 2, 2016
Enjoyable adventure in the Golden City.
September 21, 2017
This was my first exposure to this author or series, and I have to say that it was a pretty darned good story! It is filled with very courtly behaviors, magic, and mayhem most foul! I loved the sweet story of Miss Jardim and Rafaelo as they fell in love, even while evading a mystery. Excellent pace, almost no spelling or grammar issues, though on page 40 it does just abruptly cut off in the middle of a sentence, and just goes straight into the next chapter. All in all a well done story! Many thanks to the author and Goodreads!
Displaying 1 - 19 of 19 reviews