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The Pearliad
Even us simple folk know how the world works. Each person has an arca, which is set on the earth at the same time as they are and leaves when they depart. Most people don’t see their own arca in their lifetime – they just know that it’s out there somewhere, their biggest vulnerability, the key that unlocks the door to death. Because that one little item – which could be anything, from a mirror to a ribbon to a button on a coat – is your one true lifeline. The Fates have decreed that each and every person can only live as long as their arca goes undamaged.
Which means what, exactly? Well, not much to folk like us. But to the ruthless citizens of the Roman Empire? They know that nothing reaps more power than holding another man’s life in your hands. My Da used to tell stories of the Agitatrexes, tyrants who would seek out men’s arcae and hold them against their will, turning them into slaves. Even moral people hunt the world over for their own arca, to get there before someone with impure intentions does. And there is another benefit to possessing your own arca – if it remains intact, you are immortal.
Now tell me, what would you do if the arca of one of the most feared men of the Empire washed up on the shore by your home? If this pretty pearl caught your eye, and you were bound by custom to protect it? And the man who wants it will stop at nothing, even if it means searching for your arca to kill you first. I can tell you what you would do, what I am doing now:
You would run.
Which means what, exactly? Well, not much to folk like us. But to the ruthless citizens of the Roman Empire? They know that nothing reaps more power than holding another man’s life in your hands. My Da used to tell stories of the Agitatrexes, tyrants who would seek out men’s arcae and hold them against their will, turning them into slaves. Even moral people hunt the world over for their own arca, to get there before someone with impure intentions does. And there is another benefit to possessing your own arca – if it remains intact, you are immortal.
Now tell me, what would you do if the arca of one of the most feared men of the Empire washed up on the shore by your home? If this pretty pearl caught your eye, and you were bound by custom to protect it? And the man who wants it will stop at nothing, even if it means searching for your arca to kill you first. I can tell you what you would do, what I am doing now:
You would run.
144 pages, Kindle Edition
First published February 20, 2013
10 people want to read
About the author
Rosie Pugh
1 book9 followersRosie Pugh is a young British author. After four magical years among the dreaming spires of Oxford she was awarded a degree in Classics and English from Jesus College in 2015. She is currently studying for an MPhil in Medieval Studies at the University of Bristol.
When she isn't getting nerdily excited about medieval manuscripts, Rosie can normally be found in her writing hut at home in Malvern, Worcestershire.
Her first novel, The Pearliad, was published by Limehouse Books in 2014. She is currently working on her next YA project alongside her studies.
When she isn't getting nerdily excited about medieval manuscripts, Rosie can normally be found in her writing hut at home in Malvern, Worcestershire.
Her first novel, The Pearliad, was published by Limehouse Books in 2014. She is currently working on her next YA project alongside her studies.
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Displaying 1 - 6 of 6 reviews
February 28, 2014
Solid debut. At times I felt it was a bit rushed, I wanted to dwell in the places Effie visited longer to get a more nuanced feel for the environment, especially through direct experience rather than narrative, but the story is a strong point, fast-paced and compelling. Saying all this I'm not usually a fan of YA so that I'm waiting for the next one is a positive sign!
August 12, 2016
This book turned a rather dismal flight into an adventure! I loved the way in which the reader was slowly guided into a world so different and at the same time so similar to the one we know, and how credible the characters are. The ease and beauty of quite a few sentences made me stop and start scrabbling for a pen! I can barely wait for the next two to be in my grasp.
May 28, 2014
It's a very original story, and, having met the author, I can appreciate how it arose and the amount of thought that went into it. The ending was so good! It's such a cliffhanger, and I cried when... spoilers.... But honestly, I can't wait for the second instalment!
March 21, 2014
Great and thrilling read from start to finish - a real page turner. Not only is the story engaging but the book is also really well written. The story is really unique and full of suspense, adventure, mystery and myth. Can't wait for the next one!!
March 23, 2015
I've been meaning to read this for ages. it was,recommended to me by a friend, whose daughter knew the author at Oxford. a tenuous link really but enough to make me decide to give it a go. I really enjoyed it, a mystical adventure with plenty to keep me guessing, a real shock at one point and a desire at the end to read the next book immediately - a problem as its not published yet!
February 4, 2015
I was really surprised by this book and can't wait to read parts 2 and 3. It's very strong and engaging story, not another cheap YA novel. Thought I thought some places are a bit rushed and could have been a bit longer - to endure the reading pleasure. The style is not boring and the world created is catchy.
Displaying 1 - 6 of 6 reviews