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Cry Havoc #1
Ruby Heart
Paranormal Victorian steampunk fantasy, with Gothic horror and romance.
A book of manners, magic and mayhem.
After her father is murdered, budding scientist Jemima Hardcastle is packed off to boarding school by her guardian and heir to Willow Park, Edward Huntington. When they finally meet again at a house party, four years later, Edward doesn't recognise his ward and the two share a flirtation that is broken when Jemima confesses her true identity. The murder of another party guest and the theft of a precious gem interrupt any chance they have to resolve their feelings. Edward coldly ships Jemima off once more - this time back to her old home.
At Willow Park, under the chaperonage of the odious Aunt Prudence and meek cousin Milly, Jemima is expected to concentrate on her needlework. Instead, she finds a friend in Edward's man, Fulton, who shows her the artificial leg his employer built for him. Impressed by this revelation of scientific genius and generosity, Jemima's esteem for Edward rises and she longs to see him again -- but he does not arrive home as planned. When she discovers he has been abducted, Jemima plans a rescue, but unbeknownst to her, Edward is a gentleman magician and his devices have more than science on their side.
She and Fulton plunge into London's hidden world of dark sorcery as they search everywhere for Edward -- in the slums, manufactureys, and even a bawdy house. When they finally find him, Jemima's life is already on the line.
As Edward struggles with his feelings for his ward, Jemima's only hope for survival is if he uses one of his devices to revive the vampiric beast, Geneck ... but the ensuing havoc could destroy London itself.
A book of manners, magic and mayhem.
After her father is murdered, budding scientist Jemima Hardcastle is packed off to boarding school by her guardian and heir to Willow Park, Edward Huntington. When they finally meet again at a house party, four years later, Edward doesn't recognise his ward and the two share a flirtation that is broken when Jemima confesses her true identity. The murder of another party guest and the theft of a precious gem interrupt any chance they have to resolve their feelings. Edward coldly ships Jemima off once more - this time back to her old home.
At Willow Park, under the chaperonage of the odious Aunt Prudence and meek cousin Milly, Jemima is expected to concentrate on her needlework. Instead, she finds a friend in Edward's man, Fulton, who shows her the artificial leg his employer built for him. Impressed by this revelation of scientific genius and generosity, Jemima's esteem for Edward rises and she longs to see him again -- but he does not arrive home as planned. When she discovers he has been abducted, Jemima plans a rescue, but unbeknownst to her, Edward is a gentleman magician and his devices have more than science on their side.
She and Fulton plunge into London's hidden world of dark sorcery as they search everywhere for Edward -- in the slums, manufactureys, and even a bawdy house. When they finally find him, Jemima's life is already on the line.
As Edward struggles with his feelings for his ward, Jemima's only hope for survival is if he uses one of his devices to revive the vampiric beast, Geneck ... but the ensuing havoc could destroy London itself.
294 pages, Paperback
Published February 27, 2019
14 people are currently reading
48 people want to read
About the author
Donna Maree Hanson
50 books45 followersDonna Maree Hanson is a Canberra-based writer of fantasy, science fiction, horror, and under the pseudonym (Dani Kristoff) paranormal romance.
Her dark fantasy series (which some reviewers have called ‘grim dark’), Dragon Wine, is published by Momentum Books (Pan Macmillan digital imprint). Book 1: Shatterwing and Book 2: Skywatcher are out now in digital and print on demand.
In April 2015, she was awarded the A. Bertram Chandler Award for ‘Outstanding Achievement in Australian Science Fiction’ for her work in running science fiction conventions, publishing and broader SF community contribution.
Donna also writes young adult science fiction, with Rayessa and the Space Pirates and Rae and Essa’s Space Adventures out with Escape Publishing. Look out for Opi Battles the Space Pirates coming soon.
In 2016, Donna commenced her PhD candidature researching Feminism in Popular Romance. Also her first Indie published book, Argenterra, was publishing in late April 2016. Argenterra is the first in an epic fantasy series (the Silverlands) suitable for adult and young adult readers. The final two books are due out in early 2017.
Donna grew up in New South Wales mostly, but was living in Bondi when she gave up school at aged 15 without any qualifications. She did a stint as a hairdressing apprentice and then worked for a stockbroker. After running off to New Zealand for a man, she started studying again, gaining her year 10 school certificate and later University Entrance.
Once back in Australia as a single mum with three kids to support, Donna eventually started studying again, finishing a degree in Economics at the Uni of Sydney, majoring in accounting. She worked in the Australian Public Service as an auditor, leaving that job in 2016. While working she did a certificate in professional writing (editing) and a Masters in Creative Writing at the University of Canberra. Looking back over her life, she is proud to be undertaking a PhD in Creative Writing.
Her dark fantasy series (which some reviewers have called ‘grim dark’), Dragon Wine, is published by Momentum Books (Pan Macmillan digital imprint). Book 1: Shatterwing and Book 2: Skywatcher are out now in digital and print on demand.
In April 2015, she was awarded the A. Bertram Chandler Award for ‘Outstanding Achievement in Australian Science Fiction’ for her work in running science fiction conventions, publishing and broader SF community contribution.
Donna also writes young adult science fiction, with Rayessa and the Space Pirates and Rae and Essa’s Space Adventures out with Escape Publishing. Look out for Opi Battles the Space Pirates coming soon.
In 2016, Donna commenced her PhD candidature researching Feminism in Popular Romance. Also her first Indie published book, Argenterra, was publishing in late April 2016. Argenterra is the first in an epic fantasy series (the Silverlands) suitable for adult and young adult readers. The final two books are due out in early 2017.
Donna grew up in New South Wales mostly, but was living in Bondi when she gave up school at aged 15 without any qualifications. She did a stint as a hairdressing apprentice and then worked for a stockbroker. After running off to New Zealand for a man, she started studying again, gaining her year 10 school certificate and later University Entrance.
Once back in Australia as a single mum with three kids to support, Donna eventually started studying again, finishing a degree in Economics at the Uni of Sydney, majoring in accounting. She worked in the Australian Public Service as an auditor, leaving that job in 2016. While working she did a certificate in professional writing (editing) and a Masters in Creative Writing at the University of Canberra. Looking back over her life, she is proud to be undertaking a PhD in Creative Writing.
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Displaying 1 - 10 of 10 reviews
March 20, 2019
This novel pulls together many my favourite tropes. There's gruesome Gothic melodrama, plus Victorian comedy of manners... a disapproving aunt, a Satanic villain with vampiric tastes, a science-minded headstrong heroine with a Classical education, and a hero to be rescued. A fun, fast read that I thoroughly enjoyed.
January 24, 2026
Ruby Heart is the first novel in Donna Maree Hanson’s Cry Havoc series and is a whimsical steampunk novel set in Victorian times that offers readers a glimpse into a magical world of mayhem and promise.
When her father is murdered, budding scientist Jemima Hardcastle is sent away to boarding school by her new guardian Edward Huntington in an effort to straighten out the rambunctious preteen and teach her etiquette. Barley an adult himself, Edward saw no way he could offer Jemima the guidance she needed and hopes time away would. Four years later the two share a flirtation at a party when Edward fails to realise who. Once Jemima’s identity is revealed, the two find themselves at odds, but then a party guest is murdered and Edward coldly ships Jemima off once more. Sent this time to her childhood home, everything continues to spiral when Edward himself soon disappears. Jemima is determined to get to the bottom of her guardian’s disappearance so alongside his trusted aid Fulton she sets out in an elaborate plan to discover his whereabouts. Yet there is danger lurking within the streets and Jemima’s curiosity may just get her killed….
I’ll be honest and admit that as the vain creature that I am, it was first the cover of Ruby Heart that first captured my attention. Simply stunning, it bewitched me and caused me to take note of this Victorian steampunk novel. Diving into the story, I quickly became immersed in the world Donna Maree Hanson has crafted. Though slow to weave the steampunk element into the story—this comes later in the novel—I found myself intrigued by the two main characters and then complex relationship they had.
Ruby Heart unfolds in the third person and follows both Jemima Hardcastle and her guardian Edward Huntington, periodically switching back and forth between them and the events transferring. Both Jemima and Edward are easily likable. Though products of their times, both are also tenacious and dare to be different; Jemima with her forward thinking for a woman in this era and Edward for his experiments and inventions.
Much of the story centres around Jemima’s search for her missing guardian and features the day to day events of her daily life. Shopping, parties and the receiving of guests give way to secret searches in the night and investigations into who is behind Edwards disappearance. Jemima is supported by Fulton, Edwards trusted “steward” and Milly who is the object of his affections; a quiet but sweet character who becomes a true friend to Jemima.
Donna Maree Hanson offers small glimpses of magic and fantasy in Ruby Heart. Sorcerers, vampires and surgically altered men temp, but there is still so much about the world Jemima and Edward inhabit that I want to know. I’m hoping we’ll delve deeper into the secret world of magic in the next novel, but will definitely be looking to read the sequel after the delectable way Ruby Heart ended.
When her father is murdered, budding scientist Jemima Hardcastle is sent away to boarding school by her new guardian Edward Huntington in an effort to straighten out the rambunctious preteen and teach her etiquette. Barley an adult himself, Edward saw no way he could offer Jemima the guidance she needed and hopes time away would. Four years later the two share a flirtation at a party when Edward fails to realise who. Once Jemima’s identity is revealed, the two find themselves at odds, but then a party guest is murdered and Edward coldly ships Jemima off once more. Sent this time to her childhood home, everything continues to spiral when Edward himself soon disappears. Jemima is determined to get to the bottom of her guardian’s disappearance so alongside his trusted aid Fulton she sets out in an elaborate plan to discover his whereabouts. Yet there is danger lurking within the streets and Jemima’s curiosity may just get her killed….
I’ll be honest and admit that as the vain creature that I am, it was first the cover of Ruby Heart that first captured my attention. Simply stunning, it bewitched me and caused me to take note of this Victorian steampunk novel. Diving into the story, I quickly became immersed in the world Donna Maree Hanson has crafted. Though slow to weave the steampunk element into the story—this comes later in the novel—I found myself intrigued by the two main characters and then complex relationship they had.
Ruby Heart unfolds in the third person and follows both Jemima Hardcastle and her guardian Edward Huntington, periodically switching back and forth between them and the events transferring. Both Jemima and Edward are easily likable. Though products of their times, both are also tenacious and dare to be different; Jemima with her forward thinking for a woman in this era and Edward for his experiments and inventions.
Much of the story centres around Jemima’s search for her missing guardian and features the day to day events of her daily life. Shopping, parties and the receiving of guests give way to secret searches in the night and investigations into who is behind Edwards disappearance. Jemima is supported by Fulton, Edwards trusted “steward” and Milly who is the object of his affections; a quiet but sweet character who becomes a true friend to Jemima.
Donna Maree Hanson offers small glimpses of magic and fantasy in Ruby Heart. Sorcerers, vampires and surgically altered men temp, but there is still so much about the world Jemima and Edward inhabit that I want to know. I’m hoping we’ll delve deeper into the secret world of magic in the next novel, but will definitely be looking to read the sequel after the delectable way Ruby Heart ended.
August 6, 2020
Who else likes the thrill and challenge of reading a genre you don’t typically gravitate too?
That thrill is heightened when you thoroughly enjoy it.
Ruby Heart is a Steam Punk love story set in the Victorian era.
The world just awakening to the Industrial revolution with new machinations and inventions.
Add some magic and trade mark steam punk metal traits and some unconventional romance.
Jemima is sent off to boarding school after her father’s murder by her new guardian, Edward.
Offsetting a revenge inspired ambition for him.
She strikes years later and the repercussions lead to a story of intrigue, fun and kidnap.
To keep Jemima in line he seeks the help of his odious Aunt Prudence and her charge Milly.
Bringing humour and fun to the plot as Jemima does what she can to pull the wool over her eyes and help Milly discover her own love.
Edward’s kidnap adds an exciting dimension and the journey to free him ensues.
Magic and trickery interlace the plot, romance brews and each character has a great part to play.
This is the first book in the series and if you haven’t already read a book in this genre take a punt as I thoroughly enjoyed the ride.
That thrill is heightened when you thoroughly enjoy it.
Ruby Heart is a Steam Punk love story set in the Victorian era.
The world just awakening to the Industrial revolution with new machinations and inventions.
Add some magic and trade mark steam punk metal traits and some unconventional romance.
Jemima is sent off to boarding school after her father’s murder by her new guardian, Edward.
Offsetting a revenge inspired ambition for him.
She strikes years later and the repercussions lead to a story of intrigue, fun and kidnap.
To keep Jemima in line he seeks the help of his odious Aunt Prudence and her charge Milly.
Bringing humour and fun to the plot as Jemima does what she can to pull the wool over her eyes and help Milly discover her own love.
Edward’s kidnap adds an exciting dimension and the journey to free him ensues.
Magic and trickery interlace the plot, romance brews and each character has a great part to play.
This is the first book in the series and if you haven’t already read a book in this genre take a punt as I thoroughly enjoyed the ride.
October 14, 2019
Based upon the cover image and the opening chapters this book was nothing like I expected it to be. I was expecting a fun filled story about a cheeky young woman who loved science and inventing things. Instead the book begins as a Victorian quasi-romance but rapidly turns very dark. As it does so, the book becomes part Frankenstein park Dracula with dark magic thrown into the mix.
The pace is varied. At time very slow and at other times much quicker. Once you realise it is a dark fiction you can adjust your expectations and the book is quite suspenseful. I was however quite disappointed in the heroine who constantly needed rescuing, while the actual hero had no point of view.
The writing is good but spoiled by endless missing or additional words that made the book at times difficult to read. The book is for people who can handle dark fiction and don't mind cross-genre.
The pace is varied. At time very slow and at other times much quicker. Once you realise it is a dark fiction you can adjust your expectations and the book is quite suspenseful. I was however quite disappointed in the heroine who constantly needed rescuing, while the actual hero had no point of view.
The writing is good but spoiled by endless missing or additional words that made the book at times difficult to read. The book is for people who can handle dark fiction and don't mind cross-genre.
October 19, 2019
I read this as part of historical fantasy book of the month. I liked this one but it did have a few problems. Some of the language used felt a little inappropriate as in not something they would say in that time period and also it sometimes felt little nuggets would be dropped and I'd think now where did that come from? But all in all it was entertaining and at some point I'll finish the series. 3.5 stars.
June 13, 2019
Happily surprised
Not my normal reading fare, but I enjoyed it immensely. I was pleasantly surprised at the length of this novel. Instead of splitting it up into several tiny books, it's a full length read. Thank goodness! Refreshing in this age of "publish 3 chapters and call it a book". Thank you and please continue in this vein; don't stoop to their level!
Not my normal reading fare, but I enjoyed it immensely. I was pleasantly surprised at the length of this novel. Instead of splitting it up into several tiny books, it's a full length read. Thank goodness! Refreshing in this age of "publish 3 chapters and call it a book". Thank you and please continue in this vein; don't stoop to their level!
February 19, 2019
Steampunk perfection
A fantastic read, great characters, Jemima Is sassy and headstrong, Hilly is the perfect balance to Jemima and the dilema of who the male characters really are against the mystery, romance, and vampires is a perfect, winning combination.
A fantastic read, great characters, Jemima Is sassy and headstrong, Hilly is the perfect balance to Jemima and the dilema of who the male characters really are against the mystery, romance, and vampires is a perfect, winning combination.
March 19, 2019
I love steampunk but
I love steampunk but this story didn't live up to expectations. Some parts felt off or flat. Add in multiple odious characters and it was a bust despite the interesting plot and sweet side romance.
I love steampunk but this story didn't live up to expectations. Some parts felt off or flat. Add in multiple odious characters and it was a bust despite the interesting plot and sweet side romance.
April 20, 2019
Science and magic what more can you ask for!
Loved it from start to finish. The romance, science, The magic all blended nicely to make an exceptional read. You won't be disappointed.
Loved it from start to finish. The romance, science, The magic all blended nicely to make an exceptional read. You won't be disappointed.
June 17, 2020
Super fun!!! I can’t wait to read the next one!!
Displaying 1 - 10 of 10 reviews