The Train

The Spell Saga #1

by Cari Z.

Anton Seiber, journeyman thaumaturge, has finally escaped his dead-end job identifying bodies in the morgues of London. He’s off to seek a brighter future…or he would be, if he hadn’t just been robbed, mugged, and turned away from the only train that will help him reach that future on time.

A random meeting turns into a fight for his life and gifts Anton with two things: a knife that always kills whatever it stabs, and the chance to assume the identity of the man who just tried to kill him and board the train in his place.

He wasn’t counting on being found out by a lumière, one of the French emperor’s most powerful and intriguing spies. He wasn’t betting on a murder being committed on the train, or on being asked for his help identifying the culprits. He wasn’t asking to be drawn into a web of simmering insurrection, and he certainly didn’t want to find Lord Lumière so irresistible, but there’s no denying it.

Perhaps Anton will even tell him so…if he survives to the end of this journey.

Genres: Historical, Fantasy, Steampunk, M M Romance, Paranormal, Mystery, Magic

110 pages, Kindle Edition

First published July 30, 2016

About the author

Cari Z. is a Colorado girl who loves snow and sunshine. She has a wonderful relationship with her husband, a complex relationship with the characters in her head and a sadomasochistic relationship with her exercise routine. She feels like Halloween should happen every month, which is why you get this picture of her, and hopes that you enjoy reading what she's put out there as much as she enjoyed writing it in the first place.

Reviews

[Optimist ♰King's Wench♰ · Rating 4 out of 5]

I started this when Cari was posting it on her website but somewhere along the way I lost track of it, so I kinda begged her to make it downloadable once she was done and I ain't even sorry because this is some stellar storytelling. The language is rich, vibrant and evocative. I felt transported to her AU pre-WWI steampunk world.

I would say I'd like to ride on this train but there is some tomfoolery afoot that I would not want to be on the wrong end of.



Anton uses a little duplicity to get on this train which turns out to be serendipitous for both he and Camille. Camille works for the emperor and there is a presence about him that is hard to ignore, especially for Anton. Anton is an amateur thaumaturge who is on his way to Zurich for school so they strike a bargain. Turns out, they make a good team and there is something slowly blossoming between them, but there is no sex. There is one kiss with the promise of more to come in the future.



The focus is solving the crime. The pace is swift with Cari's signature "breadcrumb" storytelling style that I find so engaging. It held my attention from start to finish and I'm eager to read more of Anton and Camille. All the magic enhanced the story rather than overtaking it and there are not a lot of gadgets and tinkering for those averse.

Recommended for people who enjoy a good story with great world building and a slow burn romance. Plus, it's free!

[Len Evans Jr · Rating 4 out of 5]

An extremely well written and told store filled with lots of intrigue, suspense and excitement! Already bought the next book and can't wait to see what happens next!

[Alison · Rating 4 out of 5]

Enjoyable. This is a fun little novella about a skilled alchemy student on his way to university and the many troubles he encounters on his journey, which include a lot of dead bodies and also a handsome spy who needs his help. It's short and punchy and I just bought the next one.

[Kaje Harper · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a fun novella to begin a new steampunkish-fantasy series. Anton is an interesting MC as a man with a lot of magical talent, ambition but limited means, and a slightly flexible moral compass. He is desperate to get to Zurich, where he has a once-in-a-lifetime chance to start a new future, but only if he makes it on time. When his train is displaced by a special one, he has few scruples in taking a dead man's place to get on that train and not lose his chance.

Unfortunately, his deception is spotted by one of the French emperor's most powerful spies. Fortunately, his magical talents are useful enough to the lumiere - Camille - that he's allowed to continue the deception, in exchange for helping with a murder on the train.

This is far more plot than romance to date, with only the smallest hint of romantic progress at the end. But the world-building is lush and fascinating, and the characters are intriguing. I'm off to pick up the rest (addendum - there is a box set of all 4 that is significantly cheaper, if you decide to dive in.)

[QuietlyKat · Rating 4 out of 5]

Seems like I’ve been reading a lot of ‘not quite a romance yet’ books lately but as with others I’ve reviewed recently, I was impressed with the set up, world building and execution of the storyline and plot of Cari Z’s The Train. The intriguing, fast paced storytelling and likable, compelling characters have me hooked. The sexual chemistry between the characters has mostly only been hinted at, but I love a good tease.

I’m really looking forward to continuing this series and have already begun book 2 of The Spell Saga, The Tower.

[PaperMoon · Rating 4 out of 5]

Engaging, well written murder-action plot set an alt-historical steampunk magical universe where a Bonaparte dynasty rules over a late nineteeth-century Europe. There is no M-M action (romance fans be warned) but there is a promise of something between the MCs by book's end; happy to go on with this series. 4.5 stars for an excellent read.

[Kassu · Rating 4 out of 5]

4⭐

This was my first Cari Z. story (read together with the prequel 'The Threshold') and I was impressed. I was very interested in the magical world even during the prequel, but when I got to this book and realised it actually happens in a train, I was sold. I can't help myself - trains! And what a train ride it was: engaging and thrilling.

It's "only" a 4 star and not a more because it ends so suddenly and the romantic thing barely begins. It's a series, I get it. Still, the ending could have been more satisfying.

[Marzipop · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5, interesting but no chemistry lol

[UltraMeital · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 stars

Calling this short novella cute is kinda strange considering the mystery and murder happening on this train in only a 3 days ride, yet when I closed my kindle with a smile at the very end, that's what I thought. I LOVED it, really enjoyed it though I have to say I DID struggle with the language at first (English isn't my mother tongue and I don't have a lot of experience with Steampunk).

Anton Seiber is a student of thaumaturgy (basically magic), on his way to the University of Zurich to continue his studies. It's IMPERATIVE that he arrives on time for his internship but it doesn't seem likely since his destined train was just switched to a royal ride of one of the Emperor's cousins on his way to get married. Not sure what to do he knows he HAS to be on this train no matter what so with a strange kind of occurrence he finds himself impersonating one of the guests.

It doesn't take long for investigator to the Emperor Camille Lumiere to realize the man calling himself Consul Hasler is an impostor.. But as he speaks with Anton and he in turn confesses his actions, Lumiere realizes Anton can actually be an asset in the current state of affairs. While he believes the train will get to it's destination in 3 days he doesn't believe ALL passengers will.. The first morning, starting of with a scream reveals the first victim. Together they resolve the matter with and without Anton's magic but with wit from both of them for sure.

While this isn't truly a romance novella, there's only a kiss shared between Anton and Lumiere it DOES feel like the beginning of one. I enjoyed seeing these two very different men get closer to each other. Their situation actually reminded me of something from my previous read - A Blinded Mind (not saying more not to spoiler). Looking forward to delving into "The Tower" which is a prequel published in chapters in Cari's blog as this one was originally (now available as a free downloadable file).

I say, it you have a bit of a free time you should DEFINITELY give it a go.

Final note I HAD to add. I couldn't ignore the fact "Lumiere" is also the name of the lantern in Beauty and The Beast. It made me laugh at the beginning thinking about it. As I finished and went to sleep guess what I dreamed about? Hehe an adaptation to the movie in German?! What's up brain? The human mind.. a mystery..

More Reviews HERE

[Erica · Rating 4 out of 5]

What a turnaround!

I disliked the first 30% of this book pretty intensely. But it's pretty short, and I figured I could tough it out.

I'm sure glad I did.

The last half is action-packed, adrenaline-fueled adventure. Anton manages to remove the stick from his ass, and Camille shows his softer side as well.

I can't wait to move on to the next installment.

[Moony Black · Rating 4 out of 5]

Fue increíble, al principio no le tenía ni una fe pero conforme fue avanzando me pique hasta terminarlo, el universo que plantea está muy bueno ya quiero seguir con los demás libros

[Sarah Fuller · Rating 4 out of 5]

A nice little queer magical steampunk type of mystery.

[Melanie · Rating 5 out of 5]

It’s magical, suspenseful, murderous, and more entertaining then you can imagine!

Rating: 4.5🌈

What a exciting and suspenseful story! From the moment we dive into the harried life of young Anton Seiber, journeyman thaumaturge, we are plunged into a world of murder, spies, Royal espionage, and magical weaponry! On a train!

The Train (The Spell Saga: Book 1) by Cari Z has a nonstop fast action plot that’s rich with excellent characters, a multitude of themes, from those peoples wishing freedom from Royalty to dangerously magical weaponry and spells to imminent continental war. With a the hint of a romance as well.

Mystery, murder, and magic!

I’ll go ahead and throw in the mayhem that occurs when Anton Seiber misses his train to Zurich from a Paris layover. He’s got a hard earned scholarship to the Masters of Thaumaturgy program at the prestigious Universität Zürich and he must be there precisely on time or all will be lost.

So when the occasion arises where he assumes the identity of a man that will be traveling on the last train to get him there? He takes it.

Anton Seiber is such a fabulous character. He’s worked hard to become the best thaumaturge he can and you absolutely believe in his pursuit of knowledge and his magical abilities. He’s a vivid personality that makes you wonder what’s happening within his head, and heart!

The person to bring out the most confusing emotions and the best of his abilities is the French Emperor’s spy ,Lord Camille Lumière . It’s their joint investigations aboard the train, the murders and murderous attempts that keep this story rocking along at a fast pace . It also keeps us guessing as to who the next target is and where the danger is coming from. And are they ever going to kiss?

The Train and our heroes work through all the investigations to a highly satisfying ending that starts a hint of a romance for the series.

The Train leaves me in great anticipation for The Tower, coming out soon.

Until then, I’m highly recommending The Train, the first in this new series by Cari Z. It’s magical, suspenseful, murderous, and more entertaining then you can imagine!

[Maraya21 (The Reading Dragon) · Rating 4 out of 5]

💥 Read for the Bang In The Night 2 - The Monster Smash (#BangInTheNight) Bingo with the #ButDoTheyBang Group 💥

  
    •• 25. Murder, She Wrote! ••
  

🎉 Bingo (3rd) 🎉

• High body count
• Interesting magicks, oftenly used
• Alternative reality (That made me dive into a brief search of the history of Bonaparte and his fam)
• Chemistry between the MCs was good enough for something this short and heavily plot driven.
• Did I mention a high body count?
• Plot: there was one
• MCs: I liked them well enough but reserving judgement for now. I need & want more data
Awaiting book #2, I want to see how this will turn out ✔


Bingo Images:

[Mark Lucas-Taylor · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Train

I have to admit that this story was not how I expected it, in fact it was much better. Anton Seiber, journeyman thaumaturge, is inadvertently drawn into a complex murder plot , his subsequent encounter with very enigmatic Lumiére, Camille plunges him even deeper into the various conspiracies taking place.
This is an intelligent written story and may leave one scratching one’s head, but persevere through and sense will prevail.
I would venture that it falls into the genre of steampunk crossed with murder mystery and does that extremely well.
This is the first in a series and I look forward to reading more of Cari Z’s writing.
.

[Alejandra · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5⭐ | Entretenido y bien escrito. PERO, el intento de romance, flop.

Anton y Camille se llevan conociendo menos de un día, y ya hay hints de se gustan. Y está bien, peeero, se sintió más como si Anton se maravillara de cualquier gesto gentil de Camille, mientras que este se comportaba así a las horas de conocerse. Además, ¿cómo es que Camille le confió un secreto tan importante a Anton al segundo día de haberse conocido? Cuando en realidad, el hecho de que estén interactuando es por conveniencia.

Me parece ilógico y, más que nada, apresurado y forzado el desarrollo del inicio de una historia de amor en tan poco tiempo.

[Shymsal · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.75 stars. Interesting play on alchemy and necromancy. Slight mystery, hints of romance. I am a little concerned as the next book in the series takes place significantly later -- after Anton and Camille have solidified their relationship and I won't get to see one of my favorite parts - a couple finally getting together and saying, out loud, what's between them. Perhaps they will not have had much time together (despite the passage of years) and still haven't worked that out. That would suck for them both -- and perhaps for me, depending on how things are written.

[Emma · Rating 3 out of 5]

Quite enjoyable but only on a surface level. 3*

The idea for this series is good and I did enjoy this first book. Unfortunately everything was just a bit lacking. Interesting world but not well explained. Interesting magic but again not fleshed out. Mystery was good but the solution seemed to have big jumps in the investigation and something truly missing from the motive.

I probably will go read the next book but I didn't want to do so right away, despite the fact I had to download the whole series in order to get book 1.

[Patdbooks · Rating 4 out of 5]

It was an enjoyable read from start to finish. Anton a young thaumaturg on travelling to Zurich when he is caught up in murder, intrigue, mystery, and a slow moving train. on top of that, he is forced to work along sife the lumiere Camille. who is infuriating but captivating. this well written story is set in an alternative napoleononic era where magic is everywhere. This book , the first in the series, promises an interesting partnership between Anton and Camille, especially if the kiss on the last page is anything to go with.

[nowyat · Rating 5 out of 5]

I waited for the last book to come out before I r,ead it...

But I just loved this awesome series! The books are short so I'm glad I read it all as one big book but the story and charcters were really different and enthralling! It's a mix of magic and history I didn't expect to like but the action and romance keep you waiting for the next event. Plus everyone loves trains and dirigibles! Adding it to my permanent re-read stockpile!!!

[Anita · Rating 4 out of 5]

So clearly steampunk is not a regular read for me! Had to Google a word only five sentences in - lol. What in the world is a thaumaturge?! Yes, so much of this book was somewhat incomprehensible but finally got the hang of it at about 30%. Very interesting. I think I only finished it because Cari Z is such a great author. Probably would have DNFed but kept going. She does action scenes so well and this was indeed action packed and imaginative. Glad it was short, though.

[Rebecca · Rating 5 out of 5]

a fun, romantic mystery set in an alternate European history

I really loved Camille and Anton's dynamic: Camille is experienced but calm and steady, Anton is young and unsure but also skilled and very confident in his abilities. The magical system was also fun to learn about!

[Lee Hall · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Train

This is the first book in a series by Cari Z, and it’s a brilliant beginning! Full of murder and intrigue, the book kept me on my toes the entire time. I’m truly looking forward to reading the next book in the series! Highly Recommended

[Amba Thomas · Rating 4 out of 5]

Quite a short series but very enjoyable. Loved the relationship between Anton and Camille, it was written really well and I enjoyed the characters a lot. It would have been nice to have their relationship and characters explored a bit more but overall a great read.

[ᓚᘏᗢ · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.25*

[Julia · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5. Lovely historical paranormal mystery with steampunkish elements. The worldbuilding is cool but I wish we’d spent more time with Camille and Anton together.

[Suzanne Irving · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fascinating beginning

This is definitely a good start to this series. I finally had time to start reading this and I enjoyed it immensely.

[IU_read · Rating 3 out of 5]

Interesting concept but lack chemistry

[Nicole · Rating 3 out of 5]

Short, heavy on the mystery and light in the romance. Good characterizations of the MCs... but hoping the series continues to add more depth to the world. Agatha Christi light with some magic.

[James Altes · Rating 5 out of 5]

most enjoyable and intriguing

Fabulous book! While some hints were dropped along the way it was a book I couldn’t put down. Looking forward to reading more.