The Solace of Stars

A City of Silver Novella

Leif Trysz has many talents. Running their mother’s business is not one of them.

When Leif is kicked out by their mother, a well-respected apothecary serving the High District of the city of Chestervale, they find themself employed by the famous and formidable Marcus Beldon, leader of the city’s esteemed family of vampire hunters. Leif has no idea what such a family would need with an apothecary, but at least it’s somewhere to go.

Leif might have a luxurious roof over their head now, but their problems are hardly solved. The Beldons are a cold, withdrawn bunch who see Leif as more of a nuisance than a resource. And then there’s the stubborn, immovable family physician, Adriyen, who considers Leif’s mere existence to be a personal threat.

Yet, despite the Beldons’ gloom and the near-constant conflicts with Adriyen, Leif gradually finds a place and a purpose among the family––until sudden tragedy shatters their new-found comfort once again. But it’s not just Leif who’s reeling from the loss, and such things often have a way of bridging even the most cavernous gaps.

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This novella is a companion to my novel Silver Blood but can be read independently. Intended for adult audiences. Approximately 150 pages. Expected publication May 27, 2025.

Content warnings:
Emotional neglect and abuse by a parent; domestic violence; off-page suicide; discussions of suicide; bullying; unintentional misgendering.