The Thirteenth Hour: Book One of The Cruel Gods by Trudie Skies

SPFBO 2022 Finalist
BBNYA 2022 Finalist
Indie Ink Award Winner 2022 for Best Setting and Wittiest Character

WHEN THE SAINTS FAIL, THE SINNERS STEP UP.

Cruel gods rule the steam-powered city of Chime, demanding worship and tribute from their mortal subjects. Kayl lost her faith in them long ago, and now seeks to protect vulnerable and downtrodden mortals from their gods’ whims. But when Kayl discovers powers that she didn’t know she had—and destroys a mortal’s soul by accident—she becomes Chime’s most wanted.

Quen’s job was to pursue sinners, until the visions started. Haunted by foreboding images of his beloved city’s destruction, Quen hunts soul-sucking creatures made of aether who prey on its citizens—and Kayl is his number one target.

To ensure Chime’s future, Kayl and Quen must discover the truth of Kayl’s divine abilities before the gods take matters into their own hands.

For a city that bows to cruel gods, it’ll take godless heathens to save it.

The Thirteenth Hour is the first book in The Cruel Gods series—a gaslamp fantasy featuring magical portals, gothic cosmic deities, quaint Britishisms, and steampunk vibes. This is an adult book containing strong language and mature themes that some readers may find disturbing. For a full list of content warnings, visit Trudie Skies’s website.

“I love this book. To me, The Thirteenth Hour is a masterpiece. It’s a celebration of fantasy and character. It’s over-the-top crazy, but it’s real and grounded and raw. It is perhaps my favourite self-published book of all time.”
Hiu Gregg – The Fantasy Inn

“The Thirteenth Hour is a fast-paced, action-packed, character driven story of the highest quality. I dare you not to fall in love with Kayl’s feisty fearlessness, or Quen’s quintessentially British awkward charm.”
Craig Bookwyrm – FanFiAddict