The Sea of the Vanities (The Companion Novels of Jonas Celwyn Book 1) by Lou Kemp | Book Review
Intro:
“The Sea of the Vanities,” the first book in “The Companion Novels of Jonas Celwyn” series, takes readers on a thrilling journey through treacherous waters, blending supernatural elements with a gripping sea adventure set in the 19th century. Lou Kemp weaves a tale that grips readers from the first page and keeps them on the edge of their seats until the very end. (Read the full review below.)
Book Details
The Sea of the Vanities by Lou Kemp
Series: The Companion Novels of Jonas Celwyn #1
Published by 4 Horsemen Publications on June 21, 2023
Genres: Alternate History, Historical Fantasy
Format: eBook, Hardcover, Paperback
Pages: 296
The ocean is vast and deep. What lurks beneath can tear boats asunder.
Richard Shaw, an insurance investigator from Lloyds of London, arrives in Rio de Janeiro in 1851. He is there to discover why so many of the great sailing ships of the world are disappearing in the south Atlantic, never making it to or from the Pacific Ocean.
From each side of the continent, two ships set sail: one helmed by Captain Peech to hunt for treasure and the other ferrying passengers like Cassandra Coulter, who only hopes for safe passage.
Both ships encounter murder and supernatural forces. When the survivors unwillingly rendezvous in Cape Horn, they run straight into Richard Shaw.
The Sea of the Vanities is a supernatural sea adventure that answers the question: should death be feared? Or is it a mercy?
Source: Booksprout
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Purchase Links for The Sea of the Vanities
Amazon-OneLink for all countries BookShop/IndieBound
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My thoughts on The Sea of the Vanities
“The Sea of the Vanities,” the first book in “The Companion Novels of Jonas Celwyn” series, takes readers on a thrilling journey through treacherous waters, blending supernatural elements with a gripping sea adventure set in the 19th century. Lou Kemp weaves a tale that grips readers from the first page and keeps them on the edge of their seats until the very end.
The story revolves around Richard Shaw, an insurance investigator from Lloyds of London, who arrives in Rio de Janeiro in 1851 to uncover the mysterious disappearances of numerous sailing ships in the South Atlantic. As he delves into the investigation, he encounters a world where superstitions, legends, and dangers from the deep come to life.
Kemp’s storytelling skill shines through the vivid portrayal of the vast and ominous ocean, a world where lurking beneath the waves are untold horrors capable of tearing ships asunder. The maritime setting adds a sense of authenticity to the narrative, immersing readers in the perilous lives of sailors and the hardships they face on the high seas.
Two ships, each with its own mission, become central to the plot. One is captained by the enigmatic Captain Peech, on a quest for treasure, while the other carries passengers like Cassandra Coulter, a woman hoping for nothing more than a safe voyage. As both ships encounter murder and unexplained supernatural occurrences, the tension builds, leaving readers questioning the very fabric of reality.
The character development in “The Sea of the Vanities” is commendable, with each individual possessing depth and complexity that draws readers into their respective arcs. With his investigative prowess and tenacity, Richard Shaw becomes an engaging protagonist, while the enigmatic Captain Peech and the resilient Cassandra Coulter add intrigue and unpredictability to the story.
As the survivors of the two ill-fated ships unexpectedly rendezvous in Cape Horn, the story reaches a crescendo of suspense and intrigue. The interweaving of the various characters’ paths adds an element of surprise as secrets and revelations come to light.
Lou Kemp’s prose is descriptive and evocative, vividly depicting the harsh and awe-inspiring maritime world. The author’s ability to blend supernatural elements seamlessly into the historical setting enhances the overall experience, creating a captivating tale that leaves readers pondering profound questions about mortality, fear, and the nature of mercy.
In conclusion, “The Sea of the Vanities” is a riveting supernatural sea adventure that masterfully combines history, mystery, and the paranormal. Lou Kemp’s intricate storytelling and well-crafted characters will undoubtedly leave readers eagerly anticipating the next installment in “The Companion Novels of Jonas Celwyn” series. If you enjoy maritime adventures with a touch of the supernatural, this book is a must-read.
I may have received a copy of the book from the author, publisher, or tour company. Otherwise, it is from my personal library or Kindle Unlimited.
This review is my honest, unbiased opinion.
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I love to read books through my Amazon Kindle Unlimited subscription.
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About Lou Kemp
From Lou Kemp:
Early work was horror and suspense, later work morphed into a combination of magical realism, mystery, and adventure painted with a horrific element as needed.
I’m one of those writers who doesn’t plan ahead, no outlines, no clue, sometimes write myself into a corner. Atmospheric music in the background helps entice the moodier muse that must be present. Black by Pearl Jam is one that really helps.
Chronological milestones:
1988-1993
Short stories in small presses Crossroads, Eldritch Tales, Nightmares, Heliocentric Net, Cabal Asylum, Black October, and Pirate Writings.
1994
Santa Barbara Writers Conference SF/Fantasy/Horror award.
2000-2003
Wrote some really crappy books.
2002
Barnes and Noble anthology 365 Scary Stories
2003-2004
Ghost story anthologies Monsters From Memphis and More Monsters From Memphis. Possible to find old copies on Amazon.
2003
Began work on Sea of the Vanities.
2005
Honorable mention from Ellen Datlow in The Years Best Fantasy and Horror for one of my short stories.
2009
Anthology story Sherlock’s Opera, Seattle Noir edited by Curt Colbert, Akashic Books. Available through Amazon or Barnes and Noble online.
May 1, 2009
2009 The anthology story Sherlock’s Opera appeared in Seattle Noir, edited by Curt Colbert, Akashic Books. Available through Amazon or Barnes and Noble online. Booklist published a favorable review of my contribution to the anthology.
2010 My story, In Memory of the Sibylline, was accepted into the best-selling MWA anthology Crimes by Moonlight, edited by Charlaine Harris. The immortal magician Celwyn makes his first appearance in print.
2018 The story, The Violins Played before Junstan is published in the MWA anthology Odd Partners, edited by Anne Perry. The Celwyn series begins.
Book 1, The Violins Played before Junstan reissued with the publisher, the 4 Horsemen on 10-17-22. The 4 Horsemen will publish the remaining books in the series beginning with Music Shall Untune the Sky, The Raven and the Pig, The Pirate Danced, and the Automat Died.
The companion book, Farm Hall continues the story of Pelaez, another immortal magician, and Celwyn's brother will also be available.
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Purchase The Sea of the Vanities online from your local bookstore.
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Easy Amazon Links
Amazon-OneLink for all countries
If the above link does not take you to your country, here are a few more:
Please send me a note if your country isn’t listed and you would like to purchase using my links. Using my link does not change the price you pay. Amazon pays me a minimal amount out of their share.
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More reviews from this series:
The Violins Played Before Junstan (The Celwyn Series Book 1)
Music Shall Untune the Sky (the Celwyn Series Book 2)
The Raven and the Pig (The Celwyn Series Book 3)
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Gina, your kind words are appreciated. I loved writing this book, and hope everyone enjoys reading it.