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The Strains of Malice
Book one of the gripping new historical fantasy series, The Nessemiah.
Is anywhere on Thera safe from Nessemi? Or the hell that lies beyond?
“I’m afraid there are good and bad everywhere, Emilya. It’s a fact of life that wherever you look, there are strains of malice.”
Fifteen-year-old baker’s daughter, Emilya Luca, is in serious trouble with the Glennadian Crown. Her to prevent a small dog from being torn apart by hounds belonging to the callous Prince Magnus. Having been rescued by former naval captain, Jake Oscom, the unlikely pair become fugitives, hunted across Glennad – initially for cruel sport but latterly after Oscom is framed for a heinous crime committed by Magnus himself.
Elsewhere, in a world with unusual geographical quirks and subtle energy lines, hardships endure for a close-knit community of miners and unimaginable foul play befalls a Glennadian princess – but these trials pale into insignificance compared to what northern astronomers have just discovered. Four hundred leagues south, in the ancient city of Thera, the cruel eyes of Calidius Antoninus Dominius have seen the same thing – but to him it merely expedites his imperial ambitions and presents a justified opportunity to brutally murder thousands of his subjects.
‘This is an authentic and well developed epic fantasy world with lots of heroes to root for and villains to dislike. It reminds me of A Song of Ice and Fire. Prince Magnus certainly gives Joffrey a run for his money!’ LoveReading
‘Beardmore is a fantastic storyteller with a penchant for meticulous details. He crafts a world so humanistically flawed and tremendously intriguing.’ onlinebookclub.org
Is anywhere on Thera safe from Nessemi? Or the hell that lies beyond?
“I’m afraid there are good and bad everywhere, Emilya. It’s a fact of life that wherever you look, there are strains of malice.”
Fifteen-year-old baker’s daughter, Emilya Luca, is in serious trouble with the Glennadian Crown. Her to prevent a small dog from being torn apart by hounds belonging to the callous Prince Magnus. Having been rescued by former naval captain, Jake Oscom, the unlikely pair become fugitives, hunted across Glennad – initially for cruel sport but latterly after Oscom is framed for a heinous crime committed by Magnus himself.
Elsewhere, in a world with unusual geographical quirks and subtle energy lines, hardships endure for a close-knit community of miners and unimaginable foul play befalls a Glennadian princess – but these trials pale into insignificance compared to what northern astronomers have just discovered. Four hundred leagues south, in the ancient city of Thera, the cruel eyes of Calidius Antoninus Dominius have seen the same thing – but to him it merely expedites his imperial ambitions and presents a justified opportunity to brutally murder thousands of his subjects.
‘This is an authentic and well developed epic fantasy world with lots of heroes to root for and villains to dislike. It reminds me of A Song of Ice and Fire. Prince Magnus certainly gives Joffrey a run for his money!’ LoveReading
‘Beardmore is a fantastic storyteller with a penchant for meticulous details. He crafts a world so humanistically flawed and tremendously intriguing.’ onlinebookclub.org
416 pages, Paperback
Published February 24, 2025
1 person is currently reading
69 people want to read
About the author
Andrew Beardmore
11 books13 followersFor many years I have been a regular author of non-fiction with a leading UK publisher. My books largely focus on national and local English history.
Then in 2023, I got signed for my first fiction – epic fantasy! This may seem an odd crossover, but my fantasy world of Thera bears many similarities to our world during British Regency times and Roman empire times – two cultures that are destined to clash with brutal consequences!
You can find me online at:
Website: https://andybeardmore.com
Email: andybeardmore@virginmedia.com
Then in 2023, I got signed for my first fiction – epic fantasy! This may seem an odd crossover, but my fantasy world of Thera bears many similarities to our world during British Regency times and Roman empire times – two cultures that are destined to clash with brutal consequences!
You can find me online at:
Website: https://andybeardmore.com
Email: andybeardmore@virginmedia.com
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Displaying 1 - 9 of 9 reviews
December 11, 2025
The Strains of Malice surprised me with how quickly it pulled me into its world. I liked the blend of gritty realism and sweeping fantasy, and the opening chase with Emilya and Jake gave the story a strong emotional anchor. The worldbuilding is dense but rewarding, and once the characters settle in, the different storylines feel rich and connected in ways that make you want to keep going. Prince Magnus is the kind of villain you love to hate, and the miners’ chapters add a lot more heart than I expected. It reminded me a bit of early A Song of Ice and Fire, only more grounded in compassion and small human choices. A solid, intriguing start to a much bigger story.
February 22, 2023
The foundation of a well-built epic fantasy series.
‘The Strains of Malice: Part 1: Spite’ by Andrew Beardmore is the first in a five book series that follows the people of Thera. A great threat is coming, but amongst this are the trials and tribulations of Emperors, Princes, Princesses and men. This first book is a solid foundation that introduces you to the different storylines the series will follow, from Emilya and Jake’s run from the vindictive and sinister Pince Magnus to Coal Cutters Davy and Will’s life working in the mines. As it is the first book in the series, we do not yet know if, when or how the stories of these 10 different characters will cross.
The book begins with some in depth world building. You don’t just get a map at the start of this book but information about temperatures and climates across Thera, the planetary system and the light, solar cycles and seasons. This sets the tone for the rest of the book, and demonstrates the time and dedication put into creating a very believable world. Because of the order that the key characters in this series are introduced, I find I am more drawn to some stories than others. As we learn more about Emilya, Jake and Alicya for example, I feel I have more of a connection to them and want to see where their stories lead. For the characters such as Draxaelen, a former general now enslaved and Princess Madeleina, being trapped into a marriage of political value, although we haven’t learned too much about them yet, I am curious to see where their stories lead.
This is an authentic and well developed epic fantasy world with lots of heroes to root for and villains to dislike. I think this may be of interest for fans of ‘The Song of Ice and Fire’ Books in terms of format and genre, and Prince Magnus certainly seems to give Joffrey a run for his money. The overarching feeling this book left me with is curiosity about what is to come and how the different storylines will tie together. However, I think that this is a strong start for the rest of the series.
‘The Strains of Malice: Part 1: Spite’ by Andrew Beardmore is the first in a five book series that follows the people of Thera. A great threat is coming, but amongst this are the trials and tribulations of Emperors, Princes, Princesses and men. This first book is a solid foundation that introduces you to the different storylines the series will follow, from Emilya and Jake’s run from the vindictive and sinister Pince Magnus to Coal Cutters Davy and Will’s life working in the mines. As it is the first book in the series, we do not yet know if, when or how the stories of these 10 different characters will cross.
The book begins with some in depth world building. You don’t just get a map at the start of this book but information about temperatures and climates across Thera, the planetary system and the light, solar cycles and seasons. This sets the tone for the rest of the book, and demonstrates the time and dedication put into creating a very believable world. Because of the order that the key characters in this series are introduced, I find I am more drawn to some stories than others. As we learn more about Emilya, Jake and Alicya for example, I feel I have more of a connection to them and want to see where their stories lead. For the characters such as Draxaelen, a former general now enslaved and Princess Madeleina, being trapped into a marriage of political value, although we haven’t learned too much about them yet, I am curious to see where their stories lead.
This is an authentic and well developed epic fantasy world with lots of heroes to root for and villains to dislike. I think this may be of interest for fans of ‘The Song of Ice and Fire’ Books in terms of format and genre, and Prince Magnus certainly seems to give Joffrey a run for his money. The overarching feeling this book left me with is curiosity about what is to come and how the different storylines will tie together. However, I think that this is a strong start for the rest of the series.
July 11, 2025
A multifaceted opening to a fantasy series that’s epic in scope.
The Strains of Malice is the first in a detailed four book epic fantasy set in the world of Thera. The book is front loaded with all the world building information you’d need, with graphs and maps to explain time and geography as well as a prologue that offers historical context to the story as well as an explanation of the Shield of Crenac that separates the two hemispheres. This may seem daunting at first but it sets the stage so that when the story begins you’re equipped with all the knowledge needed and can focus on the characters.
Following a broad cast of characters from vicious rulers to commoners on the run and miners at work the land of Thera is then brought to life even more by its people. In this first book we get to know some characters more than others and as with any multi-perspective novel, you have your favourite storylines that you can't wait to come round to again. To name just a few I loved Emilya, Jake and Alicya, the bond that forms between them as they run from Prince Magnus, my heart broke during miner Davy’s storyline and I’m intrigued by Draxaelen, a recently enslaved former general of which we are yet to learn much more about. If I had to describe this book in a word it would have to be: detail. There’s interpersonal conflicts and obstacles for the characters to face that I have happily spent pages immersing myself in and could work through talking about one by one, but there’s also an approaching threat that could possibly pale all of those into insignificance. And yet, despite the broad scope of this novel, nothing feels rushed. You don’t feel like you’re zooming through one character’s experience to get to the next one. The pacing throughout is perfect for letting you become engrossed with the story and compelling enough for you to keep turning the pages. This is a brilliant start to an intricate series and I’m eager to see what follows.
The Strains of Malice is the first in a detailed four book epic fantasy set in the world of Thera. The book is front loaded with all the world building information you’d need, with graphs and maps to explain time and geography as well as a prologue that offers historical context to the story as well as an explanation of the Shield of Crenac that separates the two hemispheres. This may seem daunting at first but it sets the stage so that when the story begins you’re equipped with all the knowledge needed and can focus on the characters.
Following a broad cast of characters from vicious rulers to commoners on the run and miners at work the land of Thera is then brought to life even more by its people. In this first book we get to know some characters more than others and as with any multi-perspective novel, you have your favourite storylines that you can't wait to come round to again. To name just a few I loved Emilya, Jake and Alicya, the bond that forms between them as they run from Prince Magnus, my heart broke during miner Davy’s storyline and I’m intrigued by Draxaelen, a recently enslaved former general of which we are yet to learn much more about. If I had to describe this book in a word it would have to be: detail. There’s interpersonal conflicts and obstacles for the characters to face that I have happily spent pages immersing myself in and could work through talking about one by one, but there’s also an approaching threat that could possibly pale all of those into insignificance. And yet, despite the broad scope of this novel, nothing feels rushed. You don’t feel like you’re zooming through one character’s experience to get to the next one. The pacing throughout is perfect for letting you become engrossed with the story and compelling enough for you to keep turning the pages. This is a brilliant start to an intricate series and I’m eager to see what follows.
February 12, 2026
Andrew Beardmore’s “The Strains of Malice” is a sweeping and sophisticated debut to ‘The Nessemiah’ series—a historical fantasy that merges human frailty, political intrigue, and cosmic mystery into one masterfully interwoven tale. Rich in atmosphere and brimming with moral complexity, this first installment lays the groundwork for what promises to be an epic saga of destiny and defiance.
At the heart of the story is Emilya Luca, a fifteen-year-old baker’s daughter whose simple act of compassion—saving a small dog from the cruelty of Prince Magnus—sets off a chain of life-altering events. Her bravery turns her into a fugitive, hunted by a kingdom that values pride and power over innocence. She is joined by Jake Oscom, a former naval captain whose own sense of justice leads him to protect Emilya, only to be ensnared in a web of deceit when he is falsely accused of the prince’s crime. Their flight across Glennad unfolds as both a thrilling chase and a journey of moral awakening.
Beardmore’s storytelling shines in his ability to balance the personal and the epic. While Emilya and Oscom’s struggle for survival offers moments of tension, warmth, and humanity, the larger world of Thera hums with dark energy and grand designs. The writing is immersive and intelligent, steeped in vivid imagery and emotional realism. His worldbuilding is meticulous, revealing a realm both familiar and alien—one where ancient science, moral corruption, and celestial mysteries intertwine.
What makes “The Strains of Malice” truly compelling is its moral depth. The title itself becomes a quiet refrain through the narrative, reminding readers that evil isn’t confined to tyrants and empires—it lurks in the small cruelties, the compromises, and the fear that drives ordinary people to silence.
At the heart of the story is Emilya Luca, a fifteen-year-old baker’s daughter whose simple act of compassion—saving a small dog from the cruelty of Prince Magnus—sets off a chain of life-altering events. Her bravery turns her into a fugitive, hunted by a kingdom that values pride and power over innocence. She is joined by Jake Oscom, a former naval captain whose own sense of justice leads him to protect Emilya, only to be ensnared in a web of deceit when he is falsely accused of the prince’s crime. Their flight across Glennad unfolds as both a thrilling chase and a journey of moral awakening.
Beardmore’s storytelling shines in his ability to balance the personal and the epic. While Emilya and Oscom’s struggle for survival offers moments of tension, warmth, and humanity, the larger world of Thera hums with dark energy and grand designs. The writing is immersive and intelligent, steeped in vivid imagery and emotional realism. His worldbuilding is meticulous, revealing a realm both familiar and alien—one where ancient science, moral corruption, and celestial mysteries intertwine.
What makes “The Strains of Malice” truly compelling is its moral depth. The title itself becomes a quiet refrain through the narrative, reminding readers that evil isn’t confined to tyrants and empires—it lurks in the small cruelties, the compromises, and the fear that drives ordinary people to silence.
February 12, 2026
The Strains of Malice by Andrew Beardmore is the opening novel in The Nessemiah, a dark historical fantasy set in a world where cruelty and ambition shape destiny. Fifteen year old Emilya Luca draws the wrath of the Glennadian Crown after standing up to the sadistic Prince Magnus. Saved by former naval captain Jake Oscom, she becomes a fugitive alongside him when Magnus frames Oscom for a brutal crime.
As they flee across Glennad, the story expands to reveal unrest across the land, suffering communities, royal corruption, and ominous discoveries in the north that signal something far worse is approaching. In the ancient city of Thera, a ruthless ruler sees chaos as an opportunity to strengthen his power, no matter the cost in human lives.
Rich in atmosphere and moral tension, The Strains of Malice delivers a grounded epic fantasy filled with flawed heroes, dangerous villains, and a growing sense of inevitable conflict.
As they flee across Glennad, the story expands to reveal unrest across the land, suffering communities, royal corruption, and ominous discoveries in the north that signal something far worse is approaching. In the ancient city of Thera, a ruthless ruler sees chaos as an opportunity to strengthen his power, no matter the cost in human lives.
Rich in atmosphere and moral tension, The Strains of Malice delivers a grounded epic fantasy filled with flawed heroes, dangerous villains, and a growing sense of inevitable conflict.
December 15, 2025
This book delivers a richly imagined fantasy world filled with danger, moral conflict, and rising stakes. The story balances personal struggles with larger political and cosmic threats, making the journey feel both intimate and epic. The characters are easy to care about, especially as they’re forced into impossible choices while powerful villains manipulate events from the shadows. The world-building is detailed without being overwhelming, and the sense of looming danger keeps the tension high throughout. Overall, it’s a gripping and well-crafted beginning that sets the stage for a darker, deeper story to unfold in the next installment.
January 27, 2026
The novel opens with an extensive introduction to its fictional world, complete with maps, calendars, a solar system chart, climate details, and a lengthy prologue. This groundwork establishes a rich setting, though it takes some time for the actual story to find its rhythm. The narrative is dense and detail-oriented, in a world where nearly everything seems to carry significance.
The structure follows six separate storylines, each centered on a different character. As their paths gradually intersect, the broader narrative begins to take shape.
In the end, this is a strong, character-driven fantasy novel that rewards patient readers willing to immerse themselves in its intricate world.
The structure follows six separate storylines, each centered on a different character. As their paths gradually intersect, the broader narrative begins to take shape.
In the end, this is a strong, character-driven fantasy novel that rewards patient readers willing to immerse themselves in its intricate world.
November 20, 2025
This book The Strains of Malice has all the ingredients required for the start of an epic series - The Nessemiah.
The author has detailed his collection of characters so precisely, which stimulates intrigue into their future fate. Readers are taken on a fantastic journey, aided by the detailed descriptions of multiple locations, that you feel compelled to read on to complete the journey and for the eventual finale to be revealed.
Book 2 is a continuation of this fast paced intriguing series. I cannot wait for books 3 and 4!
The author has detailed his collection of characters so precisely, which stimulates intrigue into their future fate. Readers are taken on a fantastic journey, aided by the detailed descriptions of multiple locations, that you feel compelled to read on to complete the journey and for the eventual finale to be revealed.
Book 2 is a continuation of this fast paced intriguing series. I cannot wait for books 3 and 4!
February 20, 2026
The Strains of Malice is a captivating historical fantasy that draws you into a vivid, intricately imagined world filled with complex, believable characters. Emilya and her companions navigate danger, intrigue, and difficult decisions, while the ruthless Prince Magnus is a villain you can’t help but despise. Rich in adventure, emotion, and suspense, this book offers detailed worldbuilding that rewards readers who dive in, making it an exciting and compelling start to a series you won’t want to put down.
Displaying 1 - 9 of 9 reviews