For fans ofThe Princess BrideandGideon the Ninth: a bloodylesbian revenge tale and political fantasy setin a glittering world transformed by industrial change andsimmering class warfare.

He who controls ichorite controls the world.

A malleable metal more durable than steel, ichorite is a toxic natural resource fueling national growth, and ambitious industrialist Yann Chauncey helms production of this miraculous ore. Working his foundry is an underclass of destitute workers, struggling to get better wages and proper medical treatment for those exposed to ichorites debilitating effects since birth.

One of those luster-touched victims, the child worker Marney Honeycutt, is picketing with her family and best friend when a bloody tragedy unfolds. Chaunceys strikebreakers open fire.

Only Marney survives.

A decade later, as Yann Chauncey searches for a suitable political marriage for his ward, Marney sees the perfect opportunity for revenge. With the help of radical bandits and their stolen wealth, she must masquerade as an aristocrat to win over the calculating Gossamer Chauncey and kill the man who slaughtered her family and friends. But she is not the only suitor after Lady Gossamers hand, leading her to play twisted elitist games of intrigue. And Marneys luster-touched connection to the mysterious resource and its foundry might put her in grave danger or save her from it.

H. A. Clarkes adult fantasy debut, writing as August Clarke,Metal From Heavenis a caustic, dizzying eco-fantasy that addresses labor politics, corporate greed, and the relentless grind of capitalism, while also embodying a visceral lesbian revenge quest against the people and institutions who control and oppress the helpless.

Ariotous phantasmagoria that epitomizes the phrase be gay, do crime.’Melinda Borie, Collection Development Librarian, Floyd County Library(New Albany, IN)