The Improvisers

For fans of Nghi Vo, P. Djl Clark, and Alix E. Harrow: a new stand-alone set in the world of the critically acclaimed Murder and Magic series during Prohibition. The Improvisers is the tale of Velma, a barnstorming pilot and former magic bootlegger, who pursues dangerous enchanted items and a mystery that crosses the US and cuts through timeright to the heart of her familys past and present. Velma Frye is many things. A pilot, a former bootlegger, a well-seasoned traveler, a jazz pianistand a wielder of celestial magic. Shes also a member of the mystical Rhodes family as well as an investigator for arcane oddities for a magic rights organization, dealing with both simple and complicated cases. And when a pocket watch instigates a magical brawl after one of her flight shows, things become very complicated. In 1930s America, enchanted items are highly valuable, especially in the waning days of the magical Prohibition. As Velma digs deeper, she discovers the watch is part of a collection of dangerous artifacts manipulating people across the countryand in some cases, leading to their deaths. Something about all this is tickling Velmas memories, and the more she discovers, the more these seemingly isolated incidents feel as if theyre building to something apocalyptic. Connecting the dots isnt easy, though, and further complicating her work is journalist Dillon Harris. He hounds her steps, and while not actively sabotaging her investigation, he also clearly knows more than he lets on. Whether its his presence that she finds so vexing or his easygoing charm, thats a mystery she isnt interested in solving. Because someone is out there seeding cursed objects with the intent on wreaking havoc, and Velma will have to use every trick in her tool kit, including some well-placed magical improvisation, to win the day. Focusing on a new generation of the Rhodes family, The Improvisers brims with charming magic, intriguing mystery, and high-flying adventure seeking new heights.