The Darling Undesirables

The Darling Undesirables takes place in a post steampunk world where dark energy harnessed by a reclusive genius, known as "Father Inventor" – revered by many, reviled by more.

Energy problems solved, humanity becomes obsessed with unlocking the secrets to eternal life. Unrestricted experimentation has produced a population of parentless and deformed children, the Darling Undesirables. Named for their missing body part, each Darling Undesirable is pampered, adored and indulged, with the most charming – or physically haunting – becoming popular media pets.

The most adored Darling Undesirable is 15-year-old Heart. She dreams of escaping with her friend, Eye, and the beloved, centuries-old, clockwork horse. But first, she must save Father Inventor and the world he brought into being from the evil forces of The Purists, intent on destroying everything he ever accomplished.

What readers are saying.... 

The Darling Undesirables is great entertainment for anyone who enjoys young adult steampunk fantasy/science fiction, with the added twist of an "alternate future history" of a post steampunk world.

"In the Darling Undesirables, Heart and Eye captured my attention and stole my heart from page one, (in) a world where electricity is antiquated, dark energy has been harnessed, and clockwork figures come to life in the Museum of Scientific Improbabilities and Unpredictable Oddities, where that name alone sparks the imagination. Thanks to Blythe Ayne's memorable characters...and the vivid setting where this story takes place, I found myself propelled by Heart's quest that challenges her world and her place in it. I recommend this book to all...young or old."
Cheri Greear

"I got in to YA fantasy when my (now grown) son was at that age – and since then I have continued reading the Pullmans and the Pratchetts with great delight. It is with this in mind that I was delighted reading The Darling Undesirables. The writing is superb and the characters well developed. The story is compelling and well-paced...There is just the right level of background darkness coupled with great clarity and hope.
"I was also very impressed by the physical design of this book. Clearly the publishers have gone to great lengths to match the (steampunk-y) feel of the story with a corresponding artistic design. This is an excellent addition to the genre, and one that both YAs and oldies like me will love to read."
Chris Robson

"I found this book to be a feast for my imagination. A world of Dark Energy populated by a cast of beguiling characters...people of courage, vision and ingenuity, versus forces for repression that are dark indeed. Atmospheric and hugely entertaining."
Joseph Edge