Next month sees Orbit’s publication of Heart of the Mirage by Glenda Larke. Born and raised in the Australian outback, Glenda has travelled the world and has spent the last 30 years living in Malaysia. Passionate and down-to-earth, she has dedicated her life to conservation and actively supports other writers.

Glenda’s writing has won acclaim from many of her peers. Kate Elliott writes: “I adore the rich landscapes, the complicated and believable characters who deal with life as real people not as caricatures, and the storylines that join thoughtful explorations of human nature with exciting, robust adventure. I will read anything she writes.” Russell Kirkpatrick describes her work as “powerful, down to earth and filled with the sharpness of the true storyteller”. Finally, Karen Miller says: “Words just don’t do her justice, really . . . If you haven’t read Glenda’s wonderful fantasy novels, you’re missing out on a treat.”

You can sample the first chapter of Heart of the Mirage here.