A few brief words of warning. This is a fantasy, except there is no magic. What science there is, at least some of it isn't here yet, maybe never will be. There's some foul language – sorry but it felt like it belonged – and some erotic scenes – ditto, although not too explicit. There's also a degree of peril in there, but all in all it is a fantasy and in the best tradition of such tales there is (spoiler alert) a happily ever after.

I wouldn't suggest you read it if you want realism, although I hope I haven't strayed too far into the impossible. Do read it if you'd like to get away from real life for a while.