The Search for the Crimson Lady

Sci-fi book cover of “The Search for the Crimson Lady” by Greta van der Rol, showing a woman in a red gown and a spaceship in space

She’s a legend and a mystery

The Search for the Crimson Lady is a fast- paced, high-stakes space opera with romance woven through the action.

About the book

One hundred years ago the pirate ship Crimson Lady terrorized the space lanes, then she disappeared without a trace, leaving behind nothing but tall tales and legends. Until Tara Wyndham finds an artefact from the lost ship

Rys Kovas made a mistake when he left Fleet to take over his uncle’s tourist business. He jumps at the chance to hire out his luxury yacht to go hunting for a ghost ship with the lovely Tara and her grandfather. But murder, sabotage, and accidents mar their journey.  It’s clear somebody doesn’t want them following the trail. As the danger ramps up Rys suspects there’s more to the mystery of the Crimson Lady than a long-lost spacefarer’s story.

Can Rys, Tara, and her indomitable grandfather unravel the mystery and escape with their lives?

This is a brand new story with new characters, although there is a cameo appearance from Admiral Ul-Mellor. It’s a mystery and a puzzle with a romance thrown in.

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FAQ

Genre and details

  • Space opera with science fiction romance elements
  • High stakes action and adventure
  • A hunt for the origin of an artefact
  • A slow burn romance

Is this the first book in the series
It is a stand-alone novel

Who are the Yrmaks
The Yrmaks are an alien species with its own culture and traditions. They tend to be warlike, fighting amongst themselves. They are often pirates and slavers. Read more here.

Is there romance?
Yes. Rys and Tara’s relationship blossoms over time.

Is there sex
Yes, but the scenes are non-specific and focused on emotion and character.

Is this hard science fiction
The science is realistic but the story focuses on character, action, and political tension. Readers who enjoy smart SF with heart tend to settle in quickly.

What is the background of the book
It was influenced by the story of the Flying Dutchman. Read more here.

What themes does the book explore?
Power. Courage. Piracy. Politics

What formats is it available in
Ebook. Audiobook status depends on future plans.

Tropes and elements

  • High-stakes space conflict
  • Mystery
  • Treachery
  • Slow burn romance

Reader praise

“Well-developed characters, space pirates, adventure, mystery, and most of all romance. Very well done!”

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