Winterlong

Extract: "Winterlong" is a complex novel set in Washington DC after two apocalyptic events, and at the edge of a possible third. The story follows twins separated at birth. Wendy is an autistic teen, having spent most of her life in an institution named HEL, where she was neurologically enhanced, turning her into a powerful empathy. She has visions of a green-eyed boy named "Death". After escaping from HEL just before it's attacked, she ends up with an acting troupe, disguised as a boy, and hiding from the powerful new governor of the region. Her brother Raphael, an extraordinarily beautiful boy, grew up as a highly prized courtesan. After accidently killing someone and losing the favor of his patron, he hides among the lazars, wild, cannibalistic children who serve the governor. The monomaniacal governor believes the twins fulfill a prophecy which justifies his evil plans. Wendy and Raphael end up on a path of self-discovery that will either culminate in or subvert the third apocalypse...