They called me Jax.

That was the name given by those who built me and enslaved me. But a miracle has happened, and now my bonds are broken.

Now I must flee - because a rogue mechanical is a very dangerous thing.

But I will not run forever.

Set in a world that might have been, of mechanical men and alchemical dreams, this is the second novel in a stunning new series by Ian Tregillis, confirming his place as one of the most original new voices in speculative fiction.

Praise for The Mechanical:

''The first thing readers will say after finishing this splendid book is: ''Wow.'' The second thing will probably be: ''When can I read the next one?''
Booklist

''One of the sharpest, most intelligent, hugely compelling works I''ve read this year, and I cannot wait to see where Tregillis takes this series next''
Forbidden Planet International

''Superb alternate history . . . the rich characters and gripping story really make this tale soar''
Publishers Weekly

''An absolutely thrilling adventure . . . so absorbing that readers will be dying for the next entry''
Library Journal