Book excerpt: Magic. Mystery. Rebellion. In the shadowy corners of Victorian London, William Blackwood, a dedicated investigator, and Olivia Hawthorn, a resilient empath, face an unprecedented threat. Together, they delve into a web of mysterious empath incidents, each more perilous than the last. As the gas-lit streets whisper secrets, they uncover a sinister plot to seize the powerful Heart of Empathy. With the city’s fate hanging in the balance, William and Olivia navigate through dark magic and complex alliances. Their journey leads them to confront Ethan Bates, a manipulative leader whose ambitions threaten to unravel the very fabric of time. Will their combined powers of magic, courage, and empathy be enough to save London, or will the city succumb to chaos? 'The Near Voice of Empathy' is the thrilling second novel in Johan Sparr's StainedSteam Saga. If you crave atmospheric, dark, and mystical tales, then you'll love Johan Sparr's gripping adventure. Uncover the secrets of empathy today.