**P.C. Cast Set to Launch New Fantasy Series with ‘By Breath’**
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Renowned author P.C. Cast is gearing up for the release of her latest novel, which marks the beginning of an exciting new series titled ‘Call of Dark Water’. The cover of ‘By Breath’, the first instalment, was exclusively shared with PEOPLE, and the novel is slated for publication on 2 March 2027 through Wednesday Books, a Macmillan Publishers imprint.
In this young adult fantasy tale, readers are introduced to Maeve, a young protagonist eager to relish one last summer at her great aunt’s stables in Loch Chon, located on the fringes of the Scottish Highlands. This charming location has been her sanctuary, but everything changes when Maeve stumbles upon a hidden secret that will alter her understanding of the loch and its enchanting surroundings forever.
As the narrative unfolds, Maeve discovers the truth behind the legends that have long captivated her upbringing, tales of mystical beings such as faeries, kelpies, and the elusive seelies. A brewing war among the fae courts sets the stage for an adventure where Maeve finds herself on a journey with an unexpected team, during which she also begins to uncover her own magical abilities.
P.C. Cast expressed her enthusiasm about ‘By Breath’ in an interview with PEOPLE, stating that writing the novel was a delightful experience. She highlighted the picturesque setting of Loch Chon, referring to it as “gorgeous”, and indicated that the characters are equally captivating. Maeve’s journey is supported by a diverse ensemble, including her grieving mother figure, a mystical friend, a wise great aunt, a plucky Scottie dog, as well as two fae princes and, of course, numerous kelpies.
The author remarked on the breathtaking nature of the adventure, noting that for her heroine, the experience is as literal as it is figurative. She also lauded the design of the book cover, calling it “exquisite”, and voiced her eagerness for readers to finally get their hands on the first instalment of what promises to be an enthralling fantasy series.
P.C. Cast, best known for her bestselling ‘House of Night’ series, boasts an impressive portfolio, with over 30 million copies of her works circulating globally. Among her recent publications is ‘Give Up the Night’, co-written with her daughter Kristin Cast, which hit the shelves in April 2025.
With the publication date for ‘By Breath’ now confirmed, fans of Cast’s work can pre-order the book from various retailers. As anticipation builds for the new series, the author remains committed to providing her audience with captivating stories steeped in magic and adventure.
As the realms of fantasy literature continue to expand, P.C. Cast’s foray into the enchanting world of the Scottish Highlands is set to resonate with both longtime fans and new readers alike. The intersection of folklore and personal discovery in ‘By Breath’ promises to deliver a compelling reading experience when it arrives next spring.