M.A. Carrick Books In Order

Publication Order of Rook & Rose Books

Publication Order of The Sea Beyond Books

About M.A. Carrick

M.A. Carrick is a shared writing name used by two authors, Alyc Helms and Marie Brennan. Brennan wrote the well-known Memoirs of Lady Trent series, while Helms created The Adventures of Mr. Mystic. Together, they combine their skills to craft imaginative stories. Their work stands out for its lively characters and gripping plots.

Readers enjoy their books because the protagonists feel real and relatable. The authors have a knack for making even small details matter in the bigger story. Their narratives move quickly but never feel rushed. The worlds they build are rich without being confusing.

Brennan and Helms excel at blending action, emotion, and clever storytelling. Their writing keeps people hooked from start to finish. Whether writing solo or together, they know how to entertain. Fans of fantasy will find plenty to like in their collaborative work.

Their stories captivate readers across the globe by blending rich storytelling with personal authenticity. Brennan and Helms write what excites them, and that passion comes through in every page. Their tales feel fresh yet familiar, striking a balance that appeals to a wide audience. Readers keep returning because the books are fun, smart, and full of heart.

The duo crafts narratives that stay true to their creative vision while still delivering crowd-pleasing adventures. They don’t chase trends, instead, they focus on what makes their worlds and characters compelling. This genuine approach makes their work stand out in the fantasy genre. Fans appreciate that their stories feel original rather than recycled.

Whether through clever twists, dynamic heroes, or immersive settings, Brennan and Helms know how to keep readers engaged. Their writing never loses sight of entertainment, but it also has depth. They prove that stories can be thrilling and meaningful at the same time. That’s why their books leave a lasting impression.

M.A. Carrick’s future looks bright, with more stories on the way. Brennan and Helms continue to write both together and separately, promising fresh adventures for fans. Their creativity shows no signs of slowing down, and readers can expect more of what they love; vibrant characters, clever plots, and immersive worlds. There’s plenty to look forward to from this talented duo.

Early and Personal Life

Helms and Brennan, who write together as M.A. Carrick, both grew up with a love for stories. Like many fantasy authors, they were drawn to books that sparked their imaginations early on. Over time, that passion turned into writing their own tales, blending creativity with their academic interests.

Their friendship began in 2000 during an archaeological dig in Wales and Ireland, including time in Carrickmacross; the namesake for their pen name. Shared experiences in anthropology, gaming, and storytelling strengthened their bond. These influences later shaped their collaborative work, giving their stories depth and authenticity.

Now based in the San Francisco Bay Area, they continue to write both together and separately. Brennan’s Memoirs of Lady Trent and Helms’ The Adventures of Mr. Mystic showcase their individual strengths. As M.A. Carrick, they combine their talents to create engaging fantasy worlds that resonate with readers.

Writing Career

With both Brennan and Helms writing together as M.A. Carrick, they launched their collaborative fantasy career with The Mask of Mirrors in 2021, the first book in their Rook & Rose series. The sequel, The Liar’s Knot,’ followed later that same year, expanding their intricate world of magic and intrigue. They concluded the trilogy in 2023 with Labyrinth’s Heart, delivering a satisfying finale to their acclaimed story.

The Rook & Rose series showcases their skill for weaving complex plots and vivid characters, earning praise from fantasy readers. While their joint work under the M.A. Carrick name is still growing, both authors continue to write individually as well. With more stories ahead, their writing careers remain dynamic and full of potential.

The Mask of Mirrors

The Mask of Mirrors by M.A. Carrick was published on January 21, 2021, by Orbit Books. It is the first installment in the high-fantasy Rook & Rose trilogy. The novel introduced readers to the collaborative work of Helms, along with Brennan under their shared pen name.

Ren, a skilled con artist, arrives in the dazzling city of Nadežra with a plan to swindle her way into a noble family for wealth and security. Once inside House Traementis, she discovers her deception is just one of many secrets swirling among the elite. As dark magic spreads through the City of Dreams, the rivalries of the aristocracy and threats from the slums grow increasingly dangerous. Caught in the middle, Ren finds herself at the center of a web of lies and hidden power.

Readers who enjoy clever schemes and rich worldbuilding will find The Mask of Mirrors thoroughly engaging. The protagonist’s daring cons and the layered intrigues of Nadežra create a gripping, fast-paced story. Fans of intricate fantasy with sharp characters will appreciate the twists and immersive setting. It’s a rewarding start to a promising trilogy.

The Liar’s Knot

The Liar’s Knot by M.A. Carrick was published on December 9, 2021, by Orbit Books. It serves as the second installment in the Rook & Rose trilogy, continuing the collaborative work of Brennan and Helms. The novel further expands the high-fantasy world introduced in The Mask of Mirrors.

Nadežra’s fragile peace hangs by a thread after House Indestor’s fall, yet shadows still lurk in both slums and opulent estates. Derossi Vargo guards his hard-won noble standing with hidden ruthlessness, while Grey Serrado struggles to shield the city’s downtrodden from growing dangers. Ren, trapped between her false noble identity and true roots, uses her pattern-reading gift to navigate a tightening web of deception. As corruption spreads, all three must confront truths that mere blades cannot sever.

Fans of intricate political fantasy will find The Liar’s Knot delivers even richer intrigue than its predecessor. The deepening character arcs of Vargo, Grey and Ren create compelling tension as their stories intertwine. M.A. Carrick masterfully expands Nadežra’s dangerous underworld and glittering elite circles. This middle chapter satisfyingly escalates the trilogy’s stakes while leaving readers eager for the conclusion.