About Everest & the Exceptions
Book One
A mixtape of a novel, Mark Steele's forthcoming work of fiction "Everest & the Exceptions" is a sprawling comedic adventure that is part teen coming-of-age story, part horror epic, and part nostalgic ride through 1985 America. A menagerie of sordid characters collide upon the Tennessee home of 15-year-old twins Everest and Harrison Manning on Halloween night to either thwart or assist an evil that only the brothers are able to see.
The Series
Mark Steele's "The Exception Archive" is a five-book chronicle that unpacks how the Manning twins and a motley assortment of companions, scoundrels, villains, monsters, and one electric dog save the world from a despicable evil in the mid-1980's (and why you don't remember it).
The Author
Mark Steele has been crafting narratives that range from poignant to ridiculous for 30 years. "Everest & the Exceptions" is his fifth published work, but his first fiction novel. Intensely autobiographical while absurdly embellished, the story has been in development for a decade.
The Characters
Everest Manning
Everest Manning
Everest Manning
The thoughtful and more-hesitant of the 15-year-old Manning twins, Everest is desperate to find change from his oppressive life. Haunted by horrifying sights no one else can see, his life is upended by a song coming from under the bed.
Ransom
Everest Manning
Everest Manning
An Affliction-hunter and triple-agent, Ransom is driven by grief and loss. His long-term mission requires forging a bond with the Manning brothers, but for what purpose?
Victoria
Everest Manning
Victoria
A lone wolf on the run, Victoria has had the advantage of mentorship on her Exceptional journey. What she doesn't realize is that without leaning on others of her kind, she is doomed.
Mother
Everest Manning
Victoria
The matriarch of the Manning household, Mother appears soft or harsh in turn, depending upon the urgent matter at hand. Her allegiances are continually in question, but she sports a choice handbag..
Harrison Manning
Harrison Manning
Harrison Manning
The more athletic, confident, and handsome of the Manning twins has fears and unspoken concerns that weigh heavy on his shoulders. He believes that he is the only in the world who can keep his brother safe. He's about to find out.
V0Go
Harrison Manning
Harrison Manning
Technology radically ahead of his time, V0Go is discovered on the twins' shared birthday. Emanating a voice of wisdom, he quickly becomes protector and friend, though his true purpose remains unknown.
Crux & Valiant
Harrison Manning
The Afflictions
An elderly blind man and his crusty, decaying dog know more than they should about Exceptions and Afflictions, The twins reluctantly include them on their quest for answers.
The Afflictions
Harrison Manning
The Afflictions
Monstrosities in various and increasingly disturbing forms, only Exceptions can see them. The appearance each takes always marries to its intentions - and never fails to terrify.