I love steampunk and was excited at the idea of exploring China’s Qing Dynasty. In Gunpowder Alchemy, the first in the Gunpowder Chronicles, Jeannie Lin introduces a strong heroine and captivating storyline filled with steampunk goodness, adventure and a slow-building romance.
I was a little nervous starting Sky Pirates the third book in Liesel Schwarz’s Chronicles of Light and Shadow. The second book, A Clockwork Heart, left me frustrated, but wow Sky Pirates brought back all of the elements I loved in A Conspiracy of Alchemists. Action packed, with lovable characters this steampunk has us traveling the world, and engaging in battles. The heroine Elle Chance is fantastic. She is kick-ass and determined. I don’t recommend crossing her.
In the Janus Affair, we once again join the duo of Eliza Braun and Wellington Books, officers at the Ministry of Peculiar Occurrences in Britain. It was a fantastic ride filled with murder, missing persons and revelations. They are traveling home aboard Britain’s latest hypersteam train when the hair rises on the back of Eliza’s neck. A woman of Eliza’s acquaintance vanishes before their eyes in a bright bolt of lightning. Eliza and Wellington are stunned, but back in the archives they find this strange occurrence is happening all over.
The Girl with the Windup Heart was a successful yet predictable finish to the Steampunk Chronicles by Kady Cross. With two storylines, all of our favorite characters are present as Cross weaved danger, humor and romantic moments into a steampunk-filled finale.
Phoenix Rising the first book in the Ministry of Peculiar Occurrences by Pip Ballantine and Tee Morris. I found it to be brilliant on audio. From the narrator to the steampunk I was swept up in the action. Mini review: Fantastic characters, brilliant steampunk and a plot that kept me thoroughly entertained.
