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.
Chasing the Green Fairy is the second installment in Melanie Karsak’s Airship Racing Chronicles and what an emotional journey it was. From sabotaged airships, death, secret realms and decisions Karsak completely drew me in. Mini review: personal demons, heartbreak, beautiful, sweet and engaging.
