Review: Necklace Without A Trace (Sierra Finley Adventures #1) by Lucy Penrose

About the Book
I've struggled, using all of my savings to get here to Deva city, with its floating airships and steam-propelled motorcars. I'm basically penniless, and soon to be homeless, never again able to feast my eyes on the city's brass luster.

I’ve come all this way to work for The Guild. An antique magical necklace has been stolen, and I’m assigned the case. If I don't screw this up, I'll achieve my dream of being a private investigator.

Unfortunately, the crime scene has no prints, no suspects, and no evidence. No pressure, right?

With supernatural creatures roaming the city, and monstrous mechanical creations in every corner, my job seems to get more difficult by the minute. A handsome shapeshifter dogs my every step, just waiting for me to mess up. Sneaky gnomes aren't exactly helping either. I’m threatened by lords, and sipping tea with the upper-crust. I'm way out of my depth.

How will I get out of this mess?

Necklace Without a Trace is the first novel in the Sierra Finley Adventure series: a cozy fantasy adventure set in a Victorian steampunk world full of mythical beasts and monsters, dirigibles and crazy inventions. Join Sierra in a story of adventure, crazy hijinks, and self-discovery.

Amazon / Goodreads

MY THOUGHTS

This was fun! I'm always on the lookout for a good steampunk book and this didn't disappoint. The worldbuilding was great, and I liked the fact that there were a plethora of different paranormal creatures. Pixies, shapeshifters, vampires, satyrs, fae, trolls, gorgons, ghosts... the list could go on.

Sierra was a likable heroine with spunk and determination. She wants nothing more than to be a private investigator with the Guild, but it's gonna be an uphill battle. She has to prove herself on a probationary case first. She's tasked with finding a valuable necklace that was stolen from a museum. This high-profile case really tests her. There were plenty of suspects, and while I had my suspicions about who the guilty party was, I wasn't sure until right before the reveal.

I really enjoyed this book and hope there are many more stories to come!

FOUR STARS

Can't Wait Wednesday: Lost in Wonderland (Beyond Wonderland Book 2) by Tabitha Bouldin

Can't Wait Wednesday is a weekly meme hosted by Wishful Endings that spotlights and discusses the books we're excited about that we've yet to read. Generally, they're books that are yet to be released. It's based on Waiting on Wednesday, hosted by Jill at Breaking the Spine.

This week I'm featuring Lost in Wonderland (Beyond Wonderland Book 2) by Tabitha Bouldin releasing March 14. A steampunk Alice in Wonderland retelling? Yes, please! I enjoyed the first book and have been eagerly awaiting this sequel!

About the Book

If you make a deal with evil, be prepared for the consequences.

When a metal dragon kidnaps Alice, Hatter gathers the troops and charges off to rescue her. If only things were so uncomplicated. In the Ivory Kingdom, they find upheaval of the worst kind and all heading to civil war spearheaded by a man known as the Bandersnatch.

Turmoil and the terror of fighting against a giant wolf, the Bandersnatch is bad enough, but when the Ivory Queen’s secrets are exposed, Hatter and Alice face off in a battle of wills and points of view. How can Alice trust a woman who deceived them? Why can’t Hatter see the bigger picture? If they don’t reconcile their differences, more could be at risk than the Ivory Kingdom.

More questions than answers bombard them in their quest for truth and freedom for all. Who is stealing children? What dark secret overshadows the Ivory Kingdom? Can they avoid the Bandersnatch’s clutches? And most important of all, who can they trust?

Join forces with Alice, Hatter, old friends and new, and be prepared to discover that trust and risk are often two sides of the same coin in this next Beyond Wonderland novel.

What upcoming release are you eagerly awaiting?

Review: Blood Secrets (Skyworld #2) by Morgan L. Busse

About the Book

Not everyone wants to see the world saved . . .

Time is running out. Cities are being engulfed in the Mist and humanity is on the brink of extinction. Theo believes he has found a way to stop mankind from Turning, but he doesn’t know how to alter Cass’s unique blood into a cure. Or if it can even be done.

Meanwhile, Cass struggles with the idea that she is possibly the savior of the world—a world she is not sure is worth saving.

From the Winchester manse to the steel city of Decadenn, there is something more chasing Cass than the House of Lords or the masked man who can walk in the Mist. Soon she must decide if she will use her blood to save mankind or let those who only care about themselves perish.

Amazon / Goodreads

MY THOUGHTS

What a great conclusion to the Skyworld duology! It picks up right where the first one left off, so I'd definitely recommend picking up Secrets in the Mist before diving into this one.

I loved the first book, so I was very eager for this sequel. And I've gotta say, it did not disappoint. I wanted to take my time and spend as long as I could with these characters in this fascinating world. I tried to read it slowly, but as you can probably imagine, that didn't happen. I couldn't help but speed through it. It was fast paced and incredibly hard to put down.

This was a very satisfying conclusion, though I kinda wish it had been a little longer. Things wrapped up pretty quick in the end, but, all in all, it was an incredibly entertaining read. It's a definite must read for steampunk fans, but I think it'd be a good introduction for those not familiar with the genre too.

I received an advanced copy of this book and voluntarily reviewed it. All thoughts and comments are my honest opinion.

FOUR STARS

Can't Wait Wednesday: Blood Secrets (Skyworld #2) by Morgan L. Busse

Can't Wait Wednesday is a weekly meme hosted by Wishful Endings that spotlights and discusses the books we're excited about that we've yet to read. Generally, they're books that are yet to be released. It's based on Waiting on Wednesday, hosted by Jill at Breaking the Spine.

This week I'm featuring Blood Secrets (Skyworld #2) by Morgan L. Busse releasing August 9.  

About the Book

Not everyone wants to see the world saved . . .

Time is running out. Cities are being engulfed in the Mist and humanity is on the brink of extinction. Theo believes he has found a way to stop mankind from Turning, but he doesn’t know how to alter Cass’s unique blood into a cure. Or if it can even be done.

Meanwhile, Cass struggles with the idea that she is possibly the savior of the world—a world she is not sure is worth saving.

From the Winchester manse to the steel city of Decadenn, there is something more chasing Cass than the House of Lords or the masked man who can walk in the Mist. Soon she must decide if she will use her blood to save mankind or let those who only care about themselves perish.

What upcoming release are you eagerly awaiting?

Review: Madness in Wonderland by Tabitha Bouldin

About the Book

Wonderland is in trouble.

Under the rule of the Red Queen, Wonderland is under constant threat. In fear for her throne, children are taken into the queen’s army and only the strongest survive.

Alice is nothing but a pirate, but with the help of Hatter, they hatch a plan to sneak into the Red Queen’s palace to free Hatter’s sister. After all, Alice has always wanted to fly an airship.

Dr. Frank N. Stein has created an army of automatons to serve their queen. Of particular note: a prototype soldier. Part man. Part machine. The best of both worlds.

Doc’s monster is a threat to everything they know, but Alice sees something in the man that begs she look beyond what he’s done and search out the heart of the beast for the better of the realm.

He’s their only hope of survival, but how can a monster learn to love when all he’s known is hate?

Amazon / Goodreads

(Available in Kindle Unlimited at time of posting)

MY THOUGHTS

This was my kind of book! A steampunk Alice in Wonderland retelling with a Frankenstein twist? Yes, please! I was drawn right into this story and was completely captivated.

I really enjoyed the three different POVs following Alice, Hatter, and Alpha. Although I do have to say Alpha's was probably my favorite. He was such an intriguing character. I liked Alice too. She was a great heroine. Brave, fierce, steadfast, and loyal. She was easy to root for. I wanted to love Hatter, but I never fully warmed up to him. He was an interesting guy, but a bit too impulsive and stubborn for my liking.

I LOVED Chess. He had such a strong faith, and I liked the way that he shared it with others. It just felt so natural. He was a little rough around the edges, but there was definitely more to him than first met the eye. I wish he'd been featured a little more prominently, but I enjoyed every second he showed up on the page.

This action-packed retelling is sure to appeal to fans of Morgan L. Busse and Sara Ella. I'm hoping for many more books in this series because I'd love to visit this world again and again.

FOUR STARS

Book Beginnings + Friday 56: Madness in Wonderland by Tabitha Bouldin

Book Beginnings is a weekly meme hosted by Rose City Reader that asks you to share the first sentence (or so) of the book you're reading. Friday 56 is hosted by Freda's Voice and asks you to grab a book (any book), turn to page 56 or 56% in your ereader and share a non-spoilery sentence or two. I'm also linking up with Carrie at Reading is My Superpower for First Line Friday.

This week I'm featuring Madness in Wonderland by Tabitha Bouldin. This is such a fun steampunk Alice in Wonderland retelling with a Frankenstein twist. 

About the Book

Wonderland is in trouble.

Under the rule of the Red Queen, Wonderland is under constant threat. In fear for her throne, children are taken into the queen’s army and only the strongest survive.

Alice is nothing but a pirate, but with the help of Hatter, they hatch a plan to sneak into the Red Queen’s palace to free Hatter’s sister. After all, Alice has always wanted to fly an airship.

Dr. Frank N. Stein has created an army of automatons to serve their queen. Of particular note: a prototype soldier. Part man. Part machine. The best of both worlds.

Doc’s monster is a threat to everything they know, but Alice sees something in the man that begs she look beyond what he’s done and search out the heart of the beast for the better of the realm.

He’s their only hope of survival, but how can a monster learn to love when all he’s known is hate?

Book Beginnings / First Line Friday

There should be a law that says no arrests before tea.

Friday 56

Doc's approaching steps thudded, and both women jerked their gazes toward the open door.

What have you been reading lately?

Can't Wait Wednesday: The Emperor’s Aeronaut (The Regent's Devices, #1) by Shelley Adina & R.E. Scott

Can't Wait Wednesday is a weekly meme hosted by Wishful Endings that spotlights and discusses the books we're excited about that we've yet to read. Generally, they're books that are yet to be released. It's based on Waiting on Wednesday, hosted by Jill at Breaking the Spine.

This week I'm featuring The Emperor’s Aeronaut (The Regent's Devices, #1) by Shelley Adina & R.E. Scott releasing May 4. I'm always on the lookout for new steampunk and this sounds like it could be really good.

About the Book

Napoleon is determined to conquer the world with his steam-powered weapons. Nothing in England can stop him … except two young lady inventors.

In 1819, France is surrounded by armies. With Russia in the north, the Karlsruhe Confederacy in the east, and a pirate kingdom in the south, Napoleon cannot break out, nor can the English Navy seem to break in. Europe teeters on the edge of a sword. Whichever side rules the air will win.

Celeste Blanchard, daughter of the Emperor’s disgraced Air Minister, is running out of time to develop an air ship that can carry his armies to England and restore her mother to glory. But on a daring and desperate test flight, she is blown off course … and washes up, half drowned, on the shores of Cornwall, in the heart of enemy territory.

Loveday Penhale, cosseted daughter of gentry, has her own inventions to build, even as pressure mounts to behave like a proper young lady and seek a husband instead of a design for a high-pressure steam engine. But when Arthur Trevelyan, heir to the neighboring estate, Gwynn Place, asks for her help in rescuing an unconscious young woman on the beach, Loveday discovers an aeronaut and an inventor as skilled as she is. Between them, a friendship blossoms, and Loveday wonders if they might even pull off the impossible and invent an air ship that will catch the eye of the Tinkering Prince Regent, who has offered a prize to anyone who can help England break the impasse. Celeste’s loyalties are torn in two. If she is caught working secretly for France, she will lose her friend, the love of an honorable man—and her life. But if Napoleon learns she has betrayed him, she will be executed on sight.

Can friendship prevail in the face of war? Or is there a third solution—one where everything hinges on the bravery and daring of a Cornish debutante and the Emperor’s aeronaut?

What upcoming release are you eagerly anticipating?

Review: Brass Carriages and Glass Hearts by Nancy Campbell Allen

About the Book

A steampunk retelling of Cinderella.

Emmeline O’Shea is determined to save the world—single-handedly, if necessary. A strong voice for societal reform, she is the natural choice to deliver a key speech at the end of the International Shifter Rights Organization’s week-long Summit in Scotland.

But when a death threat arrives at Emme’s home, she is immediately placed into protective custody, watched over by none other than her personal nemesis, Detective-Inspector Oliver Reed. The two have crossed paths many times, with disastrous results, but now they will have to work together in order to reach the Summit before midnight of the last day in order to ensure legislation is passed to protect the Shifter community.

As unseen enemies close in around Emme and Oliver, they struggle to reach Edinburgh by any means necessary, only to find Emme’s vindictive stepsister, Oliver’s vampire brother, and a dangerous political minefield awaiting them in Scotland.

Even more difficult is their own refusal to admit that the fiery animosity that once burned between them might be turning into the heat of romantic passion. Could a straitlaced policeman determined to uphold the law and an outspoken activist willing to break the rules ever find true love? Or will all their dreams shatter like glass when the clock strikes midnight?

Amazon / Goodreads

MY THOUGHTS

This was a fun read. The whole series has been a blast. I love a good retelling, and when you add steampunk into the mix, how can I resist?

This was probably my least favorite in the series, but in no way was it bad. I loved that Emme and Oliver finally got their happily ever after, and I enjoyed getting to see the previous characters. It was neat seeing what they were up to now. I did feel like the pacing was a little uneven at times, which made for a slower read than I expected. And while I felt like we got to know Emme really well, Oliver wasn't quite as fleshed-out and three-dimensional as her.

I loved all the nods to Cinderella. I thought the first part was a little light on the retelling aspect and I was beginning to wonder when the fairy tale parts were gonna show up. But they did eventually appear, and I thought they were cleverly done. (I loved Gus Gus!)

If you're a fan of steampunk, or just wanting to give it a try, I definitely recommend this series. I'd say start with book one, though. This one could probably technically stand alone, but there's a lot of backstory that would be missed out on. Plus, Beauty and the Clockwork Beast is one of my all-time favorite retellings.

3.5 STARS

Book Beginnings + Friday 56: Brass Carriages and Glass Hearts by Nancy Campbell Allen

Book Beginnings is a weekly meme hosted by Rose City Reader that asks you to share the first sentence (or so) of the book you're reading. Friday 56 is hosted by Freda's Voice and asks you to grab a book (any book), turn to page 56 or 56% in your ereader and share a non-spoilery sentence or two.

This week I'm featuring Brass Carriages and Glass Hearts by Nancy Campbell Allen, the fourth book in a series of steampunk fairytale retellings.

About the Book

A steampunk retelling of Cinderella.

Emmeline O’Shea is determined to save the world—single-handedly, if necessary. A strong voice for societal reform, she is the natural choice to deliver a key speech at the end of the International Shifter Rights Organization’s week-long Summit in Scotland.

But when a death threat arrives at Emme’s home, she is immediately placed into protective custody, watched over by none other than her personal nemesis, Detective-Inspector Oliver Reed. The two have crossed paths many times, with disastrous results, but now they will have to work together in order to reach the Summit before midnight of the last day in order to ensure legislation is passed to protect the Shifter community.

As unseen enemies close in around Emme and Oliver, they struggle to reach Edinburgh by any means necessary, only to find Emme’s vindictive stepsister, Oliver’s vampire brother, and a dangerous political minefield awaiting them in Scotland.

Even more difficult is their own refusal to admit that the fiery animosity that once burned between them might be turning into the heat of romantic passion. Could a straitlaced policeman determined to uphold the law and an outspoken activist willing to break the rules ever find true love? Or will all their dreams shatter like glass when the clock strikes midnight?

Book Beginnings

Emmeline Castle O'Shea stood at a podium on the balcony of the Municipal Hall for Citizen Affairs and looked out with satisfaction at the murmuring crowd, feeling the energy build in the large room as she finished speaking.

Friday 56

Gus looked at Oliver with sympathy, which reinforced Emme's prior assessment of their new acquaintance. "It is easy to don blinders where family is concerned. The most crucial information for you to know at this point is Lawrence Reed and the vampire Cadre, which he leads, are determined to prevent wide-scale acceptance of shifter reform."

What have you been reading lately?

Release Day Review: Secrets in the Mist (Skyworld #1) by Morgan L. Busse

About the Book

What’s lurking in the Mist is the least of their worries…

In a world where humanity lives in the sky to escape a deadly mist below, Cass’s only goal is survival. That is, until she finds a job on the airship Daedalus as a diver. Now she explores ruined cities, looking for treasure and people’s lost heirlooms until a young man hires her to find the impossible: a way to eradicate the Mist.

Theodore Winchester is a member of one of the Five Families that rule the skies. Following in his father’s footsteps, he searches for the source of the Mist and hopes to stop the purges used to control overpopulation. But what he finds are horrifying secrets and lethal ambition. If he continues his quest, it could mean his own death.

The Mist is rising and soon the world will be enveloped in its deadly embrace, turning what's left of humanity into the undead.

Amazon / Goodreads

MY THOUGHTS

This book was awesome! Steampunk is one of my favorite genres, so when I found out that Morgan L. Busse was releasing a new steampunk duology, I was ecstatic. Her Soul Chronicles series is a favorite of mine. And Secrets in the Mist did not disappoint. It blew my already high expectations out of the water. I was fully invested and completely immersed in the story from the very first sentence till the very last word.

The world-building was fantastic. Everything really came to life. The descriptions were great, and I felt like I could picture everything with crystal clear perfection. The real world faded away and I was right there in the thick of things with Cass and Theo. It was so eerie when they ventured into the Mist. And I'm not even gonna lie, it got a bit scary when the zombie-like creatures, the Turned, showed up. They were so creepy.

This was steampunk at its finest. Exactly the kind of book that I'm always looking for, but can hardly ever find. I loved everything about it.... well, except that it ended. And on a cliffhanger, no less! Oh my goodness, I need the next book ASAP! This will be a definite reread for me. I loved it so much and highly recommend it!

I received an early copy of this book and voluntarily reviewed it. All thoughts and comments are my honest opinion.

FIVE STARS

Can't Wait Wednesday: Secrets in the Mist (Skyworld #1) by Morgan L. Busse

Can't Wait Wednesday is a weekly meme hosted by Wishful Endings that spotlights and discusses the books we're excited about that we've yet to read. Generally, they're books that are yet to be released. It's based on Waiting on Wednesday, hosted by Jill at Breaking the Spine.

This week I'm featuring Secrets in the Mist (Skyworld #1) by Morgan L. Busse releasing August 10. 

About the Book

What’s lurking in the Mist is the least of their worries…

In a world where humanity lives in the sky to escape a deadly mist below, Cass’s only goal is survival. That is, until she finds a job on the airship Daedalus as a diver. Now she explores ruined cities, looking for treasure and people’s lost heirlooms until a young man hires her to find the impossible: a way to eradicate the Mist.

Theodore Winchester is a member of one of the Five Families that rule the skies. Following in his father’s footsteps, he searches for the source of the Mist and hopes to stop the purges used to control overpopulation. But what he finds are horrifying secrets and lethal ambition. If he continues his quest, it could mean his own death.

The Mist is rising and soon the world will be enveloped in its deadly embrace, turning what's left of humanity into the undead.

What upcoming release are you eagerly anticipating?

Review: Soulless (Parasol Protectorate #1) by Gail Carriger

About the Book

Alexia Tarabotti is laboring under a great many social tribulations. First, she has no soul. Second, she's a spinster whose father is both Italian and dead. Third, she was rudely attacked by a vampire, breaking all standards of social etiquette.

Where to go from there? From bad to worse apparently, for Alexia accidentally kills the vampire -- and then the appalling Lord Maccon (loud, messy, gorgeous, and werewolf) is sent by Queen Victoria to investigate.

With unexpected vampires appearing and expected vampires disappearing, everyone seems to believe Alexia responsible. Can she figure out what is actually happening to London's high society? Will her soulless ability to negate supernatural powers prove useful or just plain embarrassing? Finally, who is the real enemy, and do they have treacle tart?

Amazon / Goodreads

My Thoughts

Soulless had been languishing on my TBR list for way too long and I'm so glad I finally read it. It was so much fun!

The world building was great. I love a steampunk setting and when you add supernatural elements, I'm even more stoked. Here we have vampires, werewolves and ghosts. They're not hiding in the shadows, but are very much known to the public and are a vital part of society. The vampires in this book are very interesting and rather different from what I'd previously read. They group together in “hives” and have a somewhat bee-like structure to their society. It's all very intriguing. The werewolves and ghosts were pretty much what I expected them to be though.

Alexia was a hilarious and all-round fun heroine to read about. She always had a perfectly-timed witty or sarcastic comment for everything. Her and Lord Maccon were perfect for each other. Their banter was entertaining and their chemistry was off the charts! And I can't forget to mention Lord Akeldama. My favorite character, he definitely stole the scene every time he showed up.

I'm very eager to check out book two to see what happens next.

NOTE: This is not a clean read. It does contain some extra steamy scenes.

Four Stars

Cover Reveal: Secrets in the Mist by Morgan L. Busse

I'm so excited to join in the cover reveal of Secrets in the Mist by Morgan L. Busse releasing from Enclave Publishing in August 2021! This is the first book in the YA steampunk Skyworld duology and is available to preorder in Limited-Edition Hardcover.

About the Book

What’s lurking in the Mist is the least of their worries…

In a world where humanity lives in the sky to escape a deadly mist below, Cass’s only goal is survival. That is, until she finds a job on the airship Daedalus as a diver. Now she explores ruined cities, looking for treasure and people’s lost heirlooms until a young man hires her to find the impossible: a way to eradicate the Mist.

Theodore Winchester is a member of one of the Five Families that rule the skies. Following in his father’s footsteps, he searches for the source of the deadly Mist and hopes to stop the purges used to control overpopulation. But what he finds are horrifying secrets and lethal ambition. If he continues his quest, it could mean his own death.

The Mist is rising and soon the world will be enveloped in its deadly embrace, turning what's left of humanity into the undead.

Link to Preorder the Limited-Edition Hardcover: http://bit.ly/SecretsintheMist

Review: Goblins and Snowflakes by Melanie Karsak

About the Book

*Caution: May contain Christmas gnomes

Never bargain with goblin men.

Scarlette Rossetti thought her stay at Strawberry Hill Castle during the Christmas holiday would pass by uneventfully. She couldn't have been more wrong. Enticed by the delights of the nearby village of Twickenham, Scarlette's life would change in unimaginable ways.

She never expected to be drawn magnetically to The Two Sisters Doll Shop and Toy Emporium.

Scarlette didn't guess that tinkering clockwork gnomes could have supernatural consequences.

And she didn't know that one should never, ever, bargain with goblin men.

But during the Christmas season, magic is always brewing.

Charles Dickens meets Supernatural in this magical retelling of The Elves and The Shoemaker. Dive into New York Times bestselling author Melanie Karsak's award-winning fairy tale world set in gaslamp England.

Amazon / Goodreads

My Thoughts

I absolutely loved this story. I'm not very familiar with the fairy tale it was based on, but that didn't hinder my enjoyment one bit. It's a super fun Christmassy read that transported me right into the story. Seriously, that first chapter? It made me so hungry! All those baked goods were described so well that I could almost taste them!

The characters were great and the romance was sweet. Scarlette and Archie had such great camaraderie. They were the perfect pair.

The world building was stunning. I'm so excited there are more books set in this world for me to explore! I can't wait to check them out. If you're a fan of steampunk or fairy tales, check this novella out. I highly recommend it.

4.5 Stars

Review: Hauntings and Humbug: A Steampunk Christmas Carol by Melanie Karsak

About the Book
Humbug! This Christmas, Ebony Scrooge will learn the true meaning of the holiday season.

It’s Christmas Eve in Victorian London, and Ebony Scrooge is hard at work tinkering weapons of mass destruction and avoiding all things Christmas. When the spirit of her deceased partner, Jacqueline Marley, warns Ebony that she will be visited by three ghosts, Ebony writes the visitation off as a dream. But on this Christmas Eve, the spirits of Christmas Past, Present, and Future must try to pull off a miracle, restoring Ebony’s heart before it’s too late.

Hauntings and Humbug is a retelling of Charles Dickens’s A Christmas Carol, set in New York Times bestselling author Melanie’s Karsak’s steampunk universe.

Amazon / Goodreads

My Thoughts

Hauntings and Humbug is a gender-swapped retelling of A Christmas Carol in a steampunk setting. I absolutely loved it. It's a very quick but satisfying read. It brought out all my emotions. It's so full of heart and made me tear up a couple times.

For some reason, retellings of A Christmas Carol always wind up being some of my favorites. This one is right up there. I loved the steampunk twist. I never would've thought to place this story in a steampunk setting, but it worked so well. Like it was made for it.

If you're looking for a unique and heartwarming Christmas story, I highly recommend this one. It'll pull at your heartstrings and leave a smile on your face.

Five Stars

Merry Christmas Eve!

Review: The Lady in the Coppergate Tower by Nancy Campbell Allen

About the Book

Hazel Hughes has spent her life believing she is a Medium—someone who can talk to ghosts. But as of yet, that skill has remained frustratingly elusive. She is also suffering from a reoccurring childhood dream of someone who looks almost exactly like Hazel, but this dream version of herself is slowly going mad.

Sam MacInnes is a talented surgeon who runs in the highest social circles thanks to his family’s position and history. When Sam hires Hazel to assist him with his medical practice, he is immediately drawn to her intelligence, wit, and beauty.

Their potential relationship is derailed one evening when a mysterious count arrives in London and reveals to Hazel the truth about her past: she was abducted at birth and her twin sister has fallen dangerously ill.

Hazel agrees to travel to Romania with Count Petrescu in order to save her sister, and Sam insists on accompanying her. The count has secrets, though, and the journey grows more sinister with every mile that draws Hazel closer to her homeland. Even as her feelings for Sam become deeper and more complicated, she fears she might not survive the quest to save her sister with her heart intact, not to mention her life. She must learn to draw on gifts she doesn’t know she has if they are going to ever return home again.

Hazel and Sam must fight their way past dark magic, clockwork beasts, and their own insecurities as they try to reach her sister in the impenetrable Coppergate Tower before time runs out.

Amazon / Goodreads

My Thoughts

The Lady in the Coppergate Tower retells the story of Rapunzel in a unique way. While it wasn't my favorite story in this series, it was still really good. It just took me a little while to get into it and connect with Hazel and Sam. But once the Count showed up, the pace really picked up and when they headed to Romania, I could hardly put it down.

I loved the change of scenery. The submersible was a fun setting and then Romania was great. I always find it to be a fittingly creepy backdrop for books like this.

I'm loving this series and the way it combines steampunk, fairy tales, and supernatural elements. Those are three of my favorite things and it's done so well here. I'm beyond excited for Emme and Oliver's story in Brass Carriages and Glass Hearts. I can't wait!

Four Stars

Book Beginnings + Friday 56: The Lady in the Coppergate Tower by Nancy Campbell Allen

Book Beginnings is a weekly meme hosted by Rose City Reader that asks you to share the first sentence (or so) of the book you're reading. Friday 56 is hosted by Freda's Voice and asks you to grab a book (any book), turn to page 56 or 56% in your ereader and share a non-spoilery sentence or two.

This week I'm featuring a fun steampunk retelling of Rapunzel, The Lady in the Coppergate Tower by Nancy Campbell Allen.

About the Book

Hazel Hughes has spent her life believing she is a Medium—someone who can talk to ghosts. But as of yet, that skill has remained frustratingly elusive. She is also suffering from a reoccurring childhood dream of someone who looks almost exactly like Hazel, but this dream version of herself is slowly going mad.

Sam MacInnes is a talented surgeon who runs in the highest social circles thanks to his family’s position and history. When Sam hires Hazel to assist him with his medical practice, he is immediately drawn to her intelligence, wit, and beauty.

Their potential relationship is derailed one evening when a mysterious count arrives in London and reveals to Hazel the truth about her past: she was abducted at birth and her twin sister has fallen dangerously ill.

Hazel agrees to travel to Romania with Count Petrescu in order to save her sister, and Sam insists on accompanying her. The count has secrets, though, and the journey grows more sinister with every mile that draws Hazel closer to her homeland. Even as her feelings for Sam become deeper and more complicated, she fears she might not survive the quest to save her sister with her heart intact, not to mention her life. She must learn to draw on gifts she doesn’t know she has if they are going to ever return home again.

Hazel and Sam must fight their way past dark magic, clockwork beasts, and their own insecurities as they try to reach her sister in the impenetrable Coppergate Tower before time runs out.

Book Beginning

Dr. Samuel MacInnes lay on his back in his bed at Blackwell Manor, arms behind his head, and looked at the night sky. Rather than a traditional guest room, his accommodations were in the third-floor observatory, complete with domed glass ceiling.

Friday 56

He descended to Deck Two, glanced in the Main Room, which was eerily empty and dimly lit. Perhaps she might have gone to the infirmary? He jogged down the steps to the next level and checked each open door. 

What have you been reading lately? 

Review: Kiss of the Spindle by Nancy Campbell Allen

About the Book
A steampunk Sleeping Beauty story from the author of Beauty and the Clockwork Beast.

Doctor Isla Cooper is cursed. Literally. Each night, at the stroke of midnight she falls into a death-like sleep from which she cannot be awakened for six hours. To make it worse, the curse has an expiration date--after a year, it becomes permanent. And the year is almost up.

In a desperate attempt to find Malette--the witch who cursed her--Isla blackmails her way onto Daniel Pickett's private airship bound for the Caribbean, only to discover she's traveling with three illegal shapeshifters and the despicable Nigel Crowe, a government official determined to hunt down and exterminate every shapeshifter in England. Isla and Daniel must work together to keep the identities of the shapeshifters hidden while coming to terms with their own hidden secrets, and their blossoming attraction to each other.

Filled with suspense, intrigue, and plenty of romance, Kiss of the Spindle is steampunk Sleeping Beauty story. It is a race against the clock as Isla and Daniel try to hunt down the elusive Malette before Isla's death-like sleep becomes permanent.

Amazon / Goodreads

My Thoughts

I loved the first book in this series, Beauty and the Clockwork Beast, so I was beyond excited to start Kiss of the Spindle. And I've gotta say, it was just as good as it's predecessor. There's just something so fun about combining a steampunk setting with a fairy tale retelling. I can't get enough of it.

Isla was a kick-butt heroine. Strong, independent, determined, courageous. She knew exactly what she wanted and stopped at nothing to get it. Daniel was a bit closed-off, so it was hard to get a feel for him in the beginning, but it wasn't long before he showed himself to be an infinitely likable guy with a heart of gold. They made such a great team and I really liked the fact that they started off as friends. There was no insta-love here which I was so grateful for. The romance slowly developed over the course of the book.

I always liked Sleeping Beauty so to see it retold in this way was a joy. I was fully and completely engrossed in it and didn't want it to end. I highly recommend it and am so ready for book three!

Five Stars

Book Beginnings + Friday 56: Kiss of the Spindle by Nancy Campbell Allen

Book Beginnings is a weekly meme hosted by Rose City Reader that asks you to share the first sentence (or so) of the book you're reading. Friday 56 is hosted by Freda's Voice and asks you to grab a book (any book), turn to page 56 or 56% in your ereader and share a non-spoilery sentence or two.

This week I'm featuring a steampunk retelling of Sleeping Beauty, Kiss of the Spindle by Nancy Campbell Allen.

About the Book

Doctor Isla Cooper is cursed. Literally. Each night, at the stroke of midnight she falls into a death-like sleep from which she cannot be awakened for six hours. To make it worse, the curse has an expiration date--after a year, it becomes permanent. And the year is almost up.

In a desperate attempt to find Malette--the witch who cursed her--Isla blackmails her way onto Daniel Pickett's private airship bound for the Caribbean, only to discover she's traveling with three illegal shapeshifters and the despicable Nigel Crowe, a government official determined to hunt down and exterminate every shapeshifter in England. Isla and Daniel must work together to keep the identities of the shapeshifters hidden while coming to terms with their own hidden secrets, and their blossoming attraction to each other.

Filled with suspense, intrigue, and plenty of romance, Kiss of the Spindle is steampunk Sleeping Beauty story. It is a race against the clock as Isla and Daniel try to hunt down the elusive Malette before Isla's death-like sleep becomes permanent.

Book Beginning

Isla Elizabeth Cooper extended her hand toward the airship ticket agent. "If you don't have any flights leaving for the Caribbean immediately, return my passport and I'll find another way."

Friday 56

Something roared and split the night behind him, a shell shooting into the sky and setting his pulse racing along with it. Without thought, he wrapped Isla and took her to the ground, monkey and all, and shielded them with his body.

Hosted by Billy @ Coffee Addicted Writer

Do you have a reading challenge for 2020?

I'm participating in the Goodreads Reading Challenge. I'm hoping to read at least 100 books. I might up the number if I see that I'm gonna hit that number early though.

What have you been reading lately?

Review: The Electrical Menagerie (The Celestial Isles #1) by Mollie E. Reeder

About the Book

The Electrical Menagerie, one-of-a-kind robotic roadshow, is bankrupt.

Sylvester Carthage, illusionist and engineer, has the eccentric imagination the Menagerie needs to succeed creatively -- but none of the people skills. Fast-talking Arbrook Huxley, meanwhile, has all the savvy the Menagerie needs to succeed commercially -- but none of the scruples.

To save their show, Carthage & Huxley risk everything in a royal talent competition, vying for the once-in-a-lifetime chance to perform for the Future Celestial Queen. In this stardust-and-spark-powered empire of floating islands and flying trains, The Electrical Menagerie's bid at fame and fortune means weathering the glamorous and cutthroat world of critics, high society, and rival magicians -- but with real conspiracy lurking beneath tabloid controversy, there's more at stake in this contest than the prize.

Behind the glittery haze of flash paper and mirrors, every competitor has something to hide... and it's the lies Carthage & Huxley tell each other that may cost them everything.

Amazon / Goodreads

My Thoughts

What a wondrous and fantastical read! The Electrical Menagerie is one of the best books I've read, not just this year, but, like, ever. It's definitely got a spot on my favorites shelf and is a book I'm gonna want to reread over and over again.

It was so incredibly good, so imaginative. I'm kinda left speechless, having no idea what I can say that would possibly do it justice. It's one of those books that I just want to shove at people and yell (in the friendliest way), “READ THIS BOOK NOW!”

There was a part of me that wanted to read it as fast as possible, to devour it. But I made myself slow down and savor it. I loved every single second of it. It's as close to perfect as a book can get. If I could give it more than five stars, I certainly would.

With an almost lyrical-like writing style and many profoundly poignant moments, I'll be thinking about it for a long time to come. I highly recommend The Electrical Menagerie to everyone!

Five Stars