Genre: Adult, Steampunk Mystery
Fantasy Element: Steampunk
Series: Unknown
Order Online: Amazon.com
| Carina PressStalk the Author: Web | Blog
Digital Galley from Netgalley.com
PJVs QUICKIE POV:
I really enjoy the salty flavor of steampunk. It is that coal layered, mechanical ooze that just works for me. If it is done right the descriptions are breathtaking and the world-building can be spectacular. Some of my fav books are littered with steampunkery. Carina Press seems to be putting out a few of these gadget laden novellas and I'm pleasantly pleased. THE MYSTERIOUS LADY LAW combines the art of steampunk with a murder mystery and peppers it with a smidge of romance. The mystery, interlaced with the Victorian era setting was well-defined and compelling and the characters were likable and their plight intense. I've found a new author to stalk...and not just because he's a hot guy (check out the pics on his web page) but because I really enjoyed his writing and plan to read more.
REVIEW:
There is a female of questionable character that is harassing Scotland Yard, not in the usual criminal sort of way -- but she is bettering them in their own investigations. She has a 100% correct track record and is now being recognized by the queen and given a title. She is unstoppable. But something is not right with THE MYSTERIOUS LADY LAW. Or so our heros and heroine seem to think.
Holly, an aged and jovial explorer and scientist, he has scaled mountains, explored the jungle and charmed royalty. His young apprentice has gone missing and he has sworn to clear his name of the rumors being told of his crimes.
Julia is a dancer and a part-time sky hostess. She comes home to find her sister murdered and her life turned upside down. A young constable comes to her aid, Al Grant, but Scotland Yard is at a loss as to who killed Georgy. When Lady Law offers to investigate pro bono, Julia couldn't possible refuse even though something is off in regards to Lady Law. As the three begin looking deeper into the death and disapperance of their loved ones...the mysteries just start piling up and they just might not be safe themselves.
A fun and fast-paced mystery that was very well written. Appleton kept in tone throughout the entire novel and his characters we quite believable in their Victorian speak. The mystery might not have been as mysteriuos as I would have like (figured it out a little too early) but it was original and it kept me reading. The shortness of the novella speeded things up a bit and left out a few tidbits that could have been expanded on but overall it was a fun little jaunt into steampunkery fabulous.
RECOMMENDATIONS:
Recommended for fans of steampunk and romance. There is violence and a bit of sexual interaction so this is an adult novel. This is a good transition from historical to steampunk. Give it a try, you might like it.
