Clockmaker: A Gothic Steampunk Novel

                Hello happy readers! So today I have a review for a stand-alone sequel.  I know that sounds kind of strange but it’s legit.  I reviewed the Kristen Brand’s previous book Ghost Machine:  A Gothic Steampunk Novel and really enjoyed it as you can tell from my review.  So when the author messaged me about reviewing her newest title, Clockmaker:  A Gothic Steampunk Novel that focuses on a side character from the original book some time later of course I was interested.  So it technically takes place after the other book but can be read alone as well.  I received a copy in exchange for an honest review.

Rating:  4.5 Stars

                The crew of the Sultana is small but they have come through and rebuilt after past wows.  That has taken a toll and they are running on fumes.  Captain Melek knows this so when she gets a very generous offer from a reclusive gentleman who wears a golden mask for a quick transport job she can’t refuse.  Even if he is very mysterious about his cargo.  Now noises haunt her ship and warships fill the skies looking for her ship bringing an added danger to her ship and crew.  Despite the threats her passenger continues to be secretive and argumentative about his affairs but as the trip continues Captain Melek must have the truth if they have any chance of making it to Istanbul in one piece.

                This is a mysterious journey with all types of monsters to behold and secrets to uncover.  The back and forth with Captain Melek and Mr. Lesauvage was pretty entertaining even when I like her wanted to strange him and his secrecy.  The dangers of the journey and situations they end up in keep you on the edge of your seat.  This is a serious journey for our small but colorful crew.  I loved the way they interacted with one another both good and bad as things get dicer and sanity and loyalty are tested.  Emin, Ahmet, Ziska (who totally reminds me in small part of Kaylee from Firefly), Brocksby, and Mr. Moses.  Each one of them has a story and a purpose they are working towards as well an important job on the ship. 

                I don’t want to spoil anything but as we get closer to the destination with lots of dings and near misses along the way truths come out and it brings back old horrors and enemies.  Who can be trusted?  Is the risk too high?  Full of fantastical inventions like flying ships, recording spiders, and more it was a feast to the senses.  I really enjoyed this story and could see it being a stand-alone but having read the original introduction to the good Captain I really enjoyed seeing more of her as she had been a favorite character.

                Until next time…