Veena’s review of Captain and a Corset (Steam Guardians, Book 2) by Mary Wine
Steampunk Romance published by Sourcebooks Casablanca 4 Jun 13

I found the first book in this series delightful and truly enjoyed my introduction into this genre. I could barely wait to get hold of the continuation of the series, but, alas, this book falls far short of my expectations.

We met Sophia Stevenson and lived with her through her transformation into a rare prize sought after by both the Illuminists and their enemies, the Helikians. As she is barely adjusting to her changed circumstances and dealing with her attraction to her self-appointed mentor and guardian, Captain Donakova, she is kidnapped again and sets of on her own series of adventures.

Secured aboard a pirate ship in preparation for her training as a navigator, the world is starting to look like a very bleak place indeed. Help is at hand, however, from the indomitable Captain who gets himself impressed as a crewman and navigator aboard the pirate vessel. Now he is back in control in his role as mentor and trainer – and let’s add lover to the mix.

While they are vigilant for chances of escape, it is offered unexpectedly when the pirate ship attacks and takes over an Illuminist ship. Thanks to Sophia’s ingenuity and use of the situation at hand, they jump overboard and try to find a way to fit in and make their way back to their society.

Becoming one of a band of Romany, they work their way to a secret house inside the heart of Russia, hiding from their enemies. Not destined to remain free for long, they are captured again and are now taken as prisoners by a Russian prince determined to auction them to the highest bidder. I just could not get into the story because some of the situations are so implausible and unrealistic.

While I find most of the story predictable, I quite enjoyed the scenes with the guardian couple who are dispatched to locate Sophia and Dion and, if possible, rescue them. Since clearly the next book in the series will be their book, I find myself cautiously optimistic that it will deliver on what appears to be an exciting story.

Grade: C

Summary:

There’s Trouble in the Skies…

For Sophia Stevenson, there’s no going back to the life she knew. She never asked for the powers that make her a precious commodity to the secret society of Illuminists—and their archenemies.

Captain Bion Donkova would give anything to possess the powers that have fallen in Sophia’s lap. If only the beautiful, infuriating woman could stay out of trouble, he wouldn’t have to keep coming to her rescue…

Bion and Sophia have friction to spare—and nothing fuels a forbidden passion better than danger…

No excerpt available.