Veena’s review of Of Silk and Steam (London Steampunk, Book 5) by Bec McMasters
Steampunk Romance published by Sourcebooks Casablanca 03 Mar 15
I fondly recall the first time I was introduced to this genre and my feelings about how this was not something that would ever appeal to me. Well, I can freely admit that Ms. McMasters has definitely proved that claim false, because I have very definitely enjoyed this series, which skillfully blends the paranormal elements of vampirism and weres with the steamy elements of technology to create a Victorian England that is so very different from what we read in the history books.
With this book the story definitely shifts from the night hawks and weres into the intrigues of the court. Leo Barrons has been a mysterious blueblood who’s played an invaluable supporting role in some of the earlier stories while continuing to be a man of mystery. This book lifts the curtain on his life and gives us the true person who hides behind the mask, shedding light on why he did some of the things he did in the earlier books.
Likewise, Lady Aramina has played a small role in the earlier books, though she did not spark my interest as much. While Leo has been intrigued by her, despite his familial history with her family, I think even he is blown away by what she’s been hiding behind her icy façade. The adage that women are actually the stronger sex is never clearer than in this story.
As the two characters fence with each other on the surface, there is rebellion and intrigue fermenting behind the scenes. The prince consort has been unveiled as a villain, but his villainy is now fully exposed and I’m glad it’s time for him to get his comeuppance. There are many surprises as we read along, and the battle for London is quite exciting with a completed, unexpected finale.
As this story arc concludes, it leaves me wondering what the author has planned next. I would like to see more steampunk books from Ms. McMaster’s imagination, because, contrary to my own expectations, I have definitely enjoyed the series.
Grade: B
Summary:
ENEMIES. ALLIES. LOVERS.
When her beloved father was assassinated, Lady Aramina swore revenge. The man responsible is well beyond her grasp, but his dangerously seductive heir, Leo Barrons, is fair game. When Mina obtains evidence proving that Leo is illegitimate, she has the means to destroy both the killer and his son, a man who troubles her heart and tempts her body.
A woman of mystery, Mina’s long driven Leo crazy with glimpses of a fiery passion that lurks beneath her icy veneer. He knows she’s hiding something, and he’s determined to unravel her layer by silken layer. He just doesn’t expect the beautiful liar to be the key to overthrowing the corrupt prince consort…or to saving his own carefully walled-off heart.
Other books in this series
