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London Steampunk #4
Forged by Desire
A fear she can't escape....
Nine years ago, Perry fled her thrall contract to find sanctuary among the Nighthawks. In that time, she's become a respected member of the Guard, and she's wanted Garrett Reed for as long as she can remember. But when a new case takes a chillingly familiar turn, Perry finds herself once again in the path of a madman...only this time, there's nowhere left to run.
A desire that can't be tempered...
Out of their depth and racing against time, Perry and Garrett must learn to trust the desire sparking between them...or risk losing themselves forever to the darkness stalking London's streets.
Nine years ago, Perry fled her thrall contract to find sanctuary among the Nighthawks. In that time, she's become a respected member of the Guard, and she's wanted Garrett Reed for as long as she can remember. But when a new case takes a chillingly familiar turn, Perry finds herself once again in the path of a madman...only this time, there's nowhere left to run.
A desire that can't be tempered...
Out of their depth and racing against time, Perry and Garrett must learn to trust the desire sparking between them...or risk losing themselves forever to the darkness stalking London's streets.
448 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published September 2, 2014
128 people are currently reading
2541 people want to read
About the author
Bec McMaster
64 books3,464 followersKidnapped by a dread pirate when she was a child, USA Today Bestselling Author Bec McMaster was raised on myth and legend, and offered her younger siblings to the goblin king many a time. Unfortunately, he did not accept.
Now she writes epic fantasy romance with a dark and sexy twist, which is almost as much fun. She has a secret weakness for villainous heroes, wicked fae princes and dangerous vampires, though in all her daydreams, she’s the one rescuing them.
Bec lives happily-ever-after with her very own hero and princess-in-training in the wilds of Australia, where she can often be found drinking tea or plotting her next travel adventure.
Escape the ordinary at www.becmcmaster.com
Join Bec's mailing list at http://eepurl.com/F_LkD for all the latest news on releases, exclusive excerpts, cover reveals, and epilogues.
Newest Release: CROWN OF DARKNESS (Available now)
Next release: MASTER OF STORMS (Legends of the Storm #5--coming January, 2021)
Where to start?
If you want deliciously dark fae princes, then try Dark Court Rising or Court of Dreams.
For sexy dragon shifters, see Legends of the Storm.
Sorcery and magic?
Try the Dark Arts series.
Kick-bustle ladies-saving-the-day steampunk romance?
Then check out London Steampunk and the London Steampunk: The Blue Blood Conspiracy series.
For rocket-fuelled post-apocalyptic romance with a twist on the werewolf theme, then read the Burned Lands.
Now she writes epic fantasy romance with a dark and sexy twist, which is almost as much fun. She has a secret weakness for villainous heroes, wicked fae princes and dangerous vampires, though in all her daydreams, she’s the one rescuing them.
Bec lives happily-ever-after with her very own hero and princess-in-training in the wilds of Australia, where she can often be found drinking tea or plotting her next travel adventure.
Escape the ordinary at www.becmcmaster.com
Join Bec's mailing list at http://eepurl.com/F_LkD for all the latest news on releases, exclusive excerpts, cover reveals, and epilogues.
Newest Release: CROWN OF DARKNESS (Available now)
Next release: MASTER OF STORMS (Legends of the Storm #5--coming January, 2021)
Where to start?
If you want deliciously dark fae princes, then try Dark Court Rising or Court of Dreams.
For sexy dragon shifters, see Legends of the Storm.
Sorcery and magic?
Try the Dark Arts series.
Kick-bustle ladies-saving-the-day steampunk romance?
Then check out London Steampunk and the London Steampunk: The Blue Blood Conspiracy series.
For rocket-fuelled post-apocalyptic romance with a twist on the werewolf theme, then read the Burned Lands.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 309 reviews
October 7, 2018
⭐️5 stars⭐️
The man with the biggest fists or the best skills in a knife fight isn't always the strongest or the bravest.
It's those who survive the worst life can throw at them and keep on fighting.
Garrett is a gosh darn dreamboat.
The man with the biggest fists or the best skills in a knife fight isn't always the strongest or the bravest.
It's those who survive the worst life can throw at them and keep on fighting.
Garrett is a gosh darn dreamboat.
September 15, 2024
4,5 'kissing in the rain' stars
I didn't like Garrett and Perry as much as other couples but this series is still among the top of my favorites. And I'm still in love with the worldbuilding and the plot. The only thing that bothered me was Perry. I like strong and independent heroines but not when they are acting foolishly. I understand that she is not comfortable with relying on anybody. Her past made her believe that she can only count on herself. However, not wanting Garrett's help was just simply stupid. Especially, because in her eyes she was saving him. Bullshit, with his sky-high CV levels he is the last person in need of protection.
But apart of Perry's annoying heroism, I was very much enjoying the story. Garrett really grow on me. I added him to my collection of Steampunk book boyfriends. They are all there - Blade, Will, Lynch, Leo and now Garrett. And I think Byrnes is on a good way to join the rest. Yeah, I made myself quite a harem. What can I say, they are all so deliciously good in bed. Or on a balcony in the middle of the storm. Because that scene with Garrett and Perry kissing in the rain was scorching hot. Well, it was much more than just kissing but fucking in the rain doesn't sound romantic at all. And don't get me started with finding a gif for that. So, here's kissing in the rain.
The last chapter was... wow, so perfect. I can't wait to see how this mess will untangle. And finally Leo's book. I just know it will be amazing. Also, I'm very curious about the spin-off. We already met a lot of characters that will get leading roles in the spin-off (Byrnes, Ava, Ingrid, Charlie, Duke of Malloryn). I'm so excited.
5 'beautiful, dangerous, wicked, dark' stars ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
5 'cute' stars ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
5 'golden' stars ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
5 buttons stars ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
4 'Intermezzo' stars ⭐⭐⭐⭐
4,5 'kissing in the rain' stars ⭐⭐⭐⭐/⭐
5 'revolutionary' stars ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
I didn't like Garrett and Perry as much as other couples but this series is still among the top of my favorites. And I'm still in love with the worldbuilding and the plot. The only thing that bothered me was Perry. I like strong and independent heroines but not when they are acting foolishly. I understand that she is not comfortable with relying on anybody. Her past made her believe that she can only count on herself. However, not wanting Garrett's help was just simply stupid. Especially, because in her eyes she was saving him. Bullshit, with his sky-high CV levels he is the last person in need of protection.
But apart of Perry's annoying heroism, I was very much enjoying the story. Garrett really grow on me. I added him to my collection of Steampunk book boyfriends. They are all there - Blade, Will, Lynch, Leo and now Garrett. And I think Byrnes is on a good way to join the rest. Yeah, I made myself quite a harem. What can I say, they are all so deliciously good in bed. Or on a balcony in the middle of the storm. Because that scene with Garrett and Perry kissing in the rain was scorching hot. Well, it was much more than just kissing but fucking in the rain doesn't sound romantic at all. And don't get me started with finding a gif for that. So, here's kissing in the rain.
The last chapter was... wow, so perfect. I can't wait to see how this mess will untangle. And finally Leo's book. I just know it will be amazing. Also, I'm very curious about the spin-off. We already met a lot of characters that will get leading roles in the spin-off (Byrnes, Ava, Ingrid, Charlie, Duke of Malloryn). I'm so excited.
5 'beautiful, dangerous, wicked, dark' stars ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
5 'cute' stars ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
5 'golden' stars ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
5
4 'Intermezzo' stars ⭐⭐⭐⭐
4,5 'kissing in the rain' stars ⭐⭐⭐⭐/⭐
5 'revolutionary' stars ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
August 25, 2014
Reviewed by: Rabid Reads - 3.5 stars.
I love this series for its Steampunk elements, swoon worthy romances, and Bec McMaster’s beautiful writing style. I know that tears are forthcoming every time I pick-up a new installment because this author has a real knack for making me feel invested in the characters, and for tugging at my heartstrings. FORGED BY DESIRE was an enjoyable read, albeit not my favourite LONDON STEAMPUNK novel because of its rather uneventful first half; the story felt like it was divided into two parts instead of being one cohesive story.
Up to this point, readers haven’t gotten to spend much time with Garrett and Perry, so a large portion of this installment was dedicated to developing their characters, and on growing their relationship. Now, that’s pretty standard procedure in Paranormal Romance, but in this instance it didn’t really work for me; the unrequited love grew tiring after a while as did all of the secrets. I probably wouldn’t have butted heads with these elements nearly as much as I did had they been woven into the main story arc instead of having had to trudge through chapters and chapters of angst in order to get to the point. Once the main plot kicked in, I quickly remembered why I adore this series, but unfortunately it just took a heck of a long time to get there.
I liked the political intrigue that the Echelon brought to this tale with dukes, and even the prince consort himself involved, things were sure to get interesting. The murder mystery starts out small, but as things progressed it became apparent that there were larger schemes in play, and that things weren’t quite what they seemed. By the end of this book, I felt like this series’ main story arc was on the verge of being resolved. I have no idea how many installments are planned or whether the author is going to simply take LONDON STEAMPUNK in a new direction, but regardless I can tell you this—OF SILK AND STEAM will be a must read! March 2015, mark your calendars.
Perry’s character was a bit problematic for me; I didn’t exactly dislike her per say, she just wasn’t overly memorable either. Her Nighthawks persona didn’t jive with her past, and I had difficulty making the switch from heroine to victim. Garrett on the other hand was absolutely brilliant! I loved when his Blue blood half reared its primal head, and Reed’s borderline obsession to Miss Lowell was charming—tracking beacon and all! I enjoyed the slow burn romance, although I wish that they would have A) gotten it on sooner or B) been better incorporated into the plot line. Lynch & Rosalind, the characters from book 3, played pretty significant roles in this novel, and the rest of the LONDON STEAMPUNK cast also make brief cameos. The whole gang together at last!
Bec McMaster delivered another Steampunk-erific installment with FORGED BY DESIRE!
I love this series for its Steampunk elements, swoon worthy romances, and Bec McMaster’s beautiful writing style. I know that tears are forthcoming every time I pick-up a new installment because this author has a real knack for making me feel invested in the characters, and for tugging at my heartstrings. FORGED BY DESIRE was an enjoyable read, albeit not my favourite LONDON STEAMPUNK novel because of its rather uneventful first half; the story felt like it was divided into two parts instead of being one cohesive story.
Up to this point, readers haven’t gotten to spend much time with Garrett and Perry, so a large portion of this installment was dedicated to developing their characters, and on growing their relationship. Now, that’s pretty standard procedure in Paranormal Romance, but in this instance it didn’t really work for me; the unrequited love grew tiring after a while as did all of the secrets. I probably wouldn’t have butted heads with these elements nearly as much as I did had they been woven into the main story arc instead of having had to trudge through chapters and chapters of angst in order to get to the point. Once the main plot kicked in, I quickly remembered why I adore this series, but unfortunately it just took a heck of a long time to get there.
I liked the political intrigue that the Echelon brought to this tale with dukes, and even the prince consort himself involved, things were sure to get interesting. The murder mystery starts out small, but as things progressed it became apparent that there were larger schemes in play, and that things weren’t quite what they seemed. By the end of this book, I felt like this series’ main story arc was on the verge of being resolved. I have no idea how many installments are planned or whether the author is going to simply take LONDON STEAMPUNK in a new direction, but regardless I can tell you this—OF SILK AND STEAM will be a must read! March 2015, mark your calendars.
Perry’s character was a bit problematic for me; I didn’t exactly dislike her per say, she just wasn’t overly memorable either. Her Nighthawks persona didn’t jive with her past, and I had difficulty making the switch from heroine to victim. Garrett on the other hand was absolutely brilliant! I loved when his Blue blood half reared its primal head, and Reed’s borderline obsession to Miss Lowell was charming—tracking beacon and all! I enjoyed the slow burn romance, although I wish that they would have A) gotten it on sooner or B) been better incorporated into the plot line. Lynch & Rosalind, the characters from book 3, played pretty significant roles in this novel, and the rest of the LONDON STEAMPUNK cast also make brief cameos. The whole gang together at last!
Bec McMaster delivered another Steampunk-erific installment with FORGED BY DESIRE!
May 31, 2020
Having met Garrett and Perry and seeing a little glimpses of them in the previous books, this story gives them a chance to develop their unrequited love. The prequel, The Curious Case of the Clockwork Menance provides their pairing, a beginning of something. Forged by Desire expands that something.
Garrett, now the commander of the Nighthawks was a thorough rake. But things change, his developing feelings and a responsibility which he never aspired for. Adding to his problems his rising bloodlust.
Perry is a member of Nighthawk. She tries to maintain a professional relationship with Garrett. Her horrific past and feelings for Garrett makes her do unthinkable things. The self-confident woman changed to be reckless.
When girls started going missing and their bodies discovered with missing parts Garrett and Perry sets out to investigate this case. This case somehow relates to Perry's past; we see a different side of Perry where she is vulnerable. Her new life seemed no longer safe the monsters of her past has finally caught up to her. Garrett seems to see Perry in a new way. Both of them are hiding their feelings for each other. This dance between them did get a little irritating to me and I wanted something more from them. There is so much action and mystery in this book that I enjoyed the secrets unveiling with them. The romance was never overshadowed. Although this is not my favourite story I can't stop to leave a praise for the book. This book was another "steal my bits and pieces" read.
Garrett, now the commander of the Nighthawks was a thorough rake. But things change, his developing feelings and a responsibility which he never aspired for. Adding to his problems his rising bloodlust.
Perry is a member of Nighthawk. She tries to maintain a professional relationship with Garrett. Her horrific past and feelings for Garrett makes her do unthinkable things. The self-confident woman changed to be reckless.
When girls started going missing and their bodies discovered with missing parts Garrett and Perry sets out to investigate this case. This case somehow relates to Perry's past; we see a different side of Perry where she is vulnerable. Her new life seemed no longer safe the monsters of her past has finally caught up to her. Garrett seems to see Perry in a new way. Both of them are hiding their feelings for each other. This dance between them did get a little irritating to me and I wanted something more from them. There is so much action and mystery in this book that I enjoyed the secrets unveiling with them. The romance was never overshadowed. Although this is not my favourite story I can't stop to leave a praise for the book. This book was another "steal my bits and pieces" read.
June 2, 2017
Forged by Desire
3 Stars
A respected member of the Nighthawks, Perry Lowell has worked hard for nine years to maintain a professional relationship with her partner, Garrett Reed. But when the bodies of two young girls are found with horrific injuries, the nightmares from Perry's past return to haunt her daylight hours, and she will have to confront the evil that she once managed to escape if she is to have a future with the man she loves.
Oy!
The prequel novella to this installment, The Curious Case of the Clockwork Menace provides the intriguing background to Garrett and Perry's partnership and establishes the incredible chemistry that they share.
Unfortunately, it is all ultimately for naught as the captivating tension of their friends-to-lovers relationship devolves into something bland and lifeless.
Perry's most appealing traits in the previous books, i.e., her incredible self-confidence and her kick-ass personality, disappear completely, and she turns into a whiny little b*tch who runs at the first sign of trouble.
Similarly, Garrett goes from charming rake to ineffectual leader and lover in the blink of an eye. He suffers in comparison to the other alpha heroes in the series as he in never convincing as either the new master of the Nighthawks nor as Perry's knight in shining armor.
The Jack the Ripper type mystery has potential, but intertwining it with Perry's past undermines its efficacy as the focus shifts from the details of the case to Perry's personal issues, which fail to evoke any elements of tension or suspense. The villains are cookie-cutter caricatures and all that is missing are the twirling mustaches.
The intricate world building, minor developments in the ongoing Echelon dystopia storylines as well as the cameo appearances by previous couples are the book's only saving graces.
Hopefully the final installment will provide a more satisfying romance as well as a cohesive conclusion to story arc.
3 Stars
A respected member of the Nighthawks, Perry Lowell has worked hard for nine years to maintain a professional relationship with her partner, Garrett Reed. But when the bodies of two young girls are found with horrific injuries, the nightmares from Perry's past return to haunt her daylight hours, and she will have to confront the evil that she once managed to escape if she is to have a future with the man she loves.
Oy!
The prequel novella to this installment, The Curious Case of the Clockwork Menace provides the intriguing background to Garrett and Perry's partnership and establishes the incredible chemistry that they share.
Unfortunately, it is all ultimately for naught as the captivating tension of their friends-to-lovers relationship devolves into something bland and lifeless.
Perry's most appealing traits in the previous books, i.e., her incredible self-confidence and her kick-ass personality, disappear completely, and she turns into a whiny little b*tch who runs at the first sign of trouble.
Similarly, Garrett goes from charming rake to ineffectual leader and lover in the blink of an eye. He suffers in comparison to the other alpha heroes in the series as he in never convincing as either the new master of the Nighthawks nor as Perry's knight in shining armor.
The Jack the Ripper type mystery has potential, but intertwining it with Perry's past undermines its efficacy as the focus shifts from the details of the case to Perry's personal issues, which fail to evoke any elements of tension or suspense. The villains are cookie-cutter caricatures and all that is missing are the twirling mustaches.
The intricate world building, minor developments in the ongoing Echelon dystopia storylines as well as the cameo appearances by previous couples are the book's only saving graces.
Hopefully the final installment will provide a more satisfying romance as well as a cohesive conclusion to story arc.
November 9, 2018
So. Good.
This series has been incredibly entertaining. I think this book has had the best villain in the series and I love that the progression of the story arc is bringing all the previous couples together. The last scene has me really excited for the next book so I'm sure I'll be starting it soon : )
This series has been incredibly entertaining. I think this book has had the best villain in the series and I love that the progression of the story arc is bringing all the previous couples together. The last scene has me really excited for the next book so I'm sure I'll be starting it soon : )
September 11, 2014
4,5 stars
I love this series! Really!!! It's wonderful and so very, very interesting! I end each book wanting greedely to read the next one immediately! Unfortunately I have to wait... sigh...
I loved this story, but I took half star from 5, because Perry dragged too much her secrets.
I was thinking of her as the Nighthawk: without fear and fierce, insdead she was a knot of contradictions. Outside she is how I saw her, but inside she's a teribly afraid teenager. It could be seen as logical seeing what she's gone through, but I found it irritating.
Moreover because her fears were not for herself but because she wanted to protect Garret! Now, if Garret was a weak human fop, I could understand it, but Garret is the Master Nighthawk, for goodness sake!
Obviously, Garret is not an idiot either, so he undercovers her secrets, but insead of doing what Perry has feared, he reacts in a very intelligent and rational way. So, Perry's secrets are proved false jus as I was thinking since the start.
So, I fault her for not being intelligent enough to understand it herself.
But, I still loved the story enough that this become a minor disturbance. By that you can understand how good this seires is! ;)
I'm so very much looking forward to the next book! I have great expectations for Leo and Aramina! I cannot wait to read their story!
I love this series! Really!!! It's wonderful and so very, very interesting! I end each book wanting greedely to read the next one immediately! Unfortunately I have to wait... sigh...
I loved this story, but I took half star from 5, because Perry dragged too much her secrets.
I was thinking of her as the Nighthawk: without fear and fierce, insdead she was a knot of contradictions. Outside she is how I saw her, but inside she's a teribly afraid teenager. It could be seen as logical seeing what she's gone through, but I found it irritating.
Moreover because her fears were not for herself but because she wanted to protect Garret! Now, if Garret was a weak human fop, I could understand it, but Garret is the Master Nighthawk, for goodness sake!
Obviously, Garret is not an idiot either, so he undercovers her secrets, but insead of doing what Perry has feared, he reacts in a very intelligent and rational way. So, Perry's secrets are proved false jus as I was thinking since the start.
So, I fault her for not being intelligent enough to understand it herself.
But, I still loved the story enough that this become a minor disturbance. By that you can understand how good this seires is! ;)
I'm so very much looking forward to the next book! I have great expectations for Leo and Aramina! I cannot wait to read their story!
May 24, 2014
Only rated it because I can't figure out how to write a post here otherwise (:
Here's the first chapter, if anyone wants to read it and get a feel for the series:
http://www.becmcmaster.com/2014/05/24...
Here's the first chapter, if anyone wants to read it and get a feel for the series:
http://www.becmcmaster.com/2014/05/24...
March 5, 2018
Do you enjoy romance? Are you a fan of vampires? Well if you said yes to either if those then you have to read this series. This is the fourth full length novel and do not be put off by the steampunk world it's set in as this author has an amazing way with words that truly brings this story to life. Not the normal vampire story but something incredibly well crafted set in a dark world full of greed and hypocrisy . Pick up this book and be prepared to ignore everything else because once you start you won't want to put it down .
This starts off in a strange way if I'm honest. There's the fact that Garrett has been made acting commander of the Nighthawks which he is eminently suited for but it's not a role that he ever aspired to. Then to add to his problems there's his rising bloodlust which seems triggered by his long term partner Perry. Garrett is seeng Perry in a whole new light and it's something he is more than willing to explore but Perry is a woman rife with contradictions and has secrets that she fears to share with anyone .
It would seem that there could well be a serial killer stalking the streets and it's somehow tied to the Echelon. Girls are going missing and when bodies are discovered it's up to Garrett and his team of Nighthawks to discover just who is responsible . Together with Perry he sets out to investigate but rumours of a steel jawed monster cause Perry to fear her past is about to catch up with her. She has remained hidden in plain sight for all this time, is it possible her carefully crafted new life is about to come crashing down? There's a madman out there and no one is safe . Garrett and Perry are both hiding things from each other but they can only prevail if they do the unthinkable , trust each other!
So I'm a little on the fence with this one. I adore this authors work and think her world building is first class. As I read I can picture so much in my minds eye that it's a startlingly vivid piece of writing. I'm loving all the intrigue and political machinations and as usual there's a bad guy to boo and hiss at, I do love a well written villain. It's a passionate dance the our hero and heroine treat us to but sometimes I just wanted slightly more from them. Perry has had feelings for Garrett for so long that I just wanted her to grab him and go for it! As usual with this author every page is a joy to read and I just love the dialogue that her characters share . As for those characters it was lovely to see what previous heroes and heroines were up to and I can't wait for the next book as things are setting up for a glorious showdown . The pace was a little slow initially for me but when this story got going I felt like I was on a ride like no other. This is a wonderful series and always a must read. Get this book and you will be hooked!
This starts off in a strange way if I'm honest. There's the fact that Garrett has been made acting commander of the Nighthawks which he is eminently suited for but it's not a role that he ever aspired to. Then to add to his problems there's his rising bloodlust which seems triggered by his long term partner Perry. Garrett is seeng Perry in a whole new light and it's something he is more than willing to explore but Perry is a woman rife with contradictions and has secrets that she fears to share with anyone .
It would seem that there could well be a serial killer stalking the streets and it's somehow tied to the Echelon. Girls are going missing and when bodies are discovered it's up to Garrett and his team of Nighthawks to discover just who is responsible . Together with Perry he sets out to investigate but rumours of a steel jawed monster cause Perry to fear her past is about to catch up with her. She has remained hidden in plain sight for all this time, is it possible her carefully crafted new life is about to come crashing down? There's a madman out there and no one is safe . Garrett and Perry are both hiding things from each other but they can only prevail if they do the unthinkable , trust each other!
So I'm a little on the fence with this one. I adore this authors work and think her world building is first class. As I read I can picture so much in my minds eye that it's a startlingly vivid piece of writing. I'm loving all the intrigue and political machinations and as usual there's a bad guy to boo and hiss at, I do love a well written villain. It's a passionate dance the our hero and heroine treat us to but sometimes I just wanted slightly more from them. Perry has had feelings for Garrett for so long that I just wanted her to grab him and go for it! As usual with this author every page is a joy to read and I just love the dialogue that her characters share . As for those characters it was lovely to see what previous heroes and heroines were up to and I can't wait for the next book as things are setting up for a glorious showdown . The pace was a little slow initially for me but when this story got going I felt like I was on a ride like no other. This is a wonderful series and always a must read. Get this book and you will be hooked!
September 10, 2018
Great except for a flawed heroine whom I couldn't excuse.
So this was a typical London Steampunk page turner! Great characters and great action! Love, love this series. HOWEVER - Perry, Perry, where was your pragmatism, your bravery and your commitment to duty? Her secrets buried her heroism, and in my opinion, very nearly made her culpable in future murders. Not what I wanted out of a mature heroine with 9 years of Nighthawks duty behind her. But still a great entry in the series and better than a lot of what I read! Thank you, Bec McMaster for breaking my book slump! On to Of Silk and Steam....
So this was a typical London Steampunk page turner! Great characters and great action! Love, love this series. HOWEVER - Perry, Perry, where was your pragmatism, your bravery and your commitment to duty? Her secrets buried her heroism, and in my opinion, very nearly made her culpable in future murders. Not what I wanted out of a mature heroine with 9 years of Nighthawks duty behind her. But still a great entry in the series and better than a lot of what I read! Thank you, Bec McMaster for breaking my book slump! On to Of Silk and Steam....
December 15, 2022
Forged by Desire is the fourth book in the London Steampunk series. In my opinion, this book was a bit underwhelming. I expected more from Garret and Perry’s book given that they’ve known each other for ten years.
Instead of a good romance book that I expected, this became a suspense and thriller book.
I know the job of the Nighthawks is to investigate crimes and catch the perpetrator but it took almost the whole book.
There was just way too many things happening in this book that they didn't have time for each other.
So, it wasn't a bad book, but it was not what I wanted in a paranormal romance.
I finally got to know Perry's history and how she ended up in the Nighthawks and it's way scarier than I would have thought.
This book explored more about the Echelon politics and how almost everyone dislikes the Prince Consort.
All in all, it was an okay book.
Instead of a good romance book that I expected, this became a suspense and thriller book.
I know the job of the Nighthawks is to investigate crimes and catch the perpetrator but it took almost the whole book.
There was just way too many things happening in this book that they didn't have time for each other.
So, it wasn't a bad book, but it was not what I wanted in a paranormal romance.
I finally got to know Perry's history and how she ended up in the Nighthawks and it's way scarier than I would have thought.
This book explored more about the Echelon politics and how almost everyone dislikes the Prince Consort.
All in all, it was an okay book.
February 23, 2018
Ooph, released yesterday and I stayed up really late last night to finish it, even though today is NOT the day I need to be lacking in sleep. SO, yeah, if you can't tell, it was kinda good. i like this book and i love this series.
March 17, 2018
I really liked Perry and Garrett. Another solid entry in this series that has become a favorite on mine!
February 23, 2021
Story’s good but Perry and her constant stupid decisions drove me nuts.
February 17, 2018
Fantastic world building, political games, duels, dashing heroes, intelligent heroines, solid storylines, and steamy romances...The London Steampunk series just gets better and better!
September 11, 2014
Book four in the London Steampunk series features the Nighthawk gaurds, Perry and Garret. Both smart and deadly in their own rights, these two paired together make one killer investigative team. However, neither one ever believed that the two of them could be something more than just partners at work. Yet that is exactly what happens. When adrenaline and lust mix together, Perry and Garret will find it difficult to fight their desire.
FORGED BY DESIRE is definitely one of my favorite books this year and definitely one of my favorites of the series. There’s just something unique about Bec McMaster’s writing. Not only is the book lush with details and worldbuilding, but the characters are all well-developed and realistic as well. There is so much to love about the leads in this story. Perry is a wonderful heroine who continues to deny her attraction for Garret and will continue to do so until her dying breath. Not one to show weakness, Perry proves that her will is strong, but her passion for Garret runs deeper than she thought before.
Similarly, Garret proves to be a worthy hero for Perry. Despite how much he wants to resist her for her own safety, their bond that they have created while working together over the years has transformed into something else entirely and that is the basis in which McMaster works with when building their romance. If you’re a fan of Kresley Cole’s No Rest for the Wicked, then you’ll definitely enjoy the chase of this book.
Another thing that must be mentioned is the romance. Passion has rarely reached this limit in other books I’ve read. McMaster really has outdone herself with this one. With the action and mystery still a major part of this book, the romance never once gets overshadowed and that, I think, is a skill of balance that not many authors can manage.
FORGED BY DESIRE combines action, mystery and fiery romance in a spellbinding way. I couldn’t put this book down and only yearned for more once I was through with it. This is a definite must read for everyone!
FORGED BY DESIRE is definitely one of my favorite books this year and definitely one of my favorites of the series. There’s just something unique about Bec McMaster’s writing. Not only is the book lush with details and worldbuilding, but the characters are all well-developed and realistic as well. There is so much to love about the leads in this story. Perry is a wonderful heroine who continues to deny her attraction for Garret and will continue to do so until her dying breath. Not one to show weakness, Perry proves that her will is strong, but her passion for Garret runs deeper than she thought before.
Similarly, Garret proves to be a worthy hero for Perry. Despite how much he wants to resist her for her own safety, their bond that they have created while working together over the years has transformed into something else entirely and that is the basis in which McMaster works with when building their romance. If you’re a fan of Kresley Cole’s No Rest for the Wicked, then you’ll definitely enjoy the chase of this book.
Another thing that must be mentioned is the romance. Passion has rarely reached this limit in other books I’ve read. McMaster really has outdone herself with this one. With the action and mystery still a major part of this book, the romance never once gets overshadowed and that, I think, is a skill of balance that not many authors can manage.
FORGED BY DESIRE combines action, mystery and fiery romance in a spellbinding way. I couldn’t put this book down and only yearned for more once I was through with it. This is a definite must read for everyone!
July 24, 2015
As a collective work, this series is a great one. Bec McMaster is a great storyteller. She has created dark, gritty, memorable world with the London Steampunk series. It’s quite unique and stands out in the historical paranormal romance genre. This installment in the series is a solid addition to the series, it’s not quite one of my favorites but it definitely a good story overall.
We pick up this story not too long after MY LADY QUICKSILVER ends. Lynch and Garrett are at odds due to his role in helping Rosalind. Lynch has left a large hole to fill and while Garrett is the obvious person to lead the Nighthawks but he is having a hard time getting total buy in. He has a lot on his plate and when his long term partner Perry starts acting strangely he is worried and doesn’t know what to do, on top of that he has his own rising problems outside of his leadership. Perry and Garrett need to work together on one of their most difficult cases of their careers, one that is striking too close to home for Perry that seriously has her thinking if it’s time to cut her losses and get out of town. Only her love of Garrett is keeping her there. McMaster takes us through the twists and turns of the London Underworld. These two must work together to save girls that have been going missing around the city, as the danger increases so does their desire. It soon becomes too much keep contain it. This may be one of McMaster’s more steamy novels as the desire between these two friends builds and builds until it combusts off the pages. Be prepared to take a wild ride through Bec McMasters world!
We pick up this story not too long after MY LADY QUICKSILVER ends. Lynch and Garrett are at odds due to his role in helping Rosalind. Lynch has left a large hole to fill and while Garrett is the obvious person to lead the Nighthawks but he is having a hard time getting total buy in. He has a lot on his plate and when his long term partner Perry starts acting strangely he is worried and doesn’t know what to do, on top of that he has his own rising problems outside of his leadership. Perry and Garrett need to work together on one of their most difficult cases of their careers, one that is striking too close to home for Perry that seriously has her thinking if it’s time to cut her losses and get out of town. Only her love of Garrett is keeping her there. McMaster takes us through the twists and turns of the London Underworld. These two must work together to save girls that have been going missing around the city, as the danger increases so does their desire. It soon becomes too much keep contain it. This may be one of McMaster’s more steamy novels as the desire between these two friends builds and builds until it combusts off the pages. Be prepared to take a wild ride through Bec McMasters world!
April 8, 2017
7/4/2017
3.75 stars.
Perry is possibly my favourite female character in this series. She's such a complete badass, she's been through a crapton of horrible things and she's still fighting. Yes, there was a lot of slightly annoying "I CAN'T TELL YOU" stuff where a solution could have been reached much sooner if people had only used their freaking words.
But it was still a hell of a lot of fun, and I still really enjoyed the ending and all the characters coming together to develop one hell of a plan.
10/12/2014
When I read My Lady Quicksilver a few weeks ago, I was more interested in the relationship between Perry and Garrett than I was by the actual main characters. So I was pretty excited that this focused on them. That said, if it weren't for the ending, this would have been 3.5 stars.
The romance side of things was slow burning, with moments of steaminess throughout. Perry's past was intriguing, though there were several times when I was left wishing that she'd just Use Her Words and tell Garrett her secrets rather than being all "NO. CAN'T." over and over again.
The big climax, though, was fabulous. Perry gets to face her fears, and we FINALLY get movement on the political front, as well as all the main characters from the four books banding together with a big plan to change things politically. In short, I enjoyed this and I can't wait to see how the series gets wrapped up in book 5 in a few months!
3.75 stars.
Perry is possibly my favourite female character in this series. She's such a complete badass, she's been through a crapton of horrible things and she's still fighting. Yes, there was a lot of slightly annoying "I CAN'T TELL YOU" stuff where a solution could have been reached much sooner if people had only used their freaking words.
But it was still a hell of a lot of fun, and I still really enjoyed the ending and all the characters coming together to develop one hell of a plan.
10/12/2014
When I read My Lady Quicksilver a few weeks ago, I was more interested in the relationship between Perry and Garrett than I was by the actual main characters. So I was pretty excited that this focused on them. That said, if it weren't for the ending, this would have been 3.5 stars.
The romance side of things was slow burning, with moments of steaminess throughout. Perry's past was intriguing, though there were several times when I was left wishing that she'd just Use Her Words and tell Garrett her secrets rather than being all "NO. CAN'T." over and over again.
The big climax, though, was fabulous. Perry gets to face her fears, and we FINALLY get movement on the political front, as well as all the main characters from the four books banding together with a big plan to change things politically. In short, I enjoyed this and I can't wait to see how the series gets wrapped up in book 5 in a few months!
May 20, 2017
THIS is the way to do friends-to-lovers! Yeah, Perry figured it out way before Garret did, but it wasn't really pining. And she had reasons for not going for it. It felt thoughtful.
I finished this a week ago, so I don't have much more to say, but ohhh, some parts of it really drew me in.
I finished this a week ago, so I don't have much more to say, but ohhh, some parts of it really drew me in.
October 14, 2015
It was a bit slow at first and Perry annoyed me with her secrets. It took her forever to trust Garrett with the truth. The writing is, once more, excellent though and the story captivating.
May 11, 2016
3.5/5; 4 stars; B+
The romance in this book was my least favorite aspect to it but the I really enjoyed the mystery and the progression of the overall story arc in the series.
The romance in this book was my least favorite aspect to it but the I really enjoyed the mystery and the progression of the overall story arc in the series.
June 12, 2018
4.5 Stars... Once again, Bec McMaster takes her readers into the heart of the supernatural where she creates a dynamic story of mystery, romance, friendship, and political maneuvering with characters that are equally complex and intriguing... Perry and Garrett fight their attraction, one another, and a whole new brand of evil as they face their pasts and choose their futures... The chemistry between these characters was intense and frustrating at times, but solid in it’s roots of friendship, loyalty, and trust... I really enjoyed watching both Perry and Garrett come full circle overcoming fears and instituting their own brand of courage to lay their pasts to rest.... Eagerly anticipating the final story in this series and witnessing how all these connections come together to battle oppression in the pending war:)
February 4, 2019
Moncrieff was an excellent villain. He was very demented. Perry and Garrett were good together. They had great chemistry. I probably wouldn't have liked them as much if I hadn't read the novella that took place a few years before this book. It annoyed the hell out of me that Perry withheld so much pertinent information from Garrett. She should have trusted him enough to tell him the truth. Part of what was unforgivable about her keeping secrets was that she had highly relevant information about the case they were working on and didn't tell anyone.
October 9, 2020
4.5*
I had forgotten how good this series is.... How could I?
I had forgotten how good this series is.... How could I?
March 25, 2021
The 4th entry in the London Steampunk series which we are really enjoying! This book shifts focus to Garrett and Perry. The major trope here is friends to lovers. Perry's had a longstanding crush (9 years, people!) on Garrett that she has kept buried beneath her professional demeanor, while Garrett has only recently figured out that Perry is the one for him. (P.S. They're both vampires so think of "the one" as fated mates or soulmates or whatever. Yeah it's dumb, yeah we love it.) Neither of them want to jeopardize their friendship by revealing that they have Feelings for each other.
Added to that, after the events of the last novel (My Lady Quicksilver - which we LOVED), Garrett has received a promotion to commander of the Nighthawks. This has implications for a lot of things, but there are two that are especially tough for Garrett: he and Perry have been partners for years, but he's now her boss; and Garrett's old boss isn't around to provide support and mentorship. As for Perry, events from the past she has tried to escape have returned in the form of a new case.
We liked this book, but didn't love it as much as the last entry in the series. The denouement, though, continues the tradition of the dramatic duel leading to future revelations and WE LOVED IT. We are SO ready to read the next book!
Meg's 32-Word Summary: Perry’s hopelessly in love with Garrett, but she was just another colleague to him … until she showed up looking good in a red dress and they foiled a terrorist attack together.
Laine's 32-Word Summary: The only female mercenary has a secret past as a lady and is totally in love with her new boss and he FINALLY sees her as a desirable woman but is dying?
www.linktr.ee/plottrysts
Added to that, after the events of the last novel (My Lady Quicksilver - which we LOVED), Garrett has received a promotion to commander of the Nighthawks. This has implications for a lot of things, but there are two that are especially tough for Garrett: he and Perry have been partners for years, but he's now her boss; and Garrett's old boss isn't around to provide support and mentorship. As for Perry, events from the past she has tried to escape have returned in the form of a new case.
We liked this book, but didn't love it as much as the last entry in the series. The denouement, though, continues the tradition of the dramatic duel leading to future revelations and WE LOVED IT. We are SO ready to read the next book!
Meg's 32-Word Summary: Perry’s hopelessly in love with Garrett, but she was just another colleague to him … until she showed up looking good in a red dress and they foiled a terrorist attack together.
Laine's 32-Word Summary: The only female mercenary has a secret past as a lady and is totally in love with her new boss and he FINALLY sees her as a desirable woman but is dying?
www.linktr.ee/plottrysts
September 1, 2014
A friends to lovers romance set against the scintillating backdrop of a paranormal steampunk London world...sigh. It's sheer bliss to pick up each new installment in this series and know that I'm going to experience a story on a visceral level and not just read it. It hasn't mattered who the main characters are or what their particular trouble is; I still sigh, cry, laugh and barely breath in turn. The latest installment was no different though I have to tell you some uber-stubborness was frowned upon even though I did understand the motive behind it.
This book is the fourth novel in an exciting series that has stayed strong throughout. I think it would be a mistake to read it out of order because of the elaborate world-building, overall story arc and recurring characters with their ongoing plots appearing in the story.
This story opens with Garrett now the Master of the Nighthawks after Lynch stepped down and he is struggling. He doubts his leadership abilities, he has subordinates that are giving him a hard time, a new brutal murder case has come up, he struggles with the craving virus that has increased since his near-death injuries from the case before and still, it is the thing he feels for his partner of nine years, Perry, that distracts him the most. Ever since their last case when he saw her gowned as a beautiful, poised woman and she playfully nearly seduced him before stepping back, he has realized that he never saw Perry for who and what she was before. Now instead of just his partner, she is a woman that he wants more than the blood he craves, but Perry has hidden herself behind that emotional wall she has kept up since he has known her. There is no getting past that wall to know the real her except that peek she gave him at the theater. But now they can't run around avoiding each other, a fiend is loose in the East End.
Perry reinvented herself when she came to the Nighthawks and Lynch took her in. She suppressed her female traits and worked as hard or harder to prove herself than all the male Nighthawks. Becoming strong and eliminating any weaknesses has also helped her keep the nightmare of her past at bay along with keeping her oblivious yet still observant partner from discovering her feelings for him while he still only thinks of her as partner and friend. Now, though, she is brutally shocked to see the evidence that two monsters from her past have resurfaced. One is likely the murdering fiend they seek while the other is playing a devilish game of his own that she fears will come back on her. She must find a way to lead the Nighthawks toward a solution to the case without imparting anything about her past and she must fight off Garrett's newly awakened and untrustworthy feelings for her for his own protection as well as her own.
Each book tackles a different type of problem though all are tied together too by the growing power threat of the Prince Consort and about the characters personal fight with the craving virus. This one was less of an all hands on deck battle type of problem and more a personal war so it had a different feel to it. The virus and the political rumblings are there in the background, but this case was about the nightmare from Perry's past resurfacing. The set up for this one had a mad scientist laboratory/experiment on human subjects part that totally had me squicking out because that sort of thing is my horror show kryptonite. I was also totally engaged in getting the whole of Perry's secret past and boy, was it a doozy. The villains are both scary and powerful. I was holding my breath through many well written suspense and action scenes. The final climactic scene was strong and had my flipping pages so fast to see how it would end.
The romance side of things was probably the most prominent theme of the plot though it barely worked for me. This made me sad because I really wanted it to work because I liked the hero and heroine since they were introduced. It was a long developing one and I wasn't sure if the story would end before they got their act together. Though once it finally got rolling, it was pretty explosive. Garrett could make Perry's body just hum. They were a passionate pair, but were also pretty awesome as working partners too. The tension between Garrett and Perry just kept ratcheting up tighter and tighter until I was actually past patience with them- particularly Perry. Her 'doomed Juliet dying airs' mental monologue and behavior had me twitchy to smack her. I hate it when tough female characters somehow morph into ninnies when its their turn to be the romance heroine. She's loved the guy for nine years and when he finally comes to his senses? She dinks around for the whole book until...yeah, you guest it 'too late' she bewails. She blew hot and cold. Garrett did all the chasing and one-sided romance just doesn't work for me.
And speaking of Perry. She was really the lead role in the book and she drove me nearly insane much of the time. She was all to pieces, but made the mistake of honestly believing she had it under control. I'm not talking about her very real and legitimate fear of the monsters from her past. I totally got that and would have thought she was odd if she didn't freak out when they reappeared. No, my issue with her was the way she handled her relationship with Garrett and how she stubbornly sat on her secrets and her emotions bringing potential harm to others. She refused to give up anything knowing the danger they faced. Garrett came clean about his secrets, but she clutched hers even tighter. He tried so hard to get her to see that she needed to trust him and the others who she has known all along to have her back, but she kept insisting on martyring herself to save others even when she barked at Garrett not to give up. Lady! You ripped his heart out. He told her that she is his anchor and reason for trying not to succumb to the craving virus so the first thing she does is a duck and run like an emotional coward. Garrett was right in a way when he accused her of using the Nighthawks and him without giving anything in return. As the reader, I was privy to her motives. I got her reasons; I really did, but it didn't mean I agreed with them.
This last stuff makes it sound like I didn't enjoy the story when for the most part I did, but lets just say that I enjoyed other heroines and romances in the series much better. I like where things are going as the series story arc is building for a big grand finale. I can't wait for what will come next after the set up in that last chapter. Those who enjoy the melding of Steampunk and Paranormal Romance should give this series a try.
My thanks to Sourcebooks Casablanca and Net Galley for the opportunity to read the book in exchange for my honest review.
This book is the fourth novel in an exciting series that has stayed strong throughout. I think it would be a mistake to read it out of order because of the elaborate world-building, overall story arc and recurring characters with their ongoing plots appearing in the story.
This story opens with Garrett now the Master of the Nighthawks after Lynch stepped down and he is struggling. He doubts his leadership abilities, he has subordinates that are giving him a hard time, a new brutal murder case has come up, he struggles with the craving virus that has increased since his near-death injuries from the case before and still, it is the thing he feels for his partner of nine years, Perry, that distracts him the most. Ever since their last case when he saw her gowned as a beautiful, poised woman and she playfully nearly seduced him before stepping back, he has realized that he never saw Perry for who and what she was before. Now instead of just his partner, she is a woman that he wants more than the blood he craves, but Perry has hidden herself behind that emotional wall she has kept up since he has known her. There is no getting past that wall to know the real her except that peek she gave him at the theater. But now they can't run around avoiding each other, a fiend is loose in the East End.
Perry reinvented herself when she came to the Nighthawks and Lynch took her in. She suppressed her female traits and worked as hard or harder to prove herself than all the male Nighthawks. Becoming strong and eliminating any weaknesses has also helped her keep the nightmare of her past at bay along with keeping her oblivious yet still observant partner from discovering her feelings for him while he still only thinks of her as partner and friend. Now, though, she is brutally shocked to see the evidence that two monsters from her past have resurfaced. One is likely the murdering fiend they seek while the other is playing a devilish game of his own that she fears will come back on her. She must find a way to lead the Nighthawks toward a solution to the case without imparting anything about her past and she must fight off Garrett's newly awakened and untrustworthy feelings for her for his own protection as well as her own.
Each book tackles a different type of problem though all are tied together too by the growing power threat of the Prince Consort and about the characters personal fight with the craving virus. This one was less of an all hands on deck battle type of problem and more a personal war so it had a different feel to it. The virus and the political rumblings are there in the background, but this case was about the nightmare from Perry's past resurfacing. The set up for this one had a mad scientist laboratory/experiment on human subjects part that totally had me squicking out because that sort of thing is my horror show kryptonite. I was also totally engaged in getting the whole of Perry's secret past and boy, was it a doozy. The villains are both scary and powerful. I was holding my breath through many well written suspense and action scenes. The final climactic scene was strong and had my flipping pages so fast to see how it would end.
The romance side of things was probably the most prominent theme of the plot though it barely worked for me. This made me sad because I really wanted it to work because I liked the hero and heroine since they were introduced. It was a long developing one and I wasn't sure if the story would end before they got their act together. Though once it finally got rolling, it was pretty explosive. Garrett could make Perry's body just hum. They were a passionate pair, but were also pretty awesome as working partners too. The tension between Garrett and Perry just kept ratcheting up tighter and tighter until I was actually past patience with them- particularly Perry. Her 'doomed Juliet dying airs' mental monologue and behavior had me twitchy to smack her. I hate it when tough female characters somehow morph into ninnies when its their turn to be the romance heroine. She's loved the guy for nine years and when he finally comes to his senses? She dinks around for the whole book until...yeah, you guest it 'too late' she bewails. She blew hot and cold. Garrett did all the chasing and one-sided romance just doesn't work for me.
And speaking of Perry. She was really the lead role in the book and she drove me nearly insane much of the time. She was all to pieces, but made the mistake of honestly believing she had it under control. I'm not talking about her very real and legitimate fear of the monsters from her past. I totally got that and would have thought she was odd if she didn't freak out when they reappeared. No, my issue with her was the way she handled her relationship with Garrett and how she stubbornly sat on her secrets and her emotions bringing potential harm to others. She refused to give up anything knowing the danger they faced. Garrett came clean about his secrets, but she clutched hers even tighter. He tried so hard to get her to see that she needed to trust him and the others who she has known all along to have her back, but she kept insisting on martyring herself to save others even when she barked at Garrett not to give up. Lady! You ripped his heart out. He told her that she is his anchor and reason for trying not to succumb to the craving virus so the first thing she does is a duck and run like an emotional coward. Garrett was right in a way when he accused her of using the Nighthawks and him without giving anything in return. As the reader, I was privy to her motives. I got her reasons; I really did, but it didn't mean I agreed with them.
This last stuff makes it sound like I didn't enjoy the story when for the most part I did, but lets just say that I enjoyed other heroines and romances in the series much better. I like where things are going as the series story arc is building for a big grand finale. I can't wait for what will come next after the set up in that last chapter. Those who enjoy the melding of Steampunk and Paranormal Romance should give this series a try.
My thanks to Sourcebooks Casablanca and Net Galley for the opportunity to read the book in exchange for my honest review.
July 18, 2018
3.5 Stars
I've loved nearly every book in this series so far, but not this one. The characters were great, but the plot execution was boring for me. I'm not big into crime novels and this was written like one, even though we know who the bad guy is the whole time. I would say this book would have been significantly improved from a culling of maybe 40%-50% of its content. Because the pacing was so slow, it took me a very long time to get through it. And I'm hesitant to read the last book in the series. I may need to just take some time off from the series.
Yes/No Checklist
Sex: Yes
Gore: Some
Rape: No
Magic: Vampirism and such
Drugs: None that come to mind
Star Categories
Romance: 3.5 Stars
Action: 3 Stars
Pacing: 2 Stars
Writing: 4 Stars
Plot: 3 Stars
Overall: 3.5 Stars
Protagonist Meter
Damsel-------*---Badass
I've loved nearly every book in this series so far, but not this one. The characters were great, but the plot execution was boring for me. I'm not big into crime novels and this was written like one, even though we know who the bad guy is the whole time. I would say this book would have been significantly improved from a culling of maybe 40%-50% of its content. Because the pacing was so slow, it took me a very long time to get through it. And I'm hesitant to read the last book in the series. I may need to just take some time off from the series.
Yes/No Checklist
Sex: Yes
Gore: Some
Rape: No
Magic: Vampirism and such
Drugs: None that come to mind
Star Categories
Romance: 3.5 Stars
Action: 3 Stars
Pacing: 2 Stars
Writing: 4 Stars
Plot: 3 Stars
Overall: 3.5 Stars
Protagonist Meter
Damsel-------*---Badass
September 1, 2014
Yep, this is definitely one of my favorite series!!
Forged by Desire is the fourth novel in the London Steampunk series and tells the story of Garrett and Perry, two Nighthawk partners we first met in My Lady Quicksilver. I’ve been anxiously awaiting their story for months now and I KNEW they would not disappoint. This was right up there with Lynch and Rosalind’s story…don’t make me pick my favorite.
Garrett is adjusting to his new position as guild Master when the Nighthawks are called in to investigate the deaths of two debutants at one of the draining factories. Garrett partners Perry with Byrnes to work the case. Nine years ago Perry escaped her life and found her way to the Nighthawks where she has proven that, as woman, she can be as capable as any of the men. When the secrets of her past start to unravel, she is determined to do what it takes to protect the man that she loves, but Garrett is fighting his own battle with the “darkness” inside him.
”You're my anchor, Perry. You're my breath when I feel like I can't catch my own. I don't think I can be strong enough to fight this alone.” ~ Garrett
I loved everything about this book! So many things…I don’t even know where to begin or how to put it all down into coherent sentences!!
The Romance: Well, we know Garrett finally saw Perry as a desirable woman at the end of My Lady Quicksilver, and I was surprised to see that neither of them could act like it never happened. Oh, they tried, but the non-stop sexual tension and banter between them was insanely sexy!! This is one couple who is perfectly right for each other and I loved seeing the journey they took from partners to friends and that final step to lovers.
"You may be able to steal my bits and pieces, but I love it when I steal your words.” ~ Perry
The Secrets: Living and working in a world surrounded by all men, Perry has never been able show the woman she really is…that person died nine years ago. The big battle between Perry and Garrett revolves around those secrets and the two can never move forward as a couple until all is revealed. Garrett is persistent in discovering that woman and making her his, but in order to do that, their biggest vulnerabilities come out…
The Mystery: It doesn’t stay a mystery for long and it’s pretty obvious who the killer is early on, but its the “why” of the killings that’s so important. Oh, it’s very interesting what the bad guy has been up to and how it all ties into Perry’s past and the future of the blue blood race.
The Twists: There were several of them that I never saw coming. I kept expecting something “expected” to happen, but it never went in the obvious, predictable direction.
The Side-Characters: All the past major couples and players make an appearance!! I love how this series ties in all the previous stories and characters, even though everyone doesn’t know each other. They are all smaller pieces of the bigger story arc which I hope finally comes to a resolution in the final book Of Silk and Steam…that will tell the story of Barrons and Aramina. It will be interesting to read about two characters of the Echelon and I can’t wait to see their role in how it all turns out.
The Revolution: It’s been building since the very beginning of the series. Its time for the Echelon to go down and it’s getting closer and closer and closer…I think.
I did read The Curious Case of the Clockwork Menace prior to reading this. It is a pre-romance story that takes place a few years prior and involves one of Garrett and Perry’s cases they worked when Perry finally started recognizing her feelings for Garrett. It can be read at any time, it doesn’t really matter, but there are a few sneaky little details that cross between their two stories.
This entire series is a MUST READ and gets better and better with each book!
Reviewed for The Blogger Girls
February 6, 2021
So, please beware of spoilers in this review:
Ok, I really loved this one, and the book was fantastic on its own too, however, I feel it’s best to read the other books in the series first. I think you get a much better feel of the dynamics between the characters if you do so, for example, long before Forged by Desire, we’d been given a visual of how the interactions between the protagonists of this book appeared to the people around them, and how it was obvious to everyone, that theirs was a unique bond. It didn’t even bother me that the heroine loved him so much longer before he’d even become aware of her as a woman. I loved how gallant he was, and we’d already seen aspects of his character in the previous book in relation with Lynch, that somehow helped round him up as a person. The villain was so aptly horrific, and the penultimate scene in which the heroine herself, challenges him was fantastic.
My only objections to all the books I’ve read in this series is that we don’t get long enough epilogues, some scenes are not properly fleshed out, and the fact that the heroine in this book,a blue blood night hawk in her own right, who’d been training for 9 years, still could not beat the hero even once. He wiped the floor with her. I wish they’d been more on par in that respect as well, hence the missing one star.
Ok, I really loved this one, and the book was fantastic on its own too, however, I feel it’s best to read the other books in the series first. I think you get a much better feel of the dynamics between the characters if you do so, for example, long before Forged by Desire, we’d been given a visual of how the interactions between the protagonists of this book appeared to the people around them, and how it was obvious to everyone, that theirs was a unique bond. It didn’t even bother me that the heroine loved him so much longer before he’d even become aware of her as a woman. I loved how gallant he was, and we’d already seen aspects of his character in the previous book in relation with Lynch, that somehow helped round him up as a person. The villain was so aptly horrific, and the penultimate scene in which the heroine herself, challenges him was fantastic.
My only objections to all the books I’ve read in this series is that we don’t get long enough epilogues, some scenes are not properly fleshed out, and the fact that the heroine in this book,a blue blood night hawk in her own right, who’d been training for 9 years, still could not beat the hero even once. He wiped the floor with her. I wish they’d been more on par in that respect as well, hence the missing one star.
August 19, 2014
FORGED BY DESIRE is perhaps the best book so far of Bec McMaster’s ingenious and original ‘London Steampunk’ series. Although all of the books in this alternative Steampunk world are excellent reads, there is an edgy grittiness to FORGED BY DESIRE that has not been as prominent in previous books of this inventive series. The world McMaster has created is reaching its stride, and more innovative storylines are coming into play in this well written, gripping story. There is the niggling issue of an investigator of Perry’s experience keeping a personal secret that ultimately hinders an investigation; as a plot device it defies logic. Still, the excellence of the storyline overall keeps the reader well invested in the story. As there is enough backstory given to catch the reader up in the ‘London Steampunk’ world, FORGED BY DESIRE can easily be read standalone.
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