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Apparatus Infernum #2
Silver Mirrors
Criminal Investigation Division inspectors Janus Mikani and Celeste Ritsuko survived their last mission, barely, but the interrupted ancient ritual released trouble. Machines and elementals go wild. An armada of united cragger pirates will attack. Mikani and Ritsuko must turn enemies to allies, fight a war on two fronts, and watch or join the love in the air.
325 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published April 29, 2014
20 people are currently reading
974 people want to read
About the author
A.A. Aguirre
3 books157 followersA.A. Aguirre is the pseudonym for Ann Aguirre & Andres Aguirre, a husband-wife writing team. She specializes in compelling characters; he excels at meticulous worldbuilding. By day, she's a bestselling novelist, and he is a pharmaceuticals tycoon.
Born in Mexico, Andres spent his early years traveling and getting in trouble everywhere else. Along the way, he got a degree from Pepperdine in economics and international business. Ann was born in the Midwest and has a degree in English Literature from Ball State.
Now settled, if not fully domesticated, Andres lives with his love, Ann, their fantastic kids, two whiny cats, and a wistful dog.
Together, they form Megatron. Or not. Actually, they write books.
Born in Mexico, Andres spent his early years traveling and getting in trouble everywhere else. Along the way, he got a degree from Pepperdine in economics and international business. Ann was born in the Midwest and has a degree in English Literature from Ball State.
Now settled, if not fully domesticated, Andres lives with his love, Ann, their fantastic kids, two whiny cats, and a wistful dog.
Together, they form Megatron. Or not. Actually, they write books.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 126 reviews
July 4, 2020
“you make my life inexpressibly exciting.”
if bronze gods is a guy ritchie sherlock holmes movie with a slower pace and fantasy elements, then its sequel is a grim indiana jones movie with magic.
the murder mystery of the previous book has been swapped with a high-stakes action-adventure. after the events in the previous book, elemental spirits and machinery all across hy braesil have been acting up. inspectors mikani and ritsuko are sent to the cold, far north by ship to investigate the cause of these problems.
they find more than their share of trouble: dangerous pirates disturbing formerly quiet trade routes, spirits wrecking steam engines, and small mountain towns on the verge of collapse. through underground tunnels and abandoned mineshafts -- with the help of makeshift bazookas with Boom Tube written on the side -- they try to unfuck the mess they’re in.
despite this being good old fashioned F-U-N, the story still manages to strike a balance between the action and some excellent tidbits of worldbuilding that lead to serious political conflict and interesting reveals re: the very nature of hy braesil’s world.
saskia, in particular, also gets more screen-time which i LOVED. she’s much more than just another of mikani’s ex girlfriends, and the new relationship she develops with both him and ritsuko was lovely. there’s absolutely no drama here, only respect.
this sequel still carries some of the issues that the first book did, too -- things that would’ve been swept up by making the editing just a bit tighter. there’s some repetition that’s a little irksome; no need to beat your readers over the head with the same observation over and over. or when you describe something with an adjective, it’s nice to use a different adjective for it in the sentence that follows after.
i found the first novel to be slightly more interesting than this one; it’s less of an action packed rush from here-to-there, allowing you to linger in the world and the mystery. i guess i’m more of a holmes aficionado than an indiana jones buff.
that said -- boy oh boy, mikani and ritsuko. i was treated to a whole lot more of their Partners in Crime dynamic and it’s all so genuinely sweet and loveable that it made my chest ache. let it be known that i love them and that at least 60% of my love for these books stems from their relationship. please burn me sweeter with that touch-starved, mutual respect.
“every woman should be loved like this, quietly and infinitely, a wheel without end.”the authors even throw in my treasured found family trope! whaddya know!
anyway, it’s been six years since this was published. SIX YEARS. please tell me there’s a third one floating out there with ‘golden’ in the title so we can resolve this trilogy properly. i won’t take anything less than a happy ending and a solid make-out session.
✎ 3.0 stars.
May 16, 2014
4 of 5 stars at The BiblioSanctum http://bibliosanctum.blogspot.com/201...
The adventures of Janus Mikani and Celeste Ritsuko continue in Silver Mirrors, but the second novel of the Apparatus Infernum series takes a decidedly different tack. Of course, our two CID investigators have another mystery to solve, but their mission this time takes them across the ocean, over the treacherous peaks of the mountains, and deep into the fire elemental mining tunnels of the north.
Needless to say, I found Silver Mirrors to be a much more exciting novel than the first. The premise of the story – that the world’s elementals are unsettled and running amok as a result of the destructive events of the last book – is perhaps tenuous at best, but it hardly mattered. The important thing is, we get to go on an adventure out of the city and onto the high seas with our two protagonists. And thar be pirates!
Also threaded into this thrilling ride is the ever-present romantic side plot, with the sexual tension between Ritsuko and Mikani about to boil over and explode any second. Seriously, these two have it BAD for one another. And of course, everyone sees it except for them. If you prefer slow-burn romances and delayed gratification when it comes to love stories between characters, I can’t recommend these books enough. But it also behooves me to say it probably wouldn’t hurt to be prepared for how oblivious they are. Reading about the two of them dancing and flailing around each other’s emotions is a bit like watching a couple of hopeless players at game of charades. It’s hard to believe they actually make a living doing detective work and solving mysteries. But you know what they say about good things coming to those who wait. I think that goes for the characters and the readers both, and for now all we can do is root for Ritsuko and Mikani.
But I’m glad I decided to read this sequel not just for the progression of their romance, because there’s a lot more to the world of this series. Silver Mirrors expands it by having the characters travel afar, and not for the first time I wished a book would include a map. We also learn more about the magic and its limitations. For instance, when the behaviors of elementals are disrupted, the different instruments and devices they help power can also become unstable or fail spectacularly altogether. It wasn’t until this novel that I finally got a sense of the living, breathing connection between the mortal and the mystical.
The Aguirres are clearly not afraid to take their books into new territory. While Bronze Gods was more of a whodunit murder mystery, Silver Mirrors reads like an action-adventure with the characters embarking on a perilous quest. Book two may be a continuation of book one, but even so, the two stories can’t be any more different. It mixes things up and keeps this series interesting. Obviously, the Mikani and Ritsuko situation is something I’d like to keep an eye on, but I’m also looking forward to seeing what the authors will do in future installments and where they will take us next.
The adventures of Janus Mikani and Celeste Ritsuko continue in Silver Mirrors, but the second novel of the Apparatus Infernum series takes a decidedly different tack. Of course, our two CID investigators have another mystery to solve, but their mission this time takes them across the ocean, over the treacherous peaks of the mountains, and deep into the fire elemental mining tunnels of the north.
Needless to say, I found Silver Mirrors to be a much more exciting novel than the first. The premise of the story – that the world’s elementals are unsettled and running amok as a result of the destructive events of the last book – is perhaps tenuous at best, but it hardly mattered. The important thing is, we get to go on an adventure out of the city and onto the high seas with our two protagonists. And thar be pirates!
Also threaded into this thrilling ride is the ever-present romantic side plot, with the sexual tension between Ritsuko and Mikani about to boil over and explode any second. Seriously, these two have it BAD for one another. And of course, everyone sees it except for them. If you prefer slow-burn romances and delayed gratification when it comes to love stories between characters, I can’t recommend these books enough. But it also behooves me to say it probably wouldn’t hurt to be prepared for how oblivious they are. Reading about the two of them dancing and flailing around each other’s emotions is a bit like watching a couple of hopeless players at game of charades. It’s hard to believe they actually make a living doing detective work and solving mysteries. But you know what they say about good things coming to those who wait. I think that goes for the characters and the readers both, and for now all we can do is root for Ritsuko and Mikani.
But I’m glad I decided to read this sequel not just for the progression of their romance, because there’s a lot more to the world of this series. Silver Mirrors expands it by having the characters travel afar, and not for the first time I wished a book would include a map. We also learn more about the magic and its limitations. For instance, when the behaviors of elementals are disrupted, the different instruments and devices they help power can also become unstable or fail spectacularly altogether. It wasn’t until this novel that I finally got a sense of the living, breathing connection between the mortal and the mystical.
The Aguirres are clearly not afraid to take their books into new territory. While Bronze Gods was more of a whodunit murder mystery, Silver Mirrors reads like an action-adventure with the characters embarking on a perilous quest. Book two may be a continuation of book one, but even so, the two stories can’t be any more different. It mixes things up and keeps this series interesting. Obviously, the Mikani and Ritsuko situation is something I’d like to keep an eye on, but I’m also looking forward to seeing what the authors will do in future installments and where they will take us next.
September 3, 2017
SILVER MIRRORS is the second book in the Apparatus Infernum series by the husband and wife writing duo, A.A. Aguirre. The two main characters are criminal investigation inspectors Janus Mikani and Celeste Ritsuko. Both are well matched in both skill and knowledge, making them a lethal team. I really enjoyed the first book so I was definitely looking forward to this one.
It’s been about half a year since I read the first book in the series so I was a little bit hazy on some of the events that had happened already. Aguirre doesn’t really spend time re-explaining the world and what has happened so far, so I think it’s very important to read this series in order. From the beginning, this book just jumps straight into the case, which involves machines, elementals and pirates.
I’m very picky when it comes to the Steampunk genre, but this one of the very few that I enjoy. I think it’s because it involves some UF and Paranormal elements in it as well so that I’m able to enjoy it more.
In addition to the mystery that runs throughout this book, there’s also some light romance. It’s a slow burn but you can definitely see aspects to it sprinkled throughout. I would’ve liked to have seen more of this but with only two books in the series, I can understand why it was done in this way. I’m hoping that there’s a chance that this series can have some sort of revival because I love the mix of genres that Aguirre has put together here.
July 19, 2014
4.5
I did not read the blurb before reading this. After reading the book, I can say that its blurb is perfect. Just enough of this story is there to make it interesting without spoiling anything.
What to say about a book that has a couple of things I hate more than anything? I loved it! Unexpected and weird, yes, but it seems even what I hate can be written well and in a way that doesn't make this an angst fest. I am thinking I should recommend this book to a couple of authors who ruined perfectly good series with unnecessary drama.
I know it's strange to make something I despise a starting point, but it is easier to see just how well this is written. Mikani and Ritsuko have a new assignment - investigate the origin of all the recent magical troubles (freak thunderstorms, wailing trains, crazed machines, suicides and so on). The need a boat to go north. The problem is, since the craggers are attacking everyone, nobody is brave enough to take them. Well, nobody except Mikani's ex-lover, Saskia. This was almost enough for me not to read it. After all, every other author used this trope to create so much drama that you forget the actual story. But I braved it thanks to one review who presented it well.
Saskia and Ritsuko respect each other. Imagine that. They never talk about it, but there are so many moments in the book that you can clearly see how extraordinary these women are. There is no drama or backstabbing. Saskia is competent, brave and beautiful and she is not trying to hurt anyone. A great woman. The best thing? Ritsuko thinks so too. It was so refreshing to read this book and characters' interactions.
Hu, a healer and Saskia's friend, is another wonderful character without whom this story wouldn't be the same. Hu, his lovely captain and a colourful crew make this story worth every single moment of reading. I just might read it again. That's how it is good.
Silver Mirrors is different from the first book. It is more of a questing adventure. They have a task and they find a group of great people to help them. There are surprises and nothing is as it seems. People they meet act in a way you wouldn't expect.
Now, another thing I hate - Mikani and Ritsuko solve the puzzle of magical disturbances and a lot of other problems too, but the book ends in cliffhanger. It isn't a cut in the middle of a sentence type of a cliffhanger, but it is one nevertheless. And it is outstanding! A cliffhanger that leaves you eagerly waiting for more, but not withholding the solution for the current problems.
If I had to nitpick something in this book those would be annoying ellipses and occasional first person italics from more than Mikani and Ritsuko, but they are so insignificant that they can't harm the story.
I did not read the blurb before reading this. After reading the book, I can say that its blurb is perfect. Just enough of this story is there to make it interesting without spoiling anything.
What to say about a book that has a couple of things I hate more than anything? I loved it! Unexpected and weird, yes, but it seems even what I hate can be written well and in a way that doesn't make this an angst fest. I am thinking I should recommend this book to a couple of authors who ruined perfectly good series with unnecessary drama.
I know it's strange to make something I despise a starting point, but it is easier to see just how well this is written. Mikani and Ritsuko have a new assignment - investigate the origin of all the recent magical troubles (freak thunderstorms, wailing trains, crazed machines, suicides and so on). The need a boat to go north. The problem is, since the craggers are attacking everyone, nobody is brave enough to take them. Well, nobody except Mikani's ex-lover, Saskia. This was almost enough for me not to read it. After all, every other author used this trope to create so much drama that you forget the actual story. But I braved it thanks to one review who presented it well.
Saskia and Ritsuko respect each other. Imagine that. They never talk about it, but there are so many moments in the book that you can clearly see how extraordinary these women are. There is no drama or backstabbing. Saskia is competent, brave and beautiful and she is not trying to hurt anyone. A great woman. The best thing? Ritsuko thinks so too. It was so refreshing to read this book and characters' interactions.
Hu, a healer and Saskia's friend, is another wonderful character without whom this story wouldn't be the same. Hu, his lovely captain and a colourful crew make this story worth every single moment of reading. I just might read it again. That's how it is good.
Silver Mirrors is different from the first book. It is more of a questing adventure. They have a task and they find a group of great people to help them. There are surprises and nothing is as it seems. People they meet act in a way you wouldn't expect.
Now, another thing I hate - Mikani and Ritsuko solve the puzzle of magical disturbances and a lot of other problems too, but the book ends in cliffhanger. It isn't a cut in the middle of a sentence type of a cliffhanger, but it is one nevertheless. And it is outstanding! A cliffhanger that leaves you eagerly waiting for more, but not withholding the solution for the current problems.
If I had to nitpick something in this book those would be annoying ellipses and occasional first person italics from more than Mikani and Ritsuko, but they are so insignificant that they can't harm the story.
June 6, 2014
This is an apparent case of it's not you, it's me.
I can't point point out what didn't work for me here, I can just say "the force is weak with this one". No book-magic whatsoever.
It's weird, because this book had all the elements that would normally appeal to me (an interesting world building, an adventure, an action-packed plot, a dash of magical stuff and some romance). And still, I found myself not engaged in the least.
Oh, well. Everyone and their uncle liked this, so don't put too much faith in this and read all the other reviews out there :)
I can't point point out what didn't work for me here, I can just say "the force is weak with this one". No book-magic whatsoever.
It's weird, because this book had all the elements that would normally appeal to me (an interesting world building, an adventure, an action-packed plot, a dash of magical stuff and some romance). And still, I found myself not engaged in the least.
Oh, well. Everyone and their uncle liked this, so don't put too much faith in this and read all the other reviews out there :)
Read
May 25, 2023DNF at 39%
June 30, 2015
3.5 stars. I went into Silver Mirrors with almost impossibly high expectations after Bronze Gods rocked my world, so it was pretty much inevitable that I'd find this second entry in the Apparatus Infernum series just sliiiightly less amazing than I had hoped. Only slightly, mind you - it's still an enjoyable read, with excellent character growth for the two leads, a deeper exploration of the world of Hy Breasil and enough twists and changes to keep readers on their toes.
Plot-wise, Silver Mirrors picks up soon after the events of the first book, with Ritsuko and Mikani only just recovered from the injuries and emotional strain that they'd suffered in the tussle with Lorne Nuall. This second book reads completely differently from the first - where Bronze Gods was part-detective investigation into the mystery behind the serial murders and was heavy on suspense, Silver Mirrors is almost entirely an adventure story. One is clearly expected to have read the first book and remembered exactly what happened (there's virtually no explanation or development at the beginning), because Ritsuko and Mikani are launched directly into a wild sea voyage followed by dangerous mountain treks, deep mine exploration and sea battles with pirates. The goal? To stop a string of crazy events troubling Dorstaad and the Winter Isle - wailing trains, screaming silver mirrors, steam carriages and ships going out of control and rampaging elemental spirits. If you were expecting more of what we were given in Bronze Gods, as I was, you will be extremely perplexed.
And while this style of storytelling may work for some, it didn't work so well for me. Fast-paced, action-packed excitement is good, but there were many times when I felt that the actual point of what Ritsuko and Mikani were doing (i.e. investigate the cause of the mysterious events and restore order) was lost as we careened from one near-disaster into another. At one point, after fell off a cliff, I found myself struggling to remember why the leads had even gone on this voyage in the first place. Given the choice between the more straightforward and structured development of Bronze Gods and this mad-cap adventure, I'd pick the former.
The adventuring does lend itself to expanding the richly detailed world of Hy Breasil and we see much more of it this time through the characters' travels. The steampunk and fantasy aspects are seamlessly interwoven - daily transportation and communication via steam-powered machines and mirrors are closely connected with the use of elemental magic, as Ritsuko and Mikani slowly discover. They're also governed by consistent rules, which is a nice change from some of the totally incomprehensible magic systems out there.
The character and romantic developments go hand in hand here and thankfully the Aguirre team isn't shy about forcing Ritsuko and Mikani to grow chapter by chapter; the dangerous situations they find themselves in mean that neither can simply ignore the fact that their relationship's moved way beyond that of normal work partners. Considering Mikani's the can't-spit-it-out type, this is a darn good thing, and through their changing perceptions of the other, we learn far more about them. These two are best friends, partners that would die for each other and have such a deep, mutual understanding that no one can come between them at this point - it's great slow-burn romance, but their relationship also transcends romantic love.
The supporting characters are as well-developed as the leads; Saskia Braelan, Mikani's former lover and a weather witch, and her ship's doctor and oldest friend Irahi Hu are particularly important, both to the story and to Ritsuko and Mikani's growth. I loved that the Aguirres avoided the idiotic love triangle/ex-lover angst tropes and instead had the characters surpass their romantic entanglements to become real friends. I do hope they return for book 3.
Despite my one issue with Silver Mirrors, I can't wait for book 3. With the changes to Ritsuko and Mikani's lives following the events here (really, the Aguirres basically took a baseball bat to Ritsuko and Mikani's world - they're certainly not afraid of changing things up), I'm extremely curious what our heroes will do from hereon.
Plot-wise, Silver Mirrors picks up soon after the events of the first book, with Ritsuko and Mikani only just recovered from the injuries and emotional strain that they'd suffered in the tussle with Lorne Nuall. This second book reads completely differently from the first - where Bronze Gods was part-detective investigation into the mystery behind the serial murders and was heavy on suspense, Silver Mirrors is almost entirely an adventure story. One is clearly expected to have read the first book and remembered exactly what happened (there's virtually no explanation or development at the beginning), because Ritsuko and Mikani are launched directly into a wild sea voyage followed by dangerous mountain treks, deep mine exploration and sea battles with pirates. The goal? To stop a string of crazy events troubling Dorstaad and the Winter Isle - wailing trains, screaming silver mirrors, steam carriages and ships going out of control and rampaging elemental spirits. If you were expecting more of what we were given in Bronze Gods, as I was, you will be extremely perplexed.
And while this style of storytelling may work for some, it didn't work so well for me. Fast-paced, action-packed excitement is good, but there were many times when I felt that the actual point of what Ritsuko and Mikani were doing (i.e. investigate the cause of the mysterious events and restore order) was lost as we careened from one near-disaster into another. At one point, after fell off a cliff, I found myself struggling to remember why the leads had even gone on this voyage in the first place. Given the choice between the more straightforward and structured development of Bronze Gods and this mad-cap adventure, I'd pick the former.
The adventuring does lend itself to expanding the richly detailed world of Hy Breasil and we see much more of it this time through the characters' travels. The steampunk and fantasy aspects are seamlessly interwoven - daily transportation and communication via steam-powered machines and mirrors are closely connected with the use of elemental magic, as Ritsuko and Mikani slowly discover. They're also governed by consistent rules, which is a nice change from some of the totally incomprehensible magic systems out there.
The character and romantic developments go hand in hand here and thankfully the Aguirre team isn't shy about forcing Ritsuko and Mikani to grow chapter by chapter; the dangerous situations they find themselves in mean that neither can simply ignore the fact that their relationship's moved way beyond that of normal work partners. Considering Mikani's the can't-spit-it-out type, this is a darn good thing, and through their changing perceptions of the other, we learn far more about them. These two are best friends, partners that would die for each other and have such a deep, mutual understanding that no one can come between them at this point - it's great slow-burn romance, but their relationship also transcends romantic love.
The supporting characters are as well-developed as the leads; Saskia Braelan, Mikani's former lover and a weather witch, and her ship's doctor and oldest friend Irahi Hu are particularly important, both to the story and to Ritsuko and Mikani's growth. I loved that the Aguirres avoided the idiotic love triangle/ex-lover angst tropes and instead had the characters surpass their romantic entanglements to become real friends. I do hope they return for book 3.
Despite my one issue with Silver Mirrors, I can't wait for book 3. With the changes to Ritsuko and Mikani's lives following the events here (really, the Aguirres basically took a baseball bat to Ritsuko and Mikani's world - they're certainly not afraid of changing things up), I'm extremely curious what our heroes will do from hereon.
September 2, 2017
SILVER MIRRORS is the second book in the Apparatus Infernum series by the husband and wife writing duo, A.A. Aguirre. The two main characters are criminal investigation inspectors Janus Mikani and Celeste Ritsuko. Both are well matched in both skill and knowledge, making them a lethal team. I really enjoyed the first book so I was definitely looking forward to this one.It’s been about half a year since I read the first book in the series so I was a little bit hazy on some of the events that had happened already. Aguirre doesn’t really spend time re-explaining the world and what has happened so far, so I think it’s very important to read this series in order. From the beginning, this book just jumps straight into the case, which involves machines, elementals and pirates.
I’m very picky when it comes to the Steampunk genre, but this one of the very few that I enjoy. I think it’s because it involves some UF and Paranormal elements in it as well so that I’m able to enjoy it more.
In addition to the mystery that runs throughout this book, there’s also some light romance. It’s a slow burn but you can definitely see aspects to it sprinkled throughout. I would’ve liked to have seen more of this but with only two books in the series, I can understand why it was done in this way. I’m hoping that there’s a chance that this series can have some sort of revival because I love the mix of genres that Aguirre has put together here.
*Reviewed by Ann❤ ♡ Don't want to miss any of our posts? Subscribe to our blog by email! ♡ ❤
August 11, 2016
Wow! You are in for a heck of an adventure with Ritsuko and Mikani when you read Silver Mirrors! After I proclaimed Bronze Gods as the best book of 2013, I was almost afraid to read the follow up in the Apparatus Infernum series. Could it possibly be as good? The answer is a resounding YES!
While Bronze Gods was more of a murder mystery, Silver Mirrors is a series of all-out, no holds barred, bare-fisted confrontations with the dark magical forces that inhabit Hy Breasil's Winter Island. There is no time to catch your breath between chapters. The only thing softening the action is the slow burning romance between our heroes. You will learn a little more of Mikani's past, and then cross your fingers for both Ritusko's and Mikani's future. All I can say is AWESOME!
I truly love this series. The setting and concepts are highly original and thought-provoking. I hope they prove to be fodder for a long, successful series of books!
True story - Shortly before I starting reading Silver Mirrors, I watched a TV show on Atlantis-like lost lands. They talked about the island of Hy Breasil. I had never heard of it before, but I suppose that is because the Architect did such a good job of hiding it from the rest of the world.....
I got an advance copy from the author in exchange for an unbiased review.
While Bronze Gods was more of a murder mystery, Silver Mirrors is a series of all-out, no holds barred, bare-fisted confrontations with the dark magical forces that inhabit Hy Breasil's Winter Island. There is no time to catch your breath between chapters. The only thing softening the action is the slow burning romance between our heroes. You will learn a little more of Mikani's past, and then cross your fingers for both Ritusko's and Mikani's future. All I can say is AWESOME!
I truly love this series. The setting and concepts are highly original and thought-provoking. I hope they prove to be fodder for a long, successful series of books!
True story - Shortly before I starting reading Silver Mirrors, I watched a TV show on Atlantis-like lost lands. They talked about the island of Hy Breasil. I had never heard of it before, but I suppose that is because the Architect did such a good job of hiding it from the rest of the world.....
I got an advance copy from the author in exchange for an unbiased review.
September 15, 2017
4.75 Slow-Burn Steampunk Romance Adventure Stars
Lots more action than the first book. Some great secondary characters (I'm looking at you, Irahi Hu), a sea journey complete with pirates, firey salamander elementals, and danger on distant shores made this second installment in the Apparatus Infernum series great good fun to read.
And of course, there was much more Mikani and Ritsuko to bliss out on. They are still adorable. And perfect. And I love them to bits. The only thing keeping me from awarding this a full 5 stars is the snails pace of the slow burn between these two. It was just a little too slow for my taste. The ending was so lovely and romantic and ... just this short of satisfying. :/ I couldn't help but hear the song from Little Mermaid playing in my head at one point. You know, "Kiss the Girl." Just. Do. It. Already. Ugh. It feels like there should be more story coming for our heroes, but I see no hints that the author is planning to make this a trilogy. I hope I'm mistaken, because I'll gladly head out on another adventure with these two if given the chance.
Lots more action than the first book. Some great secondary characters (I'm looking at you, Irahi Hu), a sea journey complete with pirates, firey salamander elementals, and danger on distant shores made this second installment in the Apparatus Infernum series great good fun to read.
And of course, there was much more Mikani and Ritsuko to bliss out on. They are still adorable. And perfect. And I love them to bits. The only thing keeping me from awarding this a full 5 stars is the snails pace of the slow burn between these two. It was just a little too slow for my taste. The ending was so lovely and romantic and ... just this short of satisfying. :/ I couldn't help but hear the song from Little Mermaid playing in my head at one point. You know, "Kiss the Girl." Just. Do. It. Already. Ugh. It feels like there should be more story coming for our heroes, but I see no hints that the author is planning to make this a trilogy. I hope I'm mistaken, because I'll gladly head out on another adventure with these two if given the chance.
July 7, 2016
I can’t believe it has been nearly three years since I read Bronze Gods! It feels like just yesterday I stumbled across the gem of a new fantasy novel in the library and excitedly took it home. Mind you, my memory (or lack thereof) of that first book is more consistent with such an elapsed time. I went into Silver Mirrors with only a vague sense of what happened in Bronze Gods (fortunately, Aguirre summarizes the main points succinctly without too much exposition, something many authors struggle to do). It has taken me far too long to read this book, more because I simply forgot to look for it in my library. It was nice to hang out with Inspectors Celeste Ritsuko and Janus Mikani again as they take on various nefarious happenings in Hy Breasil.
As I commented in my review of Bronze Gods, Aguirre has a great world here. They continue to build on it in this book, with Ritsuko and Mikani leaving Dorstaad to venture north and deal with the fallout from the end of the first book. We get to spend more time with Saskia Braelan, meet some other interesting characters, and learn a little more about the magic that underpins this world. There is also plenty of adventure, combat, and explosions. Indeed, Silver Mirrors feels very much like the “bigger budget” sequel to a movie that was a surprise box office hit: Ritsuko and Mikani, back for a second adventure, get a grander stage and more CGI effects. Like many such sequel movies, this creates new opportunities for storytelling but also brings with it challenges and even drawbacks.
I enjoyed the mystery element of Bronze Gods, and it isn’t as evident here. This is a bit of a strange complaint from me, because normally I’m ready to complain about how much paranormal and urban fantasy fiction is wrapped up in the mystery genre as well. The book starts off hinting that Ritsuko and Mikani might continue pursuing the ur-mystery uncovered in the first novel, and the events do eventually converge in that direction. Most of the book, however, follows a more conventional quest structure for the plot, with the inspectors facing various physical and psychological challenges to have them demonstrate their worthiness as heroic figures.
It almost feels like Silver Mirrors is a bunch of story ideas hastily stitched together: Ritsuko and Mikani pursuing their mystery; pirates raiding shipping; elementals on the loose on remote islands; a megalomaniac governor with evil designs on these elementals, etc. Just when it seems like they are making progress on one story, the novel suddenly says, “Surprise, that’s not actually the main plot after all!” And it’s all very disorienting. Yes, in general it’s good to have multiple layers to one’s plots. But in a book this short and so densely-packed with action sequences, it’s important to make the plots work smoothly together. That doesn’t happen here.
On the other hand, the character development between Ritsuko and Mikani continues apace, in interesting ways. Without delving too far into spoilers, let’s say that I like the way that Aguirre manages their relationship status. It feels very believable without being too contrived. Too many writers throw duos together into romance for no good reason; too many writers take the opposite tack of playing the “will they or won’t they” game forever because they’re worried that putting the characters together will make things “boring”. Aguirre opts for neither approach, and it works here. Along with the development of the minor characters, Ritsuko and Mikani’s ongoing respect for one another’s feelings and skills as they navigate their own emotions is a very compelling aspect of Silver Mirrors.
You know, I knock the story, but this is actually really good fantasy. Its magic is intriguing without dominating everything. It has great characters, both main and secondary. And it has a nice setting. I called the first book “steampunk” and I’m no longer sure that applies, but it feels steampunk-adjacent, if that makes any sense. It has a similar kind of proto-industrial atmosphere to it. I can totally see the appeal. I think where this series and the writers’ styles and I part ways are simply in the way all of these elements are brought together into a whole. It feels very patchwork, too much of everything and not enough of anything for my tastes: “Look, we’re on a boat! Look now we’re trapped in a mine! Look, a dragon!” And I can get great boat fantasy and great mine fantasy and great dragon fantasy in separate stories that explore these settings or ideas much more rigorously. When I read fantasy, a smorgasbord is not what I’m after.
If you have read Bronze Gods, give Silver Mirrors a try. There should be a sequel—I like how Aguirre has kept the overall story arc moving briskly—though we’re two years on without a sign of one. I would probably read a third book if it emerges, but this is definitely a fantasy series I “like” rather than “love”.
My reviews of Apparatus Infernum:
← Bronze Gods
As I commented in my review of Bronze Gods, Aguirre has a great world here. They continue to build on it in this book, with Ritsuko and Mikani leaving Dorstaad to venture north and deal with the fallout from the end of the first book. We get to spend more time with Saskia Braelan, meet some other interesting characters, and learn a little more about the magic that underpins this world. There is also plenty of adventure, combat, and explosions. Indeed, Silver Mirrors feels very much like the “bigger budget” sequel to a movie that was a surprise box office hit: Ritsuko and Mikani, back for a second adventure, get a grander stage and more CGI effects. Like many such sequel movies, this creates new opportunities for storytelling but also brings with it challenges and even drawbacks.
I enjoyed the mystery element of Bronze Gods, and it isn’t as evident here. This is a bit of a strange complaint from me, because normally I’m ready to complain about how much paranormal and urban fantasy fiction is wrapped up in the mystery genre as well. The book starts off hinting that Ritsuko and Mikani might continue pursuing the ur-mystery uncovered in the first novel, and the events do eventually converge in that direction. Most of the book, however, follows a more conventional quest structure for the plot, with the inspectors facing various physical and psychological challenges to have them demonstrate their worthiness as heroic figures.
It almost feels like Silver Mirrors is a bunch of story ideas hastily stitched together: Ritsuko and Mikani pursuing their mystery; pirates raiding shipping; elementals on the loose on remote islands; a megalomaniac governor with evil designs on these elementals, etc. Just when it seems like they are making progress on one story, the novel suddenly says, “Surprise, that’s not actually the main plot after all!” And it’s all very disorienting. Yes, in general it’s good to have multiple layers to one’s plots. But in a book this short and so densely-packed with action sequences, it’s important to make the plots work smoothly together. That doesn’t happen here.
On the other hand, the character development between Ritsuko and Mikani continues apace, in interesting ways. Without delving too far into spoilers, let’s say that I like the way that Aguirre manages their relationship status. It feels very believable without being too contrived. Too many writers throw duos together into romance for no good reason; too many writers take the opposite tack of playing the “will they or won’t they” game forever because they’re worried that putting the characters together will make things “boring”. Aguirre opts for neither approach, and it works here. Along with the development of the minor characters, Ritsuko and Mikani’s ongoing respect for one another’s feelings and skills as they navigate their own emotions is a very compelling aspect of Silver Mirrors.
You know, I knock the story, but this is actually really good fantasy. Its magic is intriguing without dominating everything. It has great characters, both main and secondary. And it has a nice setting. I called the first book “steampunk” and I’m no longer sure that applies, but it feels steampunk-adjacent, if that makes any sense. It has a similar kind of proto-industrial atmosphere to it. I can totally see the appeal. I think where this series and the writers’ styles and I part ways are simply in the way all of these elements are brought together into a whole. It feels very patchwork, too much of everything and not enough of anything for my tastes: “Look, we’re on a boat! Look now we’re trapped in a mine! Look, a dragon!” And I can get great boat fantasy and great mine fantasy and great dragon fantasy in separate stories that explore these settings or ideas much more rigorously. When I read fantasy, a smorgasbord is not what I’m after.
If you have read Bronze Gods, give Silver Mirrors a try. There should be a sequel—I like how Aguirre has kept the overall story arc moving briskly—though we’re two years on without a sign of one. I would probably read a third book if it emerges, but this is definitely a fantasy series I “like” rather than “love”.
My reviews of Apparatus Infernum:
← Bronze Gods
April 10, 2014
I loved the first book in this series, so you can imagine my excitement when I got an Advance Reader Copy of Silver Mirrors.
And this yet another great read.
I will confess I had my doubts at first, when Ritsuko and Mikani left the city. I very much enjoyed that setting in the first book, and wasn't so sure if I'd like a sea adventure, which seemed what this story was going for.
I shouldn't have worried though. Andres and Ann know how to tell a compelling story, no matter where that story is set. Soon I forgot all about the city, and was gripped by the unfolding events.
New characters were introduced, some who I liked from the start, others I had to warm up to, but all were intriguing and added to the story. There was action, adventure, disaster and intense situations. The relationship between Ritsuko and Mikani is still a complex and difficult one, and there were some other people with emotional investments towards the two as well, creating tension.
All in all this is a cool and action packed story with an ending that makes me hungry for more. I will be keeping my eyes open for the next book in this series for sure.
And this yet another great read.
I will confess I had my doubts at first, when Ritsuko and Mikani left the city. I very much enjoyed that setting in the first book, and wasn't so sure if I'd like a sea adventure, which seemed what this story was going for.
I shouldn't have worried though. Andres and Ann know how to tell a compelling story, no matter where that story is set. Soon I forgot all about the city, and was gripped by the unfolding events.
New characters were introduced, some who I liked from the start, others I had to warm up to, but all were intriguing and added to the story. There was action, adventure, disaster and intense situations. The relationship between Ritsuko and Mikani is still a complex and difficult one, and there were some other people with emotional investments towards the two as well, creating tension.
All in all this is a cool and action packed story with an ending that makes me hungry for more. I will be keeping my eyes open for the next book in this series for sure.
May 16, 2014
Silver Mirrors was quite different from the first book, more of an adventure story with a hunt for the explanation of why things in the society that rely on elementals are going haywire than the more straightforward investigation of the first book.
I liked Silver Mirrors, but I had problems coming back up to speed on the series (since the situation for the leads was so different there weren't many little niggles of what had come before to nudge my memory) and for some reason, I had a really hard time remembering which name went with which lead when they were referred to by their surname - so initially I had to pause and think which was which whenever I saw Risuko or Mikani. I did finally get back in the grove and I warmed up to the adventure and I liked the interactions with the secondary characters and I am looking forward to more from the series - and hoping for some fulfillment of the promise of romance. (it's just how I roll:)
I liked Silver Mirrors, but I had problems coming back up to speed on the series (since the situation for the leads was so different there weren't many little niggles of what had come before to nudge my memory) and for some reason, I had a really hard time remembering which name went with which lead when they were referred to by their surname - so initially I had to pause and think which was which whenever I saw Risuko or Mikani. I did finally get back in the grove and I warmed up to the adventure and I liked the interactions with the secondary characters and I am looking forward to more from the series - and hoping for some fulfillment of the promise of romance. (it's just how I roll:)
August 5, 2018
Well-paced, with believable and unique characters and a great plot. What more can you ask from magical steampunk with elementals gone wild, weather witches and pirates?
June 28, 2020
I absolutely loved reading this book and am terrified that a third book in the series will never happen. This book came out in 2014... I'm so upset that I may have to reach out to Ann and Andres begging them for a third installment. Is it happening? Does anyone know? I'm too scared to research. I'm about to resort to FanFiction (good stuff, no judgment, but NOT THE AUTHORS) to get my fix... bronze gods help me!
June 18, 2015
Mikani and Ritsuko have just come off a case where they foiled a villain who was trying to destroy their city. Despite the accolades they receive, they are certain that he wasn't acting alone and are pursuing their investigation without official sanction.
Things are going a little crazy in the city too with the elementals that power the trains and the long distance mirror going crazy. They believe that it is an after effect of the spell the villain was trying to perform. Their superiors want them to find out the cause and stop the problem. Thus, they are sent out of the city in search of a solution.
Mikani calls on an older lover Saskia for help. She, in turn, wants him to return a favor owed and help her kill the leader of the craggers who are hampering shipping between the cities. Little do they know that the two problems are connected.
Between fighting off attacks of the craggers and dealing with angry elementals, Mikani and Ritsuko have their hands full. It doesn't help that Ritsuko has developed an ability to discern truth from lies when she hears people speak. This new power along with Mikani's ability to feel what people around him feel further complicates their new relationship.
The world building in this series is amazing. The magic is well integrated in the story as is the history of the world. I also really like the interactions between the characters. Mikani and Ritsuko's changing feelings for each other and their hesitancy to do anything about them provided an interesting dynamic played out around the larger issues.
I really hope that this wasn't the last adventure for Mikani and Ritsuko since the ending left them currently safe but with large problems still to be solved.
Things are going a little crazy in the city too with the elementals that power the trains and the long distance mirror going crazy. They believe that it is an after effect of the spell the villain was trying to perform. Their superiors want them to find out the cause and stop the problem. Thus, they are sent out of the city in search of a solution.
Mikani calls on an older lover Saskia for help. She, in turn, wants him to return a favor owed and help her kill the leader of the craggers who are hampering shipping between the cities. Little do they know that the two problems are connected.
Between fighting off attacks of the craggers and dealing with angry elementals, Mikani and Ritsuko have their hands full. It doesn't help that Ritsuko has developed an ability to discern truth from lies when she hears people speak. This new power along with Mikani's ability to feel what people around him feel further complicates their new relationship.
The world building in this series is amazing. The magic is well integrated in the story as is the history of the world. I also really like the interactions between the characters. Mikani and Ritsuko's changing feelings for each other and their hesitancy to do anything about them provided an interesting dynamic played out around the larger issues.
I really hope that this wasn't the last adventure for Mikani and Ritsuko since the ending left them currently safe but with large problems still to be solved.
November 16, 2014
It's been a while since I read book 1 in this series. I remember loving the crazy, complicated twists Mikani and Ritsuko found as they followed the trail of clues to figure out what was going on. This book is no less complicated as our two inspectors have to unravel the hows and whys of what's been happening since they solved (or however you want to look at it) their last case.
On top of that, Ritsuko has gained an interesting ability tied in with the final disastrous ritual she and Mikani disrupted, the two of them have to team up with one of Mikani's lady friends to continue following the investigation, and there is plenty of danger on the high seas and in the port towns they have to get to. Needless to say, there's a lot going on here.
BUT... there's also a lot of emotion in this book. After their brush with death in book 1, both Mikani and Ritsuko are looking at one another in a new light. Or maybe it's not new. Maybe they're just willing to acknowledge that there might be more between them than a simple partnership. Mikani practically falls apart when Ritsuko is put in danger. Ritsuko goes back and forth between enjoying her time with him and telling herself nothing can come from it. It's oddly sweet how hard their fighting to convince themselves that the other is just a friend.
In the end, big things happen. The world expands by leaps and bounds as the story progresses and revelations are discovered that throw everything they've believed about the past into question. This is a complex, emotional story and I kinda like it a lot.
-Kelly @ Reading the Paranormal
On top of that, Ritsuko has gained an interesting ability tied in with the final disastrous ritual she and Mikani disrupted, the two of them have to team up with one of Mikani's lady friends to continue following the investigation, and there is plenty of danger on the high seas and in the port towns they have to get to. Needless to say, there's a lot going on here.
BUT... there's also a lot of emotion in this book. After their brush with death in book 1, both Mikani and Ritsuko are looking at one another in a new light. Or maybe it's not new. Maybe they're just willing to acknowledge that there might be more between them than a simple partnership. Mikani practically falls apart when Ritsuko is put in danger. Ritsuko goes back and forth between enjoying her time with him and telling herself nothing can come from it. It's oddly sweet how hard their fighting to convince themselves that the other is just a friend.
In the end, big things happen. The world expands by leaps and bounds as the story progresses and revelations are discovered that throw everything they've believed about the past into question. This is a complex, emotional story and I kinda like it a lot.
-Kelly @ Reading the Paranormal
July 5, 2014
The second book in this series was good, but a little disappointing when compared to the first. The writing just didn't seem to flow as well. I'm encouraged by what's set up to come, especially as the relationship between Mikani and Ritsuko develops. It just seemed that a little more time polishing this story would have been well-spent. I'll read the next one and keep my fingers crossed!
May 5, 2014
They did it again!!! This book was even better than the first. I loved every second, ever page and I think every word of it
this is definitely one of the best books of this year
if you haven't started this series already, please do!
detailed review comes asap!
this is definitely one of the best books of this year
if you haven't started this series already, please do!
detailed review comes asap!
February 20, 2023
While Bronze Gods was a murder investigation story, Silver Mirrors is an adventure novel. It's been a month since the events of Bronze Gods. Mikani and Ritsuko survived but not unscathed.
She now has a Ferisher ability, and is getting some of the respect she deserves from her male colleagues, though not nearly enough. Mikani and Ritsuko have gained the favour of the most powerful House, which means when trains start wailing, mirrors start rippling like water, and people are panicking, guess who the Council calls upon to get to the root of the problems?
And so begins Mikani and Ritsuko's Pirates of the Carribbean-style journey to the North Isles on a ship captained by Saskia, Free Merchant and Mikani's ex. Along the way, they battle pirates, discover their secret base, and land on a Northern port only to find themselves in the middle of a political powder keg between three Houses.
Things are worse here than in the capital, with carriages ramming into people and buildings on their own and freak storms. The fire and earth elementals are running amok and Mikani, Ritsuko, Saskia, and the crew of the Gull try to find out what's causing it. A Fellowship of the Ring-type journey ensue, lots of things go kaboom, they get trapped in an underground mine that's not called Moria, negotiations with pirates happen, and they eventually run into Smaug 😋, except he's a salamander, has 6 legs, and doesn't hoard gold.
Followed by talk about enslaving sentient spirits, binding blood rituals, and I'm all ready for everyone to get lots of hot baths and clean clothes and a good week's worth of sleep, but wait! The consequences of the ritual pissed off one of the Houses, so now they're out for Mikani and Ritsuko's blood. Ship battles, more negotiations, and finally they find the culprit behind it all, including the events of book 1.
Unfortunately, the decisions they made along the way have made Ritsuko and Mikani persona non grata among 2 Houses at least. Aided by Saskia and the Gull, they decide to disappear for a bit until the furore dies down and introduce Ritsuko to Mikani's family, and STILL these two dummies haven't kissed! The romance reader in me 🥲....
Oh by the way, I thought this was a duology. Turns out this may not be the case. The way the book ends, I think it was conceived as a trilogy, but for some reason book 3 was never published.
If you've read my review so far and think I didn't like this book, that isn't the case. Just like with the first, I thought the long journeys and trials they face are too long, but this is a me problem. I like the idea of adventure novels but seldom have the patience to sit through one.
Conversations from the first book around refugees and inequality continue but in a slightly different way. If the first was about refugees of an economic blockade, the second is about climate refugees, as they are running from elementals that have turned against them.
Mikani and Ritsuko also stopped the slavery of elementals by humans and a genocide. You'd think they'd get awards and compensations, but instead they have to go on the run because there are dire consequences for upsetting rich and powerful people.
She now has a Ferisher ability, and is getting some of the respect she deserves from her male colleagues, though not nearly enough. Mikani and Ritsuko have gained the favour of the most powerful House, which means when trains start wailing, mirrors start rippling like water, and people are panicking, guess who the Council calls upon to get to the root of the problems?
And so begins Mikani and Ritsuko's Pirates of the Carribbean-style journey to the North Isles on a ship captained by Saskia, Free Merchant and Mikani's ex. Along the way, they battle pirates, discover their secret base, and land on a Northern port only to find themselves in the middle of a political powder keg between three Houses.
Things are worse here than in the capital, with carriages ramming into people and buildings on their own and freak storms. The fire and earth elementals are running amok and Mikani, Ritsuko, Saskia, and the crew of the Gull try to find out what's causing it. A Fellowship of the Ring-type journey ensue, lots of things go kaboom, they get trapped in an underground mine that's not called Moria, negotiations with pirates happen, and they eventually run into Smaug 😋, except he's a salamander, has 6 legs, and doesn't hoard gold.
Followed by talk about enslaving sentient spirits, binding blood rituals, and I'm all ready for everyone to get lots of hot baths and clean clothes and a good week's worth of sleep, but wait! The consequences of the ritual pissed off one of the Houses, so now they're out for Mikani and Ritsuko's blood. Ship battles, more negotiations, and finally they find the culprit behind it all, including the events of book 1.
Unfortunately, the decisions they made along the way have made Ritsuko and Mikani persona non grata among 2 Houses at least. Aided by Saskia and the Gull, they decide to disappear for a bit until the furore dies down and introduce Ritsuko to Mikani's family, and STILL these two dummies haven't kissed! The romance reader in me 🥲....
Oh by the way, I thought this was a duology. Turns out this may not be the case. The way the book ends, I think it was conceived as a trilogy, but for some reason book 3 was never published.
If you've read my review so far and think I didn't like this book, that isn't the case. Just like with the first, I thought the long journeys and trials they face are too long, but this is a me problem. I like the idea of adventure novels but seldom have the patience to sit through one.
Conversations from the first book around refugees and inequality continue but in a slightly different way. If the first was about refugees of an economic blockade, the second is about climate refugees, as they are running from elementals that have turned against them.
Mikani and Ritsuko also stopped the slavery of elementals by humans and a genocide. You'd think they'd get awards and compensations, but instead they have to go on the run because there are dire consequences for upsetting rich and powerful people.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 6, 2018
This book was a struggle to get through. It had all the flaws of the first book, without the things that hid those flaws. In the first book, there were moments when things just seemed to happen in order for Ritsuko and Mikani to react to and further the plot somehow. It was passable because the whole plot was them chasing a killer, meaning they had to be reactive in a sense. The other draw of the first book was Mikani and Ritsuko's partnership, where they worked fluidly with each other even during the times they were in conflict with each other. This book pulls them out of their home ground and tosses them into a half-pirate chase, half adventure-in-another-country kind of story, removing any excuse for their reactive state. Any of the subtle connection events had in the first book, wrapping up to a satisfying conclusion, is gone. The whole book feels like an incident happens, they react, then before the readers (and the characters, give them a break, bodies can only go so far) can process things, something else happens and the cycle starts all over again. Also, they spend the book talking about repercussions of events and their actions, but nothing actually happens. It got to the point where I was sick of them saying the word "repercussions." The ending was all about them escaping said repercussions, running away before it could even hit them. It was frustrating. Any coordination you enjoyed between Ritsuko and Mikani in the first book is gone here, as they spend half the book in a fight that honestly feels fabricated, as the reason was flimsy and holding a grudge over it seemed irrational. The twist of the culprit here falls flat because it was obvious from the start the villain was suspcious, and their actions right before the supposed climax were still just as suspicious. Their actions upon being caught were flabbergasting. "Here is my ancient legacy and my evil plans! Now I'm injured, get me medical assistance immediately!" Ritsuko and Mikani sharing a "do they even know how much trouble they're in" look only frustrated me further, because characters pointing out characters' stupidity only makes the writing feel more stupid. If the writer was aware of the absurdity of what they were writing, why didn't they fix it? As much as the book expands on the lore hinted on the previous one, it wasn't enough to justify a trip abroad and taking us away from excellent characters like Nuall and Aurelia, who I would have liked to know better instead of being introduced to new characters, most of which we don't even stay with longer than two chapters in a row. I wish I could have enjoyed this book.
October 19, 2020
And yet a magnificent series comes to an end. Happy sigh.
Silver Mirrors is a worthy sequel. We get many questions answered in this installment as well as a TON of action. While Bronze Gods took place in the city of Dorstaad, Silver Mirrors takes us out to the seas. There are politics, swashbuckling adventure (literally because pirates!), and amazing character development.
Seriously, if there is one thing that is amazing in both books, it's the characters, both major and minor. I loved witnessing the tenderness grow between Mikani and Ritsuko; sure, was it snarkier in previous book? Yes, however, in this one, you get to see more of the deep love that each one has for the other, and the FEELS. I just wish they made out. That's all.
In terms of the other characters, I was so excited to read more of Saskia's POV because she comes in a bit in the first book but not enough! Hu is also a sweetheart, and I especially loved the interactions with the House scions. There is a bit of a love triangle among our characters, and I usually hate love triangles because they're messy as hell and usually don't end up the way I want them to. I'm extremely pleased to say that A.A. Aguirre handles this love triangle deftly and everybody comes out happy in the end. Hallelujah!
I didn't give Silver Mirrors five stars because I think the series as a whole could have done better with details. The world is rich, but perhaps it's a little too rich, and we learn some new things that could have been mentioned in the previous book for a more holistic understanding. Moreover, I thought the beginning quarter of the book is a tad sluggish, but I'm not complaining too much on this end because it provided necessary exposition for the (crazy) events that happen. Lastly, there are certain parts in the book where the writing felt a bit jilted. Not bad, but just stiff.
The ending overall is perfect. PERFECT. Not perfect in the sense that everything wraps up in a neat little bow, but perfect in the sense that it's realistic. I mean, yes, again, I would have liked Mikani and Ritsuko to make out, BUT it would have been unrealistic and cheesy if they had in that moment. However, there is ample hope that they will get together, and in my mind, they already are.
Silver Mirrors is a worthy sequel. We get many questions answered in this installment as well as a TON of action. While Bronze Gods took place in the city of Dorstaad, Silver Mirrors takes us out to the seas. There are politics, swashbuckling adventure (literally because pirates!), and amazing character development.
Seriously, if there is one thing that is amazing in both books, it's the characters, both major and minor. I loved witnessing the tenderness grow between Mikani and Ritsuko; sure, was it snarkier in previous book? Yes, however, in this one, you get to see more of the deep love that each one has for the other, and the FEELS. I just wish they made out. That's all.
In terms of the other characters, I was so excited to read more of Saskia's POV because she comes in a bit in the first book but not enough! Hu is also a sweetheart, and I especially loved the interactions with the House scions. There is a bit of a love triangle among our characters, and I usually hate love triangles because they're messy as hell and usually don't end up the way I want them to. I'm extremely pleased to say that A.A. Aguirre handles this love triangle deftly and everybody comes out happy in the end. Hallelujah!
I didn't give Silver Mirrors five stars because I think the series as a whole could have done better with details. The world is rich, but perhaps it's a little too rich, and we learn some new things that could have been mentioned in the previous book for a more holistic understanding. Moreover, I thought the beginning quarter of the book is a tad sluggish, but I'm not complaining too much on this end because it provided necessary exposition for the (crazy) events that happen. Lastly, there are certain parts in the book where the writing felt a bit jilted. Not bad, but just stiff.
The ending overall is perfect. PERFECT. Not perfect in the sense that everything wraps up in a neat little bow, but perfect in the sense that it's realistic. I mean, yes, again, I would have liked Mikani and Ritsuko to make out, BUT it would have been unrealistic and cheesy if they had in that moment. However, there is ample hope that they will get together, and in my mind, they already are.
May 29, 2018
The writing duo of A.A. Aguirre is amazing. Rich world building that combines fantasy and steampunk in a brilliant way. Flawed but likable characters who compel the reader to keep reading. I had put off reading Bronze Gods and Silver Mirrors for quite a long time after a few disappointing Steampunk reads. Now I wish I hadn't.
As much as I enjoyed this book as much as the first one, I feel that the editor stopped caring at around the 75% mark. Misspellings started to appear and just trying to figure out who/which "he" or "she" was thinking became more confused in the last quarter of this book. "Her" could've referred to one of the two women half the time, but sometimes its was extremely unclear which it was until you got to the end of a paragraph. Sometimes it was never clear. Same went for "He" during any narrative process. It wasn't a book killer for me, but it slowed me down several times trying to figure out who's version of events was being narrated.
Otherwise I found this to be a fun read and do hope that the authors put out a third book that ties up several of the loose ends that were left dangling at the end. (Not to mention get a better editor.) However, I can just as happily let it go and move on if nothing is ever explained and I have to imagine the rest for myself.
As much as I enjoyed this book as much as the first one, I feel that the editor stopped caring at around the 75% mark. Misspellings started to appear and just trying to figure out who/which "he" or "she" was thinking became more confused in the last quarter of this book. "Her" could've referred to one of the two women half the time, but sometimes its was extremely unclear which it was until you got to the end of a paragraph. Sometimes it was never clear. Same went for "He" during any narrative process. It wasn't a book killer for me, but it slowed me down several times trying to figure out who's version of events was being narrated.
Otherwise I found this to be a fun read and do hope that the authors put out a third book that ties up several of the loose ends that were left dangling at the end. (Not to mention get a better editor.) However, I can just as happily let it go and move on if nothing is ever explained and I have to imagine the rest for myself.
June 24, 2017
I loved the character development and the secondary characters in this book. The worldbuilding was interesting, but could have been set up more from the beginning. Also, including a map or something to indicate the different House territories would have been extremely helpful. I also felt like Ritsuko and Mikani were rushing from one disaster to the next with no thread of connection, and I wished that they actually used their detective skills like they did in the first book. In terms of relationship development and ~feelings~, this book did a lot to expand on the existing threads of connection, which was fun and held this book together when the plot was too disjointed.
Hopefully in the third book the pacing of action is better and the detective work that made the first book so engaging returns.
Hopefully in the third book the pacing of action is better and the detective work that made the first book so engaging returns.
May 4, 2018
I didn't enjoy Silver Mirrors as much as Bronze Gods. The characters are still the same, but the plot is different. Our two inspectors are on a mission to discover what is going on when the city starts going crazy. There is a tie in to the last book, but it's very shaky. I liked how the first one was a murder mystery set in a lightly steampunk world. This one was more like a pirate adventure than a murder mystery. It was still exciting and entertaining, it just wasn't like the first one and I liked that style quite a bit. There is also a lot more tension between our main characters as they try to decide if they should fall in love. I think the plan was to have another book, but for some reason, the series ends after this book and nothing is wrapped up. Overall 3 out of 5 stars. I wish that they had finished the series off in a third book since this one just ends with no wrap up.
February 10, 2024
Interestingly I found this book very disappointing. Book 1 was far more interesting and entertaining than this one. It truly did lose all its charm. What bothered me even more is that I thought this was a final, as in we would get a conclusion but it is not. Instead we are left hanging, which would be fine if there was even a sequel. But there is none. And it has been 10 years since this one was released, making it save to say that no sequel will ever come.....Quite disappointing.
Still there are some aspects I truly enjoyed, like the world building and the characters. Just a ton of potential was lost or misused. I wish the authors would have kept to the Holmes-style from book 1......
3/5
Still there are some aspects I truly enjoyed, like the world building and the characters. Just a ton of potential was lost or misused. I wish the authors would have kept to the Holmes-style from book 1......
3/5
October 1, 2019
WHY NO SEQUEL?????????
Srsly.
I devoured this book. The first one read well, but this was something else. I am very disappointed that so many plot lines that were clearly intended to be in another book are still unaswered.
And the world-building. So much world-building for nothing? And do not let me talk about the romance. Truly. I mean at this point at least they admitted it to themselves (god knows that it was hilarious watching them stumble through the realisation. Seriously. Like I was walking home, reading the book, laughing out at these idiots sort of hilarious), but I need to know the "moment" this was building up to. Kill me now, I may be a hopeless romantic afterall.
Srsly.
I devoured this book. The first one read well, but this was something else. I am very disappointed that so many plot lines that were clearly intended to be in another book are still unaswered.
And the world-building. So much world-building for nothing? And do not let me talk about the romance. Truly. I mean at this point at least they admitted it to themselves (god knows that it was hilarious watching them stumble through the realisation. Seriously. Like I was walking home, reading the book, laughing out at these idiots sort of hilarious), but I need to know the "moment" this was building up to. Kill me now, I may be a hopeless romantic afterall.
January 21, 2020
Much better than the first book - which is why it's a pity it doesn't look like there'll be a third. This one leans into the Ferisher/fae side of things more, and most of it involves pirates. An instant bonus! Heh. In all seriousness though, the plot is more robust here. It's weaved into the worldbuilding a lot better. And it contains the cool stuff behind the story in the first book. Would recommend that anyone giving the series a shot, should read both together in quick succession before passing judgement.
August 28, 2017
In typical Aguirre fashion, this tale drops the reader right back in the thick of the action with Ritsuko and Mikani heading off to strange lands to deal with new characters and new problems. The stakes are high, as is the excitement.
Note: This installment comes right at the heels of the first book, so I recommend reading them at the same time, if possible, as there is not much setting/situation review.
Note: This installment comes right at the heels of the first book, so I recommend reading them at the same time, if possible, as there is not much setting/situation review.
January 14, 2020
A new adventure for the CID pair as the consequences echo into this story. The plot and antagonist(s) this time around held more weight and tension throughout the story. I wanted to see more of what they could do, but the story itself still works out. The main praise I have are with the relationships between Mikani, Ritsuko, Saskia, and Hu. The friendship and possibly more kept my interesting going in this story. Hopefully this isn't the last of what to see of these characters.
3.5/5 stars.
3.5/5 stars.
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