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Heartsmith
Aaren wants a fresh start. What he gets is a new heart.
Sixteen-year-old orphan Aaren Lockett leaves his rural hometown and ventures to the metropolis of Rexanberg to start his life afresh as a Tinker. But upon his arrival, he finds trouble when he interferes in a Hoch territory feud, and his life is thrown into immediate peril. When the dust settles, Aaren is no longer who he was before nor is he alone. Given a second chance at life, Aaren embarks on a new mission-tinkering with hearts. Little does he know that his quest to salvage and repair fractured souls will lead him to investigate a dark, chilling conspiracy. Residing within Rexanberg's glittering skyscrapers, someone is performing his own stitching life into the lifeless. To get to the bottom of this dark mystery, Aaren teams up with intrepid journalist Sasha Loren, who loves all things macabre. Together, they chase down clues as they delve into Rexanberg's seedy underbelly.
Can Aaren and Sasha unravel the mystery surrounding this grisly case? Or will they end up a mad scientist's lab rat-or worse-one of the reanimated dead? HEARTSMITH is an exciting romp through an industrial fantasy landscape filled with staple steampunk innovations and a dash of gothic horror. It will keep readers enthralled and guessing throughout its hair-raising twists and turns.
Sixteen-year-old orphan Aaren Lockett leaves his rural hometown and ventures to the metropolis of Rexanberg to start his life afresh as a Tinker. But upon his arrival, he finds trouble when he interferes in a Hoch territory feud, and his life is thrown into immediate peril. When the dust settles, Aaren is no longer who he was before nor is he alone. Given a second chance at life, Aaren embarks on a new mission-tinkering with hearts. Little does he know that his quest to salvage and repair fractured souls will lead him to investigate a dark, chilling conspiracy. Residing within Rexanberg's glittering skyscrapers, someone is performing his own stitching life into the lifeless. To get to the bottom of this dark mystery, Aaren teams up with intrepid journalist Sasha Loren, who loves all things macabre. Together, they chase down clues as they delve into Rexanberg's seedy underbelly.
Can Aaren and Sasha unravel the mystery surrounding this grisly case? Or will they end up a mad scientist's lab rat-or worse-one of the reanimated dead? HEARTSMITH is an exciting romp through an industrial fantasy landscape filled with staple steampunk innovations and a dash of gothic horror. It will keep readers enthralled and guessing throughout its hair-raising twists and turns.
- GenresSteampunkYoung Adult
355 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 1, 2024
5 people are currently reading
35 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 24 of 24 reviews
October 1, 2024
Best characters I have read in a long time. The world is alive, vibrant and morbid in all the best ways. This twist of steampunk, meets gothic horror has me happily on the edge of my seat gasping at the turns and cheering for the characters. Great mix of quippy dialogue and daunting villain. Loved this book. Great writing and epic story.
January 17, 2025
Stephanie Cotta’s “Heartsmith,” book 1 in The Heartsmith Series, is a poignant and beautifully crafted tale that invites readers into a world of deep emotional resonance and steampunk magic. At its core, the novel is an adventure, but it is also filled with tenderness and a plucky desire to make things right.
The story’s exploration of the courage required to repair what feels irreparably broken sits at the heart of a fantastical world filled with enchanting detail and lovable characters. With its lyrical prose and evocative storytelling, “Heartsmith” lingers long after the final page.
The titular “heartsmith” is a brilliant metaphor for the theme of restoration threaded throughout the story. The magical system revolves around the art of repairing broken things (“tinkering”), which serves as a compelling narrative device as hearts, bodies, and more must be mended both figuratively and literally. Cotta weaves magic into the daily struggles of her characters to make the story feel both relatable and otherworldly.
Rendered with just as much care and nuance as the setting are Cotta’s characters. Main character Aaren is a deeply sympathetic figure determined to make it in busy and bustling Rexanberg. His background as a teenage orphan adds a heart-wrenching yet uplifting component to his journey, uncovering a dark plot within the seedy underbelly of the city alongside dauntless Sasha, a journalist with a passion for all things spooky. The pair strike a delicate balance of courage and cunning that few authors manage so adeptly, and the supporting cast is equally well-drawn, each bringing their own complexities and layers to Aaren’s story. Relationships, especially that between Aaren and fairy-like Contract/healing genie Aida, are depicted with heart and wit, adding depth and texture to the narrative.
Cotta’s prose carefully and deftly articulates the smaller, more contained moments of Aaren’s venture into Rexanberg’s many secrets alongside his and Sasha’s bolder choices, making for a quick-paced but enchantingly detailed read. Cotta allows for moments of introspection without losing narrative momentum, which picks up early and is maintained throughout the book. Tension builds steadily and resolution feels earned, although the reader is left begging for more (sure to come in the rest of the series).
“Heartsmith” will appeal to readers who appreciate a character-driven fantasy with strong emotional moments. Fans of authors like Erin Morgenstern and Laini Taylor will likely find much to love here. The novel is a perfect choice for readers looking for a deeply moving tale that also offers moments of whimsy and wonder within a steampunk-style world. If you ever found yourself wondering why there weren’t more stories that felt like “Treasure Planet,” this is your next read.
In “Heartsmith,” Stephanie Cotta has crafted a must-read for fantasy and science fiction lovers alike, blending beloved elements of both genres for a tinkering, twisting tale that is not just about fixing broken things—figuratively and literally—but the courage it takes to stand up to corruption and greed, living life fully along the way.
The story’s exploration of the courage required to repair what feels irreparably broken sits at the heart of a fantastical world filled with enchanting detail and lovable characters. With its lyrical prose and evocative storytelling, “Heartsmith” lingers long after the final page.
The titular “heartsmith” is a brilliant metaphor for the theme of restoration threaded throughout the story. The magical system revolves around the art of repairing broken things (“tinkering”), which serves as a compelling narrative device as hearts, bodies, and more must be mended both figuratively and literally. Cotta weaves magic into the daily struggles of her characters to make the story feel both relatable and otherworldly.
Rendered with just as much care and nuance as the setting are Cotta’s characters. Main character Aaren is a deeply sympathetic figure determined to make it in busy and bustling Rexanberg. His background as a teenage orphan adds a heart-wrenching yet uplifting component to his journey, uncovering a dark plot within the seedy underbelly of the city alongside dauntless Sasha, a journalist with a passion for all things spooky. The pair strike a delicate balance of courage and cunning that few authors manage so adeptly, and the supporting cast is equally well-drawn, each bringing their own complexities and layers to Aaren’s story. Relationships, especially that between Aaren and fairy-like Contract/healing genie Aida, are depicted with heart and wit, adding depth and texture to the narrative.
Cotta’s prose carefully and deftly articulates the smaller, more contained moments of Aaren’s venture into Rexanberg’s many secrets alongside his and Sasha’s bolder choices, making for a quick-paced but enchantingly detailed read. Cotta allows for moments of introspection without losing narrative momentum, which picks up early and is maintained throughout the book. Tension builds steadily and resolution feels earned, although the reader is left begging for more (sure to come in the rest of the series).
“Heartsmith” will appeal to readers who appreciate a character-driven fantasy with strong emotional moments. Fans of authors like Erin Morgenstern and Laini Taylor will likely find much to love here. The novel is a perfect choice for readers looking for a deeply moving tale that also offers moments of whimsy and wonder within a steampunk-style world. If you ever found yourself wondering why there weren’t more stories that felt like “Treasure Planet,” this is your next read.
In “Heartsmith,” Stephanie Cotta has crafted a must-read for fantasy and science fiction lovers alike, blending beloved elements of both genres for a tinkering, twisting tale that is not just about fixing broken things—figuratively and literally—but the courage it takes to stand up to corruption and greed, living life fully along the way.
September 25, 2024
Where to even begin with this story. It is a wonderful world of steampunk meets gothic horror. We are in the bustling metropolis called Rexanberg. Aaren is a tinker by trade. I absolutely adore his kind heart and his whitty comments. He is hilarious. The connection between Aaren and Aida is beautiful. I want my own Aida. We get to meet intrepid reporter Sasha and her father Derk. The sparks that fly between Aaren and Sasha are so unbelievably adorable. I cannot help but to fall for Tipp Jesper and they way he speaks, dresses, acts....all of it.
The way this book ends makes me itching for the second book. The suspense, twists, adorable romance that is blossoming...I cannot get enough of it. I wasn't sure what to expect with the steampunk aspect, but it fits so perfectly with the story and characters. It does not feel out of place or "gimmicky". I have already looked at all her character profiles (check out her instagram) and they fit perfect with what I had imagined.
I cannot say enough how much I love Stephanie Cotta's mind. Her writing is beautiful and the characters she creates are so full of life. I did not think I would love another series as much as I love her Iron Kingdom series, but this one is up there also.
Favorite Quote (one of many!):
“Luke over sea, Heaven over thee, guide in me, breath of my last, let my Heartspirit pass into he."
The way this book ends makes me itching for the second book. The suspense, twists, adorable romance that is blossoming...I cannot get enough of it. I wasn't sure what to expect with the steampunk aspect, but it fits so perfectly with the story and characters. It does not feel out of place or "gimmicky". I have already looked at all her character profiles (check out her instagram) and they fit perfect with what I had imagined.
I cannot say enough how much I love Stephanie Cotta's mind. Her writing is beautiful and the characters she creates are so full of life. I did not think I would love another series as much as I love her Iron Kingdom series, but this one is up there also.
Favorite Quote (one of many!):
“Luke over sea, Heaven over thee, guide in me, breath of my last, let my Heartspirit pass into he."
February 22, 2025
I confess. I wasn’t a steampunk fantasy fan. But now, that’s in the past. After reading Stephanie Cotta’s Heartsmith, Book 1 In the Heartsmith series, I have a new perspective on this genre. A YA book that teens will love, Heartsmith convinced me that a futuristic dystopian—yet Victorian world is not only possible, but intriguing and able to keep my interest for 250+ pages.
Part adventure, part romance, part gothic horror, Cotta paints a picture of a world in which the villain snatches dead children and recreates them as his minions. The evil doctor’s goal? To find a way to achieve immorality—power over life and death.
The book starts innocently enough. Sixteen-year-old Aaren Lockett, travels to the metropolis of Rexanburg to start a new life. A tinker by trade with dreams of being an inventor, he’s excited to be in a city known for being the hub of industry and innovation. But by the second chapter he’s stumbled into a firefight, is shot at, left for dead, and is resurrected by a woman with lavender skin—his new Heartspirit whose name is Aida. All that in 15 pages.
Aaren’s new world has sky ships that skirmish in the skies above and yet is paved with cobblestone streets where carriages and motor cars whiz by. He meets an attractive young newspaper woman and the two of them band together to uncover the mysteries of where her dead brother’s body disappeared to. This leads them to a seedy neighborhood, and eventually to the skies themselves—and Aaren’s villainous antagonist.
Although the book is written for a general audience, there is Christian symbolism throughout. When Aaren is brought back to after being mortally wounded, Aida tells him that she is a Contract and her people can heal any affliction. “We absorb that affliction, nursing the pain inside our own bodies so our masters may be free of any ill effects. Though mortal wounds come at the cost of our own lives.”
That theme continues as Aida insists Aaren must be healed of his deep wounds from his troubled childhood. After healing sessions with her, he sees a blue light in his veins. Aida says, “This is the FLOW of your Heartspirit. Now that you have unburdened your heart, its Spirit Energy can be used to enter another. This is how we repair afflictions, even Heartspirits.” From then on, Aaren possesses the same power to heal physical pain that Aida has—often at a great cost to himself.
The climax—when Aaren faces the mad doctor who wants to kill him so he can gain Aaren’s power—is both frightening and beautiful. But most of all, it’s an amazing cliffhanger so that every reader will be anxious for Book 2- Heartwrecked.
Part adventure, part romance, part gothic horror, Cotta paints a picture of a world in which the villain snatches dead children and recreates them as his minions. The evil doctor’s goal? To find a way to achieve immorality—power over life and death.
The book starts innocently enough. Sixteen-year-old Aaren Lockett, travels to the metropolis of Rexanburg to start a new life. A tinker by trade with dreams of being an inventor, he’s excited to be in a city known for being the hub of industry and innovation. But by the second chapter he’s stumbled into a firefight, is shot at, left for dead, and is resurrected by a woman with lavender skin—his new Heartspirit whose name is Aida. All that in 15 pages.
Aaren’s new world has sky ships that skirmish in the skies above and yet is paved with cobblestone streets where carriages and motor cars whiz by. He meets an attractive young newspaper woman and the two of them band together to uncover the mysteries of where her dead brother’s body disappeared to. This leads them to a seedy neighborhood, and eventually to the skies themselves—and Aaren’s villainous antagonist.
Although the book is written for a general audience, there is Christian symbolism throughout. When Aaren is brought back to after being mortally wounded, Aida tells him that she is a Contract and her people can heal any affliction. “We absorb that affliction, nursing the pain inside our own bodies so our masters may be free of any ill effects. Though mortal wounds come at the cost of our own lives.”
That theme continues as Aida insists Aaren must be healed of his deep wounds from his troubled childhood. After healing sessions with her, he sees a blue light in his veins. Aida says, “This is the FLOW of your Heartspirit. Now that you have unburdened your heart, its Spirit Energy can be used to enter another. This is how we repair afflictions, even Heartspirits.” From then on, Aaren possesses the same power to heal physical pain that Aida has—often at a great cost to himself.
The climax—when Aaren faces the mad doctor who wants to kill him so he can gain Aaren’s power—is both frightening and beautiful. But most of all, it’s an amazing cliffhanger so that every reader will be anxious for Book 2- Heartwrecked.
August 20, 2024
I was fortunate to be able to read an Advanced Reader Copy of Heartsmith, and I could not put it down! I've always liked the steampunk aesthetic but haven't really read anything in this genre until now. I'm already a fan of Cotta's since reading her YA fantasy series (Conjurer's Curse, Wraiths of Arjun) and was excited to get my hands on this one.
The world building is fantastic (as usual in Cotta's novels!), and the characters are unique. I especially enjoyed Sasha, the MC's spunky love interest, and enjoyed their adventures from the seedy underbelly all the way to the upper echelon of Rexanberg and everywhere in between. The story's twists and turns kept me interested, and the witty banter kept me entertained. I already can't wait to read book 2!
The world building is fantastic (as usual in Cotta's novels!), and the characters are unique. I especially enjoyed Sasha, the MC's spunky love interest, and enjoyed their adventures from the seedy underbelly all the way to the upper echelon of Rexanberg and everywhere in between. The story's twists and turns kept me interested, and the witty banter kept me entertained. I already can't wait to read book 2!
August 28, 2024
Having read The Conjurer’s Curse, I knew I’d love this book just as much. I love anything Stephanie writes; she has a way of bringing characters to life and making it feel as though you’re living alongside them as you read.
When I saw the steampunk/ gothic vibes HEARTSMITH was bringing to the table, I knew I’d fall in love with it, and I DID.
There wasn’t a boring moment in this book and every character brought onto the page, I loved in their own right. Aaren’s kindheartedness, Sasha’s steadfast loyalty and friendship, Aida’s wisdom and quips, and Tipp’s quirky, yet amusing behavior just kept me turning the pages. Don’t get me started on how cool the airships, gothic vibes, and Revenants were!
Also, this book touched me on a deeper level; it’s so relatable. We all have past scars in our hearts that will remain, but knowing that we can heal and accept them is a wonderful message, not just for young readers but for everyone.
Can’t wait for more!
When I saw the steampunk/ gothic vibes HEARTSMITH was bringing to the table, I knew I’d fall in love with it, and I DID.
There wasn’t a boring moment in this book and every character brought onto the page, I loved in their own right. Aaren’s kindheartedness, Sasha’s steadfast loyalty and friendship, Aida’s wisdom and quips, and Tipp’s quirky, yet amusing behavior just kept me turning the pages. Don’t get me started on how cool the airships, gothic vibes, and Revenants were!
Also, this book touched me on a deeper level; it’s so relatable. We all have past scars in our hearts that will remain, but knowing that we can heal and accept them is a wonderful message, not just for young readers but for everyone.
Can’t wait for more!
October 6, 2024
The Tale's Allure is Undeniable!
"Heartsmith" is the first installment in "The Heartsmith Series" by Stephanie Cotta. It's an enthralling Teen and Young Adult Steampunk Horror book with spine-chilling Gothic elements.
The author's writing is a cinematic experience, capturing the reader's imagination with ease. The gothic atmosphere is hauntingly beautiful, perfectly capturing the essence of mystery and suspense. The world-building is a unique blend of steampunk and fantasy elements, creating a memorable setting. The characters are intricately designed, and the relationship between the leads is a highlight of the book.
"Adrenaline pulsed through his body like a roaring wind," perfectly encapsulates the frenetic energy of this action-packed storyline. While the non-stop action was exhilarating,I occasionally felt overwhelmed by the relentless pace. A few more tranquil moments for both the protagonists and readers to catch their breath could have enhanced the pacing and done wonders for plot development and overall enjoyment. Hence, I'm rating it 4.5 stars, rounded up to 5, as the tale enthralled me, and I eagerly await the next installment.
With "Heartsmith," Stephanie Cotta has masterfully crafted a gothic steampunk adventure that grips you from start to finish. The book's overall charm and thrilling plot make it a must-read. I can’t wait to see where the next installment in "The Heartsmith Series" takes us.
I extend my sincere appreciation to the author for granting me access to the eARC—I was thoroughly enchanted by the story.
"Heartsmith" is the first installment in "The Heartsmith Series" by Stephanie Cotta. It's an enthralling Teen and Young Adult Steampunk Horror book with spine-chilling Gothic elements.
The author's writing is a cinematic experience, capturing the reader's imagination with ease. The gothic atmosphere is hauntingly beautiful, perfectly capturing the essence of mystery and suspense. The world-building is a unique blend of steampunk and fantasy elements, creating a memorable setting. The characters are intricately designed, and the relationship between the leads is a highlight of the book.
"Adrenaline pulsed through his body like a roaring wind," perfectly encapsulates the frenetic energy of this action-packed storyline. While the non-stop action was exhilarating,I occasionally felt overwhelmed by the relentless pace. A few more tranquil moments for both the protagonists and readers to catch their breath could have enhanced the pacing and done wonders for plot development and overall enjoyment. Hence, I'm rating it 4.5 stars, rounded up to 5, as the tale enthralled me, and I eagerly await the next installment.
With "Heartsmith," Stephanie Cotta has masterfully crafted a gothic steampunk adventure that grips you from start to finish. The book's overall charm and thrilling plot make it a must-read. I can’t wait to see where the next installment in "The Heartsmith Series" takes us.
I extend my sincere appreciation to the author for granting me access to the eARC—I was thoroughly enchanted by the story.
July 3, 2025
Heartsmith caught my attention and held it all the way through to the end. Stephanie Cotta brings her characters to life with such distinct and unique qualities. I love Aaron, the main character who is, both hero and tinker. This steampunk adventure is full of heart with a dash of goth horror. Heartsmith is a delight!
April 12, 2025
Gripping! I was enthralled by the first paragraph, and can't wait to read more of the series. I love the concept of Heartsmith, of having the ability to heal wounded hearts, which we are all in need of.
October 8, 2024
Heartsmith by Stephanie Cotta is a fabulously fun steampunk adventure! I love all of this author’s books, and this one was so unique with its blend of steampunk and gothic horror. The characters come alive and the world building is fantastic. Readers who want a heart-pounding adventure mixed with humor and romance will love this book!
September 18, 2024
Heartsmith is the kind of book that will lure you in with the promise of adventure, witty characters, and high stakes, but then will hit you in the feels when you least expect it (I want my own Aida plz). The steampunk world and the gothic horror/Frankenstein vibes go surprisingly well together. Aaren and Sasha are characters you will want to root for, and their interactions are so wholesome you'll wish you could be their friend in real life. Also shoutout to Tipp Jesper, who I disliked at first (in a good way), but who grew on me as one of the most unique characters I've read in a long time. Lastly, I couldn't help but imagine the whole story animated in the same style as Treasure Planet. Such a fun and wholesome read, and I can't wait for the next one!
September 9, 2024
This was a very interesting read! The author did a great job with the world building. It was also a wee bit morbid, but not over the top. I love the Steampunk aspect. The characters were delightful! The ending leaves you eagerly awaiting the next book to see what happens. I highly recommend this book!
I received a complimentary copy from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are mine alone.
I received a complimentary copy from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are mine alone.
September 9, 2024
Another amazing adventure from Stephanie Cotta. While Heartsmith tackles a different genre from her Iron Kingdom series, it has the same...er...heart... as her other books. (couldn't be helped). The characters are relatable and engaging, the plot is intriguing, and the adventure is gripping.
I love Steampunk novels, and I have to say that I actually appreciated the lack of in-depth descriptions of how everything worked. I do enjoy getting lost in the mechanics of the technological wonders of many books (like Jim Butcher's Cinder Spires series), but it was refreshing to stick to the characters and action with Cotta's story.
I do have to put a small warning for parents, this is a YA book and not for younger readers. While it is a clean read (no explicit language or gratuitous sex, etc.) it does get violent and a bit descriptive when it comes to injuries.
What I enjoyed most was the mix of steampunk and magic. It truly is a refreshing story that I think readers will enjoy no matter how many times they read it. I can't wait for the continuation.
I love Steampunk novels, and I have to say that I actually appreciated the lack of in-depth descriptions of how everything worked. I do enjoy getting lost in the mechanics of the technological wonders of many books (like Jim Butcher's Cinder Spires series), but it was refreshing to stick to the characters and action with Cotta's story.
I do have to put a small warning for parents, this is a YA book and not for younger readers. While it is a clean read (no explicit language or gratuitous sex, etc.) it does get violent and a bit descriptive when it comes to injuries.
What I enjoyed most was the mix of steampunk and magic. It truly is a refreshing story that I think readers will enjoy no matter how many times they read it. I can't wait for the continuation.
February 9, 2025
This was a unique fantasy world that I have never experienced before. I enjoyed following Aren’s story. I laughed, I got embarrassed, and I tot scared for him. The ending sealed the need for a sequel! I am so looking forward to reading it to continue the adventure!
October 2, 2024
Heartsmith is an exhilarating fusion of steampunk and gothic horror set against the backdrop of the dynamic, industrial city of Rexanberg. Sixteen-year-old orphan Aaren Lockett arrives in this sprawling metropolis seeking a fresh start as a Tinker. However, his life quickly veers into the unexpected after a fateful encounter with the Hochs, a dominant faction controlling the city. When Aaren is gifted a literal new heart, he embarks on a perilous journey, tinkering with far more than machines. With the tenacious Sasha Loren, a journalist drawn to the macabre, Aaren uncovers a harrowing conspiracy involving reanimated corpses and a deranged scientist's twisted experiments. As they explore the city's shadowy depths, tension mounts, and they are forced to race against time to thwart a malevolent force that threatens to claim their lives.
Stephanie Cotta's Heartsmith grips you from the first page, immersing you in a steampunk adventure brimming with suspense. Aaren is a compelling protagonist, blending youthful innocence with unyielding resolve, and his partnership with Sasha is both thrilling and endearing. Rexanberg itself feels almost alive, with its vibrant streets, looming skyscrapers, and dark underworld brimming with corruption. Cotta’s vivid descriptions breathe life into this world, making it easy for readers to lose themselves in its richly crafted atmosphere. The city of Rexanberg serves as more than a mere setting; it becomes an integral character. Cotta’s skillful depiction of the industrial marvels and hidden gothic decay infuses Rexanberg with a palpable sense of foreboding. The detailed portrayal of seedy neighborhoods, rival factions, and ominous skyships evokes the clang of metal and the thick scent of engine oil. This intricate world-building perfectly complements the steampunk genre, and Cotta’s mastery shines through. The novel’s pacing is deftly managed, balancing gripping action with sharp dialogue and unexpected emotional depth. Aaren’s transformation—from a hopeful tinkerer to someone who mends both hearts and lives—lends the story a resonant layer of meaning. The gothic horror elements, particularly the Frankenstein-esque experiments, cast a chilling shadow over the plot, maintaining a constant sense of unease.
Heartsmith is a must-read for fans of steampunk, mystery, and gothic horror. It offers plenty of plot twists, unforgettable characters, and a world so meticulously designed that it seems to demand a sequel. If you're in search of an eerie, thrilling adventure, this novel will not disappoint.
Stephanie Cotta's Heartsmith grips you from the first page, immersing you in a steampunk adventure brimming with suspense. Aaren is a compelling protagonist, blending youthful innocence with unyielding resolve, and his partnership with Sasha is both thrilling and endearing. Rexanberg itself feels almost alive, with its vibrant streets, looming skyscrapers, and dark underworld brimming with corruption. Cotta’s vivid descriptions breathe life into this world, making it easy for readers to lose themselves in its richly crafted atmosphere. The city of Rexanberg serves as more than a mere setting; it becomes an integral character. Cotta’s skillful depiction of the industrial marvels and hidden gothic decay infuses Rexanberg with a palpable sense of foreboding. The detailed portrayal of seedy neighborhoods, rival factions, and ominous skyships evokes the clang of metal and the thick scent of engine oil. This intricate world-building perfectly complements the steampunk genre, and Cotta’s mastery shines through. The novel’s pacing is deftly managed, balancing gripping action with sharp dialogue and unexpected emotional depth. Aaren’s transformation—from a hopeful tinkerer to someone who mends both hearts and lives—lends the story a resonant layer of meaning. The gothic horror elements, particularly the Frankenstein-esque experiments, cast a chilling shadow over the plot, maintaining a constant sense of unease.
Heartsmith is a must-read for fans of steampunk, mystery, and gothic horror. It offers plenty of plot twists, unforgettable characters, and a world so meticulously designed that it seems to demand a sequel. If you're in search of an eerie, thrilling adventure, this novel will not disappoint.
September 28, 2024
Aaren Lockett has moved to a new town to start a new business, but soon after, he is shot in a gang warfare scuffle on the streets of Rexanburg. His story doesn't end here, through the magic of a being called a Contract, he is saved and spun into a mysterious pursuit of missing people.
Stephanie Cotta does a well-oiled cog machine of creativity in totally immersing the reader in this Steampunk fantasy. The descriptive details from the city, slums, outerwear, down to Aaren's pocket watch pulls you into a theatrical display of mystery and intrigue of both past and present. The characters are delightfully crafted in the same comparison to Charles Dickens. The complex world-building is similar to the Mortal Engines series of the same genre.
I found the story fascinating and intriguing. I love the time Stephanie took to introduce and get the reader to know the characters, especially Aaren, the orphan with a mysterious past and Sasha, a spitfire of a young lady, who is different from the typical women we find in novels. She is ready to tackle on problems without hesitation, especially when it comes to the missing body of her brother.
Not only do we experience the genre of Steampunk, but other genres are interwoven within also. The ending chapters, and the turn of events, bears on horror with cadavers and bodily experiments almost reminiscent of Frankenstein with a twist. Even, Sasha has a pet spider named Garth.
Did I mention airships? There are airships!! Neisha is a pilot, who races the vessels and has a dog co-pilot, sort of. She reminds me of Han Solo, very protective of her aircraft, but also, one of the best pilots around.
If you love Steampunk, make Heartsmith your next read. Also, follow Stephanie on social media or sign up for her newsletter. I don't know a lot of authors who engage more frequently with her readers or puts more work into marketing than her from TikTok videos to even her own podcast.
Stephanie Cotta does a well-oiled cog machine of creativity in totally immersing the reader in this Steampunk fantasy. The descriptive details from the city, slums, outerwear, down to Aaren's pocket watch pulls you into a theatrical display of mystery and intrigue of both past and present. The characters are delightfully crafted in the same comparison to Charles Dickens. The complex world-building is similar to the Mortal Engines series of the same genre.
I found the story fascinating and intriguing. I love the time Stephanie took to introduce and get the reader to know the characters, especially Aaren, the orphan with a mysterious past and Sasha, a spitfire of a young lady, who is different from the typical women we find in novels. She is ready to tackle on problems without hesitation, especially when it comes to the missing body of her brother.
Not only do we experience the genre of Steampunk, but other genres are interwoven within also. The ending chapters, and the turn of events, bears on horror with cadavers and bodily experiments almost reminiscent of Frankenstein with a twist. Even, Sasha has a pet spider named Garth.
Did I mention airships? There are airships!! Neisha is a pilot, who races the vessels and has a dog co-pilot, sort of. She reminds me of Han Solo, very protective of her aircraft, but also, one of the best pilots around.
If you love Steampunk, make Heartsmith your next read. Also, follow Stephanie on social media or sign up for her newsletter. I don't know a lot of authors who engage more frequently with her readers or puts more work into marketing than her from TikTok videos to even her own podcast.
October 15, 2024
If anyone knows about moving away and wanting a fresh start, it’s me. I also know that wherever you go, you take your problems with you and just because the scenery around you changes doesn’t mean you’ve truly healed or addressed past trauma/challenges. In this fast-paced and entertaining YA novel, Aaren also wants a fresh start. But he ends up with so much more than just that. This is a heart-pounding adventure with relatable characters you love and feel for that also has a rich emotional depth with satisfying character arcs. The world-building is spectacular, and reading this book is like watching a movie on an IMAX screen. Huge congrats to author Stephanie Cotta, and I can’t wait for Book 2!
May 28, 2025
I have never read a steampunk fantasy book before, but Heartsmith exceeded my expectations. This novel was fast paced, entertaining, and beautifully written. I absolutely loved the main female character Sasha, because she isn’t your average “girly girl”. Sasha isn’t afraid to get her hands dirty, is fiercely loyal, and has an odd fascination with all things macabre. The dark mystery within this story had me on the edge of my seat from start to finish. The elements of adventure, romance, friendship, and Gothic horror were pure perfection! This Oliver twist meets Frankenstein inspired novel is one of the best books that I’ve read this year and I can’t wait to read the second installment in this series!
October 1, 2024
Being a high school English teacher, I’ve had a lot of opportunity to read the genre of steampunk; but to say that this book rises above all others is an under statement. I loved this book!! I could not put Heartsmith down! I was rooting for Aaren and Sasha, and each character developed a special place in my heart. Stephanie Cotta’s writing leaves you excited to flip to the next page to see what will happen next. She has a wonderful way of descriptive writing where you can close your eyes and feel you are there with the characters in each scene. I highly recommend this book to any high school age and older readers. I cannot wait for the next book in this series.
September 25, 2024
Cotta has created a detailed, troubled world with compelling characters you can't help but root for! A wonderful beginning to her series.
September 1, 2025
This is exactly the kind of YA steampunk book I've needed all my life. Absolutely incredible! Highly recommend!
September 16, 2024
I have to say this is probably my favorite book I’ve read by this author. The characters are witty, humorous, and sweet. It has tensions, plenty of light hearted comedy woven in, and high stakes and of course mystery! Some moments remind me of Castle in the Sky (he saves Adia and became his heartsprint —you will learn more once you read the book—because bad guys are after her) and Murdock mystery (Victorian era with crazy new inventions and solving a murder case). It is clean with no spice or foul language. It has some mild violence and a building gets on fire). I highly recommend the book if you like gothic steampunk with mystery and a touch of a sweet romance.
October 1, 2024
“Maybe wishes are like dreams, then,” Aaren mused, staring across the expanse. “For ’em to come true, you must be persistent, like a ticking clock, always moving toward the next hour, never stalling, ’cause you never know at what time your wish may come true.”
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This book was so adorable. I loved how the pacing kept you constantly engaged with the story, and how you got to know the characters straight away!
I love this steampunk world the author created, it's gritty and large, but it's also a world where kids can dream and be anything they want to be. Where they can have a heart-soul friend with them at all times, reminding them how important it is to take care of your heart.
I can't wait until book two and to see where this story takes us!
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This book was so adorable. I loved how the pacing kept you constantly engaged with the story, and how you got to know the characters straight away!
I love this steampunk world the author created, it's gritty and large, but it's also a world where kids can dream and be anything they want to be. Where they can have a heart-soul friend with them at all times, reminding them how important it is to take care of your heart.
I can't wait until book two and to see where this story takes us!
February 10, 2025
Heartsmith pulls you into the atmospheric streets of Rexanburg, where a gripping blend of steampunk and gothic elements unfolds. The narrative moves from the gritty underworld to the city's towering heights, all while keeping readers on the edge with unexpected twists and dark secrets.
Aaren's journey, from being caught in a gang skirmish to being thrust into a strange pursuit, is complemented by his complex relationship with Sasha, whose fierce independence adds both humor and heart to the story. The city itself feels alive, with richly detailed settings and a world that thrives on intrigue. Whether you're drawn to steampunk, mystery, or a bit of horror, Heartsmith delivers in spades. A must-read for fans of unique, high-stakes adventure.
Aaren's journey, from being caught in a gang skirmish to being thrust into a strange pursuit, is complemented by his complex relationship with Sasha, whose fierce independence adds both humor and heart to the story. The city itself feels alive, with richly detailed settings and a world that thrives on intrigue. Whether you're drawn to steampunk, mystery, or a bit of horror, Heartsmith delivers in spades. A must-read for fans of unique, high-stakes adventure.
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