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Stoker & Holmes #2
The Spiritglass Charade
After the Affair of the Clockwork Scarab, Evaline Stoker and Mina Holmes are eager to help Princess Alix with a new case. Seventeen-year-old Willa Aston is obsessed with spiritual mediums, convinced she is speaking with her mother from beyond the grave. What seems like a case of spiritualist fraud quickly devolves into something far more menacing: someone is trying to make Willa "appear lunatic," using an innocent-looking spiritglass to control her. The list of clues piles up: an unexpected murder, a gang of pickpockets, and the return of vampires to London. But are these events connected? As Uncle Sherlock would say, "there are no coincidences." It will take all of Mina's wit and Evaline's muscle to keep London's sinister underground at bay.
362 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 7, 2014
143 people are currently reading
3695 people want to read
About the author
Colleen Gleason
105 books1,686 followersAward-winning, NEW YORK TIMES and USA Today bestselling author Colleen Gleason (who also writes as Colleen Cambridge) has written more than fifty novels in a variety of genres…but always feature smart, strong women determined to right wrongs and get shit done.
Colleen lives in the Midwest United States where she is fortunate enough to be working on her next book.
She loves to hear from readers via her website, Facebook, or GoodReads.
Colleen lives in the Midwest United States where she is fortunate enough to be working on her next book.
She loves to hear from readers via her website, Facebook, or GoodReads.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 437 reviews
December 29, 2014
I am not sure how Colleen Gleason pulls these books off, but she does.
First of all, they are such an impractical hodgepodge of genres and ideas. In one book, we have Victoriana, historical fiction, steampunk, paranormal, fantasy, mystery, time travel and a little romance. You would think that would be clunky as hell and overall crap, kind of like if you just took all the random stuff in a kitchen and threw it together. Only rarely does that ever work. But it definitely works here.
Both books in this series so far are well-researched and thought-out. They move quickly without being cumbersomely long with a lot of filler. Things happen quickly and continue to move along. This second one does end with a bit of a cliffhanger, but I've read somewhere the author intends this series to be 5 books in length.
My only complaint with the characters lies in the names, and that's mostly my problem. In the original "Dracula", by Bram Stoker, we have a character named Mina Harker. In these books we have two characters, one who is supposedly the sister of Bram Stoker, named Evaline. Then we have the niece of Sherlock Holmes, Mina Holmes. I keep getting confused on who is who.
There is very little about the characters I don't love, especially the men. How does one choose between Pix, Inspector Grayling and Dylan? If only the real world were populated with men like these.
And then, to top it all off, there are the city and food descriptions. I've been to London. I LOVED London. But it was nothing like this multi-level steampunk version, sadly. And then there are the food vendors. The first book described some kind of carrot thing that made me crave carrots - and that's just weird. This book made me wish for Honeyed Creme Mandarins.
Oh, and my favorite new character of this book? A dog with a mechanical leg!!! Not just any dog, but a beagle puppy. For crying out loud - I hope Colleen Gleason lets us keep Angus!
To say more would just be ruining the fun.
First of all, they are such an impractical hodgepodge of genres and ideas. In one book, we have Victoriana, historical fiction, steampunk, paranormal, fantasy, mystery, time travel and a little romance. You would think that would be clunky as hell and overall crap, kind of like if you just took all the random stuff in a kitchen and threw it together. Only rarely does that ever work. But it definitely works here.
Both books in this series so far are well-researched and thought-out. They move quickly without being cumbersomely long with a lot of filler. Things happen quickly and continue to move along. This second one does end with a bit of a cliffhanger, but I've read somewhere the author intends this series to be 5 books in length.
My only complaint with the characters lies in the names, and that's mostly my problem. In the original "Dracula", by Bram Stoker, we have a character named Mina Harker. In these books we have two characters, one who is supposedly the sister of Bram Stoker, named Evaline. Then we have the niece of Sherlock Holmes, Mina Holmes. I keep getting confused on who is who.
There is very little about the characters I don't love, especially the men. How does one choose between Pix, Inspector Grayling and Dylan? If only the real world were populated with men like these.
And then, to top it all off, there are the city and food descriptions. I've been to London. I LOVED London. But it was nothing like this multi-level steampunk version, sadly. And then there are the food vendors. The first book described some kind of carrot thing that made me crave carrots - and that's just weird. This book made me wish for Honeyed Creme Mandarins.
Oh, and my favorite new character of this book? A dog with a mechanical leg!!! Not just any dog, but a beagle puppy. For crying out loud - I hope Colleen Gleason lets us keep Angus!
To say more would just be ruining the fun.
October 8, 2014
Spoilers
Liked it, the story was pretty entertaining and most of the secondary characters were good, the main characters weren't all that endearing though. It still didn't have all the greatness, romance, and humour of Gleason's adult Gardella Vampire Hunters series.
-Didn't like the dual POV much. Mina and Evaline's narration were mostly similar, even when Mina was deducing and observing things and Evaline was chatting about vampires and killing, they still sounded the same. They both had kind of a similar stilted and monotonous thought process.
Also, both of them spent too much of their time describing guys or clothes or some other pointless nonsense.
Both Mina and Evaline were far more interesting when they weren't narrating, Mina was more likeable in Evaline's POV and vice versa. They were both fun and likeable when they weren't the POV character.
-The mystery involving Willa Ashton's craziness and missing brother was quite interesting. It wasn't obvious what was going on or why it was going on or who the bad guy was, it was done rather well.
-One thing that irritated me about Mina was her whining about her looks and how she wasn't marriageable because she was cold and logical or some rubbish. It was hard to believe any of her insecurities when she got emotional over eye contact with one of her love interests and had two guys chasing after her. Also, her Sherlock-like deductions were a bit forced and more smug than intellectual.
-Evaline was a bit cocky and reckless at times, but I didn't mind that too much, it gave her a bit of depth. I wasn't impressed with her behaviour around Pix though, he was too secretive and douchey around her - Evaline should have just told him too piss right off.
-Hated Pix, he was a prick. It pissed me off that he did nothing whilst Evaline was being felt up and threatened. And then him blaming her for the guy feeling her up was fucked up. He went more down in my opinion when he more or less said he was cool with hiring rapists and men who terrorized women. He was a cliched, misogynistic loser.
Also, I hated the way he spoke, his cockney accent/slang was over the top and made him 'sound' like a fool.
-I couldn't take Mina or Evaline all that seriously as investigators/badarses whenever they blushed, swooned and acted hormonal over a touch or a look from one of their love interests. I wanted them to be more cool and collected around the guys.
-Dylan was a decent character, but he didn't fit very well into the story, I didn't see the point of him being there or the whole time travel aspect.
-Grayling was the best character. I loved all his scenes with Mina, they were so sweet and cute together. I especially loved the river/corset scene.
-The world was a bit vague/difficult to picture at times, especially the buildings/walkways/balloon things.
-The Ankh stuff from the last book wasn't really dealt with, I'm guessing that'll be sorted out in the next one.
All in all, an enjoyable enough read.. Just would have liked more detailed world building and Mina/Evaline's narration to be more gripping and exciting.
Liked it, the story was pretty entertaining and most of the secondary characters were good, the main characters weren't all that endearing though. It still didn't have all the greatness, romance, and humour of Gleason's adult Gardella Vampire Hunters series.
-Didn't like the dual POV much. Mina and Evaline's narration were mostly similar, even when Mina was deducing and observing things and Evaline was chatting about vampires and killing, they still sounded the same. They both had kind of a similar stilted and monotonous thought process.
Also, both of them spent too much of their time describing guys or clothes or some other pointless nonsense.
Both Mina and Evaline were far more interesting when they weren't narrating, Mina was more likeable in Evaline's POV and vice versa. They were both fun and likeable when they weren't the POV character.
-The mystery involving Willa Ashton's craziness and missing brother was quite interesting. It wasn't obvious what was going on or why it was going on or who the bad guy was, it was done rather well.
-One thing that irritated me about Mina was her whining about her looks and how she wasn't marriageable because she was cold and logical or some rubbish. It was hard to believe any of her insecurities when she got emotional over eye contact with one of her love interests and had two guys chasing after her. Also, her Sherlock-like deductions were a bit forced and more smug than intellectual.
-Evaline was a bit cocky and reckless at times, but I didn't mind that too much, it gave her a bit of depth. I wasn't impressed with her behaviour around Pix though, he was too secretive and douchey around her - Evaline should have just told him too piss right off.
-Hated Pix, he was a prick. It pissed me off that he did nothing whilst Evaline was being felt up and threatened. And then him blaming her for the guy feeling her up was fucked up. He went more down in my opinion when he more or less said he was cool with hiring rapists and men who terrorized women. He was a cliched, misogynistic loser.
Also, I hated the way he spoke, his cockney accent/slang was over the top and made him 'sound' like a fool.
-I couldn't take Mina or Evaline all that seriously as investigators/badarses whenever they blushed, swooned and acted hormonal over a touch or a look from one of their love interests. I wanted them to be more cool and collected around the guys.
-Dylan was a decent character, but he didn't fit very well into the story, I didn't see the point of him being there or the whole time travel aspect.
-Grayling was the best character. I loved all his scenes with Mina, they were so sweet and cute together. I especially loved the river/corset scene.
-The world was a bit vague/difficult to picture at times, especially the buildings/walkways/balloon things.
-The Ankh stuff from the last book wasn't really dealt with, I'm guessing that'll be sorted out in the next one.
All in all, an enjoyable enough read.. Just would have liked more detailed world building and Mina/Evaline's narration to be more gripping and exciting.
June 9, 2023
HEYOOOO
REVIEW TO COME LATE
REVIEW TO COME LATE
January 19, 2015
5 Words: Sherlock Holmes, Vampires, Steampunk, crime.
What a twist at the end!
Full review to come.
What a twist at the end!
Full review to come.
January 4, 2015
I continue to adore the atmosphere of the books and the writing, which reads like I always imagined London in the 19th century would look and feel like, with the addition of the steampunk aspect. Additionally, in this installment I liked the case, or at least the last part of it, far more than I did in The Clockwork Scarab. Ultimately though, the downfall of this series is the fact that between the two girls, there are three gentlemen that they either have kissed, are kissing, or wish to kiss. The fact that one of these boys basically overlaps between the two girls is even more annoying, though I suppose it helps that their feelings towards him are just mild infatuations. Also unfortunately, the two girls switch narration but their individual voices are not very unique, so occasionally I would find myself looking at the top of the page to ascertain whose POV I was reading. And let's not forget that Dylan and his time-travel plot actually go nowhere in this book, which I found most frustrating. I must confess I was not planning on reading Book 3 until I read ( and re-read) the last page of this, and gave in. Darn you, plot twist!!
But there was this:
What? Why? How is this a helpful description? I have seen small oranges and large oranges, but overall they're all decently oranged-sized. I fail to see what "plum-sized" adds to this description, other than making me laugh.
But there was this:
" The plum-sized orange.."
What? Why? How is this a helpful description? I have seen small oranges and large oranges, but overall they're all decently oranged-sized. I fail to see what "plum-sized" adds to this description, other than making me laugh.
April 20, 2022
adoro lo steam-punk
la gleason poi è una garanzia!
la gleason poi è una garanzia!
July 5, 2018
5/5 stars
“Wha--huh? You've made a mistake? You? Wait... The world isn't ending. Big Ben's Infinity Day Clock has stopped. You can't have made a mistake. It's simply not... possible. It's a day just like any other day.”
If I loved Clockwork Scarab once, I loved this ten times more.
I loved how Mina, Evaline and Dylan grew as a group and started to have fun and get to know each other better, and I absolutely loved Mina and Dylan as a couple (there was a special scene and my shipper heart died). I also adored Mina and Evaline's strong platonic bond, and the way they got over their differences and started to find strength in each other. I really, really loved that.
This book, except of the mind-blowing, page-turning mystery, also included tons of humorous scenes and a lot about the past of every character, as well as their deeper thoughts and feelings. This time, it dealt with thoughts on psychics and fortune-telling, as well as science and the way it sometimes got tangled with occult back in these ages, even since the industrial revolution had started. Not only that, but the book brought a subplot of vampires, the reappearing of which was not only genius, but also incredibly original in the way it was portrayed.
The writing, as always, made my eyes fly on every page, as it made everything even more fast paced and exciting, adding some formality in certain scenes and describing certain situations in a different light for each of the protagonists. The difference between Mina and Evaline, mind and heart, was even stronger and I admired the fact that we came to see the way Eva's work takes a toll on her, and the way Mina's thoughts and feelings sometimes turn against her.
Another thing I fell in love with was another great friendship, the one between Mina and Willa, which was adorable, despite its disappointing end. It proved to me that the writer really knows how to write not only romantic but also strong platonic relationships that made me smile and warmed my heart in the best way possible. The only character I despised (and still do) was Pix, who, as I stated in Clockwork Scarab's review, annoys me a lot.
This sequel also helped the reader dive a lot more in characters like Dylan and Irene Adler, because we hadn't seen too much of them before, and it really helped me get to know them better. Last but not least, I have to say that at some point, there was a killing scene, and it portrayed it in a way that made me so happy, because it showed that even if it's necessary as an act, it is never pleasant, and it takes something from the killer, as it is a very heavy experience.
I love, love, loved it, in general, and it kind of reminded me of a Grimm episode (ahhh, I love this series), something that made me even more eager to continue the series. I am infinitely excited to see how the story of these two, kick-ass, amazing heroines, Mina and Evaline, continues, as well as how everything that has happened and is about to happen will affect their friendship and their characters as a whole.
If you are new to the steampunk genre, and want to read something with a great female friendship, mystery, action, romance and suspence, please try this. It will not leave you unsatisfied, I guarantee it. I love it from the bottom of my heart.
Stay strong and keep reading, my friends ♥♥
~Mary
“Wha--huh? You've made a mistake? You? Wait... The world isn't ending. Big Ben's Infinity Day Clock has stopped. You can't have made a mistake. It's simply not... possible. It's a day just like any other day.”
If I loved Clockwork Scarab once, I loved this ten times more.
I loved how Mina, Evaline and Dylan grew as a group and started to have fun and get to know each other better, and I absolutely loved Mina and Dylan as a couple (there was a special scene and my shipper heart died). I also adored Mina and Evaline's strong platonic bond, and the way they got over their differences and started to find strength in each other. I really, really loved that.
This book, except of the mind-blowing, page-turning mystery, also included tons of humorous scenes and a lot about the past of every character, as well as their deeper thoughts and feelings. This time, it dealt with thoughts on psychics and fortune-telling, as well as science and the way it sometimes got tangled with occult back in these ages, even since the industrial revolution had started. Not only that, but the book brought a subplot of vampires, the reappearing of which was not only genius, but also incredibly original in the way it was portrayed.
The writing, as always, made my eyes fly on every page, as it made everything even more fast paced and exciting, adding some formality in certain scenes and describing certain situations in a different light for each of the protagonists. The difference between Mina and Evaline, mind and heart, was even stronger and I admired the fact that we came to see the way Eva's work takes a toll on her, and the way Mina's thoughts and feelings sometimes turn against her.
Another thing I fell in love with was another great friendship, the one between Mina and Willa, which was adorable, despite its disappointing end. It proved to me that the writer really knows how to write not only romantic but also strong platonic relationships that made me smile and warmed my heart in the best way possible. The only character I despised (and still do) was Pix, who, as I stated in Clockwork Scarab's review, annoys me a lot.
This sequel also helped the reader dive a lot more in characters like Dylan and Irene Adler, because we hadn't seen too much of them before, and it really helped me get to know them better. Last but not least, I have to say that at some point, there was a killing scene, and it portrayed it in a way that made me so happy, because it showed that even if it's necessary as an act, it is never pleasant, and it takes something from the killer, as it is a very heavy experience.
I love, love, loved it, in general, and it kind of reminded me of a Grimm episode (ahhh, I love this series), something that made me even more eager to continue the series. I am infinitely excited to see how the story of these two, kick-ass, amazing heroines, Mina and Evaline, continues, as well as how everything that has happened and is about to happen will affect their friendship and their characters as a whole.
If you are new to the steampunk genre, and want to read something with a great female friendship, mystery, action, romance and suspence, please try this. It will not leave you unsatisfied, I guarantee it. I love it from the bottom of my heart.
Stay strong and keep reading, my friends ♥♥
~Mary
August 27, 2021
3.5 stars
This series is SO MUCH FUN. Like, how can I not totally adore a lady power steampunk fantasy romance extravaganza? There’s just so much to love about that.
One of my favorite things is when historical novels focus on people ignored by history, like women. Instead of Sherlock Holmes, we have his equally as logical and observant niece Mina Holmes. Then there’s the vampire-killing Miss Stoker, inspiration (in this series) for the only good part of Dracula (personal opinion), which is in the process of being authored by her brother.
In The Spiritglass Charade, Stoker and Holmes have really started to become friends. They’re also plumbing new depths of character. I love that they’re really rubbing off on each other now, with Mina exhibiting some physicality and Evaline learning the art of deduction. They’re still not besties, but they rely on each other now in a way they did not before.
The plot of The Spiritglass Charade was much more fast-paced, and I could hardly put the book down. Though the initial assignment (to figure out if a young girl was being duped by spiritualists) was rather unimpressive, the case balloons out into something very intense.
I was a bit worried about how I’d feel when the series got more into vampires and the paranormal, but it actually turned out well so far. I enjoy the steampunk fun, but the fantasy really blends nicely. I’m still waiting to see how the alternate reality/time travel bit will integrate, but I’m pleasantly hopeful that the whole Dylan thing will play out well. He actually seems to be starting to serve a real plot purpose now, and I like that he seems to have been brought in for later plot, which means Gleason probably didn’t write herself into a corner with that. Yay!
In forthcoming volumes, I’m really looking forward to learning more about Miss Adler, Mina’s mother, and seeing what use Dylan is put to (since obviously he won’t be Mina’s love interest). There are some really interesting advances here, and my curiosity has been stoked. Also, Grayling has a puppy and it’s the cutest fucking thing that ever happened (and Mina clearly you love him please make out with his face).
This series is SO MUCH FUN. Like, how can I not totally adore a lady power steampunk fantasy romance extravaganza? There’s just so much to love about that.
One of my favorite things is when historical novels focus on people ignored by history, like women. Instead of Sherlock Holmes, we have his equally as logical and observant niece Mina Holmes. Then there’s the vampire-killing Miss Stoker, inspiration (in this series) for the only good part of Dracula (personal opinion), which is in the process of being authored by her brother.
In The Spiritglass Charade, Stoker and Holmes have really started to become friends. They’re also plumbing new depths of character. I love that they’re really rubbing off on each other now, with Mina exhibiting some physicality and Evaline learning the art of deduction. They’re still not besties, but they rely on each other now in a way they did not before.
The plot of The Spiritglass Charade was much more fast-paced, and I could hardly put the book down. Though the initial assignment (to figure out if a young girl was being duped by spiritualists) was rather unimpressive, the case balloons out into something very intense.
I was a bit worried about how I’d feel when the series got more into vampires and the paranormal, but it actually turned out well so far. I enjoy the steampunk fun, but the fantasy really blends nicely. I’m still waiting to see how the alternate reality/time travel bit will integrate, but I’m pleasantly hopeful that the whole Dylan thing will play out well. He actually seems to be starting to serve a real plot purpose now, and I like that he seems to have been brought in for later plot, which means Gleason probably didn’t write herself into a corner with that. Yay!
In forthcoming volumes, I’m really looking forward to learning more about Miss Adler, Mina’s mother, and seeing what use Dylan is put to (
October 14, 2014
This is the second in the series, and the second time I've wished Miss Stoker were the only narrator. There's no denying my bias here, since I love the Gardella Vampire series and Eva is a direct descendent of Victoria.
With that said, Miss Holmes' narration is just a bit too arrogant for me. I get that she's the niece of Sherlock and is super smart, but she's truly not a pleasant girl to be around. And her detailed, sometimes unnecessary descriptions... sadly they just annoy me. I think the split narration prevents me from truly identifying with Mina, whereas my past experience with the Gardella family has substituted for Eva.
The case in The Spiritglass Charade isn't particularly creative or unique. A young girl is being tricked by someone close to her to either get her fortune or otherwise take control of her life. The list of suspects isn't long and both Dylan and the Inspector Grayling are back again. I'm personally a bit frustrated at how the relationships are developing between Mina and these two young men. There's not enough chemistry between Miss Holmes and either of these two to generate feelings of excitement from the reader. In fact, there isn't even enough chemistry for this to feel like a love triangle.
As for Eva, she's still wrapped up with Pix and I am damn near desperate for more information about him and for their relationship to develop further. I will agree with the reviewer who said his accent is annoying but I disagree about his actions... I think they're the greatest mystery this series has to-date and I want more.
While the level of detail Mina gave to describing things was frustrating, I could not find fault with the descriptions of their outfits. Loved. Loved loved loved. Moar please.
Otherwise, this is a fun read and super light. There's not enough character development to truly get attached to anyone, so you won't have your heart wrenched when this one ends, though the last line made my Gardella-loving-heart thump a bit.
Side note: A year or more between publication means you will need to brush up on the ending of the previous story before reading this one. It might not be a bad idea to let all of these come out and read them in one sitting. Otherwise details are easily forgotten. I might skip the next few for just this reason.
With that said, Miss Holmes' narration is just a bit too arrogant for me. I get that she's the niece of Sherlock and is super smart, but she's truly not a pleasant girl to be around. And her detailed, sometimes unnecessary descriptions... sadly they just annoy me. I think the split narration prevents me from truly identifying with Mina, whereas my past experience with the Gardella family has substituted for Eva.
The case in The Spiritglass Charade isn't particularly creative or unique. A young girl is being tricked by someone close to her to either get her fortune or otherwise take control of her life. The list of suspects isn't long and both Dylan and the Inspector Grayling are back again. I'm personally a bit frustrated at how the relationships are developing between Mina and these two young men. There's not enough chemistry between Miss Holmes and either of these two to generate feelings of excitement from the reader. In fact, there isn't even enough chemistry for this to feel like a love triangle.
As for Eva, she's still wrapped up with Pix and I am damn near desperate for more information about him and for their relationship to develop further. I will agree with the reviewer who said his accent is annoying but I disagree about his actions... I think they're the greatest mystery this series has to-date and I want more.
While the level of detail Mina gave to describing things was frustrating, I could not find fault with the descriptions of their outfits. Loved. Loved loved loved. Moar please.
Otherwise, this is a fun read and super light. There's not enough character development to truly get attached to anyone, so you won't have your heart wrenched when this one ends, though the last line made my Gardella-loving-heart thump a bit.
Side note: A year or more between publication means you will need to brush up on the ending of the previous story before reading this one. It might not be a bad idea to let all of these come out and read them in one sitting. Otherwise details are easily forgotten. I might skip the next few for just this reason.
November 14, 2014
*The following text is an honest, spoiler free review. Please enjoy*
WARNING: Expect fangirling, romance, steampunky stuff, Twilight reference (I love the author for this one), and plot twists. That is as spoilery as I go which really isn’t because if you have read the first book this is generally what these books are about so… yeah.
In an alternate version of our past Evaline Stoker (sister of Bram Stoker author of Dracula) and Mina Holmes (niece of Sherlock Holmes) have been paired up to solve the crimes that no one else can. After they proved themselves in the events of the Affair of the Clockwork Scarab, Princess Alix once again asks for their help. This time with 17 year-old Willa Ashton who stuck in grief of her mother’s death and her brother’s disappearance she has turned to mediums and seances in order to contact them. When things start escalating from bad to worse they will have to rush to solve this crime before it comes to an end.
To understand my excitement over this book imagine a small petite girl with glasses standing in front of the YA new book section squealing when she sees this book. Then imagine that same girl curled up in a recliner that practically dwarfs her slamming the book down when she is done with it 3 hours later because she can’t wait for the next book. Yeah that pretty much sums up that excitement but you have to understand that I love steampunk to no end. Stoker and Holmes series welcome to my #1 position on my favorite books list.
Colleen Gleason you are a literary genius so here is that 5 out of 5 stars you deserve. I got no faults to claim you on :)
For more spoiler free, honest reviews go to my actual blog: http://sweetendbook.blogspot.com/
Books, books, and more books, follow me on twitter @SweetEndReviews
For the story behind the reviews check out my facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/SweetEndReviews
WARNING: Expect fangirling, romance, steampunky stuff, Twilight reference (I love the author for this one), and plot twists. That is as spoilery as I go which really isn’t because if you have read the first book this is generally what these books are about so… yeah.
In an alternate version of our past Evaline Stoker (sister of Bram Stoker author of Dracula) and Mina Holmes (niece of Sherlock Holmes) have been paired up to solve the crimes that no one else can. After they proved themselves in the events of the Affair of the Clockwork Scarab, Princess Alix once again asks for their help. This time with 17 year-old Willa Ashton who stuck in grief of her mother’s death and her brother’s disappearance she has turned to mediums and seances in order to contact them. When things start escalating from bad to worse they will have to rush to solve this crime before it comes to an end.
To understand my excitement over this book imagine a small petite girl with glasses standing in front of the YA new book section squealing when she sees this book. Then imagine that same girl curled up in a recliner that practically dwarfs her slamming the book down when she is done with it 3 hours later because she can’t wait for the next book. Yeah that pretty much sums up that excitement but you have to understand that I love steampunk to no end. Stoker and Holmes series welcome to my #1 position on my favorite books list.
Colleen Gleason you are a literary genius so here is that 5 out of 5 stars you deserve. I got no faults to claim you on :)
For more spoiler free, honest reviews go to my actual blog: http://sweetendbook.blogspot.com/
Books, books, and more books, follow me on twitter @SweetEndReviews
For the story behind the reviews check out my facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/SweetEndReviews
August 31, 2020
I think I'm coming to fall in love with Stoker & Holmes.
This book was not as exciting as the first and sadly, it was more predictable as well. But I simply cannot deny that I had so much fun reading it.
I love it. I love the mish-mash of genres and characters. I love the fact that it isn't entirely accurate to the time or history or the lore. I love that Mina and Evaline are not immediately the best of friends, but grudgingly learn to respect each other. I love the hint of romance that is burgeoning with our two heroines though they remain independent, strong women. I love the underlying mystery of it all.
And I'm out.
This book was not as exciting as the first and sadly, it was more predictable as well. But I simply cannot deny that I had so much fun reading it.
I love it. I love the mish-mash of genres and characters. I love the fact that it isn't entirely accurate to the time or history or the lore. I love that Mina and Evaline are not immediately the best of friends, but grudgingly learn to respect each other. I love the hint of romance that is burgeoning with our two heroines though they remain independent, strong women. I love the underlying mystery of it all.
And I'm out.
October 24, 2019
2.5 stars. I just always think, because of this gorgeous cover, that I will love these books, but something about them fails to catch my imagination.
November 22, 2014
With awesome clockwork, a multi-level steampunk London I wish I could inhabit, and two tenacious but mismatched female main characters, The Spriritglass Charade has twice its share of fun. Gawky analytical Mina Holmes, niece of Sherlock, and impulsive vampire-hunting Evaline Stocker, half sister to Bram, have an uneasy crime-solving partnership. It’s observation, deduction, and carefully laid plans vs. strength, speed, and plunging right on in at the hint of danger.
Irene Adler, known to Mina’s Uncle Sherlock as The Woman, brought the two together at the behest of Princess Alexandra, wife of Queen Victoria’s son Bertie. In this second adventure the young women are investigating a case that involves wily spiritual mediums, a distraught young heiress obsessed with seances, a missing younger brother, nefarious street ruffians, the possible reemergence of vampires, and of course murder. Both Mina and Evaline are eager to prove their villain capturing prowess, Mina because as a female she hasn’t been given many opportunities to employ the skills she’s honed, and Evaline because though it’s unfortunately quite difficult to find vampires these days she wants to show herself worthy of her vampire vanquishing ancestors.
Their version of Victorian era London is layered with multi-leveled walkways connected by coin-driven mechanical lifts--which keeps the poor on the dirty, darkest lower areas--and skyscrapers so tall they they’re topped with large balloons to serve as air anchors. I really want to visit the just reopened Vauxhall Gardens, where Mina and Eveline spend an evening chasing after clues. The revamped attraction is full of lovely mechanical wonders like motorized birds and butterflies that dart and flutter about, and gear-ridden fireflies that brighten the sky with colorful little lights.
Notable characters back from the first book include an over-sized Scotland Yard Detective who reluctantly trades investigative insights with Mina and then blasts around London on a gravity-defying steamcycle, an underworld far too appealing Cockney tough guy who banters and bickers with Evaline, and a cute cell phone toting young man from our own era who’s been unwittingly time-traveled back to this alternate London and is full of modern ideas that intrigue and inspire Mina.
Chapters alternate entertainingly between the contrasting voices of Mina and Evaline, and the action races along as the young women traipse through drawing rooms and lurk in back alley dives. The mystery is tied up nicely but several personal issues are left dangling and the book ends in a WOW of a revelation that ensures there will be at least one more joint Holmes-Stocker venture. Hurrah!
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher through LibraryThing. Review opinions are mine.
Irene Adler, known to Mina’s Uncle Sherlock as The Woman, brought the two together at the behest of Princess Alexandra, wife of Queen Victoria’s son Bertie. In this second adventure the young women are investigating a case that involves wily spiritual mediums, a distraught young heiress obsessed with seances, a missing younger brother, nefarious street ruffians, the possible reemergence of vampires, and of course murder. Both Mina and Evaline are eager to prove their villain capturing prowess, Mina because as a female she hasn’t been given many opportunities to employ the skills she’s honed, and Evaline because though it’s unfortunately quite difficult to find vampires these days she wants to show herself worthy of her vampire vanquishing ancestors.
Their version of Victorian era London is layered with multi-leveled walkways connected by coin-driven mechanical lifts--which keeps the poor on the dirty, darkest lower areas--and skyscrapers so tall they they’re topped with large balloons to serve as air anchors. I really want to visit the just reopened Vauxhall Gardens, where Mina and Eveline spend an evening chasing after clues. The revamped attraction is full of lovely mechanical wonders like motorized birds and butterflies that dart and flutter about, and gear-ridden fireflies that brighten the sky with colorful little lights.
Notable characters back from the first book include an over-sized Scotland Yard Detective who reluctantly trades investigative insights with Mina and then blasts around London on a gravity-defying steamcycle, an underworld far too appealing Cockney tough guy who banters and bickers with Evaline, and a cute cell phone toting young man from our own era who’s been unwittingly time-traveled back to this alternate London and is full of modern ideas that intrigue and inspire Mina.
Chapters alternate entertainingly between the contrasting voices of Mina and Evaline, and the action races along as the young women traipse through drawing rooms and lurk in back alley dives. The mystery is tied up nicely but several personal issues are left dangling and the book ends in a WOW of a revelation that ensures there will be at least one more joint Holmes-Stocker venture. Hurrah!
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher through LibraryThing. Review opinions are mine.
March 2, 2024
I might have anxiously checked my current order for the third, fourth and fifth book in this series. I'm not entirely sure if I can wait another week to start the next installment, but it seems that I have to. However, I was really looking forward to start this second installment yesterday. The first book in this series was exactly what I had wanted it to be and what I had hoped it would be and I didn't doubt I was gonna enjoy this sequel immensely.
The supernatural elements are much more present in this novel and I really loved it! In the previous book we were already introduced to the key players and the world and now we finally got to meet the vampires Miss Stoker was constantly talking about. At first, just like Miss Holmes, I was wondering what they had to do with the case, but of course the author had thought things through and the finale brought everything together in a very satisfying way.
I also like that in a way this story has its own case. A case that starts in this book and ends in this book. Just like in the previous book. However, there are also secrets and smaller storylines that continued from the first book in this one and will continue in the next installments. I especially like Dylan's influence on this world, his knowledge of the future really saving lives, and I'm really curious what Pix is up to!
I also like how the book is not just about solving the case. It's also about Miss Holmes and Miss Stoker growing, learning and challenging each other and themselves. In this book we see Miss Holmes putting up a more active fight, instead of just offering her brains. While we also see how Miss Stokes is figuring things out herself and learns that acting before thinking doesn't always work. I can't wait to see them grow more in future books!
The supernatural elements are much more present in this novel and I really loved it! In the previous book we were already introduced to the key players and the world and now we finally got to meet the vampires Miss Stoker was constantly talking about. At first, just like Miss Holmes, I was wondering what they had to do with the case, but of course the author had thought things through and the finale brought everything together in a very satisfying way.
I also like that in a way this story has its own case. A case that starts in this book and ends in this book. Just like in the previous book. However, there are also secrets and smaller storylines that continued from the first book in this one and will continue in the next installments. I especially like Dylan's influence on this world, his knowledge of the future really saving lives, and I'm really curious what Pix is up to!
I also like how the book is not just about solving the case. It's also about Miss Holmes and Miss Stoker growing, learning and challenging each other and themselves. In this book we see Miss Holmes putting up a more active fight, instead of just offering her brains. While we also see how Miss Stokes is figuring things out herself and learns that acting before thinking doesn't always work. I can't wait to see them grow more in future books!
October 5, 2014
**I received this book for free from Chronicle Books/Edelweiss in exchange for an honest review. Thank you!! This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.**
*Genre* Steampunk, Historical, Paranormal, Young Adult
*Rating* 3.5-4
*MY Thoughts*
Set in 1889 London, The Spiritglass Charade (Stoker & Holmes #2) brings back our dynamic duo of Evaline Stoker (sister to Bram Stoker) and Mina Holmes (niece of Sherlock Holmes). This time out, Princess Alexander asks the girls to help despondent teenager Willa Aston find out what really happened to her brother Robby who disappeared and is presumed to be dead. Willa is so obsessed with finding answers, that she uses mediums and spiritualists to help her search. Something that goes against Mina's analytical mindset. If that wasn't enough, vampires return to London after decades of being gone bringing a secret society along with them.
**Full Review Posted @ Gizmos Reviews* Link to Follow*
*Recvd 05/22/2014 via Edelweiss* Expected publication: October 7th 2014 by Chronicle Books
*Genre* Steampunk, Historical, Paranormal, Young Adult
*Rating* 3.5-4
*MY Thoughts*
Set in 1889 London, The Spiritglass Charade (Stoker & Holmes #2) brings back our dynamic duo of Evaline Stoker (sister to Bram Stoker) and Mina Holmes (niece of Sherlock Holmes). This time out, Princess Alexander asks the girls to help despondent teenager Willa Aston find out what really happened to her brother Robby who disappeared and is presumed to be dead. Willa is so obsessed with finding answers, that she uses mediums and spiritualists to help her search. Something that goes against Mina's analytical mindset. If that wasn't enough, vampires return to London after decades of being gone bringing a secret society along with them.
**Full Review Posted @ Gizmos Reviews* Link to Follow*
*Recvd 05/22/2014 via Edelweiss* Expected publication: October 7th 2014 by Chronicle Books
November 15, 2015
ADORE this series -- I usually don't care for multiple POVs but I can dig it with Mina & Evaline. The steampunk elements I truly enjoy and all the literary references (varying from classics to mythology to the contemporary). I love the polar opposite personalities of the MCs -- I FELL IN LOVE with Colleen Gleason when I first read "A Clockwork Scarab" and consequently flew thru this book super fast. (Now onto #3!) I think what stopped me from giving this five stars was this:
Too many "suspect characters" in the pool. I got confused at certain points trying to remember which secondary character was which.
That's my ONLY complaint.
((Grayling vs. Dylan ---> eghh. Pick the Scot already, Mina.))
((LOVE me some Pix and Evaline, though -- dreeeeeamy!))
Too many "suspect characters" in the pool. I got confused at certain points trying to remember which secondary character was which.
That's my ONLY complaint.
((Grayling vs. Dylan ---> eghh. Pick the Scot already, Mina.))
((LOVE me some Pix and Evaline, though -- dreeeeeamy!))
Read
December 3, 2015Graded By: Mandy C.
Cover Story: Look Into My Crystal Ball
BFF Charm: Heck Yes x 2
Swoonworthy Scale: 5
Talky Talk: Victoriana
Bonus Factors: Séances, Inventive Bars
Relationship Status: The Watson to Your Holmes (and Stoker)
Read the full book report here.
Cover Story: Look Into My Crystal Ball
BFF Charm: Heck Yes x 2
Swoonworthy Scale: 5
Talky Talk: Victoriana
Bonus Factors: Séances, Inventive Bars
Relationship Status: The Watson to Your Holmes (and Stoker)
Read the full book report here.
January 31, 2016
“Coincidence? Uncle Sherlock claimed that was impossible, but for once I wasn’t certain."
Second book in the Stoker & Holmes series, an urban fantasy time travel vampire mystery steampunk series. Yeah, that’s really how I would describe. But hey, it’s fun. Messy, but certainly fun.
A month after their first adventure together and the encounter with the mysterious Ankh, Mina Holmes and Evaline Stoker are once again summoned by Irene Adler, to assist in the case of young Willa Ashton, an associate of Princess Alexandra. After the death of her mother and disappearance of her younger brother, Willa seeks help from a medium to contract her mother’s spirits and believes that her brother is still alive and needs her help. The Princess and Willa’s family are worried for her well-being and so it is on Mina and Evaline to find out if the spirits are real or if poor Willa is the victim of a terrible fraud. While logical Mina immediately believes that someone is messing with Willa’s mind, Evaline considers supernatural beings are involved. Her suspicion thickens when after years of absence vampires return to London and someone ends up murdered.
Like the first book, this one is a light-hearted fun, a quick read and just overall entertaining. Don’t expect a literary masterpiece or anything, it is pretty much just fun and nothing with a lot of depth. But sometimes that is all one needs.
The writing is fine enough and the changing perspectives between Mina and Evaline work well. Their voices are distinctive enough and you easily know in which mind you are.
The main mystery of the book is entertaining enough, even if it is easier to figure out than the first one.
In general I think that the first book was a tad stronger. To say the story is messy is probably way too nice. There are so many elements thrown into this book that it is actually impressive it isn’t even more of a mess.
Gleason really took everything that sounds ‘cool’, threw it into a mixer and somehow turned it into a decent book smoothie.
That being said, this book is not without its issues. Funnily enough I almost had the same issues I had with the first one. Not sure if that is a good thing or not, I guess at least I don’t have a bunch of new ones.
Let’s talk characters first. While reading the first book I preferred Mina’s point of view. What can I say? I’m more of a Holmes fan than of vampires. It kind of changed during this book. Not the Holmes/Vampire thing that still holds up, but my view or rather tolerance for the characters. Both Evaline and Mina have their good and bad moments, but Evaline was clearly the more enjoyable point of view this time around.
Ironically I still believe Mina had mostly the more interesting story parts, but oh my God was she whiney. If there is one thing that puts me off a character it’s constant whining about something. Mina took the crown in this novel. She is supposed to be logical one, the Holmes archetype and she constantly sees herself as such, expect for when she is not. For someone who claims not to care about what other people think or society expects, she cares an awful lot about her appearance. There is not one chapter from Mina’s point of view where she doesn’t whine about her looks or her lack of social skills. Honey, make up your mind about what you want. Do you want to be like your Uncle Sherlock? Fine, then stop stressing about what other people think and just be yourself. You decide you don’t want to be such a Holmes after all? Also fine, than do something about your situation and find out who you truly are. Just stop with the complaining. Evaline has her annoying moments as well, but at least she knows who she is and actually has some development throughout the novel.
Except for Evaline and Mina, the other characters don’t have that much to do. Encounters with Holmes and Watson are fun, Dylan actually gets a few nice moments and Pix well, he is frustrating. I get that this is a series and if Goodreads is to be believed it will at least have five books, so I understand not every mystery can be solved yet, but whatever Pix’ deal is there needs to be some clarification. It is not a fun mystery anymore to figure him out, it is seriously frustrating because he can’t answer one question straightly. The strong cockney accent is also incredible exhausting to read.
Speaking of mystery, I missed some connection to the previous book. The mystery is clearly not as solved as people think and though Mina had her suspicions that the Ankh might be still involved, it is just briefly mentioned and then dropped.
The return of the vampires allows for some fun action sequences, but I’m still a little bit iffy about it. While premise of the first book already guaranteed that vampires would be an important plot point sooner or later I’m not exactly sure if I like that. I did give Evaline some interesting character development, but so far I’m just don’t care that much.
But really let’s talk about the Marty McFly in the room, because I think that is something that needs to be discussed.
Ahh time travel, you sweet trope that barely ever works out. Sometimes I believe people are not aware how complicated it is to use time travel in a story, there is just too much you have to think about to avoid plot holes or big question marks over your reader’s heads.
The time travel in this story is basically treated as a c-subplot so far and I guess will be an arc that will slowly develop throughout the whole series. I get that and it’s fine. If you plan to write at least five books, you need at least some plot points to connect your story. The problem here however is that the time travel doesn’t feel like an overarching storyline but rather like something thrown into the mix just because. I at least get the impression that there is no actual plan for Dylan as a character and that his arc, as well as the rules of time travel in this universe are just made up along the way.
While making stuff up as you go sometimes can work, time travel is really way too complicated to jump into it without a clear structure or set of rules.
Dylan does bring up the Back To The Future concept of time travelling and tries to explain his unexpected journey with the string theory, but it is all very half-baked.
There is the question if Dylan will mess up the future in case he changes the past, but in the end he does it anyways. He first saves Queen Victoria’s life (in such an over the top, ridiculous scene, it’s awesome) and then basically goes on and invents blood transfusions. Yeah, no biggie I bet that has no consequences at all.
As Hiro Nakamura would say: "We must try not to step on butterflies."
Inventing stuff before it should be invented and walking around Victorian London with a smartphone, that guy doesn’t step on butterflies, he steps on Mothra.
There’s of course also the thought that Dylan was always supposed to come to the past and save the Queen and that it’s all a cycle with fixed points. See? That’s why you need to think this through, to avoid confusion like that.
Adding to the general wibbly wobbly timey wimey stuff Dylan also hints that he might even be in an alternate Victorian London, because Mina’s and Evaline’s London, with vampire and you know, a real Sherlock Holmes is not exactly what Dylan learned from his history books.
Time travel to an alternate universe as a c-subplot…why not? If you hear a groan right now, I just needed to let that out.
I genuinely hope that the next book will dive deeper into the time travel story and at least establishes some kind of rules or explanations.
Before wrapping this up a brief look at the relationships.
Mina and Evaline are two very different young women and more or less reluctant partners. They do respect each other, but at the same time I wouldn’t exactly call them friends. They work together better than the last time, but still clash over almost every decision. While that makes for a lot of fun most of the time, I did wish for some more bonding. Unfortunately not many books, especially the YA kind, present strong, healthy female friendships and here the opportunity is a given. Mina and Evaline seem almost cold and robotic around each other except for the occasional snark and while I don’t expect them to become best friends out of the blue, I think they need some genuine moments that have nothing to do with the current mystery they are working on. Hopefully the final twist, which was very well executed and surprising, will not only be a sequel hook but also the much needed shift in the girl’s relationship.
On the romance front there is thankfully not much to say. Romance takes a backseat in these books and it is a welcome change to other books of similar genres. Evaline and Pix have their little something going on and while I don’t care all that much, it doesn’t bother me either. I could even get behind it if Pix would finally stop being over the top secretive.
Mina is caught in somewhat of a love triangle or more of an impending love triangle. At least I can see it happening. She has a crush on Dylan, one he obviously reciprocates and most of their moments are actually cute and a sweet mix between awkward and exciting. Then there is this weird, kind of even sexual tension Mina shares with Inspector Grayling. I’m not quite sure what to think about that. There is definitely something happening, but like some other plot points I’m not really sure if there is a plan yet or if their relationship will just spontaneously develop. All I know is that I really don’t want yet another love triangle.
The ending was nice, even if not as action packed as the first one. The twist was well done and the overall storyline and characters at least keep my interest.
Conclusion: Light-hearted, enjoyable fun with some flaws but overall an entertaining ride.
Recommendation: People who enjoyed the first book will most likely enjoy this one as well.
Second book in the Stoker & Holmes series, an urban fantasy time travel vampire mystery steampunk series. Yeah, that’s really how I would describe. But hey, it’s fun. Messy, but certainly fun.
A month after their first adventure together and the encounter with the mysterious Ankh, Mina Holmes and Evaline Stoker are once again summoned by Irene Adler, to assist in the case of young Willa Ashton, an associate of Princess Alexandra. After the death of her mother and disappearance of her younger brother, Willa seeks help from a medium to contract her mother’s spirits and believes that her brother is still alive and needs her help. The Princess and Willa’s family are worried for her well-being and so it is on Mina and Evaline to find out if the spirits are real or if poor Willa is the victim of a terrible fraud. While logical Mina immediately believes that someone is messing with Willa’s mind, Evaline considers supernatural beings are involved. Her suspicion thickens when after years of absence vampires return to London and someone ends up murdered.
Like the first book, this one is a light-hearted fun, a quick read and just overall entertaining. Don’t expect a literary masterpiece or anything, it is pretty much just fun and nothing with a lot of depth. But sometimes that is all one needs.
The writing is fine enough and the changing perspectives between Mina and Evaline work well. Their voices are distinctive enough and you easily know in which mind you are.
The main mystery of the book is entertaining enough, even if it is easier to figure out than the first one.
In general I think that the first book was a tad stronger. To say the story is messy is probably way too nice. There are so many elements thrown into this book that it is actually impressive it isn’t even more of a mess.
Gleason really took everything that sounds ‘cool’, threw it into a mixer and somehow turned it into a decent book smoothie.
That being said, this book is not without its issues. Funnily enough I almost had the same issues I had with the first one. Not sure if that is a good thing or not, I guess at least I don’t have a bunch of new ones.
Let’s talk characters first. While reading the first book I preferred Mina’s point of view. What can I say? I’m more of a Holmes fan than of vampires. It kind of changed during this book. Not the Holmes/Vampire thing that still holds up, but my view or rather tolerance for the characters. Both Evaline and Mina have their good and bad moments, but Evaline was clearly the more enjoyable point of view this time around.
Ironically I still believe Mina had mostly the more interesting story parts, but oh my God was she whiney. If there is one thing that puts me off a character it’s constant whining about something. Mina took the crown in this novel. She is supposed to be logical one, the Holmes archetype and she constantly sees herself as such, expect for when she is not. For someone who claims not to care about what other people think or society expects, she cares an awful lot about her appearance. There is not one chapter from Mina’s point of view where she doesn’t whine about her looks or her lack of social skills. Honey, make up your mind about what you want. Do you want to be like your Uncle Sherlock? Fine, then stop stressing about what other people think and just be yourself. You decide you don’t want to be such a Holmes after all? Also fine, than do something about your situation and find out who you truly are. Just stop with the complaining. Evaline has her annoying moments as well, but at least she knows who she is and actually has some development throughout the novel.
Except for Evaline and Mina, the other characters don’t have that much to do. Encounters with Holmes and Watson are fun, Dylan actually gets a few nice moments and Pix well, he is frustrating. I get that this is a series and if Goodreads is to be believed it will at least have five books, so I understand not every mystery can be solved yet, but whatever Pix’ deal is there needs to be some clarification. It is not a fun mystery anymore to figure him out, it is seriously frustrating because he can’t answer one question straightly. The strong cockney accent is also incredible exhausting to read.
Speaking of mystery, I missed some connection to the previous book. The mystery is clearly not as solved as people think and though Mina had her suspicions that the Ankh might be still involved, it is just briefly mentioned and then dropped.
The return of the vampires allows for some fun action sequences, but I’m still a little bit iffy about it. While premise of the first book already guaranteed that vampires would be an important plot point sooner or later I’m not exactly sure if I like that. I did give Evaline some interesting character development, but so far I’m just don’t care that much.
But really let’s talk about the Marty McFly in the room, because I think that is something that needs to be discussed.
Ahh time travel, you sweet trope that barely ever works out. Sometimes I believe people are not aware how complicated it is to use time travel in a story, there is just too much you have to think about to avoid plot holes or big question marks over your reader’s heads.
The time travel in this story is basically treated as a c-subplot so far and I guess will be an arc that will slowly develop throughout the whole series. I get that and it’s fine. If you plan to write at least five books, you need at least some plot points to connect your story. The problem here however is that the time travel doesn’t feel like an overarching storyline but rather like something thrown into the mix just because. I at least get the impression that there is no actual plan for Dylan as a character and that his arc, as well as the rules of time travel in this universe are just made up along the way.
While making stuff up as you go sometimes can work, time travel is really way too complicated to jump into it without a clear structure or set of rules.
Dylan does bring up the Back To The Future concept of time travelling and tries to explain his unexpected journey with the string theory, but it is all very half-baked.
There is the question if Dylan will mess up the future in case he changes the past, but in the end he does it anyways. He first saves Queen Victoria’s life (in such an over the top, ridiculous scene, it’s awesome) and then basically goes on and invents blood transfusions. Yeah, no biggie I bet that has no consequences at all.
As Hiro Nakamura would say: "We must try not to step on butterflies."
Inventing stuff before it should be invented and walking around Victorian London with a smartphone, that guy doesn’t step on butterflies, he steps on Mothra.
There’s of course also the thought that Dylan was always supposed to come to the past and save the Queen and that it’s all a cycle with fixed points. See? That’s why you need to think this through, to avoid confusion like that.
Adding to the general wibbly wobbly timey wimey stuff Dylan also hints that he might even be in an alternate Victorian London, because Mina’s and Evaline’s London, with vampire and you know, a real Sherlock Holmes is not exactly what Dylan learned from his history books.
Time travel to an alternate universe as a c-subplot…why not? If you hear a groan right now, I just needed to let that out.
I genuinely hope that the next book will dive deeper into the time travel story and at least establishes some kind of rules or explanations.
Before wrapping this up a brief look at the relationships.
Mina and Evaline are two very different young women and more or less reluctant partners. They do respect each other, but at the same time I wouldn’t exactly call them friends. They work together better than the last time, but still clash over almost every decision. While that makes for a lot of fun most of the time, I did wish for some more bonding. Unfortunately not many books, especially the YA kind, present strong, healthy female friendships and here the opportunity is a given. Mina and Evaline seem almost cold and robotic around each other except for the occasional snark and while I don’t expect them to become best friends out of the blue, I think they need some genuine moments that have nothing to do with the current mystery they are working on. Hopefully the final twist, which was very well executed and surprising, will not only be a sequel hook but also the much needed shift in the girl’s relationship.
On the romance front there is thankfully not much to say. Romance takes a backseat in these books and it is a welcome change to other books of similar genres. Evaline and Pix have their little something going on and while I don’t care all that much, it doesn’t bother me either. I could even get behind it if Pix would finally stop being over the top secretive.
Mina is caught in somewhat of a love triangle or more of an impending love triangle. At least I can see it happening. She has a crush on Dylan, one he obviously reciprocates and most of their moments are actually cute and a sweet mix between awkward and exciting. Then there is this weird, kind of even sexual tension Mina shares with Inspector Grayling. I’m not quite sure what to think about that. There is definitely something happening, but like some other plot points I’m not really sure if there is a plan yet or if their relationship will just spontaneously develop. All I know is that I really don’t want yet another love triangle.
The ending was nice, even if not as action packed as the first one. The twist was well done and the overall storyline and characters at least keep my interest.
Conclusion: Light-hearted, enjoyable fun with some flaws but overall an entertaining ride.
Recommendation: People who enjoyed the first book will most likely enjoy this one as well.
May 29, 2017
This series follows the adventures of two young and intelligent women in the parallel world of steam bunk Victorian England. The two main characters are the bright and intuitive Mina Holmes (the niece of Sherlock Holmes and daughter of Mycroft), and Evaline Stoker (the younger sister of Bram Stoker, an acclaimed vampire hunter) who is fiesty and brave. In the second book of the series, we continue to follow the two girls as they discover who is trying to trick a royal family member and whether vampires have made their way back to London.
I found this second instalment of the 'Stoker & Holmes' novels to be enthralling and exciting, as well as creating a fun dynamic between the reader and the story in which you are able to piece together the mystery. The revelation of the culprit was as shocking as any of Doyle's tales and is a wonderous new world in which you can explore as well as learn something new about with every turn of a page. This was a thoroughly enjyable and engaging read and I will be looking forward to reading the rest of the books in the series.
I found this second instalment of the 'Stoker & Holmes' novels to be enthralling and exciting, as well as creating a fun dynamic between the reader and the story in which you are able to piece together the mystery. The revelation of the culprit was as shocking as any of Doyle's tales and is a wonderous new world in which you can explore as well as learn something new about with every turn of a page. This was a thoroughly enjyable and engaging read and I will be looking forward to reading the rest of the books in the series.
September 29, 2020
I quite enjoyed this second entry in the series. Mina Holmes (Sherlock's niece) and Evaline Stoker (Bram Stoker's much younger sister) are given their second assignment for the Princess by Irene Adler. They are to investigate a young woman who is increasingly interested in the occult to attempt to find her missing younger brother.
We again are introduced to the mysterious Pix (just what is his background?) as well as the time-traveling Dylan, and the intriguing young inspector from Scotland Yard.
Mina and Evaline get along a bit better in this book, but still pretty much work independently. I'm intrigued to see where things go with them, and am especially anxious to see what the happens with the huge revelation at the very end of the book. This is a B for me, so four stars here.
We again are introduced to the mysterious Pix (just what is his background?) as well as the time-traveling Dylan, and the intriguing young inspector from Scotland Yard.
Mina and Evaline get along a bit better in this book, but still pretty much work independently. I'm intrigued to see where things go with them, and am especially anxious to see what the happens with the huge revelation at the very end of the book. This is a B for me, so four stars here.
February 10, 2017
This is the second book following Evaline Stoker, the vampire hunter and Mina Holmes niece of Sherlock Holmes. This time the girls are asked to help investigate Willa Ashton’s obsession with a spiritual medium. Willa had just lost her mother and her brother suddenly goes missing. He is one of many boys going missing.
I want to love this series. It is a Victorian steampunk mystery with the descendants of Sherlock Holmes and Bram Stroker.
But there is something so aggravating about Evaline’s POV. As the vampire hunter I wanted her to be fierce, but we didn’t see that side of her until the last 50 pages. All throughout the book, I felt that she was a little girl playing pretend. I hated how she had this internal rivalry with Mina.
I did like Mina’s POV more than Evaline’s. That being sad I still had issues with Mina’s story. Mina is so smart and lives up to the Holme’s family name but that all goes out the window when she is around either one of her love interest.
I wish this book focused more on the mysteries rather than the love stories and petty squabbles. I don’t think I am going to continue on with this series.
I give this book a C-. I didn’t love the book nor did I hate, I was just meh.
I want to love this series. It is a Victorian steampunk mystery with the descendants of Sherlock Holmes and Bram Stroker.
But there is something so aggravating about Evaline’s POV. As the vampire hunter I wanted her to be fierce, but we didn’t see that side of her until the last 50 pages. All throughout the book, I felt that she was a little girl playing pretend. I hated how she had this internal rivalry with Mina.
I did like Mina’s POV more than Evaline’s. That being sad I still had issues with Mina’s story. Mina is so smart and lives up to the Holme’s family name but that all goes out the window when she is around either one of her love interest.
I wish this book focused more on the mysteries rather than the love stories and petty squabbles. I don’t think I am going to continue on with this series.
I give this book a C-. I didn’t love the book nor did I hate, I was just meh.
November 29, 2018
I liked the plot and character development much more in this book than the first in the series. I hate that the ending leaves me hanging with no more mention of Olympia Baggage and her role in all of this. Also, how Miss Adler acted at the end was not characteristic of how the only match for Mr. Holmes' wit would ever act. so the development of her character over time was very disappointing. So I would have given it a 4 if it wasn't for the ending.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 2, 2017
I enjoyed this second book in the series and got more character development so that I enjoyed all the characters more than in the first book. I will be looking for the next book for sure.
Want to read
June 18, 2018This book is wonderfull,terrific and well written.
September 17, 2018
Fantasy, steampunk, Historical, mystery, a time travel element yet unexplored, a touch of romance. What an entertaining hodgepodge.
Alternate London, 1889
Alternate London, 1889
November 5, 2019
review coming soon
January 15, 2023
Why did this have to end in a fascinating way. 🙌🙌
August 12, 2019
I thoroughly enjoyed this book...I have both the Kindle and Audible versions so I was able to sync them. The Narrator is excellent and absolutely added to the well written story. I love reading anything that is Holmesian, Steampunk or has vampires—this mashup of all three with STRONG women protagonists is wonderful. I almost forgot time travel—who can forget time travel??
This is a very well written book that reveals the cynicism of spiritualism and seances of Victorian England all the while it raging through the parlors of London. When you put Holmes, Watson, their niece, elementary mysteries where the game is afoot ....life is good! This book ties up most threads than reveals a new one at the end...more a good tease than a cliffhanger. I can’t wait to read the next book in series (and look up this Narrator)
I highly recommend this book.
This is a very well written book that reveals the cynicism of spiritualism and seances of Victorian England all the while it raging through the parlors of London. When you put Holmes, Watson, their niece, elementary mysteries where the game is afoot ....life is good! This book ties up most threads than reveals a new one at the end...more a good tease than a cliffhanger. I can’t wait to read the next book in series (and look up this Narrator)
I highly recommend this book.
November 9, 2014
You can read this and many other reviews on my YA book blog The White Unicorn!
An Open Letter To The Spiritglass Charade,
Every single time you're story wraps me up in it's pretty words and mesmerizes me. I have to admit that I enjoyed myself completely while I was shoving my face into your pages. It's books like you and your predecessor that prove that a well written mystery is always something to make time for. The setting and characters that you house have become some of my favorites and they are only becoming more so. By George, you've done it again!
-The White Unicorn
I was excited to dive into the second installment of the Stoker & Holmes books and let's just say that I wasn't disappointed with the outcome. Gleason has brought back our favorite characters in bigger and better ways this time around and I have to say that I enjoyed every single minute of this steampunk mystery.
I have to comment on the fact that it's been awhile since I read the first book, but I feel like Gleason did a lot of character building this time around. The set up story is done and now she gets the chance to throw our girls into even more messy messes since we already know who they are. Gleason also shows us more of the girls personalities and even though I enjoyed them the first time around, I have to say that I adored them to pieces this time. Mina and Evaline are both snarky and witty on a whole new level and it really worked for me. They act like the girls that they've been raised to be, but they also have these secret kickass sides that we get to see.
I love the fact that Mina and Evaline aren't best pals. It adds this consistent tension to the story. They work so well together and they respect each other, but they don't depend on each other. It's a very different feel then we normally get in YA lit and I commend Gleason for creating such a dynamic relationship between our leading ladies. She gives them their own identities and it makes reading her books fascinating. Where a lot of books would have the girls depending on each other or the males in their lives, Mina and Evaline are fully capable of kicking ass and taking names by themselves... in most cases. But that's what having a partner and a slew of talented friends is for, those moments where you can't do it on your own.
Of course the boys are back as well. Dylan is still trying to get back to 2016 and trying not to fall for Mina. Grayling is still running around trying to outwit the girls and "keep them safe". Pix is still keeping to the shadows and making Evaline swoon. Gleason is taking her time developing them and there is still a lot of mystery surrounding all of them, which works well with her feminist plot line. Plus, as a reader it keeps me interested in all three of them.
The actual plot line of The Spiritglass Charade is one that I could go on and on about, but that would lead to spoilers, and God knows you'd hate me if I gave you those. I will say that Gleason is a Queen when it comes to weaving a story. So much more happens in the book then Willa's supposed insanity. Gleason has a way of hiding the real mysteries out in the open and keeping you busy with the little details. In this way, it's always a surprising pay off to me, as a reader in the end.
I'm excited to know that there will be more Stoker & Holmes books. At least, I think there will be? I mean, with an ending like that, you know that Gleason has a lot more planned for her extensive and exciting cast of characters in the future. I for one can't wait for the next mystery to be released out in the wild!
An Open Letter To The Spiritglass Charade,
Every single time you're story wraps me up in it's pretty words and mesmerizes me. I have to admit that I enjoyed myself completely while I was shoving my face into your pages. It's books like you and your predecessor that prove that a well written mystery is always something to make time for. The setting and characters that you house have become some of my favorites and they are only becoming more so. By George, you've done it again!
-The White Unicorn
I was excited to dive into the second installment of the Stoker & Holmes books and let's just say that I wasn't disappointed with the outcome. Gleason has brought back our favorite characters in bigger and better ways this time around and I have to say that I enjoyed every single minute of this steampunk mystery.
I have to comment on the fact that it's been awhile since I read the first book, but I feel like Gleason did a lot of character building this time around. The set up story is done and now she gets the chance to throw our girls into even more messy messes since we already know who they are. Gleason also shows us more of the girls personalities and even though I enjoyed them the first time around, I have to say that I adored them to pieces this time. Mina and Evaline are both snarky and witty on a whole new level and it really worked for me. They act like the girls that they've been raised to be, but they also have these secret kickass sides that we get to see.
I love the fact that Mina and Evaline aren't best pals. It adds this consistent tension to the story. They work so well together and they respect each other, but they don't depend on each other. It's a very different feel then we normally get in YA lit and I commend Gleason for creating such a dynamic relationship between our leading ladies. She gives them their own identities and it makes reading her books fascinating. Where a lot of books would have the girls depending on each other or the males in their lives, Mina and Evaline are fully capable of kicking ass and taking names by themselves... in most cases. But that's what having a partner and a slew of talented friends is for, those moments where you can't do it on your own.
Of course the boys are back as well. Dylan is still trying to get back to 2016 and trying not to fall for Mina. Grayling is still running around trying to outwit the girls and "keep them safe". Pix is still keeping to the shadows and making Evaline swoon. Gleason is taking her time developing them and there is still a lot of mystery surrounding all of them, which works well with her feminist plot line. Plus, as a reader it keeps me interested in all three of them.
The actual plot line of The Spiritglass Charade is one that I could go on and on about, but that would lead to spoilers, and God knows you'd hate me if I gave you those. I will say that Gleason is a Queen when it comes to weaving a story. So much more happens in the book then Willa's supposed insanity. Gleason has a way of hiding the real mysteries out in the open and keeping you busy with the little details. In this way, it's always a surprising pay off to me, as a reader in the end.
I'm excited to know that there will be more Stoker & Holmes books. At least, I think there will be? I mean, with an ending like that, you know that Gleason has a lot more planned for her extensive and exciting cast of characters in the future. I for one can't wait for the next mystery to be released out in the wild!
August 2, 2015
The Spiritglass Charade is stunning. Everything I look for in a wonderful book and more.
Once again the crown has need of someone who can easily go unnoticed so Miss Holmes and Miss Stoker are called upon by the Princess Bertie to help her dear friend Willa avoid being locked away for hallucinations of her dead mother and missing brother.
In typical Holmes fashion Miss Holmes is determined to use science to debunk the mystery of Willa receiving messages from her deceased mother and missing brother. Once again Mina can get blindsided by science always have an answer and totally caught up in wanting to prove how everything occurs. While some people may see this is annoying I like it. It suits Mina and her desire to prove to her father and uncle (Sherlock Holmes) that a female can be just as good with deductions as a male. Mina still lacks social grace for the most part and while it gets her into trouble at times I find it makes her all the more endearing.
Miss Stoker continues to be rash and desires to use her vampire hunting skills to keep Willa safe while taking out the UnDead if she is able to. Evaline burns with the desire to kill her first vampire and prove to herself she belongs with vampire hunters. Having more money then Mina Evaline is a bit better at social affairs since she is forced to attend them however strolling along a dark street hunting the UnDead is more her style. The Spiritglass Charade seemed a bit unbalanced between the perspectives and it felt like Evaline got less told from her point of view.
Inspector Greyling made a few appearances and I defiantly want to see more of him. The way Grayling interacts with Miss Holmes always has me laughing. Despite being in two books I still feel like I barely know Grayling and I hope that changes.
Pix once again was awesome. The way Pix spoke to Evaline and interacted with her had me wanting more. At first glace a common pickpocket is all Pix appears to be however with the things he knows and the way he gets respect in the underground Pix is clearly a force to be reckoned with. The Spiritglass Charade set things up to indicate Pix is part of something big so I hope it is revealed in The Chess Queen Enigma.
Dylan was barely in the story despite playing a large roll. Normally stories that have time travelers are not my things but Dylan works with the story well. While Dylan does want to get home he also seems to want to establish somewhat of a life in London. I find this makes Dylan a more believable character. I hope more is revealed about Dylan in future books.
The writing was stunning and painted a vivid picture of London done in a steampunk style. I loved it, the perfect amount of detail to keep the story moving. The interactions among all the characters was well done and believable.
Since Stoker and Holmes is my first venture into the steampunk genre I cannot really compare it to anything else but I do want to try something else that is considered steampunk. I eagerly await the release of The Chess Queen Engima.
Once again the crown has need of someone who can easily go unnoticed so Miss Holmes and Miss Stoker are called upon by the Princess Bertie to help her dear friend Willa avoid being locked away for hallucinations of her dead mother and missing brother.
In typical Holmes fashion Miss Holmes is determined to use science to debunk the mystery of Willa receiving messages from her deceased mother and missing brother. Once again Mina can get blindsided by science always have an answer and totally caught up in wanting to prove how everything occurs. While some people may see this is annoying I like it. It suits Mina and her desire to prove to her father and uncle (Sherlock Holmes) that a female can be just as good with deductions as a male. Mina still lacks social grace for the most part and while it gets her into trouble at times I find it makes her all the more endearing.
Miss Stoker continues to be rash and desires to use her vampire hunting skills to keep Willa safe while taking out the UnDead if she is able to. Evaline burns with the desire to kill her first vampire and prove to herself she belongs with vampire hunters. Having more money then Mina Evaline is a bit better at social affairs since she is forced to attend them however strolling along a dark street hunting the UnDead is more her style. The Spiritglass Charade seemed a bit unbalanced between the perspectives and it felt like Evaline got less told from her point of view.
Inspector Greyling made a few appearances and I defiantly want to see more of him. The way Grayling interacts with Miss Holmes always has me laughing. Despite being in two books I still feel like I barely know Grayling and I hope that changes.
Pix once again was awesome. The way Pix spoke to Evaline and interacted with her had me wanting more. At first glace a common pickpocket is all Pix appears to be however with the things he knows and the way he gets respect in the underground Pix is clearly a force to be reckoned with. The Spiritglass Charade set things up to indicate Pix is part of something big so I hope it is revealed in The Chess Queen Enigma.
Dylan was barely in the story despite playing a large roll. Normally stories that have time travelers are not my things but Dylan works with the story well. While Dylan does want to get home he also seems to want to establish somewhat of a life in London. I find this makes Dylan a more believable character. I hope more is revealed about Dylan in future books.
The writing was stunning and painted a vivid picture of London done in a steampunk style. I loved it, the perfect amount of detail to keep the story moving. The interactions among all the characters was well done and believable.
Since Stoker and Holmes is my first venture into the steampunk genre I cannot really compare it to anything else but I do want to try something else that is considered steampunk. I eagerly await the release of The Chess Queen Engima.
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