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Elemental Web Chronicles #1
The Golden Spider
On the foggy streets of Victorian London, secrets and spies hide in a world of gaslamp fantasy
Lady Amanda blackmailed her way into a prestigious London medical school…
Not the preferred method of entrance, of course, but necessary, for it’s the only way to force Lord Thornton, a professor at the school, to help her perfect her invention: a clockwork spider capable of spinning artificial nerves.
And Lord Thornton is interested… but is he interested in Amanda, or simply the invention that could cure his own debilitating injury? Neither one can trust the other, but both know this: any attraction is a danger, any romance forbidden.
But when a foreign spy steals the spider and uses it to perform grisly experiments on human subjects, they must set aside both their differences and their growing attraction to capture the killer terrorizing the streets of London.
WHAT READERS ARE SAYING
“A page-turning steampunk romance!”
“Brilliant! I could not put this book down”
“Gadgets, mystery and romance… a perfect combination”
“I adore this world and the author’s ability to blend fantastical impossibilities with genuine, factual science to the point where you really can’t tell where one ends and the other begins”
“a read-in-a-night book that keeps the reader turning the pages to find out what happens next”
“as a woman in STEM I was THRILLED to be reading a book about a beautiful, smart woman and a brilliant, handsome mentor”
Tropes:
Enemies to Lovers
Women in STEM
Damaged Hero
Forbidden Romance
Alternate Victorian London
Forced Proximity
Academic Rivals
Secret Agents
Forbidden Love
Alternative History
Mad Science
Scientific Mystery
Academic Intrigue
Steampunk
Gaslamp Fantasy
Biotechnology
Adventure Romance
Romantasy
Lady Amanda blackmailed her way into a prestigious London medical school…
Not the preferred method of entrance, of course, but necessary, for it’s the only way to force Lord Thornton, a professor at the school, to help her perfect her invention: a clockwork spider capable of spinning artificial nerves.
And Lord Thornton is interested… but is he interested in Amanda, or simply the invention that could cure his own debilitating injury? Neither one can trust the other, but both know this: any attraction is a danger, any romance forbidden.
But when a foreign spy steals the spider and uses it to perform grisly experiments on human subjects, they must set aside both their differences and their growing attraction to capture the killer terrorizing the streets of London.
WHAT READERS ARE SAYING
“A page-turning steampunk romance!”
“Brilliant! I could not put this book down”
“Gadgets, mystery and romance… a perfect combination”
“I adore this world and the author’s ability to blend fantastical impossibilities with genuine, factual science to the point where you really can’t tell where one ends and the other begins”
“a read-in-a-night book that keeps the reader turning the pages to find out what happens next”
“as a woman in STEM I was THRILLED to be reading a book about a beautiful, smart woman and a brilliant, handsome mentor”
Tropes:
Enemies to Lovers
Women in STEM
Damaged Hero
Forbidden Romance
Alternate Victorian London
Forced Proximity
Academic Rivals
Secret Agents
Forbidden Love
Alternative History
Mad Science
Scientific Mystery
Academic Intrigue
Steampunk
Gaslamp Fantasy
Biotechnology
Adventure Romance
Romantasy
ebook
First published August 8, 2016
672 people are currently reading
2736 people want to read
About the author
Anne Renwick
19 books729 followersThough Anne Renwick holds a Ph.D. in biology and greatly enjoyed tormenting the overburdened undergraduates who were her students, fiction has always been her first love. Today, she writes steampunk romance, placing a new kind of biotech in the hands of mad scientists, proper young ladies and determined villains.
Books: https://www.annerenwick.com/bookshelf/
Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/stores/Anne-Re...
Books: https://www.annerenwick.com/bookshelf/
Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/stores/Anne-Re...
Ratings & Reviews
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Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 268 reviews
September 7, 2020
What a simply fabulous read!!! This is my first time reading Anne Renwick and it won't be the last!!When I first saw this cover it was love at first site! It's so beautifully done. In the last couple of years I've read a couple of steampunk romances and have enjoyed this genre very much. Anne's storytelling is fabulous and her words flow flawlessly from page to page. I really liked her two main characters Sebastian and lady amanda. And her side characters like mr. black sebastian's partner and spy master to the queen with his dark good looks and knowing eyes that don't miss a thing and a vicious killer who is experimenting and killing gypsies theirs plenty of action and suspence with a twisted ending when the killer is unmasked. What a awesome mystery with some romance and steamy moments as well. I love historical steampunk and am looking forward to more books from this very talented writer. Between the mechanical spider and the krackens and all sorts of cool weapons and air ships and fashion im hooked! Until next time Luv's💋💕
March 22, 2018
"He'd set her free to choose-his arm tightened around her as warmth flooded his chest-and she'd chosen him."
Regardless of what I read during the day, which is mostly arcs or review copies, for some reason, I love to read romance at night. It's a weird habit, but one I can't seem to break. I seem to crave the HEA and most of the time, the predictability. Every once in a while, the predictability becomes a little too predictable. So, I step outside my normal romance novel box for something different. You know, like a steampunk romance with a heroine who has a cat with a monocle.
Okay, the pipe isn't in the book, but still. That is one classy cat.
Plot: Lady Amanda is a gifted scientist who happens to be the daughter of a duke. No, gifted is the wrong word. She's brilliant. She has spent the last five years of her life inventing and perfecting a device called a neurachnid that can repair nerve damage that causes paralysis. She designed it by herself without formal training. Get it, girl. She manages to get into medical school and is drawn to her professor, Lord Thornton, an equally brilliant scientist who is in service to the crown and is developing devices to help in the war and sometimes, hunts various bad guys. When someone steals Lady Amanda's amazing invention to do terrible things, the two of them have to work together to find it who took it and get it back.
I loved so much about this book. For one, Lord Thornton was a grumpy, brooding genius who would get incredibly turned on watching Lady Amanda work and invent. Nothing sexier than a man attracted to a woman's mind. I even loved his possessive streak. It worked here because he kept it to himself. He was always thinking "mine". Keyword being "thinking". Thinking-good. Acting like a jealous asshole-bad. I also loved that Amanda and Thornton's work in the laboratory often turned into a weird kind of foreplay. It was adorable. Amanda somehow resisted the TSTL urge and was actually helpful when shit went down. What a concept. Neither Lady Amanda or Lord Thornton wanted to marry for legitimate reasons (at least, legitimate to them) and found exactly what they were looking for in one another. On top of that, I was actually surprised when the villain was unveiled. And of course, there's the fact that the servants were steam-powered and Hyde Park was filled with mechanical horses.
Oh, and the Thames was filled with krakens of every size, from babies to ship destroying monsters. YAAAS.
There were of course, a lot of things that would normally bother me and will probably bother other people. The threat of scandal was used only at the most convenient times. Sometimes it was a huge part of the plot, other times it was completely ignored. Lady Amanda was a duke's daughter yet she was always running around at night? She literally never had a chaperone. Which considering that women were admitted to university, might not be a problem, but I would have loved to know where the line was. If women could attend university, what else could they do that traditional non-steampunk English society wouldn't allow? Some things just seemed randomly thrown in. Why Gypsies? Lady Amanda's father, who was a duke, seemed to have some kind of say over Lord Thornton and his colleagues' work. Was this because he was a duke, or for some other reason? Who knows! The reason I enjoyed this book so much despite all of this was that I just didn't care. It boils down to what you're looking for. I didn't care about realistic deference to titles or perfect ton politics, I just wanted a fun, original plot that was more than waltzes and wallflowers. I loved reading about a brilliant neuroscientist for a heroine who refused to languish in a ballroom when she really wanted to be performing surgery. And did! And the book went into incredible medical detail. I loved it. I learned things! And I saved the best for last. The hero's name is Sebastian Thornton. The sexiest first and last name EVER. Okay, well, at least to me. It certainly didn't hurt that this Thornton had dark hair and blue eyes because RICHARD ARMITAGE, that's why. It was like a sexy, science-filled steampunk North and South without the bitchy stupidity that was Margret Hale. God, I love Richard Armitage. That man is sex in a cravat.
So, to sum it all up. This book has its fair share of issues, whether you are going to enjoy it or not really depends on what you're looking for in your romance. I was looking for something different and I found it. I can't wait to read the rest of the series.
Regardless of what I read during the day, which is mostly arcs or review copies, for some reason, I love to read romance at night. It's a weird habit, but one I can't seem to break. I seem to crave the HEA and most of the time, the predictability. Every once in a while, the predictability becomes a little too predictable. So, I step outside my normal romance novel box for something different. You know, like a steampunk romance with a heroine who has a cat with a monocle.
Okay, the pipe isn't in the book, but still. That is one classy cat.
Plot: Lady Amanda is a gifted scientist who happens to be the daughter of a duke. No, gifted is the wrong word. She's brilliant. She has spent the last five years of her life inventing and perfecting a device called a neurachnid that can repair nerve damage that causes paralysis. She designed it by herself without formal training. Get it, girl. She manages to get into medical school and is drawn to her professor, Lord Thornton, an equally brilliant scientist who is in service to the crown and is developing devices to help in the war and sometimes, hunts various bad guys. When someone steals Lady Amanda's amazing invention to do terrible things, the two of them have to work together to find it who took it and get it back.
I loved so much about this book. For one, Lord Thornton was a grumpy, brooding genius who would get incredibly turned on watching Lady Amanda work and invent. Nothing sexier than a man attracted to a woman's mind. I even loved his possessive streak. It worked here because he kept it to himself. He was always thinking "mine". Keyword being "thinking". Thinking-good. Acting like a jealous asshole-bad. I also loved that Amanda and Thornton's work in the laboratory often turned into a weird kind of foreplay. It was adorable. Amanda somehow resisted the TSTL urge and was actually helpful when shit went down. What a concept. Neither Lady Amanda or Lord Thornton wanted to marry for legitimate reasons (at least, legitimate to them) and found exactly what they were looking for in one another. On top of that, I was actually surprised when the villain was unveiled. And of course, there's the fact that the servants were steam-powered and Hyde Park was filled with mechanical horses.
Oh, and the Thames was filled with krakens of every size, from babies to ship destroying monsters. YAAAS.
There were of course, a lot of things that would normally bother me and will probably bother other people. The threat of scandal was used only at the most convenient times. Sometimes it was a huge part of the plot, other times it was completely ignored. Lady Amanda was a duke's daughter yet she was always running around at night? She literally never had a chaperone. Which considering that women were admitted to university, might not be a problem, but I would have loved to know where the line was. If women could attend university, what else could they do that traditional non-steampunk English society wouldn't allow? Some things just seemed randomly thrown in. Why Gypsies? Lady Amanda's father, who was a duke, seemed to have some kind of say over Lord Thornton and his colleagues' work. Was this because he was a duke, or for some other reason? Who knows! The reason I enjoyed this book so much despite all of this was that I just didn't care. It boils down to what you're looking for. I didn't care about realistic deference to titles or perfect ton politics, I just wanted a fun, original plot that was more than waltzes and wallflowers. I loved reading about a brilliant neuroscientist for a heroine who refused to languish in a ballroom when she really wanted to be performing surgery. And did! And the book went into incredible medical detail. I loved it. I learned things! And I saved the best for last. The hero's name is Sebastian Thornton. The sexiest first and last name EVER. Okay, well, at least to me. It certainly didn't hurt that this Thornton had dark hair and blue eyes because RICHARD ARMITAGE, that's why. It was like a sexy, science-filled steampunk North and South without the bitchy stupidity that was Margret Hale. God, I love Richard Armitage. That man is sex in a cravat.
So, to sum it all up. This book has its fair share of issues, whether you are going to enjoy it or not really depends on what you're looking for in your romance. I was looking for something different and I found it. I can't wait to read the rest of the series.
January 10, 2024
I'm starting this review off by saying I'm not a huge fan of steampunk, but this one was free and the blurb really caught my eye. Thankfully, The Golden Spider lived up to that promise and was a complex but engaging book! The setting is a steampunk version of Victorian England and the plot is heavily focused on neuroscience and medical injuries/advancement with many technical details. There's also a mystery connected to the science aspect with a villain performing experiments on individuals and killing them. Not my usual fare book-wise, but I'm glad I picked it up. The romance also held equal weight to the plot. Also, the h has a cat with a monocle, enough said.
Amanda (h) is the daughter of a duke and a scientist at heart who has arranged to go to medical school by agreeing with her father that she will marry within the year. Thornton (H) is an earl, a scientist, and a field agent for the government, who is forced to be a professor at the medical school for the term while also investigating the mad doctor. These two have sizzle and attraction from the first meeting, in the lecture hall. They also spark with each other mentally since their medical interests overlap. Amanda is drawn to nerve science specifically to help her brother, who has leg injuries, and Thornton is also dealing with a failing leg. Amanda quickly proves her intelligence and value, so is brought into Thornton's lab and investigation. There are scenes of typical historical social activities, medical experimentation, tinkering, lots of danger and suspense, espionage, and political maneuvering. Written in third person, multi-POV including the villain and a side character. No ow drama, some om drama from a suitor of the h's. H is not a virgin (no history given) and h is a virgin (but didn't seem to attach the value to it that daughters of peers in Victorian England typically did).
I thought both Amanda and Thornton were strong main characters and likable. They have their faults and flaws too of course. Mainly around whether their romantic interest could be pursued given their student/professor relationship and that Thornton is unwilling to marry, while Amanda is being pressured to do so. Amanda's suitor also drives Thornton crazy, although I wouldn't classify this as a love triangle, since Amanda's interest is completely on Thornton from her first interaction with him. Plenty of forced proximity scenes while these two are investigating and researching. Thornton was grumpy and hard to get to know, but Amanda kept poking and prodding at him. I did like that this was a slow burn and build to the steamy times and the realization that they could be together. Even with the slow burn, there are a couple of explicit scenes that were well-written and surprised me with how spicy they were with my past experience with these types of books.
Lots of foundation work and breadcrumbs are laid early in the book and then throughout to give hints of what's to come. I didn't find the plot very surprising, but the pacing and the dynamics at play stayed intriguing. The writing wasn't always smooth, for example descriptions sometimes became bogged down, but it still flowed. When I finished the book, I did feel like there might have been a couple of loose ends or something I didn't quite understand, but for the most part the book addresses the major plot lines and side plots very well. Side characters abound from Amanda's family to Thornton's co-workers to Romani who are pulled into the whole situation (they are referred to as gypsies in this book, I know some readers are bothered by this). Family drama plays a major role, as does the theme of betrayal. It's not clear who the main characters can trust. Also, the setting was hugely interesting from the normal historical expected scenes vs. krakens in the Thames, just as an example.
The climax was very intense and fast-paced with Amanda and Thornton having to make split-second decisions and in a heck of a lot of danger. The reveal of the villain could have been a little stronger and there was a lot of chaos that felt a bit confusing. I did feel like the chapter after the climax was a bit weaker too. I liked that Amanda and Thornton chose each other and that there was a willingness to sacrifice, but Thornton was a bit of an idiot. A romantic idiot, but an idiot. It all comes out fine and they start their HEA, shown with an epilogue a short time jump ahead that ties a bow around one of the side plots, highlights them happy together, and provides a bit of a lead in to the next book. I'm curious enough about what could happen next and the blurb of book 2 that I will continue the series.
Trigger warnings: graphic descriptions of medical injuries, procedures, and experimentation; depictions of injuries related to not being able to fully use a limb; misogyny related to women in science; kidnapping; violence
Amanda (h) is the daughter of a duke and a scientist at heart who has arranged to go to medical school by agreeing with her father that she will marry within the year. Thornton (H) is an earl, a scientist, and a field agent for the government, who is forced to be a professor at the medical school for the term while also investigating the mad doctor. These two have sizzle and attraction from the first meeting, in the lecture hall. They also spark with each other mentally since their medical interests overlap. Amanda is drawn to nerve science specifically to help her brother, who has leg injuries, and Thornton is also dealing with a failing leg. Amanda quickly proves her intelligence and value, so is brought into Thornton's lab and investigation. There are scenes of typical historical social activities, medical experimentation, tinkering, lots of danger and suspense, espionage, and political maneuvering. Written in third person, multi-POV including the villain and a side character. No ow drama, some om drama from a suitor of the h's. H is not a virgin (no history given) and h is a virgin (but didn't seem to attach the value to it that daughters of peers in Victorian England typically did).
I thought both Amanda and Thornton were strong main characters and likable. They have their faults and flaws too of course. Mainly around whether their romantic interest could be pursued given their student/professor relationship and that Thornton is unwilling to marry, while Amanda is being pressured to do so. Amanda's suitor also drives Thornton crazy, although I wouldn't classify this as a love triangle, since Amanda's interest is completely on Thornton from her first interaction with him. Plenty of forced proximity scenes while these two are investigating and researching. Thornton was grumpy and hard to get to know, but Amanda kept poking and prodding at him. I did like that this was a slow burn and build to the steamy times and the realization that they could be together. Even with the slow burn, there are a couple of explicit scenes that were well-written and surprised me with how spicy they were with my past experience with these types of books.
Lots of foundation work and breadcrumbs are laid early in the book and then throughout to give hints of what's to come. I didn't find the plot very surprising, but the pacing and the dynamics at play stayed intriguing. The writing wasn't always smooth, for example descriptions sometimes became bogged down, but it still flowed. When I finished the book, I did feel like there might have been a couple of loose ends or something I didn't quite understand, but for the most part the book addresses the major plot lines and side plots very well. Side characters abound from Amanda's family to Thornton's co-workers to Romani who are pulled into the whole situation (they are referred to as gypsies in this book, I know some readers are bothered by this). Family drama plays a major role, as does the theme of betrayal. It's not clear who the main characters can trust. Also, the setting was hugely interesting from the normal historical expected scenes vs. krakens in the Thames, just as an example.
The climax was very intense and fast-paced with Amanda and Thornton having to make split-second decisions and in a heck of a lot of danger. The reveal of the villain could have been a little stronger and there was a lot of chaos that felt a bit confusing. I did feel like the chapter after the climax was a bit weaker too. I liked that Amanda and Thornton chose each other and that there was a willingness to sacrifice, but Thornton was a bit of an idiot. A romantic idiot, but an idiot. It all comes out fine and they start their HEA, shown with an epilogue a short time jump ahead that ties a bow around one of the side plots, highlights them happy together, and provides a bit of a lead in to the next book. I'm curious enough about what could happen next and the blurb of book 2 that I will continue the series.
Trigger warnings: graphic descriptions of medical injuries, procedures, and experimentation; depictions of injuries related to not being able to fully use a limb; misogyny related to women in science; kidnapping; violence
July 25, 2019
I love steampunk and this book is really good! Not perfect, but really good! For me it was 4,5 stars rounded to 5.
I loved the gadgets and all the pure steampunk side of the story.
I didn't loved (but didn't hate either!) the conflicting aspect of the victorian excetating behaviour of women. If they need a chaperone to go shopping, how the heroine, Amanda, can go sneaking in the night with the hero, Thornton?
The explanation that she's working for the Queen is lame...
Also the expectation of her father and her mother (what a harpy!!!) for her to wed seemed forced since she was of age.
I also didn't understand why Thornton was so contrary to the marriage with Amanda when he was aware that he must marry? Amanda is a duke's daugther and therefore a perfect spouse for an Earl... She's intelligent, sensual, beautiful too, but he was reclutant until the very end! Mah...
On the positive side, the story is inticate enough and interesting with all the pseudo-scientific achivements and inventions! Also the world-building with London's river infested with krakens, the dirigibles, the submarines, the spying that I was avidly reading and savoring the book!
I loved the descriptions of how Amanda's neurachnid, or the golden spider, works! It was truly genious! The author make me almost belive that it could work! LOL
I'll jump right into the second book of the series hoping it will be as good (or maybe better... who knows) than this one!
July 18, 2019
While Lady Amanda is attending medical school after successfully blackmailing her father the Duke, all of London is watching the papers regarding serial murders of gypsies and kraken swarms in the River Thames.
Amanda lives in an alternate steampunk London and is quite skilled as a self-taught scientist. She has even created a spider that if successful may help her brother walk again. She is eager for some assistance or direction from the esteemed Lord Thornton, a prominent neurobiologist. He lectures at the college she has selected.
Lord Thornton hates the lecture hall, but it allows him cover as he works for the Crown. A leg injury is complicating their field investigations and they are no closer to catching the gypsy killer when an autopsy links Amanda’s spider to the bodies.
From, their sizzling chemistry to their collection of brilliant minds I found myself completely caught up in this time sensitive whodunit. Gadgets, automations and London itself all proved delightful.
I forgot how much I love steampunk fiction and The Golden Spider, the first in the Elemental Web Chronicles fed my inner nerd while provided a complex murder investigation and delicious swoon-worthy romance.
Henrietta Meire narrated, and I quite enjoyed her accents, pacing and tones. She helped enhance the story infusing the back-and-forth tension between Thornton and Amanda.
If you’ve never read steampunk, but love historical romances and murder-mysteries this is the perfect story/series to try it. It delivered a romance with sizzling chemistry, a hero who will surely fall and a feisty, strong and clever heroine. Add in some fun sidekicks a Duke with his hands full and wisdom beyond his years the story had all the elements to provide an addictive and entertaining listen. This review was originally posted at Caffeinated Reviewer
Amanda lives in an alternate steampunk London and is quite skilled as a self-taught scientist. She has even created a spider that if successful may help her brother walk again. She is eager for some assistance or direction from the esteemed Lord Thornton, a prominent neurobiologist. He lectures at the college she has selected.
Lord Thornton hates the lecture hall, but it allows him cover as he works for the Crown. A leg injury is complicating their field investigations and they are no closer to catching the gypsy killer when an autopsy links Amanda’s spider to the bodies.
From, their sizzling chemistry to their collection of brilliant minds I found myself completely caught up in this time sensitive whodunit. Gadgets, automations and London itself all proved delightful.
I forgot how much I love steampunk fiction and The Golden Spider, the first in the Elemental Web Chronicles fed my inner nerd while provided a complex murder investigation and delicious swoon-worthy romance.
Henrietta Meire narrated, and I quite enjoyed her accents, pacing and tones. She helped enhance the story infusing the back-and-forth tension between Thornton and Amanda.
If you’ve never read steampunk, but love historical romances and murder-mysteries this is the perfect story/series to try it. It delivered a romance with sizzling chemistry, a hero who will surely fall and a feisty, strong and clever heroine. Add in some fun sidekicks a Duke with his hands full and wisdom beyond his years the story had all the elements to provide an addictive and entertaining listen. This review was originally posted at Caffeinated Reviewer
November 1, 2020
What a pleasant surprise. I was scrolling on goodreads when I saw a review one of my friends had done on this book. It sounded like my cup of tea so I found it on my Libby App. Lady Amanda is everything I love in a female character. Fiercely independent, smart, sassy, and not afraid to go for what she wants. Lord Thornton is everything I love in a male character. Brooding, tortured soul, knowing what he wants, but over complicates. The steampunk elements were wonderful and added to the story. The sexual tension between Lord Thornton and Lady Amanda was on point. I enjoyed this book so much and if you like Steampunk I would highly recommend it.
November 12, 2018
You may know this already, but I struggle to read steampunk. I have the hardest time getting really into the stories I've read in this genre. This is not to say I haven't found some favorites, but usually they're few and far between. Enter THE GOLDEN SPIDER. I was lured in by the beautiful cover and I admit it's been on my radar for quite some time. I'm glad to say that this is a steampunk romance I could sink my teeth into and enjoy!There's a bit of mystery and murder investigation, there's a dash of steampunk elements weaved into the mystery and murder in an interesting fashion. But mostly there's the characters and the writing. This book just flowed and drew me in. Lady Amanda is a strong willed female that likes to push her way into being taken seriously. She's smart and feminine and for the most part quite unapologetic about it. I adored her character because there are still so many things in life she has no clue about but at the same time she's already gone through more than most. She's also fiercely loyal to her family.
The love interest, Lord Thornton, couldn't have been a better fit. They make a kick ass team in the research and science department but they also have great chemistry together! He's a bit perfectly imperfect and I love my heroes to be like that. Maybe even a bit of a grump and guarded but with plenty of reason. The romance here also deals with a student/teacher relationship that in no way felt or played on the taboo aspect of it.
I am, finally, excited to continue reading a steampunk author/series and I haven't felt that way in years.
*Reviewed by Francesca❤ ♡ Don't want to miss any of our posts? Subscribe to our blog by email! ♡ ❤
November 4, 2021
Super smart, beautiful and driven heroine with a broody, injured, grumpy, older hero - sign me up!! I’ve never read steampunk until this book, and I loved it. It’s a beautiful mix of historical with technology and so fun to read. Amanda was the perfect heroine. So smart and working on a cure for her brother in her chicken pen lab, attending medical school, and trying to find a husband (as ordered to do so by her father). Lord Thornton was yummy - older, struggling with an injury, immediately taken with his much younger student and fighting it.
This adventure takes us to Romani camps and late night plant hunting along the kraken infested Thames. There is a scene in the warehouse that is oh so steamy!
Amanda and Thornton are perfect for each other. I was rooting for them from the beginning and their chemistry is off the charts. This book was an absolutely delightful introduction to steampunk.
This adventure takes us to Romani camps and late night plant hunting along the kraken infested Thames. There is a scene in the warehouse that is oh so steamy!
Amanda and Thornton are perfect for each other. I was rooting for them from the beginning and their chemistry is off the charts. This book was an absolutely delightful introduction to steampunk.
May 10, 2020
3.75
Love a good Steampunk story with romance and mystery!
Love a good Steampunk story with romance and mystery!
April 11, 2017
I don't normally read steampunk romantic thrillers, but The Golden Spider by Anne Renwick sounded like a doozy. Lady Amanda, the female protagonist, is attending medical school and spends her spare time at home working on a device that can reverse paralysis. I wanted to know more about this woman. So I requested a sample through Instafreebie, and then purchased the book on Amazon.
Opinion on this book is divided. Some readers who love to read steampunk that really develops the scientific side of the devices which the protagonists invent, complain that there is too much romance in this novel. Other readers complain that there is too much scientific detail in The Golden Spider. My objection was a failure of realism. There were medical miracles, but apparently the restored limbs needed no prolonged physical therapy. I can see how lengthy physical therapy would be problematic for the plot, but I found the failure to even mention physical therapy hard to swallow. I did think the book was an enjoyable read, but I deducted a star from my rating here on Goodreads.
Correction 4/11/17- Perhaps I was writing too many reviews at once this weekend, but I forgot to look through all my notes for this book. There was actually a mention of a physical therapist, but physical therapy played no role in the plot. It was otherwise absent. There were unrealistic recovery times. So my point still holds.
For my complete review see http://wwwbookbabe.blogspot.com/2017/...
Opinion on this book is divided. Some readers who love to read steampunk that really develops the scientific side of the devices which the protagonists invent, complain that there is too much romance in this novel. Other readers complain that there is too much scientific detail in The Golden Spider. My objection was a failure of realism. There were medical miracles, but apparently the restored limbs needed no prolonged physical therapy. I can see how lengthy physical therapy would be problematic for the plot, but I found the failure to even mention physical therapy hard to swallow. I did think the book was an enjoyable read, but I deducted a star from my rating here on Goodreads.
Correction 4/11/17- Perhaps I was writing too many reviews at once this weekend, but I forgot to look through all my notes for this book. There was actually a mention of a physical therapist, but physical therapy played no role in the plot. It was otherwise absent. There were unrealistic recovery times. So my point still holds.
For my complete review see http://wwwbookbabe.blogspot.com/2017/...
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If you love forbidden romance, forced proximity, a tortured yet irresistible hero, academic rivalry, secret-agent intrigue, mad science, Victorian London, alternate history and mystery, then you’ll love The Golden Spider.
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• Enemies to Lovers
• Women in STEM
• Damaged Hero
• Forbidden Romance
• Alternate Victorian London
• Forced Proximity
• Academic Rivals
• Secret Agents
• Alternative History
• Mad Science
• Scientific Mystery
• Academic Intrigue
• Steampunk
• Gaslamp Fantasy
• Biotechnology
• Adventure Romance
• Romantasy
If you love forbidden romance, forced proximity, a tortured yet irresistible hero, academic rivalry, secret-agent intrigue, mad science, Victorian London, alternate history and mystery, then you’ll love The Golden Spider.
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• Enemies to Lovers
• Women in STEM
• Damaged Hero
• Forbidden Romance
• Alternate Victorian London
• Forced Proximity
• Academic Rivals
• Secret Agents
• Alternative History
• Mad Science
• Scientific Mystery
• Academic Intrigue
• Steampunk
• Gaslamp Fantasy
• Biotechnology
• Adventure Romance
• Romantasy
June 26, 2017
3 1/2
Unexpectedly good, even if far from perfect.
Unexpectedly good, even if far from perfect.
November 2, 2016
i'm finished with the book, tho i didn't actually finish reading it. this is one of my favorite genres-historical mystery/suspense with a steampunk theme. at first, i was really into the storyline and wanted to continue reading till i was done. however, after several chapters that changed.
one of the things i had a problem with was the continued use of medical terms. on almost every page it seemed as though one of the characters was spouting off medical terminology as if we were supposed to know exactly what they were talking about. while the author may have a Ph.D. i don't, and constantly running into these terms was more than a bit jarring and frankly took me out of the story more than once.
another thing that bothered me was how ridiculous the relationship between the two main characters was. yes, sexual tension helps drive a story, but if not done properly it can also cause the reader to spend more time wanting to bang their head against a wall at the overall frustration they're feeling [at the lack of a good solution] as the main characters must be feeling.
there were several other things that bothered me about the storyline and character development, some of which i've stated here and others i can't quite define even to myself. suffice it to say that 1) had i known there were explicit sex scenes in the book and 2) had i known i'd need my medical dictionary to translate way too much of what the characters were saying i wouldn't have bought the book.
other readers have given this book stellar reviews, and i'm glad to see that they enjoyed it. i guess this one just wasn't quite my cup of tea.
one of the things i had a problem with was the continued use of medical terms. on almost every page it seemed as though one of the characters was spouting off medical terminology as if we were supposed to know exactly what they were talking about. while the author may have a Ph.D. i don't, and constantly running into these terms was more than a bit jarring and frankly took me out of the story more than once.
another thing that bothered me was how ridiculous the relationship between the two main characters was. yes, sexual tension helps drive a story, but if not done properly it can also cause the reader to spend more time wanting to bang their head against a wall at the overall frustration they're feeling [at the lack of a good solution] as the main characters must be feeling.
there were several other things that bothered me about the storyline and character development, some of which i've stated here and others i can't quite define even to myself. suffice it to say that 1) had i known there were explicit sex scenes in the book and 2) had i known i'd need my medical dictionary to translate way too much of what the characters were saying i wouldn't have bought the book.
other readers have given this book stellar reviews, and i'm glad to see that they enjoyed it. i guess this one just wasn't quite my cup of tea.
April 16, 2021
My Booktube
cw/tw: the slur for Romani people is used heavily since they're a main part of the plot, can't say how well they are portrayed either since I do not know a lot about stereotypes/offensive tropes about them
this was another case of good writing, just was not working for me. The romance had its moments where I was rooting for them, but the hero was SO against marriage for so long when it was obvious the heroine was special to him, it dragged. The steampunk elements didn't feel as pronounced for some reason? Like they ARE there and a core part of the novel is the mystery + technology but for some reason I still didn't really feel it.
Also since this IS mostly a mystery, that is why it is so low. Leaning towards a 1 actually, but the writing was good imo, so I'm bumping to a 2. The big twist just makes 0 sense to me. Like when the reveal happens it feels like there is no ACTUAL evidence and is instead basically just a hunch we're supposed to have. When until then... there is no hint of anything. And also the last minute understanding/fighting between our couple was very annoying.
cw/tw: the slur for Romani people is used heavily since they're a main part of the plot, can't say how well they are portrayed either since I do not know a lot about stereotypes/offensive tropes about them
this was another case of good writing, just was not working for me. The romance had its moments where I was rooting for them, but the hero was SO against marriage for so long when it was obvious the heroine was special to him, it dragged. The steampunk elements didn't feel as pronounced for some reason? Like they ARE there and a core part of the novel is the mystery + technology but for some reason I still didn't really feel it.
Also since this IS mostly a mystery, that is why it is so low. Leaning towards a 1 actually, but the writing was good imo, so I'm bumping to a 2. The big twist just makes 0 sense to me. Like when the reveal happens it feels like there is no ACTUAL evidence and is instead basically just a hunch we're supposed to have. When until then... there is no hint of anything. And also the last minute understanding/fighting between our couple was very annoying.
December 29, 2017
I cant really put my finger on it but there was something that really wasn't working out for me whilst reading this story.
The steampunk was nice , the romance was steamy , the angst was palpable but something just didn't make me go all ' yeah this was bloody fantastic ' ...
The steampunk was nice , the romance was steamy , the angst was palpable but something just didn't make me go all ' yeah this was bloody fantastic ' ...
November 1, 2024
Yes! When I ordered this book, this was exactly what I had hoped I would get. The heroine of this story is amazing. Mostly because she feels modern in a way and yet she doesn't forget about the time period she's living in. She's in medical school, but she's also forced to actively hunt for a husband. Throughout the book it's quite clear why that is so hard and what she really wants. I also loved the hero's journey in this book. I love his doubts and issues. I love his character growth. How love how, at the end of the story, it's impossible not to root for these two to get their happily after! And, on top of the romance, there is also a lot of science and a nice murder mystery. I already can't wait to read all the other books in this series!
October 14, 2020
Not bad. An interesting alternate historical steampunk world and interesting characters. The romance was OK, though I did think everyone was kind of annoying and borderline stupid with some of the decisions and actions they took. Not everything made sense but I was entertained.
I thought the Duke's family were the most annoying characters of the lot, no exceptions (ironically, the Duke himself least). Though I admired the skanky (for the time) heroine's cleverness and intelligence. Mostly.
I thought the Duke's family were the most annoying characters of the lot, no exceptions (ironically, the Duke himself least). Though I admired the skanky (for the time) heroine's cleverness and intelligence. Mostly.
April 2, 2023
Adorei o mundo e as personagens. Livro muito divertido, apesar da capa medonha
September 5, 2017
3.5 stars. A suspenseful and sexy steampunk. While I was ultimately more invested in the resolution of the mystery than the romance, I nevertheless found it an engrossing and enjoyable read.
Lady Amanda was a treat. I’ve become somewhat disenchanted with historical romance over the years because I prefer ambitious, career-minded heroines and, unsurprisingly, they aren’t particularly common. Amanda was smart and sassy, but she also had vulnerabilities and insecurities. She made mistakes. I was sold from the moment we caught a glimpse of her at work on a clockwork spider that can “spin” artificial nerves and reverse paralysis. When her spider is stolen, it catches the attention of the government and Lord Thornton, our scientist spy hero. While the spider has groundbreaking scientific implications, there are also national security concerns at play. Amanda already has a “hot for teacher” thing for Thornton, a professor at her medical school, and it adds a delightful layer of tension.
Despite my weakness for grumpy and gruff heroes, I wasn’t AS sold on Thornton. We didn't get as much time in Thornton’s head and, as a result, I was unable to connect as well or understand his inner conflict and angst. Don't get me wrong - when he got it together, he was swoonalicious, but I wanted to smack him a few times. And not only did we not get as much “Thornton time”, we didn’t get an abundance of “couple time”. Still, they had a nice amount of steam and emotion and their HEA was touching. Also! Thornton has an injured leg, and there were several instances where Amanda helped “save the day” or took the physical lead. I effing hate the "damsel-in-distress" trope and appreciated that it was turned on its head here.
There is A LOT of medical and scientific jargon. I had to reread a few times to fully grasp it, but it lent authenticity to the book. The world-building was moderate but well-done, and the glimpses into the various gadgets were tantalizing. As I noted, I was a bit more invested in the mystery aspect, and I can say thatI was genuinely surprised by the villain (which doesn’t happen often).
All in all, I wouldn't hesitate to recommend this for a fun and fresh read!
Lady Amanda was a treat. I’ve become somewhat disenchanted with historical romance over the years because I prefer ambitious, career-minded heroines and, unsurprisingly, they aren’t particularly common. Amanda was smart and sassy, but she also had vulnerabilities and insecurities. She made mistakes. I was sold from the moment we caught a glimpse of her at work on a clockwork spider that can “spin” artificial nerves and reverse paralysis. When her spider is stolen, it catches the attention of the government and Lord Thornton, our scientist spy hero. While the spider has groundbreaking scientific implications, there are also national security concerns at play. Amanda already has a “hot for teacher” thing for Thornton, a professor at her medical school, and it adds a delightful layer of tension.
Despite my weakness for grumpy and gruff heroes, I wasn’t AS sold on Thornton. We didn't get as much time in Thornton’s head and, as a result, I was unable to connect as well or understand his inner conflict and angst. Don't get me wrong - when he got it together, he was swoonalicious, but I wanted to smack him a few times. And not only did we not get as much “Thornton time”, we didn’t get an abundance of “couple time”. Still, they had a nice amount of steam and emotion and their HEA was touching. Also! Thornton has an injured leg, and there were several instances where Amanda helped “save the day” or took the physical lead. I effing hate the "damsel-in-distress" trope and appreciated that it was turned on its head here.
There is A LOT of medical and scientific jargon. I had to reread a few times to fully grasp it, but it lent authenticity to the book. The world-building was moderate but well-done, and the glimpses into the various gadgets were tantalizing. As I noted, I was a bit more invested in the mystery aspect, and I can say thatI was genuinely surprised by the villain (which doesn’t happen often).
All in all, I wouldn't hesitate to recommend this for a fun and fresh read!
February 10, 2017
Man oh man was this book GOOOOD! It was steamy (though I must admit to skimming through the naughtiest of bits), extremely well written, well researched, action/romance packed and neatly wrapped up at the end (for most of the leading characters that is). It was told in multiple POVs which can be tricky but worked here. There was quite a bit of Romance so those who are deathly allergic beware BUT most importantly there was Science! Science how I love thee!! A few reviewers complained about the amount of Science in the book. I personally can not stress enough how the Science and the incredibly detailed Steampunk(ness) drew me in and kept me firmly within its loving, mechanically and biologically technical grasp until the very last page. The Steampunk/ Mad Science aspects were done so expertly that they not only seemed 100% believable but quite possible, for those of us who would be so inclined, to replicate in our very own garages. The Romance was not an insta-love, nor was the reader bludgeoned with its presence or urgency the entirety of the book. It was sweet, slow to mature, and you couldn't help but root for it to solidify (and I am not the biggest of Romance fans). I believe The Science was so well explained that even Scientific newbies could follow along and puzzle the concepts out without prior knowledge of anatomy, physiology or chemistry....All that is required is an interest imo. ALSO, there were kraken, derigible, personal submersibles, steam powered/ mechanical everything (including nerve repairing arachnids), mad scientists, international espionage and you guessed it...air pirates! No good Steampunk yarn can be spun without the trusty air pirate or two. If you like Alt-Historical, Steampunk, Romance or Science based tales of espionage, love against the odds, scientific perfection and mechanical wonders filled awesomeness...you have found your next fav and new topper of the ever growing TBR pile!
August 7, 2016
Loved it! I'm a huge fan of steampunk and romance and found this book a great read!
Lady Amanda is strong and smart without anachronistic sentiments or tendencies. Thornton is written with a certain dry British air that I just loved. The spark between them felt very real and was based on much more than surface attraction. I loved how necessary they each were to solving each other's problems, and the main conflict in the book. They worked well together and the tension keeping them apart was believable.
The steampunk parts of the book were also great! It created a world with a good mix of historical feel and steampunk technology without overly explaining everything. I loved how the fashion was also described so that it was also influenced by steampunk tendencies.
The book felt a touch slow to start (though I was also extremely tired when I was trying to start and had many distractions from kids, so, that could have been the only issue) and the ending took a bit to wrap everything up (though again, was reading at work amid distractions and interruptions). But these are very minor issues, and also just a matter of personal taste/circumstance.
The supporting characters in the book were also great and I'm looking forward to more books in the series (hopefully something with Mr. Black?)
Lady Amanda is strong and smart without anachronistic sentiments or tendencies. Thornton is written with a certain dry British air that I just loved. The spark between them felt very real and was based on much more than surface attraction. I loved how necessary they each were to solving each other's problems, and the main conflict in the book. They worked well together and the tension keeping them apart was believable.
The steampunk parts of the book were also great! It created a world with a good mix of historical feel and steampunk technology without overly explaining everything. I loved how the fashion was also described so that it was also influenced by steampunk tendencies.
The book felt a touch slow to start (though I was also extremely tired when I was trying to start and had many distractions from kids, so, that could have been the only issue) and the ending took a bit to wrap everything up (though again, was reading at work amid distractions and interruptions). But these are very minor issues, and also just a matter of personal taste/circumstance.
The supporting characters in the book were also great and I'm looking forward to more books in the series (hopefully something with Mr. Black?)
April 2, 2022
*Audiobook review*
The Golden Spider by Anne Renwick is the first book in the Elemental Steampunk Chronicles. I did go in knowing that it wasn't clean. I knew there would be sex scenes.
I just didn't know how much I would hate the male lead and find his actions disgraceful. Thornton is a jerk and I'm not afraid to say it.
Amanda is being pressured to marry. Thornton swears he never will. She's a student. He's a professor.
He's also a Queens agent. But how can he catch a killer when all he can think about is Lady Amanda's body?
He's not very smart and he's no gentleman, he constantly puts his own wants and desires before Amanda's, really anyone's for that matter.
A promising murder mystery, the in-depth world building, fantastic Steampunk mechanics, even the twist villain at the end, are all over shadowed by sex scenes and lust-filled monologues that didn't make me feel anything except sick.
This book could have been such a great adventure story but instead I found myself listening at 2x speed to get through the uncomfortable parts.
The narrator read well. She tried to make me believe that there was a spark of romance between the leads. She really shined in the supporting characters though, giving them all unique voices and doing a wonderful job with the varied accents.
My Diagnosis: This steampunk could use a little less steam.
The Golden Spider by Anne Renwick is the first book in the Elemental Steampunk Chronicles. I did go in knowing that it wasn't clean. I knew there would be sex scenes.
I just didn't know how much I would hate the male lead and find his actions disgraceful. Thornton is a jerk and I'm not afraid to say it.
Amanda is being pressured to marry. Thornton swears he never will. She's a student. He's a professor.
He's also a Queens agent. But how can he catch a killer when all he can think about is Lady Amanda's body?
He's not very smart and he's no gentleman, he constantly puts his own wants and desires before Amanda's, really anyone's for that matter.
A promising murder mystery, the in-depth world building, fantastic Steampunk mechanics, even the twist villain at the end, are all over shadowed by sex scenes and lust-filled monologues that didn't make me feel anything except sick.
This book could have been such a great adventure story but instead I found myself listening at 2x speed to get through the uncomfortable parts.
The narrator read well. She tried to make me believe that there was a spark of romance between the leads. She really shined in the supporting characters though, giving them all unique voices and doing a wonderful job with the varied accents.
My Diagnosis: This steampunk could use a little less steam.
November 27, 2016
3.5 stars. Steampunk romance in the style of Bec McMaster. While the steampunk element is very well done this is predominantly a romance. I liked the Amanda was strong and intelligent and that Thornton recognised this and respected her abilities. However I was baffled by his resistance to marrying her her given his attraction to and respect for her and the fact the he fully intended to marry to carry on his title in the future. Yet despite all of this he is insistent that all he can offer her is an affair. That made no sense to me. I picked the identity of the Wasp very early in the piece so I was completely unsurprised by that twist.
June 8, 2019
This one was so average, I guess I was expecting something spectacular like Bec McMasters. Instead I got this, where the main problem was the romance just was so lacking and tepid. I wanted passion instead I got a whimper. Hell even at the end it took the h pushing him for the H to do something about them being together. This series may not be for me.
August 4, 2019
Should have enjoyed this more - the genre is a fav, the H/h had chemistry, the mystery was one...but the telling was tedious. Speeding things along and adding some smex would serve future stories by this author well.
September 29, 2018
2 stars. Bodice ripper masquerading as steampunk fantasy.
December 28, 2024
The Golden Spider by Anne Renwick (audiobook)
In Victorian London, Lady Amanda blackmails her way into a medical school to seek help perfecting her clockwork spider, capable of spinning artificial nerves. When the invention falls into the hands of a murderous spy, she and her enigmatic professor Lord Thornton must navigate secrets, spies, and forbidden attraction to stop a killer.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
The dual narration by Zara Hampton-Brown and Timothy Campbell brought The Golden Spider to life in ways I hadn't anticipated. Their seamless transitions between accents added depth to the world of gaslamp fantasy, and their performances enriched the story immeasurably. Zara Hampton-Brown, in particular, deserves high praise—her portrayal of characters beyond Amanda was so varied and convincing that I genuinely thought there were additional narrators. Her male voices, often a challenging feat for female narrators, were impeccable.
Anne Renwick accomplished the near-impossible: she made me enjoy both a professor-student romance and a STEM-focused heroine, two tropes I’ve actively disliked in the past. Lady Amanda is no damsel in distress—she’s clever, resourceful, and refreshingly ambitious, qualities that drive the story forward. Her passion for science, driven by her desire to help her brother recover from his injuries, was both compelling and relatable. On the other hand, Lord Thornton, while undeniably swoon-worthy, tested my patience more than once with his gruff demeanour and occasional foolishness. Thankfully, their romance felt balanced, with much of the focus on their professional collaboration, mutual respect, and intellectual chemistry, rather than an overemphasis on power dynamics.
The steampunk Victorian setting was a delight, bursting with intricate gadgets and imaginative details. The clockwork spider, capable of spinning artificial nerves, was not only a marvel of the genre but also a key plot driver. The scientific jargon and medical advancements woven into the story added authenticity, and while some passages were dense, they never felt out of place.
The plot itself struck a nice balance between romance and mystery. The danger posed by a murderous spy experimenting on human subjects was gripping, and the twists and turns of espionage kept me hooked. The apparent reveal of the villain made me doubt my initial guess, a rarity for me in mysteries. Additionally, the Gypsy characters and their traditions were portrayed with nuance and respect, adding a rich cultural layer to the story.
The romance was a slow burn, building steadily with moments of tension and forced proximity that kept me invested. While Thornton’s jealousy over Amanda’s suitor and his opposition to marriage sometimes felt excessive, it was tempered by Amanda’s unwavering focus on her own goals and affections. Their eventual relationship was rewarding, featuring a few steamy scenes that surprised me with their intensity and a heartfelt conclusion that pleased me.
The climactic scenes were fast-paced and chaotic, with Amanda and Thornton facing split-second decisions and grave danger. While the chaos occasionally muddled the narrative, the emotional stakes remained high, and I appreciated that Amanda played an active role in saving the day. The epilogue provided a satisfying wrap-up, showing the pair happily together and tying off key side plots while hinting at future adventures in the series.
In all, The Golden Spider is a richly layered gaslamp fantasy with an inventive setting, a clever and determined heroine, and a romance that strikes the right balance of tension and warmth. Whether you’re drawn to steampunk gadgets, suspenseful mysteries, or slow-burn love stories, this book offers it all.
**Thank you to the author for the audiobook. All opinions are my own.**
Instagram: @librisinetenebris
In Victorian London, Lady Amanda blackmails her way into a medical school to seek help perfecting her clockwork spider, capable of spinning artificial nerves. When the invention falls into the hands of a murderous spy, she and her enigmatic professor Lord Thornton must navigate secrets, spies, and forbidden attraction to stop a killer.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
The dual narration by Zara Hampton-Brown and Timothy Campbell brought The Golden Spider to life in ways I hadn't anticipated. Their seamless transitions between accents added depth to the world of gaslamp fantasy, and their performances enriched the story immeasurably. Zara Hampton-Brown, in particular, deserves high praise—her portrayal of characters beyond Amanda was so varied and convincing that I genuinely thought there were additional narrators. Her male voices, often a challenging feat for female narrators, were impeccable.
Anne Renwick accomplished the near-impossible: she made me enjoy both a professor-student romance and a STEM-focused heroine, two tropes I’ve actively disliked in the past. Lady Amanda is no damsel in distress—she’s clever, resourceful, and refreshingly ambitious, qualities that drive the story forward. Her passion for science, driven by her desire to help her brother recover from his injuries, was both compelling and relatable. On the other hand, Lord Thornton, while undeniably swoon-worthy, tested my patience more than once with his gruff demeanour and occasional foolishness. Thankfully, their romance felt balanced, with much of the focus on their professional collaboration, mutual respect, and intellectual chemistry, rather than an overemphasis on power dynamics.
The steampunk Victorian setting was a delight, bursting with intricate gadgets and imaginative details. The clockwork spider, capable of spinning artificial nerves, was not only a marvel of the genre but also a key plot driver. The scientific jargon and medical advancements woven into the story added authenticity, and while some passages were dense, they never felt out of place.
The plot itself struck a nice balance between romance and mystery. The danger posed by a murderous spy experimenting on human subjects was gripping, and the twists and turns of espionage kept me hooked. The apparent reveal of the villain made me doubt my initial guess, a rarity for me in mysteries. Additionally, the Gypsy characters and their traditions were portrayed with nuance and respect, adding a rich cultural layer to the story.
The romance was a slow burn, building steadily with moments of tension and forced proximity that kept me invested. While Thornton’s jealousy over Amanda’s suitor and his opposition to marriage sometimes felt excessive, it was tempered by Amanda’s unwavering focus on her own goals and affections. Their eventual relationship was rewarding, featuring a few steamy scenes that surprised me with their intensity and a heartfelt conclusion that pleased me.
The climactic scenes were fast-paced and chaotic, with Amanda and Thornton facing split-second decisions and grave danger. While the chaos occasionally muddled the narrative, the emotional stakes remained high, and I appreciated that Amanda played an active role in saving the day. The epilogue provided a satisfying wrap-up, showing the pair happily together and tying off key side plots while hinting at future adventures in the series.
In all, The Golden Spider is a richly layered gaslamp fantasy with an inventive setting, a clever and determined heroine, and a romance that strikes the right balance of tension and warmth. Whether you’re drawn to steampunk gadgets, suspenseful mysteries, or slow-burn love stories, this book offers it all.
**Thank you to the author for the audiobook. All opinions are my own.**
Instagram: @librisinetenebris
November 13, 2024
Excellent steam punk romance
Fantastic storytelling, a well-paced adventure, and a steamy romance all rolled into one! For lovers of steam punk and science geeks of all stripes, Anne Renwick crafts a captivating cast of characters and offers a unique vision of a world of clock-work technologies, gypsy lore, spies, betrayal, and mystery that had me turning the pages and second guessing who the real villains might be. I can't wait to start the next book!
Fantastic storytelling, a well-paced adventure, and a steamy romance all rolled into one! For lovers of steam punk and science geeks of all stripes, Anne Renwick crafts a captivating cast of characters and offers a unique vision of a world of clock-work technologies, gypsy lore, spies, betrayal, and mystery that had me turning the pages and second guessing who the real villains might be. I can't wait to start the next book!
November 29, 2022
More like 3.5. Everything about this book is "fine"--the narration is smooth, the story is "fine"--it just is sorta forgettable. I read this two days ago and I can't remember the character's names. The Steampunk elements also sorta seem incidental.
But is a pleasant listen, and a good distraction.
But is a pleasant listen, and a good distraction.
May 6, 2024
I listened to this on Audible and I really, really enjoyed it.
It was a really cute story between the two characters. And I love how they went from being at odds to their own version of HEA.
Also...steampunk with krakens.
What more can I say?
The only thing I don't understand is....where is the elemental part of it?
I thought there would be magic? What am I missing?
It was a really cute story between the two characters. And I love how they went from being at odds to their own version of HEA.
Also...steampunk with krakens.
What more can I say?
The only thing I don't understand is....where is the elemental part of it?
I thought there would be magic? What am I missing?
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