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Fleet of Wonders
Not yet published
Expected 16 Feb 27Babel meets Powerless in this pulse-pounding, romantic YA fantasy, the first in a duology, following two thieves who con their way into a deadly naval competition at the heart of a ruthless empire.
In the slums of the Ikarian Empire, mixed-race best friends Eliza and Jules are barely scraping by. So when they see an opportunity to compete in the Fleet of Wonders, they seize it—even if they’ll have to con their way aboard under false identities.
The Fleet of Wonders will pit the nation’s brightest young minds against each other as they race to invent a weapon deadly enough to defend Ikaria in a brewing war. The victors will win life-changing riches . . . if they can fend off their opponents’ cut-throat attacks.
But Eliza and Jules won’t be working alone. They’ll be sailing alongside the darkly alluring heir to a factory empire; an imperious earl’s son; a sweet, bookish medical student; and a lethally magnetic aristocrat with secrets of her own. Tensions are high, and only grow higher as Eliza and Jules each become entangled in romances that put their false identities at risk.
It’s not long before they realize that chasing the gold and glory of the Fleet may mean betraying their parents’ homeland by serving the very empire that conquered it. As the competition heats up, Eliza and Jules find themselves at odds, each faced with painful questions of how far they’re willing to go to win . . . and what—or who—they’re willing to sacrifice.
In the slums of the Ikarian Empire, mixed-race best friends Eliza and Jules are barely scraping by. So when they see an opportunity to compete in the Fleet of Wonders, they seize it—even if they’ll have to con their way aboard under false identities.
The Fleet of Wonders will pit the nation’s brightest young minds against each other as they race to invent a weapon deadly enough to defend Ikaria in a brewing war. The victors will win life-changing riches . . . if they can fend off their opponents’ cut-throat attacks.
But Eliza and Jules won’t be working alone. They’ll be sailing alongside the darkly alluring heir to a factory empire; an imperious earl’s son; a sweet, bookish medical student; and a lethally magnetic aristocrat with secrets of her own. Tensions are high, and only grow higher as Eliza and Jules each become entangled in romances that put their false identities at risk.
It’s not long before they realize that chasing the gold and glory of the Fleet may mean betraying their parents’ homeland by serving the very empire that conquered it. As the competition heats up, Eliza and Jules find themselves at odds, each faced with painful questions of how far they’re willing to go to win . . . and what—or who—they’re willing to sacrifice.
416 pages, Hardcover
Expected publication February 16, 2027
About the author
Erin Hànyù Lynch
1 book28 followersErin Hànyù Lynch was born and raised in New York, where she cultivated the art of daydreaming. A recipient of the Mellon Mays research fellowship, she graduated summa cum laude from the University of Chicago with a degree in the history of science. When she isn’t writing, she can be found thinking about writing, talking to her cat, or scribbling in the smallest handwriting you’ve ever seen. (No, really. She fit all of her high school calculus homework onto 10 sheets of paper.) Fleet of Wonders is her first novel. Author photo © Hillary Caltagirone.
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Review of advance copy received from Author
Hi everyone! Erin here :) Before I vanish from my Goodreads page, I wanted to share a few things you’ll find in Fleet of Wonders, my debut novel (CWs at the end):
💫 Asian diaspora rep
🌈 Bi love triangles
⚔️ Fantasy setting inspired by Victorian England & late Qing dynasty China
❤️🔥 Slowww burn…one of Eliza’s love interests doesn’t get a kiss until book 2, but when it happens… 🔥
🗝️ Hidden passageways, secret rooms, & devious riddles
✨ Magic rooted in metal & technology
🩸 Betrayal!!!
🌶️ YA-appropriate spice in book 2 (I told you: slowww burn!)
Most importantly, though, this is a book that deals with race, empire, and diaspora. In these respects, it is a book deeply informed by real life—not only by my own life, growing up as the descendant of Chinese immigrants, but by the many lives embodied in history. For those who don’t get the chance to read my author’s note at the very end, the story behind Eliza’s and Jules’s fathers is soberingly true. During World War II, when hostilities left the Allied nations short on able-bodied men to crew the ships of the Merchant Marine, the British government formed the Chinese Merchant Seamen’s Pool: an organization to recruit Chinese migrant sailors for the task. These Chinese men transported food and munitions through deadly wartime waters, receiving lower wages than their white counterparts, and many of them married English women and began to raise mixed-race children during the war.
But after the war ended, the Chinese sailors were not celebrated as heroes. Instead, the British government officially labeled them an “undesirable element”—and deported them all.
Today, there’s a memorial commemorating the sacrifices of these men in Liverpool. There’s also a website founded by some of the mixed-race children of these deported Chinese fathers. But this atrocious injustice—and the ways in which it is emblematic of the broader othering that the Asian diasporic community continues to face—is still not widely remembered enough. It’s histories like this one that I hope Fleet of Wonders can help bring to light.
There are many, many more histories I’ve folded into this book: What I’ve called the Joy War is closely modeled on the First Opium War; the thematic connection between technology and empire is inspired by the “Self-Strengthening Movement 自強運動” or “Westernization Movement 洋務運動” in China; and the details of the city of Coketown (named for a Dickens setting) are informed by The Condition of the Working Class in England, Engels’ 1845 study of early industrialization. (Lots of reading went into the writing of this novel.) But since I’ve already written an academic thesis—that’s part of the inspiration behind Fleet!—it’s my hope that this book can accomplish something beyond a work of pure historical research: To ask direct questions about today. To challenge us to recognize the cruel and deeply unfair choices that the world tries to corner us into making. And to inspire us to find ways out of those choices—and to instead choose connection and community and justice.
Fleet of Wonders does channel many of my own negative emotions—hurt, fear, anger. The injustices and exclusion Eliza and Jules face are injustices and exclusion I’ve faced; the questions Eliza and Jules wrestle with are questions I’ve asked the universe again and again, despairing when it never answered. Part of what I hope this book can offer readers—especially marginalized readers—is a cathartic opportunity to feel seen and acknowledged in their rightful sadness, anxiety, and rage.
But I also hope Fleet of Wonders can help guide readers toward the hope I eventually found. It took me some time to realize this, but in a system that tries to make us believe we must choose between our morals and our survival, living isn’t about finding answers. It’s about penning those answers yourself. It’s about staring down a fork in the road, deciding you don’t like either option, and walking off the path into the weeds and the rocks and the mud.
In that vein, I want Fleet to emphasize the fact that purpose, belonging, and community are rarely “found.” More often, they’re carefully, painstakingly made. Yes, that’s terrifying. But it’s also a good reason to be optimistic. Because as long as that’s true, we don’t have to sit back and take what we’re given. Like Eliza and Jules, we can invent something new.
CWs: violence, blood, war, burning, chronic medical conditions, illness, racism, hunger and food insecurity, child abuse (off-page, recollected), discussions of addiction, forced drugging, non-consensual kissing / SA (not r*pe), death of a parent (off-page), grief, and deportation of family (off-page).
💫 Asian diaspora rep
🌈 Bi love triangles
⚔️ Fantasy setting inspired by Victorian England & late Qing dynasty China
❤️🔥 Slowww burn…one of Eliza’s love interests doesn’t get a kiss until book 2, but when it happens… 🔥
🗝️ Hidden passageways, secret rooms, & devious riddles
✨ Magic rooted in metal & technology
🩸 Betrayal!!!
🌶️ YA-appropriate spice in book 2 (I told you: slowww burn!)
Most importantly, though, this is a book that deals with race, empire, and diaspora. In these respects, it is a book deeply informed by real life—not only by my own life, growing up as the descendant of Chinese immigrants, but by the many lives embodied in history. For those who don’t get the chance to read my author’s note at the very end, the story behind Eliza’s and Jules’s fathers is soberingly true. During World War II, when hostilities left the Allied nations short on able-bodied men to crew the ships of the Merchant Marine, the British government formed the Chinese Merchant Seamen’s Pool: an organization to recruit Chinese migrant sailors for the task. These Chinese men transported food and munitions through deadly wartime waters, receiving lower wages than their white counterparts, and many of them married English women and began to raise mixed-race children during the war.
But after the war ended, the Chinese sailors were not celebrated as heroes. Instead, the British government officially labeled them an “undesirable element”—and deported them all.
Today, there’s a memorial commemorating the sacrifices of these men in Liverpool. There’s also a website founded by some of the mixed-race children of these deported Chinese fathers. But this atrocious injustice—and the ways in which it is emblematic of the broader othering that the Asian diasporic community continues to face—is still not widely remembered enough. It’s histories like this one that I hope Fleet of Wonders can help bring to light.
There are many, many more histories I’ve folded into this book: What I’ve called the Joy War is closely modeled on the First Opium War; the thematic connection between technology and empire is inspired by the “Self-Strengthening Movement 自強運動” or “Westernization Movement 洋務運動” in China; and the details of the city of Coketown (named for a Dickens setting) are informed by The Condition of the Working Class in England, Engels’ 1845 study of early industrialization. (Lots of reading went into the writing of this novel.) But since I’ve already written an academic thesis—that’s part of the inspiration behind Fleet!—it’s my hope that this book can accomplish something beyond a work of pure historical research: To ask direct questions about today. To challenge us to recognize the cruel and deeply unfair choices that the world tries to corner us into making. And to inspire us to find ways out of those choices—and to instead choose connection and community and justice.
Fleet of Wonders does channel many of my own negative emotions—hurt, fear, anger. The injustices and exclusion Eliza and Jules face are injustices and exclusion I’ve faced; the questions Eliza and Jules wrestle with are questions I’ve asked the universe again and again, despairing when it never answered. Part of what I hope this book can offer readers—especially marginalized readers—is a cathartic opportunity to feel seen and acknowledged in their rightful sadness, anxiety, and rage.
But I also hope Fleet of Wonders can help guide readers toward the hope I eventually found. It took me some time to realize this, but in a system that tries to make us believe we must choose between our morals and our survival, living isn’t about finding answers. It’s about penning those answers yourself. It’s about staring down a fork in the road, deciding you don’t like either option, and walking off the path into the weeds and the rocks and the mud.
In that vein, I want Fleet to emphasize the fact that purpose, belonging, and community are rarely “found.” More often, they’re carefully, painstakingly made. Yes, that’s terrifying. But it’s also a good reason to be optimistic. Because as long as that’s true, we don’t have to sit back and take what we’re given. Like Eliza and Jules, we can invent something new.
CWs: violence, blood, war, burning, chronic medical conditions, illness, racism, hunger and food insecurity, child abuse (off-page, recollected), discussions of addiction, forced drugging, non-consensual kissing / SA (not r*pe), death of a parent (off-page), grief, and deportation of family (off-page).
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
I am SO glad I preordered this book because I want it to live on my shelf forever as a YA fantasy favorite! This book was the perfect blend of fantastic character development, intricate worldbuilding, and impressive emotional depth. The only disappointment I have from this read is that I have to wait until next year to have it on my shelf!
I’ll start with Jules and Eliza. They are unflinchingly honest, complex characters who you truly love and empathize with from the opening pages. I was repeatedly impressed that the author never shied away from making each and every character flawed as they struggled with the bitter unfairness of the world they were born into. I loved the bond between Jules and Eliza and how distinctive their journeys were. Jules’ concern for living up to his mother’s hopes for him and being a good, peaceful person warred with Eliza’s desperation to be accepted, respected, and powerful in a world that had constantly denied her these basic rights. I thought this was such a well-rounded group of characters who constantly surprised me. I love a good group character dynamic and this had everything I love–banter, secrets, and slow-burn romance.
I was blown away by the worldbuilding that felt so real and reminiscent of our own world, yet so creative in its execution. The scientific and metal-based magic system was unlike anything I had seen before, and I really loved the way it influenced the societal injustices of the world. The impacts of colonialism, racism, and anti-immigrant sentiments were seamlessly incorporated into the story, and I loved the way the author showed a variety of characters from different backgrounds wrestling with their role and responsibility in Ikaria. Lynch did not shy away from making the characters ask tough questions and determine their own levels of culpability. It’s incredible the way books can expand empathy and knowledge, and I think Fleet of Wonders does a brilliant job of both inspiring the reader to examine the unjust systems in which we live while also giving us reason to hope. This book was so much fun to read, but it also has such important messages that I think resonate particularly well with the imperialist and anti-immigrant attitudes too common in our world today.
There is no way this review can capture how much I truly loved this book! If you had been near me while reading it, you would have heard me constantly gush to whoever would listen that it was amazing. Do not miss this book! If you’ve been wondering if you should preorder or request an ARC, it is completely worth it!
I am SO glad I preordered this book because I want it to live on my shelf forever as a YA fantasy favorite! This book was the perfect blend of fantastic character development, intricate worldbuilding, and impressive emotional depth. The only disappointment I have from this read is that I have to wait until next year to have it on my shelf!
I’ll start with Jules and Eliza. They are unflinchingly honest, complex characters who you truly love and empathize with from the opening pages. I was repeatedly impressed that the author never shied away from making each and every character flawed as they struggled with the bitter unfairness of the world they were born into. I loved the bond between Jules and Eliza and how distinctive their journeys were. Jules’ concern for living up to his mother’s hopes for him and being a good, peaceful person warred with Eliza’s desperation to be accepted, respected, and powerful in a world that had constantly denied her these basic rights. I thought this was such a well-rounded group of characters who constantly surprised me. I love a good group character dynamic and this had everything I love–banter, secrets, and slow-burn romance.
I was blown away by the worldbuilding that felt so real and reminiscent of our own world, yet so creative in its execution. The scientific and metal-based magic system was unlike anything I had seen before, and I really loved the way it influenced the societal injustices of the world. The impacts of colonialism, racism, and anti-immigrant sentiments were seamlessly incorporated into the story, and I loved the way the author showed a variety of characters from different backgrounds wrestling with their role and responsibility in Ikaria. Lynch did not shy away from making the characters ask tough questions and determine their own levels of culpability. It’s incredible the way books can expand empathy and knowledge, and I think Fleet of Wonders does a brilliant job of both inspiring the reader to examine the unjust systems in which we live while also giving us reason to hope. This book was so much fun to read, but it also has such important messages that I think resonate particularly well with the imperialist and anti-immigrant attitudes too common in our world today.
There is no way this review can capture how much I truly loved this book! If you had been near me while reading it, you would have heard me constantly gush to whoever would listen that it was amazing. Do not miss this book! If you’ve been wondering if you should preorder or request an ARC, it is completely worth it!
June 25, 2026
History comes alive in this book of war and magic. Twists and turns, friends that are family, and unlikely allies. This book shines a light for those that know the commonly not taught history, at the same time this book is a beautifully written sea adventure. If I could give this book 6 stars I would.
Thanks,
Noodlebug
Thanks,
Noodlebug
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Steampunk nautical tournament with riddles? Sign me up now
Fleet of Wonders is the first book in a YA fantasy duology featuring adventure on the high seas, tournaments with puzzles to solve, and fiery character dynamics. I devoured this book and will be anxiously waiting for book 2 because I'm really excited to see where the story goes. The worldbuilding and characters reminded me of Tara Sim's Timekeeper trilogy, though I also got similar vibes to R.F. Kuang's Babel when it came to the characters and commentary on colonization, racism, and exploitation of minorities. The magic system was fun and unique, and I'm intrigued to see if the boundaries are tested in the next book.
Eliza and Jules are barely scraping by in the slums, so when they spot a chance to join a naval competition involving fifty battleships and a race for a deadly weapon, they take it. After sneaking onto the Belladonna, Eliza and Jules must keep their secrets hidden while also navigating the tenuous relationships with their crewmates and solving puzzles to win the race...only the price of victory may be higher than either of them may be willing to pay. The plot is fairly simple, as the characters are all relatively trapped on the ship, and their goal is to solve the puzzles and defend their vessel from their opponents. Still, the puzzles were engaging, and a handful of action scenes were interspersed throughout to keep me entertained. Even when the plot slowed down (like the sort of random gala scene...not complaining because I love the trope, though), the tension between the characters kept me hooked, and there were always more secrets to uncover. The stakes were always high, the ending was twisty, and I'll be reading the next one the moment I get my hands on it. I will mention that the ending sets up for a sequel, so I don't know that it's satisfying if you end here, but I expect that many readers will be excited for book 2 anyway.
I love a complicated, messy crew of characters who start to border on found family vibes. Liza, the FMC, is that perfect mix of ambitious and passionate. I loved seeing her grow into her power (smithy, aka metalbending), and I'm super excited to see how her arc continues in book 2. She's messy and nuanced, which made her an intriguing protagonist to follow. Jules, the MMC, is just as lovable; he's charming and clever, and he cares deeply about his friends. His connection with Suman was sweet, and I liked seeing him overcome his past struggles. The side characters were just as fun as the protagonists, especially because they're mostly misfits and outcasts. Charlotte is an aristocrat who loves her saber, and her mysterious origins continue to intrigue me even now. She's a quiet but solid presence on the cast, and I'm looking forward to seeing more of her in the future. Suman, the physician, is book-smart in a way that complements Jules, and his care for all of the crewmates was endearing. The other two crewmates were a bit harder to love, but only due to their messiness, and they were still entertaining to read about. Pierre is the heir to the man who owns the factories Liza and Jules worked in, and he has his own fiery feelings for Eliza. Their dynamics were complicated, which made them interesting, and I found Pierre to be one of those dangerously enticing characters. Arthur, another spoiled noble, had a bit less page time than the others, so I didn't have as many feelings about him, but he added a lot of tension to the plot, which I appreciated. The differing levels of "outcast" on the crew reminded me of the cast of Babel, and I'm really looking forward to seeing how their dynamics shift in book 2.
Fleet of Wonders is the first book in a YA fantasy series, perfect for fans of Tara Sim's Timekeeper and Amber Chen's Of Jade and Dragons.
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for the free e-ARC!
4.5/5
Fleet of Wonders is the first book in a YA fantasy duology featuring adventure on the high seas, tournaments with puzzles to solve, and fiery character dynamics. I devoured this book and will be anxiously waiting for book 2 because I'm really excited to see where the story goes. The worldbuilding and characters reminded me of Tara Sim's Timekeeper trilogy, though I also got similar vibes to R.F. Kuang's Babel when it came to the characters and commentary on colonization, racism, and exploitation of minorities. The magic system was fun and unique, and I'm intrigued to see if the boundaries are tested in the next book.
Eliza and Jules are barely scraping by in the slums, so when they spot a chance to join a naval competition involving fifty battleships and a race for a deadly weapon, they take it. After sneaking onto the Belladonna, Eliza and Jules must keep their secrets hidden while also navigating the tenuous relationships with their crewmates and solving puzzles to win the race...only the price of victory may be higher than either of them may be willing to pay. The plot is fairly simple, as the characters are all relatively trapped on the ship, and their goal is to solve the puzzles and defend their vessel from their opponents. Still, the puzzles were engaging, and a handful of action scenes were interspersed throughout to keep me entertained. Even when the plot slowed down (like the sort of random gala scene...not complaining because I love the trope, though), the tension between the characters kept me hooked, and there were always more secrets to uncover. The stakes were always high, the ending was twisty, and I'll be reading the next one the moment I get my hands on it. I will mention that the ending sets up for a sequel, so I don't know that it's satisfying if you end here, but I expect that many readers will be excited for book 2 anyway.
I love a complicated, messy crew of characters who start to border on found family vibes. Liza, the FMC, is that perfect mix of ambitious and passionate. I loved seeing her grow into her power (smithy, aka metalbending), and I'm super excited to see how her arc continues in book 2. She's messy and nuanced, which made her an intriguing protagonist to follow. Jules, the MMC, is just as lovable; he's charming and clever, and he cares deeply about his friends. His connection with Suman was sweet, and I liked seeing him overcome his past struggles. The side characters were just as fun as the protagonists, especially because they're mostly misfits and outcasts. Charlotte is an aristocrat who loves her saber, and her mysterious origins continue to intrigue me even now. She's a quiet but solid presence on the cast, and I'm looking forward to seeing more of her in the future. Suman, the physician, is book-smart in a way that complements Jules, and his care for all of the crewmates was endearing. The other two crewmates were a bit harder to love, but only due to their messiness, and they were still entertaining to read about. Pierre is the heir to the man who owns the factories Liza and Jules worked in, and he has his own fiery feelings for Eliza. Their dynamics were complicated, which made them interesting, and I found Pierre to be one of those dangerously enticing characters. Arthur, another spoiled noble, had a bit less page time than the others, so I didn't have as many feelings about him, but he added a lot of tension to the plot, which I appreciated. The differing levels of "outcast" on the crew reminded me of the cast of Babel, and I'm really looking forward to seeing how their dynamics shift in book 2.
Fleet of Wonders is the first book in a YA fantasy series, perfect for fans of Tara Sim's Timekeeper and Amber Chen's Of Jade and Dragons.
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for the free e-ARC!
4.5/5
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
2.5 stars
Fleet of Wonders is a book that you can tell is a book from the heart. It weaves heavy topics of colonialism and diaspora into a fictional story about two biracial teenagers who will do what it takes to survive. Tasked with making weapons for the empire, the reward for Eliza and Jules will be life-changing - but at what cost? Complicity is a slippery slope, and as the book goes on, our main characters have to grapple with the morality of the indirect consequences of their actions.
This book had some really good foundational ideas, but the execution didn’t personally work for me. The emotional pay off moments unfortunately did not land because every secondary character was uninteresting, not fleshed out, or both. I also found Eliza and Jules’ internal conflicts very repetitive; multiple times they would ruminate on the same thing and talk themselves in a circle. Working through their moral dilemmas should’ve been better paced throughout the entire book to avoid this, which also would’ve made the social commentary feel more seamless. As for world building, I felt like I could not tell you much about the different nations other than what I could glean from context clues about their real life counterparts.
This book could have been a faster paced, more action packed version of Babel, but it didn’t exactly hit the mark. However, there is still a lot of merit to be found in these pages. Setting this book during a deadly race among ships filled with inventors was an interesting premise, and readers who like decoding riddles and puzzles will enjoy this aspect of the novel.
Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for this arc in exchange for an honest review.
Fleet of Wonders is a book that you can tell is a book from the heart. It weaves heavy topics of colonialism and diaspora into a fictional story about two biracial teenagers who will do what it takes to survive. Tasked with making weapons for the empire, the reward for Eliza and Jules will be life-changing - but at what cost? Complicity is a slippery slope, and as the book goes on, our main characters have to grapple with the morality of the indirect consequences of their actions.
This book had some really good foundational ideas, but the execution didn’t personally work for me. The emotional pay off moments unfortunately did not land because every secondary character was uninteresting, not fleshed out, or both. I also found Eliza and Jules’ internal conflicts very repetitive; multiple times they would ruminate on the same thing and talk themselves in a circle. Working through their moral dilemmas should’ve been better paced throughout the entire book to avoid this, which also would’ve made the social commentary feel more seamless. As for world building, I felt like I could not tell you much about the different nations other than what I could glean from context clues about their real life counterparts.
This book could have been a faster paced, more action packed version of Babel, but it didn’t exactly hit the mark. However, there is still a lot of merit to be found in these pages. Setting this book during a deadly race among ships filled with inventors was an interesting premise, and readers who like decoding riddles and puzzles will enjoy this aspect of the novel.
Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for this arc in exchange for an honest review.
Review of advance copy received from Edelweiss+
E ARC provided by Edelweiss Plus
Review of advance copy received from Author
I thoroughly enjoyed reading Erin's first novel, Fleet of Wonders. It hooks and thrills you with action, well developed characters, and a thoughtful world building that puts other novels in the same genre to crying, sniveling shame. Once I picked up the novel, I desperately wanted to see what would happen to our heroes and the fascinating cast of characters they find themselves allied with.
There is an undeniable skill of description in the story, I was enthralled with all of the vivid locations and intricate mechanisms of this steampunk, historical-fantasy world. It is a feast for the visual imagination.
Very light spoilers below in my critiques.
That all being said, the novel leaves off on an outstanding turn of events that has me absolutely salivating for the conclusion to the duo-ology. (And this book hasn't even come out yet!)
There's one major piece of praise that I haven't yet gotten to touch on, and this is a little personal to me. Like Erin, I grew up reading books with white heroes and heroines taking the lime light. Most stories are centered around a white experience. Families that have spent generations in the settings they exist in, married to environment around them, they struggle in ways that I can relate to, but also don't struggle in ways that I can't relate to. I think I got used to seeing that kind of representation in novels and finding a way to relate to those stories despite how my own background differs. I've always thought that the magic of storytelling is to make every story feel specific and universal at the same time, but reading Fleet of Wonders made me realize what I was really missing out on: a story that felt specific enough to me that I didn't have to rely on the universality of story to fall in love with and relate to the characters.
I love Fleet of Wonders for the care and thoughtfulness that Erin has put into the world and the characters that make it feel alive and specific to my own experiences. It easily breaks the mold of the common "immigrant child" tropes and extends into new, groundbreaking territory- something I find both insightful and inspiring. Erin considers stereotypes, racial prejudices, the intersection of class and race, xenophobia, and so much more with an refreshing kind of new-ness, maybe it's the fantastical setting, the fact that the challenges our heroes face are drawn from a variety of historical events, the lived experience of the author seeping through in a genuine way- I can't really put my finger on what exactly I find so truthful and touching about the way this story transposes the asian-diasporic experience, all I can say is that I really appreciated getting to read it and relate to it.
In my critique, I said that the author still has room to grow, that I didn't think this story was perfect. But that shouldn't be a deterrent in picking up Fleet of Wonders. In fact, I would say that it only makes me even more excited to see what Erin accomplishes next- what great strides will be taken in the next novel!
Write on! - Caz
There is an undeniable skill of description in the story, I was enthralled with all of the vivid locations and intricate mechanisms of this steampunk, historical-fantasy world. It is a feast for the visual imagination.
Very light spoilers below in my critiques.
That all being said, the novel leaves off on an outstanding turn of events that has me absolutely salivating for the conclusion to the duo-ology. (And this book hasn't even come out yet!)
There's one major piece of praise that I haven't yet gotten to touch on, and this is a little personal to me. Like Erin, I grew up reading books with white heroes and heroines taking the lime light. Most stories are centered around a white experience. Families that have spent generations in the settings they exist in, married to environment around them, they struggle in ways that I can relate to, but also don't struggle in ways that I can't relate to. I think I got used to seeing that kind of representation in novels and finding a way to relate to those stories despite how my own background differs. I've always thought that the magic of storytelling is to make every story feel specific and universal at the same time, but reading Fleet of Wonders made me realize what I was really missing out on: a story that felt specific enough to me that I didn't have to rely on the universality of story to fall in love with and relate to the characters.
I love Fleet of Wonders for the care and thoughtfulness that Erin has put into the world and the characters that make it feel alive and specific to my own experiences. It easily breaks the mold of the common "immigrant child" tropes and extends into new, groundbreaking territory- something I find both insightful and inspiring. Erin considers stereotypes, racial prejudices, the intersection of class and race, xenophobia, and so much more with an refreshing kind of new-ness, maybe it's the fantastical setting, the fact that the challenges our heroes face are drawn from a variety of historical events, the lived experience of the author seeping through in a genuine way- I can't really put my finger on what exactly I find so truthful and touching about the way this story transposes the asian-diasporic experience, all I can say is that I really appreciated getting to read it and relate to it.
In my critique, I said that the author still has room to grow, that I didn't think this story was perfect. But that shouldn't be a deterrent in picking up Fleet of Wonders. In fact, I would say that it only makes me even more excited to see what Erin accomplishes next- what great strides will be taken in the next novel!
Write on! - Caz
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
This reminded me so much of One Piece, funnily enough, mixed with ATLA and the steampunk atmosphere of Arcane, which are all very much plus points for me. The whole setting had this adventurous, larger-than-life feeling that made it ridiculously easy to get invested. The Fleet itself was such a fun concept, with all the fantastical ships, dangerous rivalries, inventions, and constant sense that everything could fall apart at any moment.
The prose was beautiful, and there was CONSTANT action, which I absolutely live for. There was always something happening, whether it was the competition, the secrets, the betrayals, the political tensions, or the characters trying to figure out who they could actually trust. The pacing kept me hooked, and I loved how the story balanced the larger spectacle of the Fleet with the more personal struggles of the characters.
And the characters were genuinely one of my favourite parts. Eliza was such a compelling protagonist. I loved watching her navigate everything she had been forced to survive while still trying to build a better life for herself and Jules. She was clever, determined, and resourceful, but she also had so much anger and vulnerability beneath the surface. Her developing magical abilities and the way she had to decide what she was willing to embrace made her arc especially interesting.
Jules was just as important to the emotional heart of the story. His deteriorating health and the pressure he felt to survive made his choices feel so understandable, and I loved how much he cared for Eliza despite everything they were going through. His relationship with Suman was also incredibly sweet. Suman was such a lovely character: bookish, kind, intelligent, and genuinely compassionate. I really enjoyed seeing Jules find someone who made him feel cared for and gave him a new sense of hope, even as the secrets between them created so much tension.
Pierre was probably one of the most entertaining characters for me. He had that imperious, arrogant, alluring energy, but there was clearly so much more going on beneath the surface. His history with the factory Eliza and Jules escaped from made their dynamic even more complicated, and I loved the push and pull between them. The fact that he could bend metal to his will was also such a cool ability, and his relationship with Eliza had so much tension.
And then there was Charlotte, who was dangerous, enigmatic, and completely captivating. I loved how difficult she was to read and how much mystery surrounded her. She had this deadly charm that made every scene with her feel charged, especially with the added tension between her and Eliza. Her skill with a sabre only made her more intimidating, and I was always interested in figuring out what she actually wanted.
I also really loved how much the book had to say about colonialism, empire, race, and diaspora. Eliza and Jules’ identities and histories added so much depth to the story, especially as they became increasingly torn between the empire offering them a chance at wealth and security and their ties to the nation that had been conquered. I love when fantasy takes the time to explore these things instead of treating its world as completely removed from the realities that inspired it.
Overall, beautiful prose, great characters, constant action, a fantastic atmosphere, complicated relationships, and a story with plenty to say. Very much my kind of fantasy.
The prose was beautiful, and there was CONSTANT action, which I absolutely live for. There was always something happening, whether it was the competition, the secrets, the betrayals, the political tensions, or the characters trying to figure out who they could actually trust. The pacing kept me hooked, and I loved how the story balanced the larger spectacle of the Fleet with the more personal struggles of the characters.
And the characters were genuinely one of my favourite parts. Eliza was such a compelling protagonist. I loved watching her navigate everything she had been forced to survive while still trying to build a better life for herself and Jules. She was clever, determined, and resourceful, but she also had so much anger and vulnerability beneath the surface. Her developing magical abilities and the way she had to decide what she was willing to embrace made her arc especially interesting.
Jules was just as important to the emotional heart of the story. His deteriorating health and the pressure he felt to survive made his choices feel so understandable, and I loved how much he cared for Eliza despite everything they were going through. His relationship with Suman was also incredibly sweet. Suman was such a lovely character: bookish, kind, intelligent, and genuinely compassionate. I really enjoyed seeing Jules find someone who made him feel cared for and gave him a new sense of hope, even as the secrets between them created so much tension.
Pierre was probably one of the most entertaining characters for me. He had that imperious, arrogant, alluring energy, but there was clearly so much more going on beneath the surface. His history with the factory Eliza and Jules escaped from made their dynamic even more complicated, and I loved the push and pull between them. The fact that he could bend metal to his will was also such a cool ability, and his relationship with Eliza had so much tension.
And then there was Charlotte, who was dangerous, enigmatic, and completely captivating. I loved how difficult she was to read and how much mystery surrounded her. She had this deadly charm that made every scene with her feel charged, especially with the added tension between her and Eliza. Her skill with a sabre only made her more intimidating, and I was always interested in figuring out what she actually wanted.
I also really loved how much the book had to say about colonialism, empire, race, and diaspora. Eliza and Jules’ identities and histories added so much depth to the story, especially as they became increasingly torn between the empire offering them a chance at wealth and security and their ties to the nation that had been conquered. I love when fantasy takes the time to explore these things instead of treating its world as completely removed from the realities that inspired it.
Overall, beautiful prose, great characters, constant action, a fantastic atmosphere, complicated relationships, and a story with plenty to say. Very much my kind of fantasy.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for allowing me early access as an ARC reader.
This book is perfectly fine. The plot itself is interesting and the pacing works really well, but I do feel there are a few glaring issues (to me).
The first is (major spoiler)
The second is how strongly Lynch takes from IRL history. I wish it was less obvious where every country drew influence from. Yes, I get it's historical, but it felt more like reading a history book where someone spelled China and India and England very wrong. I can think of two places where it "lore dumps" but the "lore" is just World History 101 with country names replaced.
Third is just how useless the other characters are. (minor spoilers)
Fourth is pacing. Yes, I know I said the pacing was good. And it was! ...through the plot. There were several instances where Eliza or Jules would go off into their own world mid conversation. And I don't mean a 1 paragraph "She realized X Y Z" but a page or two or even three. I was reading on my phone, so I don't know how well the pages lined up, but there was a conversation towards the end where the dialogue was interrupted for three whole pages. I forgot what we were talking about at that point.
Lastly, the internal conflict. Yes, I get it. Jules has Eliza issues, and Eliza has mommy issues. This crops up frequently and in very small doses, and the same complaints and concerns every time. And sometimes, these complaints pop up mid conversation for a whole page! Both Eliza and Jules could have used some more development into their complaints rather than the same 3 things over and over again (as in expand upon the issues, give more examples, not spiders and pokers and coughing).
While these items listed have thoroughly annoyed me, overall, I did actually enjoy the book. I'd probably even be interested in reading book 2 in the far future. I'd recommend this book to people who want something more into character development than action, although there is plenty of action. It just definitely leaned more into character growth than physical growth,
So yeah. It was a good time. I just would have preferred a bit of slimming around the conversations, some more involvement of the side characters, and some more originality in the world building.
3/5, recommend!
This book is perfectly fine. The plot itself is interesting and the pacing works really well, but I do feel there are a few glaring issues (to me).
The first is (major spoiler)
The second is how strongly Lynch takes from IRL history. I wish it was less obvious where every country drew influence from. Yes, I get it's historical, but it felt more like reading a history book where someone spelled China and India and England very wrong. I can think of two places where it "lore dumps" but the "lore" is just World History 101 with country names replaced.
Third is just how useless the other characters are. (minor spoilers)
Fourth is pacing. Yes, I know I said the pacing was good. And it was! ...through the plot. There were several instances where Eliza or Jules would go off into their own world mid conversation. And I don't mean a 1 paragraph "She realized X Y Z" but a page or two or even three. I was reading on my phone, so I don't know how well the pages lined up, but there was a conversation towards the end where the dialogue was interrupted for three whole pages. I forgot what we were talking about at that point.
Lastly, the internal conflict. Yes, I get it. Jules has Eliza issues, and Eliza has mommy issues. This crops up frequently and in very small doses, and the same complaints and concerns every time. And sometimes, these complaints pop up mid conversation for a whole page! Both Eliza and Jules could have used some more development into their complaints rather than the same 3 things over and over again (as in expand upon the issues, give more examples, not spiders and pokers and coughing).
While these items listed have thoroughly annoyed me, overall, I did actually enjoy the book. I'd probably even be interested in reading book 2 in the far future. I'd recommend this book to people who want something more into character development than action, although there is plenty of action. It just definitely leaned more into character growth than physical growth,
So yeah. It was a good time. I just would have preferred a bit of slimming around the conversations, some more involvement of the side characters, and some more originality in the world building.
3/5, recommend!
August 27, 2026
Review of advanced reader copy from Goodreads giveaway.
A rich, thought-provoking steampunk fantasy with normalized queer romance.
Fleet of Wonders is an ambitious and deeply rewarding steampunk historical fantasy that blends adventure, magic, and social commentary into a compelling narrative. Set in a world that echoes the power dynamics of Great Britain, China, and the Opium Wars, the novel feels grounded in real historical tensions while introducing a fascinating metal(nature?)-based magic system. Imperialism, racism, class divisions, and personal survival all shape the story, and the author tackles these themes with impressive nuance rather than easy answers.
One of the book's greatest strengths is its cast. Every character feels shaped by their circumstances, motivations, and limitations, making even secondary characters memorable. The world may be expansive, but the emotional core remains firmly rooted in the people navigating it.
The romances (or at least one of them) were especially satisfying and one of the aspects that drew me to the book in the first place. The queer relationships felt authentic, heartfelt, and integral to the characters' journeys rather than simply being added for representation.
Liza was an interesting protagonist. Initially, she is in pure survival mode, focused on securing safety and power in a world that has offered her little security. Watching her develop mastery over her smith abilities while broadening her perspective beyond Coketown was one of the most rewarding parts of the novel. As the Fleet travels and she encounters new places and people, she gradually comes to understand what truly matters to her and who she wants to become.
Jules' storyline was equally compelling, though often in frustrating ways. His obsession with proving himself worthy of Liza frequently tested my patience, particularly because their relationship felt incredible mismatched. Their moral compasses differ significantly, especially regarding violence and survival. Liza may not relish difficult choices, but she is willing to do what is necessary to protect herself and those she loves, while Jules struggles under the weight of his conscience. Yet that discomfort ultimately serves the story. His journey toward developing self-worth independent of his feelings for Liza became one of the novel's strongest character arcs. I found myself rooting for Jules and Suman, both because they were an adorable pairing and because it offered a healthier, more balanced path forward for him.
The supporting cast is equally strong. Pierre, Charlotte, Suman, and Arthur each bring something distinct to the narrative, whether mystery, sincerity, humor, or emotional depth. They enrich the world-building without necessarily feeling like background characters.
Overall, Fleet of Wonders delivers exactly what I hope for in fantasy: a richly imagined world, morally complex characters, meaningful social commentary, and romances that genuinely resonate. It's an engaging adventure that never loses sight of the human stories at its heart, and I can't wait to continue the series.
A rich, thought-provoking steampunk fantasy with normalized queer romance.
Fleet of Wonders is an ambitious and deeply rewarding steampunk historical fantasy that blends adventure, magic, and social commentary into a compelling narrative. Set in a world that echoes the power dynamics of Great Britain, China, and the Opium Wars, the novel feels grounded in real historical tensions while introducing a fascinating metal(nature?)-based magic system. Imperialism, racism, class divisions, and personal survival all shape the story, and the author tackles these themes with impressive nuance rather than easy answers.
One of the book's greatest strengths is its cast. Every character feels shaped by their circumstances, motivations, and limitations, making even secondary characters memorable. The world may be expansive, but the emotional core remains firmly rooted in the people navigating it.
The romances (or at least one of them) were especially satisfying and one of the aspects that drew me to the book in the first place. The queer relationships felt authentic, heartfelt, and integral to the characters' journeys rather than simply being added for representation.
Liza was an interesting protagonist. Initially, she is in pure survival mode, focused on securing safety and power in a world that has offered her little security. Watching her develop mastery over her smith abilities while broadening her perspective beyond Coketown was one of the most rewarding parts of the novel. As the Fleet travels and she encounters new places and people, she gradually comes to understand what truly matters to her and who she wants to become.
Jules' storyline was equally compelling, though often in frustrating ways. His obsession with proving himself worthy of Liza frequently tested my patience, particularly because their relationship felt incredible mismatched. Their moral compasses differ significantly, especially regarding violence and survival. Liza may not relish difficult choices, but she is willing to do what is necessary to protect herself and those she loves, while Jules struggles under the weight of his conscience. Yet that discomfort ultimately serves the story. His journey toward developing self-worth independent of his feelings for Liza became one of the novel's strongest character arcs. I found myself rooting for Jules and Suman, both because they were an adorable pairing and because it offered a healthier, more balanced path forward for him.
The supporting cast is equally strong. Pierre, Charlotte, Suman, and Arthur each bring something distinct to the narrative, whether mystery, sincerity, humor, or emotional depth. They enrich the world-building without necessarily feeling like background characters.
Overall, Fleet of Wonders delivers exactly what I hope for in fantasy: a richly imagined world, morally complex characters, meaningful social commentary, and romances that genuinely resonate. It's an engaging adventure that never loses sight of the human stories at its heart, and I can't wait to continue the series.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
A fast-paced steampunk fantasy adventure influenced by history
The gorgeous cover and promise of historical representation drew me to Fleet of Wonders. I appreciated how the author wove in parts of lesser-known history with the British government's treatment of Chinese sailors and the Asian Diaspora. As I am also part of this diaspora, I actively try to look for books that have representation.
The worldbuilding is where the author truly shines. Every description shows the thought Lynch put into writing this story. Coketown's industrial neglected slums have a rawness to them that makes them feel real. The harsh realities are not sugar-coated, and instead offer an accurate representation of the difficulties of such a life. In contrast, the wonder of the competition and then the marvels of the ships offer an alternative hope for what could be. The magic system of this world is perfect for representing the systematic oppression of mixed race individuals and the lower class that mirrors our reality.
I liked the plot and am curious to see how this series ends as the first book left me with a lot of questions about the characters and what happens next. The questions asked by this book are good ones. How do we start to live rather than just survive? How do we make difficult choices? How far will we go before there are moral or ethical boundaries we cannot cross? The start of the book concerned me. The general sentiment was that life gave the characters a bad hand, so the conclusion they drew was that they'll never be anything more and should just lie and steal from anyone marginally (or significantly) better off than them. Any crimes are not not their fault because they were just evening the playing field. However, that message changed later in the book as the characters' journey leads to self-discovery and a better understanding of their personal ethics and moral boundaries. We start examining the best way to bring societal change while balancing it with more individual injustice that causes barriers.
The characters are dynamic with interesting backstories. Eliza and Jules provided two different perspectives of how to deal with systematic injustice and the feelings of those oppressed by it. The vices faced by the characters may not be unrealistic, but seem more mature than a YA book, particularly when compared to the teenage voice that carries the tone of the book, so I am left a little confused at the target age group. I'll admit love triangles aren't my favorite trope, but Pierre feels like a walking red flag, though all of the characters are various shades of morally grey. I'll be curious to see how that love story turns out in the next book.
3.75 Stars rounded to 4, because the characters didn't resonate with me, but the worldbuilding and plot were fantastic. Personally, I think the book would work better as an adult or new adult book due to the more mature themes and content. Would recommend to readers who love steampunk and stories that challenge their understanding of socioeconomic and racial dynamics.
Age Recommendation: 16+
Language: Damn (26), shit (1), bitch (1), bastard (8)
Romantic Content: Kisses, hugs, emotional connection; straight and LGBT relationships
Tone: Heavy
Worldbuilding: Solid
*I received an ARC from Netgalley. All opinions are my own.
The gorgeous cover and promise of historical representation drew me to Fleet of Wonders. I appreciated how the author wove in parts of lesser-known history with the British government's treatment of Chinese sailors and the Asian Diaspora. As I am also part of this diaspora, I actively try to look for books that have representation.
The worldbuilding is where the author truly shines. Every description shows the thought Lynch put into writing this story. Coketown's industrial neglected slums have a rawness to them that makes them feel real. The harsh realities are not sugar-coated, and instead offer an accurate representation of the difficulties of such a life. In contrast, the wonder of the competition and then the marvels of the ships offer an alternative hope for what could be. The magic system of this world is perfect for representing the systematic oppression of mixed race individuals and the lower class that mirrors our reality.
I liked the plot and am curious to see how this series ends as the first book left me with a lot of questions about the characters and what happens next. The questions asked by this book are good ones. How do we start to live rather than just survive? How do we make difficult choices? How far will we go before there are moral or ethical boundaries we cannot cross? The start of the book concerned me. The general sentiment was that life gave the characters a bad hand, so the conclusion they drew was that they'll never be anything more and should just lie and steal from anyone marginally (or significantly) better off than them. Any crimes are not not their fault because they were just evening the playing field. However, that message changed later in the book as the characters' journey leads to self-discovery and a better understanding of their personal ethics and moral boundaries. We start examining the best way to bring societal change while balancing it with more individual injustice that causes barriers.
The characters are dynamic with interesting backstories. Eliza and Jules provided two different perspectives of how to deal with systematic injustice and the feelings of those oppressed by it. The vices faced by the characters may not be unrealistic, but seem more mature than a YA book, particularly when compared to the teenage voice that carries the tone of the book, so I am left a little confused at the target age group. I'll admit love triangles aren't my favorite trope, but Pierre feels like a walking red flag, though all of the characters are various shades of morally grey. I'll be curious to see how that love story turns out in the next book.
3.75 Stars rounded to 4, because the characters didn't resonate with me, but the worldbuilding and plot were fantastic. Personally, I think the book would work better as an adult or new adult book due to the more mature themes and content. Would recommend to readers who love steampunk and stories that challenge their understanding of socioeconomic and racial dynamics.
Age Recommendation: 16+
Language: Damn (26), shit (1), bitch (1), bastard (8)
Romantic Content: Kisses, hugs, emotional connection; straight and LGBT relationships
Tone: Heavy
Worldbuilding: Solid
*I received an ARC from Netgalley. All opinions are my own.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Having the opportunity to read Erin's Fleet-- and watch her process as she wrote, was a unique honor. I could gush on length about the many things I adore about her writing, and this book, but I will try to keep it comprehensive, and spoiler free.
1. Eliza and Jules, I adored this dynamic duo all the way through. The care, and the rapport felt so deep and real, which in turn made the pain deep and real when Erin tries to cruelly pry them apart. I'm a sucker for both of their character types. Eliza, because I love me a morally gray woman who wants it all, and Jules because he is just so silly and fun. Y'know... until you pull the layers back on both and realize how beat down they are. The supporting cast is also perfect, but I'll refrain from going in depth, seeing as how my biases will definitely result in me divulging my future knowledge in an impassioned rant about who I love and who I hate. (If you know, you know.) Also, the banter is amazingly. More than once I caught myself grinning like an idiot.
2. Next, the world. Erin's superpower is research. She's good at it and does a lot of it, and it shows in every crevice and corner of her world. She does a great job blending real world history into this fantasy, which is somehow both sprawling in depth, but contained enough not to overwhelm.
3. Obviously the stakes and the ~romance~ stand out. The highs are high, the lows are low, the solutions are so so clever. You won't get a second of rest while reading. I couldn't put the dang book down.
TLDR, if you want a story that will feel deliberate in its details, real in its character, and sweep you off your feet, Fleet of Wonders is for you. I can't believe I get to write its first review.
1. Eliza and Jules, I adored this dynamic duo all the way through. The care, and the rapport felt so deep and real, which in turn made the pain deep and real when Erin tries to cruelly pry them apart. I'm a sucker for both of their character types. Eliza, because I love me a morally gray woman who wants it all, and Jules because he is just so silly and fun. Y'know... until you pull the layers back on both and realize how beat down they are. The supporting cast is also perfect, but I'll refrain from going in depth, seeing as how my biases will definitely result in me divulging my future knowledge in an impassioned rant about who I love and who I hate. (If you know, you know.) Also, the banter is amazingly. More than once I caught myself grinning like an idiot.
2. Next, the world. Erin's superpower is research. She's good at it and does a lot of it, and it shows in every crevice and corner of her world. She does a great job blending real world history into this fantasy, which is somehow both sprawling in depth, but contained enough not to overwhelm.
3. Obviously the stakes and the ~romance~ stand out. The highs are high, the lows are low, the solutions are so so clever. You won't get a second of rest while reading. I couldn't put the dang book down.
TLDR, if you want a story that will feel deliberate in its details, real in its character, and sweep you off your feet, Fleet of Wonders is for you. I can't believe I get to write its first review.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
I received a copy via NetGalley in return for an honest review.
I'm happy to give Fleet of Wonders 5 stars for a complex and intriguing world with characters made to match that keeps up a reasonably quick pace and sets up what promises to be an equally exciting sequel.
The world of Fleet of Wonders is huge and complex and feels real in all of those aspects. Colonialism, industrialism, wealth and power and the conflicts all involved there are consistent and persistent throughout the story, and these things shape the characters within it. I also very much enjoy having a world with queer relationships being more or less normalized. To that point, many of the character relationships kept me guessing the whole time, and there are definitely still more answers to be had in a follow up (at least I really HOPE).
And while the book does end with a sense of more to come, it is still fulfilling as a book and doesn't leave the reader hanging too bad - no big *gasp* twist at the last second, though it is still an interesting surprise. The plot moved along nicely and continued to set up challenges for the characters to rise to (for better or worse) at a reasonable pace with some interesting twists - especially when it comes to secrets that are kept or revealed.
Overall, I really enjoyed Fleet of Wonders and I'm very much looking forward to more - either within the same world, or just from this author in general because her writing was excellent and exciting. I definitely recommend this book for anyone looking for a good adventure with some characters dealing with moral questions and romantic quandaries, with a bit of swashbuckling and metal-magic.
I'm happy to give Fleet of Wonders 5 stars for a complex and intriguing world with characters made to match that keeps up a reasonably quick pace and sets up what promises to be an equally exciting sequel.
The world of Fleet of Wonders is huge and complex and feels real in all of those aspects. Colonialism, industrialism, wealth and power and the conflicts all involved there are consistent and persistent throughout the story, and these things shape the characters within it. I also very much enjoy having a world with queer relationships being more or less normalized. To that point, many of the character relationships kept me guessing the whole time, and there are definitely still more answers to be had in a follow up (at least I really HOPE).
And while the book does end with a sense of more to come, it is still fulfilling as a book and doesn't leave the reader hanging too bad - no big *gasp* twist at the last second, though it is still an interesting surprise. The plot moved along nicely and continued to set up challenges for the characters to rise to (for better or worse) at a reasonable pace with some interesting twists - especially when it comes to secrets that are kept or revealed.
Overall, I really enjoyed Fleet of Wonders and I'm very much looking forward to more - either within the same world, or just from this author in general because her writing was excellent and exciting. I definitely recommend this book for anyone looking for a good adventure with some characters dealing with moral questions and romantic quandaries, with a bit of swashbuckling and metal-magic.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
I received a copy from G.P. Putnam's Sons Books for Young Readers through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
When Eliza’s abusive parents throw her out, she decides that it’s time for her and her best friend to finally get out of the slums. She and Jules just have to pose as foreign nobles and compete in the naval competition with prizes worth the risk of trapping themselves on a ship with their teammates. It’s how they find themselves on the Belladonna where they make enemies, find romance, and quickly discover that this competition doesn’t care who makes it out alive.
We follow Eliza and Jules through their rotating POVs as they work their way toward the front of the competition that asks them to face death at the hands of their rivals. They face racism at every turn in a world inspired by different points in history that you will quickly recognize. This story heavily deals with racism, diaspora, verbal and physical abuse, parental death, and deportation.
I loved Eliza and Jules in this medium paced steampunk historical fantasy. I also found Eliza’s smithy abilities interesting, so I’m interested in learning more about the magic system all together. The challenges were kind of all over the place whenever they were actively solving a riddle or building something, which kept taking me out of the story. Otherwise, it was an excellent read that was often character driven, which I really enjoyed. While I love my fast-paced books, I always really enjoy reading character driven stories. I’m looking forward to seeing where the story goes next, especially after that cliffhanger.
When Eliza’s abusive parents throw her out, she decides that it’s time for her and her best friend to finally get out of the slums. She and Jules just have to pose as foreign nobles and compete in the naval competition with prizes worth the risk of trapping themselves on a ship with their teammates. It’s how they find themselves on the Belladonna where they make enemies, find romance, and quickly discover that this competition doesn’t care who makes it out alive.
We follow Eliza and Jules through their rotating POVs as they work their way toward the front of the competition that asks them to face death at the hands of their rivals. They face racism at every turn in a world inspired by different points in history that you will quickly recognize. This story heavily deals with racism, diaspora, verbal and physical abuse, parental death, and deportation.
I loved Eliza and Jules in this medium paced steampunk historical fantasy. I also found Eliza’s smithy abilities interesting, so I’m interested in learning more about the magic system all together. The challenges were kind of all over the place whenever they were actively solving a riddle or building something, which kept taking me out of the story. Otherwise, it was an excellent read that was often character driven, which I really enjoyed. While I love my fast-paced books, I always really enjoy reading character driven stories. I’m looking forward to seeing where the story goes next, especially after that cliffhanger.
Review of advance copy received from Edelweiss+
Rounded down from 4.25
Lynch serves an action-packed debut full of riddle-solving on the high seas, sizzling romance, and an unflinching examination of the horrors of imperialism.
The beating core of this book is the characters. Eliza and Jules are an individuated and compelling duo, only brought more to life by their crewmates. Eliza's drive for stability and vengeance pulls at the threads of Jules' more passive and conscientious nature, creating more and more tension as the competition intensifies. The crew fills out their dynamic masterfully— with kind and clever Suman reigning as my personal favorite. I can't wait to see how the sequels develop their collective dynamics.
Fleet of Wonders evokes all the unlikely alliance/heist energy of Five Broken Blades, with the industrial class-conscious magic of Foundryside, and the historically grounded anti-imperialism of Saints of Storm and Sorrow.
If you're looking for a fast-paced nautical adventure with a queer cast and candid exploration of hyphenated identity amidst imperial horrors, you are in the right place. The ending certainly left me scrabbling for more.
Lynch serves an action-packed debut full of riddle-solving on the high seas, sizzling romance, and an unflinching examination of the horrors of imperialism.
The beating core of this book is the characters. Eliza and Jules are an individuated and compelling duo, only brought more to life by their crewmates. Eliza's drive for stability and vengeance pulls at the threads of Jules' more passive and conscientious nature, creating more and more tension as the competition intensifies. The crew fills out their dynamic masterfully— with kind and clever Suman reigning as my personal favorite. I can't wait to see how the sequels develop their collective dynamics.
Fleet of Wonders evokes all the unlikely alliance/heist energy of Five Broken Blades, with the industrial class-conscious magic of Foundryside, and the historically grounded anti-imperialism of Saints of Storm and Sorrow.
If you're looking for a fast-paced nautical adventure with a queer cast and candid exploration of hyphenated identity amidst imperial horrors, you are in the right place. The ending certainly left me scrabbling for more.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
I think the lack of world-building has done this novel/story a huge disservice. We're thrown right into the story where Jules and Eliza are trying to help their odds of winning a competition, but the author hardly sets the scene for you as the reader. I have no clue what to envision, or think, about the environment we're in. We very well could have just axed the entire scene and gone with starting at the Fleet of Wonders, which also I'm in dismay with. Naming conventions here are...less than ideal. Joy War?
What's bothering me the most is the utter lack of believability I have in these characters. There's no build-up at all for any of them. I don't care about Jules or Eliza.
The author's prose gets a little too purple at times and draws me out of the story, but that's somehow not the biggest offense I've had with this book.
thank you to netgalley and G.P. Putnam's Sons Books for Young Readers for the eARC! I hope I never read something like this again.
What's bothering me the most is the utter lack of believability I have in these characters. There's no build-up at all for any of them. I don't care about Jules or Eliza.
The author's prose gets a little too purple at times and draws me out of the story, but that's somehow not the biggest offense I've had with this book.
thank you to netgalley and G.P. Putnam's Sons Books for Young Readers for the eARC! I hope I never read something like this again.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
⭐️⭐️⭐️½ Fleet of Wonders by Erin — 3.5 Stars
I enjoyed this one! The steampunk, historical-fantasy world was easily my favorite part. It was creative, vivid, and different enough to keep me interested. The characters were well done, and there was plenty of action, mystery, and adventure to keep the story moving.
Where it lost me a little was the pacing. Some of the internal dialogue became repetitive, and a few of the secrets and reveals felt a little forced rather than happening naturally.
But for a debut? There is a lot of potential here, and that ending definitely made me curious about what comes next.
3.5/5 stars.
Good story, really creative world, and an author I think is only going to get better.
I enjoyed this one! The steampunk, historical-fantasy world was easily my favorite part. It was creative, vivid, and different enough to keep me interested. The characters were well done, and there was plenty of action, mystery, and adventure to keep the story moving.
Where it lost me a little was the pacing. Some of the internal dialogue became repetitive, and a few of the secrets and reveals felt a little forced rather than happening naturally.
But for a debut? There is a lot of potential here, and that ending definitely made me curious about what comes next.
3.5/5 stars.
Good story, really creative world, and an author I think is only going to get better.
September 19, 2026
Fleet of Wonders was not at all what I expected in the most wonderfully surprising and exciting way. The way that Lynch employs (or should I say deploys?) technology and engineering to mold the trials experience was such a fresh take. The major themes of imperialism and class conflict really underpinned the narrative and drove the tension between the characters. The cast had me guessing the entire book and the cliffhanger makes me so hungry for book two. This journey was an absolutely fantastic experience.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Steampunk is back baby! I cannot stress how much I adored this book. It is brutal in it's depiction of empire, and all the forms of oppression that comes with it, but it is also achingly tender in the love and desire to live fully, morally, and contentedly it brings forth. Hard questions aren't shied away from, and it is so, so easy to fall head over heels for the messy, hurting characters who just want to be loved. Everything about it is incredible.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Rounded to a 4 because there were several things I didn't like. Some of the plot felt forced, the revelation of the characters' secrets, how it mostly led to two characters solving every riddle, and the repetition of characters' inner monologue. But I mostly had a good time with this read. If you loved history but hate the way it was taught to you, I think you would like this. It does give off some Legend of Korra vibes; we love the queer representation, Asian diaspora, and honestly, I need more silkpunk books in my life, thank you very much. I do recommend it for people who liked Amber Chen's Fall of the Dragon Duology and I am looking forward to seeing Hànyù Lynch's growth in Book 2.
Thank you, NetGalley & Putnam Sons, for the eARC in exchange for an honest review!
Thank you, NetGalley & Putnam Sons, for the eARC in exchange for an honest review!
August 23, 2026
2.5 stars
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