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Jake Desmet Adventures #1
Iron & Blood
New Pittsburgh, 1898 – a crucible of invention and intrigue. Born from the ashes of devastating fire, flood and earthquake, the city is ruled by the shadow government of The Oligarchy. In the swarming streets, people of a hundred nations drudge to feed the engines of progress, while in the abandoned tunnels beneath the city, supernatural creatures hide from the light, emerging only to feed.
Jake Desmet and Rick Brand travel the world to secure treasures and unusual items for the collections of wealthy patrons, accompanied by Jake’s cousin, Veronique LeClerque. But when their latest commission leads to Jake’s father’s murder, the three friends are drawn into a conspiracy where dark magic, industrial sabotage and the monsters that prey on the night will ultimately threaten not just New Pittsburgh, but the whole world.
Jake Desmet and Rick Brand travel the world to secure treasures and unusual items for the collections of wealthy patrons, accompanied by Jake’s cousin, Veronique LeClerque. But when their latest commission leads to Jake’s father’s murder, the three friends are drawn into a conspiracy where dark magic, industrial sabotage and the monsters that prey on the night will ultimately threaten not just New Pittsburgh, but the whole world.
482 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 1, 2015
31 people are currently reading
1186 people want to read
About the author
Gail Z. Martin
178 books1,783 followersGail Z. Martin discovered her passion for science fiction, fantasy and ghost stories in elementary school. The first story she wroteat age fivewas about a vampire. Her favorite TV show as a preschooler was Dark Shadows. At age 14, she decided to become a writer.
She enjoys attending science fiction/fantasy conventions, Renaissance fairs and living history sites. She is married and has three children, a Maltese and a golden retriever.
Gail Z. Martin is also Morgan Brice, which is her pen name for urban fantasy MM paranormal romance.
In addition to the online sites listed below, you can find me on
Facebook.com/Groups/MartinShadowAlliance
Facebook.com/Groups/WorldsOfMorganBrice
Twitter: @GailZMartin and @MorganBriceAuthor
YouTube: YouTube.com/c/GailZMartinAuthor
IG: @MorganBriceAuthorGail & Larry newsletter: http://eepurl.com/dd5XLj
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BookBub for Morgan: https://www.bookbub.com/authors/morga...
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Amazon profile: https://www.amazon.com/Gail-Z-Martin/...
Pinterest (for Morgan and Gail) www.Pinterest.com/Gzmartin
She enjoys attending science fiction/fantasy conventions, Renaissance fairs and living history sites. She is married and has three children, a Maltese and a golden retriever.
Gail Z. Martin is also Morgan Brice, which is her pen name for urban fantasy MM paranormal romance.
In addition to the online sites listed below, you can find me on
Facebook.com/Groups/MartinShadowAlliance
Facebook.com/Groups/WorldsOfMorganBrice
Twitter: @GailZMartin and @MorganBriceAuthor
YouTube: YouTube.com/c/GailZMartinAuthor
IG: @MorganBriceAuthorGail & Larry newsletter: http://eepurl.com/dd5XLj
Morgan Brice newsletter: http://eepurl.com/dy_8oL
BookBub for Morgan: https://www.bookbub.com/authors/morga...
Bookbub for Gail: https://www.bookbub.com/profile/gail-...
Amazon profile: https://www.amazon.com/Morgan-Brice/e...?
Amazon profile: https://www.amazon.com/Gail-Z-Martin/...
Pinterest (for Morgan and Gail) www.Pinterest.com/Gzmartin
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 51 reviews
August 5, 2015
Originally reviewed at Bookwraiths Reviews
Iron & Blood is another genre blender story from Gail Z. Martin; this time with Larry Martin as co-author. The novel reads very much like a traditional murder mystery except that it is filled with magical creatures, ghosts, witches, zombies, steampunk airships, and tesla rays, and is set in the alternate history city of New Pittsburgh circa 1898.
The main protagonists of the tale are Jake Desmet and Rick Brand, heirs to the Brand & Desmet Import Company. These two travel the world acquiring unusual items for their wealthy clientele. While their procurement of these treasures is usually completely legal, there are times when less conventional means are necessary, things do become harrowing, and a bit of fisticuffs do ensue.
As this novel begins Jake and Rick – along with their cousin Veronique LeClerque (Nikki to her friends) – find themselves pursued by some violent fellows, who seem determined to kill them over a rather insignificant acquisition. Fortunately, our heroes are tricked out with the latest armored carriages, high flying zeppelins and other assorted steampunk goodies that allow them to escape. But when shadowy assassins follow them across the Atlantic Ocean, leaving New Pittsburgh awash in blood, Jake, Rick and Nikki uncover a plot involving magic, vampires, politics, and industrial sabotage that threatens not only themselves and their home city, but the entire world!
While Iron & Blood has loads of daring-do by our trio, plenty of cool steampunk gadgets, and some vile villains, my favorite part of the narrative was the setting itself: New Pittsburgh. This hub of engineering contraptions, steam driven machines, and insane mining is the center of American steam-powered industry. Built upon the ruins of the old city of the same name after its destruction and elevation (Both literally and figuratively) by earthquake, it is a marvel to behold, modern in that charming steampunk way, yet filled with urban fantasy creatures and shadowy governments and known to the world as ‘hell with the lid off.’ Truly, it blew me away; one of the best steampunk setting that I have yet experienced.
On the other hand, Jake Desmet and Rick Brand did not blow me away. Don’t get me wrong, I liked them, but they never had that “It” factor that turns a protagonist into a star for me. And, unfortunately, the supporting cast were not developed enough to carry the story, even though Nikki showed a lot of promise as a tough, witty heroine in her too brief appearances.
The only other criticism I have of this novel (and it may just be me being too picky) is that I felt the authors gave too much of the mystery away by their constant focus on the villains. Sure, I liked seeing the bad guys plot their evil plans. Yeah, it felt good to always be one step ahead of the heroes, as they bumbled around trying to discover the things I already knew. But, at the same time, knowing everything that was going on took a lot of the fun out of the story for me. I mean, why read page after page of Jake and Rick frantically searching for clues to solve a mystery when I already knew it all.
Now, I’m a sucker for genre blenders, so this mix of pulp adventure, mystery, steampunk, urban fantasy, and fantasy with a great setting was exactly the sort of story that I enjoy. For that reason, Iron & Blood was a fun book to read, and I’d encourage others to give it a try.
I received this book from Solaris Publishing and Netgalley in exchange for a fair and honest review. I’d like to inform everyone that the review you are about to read is my opinion alone.
Iron & Blood is another genre blender story from Gail Z. Martin; this time with Larry Martin as co-author. The novel reads very much like a traditional murder mystery except that it is filled with magical creatures, ghosts, witches, zombies, steampunk airships, and tesla rays, and is set in the alternate history city of New Pittsburgh circa 1898.
The main protagonists of the tale are Jake Desmet and Rick Brand, heirs to the Brand & Desmet Import Company. These two travel the world acquiring unusual items for their wealthy clientele. While their procurement of these treasures is usually completely legal, there are times when less conventional means are necessary, things do become harrowing, and a bit of fisticuffs do ensue.
As this novel begins Jake and Rick – along with their cousin Veronique LeClerque (Nikki to her friends) – find themselves pursued by some violent fellows, who seem determined to kill them over a rather insignificant acquisition. Fortunately, our heroes are tricked out with the latest armored carriages, high flying zeppelins and other assorted steampunk goodies that allow them to escape. But when shadowy assassins follow them across the Atlantic Ocean, leaving New Pittsburgh awash in blood, Jake, Rick and Nikki uncover a plot involving magic, vampires, politics, and industrial sabotage that threatens not only themselves and their home city, but the entire world!
While Iron & Blood has loads of daring-do by our trio, plenty of cool steampunk gadgets, and some vile villains, my favorite part of the narrative was the setting itself: New Pittsburgh. This hub of engineering contraptions, steam driven machines, and insane mining is the center of American steam-powered industry. Built upon the ruins of the old city of the same name after its destruction and elevation (Both literally and figuratively) by earthquake, it is a marvel to behold, modern in that charming steampunk way, yet filled with urban fantasy creatures and shadowy governments and known to the world as ‘hell with the lid off.’ Truly, it blew me away; one of the best steampunk setting that I have yet experienced.
On the other hand, Jake Desmet and Rick Brand did not blow me away. Don’t get me wrong, I liked them, but they never had that “It” factor that turns a protagonist into a star for me. And, unfortunately, the supporting cast were not developed enough to carry the story, even though Nikki showed a lot of promise as a tough, witty heroine in her too brief appearances.
The only other criticism I have of this novel (and it may just be me being too picky) is that I felt the authors gave too much of the mystery away by their constant focus on the villains. Sure, I liked seeing the bad guys plot their evil plans. Yeah, it felt good to always be one step ahead of the heroes, as they bumbled around trying to discover the things I already knew. But, at the same time, knowing everything that was going on took a lot of the fun out of the story for me. I mean, why read page after page of Jake and Rick frantically searching for clues to solve a mystery when I already knew it all.
Now, I’m a sucker for genre blenders, so this mix of pulp adventure, mystery, steampunk, urban fantasy, and fantasy with a great setting was exactly the sort of story that I enjoy. For that reason, Iron & Blood was a fun book to read, and I’d encourage others to give it a try.
I received this book from Solaris Publishing and Netgalley in exchange for a fair and honest review. I’d like to inform everyone that the review you are about to read is my opinion alone.
August 2, 2015
Dosadno. Jako dosadno.
Svet sam po sebi je dosta interesantan posto predstavlja klasican 19vek ali u steampunk varijanti prosaranom magijom. I sam world building je fino obradjen sa dovoljno detalja da prenese potrebno ali ne i suvise da smori.
Ali zato sve ostalo...
Prvo prica je varijanta borbe za mocni macgiffin koji smo citali milion puta. Sama misterija je ne postojeca posto cim naletimo na nesto neobicno odma biva objasnjeno ili koji chapter kasnije. Sami likovi su takvi klasicni heroji iz drugih knjiga da prosto boli. Motivacije su fino razjasnjene ali sam interakcija likova, njihovi razgovori kao da je petogodisnjak pisao, puno elspozicije sa glupim rezonovanjem ciji je jedini posao da se prica nastavi.
Moj savet je da zaobidjete knjigu. U sirokom luku cak i ako ste ludi za steampunkom.
Svet sam po sebi je dosta interesantan posto predstavlja klasican 19vek ali u steampunk varijanti prosaranom magijom. I sam world building je fino obradjen sa dovoljno detalja da prenese potrebno ali ne i suvise da smori.
Ali zato sve ostalo...
Prvo prica je varijanta borbe za mocni macgiffin koji smo citali milion puta. Sama misterija je ne postojeca posto cim naletimo na nesto neobicno odma biva objasnjeno ili koji chapter kasnije. Sami likovi su takvi klasicni heroji iz drugih knjiga da prosto boli. Motivacije su fino razjasnjene ali sam interakcija likova, njihovi razgovori kao da je petogodisnjak pisao, puno elspozicije sa glupim rezonovanjem ciji je jedini posao da se prica nastavi.
Moj savet je da zaobidjete knjigu. U sirokom luku cak i ako ste ludi za steampunkom.
June 22, 2015
Magic and steampunk collide, mixing things that haunt the night with genius inventors in a new fusion genre of mystery, adventure and historical fantasy, taking it far beyond investigating a murder. The characters run into things you could never imagine, using technology the characters could barely dream of, and with a touch of Tolkein's Mines for the most ominous touch.
It's full speed ahead until very close to the end when it suddenly - and without warning - backtracked to show the same scene from another view. That completely threw me out of the story, and it never really regained the momentum, almost taking it down to 3 stars, but I'd enjoyed it up until then, and there's every indication that Brand & Desmet might have more adventures, for which I'm willing to keep an open mind.
Disclaimer: I received a free copy from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
It's full speed ahead until very close to the end when it suddenly - and without warning - backtracked to show the same scene from another view. That completely threw me out of the story, and it never really regained the momentum, almost taking it down to 3 stars, but I'd enjoyed it up until then, and there's every indication that Brand & Desmet might have more adventures, for which I'm willing to keep an open mind.
Disclaimer: I received a free copy from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
July 22, 2015
3.5 stars
https://lynnsbooks.wordpress.com/2015...
Iron and Blood is a fun, steampunk adventure involving vampires, ghosts, witches, magic and madcap inventions.
The story gets off to an immediate start with an explosion of action! Jake and Rick, accompanied by their cousin Veronique (or Nikki) are returning from what should have been a fairly small scale smuggling excursion. Jake and Rick are heirs to the Brand and Desmet Import Company which specialises in acquiring goods for their customers, sometimes using slightly less than conventional techniques in order to do so. Unfortunately their latest mission ends up with a shoot out above the clouds as they attempt to return home. From there onwards it seems that their every move is dogged by wannabee assassins – perhaps the package they carried has generated more interest than they expected!
The main thrust of the story involves our trio trying to discover the identity of their would-be murderer, using whatever means they can, before they end up, well, being murdered. Alongside this element of the story is the revelation of a mystery killer. A vicious individual with out of control tendencies in the vein of the Ripper.
I don’t really want to give away too much plot. Suffice to say there is plenty of action with shoot outs and would be bombings, attempted abductions and almost zombie-like people poised to attack around virtually every corner.
New Pittsburgh is the main setting. A hub of engineering excellence with new fangled contraptions and steam driven inventions positively running amok. The year is 1898 and whilst modern engineering is reaching the pinnacle of it’s success with virtually anything and everything being a possibility, the means to power such inventions needs to also be brought up to speed with the times. Mining is a major industry, although prone to disasters at the best of times and the authorities controlling the digging need to pay heed to the darkness that seems to be growing in certain areas. The digging may be uncovering more than simply the potential means of powering these new gadgets. (I can’t help thinking at this point ‘the dwarves dug too deep’ – and of course you have to read that with the voice of Gandalf running through your mind).
In terms of characters, as above we have Jake, Rick and Nikki. On top of that we have Drostan Fletcher, an early days type of detective who is investigating the murders and Adam – the special inventor who seems to be able to make just about anything. If you think it – he can build it. Our intrepid trio, well, they’re fun up to a point and they bring with them a feeling of ‘jolly japes’. You can imagine one of them blurting out ‘oh, what fun’ during a chase and shoot out and you can definitely imagine one of the baddies saying ‘if it hadn’t been for those darn kids’! If you want a bit more emotional depth then you may not like the three of them. Personally, they weren’t my favourites but I think they fit well with this story. Adam, is the geeky inventor a bit too immersed in his latest project to even notice as things go pear shaped around him. Drostan is a little bit of a show stealer. I enjoyed spending time with him and found his particular scenes very entertaining and a bit difficult to be torn away from.
In terms of criticisms. Well, nothing really too harsh. As the book felt more like a tongue in cheek comic style adventure I would have preferred a few more cheesy witticisms. It definitely could have used a little bit more humour in the dialogue I felt. Also there was a change of tack in the narration towards the end which I felt was a bit incongruous or jarring and I wasn’t sure of the necessity for the switch. It also began to feel a little repetitive in that every time we opened a new chapter there would be a shootout but as the story progressed I can’t really say that I felt there was any real threat and I became a bit complacent about them. That could have been the lighthearted way that the main protagonists dealt with each new threat but it came to feel that the villains were bungling things massively. There was an element of each of the gadgets becoming more over the top or outrageous as the book progressed and the attempted murders escalated but I think that could all be put down to the ‘tongue in cheek’ element to the story. I think the enjoyment from this novel will be very much based on what type of feel you decide to go with – if you want something deep and meaningful then probably best to avoid. If you want a book that’s borders outrageous and silly with lots of action then this could be perfect. For me, it felt like the sort of book that I like to read in between huge chunksters – the kind of book where you feel like your brain can take a breather.
Overall this is a fun, easy, quick paced read. It has all sorts of fantastical elements that I didn’t really expect to see, with magic sitting comfortably alongside scientific invention and it ended on a note that is a perfect setup for more adventures – which will all no doubt be more crazy than the last.
I received a copy of this from the publishers through Netgalley for which my thanks. The above is my own opinion.
https://lynnsbooks.wordpress.com/2015...
Iron and Blood is a fun, steampunk adventure involving vampires, ghosts, witches, magic and madcap inventions.
The story gets off to an immediate start with an explosion of action! Jake and Rick, accompanied by their cousin Veronique (or Nikki) are returning from what should have been a fairly small scale smuggling excursion. Jake and Rick are heirs to the Brand and Desmet Import Company which specialises in acquiring goods for their customers, sometimes using slightly less than conventional techniques in order to do so. Unfortunately their latest mission ends up with a shoot out above the clouds as they attempt to return home. From there onwards it seems that their every move is dogged by wannabee assassins – perhaps the package they carried has generated more interest than they expected!
The main thrust of the story involves our trio trying to discover the identity of their would-be murderer, using whatever means they can, before they end up, well, being murdered. Alongside this element of the story is the revelation of a mystery killer. A vicious individual with out of control tendencies in the vein of the Ripper.
I don’t really want to give away too much plot. Suffice to say there is plenty of action with shoot outs and would be bombings, attempted abductions and almost zombie-like people poised to attack around virtually every corner.
New Pittsburgh is the main setting. A hub of engineering excellence with new fangled contraptions and steam driven inventions positively running amok. The year is 1898 and whilst modern engineering is reaching the pinnacle of it’s success with virtually anything and everything being a possibility, the means to power such inventions needs to also be brought up to speed with the times. Mining is a major industry, although prone to disasters at the best of times and the authorities controlling the digging need to pay heed to the darkness that seems to be growing in certain areas. The digging may be uncovering more than simply the potential means of powering these new gadgets. (I can’t help thinking at this point ‘the dwarves dug too deep’ – and of course you have to read that with the voice of Gandalf running through your mind).
In terms of characters, as above we have Jake, Rick and Nikki. On top of that we have Drostan Fletcher, an early days type of detective who is investigating the murders and Adam – the special inventor who seems to be able to make just about anything. If you think it – he can build it. Our intrepid trio, well, they’re fun up to a point and they bring with them a feeling of ‘jolly japes’. You can imagine one of them blurting out ‘oh, what fun’ during a chase and shoot out and you can definitely imagine one of the baddies saying ‘if it hadn’t been for those darn kids’! If you want a bit more emotional depth then you may not like the three of them. Personally, they weren’t my favourites but I think they fit well with this story. Adam, is the geeky inventor a bit too immersed in his latest project to even notice as things go pear shaped around him. Drostan is a little bit of a show stealer. I enjoyed spending time with him and found his particular scenes very entertaining and a bit difficult to be torn away from.
In terms of criticisms. Well, nothing really too harsh. As the book felt more like a tongue in cheek comic style adventure I would have preferred a few more cheesy witticisms. It definitely could have used a little bit more humour in the dialogue I felt. Also there was a change of tack in the narration towards the end which I felt was a bit incongruous or jarring and I wasn’t sure of the necessity for the switch. It also began to feel a little repetitive in that every time we opened a new chapter there would be a shootout but as the story progressed I can’t really say that I felt there was any real threat and I became a bit complacent about them. That could have been the lighthearted way that the main protagonists dealt with each new threat but it came to feel that the villains were bungling things massively. There was an element of each of the gadgets becoming more over the top or outrageous as the book progressed and the attempted murders escalated but I think that could all be put down to the ‘tongue in cheek’ element to the story. I think the enjoyment from this novel will be very much based on what type of feel you decide to go with – if you want something deep and meaningful then probably best to avoid. If you want a book that’s borders outrageous and silly with lots of action then this could be perfect. For me, it felt like the sort of book that I like to read in between huge chunksters – the kind of book where you feel like your brain can take a breather.
Overall this is a fun, easy, quick paced read. It has all sorts of fantastical elements that I didn’t really expect to see, with magic sitting comfortably alongside scientific invention and it ended on a note that is a perfect setup for more adventures – which will all no doubt be more crazy than the last.
I received a copy of this from the publishers through Netgalley for which my thanks. The above is my own opinion.
October 22, 2015
This book was ok.
It starts out entertaining enough but the further I got into the book, the more bored I became, and the more I wanted the book to end.
It's not boring because there isn't any action. There's plenty. The problem is that the action becomes repetitive. Each encounter follows the same formula. The characters investigate/poke around somewhere. Bad guys show up. Good guys defeat them due to Deus Ex Machina or something equally contrived. Rinse and repeat. It's like that quote "Coincidences to get characters into trouble are great; coincidences to get them out of it are cheating."
I started skimming through action scenes eventually because I knew the characters would come out on top, with only minor injuries, while the bad guys are slaughtered. You don't feel like any of the characters are in danger. It started becoming annoying, when characters seemed to have incredible foresight. Not only Jake seems to have the 6th sense.
It also didn't help this story when we know who the murderer is very early on. The rest of the book is spent just waiting for characters to catch up and figure it out. It would've been better if we discovered who was behind it with the characters instead.
Another issue i had was that there isn't enough description. It becomes confusing to read through these scenes that are full of fighting, when you have no real sense of where things are. I don't mind relying on imagination for description, but my imagination needs some kind of foundation to start on.
There was a strange chapter at the end where suddenly, you're transported back in time by 30 mins story time, retold in another character's POV for some reason. It was jarring, and it shouldn't have made it past editing. Speaking of editing, the character Cullan's name was misspelled multiple times. But that's just a trivial annoyance.
I don't think I'll be picking up the next book in the series. The description made it sound like we'd be treated to some worldwide adventure but instead, we're confined to one city, with a murder mystery that isn't a mystery at all.
On the plus side, there were some interesting characters. Drostan, Nicki, Andreas and Renate to name a few.
It starts out entertaining enough but the further I got into the book, the more bored I became, and the more I wanted the book to end.
It's not boring because there isn't any action. There's plenty. The problem is that the action becomes repetitive. Each encounter follows the same formula. The characters investigate/poke around somewhere. Bad guys show up. Good guys defeat them due to Deus Ex Machina or something equally contrived. Rinse and repeat. It's like that quote "Coincidences to get characters into trouble are great; coincidences to get them out of it are cheating."
I started skimming through action scenes eventually because I knew the characters would come out on top, with only minor injuries, while the bad guys are slaughtered. You don't feel like any of the characters are in danger. It started becoming annoying, when characters seemed to have incredible foresight. Not only Jake seems to have the 6th sense.
It also didn't help this story when we know who the murderer is very early on. The rest of the book is spent just waiting for characters to catch up and figure it out. It would've been better if we discovered who was behind it with the characters instead.
Another issue i had was that there isn't enough description. It becomes confusing to read through these scenes that are full of fighting, when you have no real sense of where things are. I don't mind relying on imagination for description, but my imagination needs some kind of foundation to start on.
There was a strange chapter at the end where suddenly, you're transported back in time by 30 mins story time, retold in another character's POV for some reason. It was jarring, and it shouldn't have made it past editing. Speaking of editing, the character Cullan's name was misspelled multiple times. But that's just a trivial annoyance.
I don't think I'll be picking up the next book in the series. The description made it sound like we'd be treated to some worldwide adventure but instead, we're confined to one city, with a murder mystery that isn't a mystery at all.
On the plus side, there were some interesting characters. Drostan, Nicki, Andreas and Renate to name a few.
July 29, 2015
Review courtesy of All Things Urban Fantasy.
IRON & BLOOD has it all. It’s an excellent murder mystery novel filled with steampunk airships, vampire witches, clockwork zombies, tesla rays, and much more, all thrown into an alternate history taking place in New Pittsburgh.
IRON & BLOOD had an Indiana Jones meets James Bond feel. A lot of the book revolves a couple of lost ancient artifacts that Jake and his two cohorts, Rick and Nicki, are trying to recover before the enemy does. The rest of the book is filled with high speed carriage chases where the carriages have gattling guns, bullet proof glass, and other accessories. Jake also has his own Q. Adam Faber works with Tesla and is a genius in his own right, and he is always giving Jake and his friends all kinds of top-of-the-line crazy equipment.
IRON & BLOOD really does have it all, but it could of done it all and cut out a few scenes. There were too many chapters that could’ve been cut because they were repeating information or giving away too much of the antagonist’s plans. However, I still highly recommend IRON & BLOOD, and look forward to reading more of the Jake Desmet Adventure series.
Sexual content: N/A
IRON & BLOOD has it all. It’s an excellent murder mystery novel filled with steampunk airships, vampire witches, clockwork zombies, tesla rays, and much more, all thrown into an alternate history taking place in New Pittsburgh.
IRON & BLOOD had an Indiana Jones meets James Bond feel. A lot of the book revolves a couple of lost ancient artifacts that Jake and his two cohorts, Rick and Nicki, are trying to recover before the enemy does. The rest of the book is filled with high speed carriage chases where the carriages have gattling guns, bullet proof glass, and other accessories. Jake also has his own Q. Adam Faber works with Tesla and is a genius in his own right, and he is always giving Jake and his friends all kinds of top-of-the-line crazy equipment.
IRON & BLOOD really does have it all, but it could of done it all and cut out a few scenes. There were too many chapters that could’ve been cut because they were repeating information or giving away too much of the antagonist’s plans. However, I still highly recommend IRON & BLOOD, and look forward to reading more of the Jake Desmet Adventure series.
Sexual content: N/A
July 16, 2015
The setting of New Pittsburgh makes use of the history of the Gilded age and mixes some steampunk elements along with some magic to set the stage for this new series. Jake and Rick are friends and heirs to their fathers’ shipping company. Most of the business is above boards but sometimes they retrieve items for their customers that need a delicate and discreet touch. The book opens with one of these assignments ending in a hail of bullets and an airship battle on the way back to America. Jake’s father has been murdered by magic and it quickly comes to light that the killer was looking for a shipment that has gone missing.
The rest of the story is fast paced and introduces lots of characters that have interesting back stories as well. The story does work in as it goes on how all the different players know one another and the authors also make use of many tidbits of interesting history to flesh out the story as well.
A good fun read and a nice start to a new series.
Digital review copy provided by the publisher through NetGalley
The rest of the story is fast paced and introduces lots of characters that have interesting back stories as well. The story does work in as it goes on how all the different players know one another and the authors also make use of many tidbits of interesting history to flesh out the story as well.
A good fun read and a nice start to a new series.
Digital review copy provided by the publisher through NetGalley
November 4, 2025
One part old magic, one part steampunk and one part action adventure is the recipe for Iron & Blood.
Jake and Rick are attacked while acquiring a difficult item for a collector, but it seems the attack is not just focused on their mission but their family at its core. With a terrible loss, They return home with their cousin Nikki in tow.
They must discover the plot behind the machination for power before more family members are killed. Traversing a slipper path between magic, mechanics and politics the team is up against a cunning foe that could destroy all they hold dear.
Martin has created a descriptive and unique steampunk world for the story of Iron & Blood. It is kind of a mash up of paranormal, steampunk and action adventure with a treasure hunting twist. I especially enjoyed the commemoratory that is clear between the family members and the partnership. 3.5 Stars.
I received this ARC copy of Iron & Blood from Rebellion - Solaris in exchange for a honest review. This book is set for publication July 7, 2015.
Jake and Rick are attacked while acquiring a difficult item for a collector, but it seems the attack is not just focused on their mission but their family at its core. With a terrible loss, They return home with their cousin Nikki in tow.
They must discover the plot behind the machination for power before more family members are killed. Traversing a slipper path between magic, mechanics and politics the team is up against a cunning foe that could destroy all they hold dear.
Martin has created a descriptive and unique steampunk world for the story of Iron & Blood. It is kind of a mash up of paranormal, steampunk and action adventure with a treasure hunting twist. I especially enjoyed the commemoratory that is clear between the family members and the partnership. 3.5 Stars.
I received this ARC copy of Iron & Blood from Rebellion - Solaris in exchange for a honest review. This book is set for publication July 7, 2015.
December 29, 2015
2.5 stars
The back cover blurb would lead you to think that this was a story about Jake, his lifelong friend, Rick, and his cousin, Nikki. Well, you'd be wrong. They are part of the story but there is also a plethora of secondary characters, so many, in fact, that it feels a little overcrowded. It doesn't help that it is actually several of these other, secondary characters that actually do much of the heavy lifting as far as moving the story along and resolving problems/obstacles goes. Frankly, I found some of these other characters more interesting than the supposed main trio who mostly spend their time outrunning the latest attempt on their lives. This wasn't a bad book, but much of the characterization and world building felt too superficial...even for a first book.
The back cover blurb would lead you to think that this was a story about Jake, his lifelong friend, Rick, and his cousin, Nikki. Well, you'd be wrong. They are part of the story but there is also a plethora of secondary characters, so many, in fact, that it feels a little overcrowded. It doesn't help that it is actually several of these other, secondary characters that actually do much of the heavy lifting as far as moving the story along and resolving problems/obstacles goes. Frankly, I found some of these other characters more interesting than the supposed main trio who mostly spend their time outrunning the latest attempt on their lives. This wasn't a bad book, but much of the characterization and world building felt too superficial...even for a first book.
June 15, 2017
When I saw some of the reviews for this I didn't hold much hope but I really enjoyed this. It's a SteamPunk jaunt with a mix of genres, there's Witches, Vampires and an assortment of demons and other spooks. There's action from the start and continues through the book. There was a wee bit at the end that didn't feel right to me and I would have given it 5* if it hadn't been for that. Looking forward to the next.
March 13, 2021
Recensione su World of Interests
Iron & Blood è il primo volume di una serie steampunk ambientata nella città di New Pittsburgh nel 1898. La città è estremamente moderna grazie alle macchine a vapore ed è sede principale dell’industria americana. La città è governata dalla misteriosa Oligarchia.
Assieme allo steampunk è mischiato del fantasy. Di fatto, a New Pittsburgh vivono maghi, streghe e creature sovrannaturali. In particolare, nelle miniere si trovano creature maligne ed estremamente pericolose che si cibano dei minatori.
La storia segue Jake Desmet e Rick Brand, amici ed eredi della Brand & Desmet Import Company: i due viaggiano per il mondo e si occupano di oggetti magici e inusuali per i loro clienti. I due sono accompagnati da Nicki, cugina di Jake. Quando i tre devono recuperare un artifatto per un mago polacco, vengono attaccati e quasi uccisi. Gli assalti si ripetono più volte e i nostri protagonisti si trovano immischiati in una storia molto più grande di loro che coinvolge magia nera, assassinii per la città, vampiri e sabotaggi industriali.
Insomma, come potete vedere in questo primo volume viene data molta carne al fuoco. Ero indecisa se leggerlo o meno, in quanto il resto della serie non è stato ancora pubblicato. Comunque l’ho fatto, per la maggior parte tramite la versione audio letta da Edoardo Ballerini (è in inglese, non in italiano).
È stato un po’ strano, perché, almeno per me, è stato più difficile concentrarsi senza avere le pagine davanti e camminando per strada. Bisogna sforzare di più l’immaginazione; è una cosa che ritengo positiva, ma è complesso abituarsi. In parte l’ho anche letto semplicemente in e-book, e in parte assieme (la cosa che ho preferito). Ballerini è un ottimo narratore che consiglio vivamente.
Per quanto riguarda la storia, l’ho trovata complessa per quanto riguarda la quantità di personaggi coinvolti e i generi nel mix. Ho pensato che fosse molto interessante anche l’uso fatto della magia e delle tecnologie disponibili ai personaggi (in particolare gli esperiementi sulle persone) nonché le creature sovrannaturali che vengono utilizzate, i gessyan. Non voglio parlarne approfonditamente perché è tutto così estremamente collegato che rischio di fare degli spoiler enormi.
Parlando invece dei personaggi, credo che in questo primo libro si siano capite molto bene le loro caratteristiche.
Jake e Nicki sono entrambi molto coraggiosi, ma lei rischia sempre molto di più del cugino. È intraprendente e curiosa e, anche se a volte fa delle azioni un po’ sciocche, apprezzo molto la sua tenacia e la sua intraprendenza. Jake invece è, nel trio, quello che mi è piaciuto di meno. Non perché sia un brutto personaggio, anzi, ma è quello a cui ho fatto più fatica a legarmi.
Rick è invece quello più curioso e intelligente, quello che si ingegna per fare nuove scoperte tecnologiche. Credo sia il mio preferito.
Devo dire però che, in realtà, i miei personaggi preferiti del romanzo sono stati Mitch e Jacob. C’è un volume di storie brevi a loro dedicato e spero di poterlo leggere a breve.
Per quanto riguarda i “cattivi”, per così dire, Thwaites è più che altro una marionetta e poco interessante, mentre il vero pericolo è Drogo Veles: è un vero stronzo e, seppur in modo in un certo senso attenuato, possiamo vedere attraverso di lui a quanto si può spingere qualcuno per la propria sete di potere.
Lo stile di scrittura è, forse, un po’ pesante e l’inglese utilizzato richiede un’ottima conoscenza della lingua; per questo non lo consiglio a chi si appresta a leggere in lingua straniera per la prima volta. Nel complesso l’ho trovato un ottimo libro e spero che il seguito sia pubblicato presto!
Iron & Blood è il primo volume di una serie steampunk ambientata nella città di New Pittsburgh nel 1898. La città è estremamente moderna grazie alle macchine a vapore ed è sede principale dell’industria americana. La città è governata dalla misteriosa Oligarchia.
Assieme allo steampunk è mischiato del fantasy. Di fatto, a New Pittsburgh vivono maghi, streghe e creature sovrannaturali. In particolare, nelle miniere si trovano creature maligne ed estremamente pericolose che si cibano dei minatori.
La storia segue Jake Desmet e Rick Brand, amici ed eredi della Brand & Desmet Import Company: i due viaggiano per il mondo e si occupano di oggetti magici e inusuali per i loro clienti. I due sono accompagnati da Nicki, cugina di Jake. Quando i tre devono recuperare un artifatto per un mago polacco, vengono attaccati e quasi uccisi. Gli assalti si ripetono più volte e i nostri protagonisti si trovano immischiati in una storia molto più grande di loro che coinvolge magia nera, assassinii per la città, vampiri e sabotaggi industriali.
Insomma, come potete vedere in questo primo volume viene data molta carne al fuoco. Ero indecisa se leggerlo o meno, in quanto il resto della serie non è stato ancora pubblicato. Comunque l’ho fatto, per la maggior parte tramite la versione audio letta da Edoardo Ballerini (è in inglese, non in italiano).
È stato un po’ strano, perché, almeno per me, è stato più difficile concentrarsi senza avere le pagine davanti e camminando per strada. Bisogna sforzare di più l’immaginazione; è una cosa che ritengo positiva, ma è complesso abituarsi. In parte l’ho anche letto semplicemente in e-book, e in parte assieme (la cosa che ho preferito). Ballerini è un ottimo narratore che consiglio vivamente.
Per quanto riguarda la storia, l’ho trovata complessa per quanto riguarda la quantità di personaggi coinvolti e i generi nel mix. Ho pensato che fosse molto interessante anche l’uso fatto della magia e delle tecnologie disponibili ai personaggi (in particolare gli esperiementi sulle persone) nonché le creature sovrannaturali che vengono utilizzate, i gessyan. Non voglio parlarne approfonditamente perché è tutto così estremamente collegato che rischio di fare degli spoiler enormi.
Parlando invece dei personaggi, credo che in questo primo libro si siano capite molto bene le loro caratteristiche.
Jake e Nicki sono entrambi molto coraggiosi, ma lei rischia sempre molto di più del cugino. È intraprendente e curiosa e, anche se a volte fa delle azioni un po’ sciocche, apprezzo molto la sua tenacia e la sua intraprendenza. Jake invece è, nel trio, quello che mi è piaciuto di meno. Non perché sia un brutto personaggio, anzi, ma è quello a cui ho fatto più fatica a legarmi.
Rick è invece quello più curioso e intelligente, quello che si ingegna per fare nuove scoperte tecnologiche. Credo sia il mio preferito.
Devo dire però che, in realtà, i miei personaggi preferiti del romanzo sono stati Mitch e Jacob. C’è un volume di storie brevi a loro dedicato e spero di poterlo leggere a breve.
Per quanto riguarda i “cattivi”, per così dire, Thwaites è più che altro una marionetta e poco interessante, mentre il vero pericolo è Drogo Veles: è un vero stronzo e, seppur in modo in un certo senso attenuato, possiamo vedere attraverso di lui a quanto si può spingere qualcuno per la propria sete di potere.
Lo stile di scrittura è, forse, un po’ pesante e l’inglese utilizzato richiede un’ottima conoscenza della lingua; per questo non lo consiglio a chi si appresta a leggere in lingua straniera per la prima volta. Nel complesso l’ho trovato un ottimo libro e spero che il seguito sia pubblicato presto!
July 20, 2015
I was a big fan of the first Necromancer books when they came out, though I haven't kept up with the author's more recent works. When I saw this come up on GoodReads I was excited, as I enjoy steampunk and really like the author's characters and complex plot lines. Fortunately, I was able to snag an egalley through NetGalley, and really enjoyed my read.
Unlike so many steampunk books, this one is not a romance. It also takes place primarily in the US, in the Pittsburgh area. It takes advantage of the inventiveness of the era at the end of the 19th century, and probably pushes the bounds a bit. The story revolves around a firm that finds and delivers treasures for museums and other (private) collectors, sometimes illicitly. Magic does exist, although most don't believe in it. Pittsburgh is a town full of European immigrants, and I wish I were better at hearing accents in my head, as this book has quite a collection.
There has been a suspicious death of someone important in the firm. At the same time, there are a number of grisly murders of those who won't be missed. Figuring out who may be behind these killings, why, and how they may be connected, is the main action of the book. However, we do spend some time with the perspective of one of the villains, so we know what is going on pretty early in the book.
Overall, I really enjoyed the story. It was fast moving and fun with some villains who were easy to root against, but whose main weakness was arrogance, not stupidity. However, I did have to suspend disbelief more than I expected. The technology was a bit fantastical, with a steampunk Q-type character. Also, the number of gun fights without police involvement was more than a stretch.
I didn't see anything that states this is the start of a series, but while this is a standalone novel, there is enough depth and openness at the ending for at least one sequel.
Unlike so many steampunk books, this one is not a romance. It also takes place primarily in the US, in the Pittsburgh area. It takes advantage of the inventiveness of the era at the end of the 19th century, and probably pushes the bounds a bit. The story revolves around a firm that finds and delivers treasures for museums and other (private) collectors, sometimes illicitly. Magic does exist, although most don't believe in it. Pittsburgh is a town full of European immigrants, and I wish I were better at hearing accents in my head, as this book has quite a collection.
There has been a suspicious death of someone important in the firm. At the same time, there are a number of grisly murders of those who won't be missed. Figuring out who may be behind these killings, why, and how they may be connected, is the main action of the book. However, we do spend some time with the perspective of one of the villains, so we know what is going on pretty early in the book.
Overall, I really enjoyed the story. It was fast moving and fun with some villains who were easy to root against, but whose main weakness was arrogance, not stupidity. However, I did have to suspend disbelief more than I expected. The technology was a bit fantastical, with a steampunk Q-type character. Also, the number of gun fights without police involvement was more than a stretch.
I didn't see anything that states this is the start of a series, but while this is a standalone novel, there is enough depth and openness at the ending for at least one sequel.
December 29, 2015
I was neither impressed nor disappointed in this book, so this is one of those reviews which is super difficult for me to elucidate. I thought the premise was a bit new and interesting for steampunk, which is a plus, as is the lack of emphasis on any romantic angle. Usually steampunk is utterly focused on romantic subplots for some bizarre reason. So, the absence of the usual trope was admittedly refreshing. (Also, I got my 19th century gun trifecta: derringer, Remington, Colt).
Then there was the enormous cast of characters thrown at the reader in the first book of a series. For me, this was both a good and bad idea. Good, as honestly I might have preferred the minor characters that showed up the main characters, or at least some of them. (The DSI gentlemen seemed WAY more interesting and I was gratified to find out they have short stories). The bad: it felt as though I was being thrown into an established world without the benefit of any prior knowledge of the world. The book itself wasn't short, but I still don't believe there was enough plot space and time to properly introduce and manage the many characters.
Lastly, I was not absolutely enraptured by Nicki, the way ever other reader appears to be. I thought she was an unrealistic stock character, the tough, crazy pretty girl. She's so spunky! Ugh. Yeah, get it, I've read steampunk before, come across more than a million of them. Well, at least I wasn't forced to read about her in some insipid, forced romance. That's probably for the next book.
Overall, this was just about average steampunk fare. There were some interesting parts, but the confusion and plot pacing detracted from what should have been a better book. However, it was also the best Gail Z. Martin book I've read in a long time, so kudos on choosing a good writing partner.
Then there was the enormous cast of characters thrown at the reader in the first book of a series. For me, this was both a good and bad idea. Good, as honestly I might have preferred the minor characters that showed up the main characters, or at least some of them. (The DSI gentlemen seemed WAY more interesting and I was gratified to find out they have short stories). The bad: it felt as though I was being thrown into an established world without the benefit of any prior knowledge of the world. The book itself wasn't short, but I still don't believe there was enough plot space and time to properly introduce and manage the many characters.
Lastly, I was not absolutely enraptured by Nicki, the way ever other reader appears to be. I thought she was an unrealistic stock character, the tough, crazy pretty girl. She's so spunky! Ugh. Yeah, get it, I've read steampunk before, come across more than a million of them. Well, at least I wasn't forced to read about her in some insipid, forced romance. That's probably for the next book.
Overall, this was just about average steampunk fare. There were some interesting parts, but the confusion and plot pacing detracted from what should have been a better book. However, it was also the best Gail Z. Martin book I've read in a long time, so kudos on choosing a good writing partner.
July 4, 2015
Iron and Blood is an action driven story filled with magic, great inventions, ghosts, vampires and witches (most who are male). While the action does drive the story there are a whole cast of characters who are part of the action.
Rick Brand and Jake Desmet are a big part of the story line and the action. For everything to work there has to be world building and back-story. The story line helps with the world building. The back story is worked into the dialogue. There is often mention of past actions taken by the characters that highlights the fact that each has seen danger and action in the past.
While Rick and Jake are main characters this is not an all male crew. Nikki, a cousin of Jake’s takes a major role in the story and she is joined by several very capable female friends who are part of the action.
Big parts of the fun in the book are the inventions. As the story progresses the danger requires more unusual weapons and accessories. There is a great character who lives to invent and comes up with what is needed each time.
Iron & Blood is the first book in a new series and while the big problem is solved there is a big loose end that will be around for the next book. Look for the curse at the end. I think you will find it to be very familiar and one that means that the characters will have many more adventures.
This is the first time that both Gail and Larry Martin have officially co-authored a book. Gail says in the notes that they have often worked together on previous books and the time just seemed right for both names to appear on the cover.
Rick Brand and Jake Desmet are a big part of the story line and the action. For everything to work there has to be world building and back-story. The story line helps with the world building. The back story is worked into the dialogue. There is often mention of past actions taken by the characters that highlights the fact that each has seen danger and action in the past.
While Rick and Jake are main characters this is not an all male crew. Nikki, a cousin of Jake’s takes a major role in the story and she is joined by several very capable female friends who are part of the action.
Big parts of the fun in the book are the inventions. As the story progresses the danger requires more unusual weapons and accessories. There is a great character who lives to invent and comes up with what is needed each time.
Iron & Blood is the first book in a new series and while the big problem is solved there is a big loose end that will be around for the next book. Look for the curse at the end. I think you will find it to be very familiar and one that means that the characters will have many more adventures.
This is the first time that both Gail and Larry Martin have officially co-authored a book. Gail says in the notes that they have often worked together on previous books and the time just seemed right for both names to appear on the cover.
October 27, 2015
I enjoyed this book. It was a little hard to get into at first, but when I did, it was very interesting. I was glad to see a view of American in a steampunk-ish novel. Britain didn't have a monopoly on amazing scientists and inventors! There was a lot of the supernatural in this story, but at the same time, a lot of the plot turned on cleaver inventions. A nice mix. I'm hoping to read more about these characters, but maybe with less world-shattering problems.
June 15, 2015
This is a fun novel. To me it felt like Indiana Jones + Steampunk + old magic/ghosts. The steampunk technology was quite innovative, but I like how it was also merged with older magic and abilities such as someone who can talk to ghosts, and prophecy. If you enjoy a good adventure story with fun characters, you should definitely check out this novel!
I received an ARC of this novel in exchange for an honest review.
I received an ARC of this novel in exchange for an honest review.
February 9, 2016
I haven't read a lot of steampunk novels, but this seems pretty typical of what I've read so far. Minimal character development, lots and lots of action. The book was a lot of fun to read, but I didn't come off with a deep need to know what's going on with the characters next. Reminds me a bit of a Clive Cussler novel or a James Bond movie. Pure escapism without much depth.
I would read another in the series though, because it was fun.
I would read another in the series though, because it was fun.
July 19, 2015
A fun and entertaining romp through the steampunk genre. The characters were well-developed and the plot was well-laid... My only issue is that the plot was laid out from the very beginning and the only surprises were from the point of view of the protagonists.
I'd definitely read a sequel if one became available.
I'd definitely read a sequel if one became available.
January 16, 2016
Excellent adventure, loved it.
January 17, 2016
Very fast-paced, entertaining, every happens, but they all survive AND solve the mystery. A lot of fun. Hope there will be more.
September 3, 2022
As alternate history adventures go, Iron & Blood was a heck of a lot of fun. There's a nice mix here of science fiction, pulp adventure, mystery, and supernatural horror, with some interesting commentary on the clash between magic and science that serves to keep it all in context. While I didn't find this to be as memorable as Gail Z. Martin's epic fantasies, the collaboration with Larry Martin has certainly introduced some fun elements that I felt were absent from her urban fantasies.
Rather surprisingly, what I found myself enjoying most about the novel was the mystery element involving Drostan Fletcher. He was, by far, the most interesting character in the story, blending the early deductive genius of Sherlock Holmes and C. Auguste Dupin with a more contemporary sort of sympathy and humanity. Seriously, if he were to spin off into his own series, I'd very much be interested in following his solo adventures.
Jake Desmet and Rick Brand are perfectly suitable protagonists, but they just lacked that indefinable quality that makes them truly exciting. I liked them, and thought they developed well throughout the course of the story, but I'm not entirely sure I would have felt compelled to read through to the end for their sakes alone. Instead, it's the supporting cast - including Nicki LeClercq, Adam Farber, Mark Kovach, and Drostan Fletcher - who kept me reading. Nicki is a really fun heroine, a woman who can more than hold her own against the boys, both in terms of banter and action - especially with the weapons hidden in her corset. Adam, meanwhile, is your typical over-the-top inventor, a genius with a child-like sense of wonder at his own steampunk technology, while Mark is the battered rifleman who trusts nothing as much as the cold steel of the gun in his hands.
This is one of those books that gets both bigger and sillier as it progresses. Each time the magical danger level rises, so does the technological innovation level. There is, no doubt, at least one scene or invention that each reader will think is just too much, but that's part of the appeal for me. I actually like that moment of eye-rolling, that loud guffaw, so long as the authors reign things in and allow the characters to carry us through to the end. Fortunately, that's precisely what Gail and Larry do here, never forgetting that it's a story about people first, and everything else second.
My one major complaint with the novel is the pacing/structure. Early on, I felt like we were missing out on too much, having adventures recapped and summarized instead of allowing us to experience them. I know a lot of that was background building, but it approached the level of info dumping and actually proved to be a bit of a distraction. Also, there's a very odd decision to halt the story and change perspectives just before we get to the climax, which I felt robbed the story of its momentum. I understand why they did it, and there's value in that shift, I just think it could have been handled better.
Overall, my minor quibbles aside, Iron & Blood was a fun read. There are some big threads left dangling for a sequel, and I know there are a series of short stories planned, so I doubt this is the last we'll see of the gang.
Originally reviewed at Beauty in Ruins
Rather surprisingly, what I found myself enjoying most about the novel was the mystery element involving Drostan Fletcher. He was, by far, the most interesting character in the story, blending the early deductive genius of Sherlock Holmes and C. Auguste Dupin with a more contemporary sort of sympathy and humanity. Seriously, if he were to spin off into his own series, I'd very much be interested in following his solo adventures.
Jake Desmet and Rick Brand are perfectly suitable protagonists, but they just lacked that indefinable quality that makes them truly exciting. I liked them, and thought they developed well throughout the course of the story, but I'm not entirely sure I would have felt compelled to read through to the end for their sakes alone. Instead, it's the supporting cast - including Nicki LeClercq, Adam Farber, Mark Kovach, and Drostan Fletcher - who kept me reading. Nicki is a really fun heroine, a woman who can more than hold her own against the boys, both in terms of banter and action - especially with the weapons hidden in her corset. Adam, meanwhile, is your typical over-the-top inventor, a genius with a child-like sense of wonder at his own steampunk technology, while Mark is the battered rifleman who trusts nothing as much as the cold steel of the gun in his hands.
This is one of those books that gets both bigger and sillier as it progresses. Each time the magical danger level rises, so does the technological innovation level. There is, no doubt, at least one scene or invention that each reader will think is just too much, but that's part of the appeal for me. I actually like that moment of eye-rolling, that loud guffaw, so long as the authors reign things in and allow the characters to carry us through to the end. Fortunately, that's precisely what Gail and Larry do here, never forgetting that it's a story about people first, and everything else second.
My one major complaint with the novel is the pacing/structure. Early on, I felt like we were missing out on too much, having adventures recapped and summarized instead of allowing us to experience them. I know a lot of that was background building, but it approached the level of info dumping and actually proved to be a bit of a distraction. Also, there's a very odd decision to halt the story and change perspectives just before we get to the climax, which I felt robbed the story of its momentum. I understand why they did it, and there's value in that shift, I just think it could have been handled better.
Overall, my minor quibbles aside, Iron & Blood was a fun read. There are some big threads left dangling for a sequel, and I know there are a series of short stories planned, so I doubt this is the last we'll see of the gang.
Originally reviewed at Beauty in Ruins
October 6, 2023
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Review Copy of this book.
3.5 stars
There are a lot of characters and moving pieces in this story and the story bounces between several of them. It made it a little hard to keep track at times. I'll admit Steampunk is not my favorite genre, but the story did lean a bit more to the paranormal end of the genre. I did really like Adam's quirky (and often dangerous) inventions, as well as Rick's interest in the new tech. Honestly, Jake is supposed to be one of the MCs in the series, but I found him a bit bland compared to some of the other characters. Nikki was an riot. I'd be interested to see what trouble this team gets up to in the next adventure.
*I had read Storm & Fury: A Storm & Fury Adventures Collection (set in the same universe), but that was over 4 years ago. So there were a few things that were familiar, but not a fresh memory. I'd recommend reading Storm & Fury before you read this book.
3.5 stars
There are a lot of characters and moving pieces in this story and the story bounces between several of them. It made it a little hard to keep track at times. I'll admit Steampunk is not my favorite genre, but the story did lean a bit more to the paranormal end of the genre. I did really like Adam's quirky (and often dangerous) inventions, as well as Rick's interest in the new tech. Honestly, Jake is supposed to be one of the MCs in the series, but I found him a bit bland compared to some of the other characters. Nikki was an riot. I'd be interested to see what trouble this team gets up to in the next adventure.
*I had read Storm & Fury: A Storm & Fury Adventures Collection (set in the same universe), but that was over 4 years ago. So there were a few things that were familiar, but not a fresh memory. I'd recommend reading Storm & Fury before you read this book.
November 24, 2025
Do not recommend.
There is so much Deus Ex Machina, it is not even funny. Every instance of the characters getting in some unwinnable situation, someone shows up to help saying "So and so thought you may need backup." Why do they never show up before the last moment? Why do they not travel with them into the bad situation? How come they never show up 5 minutes too late? It is silly and contrived.
This book seems to be a power fantasy. The protagonist and their associates are all the best at what they do in the entire world. They have the best pilot (the co-pilot is the second best), the best sharpshooter, and the best scientist in the world. They work with one of the most powerful witches in the entire world.
There is way too much dialogue. The characters often have to state the obvious after it was shown to the reader and the characters. One character is supposed to speak French, it is a main part of the character's backstory, but they only say the same French curse words over and over, while adding nothing of substance.
The epilogue seems so unnecessary. I really wanted to read a page of how the antagonist hides his assets.
There is so much Deus Ex Machina, it is not even funny. Every instance of the characters getting in some unwinnable situation, someone shows up to help saying "So and so thought you may need backup." Why do they never show up before the last moment? Why do they not travel with them into the bad situation? How come they never show up 5 minutes too late? It is silly and contrived.
This book seems to be a power fantasy. The protagonist and their associates are all the best at what they do in the entire world. They have the best pilot (the co-pilot is the second best), the best sharpshooter, and the best scientist in the world. They work with one of the most powerful witches in the entire world.
There is way too much dialogue. The characters often have to state the obvious after it was shown to the reader and the characters. One character is supposed to speak French, it is a main part of the character's backstory, but they only say the same French curse words over and over, while adding nothing of substance.
The epilogue seems so unnecessary. I really wanted to read a page of how the antagonist hides his assets.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 21, 2023
The author's signature style translates very well from epic fantasy and paranormal urban fantasy to steampunk fantasy. This novel gave me chills, both of delight and of fright, combining as it does a murder mystery worthy of Sherlock Holmes, horror suspense reminiscent of Nate Garrett, and rollicking adventure worthy of the Scarlet Pimpernel. As epic as the author's creation is, what made the characters real for me were the childhood stories early in the book. How can I not relate to the youthful adventurers trying to rescue the sleeping prince? The way that little story tied the characters together really made this novel hang together, along with their continuing (or so I hope) quest to visit justice upon a certain witch.
I received an ARC from the author and I am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received an ARC from the author and I am voluntarily leaving a review.
September 25, 2023
Jake Desmet along with his cousin Nicki Leclercq and his best friend Rick Brand are on what they think is a routine assignment for Brand & Desmet, the import company owned by their fathers. Unfortunately, what should have been a relatively simple acquisition for one of the company's wealthy clients turns deadly.
Exciting, action-packed steampunk adventure with murder, magic, witches, as well as other supernaturals, and evil creatures that go bump in the night come to life. Fascinating, unique, and well written characters that are engaging in their interactions and keep a reader engrossed in their story from the first page to the last. Fantastic book that I highly recommend to other readers.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.
Exciting, action-packed steampunk adventure with murder, magic, witches, as well as other supernaturals, and evil creatures that go bump in the night come to life. Fascinating, unique, and well written characters that are engaging in their interactions and keep a reader engrossed in their story from the first page to the last. Fantastic book that I highly recommend to other readers.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.
August 1, 2018
Well...a fun romp but it suffers from too many heroes. In the first two chapters I count five people who could be the hero. Most of them have more defined attributes than the actual hero, Jake, whose sole claim to personality seems to be that he's a good chap in a fight.
I also was mildly annoyed at the repetition of some facts. It's like one author put in something and then the other author thought "wpoh, we can't forget this" and then no one actually edited the narrative to make a good flow.
Like other reviewers, the only part I really found myself sucked into was Drosten Fletcher's sections. I would love to see more about him but given that this is "book 1" and nothing further has come out in three years, that probably a vain hope.
I also was mildly annoyed at the repetition of some facts. It's like one author put in something and then the other author thought "wpoh, we can't forget this" and then no one actually edited the narrative to make a good flow.
Like other reviewers, the only part I really found myself sucked into was Drosten Fletcher's sections. I would love to see more about him but given that this is "book 1" and nothing further has come out in three years, that probably a vain hope.
February 18, 2018
An off the wall steampunk set in 1898 Pittsburgh where magic works alongside the advanced tech. Jake Desmet works for a family company that recovers artifacts and antiques from owners of dubious provenance. When his father is killed, Jake and his friends are embroiled in finding and stopping the killer, which ties in with a series of supernatural killings in the city. Fast moving, fun and lively, though it did get overcrowded (throwing in Jack the Ripper and the federal agents after him). Fair warning, Gail's a friend of mine, but the review is nonetheless sincere.
July 1, 2019
I really enjoyed the story and loved the characters. It’s probably the best steam punk book I’ve ever read. The only bit that confused things a little bit was the amount of characters! There were so many but they were all so interesting I kind of wished they were split off in to threes and all had their own separate books so I could focus on them better. Writing was good tho, usually I can’t keep track of that many people.
August 26, 2023
IRON AND BLOOD by Gail Z. Martin and Larry N. Martin, Jake Desmet Adventure Book One
IRON AND BLOOD is a steampunk action adventure filled with daring escapades, armed airships, vengeful vampires, magic, mad doctors, quirky inventors, clockwork zombies, and loyal friends. Woo-wee! What an adrenaline-fueled ride . . . so unexpected, one never knows what will happen next! As a team, Gail and Larry Martin have created an outstanding book.
IRON AND BLOOD is a steampunk action adventure filled with daring escapades, armed airships, vengeful vampires, magic, mad doctors, quirky inventors, clockwork zombies, and loyal friends. Woo-wee! What an adrenaline-fueled ride . . . so unexpected, one never knows what will happen next! As a team, Gail and Larry Martin have created an outstanding book.
September 24, 2023
The story follows Jake, Rick, and Nicki as they travel and attempt to fulfil a mission when they are interrupted by dangers in New Pittsburgh. This is a friends- and family-orientated book, lengthy, and contains plenty of action and genre elements.
I received a free copy and am leaving a review voluntarily.
Thank you to Hidden Gems Books and author.
I received a free copy and am leaving a review voluntarily.
Thank you to Hidden Gems Books and author.
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