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Into the Aether: A collection of steampunk short stories by PJ Schnyder
Journey Into the Aether with award-winning author PJ Schnyder in a collection of daring and sometimes explosive adventures: In Evie's Gift, Evie travels to England with her brother to find a sponsor for her first season in London. She's finding much more than intended, including an enemy submarine bent on destroying the airship carrying them across the ocean and a conspirator responsible for sabotaging her host's mechanicals. In A Swan in Siam, Agent John M. Alvey of the Ministry of Peculiar Occurrences searches for the source of a swan feather of peculiar properties in the court of the King of Siam and encounters both an assassin and a living legend. Plus in the new, never before published Keeping Cadence, fiery Cadence is assigned as both gun expert and bodyguard when the senior crew of the Airship Vulpes is hired to transport precious cargo. Things never go as planned, but the two things Cadence can rely on like clockwork are her captain's explosive temper and the opportunity for a good fight.
- GenresSteampunkAnthologies
138 pages, Paperback
First published March 26, 2015
12 people want to read
About the author
P.J. Schnyder
13 books99 followersBorn and raised in the North East, PJ Schnyder spent her childhood pretending to study for the SATs by reading every fantasy and sci-fi novel she could borrow from the local and school libraries. She scored fairly high in the verbal portion.
She was introduced to the wonderful world of romance a decade later by her best friend at an anime convention in Seattle.
She now lives somewhere temperate watching the seasons go by with her two dogs and super stealthy ninja kitty, writing her stories.
PJ would love to hear from you. Whether it’s questions or comments regarding her stories or this website, please feel free to email her.
She was introduced to the wonderful world of romance a decade later by her best friend at an anime convention in Seattle.
She now lives somewhere temperate watching the seasons go by with her two dogs and super stealthy ninja kitty, writing her stories.
PJ would love to hear from you. Whether it’s questions or comments regarding her stories or this website, please feel free to email her.
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Displaying 1 - 5 of 5 reviews
May 16, 2015
This review is taken from a joint review I wrote with Una at That's What I'm Talking About. To see the full review, click here: http://twimom227.com/2015/05/joint-re...
This is only my part of the review:
Which was your favorite story in the anthology and why? Tough question since I enjoyed all three stories.
Jen: My favorite is Keeping Cadence. I found Cadence to be one of those favorite flawed, but super strong heroines that I could read about over and over. I also appreciate that it is a complete package with a strong storyline and sweet ending.
What was your favorite steampunk mech in the book?
Jen: I LOVED Evie’s mech “pet,” Toby, from Evie's Gift. While it’s probably the most far-fetched piece of machinery, I loved how it worked with Evie’s unique gift and helped in all sorts of situations (like pinning up her hair or torn dress).
Since you are a fan of the Ministry of Peculiar Occurrences books by Pip Ballantine and Tee Morris, how well do you feel PJ's story fit into the frame work?
Oh, this short story was really well done and fit perfectly into the Ministry world. And learning some unique mythology - something not from the UK - was exceptionally interesting and intriguing. I could totally imagine Books and Braun going to Siam some day and meeting Phailin.
Did you have any issues/concerns with any of the stories? If so, what?
I really loved Evie’s Gift, but I was also really frustrated by it. When it ended, I was completely surprised that it was over. It was more of a prequel than a short story. I was really getting into the story right up until it abruptly ended. I found Evie so fascinating and her prospects for romance were equally exciting. I expected the story to go on because there was so much left to tell, and then BAM! the story was over. I was frustrated by that.
Overall, how would you rate the anthology and what audiences would you recommend it to?
Overall I enjoyed the anthology quite a bit. It’s very short and easy to read in snippets here and there, whenever I had time. It’s a great sample of steampunk for those who may want to try but haven’t yet. It’s also fun for those who already love the genre. I like that each story had a different feel - different setting and time period, so you get a really nice cross-section of the genre. It’s like a sampler box of chocolates - you eat them up so quickly, only left wanting more.
Into the Aether is a wonderful collection of stories, and I recommend it for fans of and those interested in reading steampunk.
My Rating: B+ Liked It A Lot
This is only my part of the review:
Which was your favorite story in the anthology and why? Tough question since I enjoyed all three stories.
Jen: My favorite is Keeping Cadence. I found Cadence to be one of those favorite flawed, but super strong heroines that I could read about over and over. I also appreciate that it is a complete package with a strong storyline and sweet ending.
What was your favorite steampunk mech in the book?
Jen: I LOVED Evie’s mech “pet,” Toby, from Evie's Gift. While it’s probably the most far-fetched piece of machinery, I loved how it worked with Evie’s unique gift and helped in all sorts of situations (like pinning up her hair or torn dress).
Since you are a fan of the Ministry of Peculiar Occurrences books by Pip Ballantine and Tee Morris, how well do you feel PJ's story fit into the frame work?
Oh, this short story was really well done and fit perfectly into the Ministry world. And learning some unique mythology - something not from the UK - was exceptionally interesting and intriguing. I could totally imagine Books and Braun going to Siam some day and meeting Phailin.
Did you have any issues/concerns with any of the stories? If so, what?
I really loved Evie’s Gift, but I was also really frustrated by it. When it ended, I was completely surprised that it was over. It was more of a prequel than a short story. I was really getting into the story right up until it abruptly ended. I found Evie so fascinating and her prospects for romance were equally exciting. I expected the story to go on because there was so much left to tell, and then BAM! the story was over. I was frustrated by that.
Overall, how would you rate the anthology and what audiences would you recommend it to?
Overall I enjoyed the anthology quite a bit. It’s very short and easy to read in snippets here and there, whenever I had time. It’s a great sample of steampunk for those who may want to try but haven’t yet. It’s also fun for those who already love the genre. I like that each story had a different feel - different setting and time period, so you get a really nice cross-section of the genre. It’s like a sampler box of chocolates - you eat them up so quickly, only left wanting more.
Into the Aether is a wonderful collection of stories, and I recommend it for fans of and those interested in reading steampunk.
My Rating: B+ Liked It A Lot
May 19, 2015
Initial Thoughts: Into the Aether is a collection of three short stories all within the steampunk genre. The first, Evie's Gift was a prequel to me. It introduces a fascinating girl and an intrigue. Though part of it is resolved, there is obviously more to it. This was just enough to wet my appetite for more. I really enjoyed Evie and Captain Corwin. When it ended, I wanted so much more.
The second story, A Swan in Siam, was another fascinating and enchanting tale. Also steampunk, it combines that world with legend and magic. I really enjoyed this short and sweet story. Again, I felt at the end that the author left enough to return to this world. Alvey was very likable character and I enjoyed his open enthusiasm compared with the mysterious Phailin. Though the conflict was short and sweet, the characters and the world left a huge impression on me. I hope for more.
The final story, Keeping Cadence is the longest. If the first two are short stories, this one is a novella. The story of Cadence and Jonathon was another mesmerizing tale. I enjoyed the action and romance of this novella. Though a love at first sight type of story, it was still fraught with conflict and action. Out of the three, this story has a more solid conclusion and I enjoyed it's HEA ending. Though, it would be easy for the author to return to the crew of the Vulpes for more stories.
All in all a wonderful collection of stories. Please click on the link to the joint review with Jen Twimom posted at That What I'm Talking About blog: http://twimom227.com/2015/05/joint-re...
The second story, A Swan in Siam, was another fascinating and enchanting tale. Also steampunk, it combines that world with legend and magic. I really enjoyed this short and sweet story. Again, I felt at the end that the author left enough to return to this world. Alvey was very likable character and I enjoyed his open enthusiasm compared with the mysterious Phailin. Though the conflict was short and sweet, the characters and the world left a huge impression on me. I hope for more.
The final story, Keeping Cadence is the longest. If the first two are short stories, this one is a novella. The story of Cadence and Jonathon was another mesmerizing tale. I enjoyed the action and romance of this novella. Though a love at first sight type of story, it was still fraught with conflict and action. Out of the three, this story has a more solid conclusion and I enjoyed it's HEA ending. Though, it would be easy for the author to return to the crew of the Vulpes for more stories.
All in all a wonderful collection of stories. Please click on the link to the joint review with Jen Twimom posted at That What I'm Talking About blog: http://twimom227.com/2015/05/joint-re...
June 1, 2015
Steampunky fun
I really enjoyed rereading the first two short stories along with reading the third story for the first time. While there is no romance in a Swan in Siam, Evie's Gift always gave me the impression of future courting opportunies and Keeping Cadence was a fun filled airship romp where the h was drawn to her man even while she had to protect him. I would love a pair of her boots lol.
I really enjoyed rereading the first two short stories along with reading the third story for the first time. While there is no romance in a Swan in Siam, Evie's Gift always gave me the impression of future courting opportunies and Keeping Cadence was a fun filled airship romp where the h was drawn to her man even while she had to protect him. I would love a pair of her boots lol.
February 28, 2016
For me steampunk needs toys and gadgets. P.J. delivers! Toby in the first story, the boots in Keeping Cadence.
****FULL REVIEW****
For me steampunk needs toys and gadgets. P.J. delivers! Toby in the first story, the boots in Keeping Cadence. Oh each story had wonderful gadgets that caught my eye! I enjoyed these stories with action and romance in one place.
Evie's Gift
Evie catches the attention of Captain Alec Corwin on her journey to London with her brother, Jeffrey. Evie can't lead on to her special gift or her pleasure in mechanicals as woman aren't to be tinkerers. Her job is to charm their hosts this holiday while Jeffrey forms connections with the British aristocracy for their family foundry. Captain Alec Corwin comes to dinner at the hosts home and finds he's attracted to the stubborn Evie, but enjoys seeing her infatuation with the machines Lord Weatherly has created. Yet, Alec is curious how Evie was aware of troubles that brewed in the deep ocean so high in the sky.
Oh I enjoyed this short story. P.J. caught my attention in the first chapter. We see Evie is special but not exactly sure what that is yet. We see trouble and it's aimed at the ship our characters are flying in! Why? I didn't know, but the adrenaline is pumping and I needed to find out. Oh the curiosity.
We get POVs from Evie and Captain Alec Corwin. Evie and Alec are strong personalities and get under each other's skin. It does make me smile at the attraction and fire between them.
Evie is my kind of lady. Sure, she's not looked upon as proper by the British Ladies, but she is a woman of her own standing. I love the influence Evie has on Angelica, Lord Weatherly's grand daughter. She has a sense about her when around metals. And her connection with Toby! Oh my! Toby is adorable! He's her watch, or beret or buckle or squirrel perched on her shoulder. Yes, he is all these things. He is like a little pet that is true to Evie's feelings. I want a Toby! Alec sounds like a dashing young man. He's also curious about Evie. But Evie worries about what people would think when they learn her secret.
I would love to read of Evie on more adventures and further with what we see here. Many great elements that would be lovely to see more.
A Swan in Siam
I listened to this story in the Tales From the Archives series. And it was a pleasure to read it again. My review from the first time hearing the story, holds true even now:
Agent John Alvey makes a journey to South East Asia, Siam, to search for a peculiar swan in a native land it should not be. Phailin, a secreted special guard to the King of Siam, takes notice of Agent Alvey, for taking notice and understanding in a foreign culture, where the ambassador from his country has not. Will Agent Alvey find the swan he's looking for, while someone tries to assassinate the King?
This was an interesting little tale. We learn of a whole culture here in Siam, and get the feel for the secretive Phailin, in the beginning.
We do have steam equipment, as always. :) There is a steam mechanical music box, brought as a gift for the King. Interesting! I really liked this, and I think I would like one...when first saw it. Then, the getaway used by the guilty party is neat too, but I have to say it's not quite as exciting as Phailin's way of following the person. And the extras she can do.
This story not only has steampunk, but also a blend of magic as well. Old magic. Very nice blend of the two here. In the end, I enjoyed this story as well. We get a historical tale, magic, steampunk, and bullets and bombs. What else can you ask for?
Keeping Cadence
The senior crew of the airship Vulpes has been out in the air for weeks, now they are at port and the woman are enjoying their time with others. Cadence is the weapons officer and the one that seals the deal with their next job. She's to validate the shipment their client wants to purchase in New London. Jonathan Archer, a talented clankerton and sponsored by their new client, has caught Cadence's eye with his gold hair and green eyes. All Jonathan wants is to go to Paris and participate in Exposition Universelle with his invention. But, unless he can play his cards right and get help, his sponsor's plans might not let him live long enough to get there.
Oh Cadence's boots! These are sooooo coooool! I want a pair. And what we learn of the boots through the story is rather fascinating. Cadence is one amazingly strong woman. I would love to have her as a friend.
I love the strong, kick arse woman here. Like airship pirates with a conscience. I was taken with the setting for this story. I would love to see these woman all again in the future. Though this is a complete story for Cadence.
If you enjoy romance and steampunk, this is totally your story. Jonathan is hot! I loved him from the first moment I saw him. He held my attentions and increased in attraction with his answers/reactions to everything he learned. There are sensual scenes in this story, making it adult material.
*There are a few small editing errors, but I so enjoyed the stories here that I overlooked them.
****FULL REVIEW****
For me steampunk needs toys and gadgets. P.J. delivers! Toby in the first story, the boots in Keeping Cadence. Oh each story had wonderful gadgets that caught my eye! I enjoyed these stories with action and romance in one place.
Evie's Gift
Evie catches the attention of Captain Alec Corwin on her journey to London with her brother, Jeffrey. Evie can't lead on to her special gift or her pleasure in mechanicals as woman aren't to be tinkerers. Her job is to charm their hosts this holiday while Jeffrey forms connections with the British aristocracy for their family foundry. Captain Alec Corwin comes to dinner at the hosts home and finds he's attracted to the stubborn Evie, but enjoys seeing her infatuation with the machines Lord Weatherly has created. Yet, Alec is curious how Evie was aware of troubles that brewed in the deep ocean so high in the sky.
Oh I enjoyed this short story. P.J. caught my attention in the first chapter. We see Evie is special but not exactly sure what that is yet. We see trouble and it's aimed at the ship our characters are flying in! Why? I didn't know, but the adrenaline is pumping and I needed to find out. Oh the curiosity.
We get POVs from Evie and Captain Alec Corwin. Evie and Alec are strong personalities and get under each other's skin. It does make me smile at the attraction and fire between them.
Evie is my kind of lady. Sure, she's not looked upon as proper by the British Ladies, but she is a woman of her own standing. I love the influence Evie has on Angelica, Lord Weatherly's grand daughter. She has a sense about her when around metals. And her connection with Toby! Oh my! Toby is adorable! He's her watch, or beret or buckle or squirrel perched on her shoulder. Yes, he is all these things. He is like a little pet that is true to Evie's feelings. I want a Toby! Alec sounds like a dashing young man. He's also curious about Evie. But Evie worries about what people would think when they learn her secret.
I would love to read of Evie on more adventures and further with what we see here. Many great elements that would be lovely to see more.
A Swan in Siam
I listened to this story in the Tales From the Archives series. And it was a pleasure to read it again. My review from the first time hearing the story, holds true even now:
Agent John Alvey makes a journey to South East Asia, Siam, to search for a peculiar swan in a native land it should not be. Phailin, a secreted special guard to the King of Siam, takes notice of Agent Alvey, for taking notice and understanding in a foreign culture, where the ambassador from his country has not. Will Agent Alvey find the swan he's looking for, while someone tries to assassinate the King?
This was an interesting little tale. We learn of a whole culture here in Siam, and get the feel for the secretive Phailin, in the beginning.
We do have steam equipment, as always. :) There is a steam mechanical music box, brought as a gift for the King. Interesting! I really liked this, and I think I would like one...when first saw it. Then, the getaway used by the guilty party is neat too, but I have to say it's not quite as exciting as Phailin's way of following the person. And the extras she can do.
This story not only has steampunk, but also a blend of magic as well. Old magic. Very nice blend of the two here. In the end, I enjoyed this story as well. We get a historical tale, magic, steampunk, and bullets and bombs. What else can you ask for?
Keeping Cadence
The senior crew of the airship Vulpes has been out in the air for weeks, now they are at port and the woman are enjoying their time with others. Cadence is the weapons officer and the one that seals the deal with their next job. She's to validate the shipment their client wants to purchase in New London. Jonathan Archer, a talented clankerton and sponsored by their new client, has caught Cadence's eye with his gold hair and green eyes. All Jonathan wants is to go to Paris and participate in Exposition Universelle with his invention. But, unless he can play his cards right and get help, his sponsor's plans might not let him live long enough to get there.
Oh Cadence's boots! These are sooooo coooool! I want a pair. And what we learn of the boots through the story is rather fascinating. Cadence is one amazingly strong woman. I would love to have her as a friend.
I love the strong, kick arse woman here. Like airship pirates with a conscience. I was taken with the setting for this story. I would love to see these woman all again in the future. Though this is a complete story for Cadence.
If you enjoy romance and steampunk, this is totally your story. Jonathan is hot! I loved him from the first moment I saw him. He held my attentions and increased in attraction with his answers/reactions to everything he learned. There are sensual scenes in this story, making it adult material.
*There are a few small editing errors, but I so enjoyed the stories here that I overlooked them.
March 22, 2016
This was a nice collection of short stories. Steampunk airships, mechanicals, and biometrics. Even a touch paranormal in the first two. The third was a little racier. More romance. Each story was different with very different characters. Each enjoyable. Made me want more. A fun read.
Displaying 1 - 5 of 5 reviews