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Soul Chronicles #1
Tainted
What Happens When Your Soul Dies?
Kat Bloodmayne is one of the first women chosen to attend the Tower Academy of Sciences. But she carries a secret: she can twist the natural laws of science. She has no idea where this ability came from, only that every time she loses control and unleashes this power, it kills a part of her soul. If she doesn't find a cure soon, her soul will die and she will become something else entirely.
After a devastating personal loss, Stephen Grey leaves the World City Police Force to become a bounty hunter. He believes in justice and will stop at nothing to ensure criminals are caught and locked up. However, when Kat Bloodmayne shows up in his office seeking his help, his world is turned upside down.
Together they search World City and beyond for a doctor who can cure Kat. But what they discover on the way goes beyond science and into the dark sphere of magic.
Kat Bloodmayne is one of the first women chosen to attend the Tower Academy of Sciences. But she carries a secret: she can twist the natural laws of science. She has no idea where this ability came from, only that every time she loses control and unleashes this power, it kills a part of her soul. If she doesn't find a cure soon, her soul will die and she will become something else entirely.
After a devastating personal loss, Stephen Grey leaves the World City Police Force to become a bounty hunter. He believes in justice and will stop at nothing to ensure criminals are caught and locked up. However, when Kat Bloodmayne shows up in his office seeking his help, his world is turned upside down.
Together they search World City and beyond for a doctor who can cure Kat. But what they discover on the way goes beyond science and into the dark sphere of magic.
304 pages, Paperback
Published April 15, 2016
51 people are currently reading
2644 people want to read
About the author
Morgan L. Busse
21 books1,234 followersMorgan L. Busse is a writer by day and a mother by night. She is the author of the Follower of the Word series and the award-winning steampunk series, The Soul Chronicles. Her debut novel, Daughter of Light, was a Christy and Carol Award finalist. During her spare time she enjoys playing games, taking long walks, and dreaming about her next novel.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 149 reviews
November 8, 2022
About this book:
“What Happens When Your Soul Dies?
Kat Bloodmayne is one of the first women chosen to attend the Tower Academy of Sciences. But she carries a secret: she can twist the natural laws of science. She has no idea where this ability came from, only that every time she loses control and unleashes this power, it kills a part of her soul. If she doesn't find a cure soon, her soul will die and she will become something else entirely.
After a devastating personal loss, Stephen Grey leaves the World City Police Force to become a bounty hunter. He believes in justice and will stop at nothing to ensure criminals are caught and locked up. However, when Kat Bloodmayne shows up in his office seeking his help, his world is turned upside down.
Together they search World City and beyond for a doctor who can cure Kat. But what they discover on the way goes beyond science and into the dark sphere of magic.”
Series: Book #1 in the “Soul Chronicles” duology.
Spiritual Content- Prayers & Thanking God; 'H's are not capital when referring to God; Kat recalls that her father never put stock in religion or anything spiritual (when the housekeeper tried to tell Kat stories about God, her father was very upset about it and Kat hasn’t been told anything else since then); Kat knows very little about God except He “lived in churches or something” and was powerful (she tries praying, saying that if He is real, to please help her); Stephen has a faith in the first couple chapters, but after an upsetting event, it’s said that he walked away from God (but he still believes in God and later prays); Stephen wonders if God will help him and Kat (describing themselves as “a heathen woman scientist and a broken man who had walked away a long time ago”); Mentions of God; Mentions of prayers & praying; Mentions of church going, church bells, & a minister; A few mentions of thanking God; A mention of Bible reading; A mention of a man looking like a vicar; A mention of a man having a grudge at religion & baiting Stephen whenever possible;
*Note: During one of the times Kat releases her powers, it’s described as “darkness spread across her eyes, and she heard laughter—high-pitched and eerie. It was her but not her. As if she had split in two and the other Kat was in control.” (Stephen thinks of her a demon or a monster or a witch from an old fairytale (though he says there’s no such there as magic) and that she is dangerous); Kat thinks there’s an evil dwelling inside of her; Stephen thinks that his line of work has taught him that everyone has “a core of darkness inside” of them; A scientist wants to be able to bring the dead back to life; A handful of mentions of souls & a scientist saying there is “no disconnect between the physical and spiritual”; A couple mentions of ghost stories; A mention of imagining a ghost; A mention of hell freezing over (because something happened); A mention of a lie that’s “from the pit of hell”; A mention of a man’s facial hair making him look devilish; A mention of Kat’s powers being described as “witchcraft” by someone who saw it happen; A mention of a scientist using “pagan rituals of old” in his experiments; A mention of a dark and evil place.
Negative Content- Minor cussing including: a ‘how in the—‘, an ‘idiot’, a ‘shut up’, two ‘cogglesfoot’s, three ‘blast it’s, five ‘what the—‘s, eight ‘what the blazes’s, and nine ‘blazes’s; Mentions of curses (said, not written); Some eye rolling & sarcasm; Fires, Pain, Injuries, Blood/Bleeding, Being injected by a needle, & Passing out (up to semi-detailed); Knocking someone out, Kicking someone, Fighting, Being hit/punched, Gunfire/Shootouts, Shooting at others (self-defense and at a runaway criminal), Being Shot, Seeing others shot, Pain, & Blood/Bleeding (up to semi-detailed); Being tied up & tested on (up to semi-detailed); Nightmares & Recalling past events that were like nightmares (in regards to Kat activating her powers and Stephen with something Kat told him about, up to semi-detailed); Stephen aims his gun at someone who has betrayed him, thinking of killing that person (he is talked out of it and knows they aren’t worth the prison time); To forget upsetting events, Kat gets drunk on wine (semi-detailed); Kat has a power that when she gets very emotional, she can cause fires from her hands, attract objects, throw people or objects hard, & freeze time (After it happens, she passes out and is then numb once awakening (she has to calm down a few times & is unsuccessful a couple times; it’s said to releases “another side of her” and that scares both herself and Stephen)); After an upsetting event, Kat thinks it would be best to go to a bridge and end it all (her housekeeper tells her that she won’t lose her and to stop talking about ending her life); Kat thinks she is a monster due to her powers & should have died instead of someone else (she wonders if she’s even human or possibly a lab mistake); Kat longs for her father’s approval & attention; There are comments from men and women that are not happy about the first group of women (which includes Kat) being accepted to a university; All about many, many mentions of ill people disappearing (a scientist says that they were going to die anyway), grave robbers, dead bodies, testing on humans, dissecting humans, the smell of decay, seeing it happen, & scientists trying to bring the dead back to life (up to semi-detailed); Mentions of wars; Mentions of fires, smoke, screams, others in pain, & injuries/burns (up to semi-detailed); Mentions of bounty hunters (including ones that inflict a lot of pain on the people they are capturing), murderers, criminals, crimes, thugs, mob bosses, & gangs; Mentions of weapons (guns, truncheons, tasers), gunfire/shootouts, shooting at others (self-defense), seeing others shot, being shot, being shot at, fighting, fights, & a murder/death (up to semi-detailed): Mentions of injuries, pain, & blood/bleeding (up to semi-detailed); Mentions of riots & someone throwing excrement at Kat; Mentions of alcohol, drinking, drunks, hang overs, & taverns/bars (side characters drink, Kat gets drunk to forget about an event, & Stephen refuses to drink alcohol because he doesn’t want to be addicted); Mentions of smoking & cigars; Mentions of lies, lying, & liars; Mentions of rumors; Mentions of throwing up; A few mentions of memories that are like nightmares (up to semi-detailed); A few mentions of card games (implied betting/gambling based on Kat’s distaste of it); A few mentions of jealousy; A few mentions of tattoos; A couple mentions of jars of human body parts; A couple mentions of animal carcasses; A couple mentions of animal testing; A mention of someone looking like a puppy that was kicked over and over;
*Note: Stephen fights a young man who was badly burned & different comments such as the man barely looking human and thinking that he was an experiment are thought (up to semi-detailed on his looks).
Sexual Content- A fingers-to-lips touch, an almost cheek kiss, and a detailed kiss (in both point of views, happens when Kat is drunk, Stephen feels desire for her and later thinks that he took advantage of her); Recalling a kiss (barely-above-not-detailed); Wanting to kiss & desiring someone; Touches, Dancing, Hand holding, Warmth, Nearness, & Smelling (border-line barely-above-not-detailed // semi-detailed); Blushes; Noticing (including Kat’s curves and breasts (which Stephen tries not to look at), barely-above-not-detailed); A fiancée is caught in bed with another man (mentions him being shirtless and her pulling the covers up) *Slight Spoiler* ; A young man tries to corner Kat and her friend into giving him a kiss (her friend is very upset, barely-above-not-detailed); Mentions of kisses & kissing (barely-above-not-detailed); Mentions of a misunderstanding of Stephen thinking Kat has a lover & is pregnant (she does not & is not); Mentions of the affair, seeing the couple in bed together, & betrayal; Mentions of a dance hall (with mentions of the sign outside that promises a good time, Kat being horrified to go in there, the women in there selling more than just alcohol, & the women showing skin); Mentions of flirting, flirts, winks, & blushes; A few mentions of a man’s son who is called a cad and a scoundrel & scandals he’s had with maids; A couple mentions of men whistling, winking, & roving their eyes at Kat; A couple mentions of couples embracing; A mention of a conniving woman with a wandering heart; A mention of a guy looking at Kat’s face then his gaze traveling down; A mention of how an unmarried couple shouldn’t be alone together at night without a chaperone; A mention of Kat saying that it’s better to have an education than a husband because “at least you know what you’re getting with an education”; Love, falling in love, & the emotions;
*Note: Kat is stripped down into a thin nightgown that shows her curves and breasts; Mentions of women’s curves; A few mentions of a mother who died giving birth & the husband resenting their child because of it (*Spoiler* ); A few mentions of the women in a dancing hall showing a lot of their legs (Kat gasps in shock); A mention of a saloon/dance hall woman taking money into her cleavage; A mention of a woman’s low-cut gown (Stephen notices it).
-Kathryn “Kat” Bloodmayne
-Stephen Grey
P.O.V. switches between them & Dr. Bloodmayne (x2)
292 pages
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
Pre Teens- One Star
New Teens- One Star
Early High School Teens- Two Stars
Older High School Teens- Two Stars
My personal Rating- Two Stars
{Trigger warning for a couple mentions of Kat wanting to end it all after an upsetting event}
{Ratings are based on content}
Note to self: This author likes ending her books on a cliffhanger with a main character passed out. (Example 1)
I’ve had this book on my TBR for quite a while and it was definitely not what I expected it would be at all. I enjoyed the “Skyworld” duology by this author, but I’m not sure about my feelings for this book. I was very interested in this story at the beginning and the steampunk setting, but as the story continued, I became less and less excited about where the plot was heading. Particularly in the terms of human experiments and the romance. Even before Stephen royally messed up, I thought the romance elements between him and Kat happened very fast and was more physically attracted based. After his big mess up? I definitely don’t like the idea of a relationship between the two of them, personally.
I’m really bummed about not enjoying this one as much I hoped I would. I think I’ll still read the second book for answers, but I don’t have the highest expectations now.
Link to review:
https://booksforchristiangirls.blogsp...
*BFCG may (Read the review to see) recommend this book by this author. It does not mean I recommend all the books by this author.
“What Happens When Your Soul Dies?
Kat Bloodmayne is one of the first women chosen to attend the Tower Academy of Sciences. But she carries a secret: she can twist the natural laws of science. She has no idea where this ability came from, only that every time she loses control and unleashes this power, it kills a part of her soul. If she doesn't find a cure soon, her soul will die and she will become something else entirely.
After a devastating personal loss, Stephen Grey leaves the World City Police Force to become a bounty hunter. He believes in justice and will stop at nothing to ensure criminals are caught and locked up. However, when Kat Bloodmayne shows up in his office seeking his help, his world is turned upside down.
Together they search World City and beyond for a doctor who can cure Kat. But what they discover on the way goes beyond science and into the dark sphere of magic.”
Series: Book #1 in the “Soul Chronicles” duology.
Spiritual Content- Prayers & Thanking God; 'H's are not capital when referring to God; Kat recalls that her father never put stock in religion or anything spiritual (when the housekeeper tried to tell Kat stories about God, her father was very upset about it and Kat hasn’t been told anything else since then); Kat knows very little about God except He “lived in churches or something” and was powerful (she tries praying, saying that if He is real, to please help her); Stephen has a faith in the first couple chapters, but after an upsetting event, it’s said that he walked away from God (but he still believes in God and later prays); Stephen wonders if God will help him and Kat (describing themselves as “a heathen woman scientist and a broken man who had walked away a long time ago”); Mentions of God; Mentions of prayers & praying; Mentions of church going, church bells, & a minister; A few mentions of thanking God; A mention of Bible reading; A mention of a man looking like a vicar; A mention of a man having a grudge at religion & baiting Stephen whenever possible;
*Note: During one of the times Kat releases her powers, it’s described as “darkness spread across her eyes, and she heard laughter—high-pitched and eerie. It was her but not her. As if she had split in two and the other Kat was in control.” (Stephen thinks of her a demon or a monster or a witch from an old fairytale (though he says there’s no such there as magic) and that she is dangerous); Kat thinks there’s an evil dwelling inside of her; Stephen thinks that his line of work has taught him that everyone has “a core of darkness inside” of them; A scientist wants to be able to bring the dead back to life; A handful of mentions of souls & a scientist saying there is “no disconnect between the physical and spiritual”; A couple mentions of ghost stories; A mention of imagining a ghost; A mention of hell freezing over (because something happened); A mention of a lie that’s “from the pit of hell”; A mention of a man’s facial hair making him look devilish; A mention of Kat’s powers being described as “witchcraft” by someone who saw it happen; A mention of a scientist using “pagan rituals of old” in his experiments; A mention of a dark and evil place.
Negative Content- Minor cussing including: a ‘how in the—‘, an ‘idiot’, a ‘shut up’, two ‘cogglesfoot’s, three ‘blast it’s, five ‘what the—‘s, eight ‘what the blazes’s, and nine ‘blazes’s; Mentions of curses (said, not written); Some eye rolling & sarcasm; Fires, Pain, Injuries, Blood/Bleeding, Being injected by a needle, & Passing out (up to semi-detailed); Knocking someone out, Kicking someone, Fighting, Being hit/punched, Gunfire/Shootouts, Shooting at others (self-defense and at a runaway criminal), Being Shot, Seeing others shot, Pain, & Blood/Bleeding (up to semi-detailed); Being tied up & tested on (up to semi-detailed); Nightmares & Recalling past events that were like nightmares (in regards to Kat activating her powers and Stephen with something Kat told him about, up to semi-detailed); Stephen aims his gun at someone who has betrayed him, thinking of killing that person (he is talked out of it and knows they aren’t worth the prison time); To forget upsetting events, Kat gets drunk on wine (semi-detailed); Kat has a power that when she gets very emotional, she can cause fires from her hands, attract objects, throw people or objects hard, & freeze time (After it happens, she passes out and is then numb once awakening (she has to calm down a few times & is unsuccessful a couple times; it’s said to releases “another side of her” and that scares both herself and Stephen)); After an upsetting event, Kat thinks it would be best to go to a bridge and end it all (her housekeeper tells her that she won’t lose her and to stop talking about ending her life); Kat thinks she is a monster due to her powers & should have died instead of someone else (she wonders if she’s even human or possibly a lab mistake); Kat longs for her father’s approval & attention; There are comments from men and women that are not happy about the first group of women (which includes Kat) being accepted to a university; All about many, many mentions of ill people disappearing (a scientist says that they were going to die anyway), grave robbers, dead bodies, testing on humans, dissecting humans, the smell of decay, seeing it happen, & scientists trying to bring the dead back to life (up to semi-detailed); Mentions of wars; Mentions of fires, smoke, screams, others in pain, & injuries/burns (up to semi-detailed); Mentions of bounty hunters (including ones that inflict a lot of pain on the people they are capturing), murderers, criminals, crimes, thugs, mob bosses, & gangs; Mentions of weapons (guns, truncheons, tasers), gunfire/shootouts, shooting at others (self-defense), seeing others shot, being shot, being shot at, fighting, fights, & a murder/death (up to semi-detailed): Mentions of injuries, pain, & blood/bleeding (up to semi-detailed); Mentions of riots & someone throwing excrement at Kat; Mentions of alcohol, drinking, drunks, hang overs, & taverns/bars (side characters drink, Kat gets drunk to forget about an event, & Stephen refuses to drink alcohol because he doesn’t want to be addicted); Mentions of smoking & cigars; Mentions of lies, lying, & liars; Mentions of rumors; Mentions of throwing up; A few mentions of memories that are like nightmares (up to semi-detailed); A few mentions of card games (implied betting/gambling based on Kat’s distaste of it); A few mentions of jealousy; A few mentions of tattoos; A couple mentions of jars of human body parts; A couple mentions of animal carcasses; A couple mentions of animal testing; A mention of someone looking like a puppy that was kicked over and over;
*Note: Stephen fights a young man who was badly burned & different comments such as the man barely looking human and thinking that he was an experiment are thought (up to semi-detailed on his looks).
Sexual Content- A fingers-to-lips touch, an almost cheek kiss, and a detailed kiss (in both point of views, happens when Kat is drunk, Stephen feels desire for her and later thinks that he took advantage of her); Recalling a kiss (barely-above-not-detailed); Wanting to kiss & desiring someone; Touches, Dancing, Hand holding, Warmth, Nearness, & Smelling (border-line barely-above-not-detailed // semi-detailed); Blushes; Noticing (including Kat’s curves and breasts (which Stephen tries not to look at), barely-above-not-detailed); A fiancée is caught in bed with another man (mentions him being shirtless and her pulling the covers up) *Slight Spoiler* ; A young man tries to corner Kat and her friend into giving him a kiss (her friend is very upset, barely-above-not-detailed); Mentions of kisses & kissing (barely-above-not-detailed); Mentions of a misunderstanding of Stephen thinking Kat has a lover & is pregnant (she does not & is not); Mentions of the affair, seeing the couple in bed together, & betrayal; Mentions of a dance hall (with mentions of the sign outside that promises a good time, Kat being horrified to go in there, the women in there selling more than just alcohol, & the women showing skin); Mentions of flirting, flirts, winks, & blushes; A few mentions of a man’s son who is called a cad and a scoundrel & scandals he’s had with maids; A couple mentions of men whistling, winking, & roving their eyes at Kat; A couple mentions of couples embracing; A mention of a conniving woman with a wandering heart; A mention of a guy looking at Kat’s face then his gaze traveling down; A mention of how an unmarried couple shouldn’t be alone together at night without a chaperone; A mention of Kat saying that it’s better to have an education than a husband because “at least you know what you’re getting with an education”; Love, falling in love, & the emotions;
*Note: Kat is stripped down into a thin nightgown that shows her curves and breasts; Mentions of women’s curves; A few mentions of a mother who died giving birth & the husband resenting their child because of it (*Spoiler* ); A few mentions of the women in a dancing hall showing a lot of their legs (Kat gasps in shock); A mention of a saloon/dance hall woman taking money into her cleavage; A mention of a woman’s low-cut gown (Stephen notices it).
-Kathryn “Kat” Bloodmayne
-Stephen Grey
P.O.V. switches between them & Dr. Bloodmayne (x2)
292 pages
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
Pre Teens- One Star
New Teens- One Star
Early High School Teens- Two Stars
Older High School Teens- Two Stars
My personal Rating- Two Stars
{Trigger warning for a couple mentions of Kat wanting to end it all after an upsetting event}
{Ratings are based on content}
Note to self: This author likes ending her books on a cliffhanger with a main character passed out. (Example 1)
I’ve had this book on my TBR for quite a while and it was definitely not what I expected it would be at all. I enjoyed the “Skyworld” duology by this author, but I’m not sure about my feelings for this book. I was very interested in this story at the beginning and the steampunk setting, but as the story continued, I became less and less excited about where the plot was heading. Particularly in the terms of human experiments and the romance. Even before Stephen royally messed up, I thought the romance elements between him and Kat happened very fast and was more physically attracted based. After his big mess up? I definitely don’t like the idea of a relationship between the two of them, personally.
I’m really bummed about not enjoying this one as much I hoped I would. I think I’ll still read the second book for answers, but I don’t have the highest expectations now.
Link to review:
https://booksforchristiangirls.blogsp...
*BFCG may (Read the review to see) recommend this book by this author. It does not mean I recommend all the books by this author.
May 19, 2016
I was waiting on pins and needles until this book came out! I've read a few steampunk books, but so far, I've never read a Christian steampunk. Plus I loved Morgan Busse's Follower of the Word series, so I knew I'd get a treat.
This book didn't disappoint. The beginning started slow, but it built into an adventure as Kat and Stephen tried to evade bounty hunters. Some of the the twists at the end literally had me gasping outloud.
While Kat does have what might be called "powers," they aren't portrayed as magical. More mutant-like, and her powers certainly have a cost. They are portrayed as something that shouldn't exist, for good reason.
The Christianity aspect is very subtle. There are a few prayers, and both characters aren't totally sure what they believe about God. Yet, the themes were still clearly Christian, as much of the book deals with what happens when Man tries to use science to become God. Yet, the theme is done very well and doesn't come across as bashing.
For those who are sensitive to some things, there is some violence and an unmarried man and woman travel together alone (though always with separate rooms and proper distance). There is one time at the end where Kat is in a pretty compromising situation.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book and I can't wait for the next one!
This book didn't disappoint. The beginning started slow, but it built into an adventure as Kat and Stephen tried to evade bounty hunters. Some of the the twists at the end literally had me gasping outloud.
While Kat does have what might be called "powers," they aren't portrayed as magical. More mutant-like, and her powers certainly have a cost. They are portrayed as something that shouldn't exist, for good reason.
The Christianity aspect is very subtle. There are a few prayers, and both characters aren't totally sure what they believe about God. Yet, the themes were still clearly Christian, as much of the book deals with what happens when Man tries to use science to become God. Yet, the theme is done very well and doesn't come across as bashing.
For those who are sensitive to some things, there is some violence and an unmarried man and woman travel together alone (though always with separate rooms and proper distance). There is one time at the end where Kat is in a pretty compromising situation.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book and I can't wait for the next one!
January 11, 2018
This may have been the most awkward/confusing book ever.
Lovely Things:
- The plot. This was literally SO INTRIGUING. I could not put this book down, for that reason alone. Usually plots don't engage me THAT much - it's the characters who grab my attention - but this book had a solidly original plot.
- The setting. STEAMPUNKKKKK. I'm kind of a sucker for anything in that genre. :P The setting reminded me of Victorian London with airships and mechanical birds and creepy laboratories and bounty hunters. IT. WAS. EPIC. I'm completely sold on the setting, people.
- That cover, though. I'm sorry...shallow bookdragon here. (But seriously, this cover is lovely. <3)
- Kat was pretty decent. I actually am Very Confused about my thoughts on these characters, but Kat wasn't too bad. I mostly liked her?? More about the characters below.
Not-So-Lovely Things:
- IT'S SO AWKWARD. This whole book just felt really really awkward. I DON'T KNOW HOW TO EXPLAIN IT. The characters and emotions just felt really forced. It was like the author was visibly TRYING to make complex characters...and kind of failing at it. Dialogue felt unnatural. Characters felt unnatural. EVERYTHING JUST FELT UNNATURAL. *cringes*
- The characters. Was...was I actually supposed to like Stephen? Because EXCUSE ME, he was a bit of a jerk. He projected all his past experiences on Kat and was a jerk towards her for a lot of the book. AND THEN I'M SUPPOSED TO APPROVE OF THE ROMANCE BETWEEN THEM?? Um, no sir. That's not how healthy relationships work. Sure, I get that he had a bad experience in the past - but that doesn't give him any right to take that out on Kat. It's not her fault that you can't move on, Mr. Grey. :P And Kat? I guess I liked her for the most part...but like I said, everything in this book just felt really awkward, and that includes her.
- The romance. Excuse me while I go and pass out. This was a huge NOPE in my book. It has all the makings of an unhealthy relationship. It's forced, rushed, based almost ENTIRELY on feelings, and full of mistrust/lack of communication. NO THANK YOU. (Plus, the physical attraction...WHAT EVEN? *gags*)
In all, I enjoyed the plot and setting immensely...but the awkwardness of it all just prevented me from loving it. It's a shame because this book had a lot of potential. I'm not sure if I'll take the time to read the second book in the series.
3 stars
Lovely Things:
- The plot. This was literally SO INTRIGUING. I could not put this book down, for that reason alone. Usually plots don't engage me THAT much - it's the characters who grab my attention - but this book had a solidly original plot.
- The setting. STEAMPUNKKKKK. I'm kind of a sucker for anything in that genre. :P The setting reminded me of Victorian London with airships and mechanical birds and creepy laboratories and bounty hunters. IT. WAS. EPIC. I'm completely sold on the setting, people.
- That cover, though. I'm sorry...shallow bookdragon here. (But seriously, this cover is lovely. <3)
- Kat was pretty decent. I actually am Very Confused about my thoughts on these characters, but Kat wasn't too bad. I mostly liked her?? More about the characters below.
Not-So-Lovely Things:
- IT'S SO AWKWARD. This whole book just felt really really awkward. I DON'T KNOW HOW TO EXPLAIN IT. The characters and emotions just felt really forced. It was like the author was visibly TRYING to make complex characters...and kind of failing at it. Dialogue felt unnatural. Characters felt unnatural. EVERYTHING JUST FELT UNNATURAL. *cringes*
- The characters. Was...was I actually supposed to like Stephen? Because EXCUSE ME, he was a bit of a jerk. He projected all his past experiences on Kat and was a jerk towards her for a lot of the book. AND THEN I'M SUPPOSED TO APPROVE OF THE ROMANCE BETWEEN THEM?? Um, no sir. That's not how healthy relationships work. Sure, I get that he had a bad experience in the past - but that doesn't give him any right to take that out on Kat. It's not her fault that you can't move on, Mr. Grey. :P And Kat? I guess I liked her for the most part...but like I said, everything in this book just felt really awkward, and that includes her.
- The romance. Excuse me while I go and pass out. This was a huge NOPE in my book. It has all the makings of an unhealthy relationship. It's forced, rushed, based almost ENTIRELY on feelings, and full of mistrust/lack of communication. NO THANK YOU. (Plus, the physical attraction...WHAT EVEN? *gags*)
In all, I enjoyed the plot and setting immensely...but the awkwardness of it all just prevented me from loving it. It's a shame because this book had a lot of potential. I'm not sure if I'll take the time to read the second book in the series.
3 stars
February 13, 2018
I've marked this book as fantasy, but it's more parallel world than that.
And before I launch into my full review, what is it with parallel worlds and airships? Every single parallel world novel I've read has them, as does just about every TV show episode I've ever seen set in a parallel world. It's nuts!
But now to this story.
Tainted was well-written and enjoyable. It kept going at a good pace, which is what usually holds my interest. I found its characters and their dilemmas interesting and gripping.
I especially love Kat and Stephen, which is a good thing, because they're the protagonists. :-) Both are enjoyable, intriguing and far from perfect. And I believed in them and what they were trying to achieve, and understood when they slipped up, as much as I wanted to shake them to wake them up so they did the right thing. :-)
Definitely a worthwhile read.
And before I launch into my full review, what is it with parallel worlds and airships? Every single parallel world novel I've read has them, as does just about every TV show episode I've ever seen set in a parallel world. It's nuts!
But now to this story.
Tainted was well-written and enjoyable. It kept going at a good pace, which is what usually holds my interest. I found its characters and their dilemmas interesting and gripping.
I especially love Kat and Stephen, which is a good thing, because they're the protagonists. :-) Both are enjoyable, intriguing and far from perfect. And I believed in them and what they were trying to achieve, and understood when they slipped up, as much as I wanted to shake them to wake them up so they did the right thing. :-)
Definitely a worthwhile read.
February 9, 2022
A steampunk Frankenstein teen story. The reason for the title Tainted is not given in the story.
December 10, 2016
General comments/updates I didn't get a chance to post:
There's definitely a lot of physical attraction between the two MCs. It never gets too detailed (some kissing later on and just enough detail to get a sense of the pleasure involved), but it was still enough for me to go, "Um...how far is this going to go?!?"
But I trust this author, and she delivered on that trust. :D
All in all: two wonderfully broken characters on the rough road to healing, a steampunk world, a definite "Frankenstein" vibe, and the scariest "superpower" ever.
These songs kept running through my head as Kat's character struggle developed:
Monster by Skillet
Nothing and Everything by RED
I Need You to Love Me by Barlowgirl
Real by Superchick
I think it would be totally cool if Kat and Jace from Ilyon Chronicles had a little chat... XD
Also, Cricket needs to get more involved, because mechanical birds are awesome.
There's definitely a lot of physical attraction between the two MCs. It never gets too detailed (some kissing later on and just enough detail to get a sense of the pleasure involved), but it was still enough for me to go, "Um...how far is this going to go?!?"
But I trust this author, and she delivered on that trust. :D
All in all: two wonderfully broken characters on the rough road to healing, a steampunk world, a definite "Frankenstein" vibe, and the scariest "superpower" ever.
These songs kept running through my head as Kat's character struggle developed:
Monster by Skillet
Nothing and Everything by RED
I Need You to Love Me by Barlowgirl
Real by Superchick
I think it would be totally cool if Kat and Jace from Ilyon Chronicles had a little chat... XD
Also, Cricket needs to get more involved, because mechanical birds are awesome.
December 15, 2021
this is pure
heartbreaking
and intriguing.
Morgan L. Busse is a master in my eyes.
Highly recommended. Now excuse me while I go devour the sequel.
heartbreaking
and intriguing.
Morgan L. Busse is a master in my eyes.
Highly recommended. Now excuse me while I go devour the sequel.
April 19, 2020
Will review after book 2...☺
December 5, 2018
I think one of the hardest genres of Christian fiction to write is fantasy; sometimes you wouldn't know it's christian save for the story's clean, more conservative morals, whereas other times Christianity is squeezed into a fantastical setting (with varying degrees of success), while still other times the allegory is thick enough to cut with a knife (cough cough, CS Lewis). I wasn't sure what to expect from this steam-punk world, but I think the author did a good job finding a way to insert faith into her story. Science rules the day (not so unlike today), but Kat's condition makes her question science's stand that there is no spiritual side to life; when she uses her [admittedly dark] powers, she can feel the damage to her soul.
I enjoy the world-building; it's definitely steampunk, with an emphasis on clockwork and steam, mad scientists, and modified Victorian styles, but there is also a bit of a western feel (with his duster and twin pistols, Stephen strikes me as the perfect old west bounty hunter). We've got a touch of conspiracy and corruption, war in the background, hints at privateers in the sky--plenty for the author to expand on in future books!
Stephen does something that I never expected him to do (can't go into it further without spoilers). But after setting aside my emotional upheaval, my detached, story-evaluating side pointed out that it was a great plot twist that will have consequences in the book(s) to come. It reminded me of my favorite aspect of the fairy tale East of the Sun, West of the Moon.
This is definitely book 1 of a series; I'm glad I have book 2 handy to start right away. Not that it ends on a cliff-hanger (don't worry, they make it into the airship!), but it is only the beginning of the story. I'm always one for enjoying long books, so I would have enjoyed it if the beginning (Kat's two years in school) had been expanded more, but on the other hand, all the action is post-school . . . so maybe the author chose rightly.
In any case, I am definitely going to check out other books by the author!
I enjoy the world-building; it's definitely steampunk, with an emphasis on clockwork and steam, mad scientists, and modified Victorian styles, but there is also a bit of a western feel (with his duster and twin pistols, Stephen strikes me as the perfect old west bounty hunter). We've got a touch of conspiracy and corruption, war in the background, hints at privateers in the sky--plenty for the author to expand on in future books!
Stephen does something that I never expected him to do (can't go into it further without spoilers). But after setting aside my emotional upheaval, my detached, story-evaluating side pointed out that it was a great plot twist that will have consequences in the book(s) to come. It reminded me of my favorite aspect of the fairy tale East of the Sun, West of the Moon.
This is definitely book 1 of a series; I'm glad I have book 2 handy to start right away. Not that it ends on a cliff-hanger (don't worry, they make it into the airship!), but it is only the beginning of the story. I'm always one for enjoying long books, so I would have enjoyed it if the beginning (Kat's two years in school) had been expanded more, but on the other hand, all the action is post-school . . . so maybe the author chose rightly.
In any case, I am definitely going to check out other books by the author!
November 22, 2020
I'm not usually a steampunk reader, but since I loved the Mark of the Raven series I figured that I would give this a try. I was not disappointed, fast paced adventure, excellent world building, and engaging characters. I will definitely be reading the next book!
Read
December 11, 2022****DNF/Skimmed to the End****
There’s nothing wrong with the book nor is it badly written, it just ended up not being for me. I got to a point where when I read it I was fine but when I put it down I didn’t want to pick it back up which led me to quit.
Also, without giving spoilers, there is a betrayal in this book that while I understood WHY the character betrayed the other it didn’t sit well with me. Betrayal in stories for me is a very fine line in what works and I can forgive and what doesn’t, and while I could forgive the character it also crossed the line of this no longer works for me and is ultimately why I DNFed it.
‼️Content (up to Chapter 12)‼️
Violence: refuse is thrown on a woman’s face; a guy punches another; a character shoots a guy in the leg; injuries and blood (not detailed); a character sets fire to a building and burns some people
Sexual: a character’s fiancé has an affair (nothing is shown or detailed aside from catching the two in bed but you obviously know what’s going on); mild suggestive hints and comments; a girl is forced against a wall by a guy (we don’t see what happens but it’s obvious he forces a kiss on her, possibly is trying to do worse before he’s stopped)
Drug/Alcohol: characters go in pubs and drink; smoking
Other: a character is a bounty hunter; a character can create fire from their hands and move objects with their mind; harassment of women in a scientific field; death and grief
There’s nothing wrong with the book nor is it badly written, it just ended up not being for me. I got to a point where when I read it I was fine but when I put it down I didn’t want to pick it back up which led me to quit.
Also, without giving spoilers, there is a betrayal in this book that while I understood WHY the character betrayed the other it didn’t sit well with me. Betrayal in stories for me is a very fine line in what works and I can forgive and what doesn’t, and while I could forgive the character it also crossed the line of this no longer works for me and is ultimately why I DNFed it.
‼️Content (up to Chapter 12)‼️
Violence: refuse is thrown on a woman’s face; a guy punches another; a character shoots a guy in the leg; injuries and blood (not detailed); a character sets fire to a building and burns some people
Sexual: a character’s fiancé has an affair (nothing is shown or detailed aside from catching the two in bed but you obviously know what’s going on); mild suggestive hints and comments; a girl is forced against a wall by a guy (we don’t see what happens but it’s obvious he forces a kiss on her, possibly is trying to do worse before he’s stopped)
Drug/Alcohol: characters go in pubs and drink; smoking
Other: a character is a bounty hunter; a character can create fire from their hands and move objects with their mind; harassment of women in a scientific field; death and grief
July 21, 2022
Looking forward to finishing the story with book 2! I believe this is the first steam punk novel that I've read and that's what drew me to the story - I was looking for something different. I'm intrigued by Kat and look forward to learning if she's able to control what's inside of her. It was a bit slower to start but picked up with the last half for sure.
December 7, 2022
I picked this up knowing nothing other than it was a Frankenstein retelling of sorts. It really isn’t. But the plot was intriguing and while I didn’t love it, I am willing to check out the sequel.
October 5, 2024
4.5 stars, rounded up, simply because there was a little bit of medical description that I'm a bit sensitive to. But it did make sense within the context of the story!
July 18, 2023
A great christian steampunk read. Read very much like a YA. A great fit for the age group
September 3, 2021
4 Stars!!
What a delightful different book we have here!! Sad to say I haven't read much Steampunk, but I might need to because this one captured me right from the start!
Kat our main character is not only one of the first females to attend a special science school at the Tower, but she also has a secret- she can move things with her mind and emotions. She has no idea why she has this ability but all she cares about is getting rid of it. Every time Kat uses it, she loses a part of her soul. She desperately wants to find a cure before there is nothing left of her soul to save.
After a terrible accident, Kat is forced to find help through someone she least expects. Stephen Grey, the most popular bounty hunter in all of World City. Together they go on a journey to find a special doctor to help rid Kat of her ability before its too late and she loses her soul for good.
I really enjoyed the world and world building in this book. I loved the feel of it and just the freshness, the gears, the machines, the Victorian type feel of it all - probably because I dont read much of this genre but it was a great adventure. I enjoyed the chemistry between the two MC's and the thrill of the journey. I also appreciate the cleanliness of it and how the romance was not angsty, over the top or the entire focus of the story. The ending about killed me and I immediately had to pick up book 2!
What a delightful different book we have here!! Sad to say I haven't read much Steampunk, but I might need to because this one captured me right from the start!
Kat our main character is not only one of the first females to attend a special science school at the Tower, but she also has a secret- she can move things with her mind and emotions. She has no idea why she has this ability but all she cares about is getting rid of it. Every time Kat uses it, she loses a part of her soul. She desperately wants to find a cure before there is nothing left of her soul to save.
After a terrible accident, Kat is forced to find help through someone she least expects. Stephen Grey, the most popular bounty hunter in all of World City. Together they go on a journey to find a special doctor to help rid Kat of her ability before its too late and she loses her soul for good.
I really enjoyed the world and world building in this book. I loved the feel of it and just the freshness, the gears, the machines, the Victorian type feel of it all - probably because I dont read much of this genre but it was a great adventure. I enjoyed the chemistry between the two MC's and the thrill of the journey. I also appreciate the cleanliness of it and how the romance was not angsty, over the top or the entire focus of the story. The ending about killed me and I immediately had to pick up book 2!
March 31, 2016
Tainted is the first book in a new steampunk series by Morgan L. Busse.
This first book is a great opener to the world of the Soul Chronicles. Kat Bloodmayne is a gifted scientist with a dark secret. Her fears and challenges find full display, drawing the reader in and making her a worthy heroine to root for. As a reader, I wanted to see her use her abilities, but I was conflicted because I knew the risk it meant for her.
The other main character, Stephen Grey, is an intriguing policeman turned bounty hunter. His cautious approach to Kat is set up well, along with the underlying mystery that haunts him in the back of his mind. Their interactions are believable and dynamic. I was surprised by some of the twists presented in the book.
The plot moved quickly and drew me in. I can't wait to see what happens in the second book.
I had two areas that could have used more development: the reasons that drive Kat's father, and the steampunk aspect of the book wasn't built up as much as perhaps it could have. The book is very enjoyable, but I personally would have appreciated more from the world-building side.
Overall, fans of fantastic stories, those with supernatural or steampunk elements, should find much to like in this book. I can't wait to read book two.
This first book is a great opener to the world of the Soul Chronicles. Kat Bloodmayne is a gifted scientist with a dark secret. Her fears and challenges find full display, drawing the reader in and making her a worthy heroine to root for. As a reader, I wanted to see her use her abilities, but I was conflicted because I knew the risk it meant for her.
The other main character, Stephen Grey, is an intriguing policeman turned bounty hunter. His cautious approach to Kat is set up well, along with the underlying mystery that haunts him in the back of his mind. Their interactions are believable and dynamic. I was surprised by some of the twists presented in the book.
The plot moved quickly and drew me in. I can't wait to see what happens in the second book.
I had two areas that could have used more development: the reasons that drive Kat's father, and the steampunk aspect of the book wasn't built up as much as perhaps it could have. The book is very enjoyable, but I personally would have appreciated more from the world-building side.
Overall, fans of fantastic stories, those with supernatural or steampunk elements, should find much to like in this book. I can't wait to read book two.
February 17, 2024
Oh. My. Goodness. Gracious. I loved these 2 part book series. But I’ll talk about this one first. First off a steampunk book? I’ve never read one before and loved this one!
Could not put it down! I loved the faith based references throughout the whole book ❤️!
Let’s just say, I HATE HER FATHER WITH A PASSION! And what he did to her! 😭😭😢😢 Horrible. Absolutely horrible.
Stephen and Kat’s relationship is so cute, it’s like friends, then enemies then lovers ❤️
It was so adventurous, loved that, could NOT but the book down!
The characters! Oh I want to cry! Beautiful. Beautifully written. Beautiful stories. Beautiful relationships! Although there are the bad guys in the book too (we don’t like them).
The plot!!!!! OH MY GOODNESS!!! I was blown away! Shook. Stunned. Flabbergasted. Astonished. Dumbfounded. Rendered speechless! If I say anything I’ll spoil it all 😅
If you like;
Very adventurous.
Friends, enemies, to lovers.
Dying people who need to be saved before something very bad happens.
Faith based references.
Then you will love these books!
Go get a copy and read for yourself!
Could not put it down! I loved the faith based references throughout the whole book ❤️!
Let’s just say, I HATE HER FATHER WITH A PASSION! And what he did to her! 😭😭😢😢 Horrible. Absolutely horrible.
Stephen and Kat’s relationship is so cute, it’s like friends, then enemies then lovers ❤️
It was so adventurous, loved that, could NOT but the book down!
The characters! Oh I want to cry! Beautiful. Beautifully written. Beautiful stories. Beautiful relationships! Although there are the bad guys in the book too (we don’t like them).
The plot!!!!! OH MY GOODNESS!!! I was blown away! Shook. Stunned. Flabbergasted. Astonished. Dumbfounded. Rendered speechless! If I say anything I’ll spoil it all 😅
If you like;
Very adventurous.
Friends, enemies, to lovers.
Dying people who need to be saved before something very bad happens.
Faith based references.
Then you will love these books!
Go get a copy and read for yourself!
June 8, 2017
3.5 stars.
Definitely enjoyed it, but I guess I was expecting something a little more?
I liked Kat for sure. I thought she was a very interesting person and well developed and her power thing is very intriguing! Was hoping for more with her friend, but maybe that will come in book 2. Stephen on the other hand - I thought he was a little generic maybe? I don't know, he kind of fell flat for me.
But the world was awesome. I love steampunk and this was well done. (More airships please! :P) There was a bit of murder-mystery thrown in, with creepy scientists and even some Frankenstein-ish themes. So, the plot was great! Definitely kept me turning pages and I'll be checking book 2 out when it releases!
Definitely enjoyed it, but I guess I was expecting something a little more?
I liked Kat for sure. I thought she was a very interesting person and well developed and her power thing is very intriguing! Was hoping for more with her friend, but maybe that will come in book 2. Stephen on the other hand - I thought he was a little generic maybe? I don't know, he kind of fell flat for me.
But the world was awesome. I love steampunk and this was well done. (More airships please! :P) There was a bit of murder-mystery thrown in, with creepy scientists and even some Frankenstein-ish themes. So, the plot was great! Definitely kept me turning pages and I'll be checking book 2 out when it releases!
March 11, 2016
I think this is a great book! I had never read a steampunk novel before, so was not exactly sure what to expect, but I really liked it! In fact, I read it much more quickly than I thought I would because it was hard to put it down. :) I like both of the main characters-Kat and Stephen. I like the story too, and, of course, now I am wanting to know what happens next!
I love the "era" of the story, the machines, etc. I also love that it doesn't have a bunch of sleaziness, like others of this genre that I tried to read ( which is why I have not read one before this).
I was given an advance copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. Thanks, Morgan, for a wonderful story!
I love the "era" of the story, the machines, etc. I also love that it doesn't have a bunch of sleaziness, like others of this genre that I tried to read ( which is why I have not read one before this).
I was given an advance copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. Thanks, Morgan, for a wonderful story!
September 11, 2016
Dear Tainted,
Um, I read you in one day. You are kind of AMAZING!
BUT HOW AM I SUPPOSE TO COPE NOW?!
I NEED THE NEXT BOOK!
RIGHT NOW! BECAUSE...THAT ENDING!!! GAH!
I've been tainted!
Sincerely, Emmy
Um, I read you in one day. You are kind of AMAZING!
BUT HOW AM I SUPPOSE TO COPE NOW?!
I NEED THE NEXT BOOK!
RIGHT NOW! BECAUSE...THAT ENDING!!! GAH!
I've been tainted!
Sincerely, Emmy
August 29, 2016
Loved this book! Review up tomorrow!
September 25, 2017
This is my first full-fledged Steampunk novel that I've read and I throughly enjoyed it. It kinda had a Victorianesque feel about it with lots of dark places and Dickensian-style buildings and such.
I really like Kat, the story's main character. She has these strange powers that she doesn't really understand and attends a wacky science school where she doesn't really fit in. Kat meets Stephen and he eventually comes alongside her to try to help her better understand her powers.
Her dad is a great bad guy. He is conducting these crazy experiments that reminded me a lot of Frankenstein and is definitely up to no good.
Busse does an excellent job taking us into the steampunk world and the final hundred or so pages really kick along. There's a bit of everything including romance and I felt satisfied with how it all ended even though it's clearly set up for the next instalment which I will look forward to reading in due course.
If you haven't sampled Steampunk may I suggest this is a good one to start with.
I really like Kat, the story's main character. She has these strange powers that she doesn't really understand and attends a wacky science school where she doesn't really fit in. Kat meets Stephen and he eventually comes alongside her to try to help her better understand her powers.
Her dad is a great bad guy. He is conducting these crazy experiments that reminded me a lot of Frankenstein and is definitely up to no good.
Busse does an excellent job taking us into the steampunk world and the final hundred or so pages really kick along. There's a bit of everything including romance and I felt satisfied with how it all ended even though it's clearly set up for the next instalment which I will look forward to reading in due course.
If you haven't sampled Steampunk may I suggest this is a good one to start with.
June 5, 2022
This felt like a really abridged book. There's almost no description and it relies mainly on dialogue that feels anachronistic for steampunk (even though this is set in a fictional city and world). I could've cared less what happened to any character because I barely knew even the main character. You could tell the only plot twist coming from a mile away.
This is all just the book, unfortunately I listened to the audiobook where the narrator overacted. During parts where she should've sounded serious, she sounded optimistic which destroyed any kind of tension written. I was reminded of grade school talent shows and plays which isn't a good thing. I can't tell if it was the story or the narrator's fault but I got so much naïveté I kept getting confused on how old the characters really were.
This is all just the book, unfortunately I listened to the audiobook where the narrator overacted. During parts where she should've sounded serious, she sounded optimistic which destroyed any kind of tension written. I was reminded of grade school talent shows and plays which isn't a good thing. I can't tell if it was the story or the narrator's fault but I got so much naïveté I kept getting confused on how old the characters really were.
January 24, 2020
Ok y’all, this was awesome. It basically combined Mortal Engines, Star Wars Mandalorian, the flying ships from the three musketeers, and Sherlock Holmes, with a dash of Western with monsters. So cool guys. However, the content was a bit more mature than Mark of the Raven so, that said, as good as this is, I would read mark of the raven first. But, it also had a lot more Christian elements in it, talking directly about God.
Read
April 11, 2017This is a steampunk adventure with a heroine possessing mysterious powers and a hero who doesn't trust women. It starts rather slow, and it took me some time to become attached to the characters, but it was well worth sticking with the story for a great payoff. :-) Not a light read--it has some dark themes and scary moments, and the villian is uber-creepy and evil.
Overall, I enjoyed this book very much and now look forward to the second in the series!
Overall, I enjoyed this book very much and now look forward to the second in the series!
September 13, 2020
Morgan L. Busse nailed it with this one, y'all. IT WAS SO GOOD.
I listened on audio and thought the narrator did a fantastic job. Then again, I'm not very experienced in the realm of audiobooks, so I can't really say that I know a good narrator from a bad one :D
Was Tainted as good as Morgan's previous series, The Ravenwood Saga? In my opinion, no. What is still really good? YES.
I'm starting Awakened (book two) ASAP.
I listened on audio and thought the narrator did a fantastic job. Then again, I'm not very experienced in the realm of audiobooks, so I can't really say that I know a good narrator from a bad one :D
Was Tainted as good as Morgan's previous series, The Ravenwood Saga? In my opinion, no. What is still really good? YES.
I'm starting Awakened (book two) ASAP.
December 30, 2020
If you are interested in reading this, I recommend starting with chapter eight. You won't miss anything. The events of the first seven chapters are mentioned again later in enough detail to be understood. Once I started into chapter eight, I was a little surprised Busse hadn't chosen to start there in the first place.
Exciting story. I found the Christian aspects and Victorian propriety refreshing after reading secular fantasy for a while. However, I was disappointed with some of the romantic content.
Exciting story. I found the Christian aspects and Victorian propriety refreshing after reading secular fantasy for a while. However, I was disappointed with some of the romantic content.
November 16, 2017
This book has been on my tbr since before it was published and I'm happy to have finally had the time to read it. Fantasy doesn't tend to be my go-to genre, but I was drawn to this book because of its steampunk element. Busse's storyline and world building held my attention while provided a much needed break from the ordinary.
3 Stars = Good
3 Stars = Good
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