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Ministry of Peculiar Occurrences #5
The Ghost Rebellion
From authors Pip Ballantine and Tee Morris, the award winning steampunk series continues.The chase is on!After rescuing Queen Victoria from the clutches of the Maestro, Agents Eliza D Braun and Wellington Books are in hot pursuit of Dr Henry Jekyll. While he continues his experiments on the aristocracy of Europe, he leaves a trail of chaos and despair in his wake. However when Eliza and Wellington run him to ground in India, they are forced to come face to face with ghosts from the past and the realities of the British Empire.Meanwhile Ministry agents Brandon Hill and Bruce Campbell travel deep into Russia hunting down a rare ingredient to save Queen Victoria's life. Within the darkness and bitter cold, they uncover a threat from a revitalized House of Usher that comes directly from their new Chairman. A threat that promises to plunge the world into chaos!
279 pages, Paperback
First published June 15, 2016
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April 12, 2020
Actual rating: 3.75546689965126 stars. And stuff.
Wherein our favourite agents of deering-do (aka the Colonial Pepperpot and Dashing Archivist) find themselves dispatched to exotic, friendly (if a little on the brink of war) India. And facing wickedly nefarious Cobras and Badgers and Foxes and Bears and Lions and Dingoes and Tigers and Wolves and Scorpions, oh my. And also good bowel-movements, enemas and squeaky-clean intestines (don't ask). And also also revoltingly inferior supernatural technology (a most scandalous rip-off, if you ask me). And also also also a deliciously evil madman (aka the Atypical Mad Scientist) whose favorite hobby is turning innocent bystanders into ten feet monsters (yay!).
Quite the daunting predicament, you say? Bloody shrimping balderdash, I retort! Unflappable as a pair of lethargic barnacles, our Colonial Pepperpot and Dashing Archivist always are. Provided there is no shortage of The Brew That Cures All Ailments, Be They Physical Or Psychological (TBTCAABTPOP™). Obviously.
· Book 1: Phoenix Rising ★★★★
· Book 2: The Janus Affair ★★★★
· Book 3: Dawn's Early Light ★★★★
· Book 4: The Diamond Conspiracy ★★★
· Book 6: Operation: Endgame ★★★★
Wherein our favourite agents of deering-do (aka the Colonial Pepperpot and Dashing Archivist) find themselves dispatched to exotic, friendly (if a little on the brink of war) India. And facing wickedly nefarious Cobras and Badgers and Foxes and Bears and Lions and Dingoes and Tigers and Wolves and Scorpions, oh my. And also good bowel-movements, enemas and squeaky-clean intestines (don't ask). And also also revoltingly inferior supernatural technology (a most scandalous rip-off, if you ask me). And also also also a deliciously evil madman (aka the Atypical Mad Scientist) whose favorite hobby is turning innocent bystanders into ten feet monsters (yay!).
Quite the daunting predicament, you say? Bloody shrimping balderdash, I retort! Unflappable as a pair of lethargic barnacles, our Colonial Pepperpot and Dashing Archivist always are. Provided there is no shortage of The Brew That Cures All Ailments, Be They Physical Or Psychological (TBTCAABTPOP™). Obviously.
“Just another day at the Ministry.” “Shall I go put the kettle on?”
· Book 1: Phoenix Rising ★★★★
· Book 2: The Janus Affair ★★★★
· Book 3: Dawn's Early Light ★★★★
· Book 4: The Diamond Conspiracy ★★★
· Book 6: Operation: Endgame ★★★★
June 9, 2016
This originally appeared at The Irresponsible Reader.
---
The somewhat unlikely pairing of Agent Bruce Campbell (and seriously, what a great character/tribute) and Brandon Hill is turning out to be a great combination (even if Hill spent too much time with Kellogg and his kooky health theories last time he was in the States). The two go off to Russia in search of an artifact needed by the Ministry, and find themselves in the middle of something big. Potentially very big. Thankfully, there's plenty of vodka on hand to help.
Things aren't going swimmingly for the House of Usher and Jeckyll at the moment, either -- there's some internal shakeups/restructuring with the House which should prove to be important for the Ministry. And Jeckyll's, well, he's not taking the loss of his royal patient (and everything else that happened in the last book) too well.
Sophia del Morte, of course, makes her presence known as only she can. When she's not trying to kill Books and Braun, she's really one of their most reliable allies. This time she has a vital piece of intelligence or two, that'll not only impact this book, but (I wager) the next. Also, she brings all the right sorts of weapons to every occasion . . .
Meanwhile, while the Ministry rebuilds, Agents Books and Braun are off trying to take care of Jekyll's remaining and scattered associates. This brings them to India, where they encounter an old friend, an old acquaintance and some ghosts -- literal and figurative. Before they know it, they find themselves in the middle of struggles between the British army and assorted groups of Indian rebels wanting to be rid of said Army (and the rest of the government). The links between Jeckyll and this conflict are surprising, and may put a strain on our protagonists' relationships with various entities.
One thing that isn't strained, is the relationship between Books and Braun -- their young love is still going strong, and is a pleasure to read. Well, okay, there's one little strain -- Wellington Books himself. We've seen hints -- signs -- of what Usher and his father had done to Wellington, but now we see more than just signs -- we see almost the full-fledged results of what they did. These results are both frightening and astonishing (which is pretty much what Eliza and Wellington felt).
I bet I've somehow neglected to talk about the chapter titles in any of the previous novels -- shame on me. And if I have mentioned them, they need to be mentioned again. They're easily something overlooked as one reads -- because, really, who cares? -- these are not to be missed. Witty, understated and full of Steampunk sensibilities. I don't know if I've ever wondered about this before with any book, but I do wonder how much time they spend crafting these. My guess is that it's harder than it looks.
I enjoyed the new characters (Bruce's new pal in particular), and getting to see a couple of old ones in new ways. And it's always fun to see Eliza, Wellington, Bruce, Brandon and Sophia. I just had such a good time with this. In many ways, this book was just setting the table for the next, and final, installment in the series. But the character development, revelations, and overall entertainment value of the book kept this from just being a way to move pieces around. There was real excitement, good character moments (even from an Usher member or two), and a whole lotta fun, with an ending that leaves you really wanting the next installment.. I really can't wait to see what the authors have in store for us next -- it'll be great.
Disclaimer: I received an eARC copy from the authors in exchange for an honest review. Also, I backed the Kickstarter for this book. Also, I liked every other book in this series, so I wasn't exactly an objective reader going in. Not that I ever am.
---
“Well then,” Wellington began, “the House of Usher is apparently supplying rebels with inferior, supernatural technology, India is on the brink of war with Mother England, all while a madman possessing the ability to turn ordinary people into ten feet monsters is on the loose.”Just in case you thought things were going to settle down for the Ministry following the events around the Diamond Jubilee, well, forget it. The Agency is recruiting and training new members, reassigning others, and sending their experienced agents all over to help get things back under control
Eliza bobbed her head, her lips bent in a smirk. “Just another day at the Ministry.”
“Shall I go put the kettle on?”
“Please.”
The somewhat unlikely pairing of Agent Bruce Campbell (and seriously, what a great character/tribute) and Brandon Hill is turning out to be a great combination (even if Hill spent too much time with Kellogg and his kooky health theories last time he was in the States). The two go off to Russia in search of an artifact needed by the Ministry, and find themselves in the middle of something big. Potentially very big. Thankfully, there's plenty of vodka on hand to help.
Things aren't going swimmingly for the House of Usher and Jeckyll at the moment, either -- there's some internal shakeups/restructuring with the House which should prove to be important for the Ministry. And Jeckyll's, well, he's not taking the loss of his royal patient (and everything else that happened in the last book) too well.
Sophia del Morte, of course, makes her presence known as only she can. When she's not trying to kill Books and Braun, she's really one of their most reliable allies. This time she has a vital piece of intelligence or two, that'll not only impact this book, but (I wager) the next. Also, she brings all the right sorts of weapons to every occasion . . .
Meanwhile, while the Ministry rebuilds, Agents Books and Braun are off trying to take care of Jekyll's remaining and scattered associates. This brings them to India, where they encounter an old friend, an old acquaintance and some ghosts -- literal and figurative. Before they know it, they find themselves in the middle of struggles between the British army and assorted groups of Indian rebels wanting to be rid of said Army (and the rest of the government). The links between Jeckyll and this conflict are surprising, and may put a strain on our protagonists' relationships with various entities.
One thing that isn't strained, is the relationship between Books and Braun -- their young love is still going strong, and is a pleasure to read. Well, okay, there's one little strain -- Wellington Books himself. We've seen hints -- signs -- of what Usher and his father had done to Wellington, but now we see more than just signs -- we see almost the full-fledged results of what they did. These results are both frightening and astonishing (which is pretty much what Eliza and Wellington felt).
I bet I've somehow neglected to talk about the chapter titles in any of the previous novels -- shame on me. And if I have mentioned them, they need to be mentioned again. They're easily something overlooked as one reads -- because, really, who cares? -- these are not to be missed. Witty, understated and full of Steampunk sensibilities. I don't know if I've ever wondered about this before with any book, but I do wonder how much time they spend crafting these. My guess is that it's harder than it looks.
I enjoyed the new characters (Bruce's new pal in particular), and getting to see a couple of old ones in new ways. And it's always fun to see Eliza, Wellington, Bruce, Brandon and Sophia. I just had such a good time with this. In many ways, this book was just setting the table for the next, and final, installment in the series. But the character development, revelations, and overall entertainment value of the book kept this from just being a way to move pieces around. There was real excitement, good character moments (even from an Usher member or two), and a whole lotta fun, with an ending that leaves you really wanting the next installment.. I really can't wait to see what the authors have in store for us next -- it'll be great.
Disclaimer: I received an eARC copy from the authors in exchange for an honest review. Also, I backed the Kickstarter for this book. Also, I liked every other book in this series, so I wasn't exactly an objective reader going in. Not that I ever am.
June 5, 2016
*Source* Authors
*Genre* Science Fiction, Steampunk
*Rating* 4.0
*MY Thoughts*
The Ghost Rebellion is the FIFTH installment in Pip Ballantine & Tee Morris's Ministry of Peculiar Occurrences series. This is a series that features Eliza D. Braun and Wellington Thornhill Books Esq. as agents of the Ministry of Peculiar Occurrences. They are supposed to save Queen and country from dastardly villains like the House of Usher who will do anything to bring the Empire to its knees. High at the top of Books and Braun's current enemies list is Dr. Henry Jekyll who continues to slip through the couples clutches.
*Full Review Posting @ Gizmos Reviews 06/08/2016* link to follow
Expected publication: June 10th 2016 (first published May 2016)
*Genre* Science Fiction, Steampunk
*Rating* 4.0
*MY Thoughts*
The Ghost Rebellion is the FIFTH installment in Pip Ballantine & Tee Morris's Ministry of Peculiar Occurrences series. This is a series that features Eliza D. Braun and Wellington Thornhill Books Esq. as agents of the Ministry of Peculiar Occurrences. They are supposed to save Queen and country from dastardly villains like the House of Usher who will do anything to bring the Empire to its knees. High at the top of Books and Braun's current enemies list is Dr. Henry Jekyll who continues to slip through the couples clutches.
*Full Review Posting @ Gizmos Reviews 06/08/2016* link to follow
Expected publication: June 10th 2016 (first published May 2016)
August 20, 2021
Nice to see this series get back on track. I had enjoyed the first couple of books in the series but then it seemed to go off the rails a little bit as the authors seemed intent in cramming way too much plot and action in as opposed to good ol' fashioned storytelling. But this entry is much more balanced, still with plenty of action and "steampunkiness" but mixed well with character growth and an advancement of the overall plot concerning Dr. Jekyll. The final book promises to be quite the pot boiler.
April 22, 2017
My library did not have a copy of this, because it has been independently published, so I had to go and buy it like the fan I am. The Ghost Rebellion picks up shortly after The Diamond Conspiracy. Books and Braun are back, along with longtime supporting characters like Bruce Campbell, and some new faces in the principal setting of India. The Ministry managed to foil a plot against the British Empire while technically being disavowed, but their work is far from over. Pip Ballantine and Tee Morris once again deliver a book that is simultaneously action-packed, funny, and intensely interesting.
Books and Braun are on the trail of Dr. Henry Jekyll. In this universe, Jekyll's medical talents have allowed him to develop a serum that is basically steroids+--but with all the terrible side-effects one might remember from Jekyll and Hyde. B&B are hoping to trap Jekyll by following an associate, Dr. Featherstone. Their journey takes them to India, where they get caught up in fighting against the Ghost Rebellion, who have been furnished with technology by Jekyll.
Meanwhile, Agents Campbell and Hill are dispatched to Russia to find a cure for Queen Victoria's terminal ailment. They have to infiltrate a Russian factory held by the House of Usher. Fortunately, they have the assistance of Ryfka, a crack sniper and deaf woman who is ready to put her life on the line to stop Usher's operation in its tracks. They quickly find that they have bitten off more than they can chew. Like most missions with the Ministry of Peculiar Occurrences, the parameters expand exponentially....
I love the dual A/B plot structure in The Ghost Rebellion. Although Ballantine and Morris have often given us different perspectives in previous books, particularly glimpses at the villains' plotting, Campbell and Hill's story gets a lot of page-time--and that's great. Not that I don't love B&B, of course, but Ballantine and Morris effectively balance these stories so you're kept wanting more of one just as they switch to another.
Neither plot lacks for action. There are gunfights. There are fistfights. There are gun-and-fist-and-holy-hell-is-that-power-armor?-and-hey-who-brought-the-tank-and-fuck-we're-fucked-we're-all-screwed fights. Although I suspect the vast majority of people picking up this book are series fans, a newcomer might enjoy this book for the action alone. Everyone gets a chance to shine in their own way (although if I name names, I'm going into spoiler territory, if you know what I mean).
Books and Braun's relationship continues to advance in interesting ways. This might be one of the book's weaker areas--there isn't as much character development here. There are plenty of callbacks to what we have already learned about Books' past. This includes a fairly intense and kind of disturbing sequence in which Books basically gets a bunch of inexperienced agents killed and then goes off as a result, to bloody ends. Braun, likewise, doesn't see much development. No real new backstory tidbits.
Together, though? I love how they have conversations like adults. They don't tiptoe around issues. They know their lives are weird and perilous--and they always resolve to deal with it together. I think the reason I like Books and Braun so much is that theirs is a relationship that is so healthy. They are totally a relationship of equals, complementing each other in skills and interests but always, always consulting and compromising instead of deferring or manipulating. Books and Braun do not play games. And that is what makes them such a formidable, amazing couple.
The other area in which The Ghost Rebellion is lacking is the eponymous antagonists. I appreciate Ballantine and Morris' effort to once again take us to an exotic location in their steampunk Victorian world. I'm not so chuffed with how it feels like Books and Braun are on the wrong side of the conflicts, here, defending Britain's imperialist interests from people seeking (albeit violently) liberation of their land and culture. Although there are some attempts to examine the moral ambiguity of the situation, they're ultimately sidelined in favour of the smash-bang-boom style action that I lauded above (because, really, it is spectacular). A throwaway mention of Pakistan at the end of the book, in a story set well before the independence and partitioning of India and the conception of the Pakistan region by that name, indicates that little care was put into representing India as an historical entity so much as an exotic, colonial setting for another steampunk romp. It's hard to get mad at this series; taking liberties with history is what it is all about, after all. But I think it's important to engage with these problems, even when we might be tempted to excuse them by labelling the books as less "serious" (whatever that means).
Don't get me wrong, though: as much as this book has a few problems, I hella enjoyed every moment of it. The plotting and scenes are just so tightly managed and written; Ballantine and Morris wring every last shred of suspense out of this story. There are some juicy moments with the House of Usher, where we see that the fallout from previous books has shaken the House to its very foundation. And Books and Braun continually have to adjust and course-correct as new information becomes available. As a result, Ballantine and Morris keep them (and us) guessing right until the very end.
As far as I'm aware, the next novel is going to be the conclusion of the series (at least for Books and Braun's adventures). As sad as I am to see the series coming to its close, I like that Ballantine and Morris have a plan. I'm so curious to see how they intend to wrap up these storylines. My only hope is that they manage to present Books and Braun with some deeper, more meaningful challenges in the next story, ones that bring them back to their roots from the very first books.
My reviews of the Ministry of Peculiar Occurrences series:
← The Diamond Conspiracy
Books and Braun are on the trail of Dr. Henry Jekyll. In this universe, Jekyll's medical talents have allowed him to develop a serum that is basically steroids+--but with all the terrible side-effects one might remember from Jekyll and Hyde. B&B are hoping to trap Jekyll by following an associate, Dr. Featherstone. Their journey takes them to India, where they get caught up in fighting against the Ghost Rebellion, who have been furnished with technology by Jekyll.
Meanwhile, Agents Campbell and Hill are dispatched to Russia to find a cure for Queen Victoria's terminal ailment. They have to infiltrate a Russian factory held by the House of Usher. Fortunately, they have the assistance of Ryfka, a crack sniper and deaf woman who is ready to put her life on the line to stop Usher's operation in its tracks. They quickly find that they have bitten off more than they can chew. Like most missions with the Ministry of Peculiar Occurrences, the parameters expand exponentially....
I love the dual A/B plot structure in The Ghost Rebellion. Although Ballantine and Morris have often given us different perspectives in previous books, particularly glimpses at the villains' plotting, Campbell and Hill's story gets a lot of page-time--and that's great. Not that I don't love B&B, of course, but Ballantine and Morris effectively balance these stories so you're kept wanting more of one just as they switch to another.
Neither plot lacks for action. There are gunfights. There are fistfights. There are gun-and-fist-and-holy-hell-is-that-power-armor?-and-hey-who-brought-the-tank-and-fuck-we're-fucked-we're-all-screwed fights. Although I suspect the vast majority of people picking up this book are series fans, a newcomer might enjoy this book for the action alone. Everyone gets a chance to shine in their own way (although if I name names, I'm going into spoiler territory, if you know what I mean).
Books and Braun's relationship continues to advance in interesting ways. This might be one of the book's weaker areas--there isn't as much character development here. There are plenty of callbacks to what we have already learned about Books' past. This includes a fairly intense and kind of disturbing sequence in which Books basically gets a bunch of inexperienced agents killed and then goes off as a result, to bloody ends. Braun, likewise, doesn't see much development. No real new backstory tidbits.
Together, though? I love how they have conversations like adults. They don't tiptoe around issues. They know their lives are weird and perilous--and they always resolve to deal with it together. I think the reason I like Books and Braun so much is that theirs is a relationship that is so healthy. They are totally a relationship of equals, complementing each other in skills and interests but always, always consulting and compromising instead of deferring or manipulating. Books and Braun do not play games. And that is what makes them such a formidable, amazing couple.
The other area in which The Ghost Rebellion is lacking is the eponymous antagonists. I appreciate Ballantine and Morris' effort to once again take us to an exotic location in their steampunk Victorian world. I'm not so chuffed with how it feels like Books and Braun are on the wrong side of the conflicts, here, defending Britain's imperialist interests from people seeking (albeit violently) liberation of their land and culture. Although there are some attempts to examine the moral ambiguity of the situation, they're ultimately sidelined in favour of the smash-bang-boom style action that I lauded above (because, really, it is spectacular). A throwaway mention of Pakistan at the end of the book, in a story set well before the independence and partitioning of India and the conception of the Pakistan region by that name, indicates that little care was put into representing India as an historical entity so much as an exotic, colonial setting for another steampunk romp. It's hard to get mad at this series; taking liberties with history is what it is all about, after all. But I think it's important to engage with these problems, even when we might be tempted to excuse them by labelling the books as less "serious" (whatever that means).
Don't get me wrong, though: as much as this book has a few problems, I hella enjoyed every moment of it. The plotting and scenes are just so tightly managed and written; Ballantine and Morris wring every last shred of suspense out of this story. There are some juicy moments with the House of Usher, where we see that the fallout from previous books has shaken the House to its very foundation. And Books and Braun continually have to adjust and course-correct as new information becomes available. As a result, Ballantine and Morris keep them (and us) guessing right until the very end.
As far as I'm aware, the next novel is going to be the conclusion of the series (at least for Books and Braun's adventures). As sad as I am to see the series coming to its close, I like that Ballantine and Morris have a plan. I'm so curious to see how they intend to wrap up these storylines. My only hope is that they manage to present Books and Braun with some deeper, more meaningful challenges in the next story, ones that bring them back to their roots from the very first books.
My reviews of the Ministry of Peculiar Occurrences series:
← The Diamond Conspiracy
April 4, 2018
This one might just be a 3.95. I liked it. It fits in with the rest of the series. It had surprises and twists, well done descriptions and action scenes. But for me personally the story might be the worse of the five so far. I hate to use the word worse, though, because it is not bad. I enjoyed the romp with my two favorite steampunk heroes. Yet it doesn't draw me like the previous books. Part of it might be how powerful Dr. Jekyll is. That is all of a spoiler I will include but that part of the plot didn't sit well with me. I still will read the next one and I will no doubt enjoy it. Because the writing is very good and the rest of the plot is good. And I like some of the devices they come up with.
So as I said whatever problems I had with are personal and not with their writing ability. Others will probably love that part.
So as I said whatever problems I had with are personal and not with their writing ability. Others will probably love that part.
February 9, 2018
I drive an hour to and from work every day listening to audio books. This is the fifth book in this series, and the narration was wonderful until this book. Unfortunately, the authors decided to do the narration in The Ghost Rebellion. UGH. HUGE MISTAKE. It completely ruined the book. After becoming accustomed to the previous narrator, it is rather jarring to have new narration. I mean, one of the authors isn't even English. The main character is ENGLISH. It was very distracting and highly dissappointing. After four books, you get used to characters sounding a certain way. Please bring back the narrator of the previous four books for the sixth book. I was once a fan of the series, and I would like to be again. If the authors continue to narrate I won't bother with the next book.
July 27, 2016
Authors who do inadequate research end up writing shallow books. The setting is mid to late Victorian England. The stage is India.
And the author mentions Pakistan!!!
Pakistan was created as a consequence of British withdrawal from India. To suppose it existed while the British were in full control just goes to show how little the authors know about the geography in which they base their book.
The stars had reduced a lot by that point anyway - too much flash bang, very little character development, too many similar story lines and plot endings. The series is lumbering.
And the author mentions Pakistan!!!
Pakistan was created as a consequence of British withdrawal from India. To suppose it existed while the British were in full control just goes to show how little the authors know about the geography in which they base their book.
The stars had reduced a lot by that point anyway - too much flash bang, very little character development, too many similar story lines and plot endings. The series is lumbering.
March 14, 2018
Holy hell is this one action packed adventure. I don't think there was a moment where I felt I could relax and catch my breath. It was a constant onslaught of fist fights, gun fights, out-witting, out-conniving, and fleeing to and fro. This was a beautiful disaster from beginning to end. And I loved (almost) every moment of it.
The Ministry is still repairing itself from last time, where just about everything was shot to hell. While Books and Braun are chasing down Dr. Jekyll in Inida, Campbell and Hill are tasked with infiltrating a Russian factory in search of a mysterious product. To say that everyone is way in over their heads is an understatement.
Where I take most issue with this book is how solid the Ministry and their counterparts in the Army believe their occupation of India is a good thing. The fighters opposing the occupation have a good point - why should they give up their resources, language, and culture to an Empire they don't even want to belong to? But, that's not how the Ministry see it. That was the most frustrating part of this book for me. I so desperately wanted the opposition to win that fight, stand their ground, reclaim their land. But that would have been to the detriment of the Ministry and their plan to apprehend (or kill, whatever works) Jekyll. The cognitive dissonance was quite strong with this one.
And now, onto the characters!! There wasn't much in terms of character development, which is usually what I enjoy most in a book. But with so much going on all at the same time and being transported back and forth between Russia and India, I can definitely understand that speeding up the plot took precedence. Going back and forth made for really good pacing. It kept me on my toes, and made for quite a few chapters with cliffhangers. I quite liked it.
It was nice to see Campbell back in the throws of action - especially after acting like a royal prat. His partnership with Hill is a delight. Their banter makes me giggle continuously. Especially after they're joined by Ryfka, who is bloody fantastic. I am so smitten with her, I will honestly be upset if she doesn't make an appearance in the next (and final) installment of this series.
In the same manner, Books and Braun have always brought a smile to my face with this squabbles and oppositions. But damn it all if they don't make a fabulous pair. Their romantic relationship is in full bloom, and with it comes the easy adjustment of how they communicate with each other. There are no misunderstandings. They relish in each others' strengths and balance each other out wonderfully.
All in all, The Ghost Rebellion did a brilliant job of leading us up to what is going to be one hell of a final showdown.
The Ministry is still repairing itself from last time, where just about everything was shot to hell. While Books and Braun are chasing down Dr. Jekyll in Inida, Campbell and Hill are tasked with infiltrating a Russian factory in search of a mysterious product. To say that everyone is way in over their heads is an understatement.
Where I take most issue with this book is how solid the Ministry and their counterparts in the Army believe their occupation of India is a good thing. The fighters opposing the occupation have a good point - why should they give up their resources, language, and culture to an Empire they don't even want to belong to? But, that's not how the Ministry see it. That was the most frustrating part of this book for me. I so desperately wanted the opposition to win that fight, stand their ground, reclaim their land. But that would have been to the detriment of the Ministry and their plan to apprehend (or kill, whatever works) Jekyll. The cognitive dissonance was quite strong with this one.
And now, onto the characters!! There wasn't much in terms of character development, which is usually what I enjoy most in a book. But with so much going on all at the same time and being transported back and forth between Russia and India, I can definitely understand that speeding up the plot took precedence. Going back and forth made for really good pacing. It kept me on my toes, and made for quite a few chapters with cliffhangers. I quite liked it.
It was nice to see Campbell back in the throws of action - especially after acting like a royal prat. His partnership with Hill is a delight. Their banter makes me giggle continuously. Especially after they're joined by Ryfka, who is bloody fantastic. I am so smitten with her, I will honestly be upset if she doesn't make an appearance in the next (and final) installment of this series.
In the same manner, Books and Braun have always brought a smile to my face with this squabbles and oppositions. But damn it all if they don't make a fabulous pair. Their romantic relationship is in full bloom, and with it comes the easy adjustment of how they communicate with each other. There are no misunderstandings. They relish in each others' strengths and balance each other out wonderfully.
All in all, The Ghost Rebellion did a brilliant job of leading us up to what is going to be one hell of a final showdown.
September 27, 2018
Queen Victoria is close to death and the only cure is a rare ingredient found in Russia where agents Brandon Hill and Bruce Campbell have been tasked with tracking it down. Meanwhile our dashing duo Eliza D Braun and Wellington Books are on the trail of Dr Henry Jekyll - who has been up to his old tricks of experimenting on the aristocracy of Europe.
This is book 5 in The Peculiar Occurrences series. A SteamPunk adventure full of mad gadgets and high action.
This is book 5 in The Peculiar Occurrences series. A SteamPunk adventure full of mad gadgets and high action.
February 12, 2017
Really enjoy this series, but somehow, this volume just wasn't doing it for me. Couldn't get into the storyline, and there didn't seem to be much delving into the beloved characters and relationships this time. While I am sad to see that there is only going to be one more book in this series, I just hope that the last one goes out with way more of a bang than this one held.
September 3, 2022
The Ministry of Peculiar Occurrences is, far and away, my favorite saga of alternative history, sci-fi steampunk, and espionage adventure. Strong characters, creative world (and history) building, and some really inventive mash-ups of monsters and mechanicals have made each book more interesting than the last.
With their fifth full-length tale, The Ghost Rebellion, Pip Ballantine & Tee Morris have upped the ante once again, thrusting Books & Braun into the battlefields of India, and dropping Brandon & Bruce into the cold depths of Russia. It's the first time in the series that we've had a pair of stories working in parallel, with separate missions advancing the plot, and it makes for a more well-rounded story. Combined with some darker interludes that both open up the story and reveal some of the connections between the previous books, this may be the series' strongest entry in terms of narrative.
Of course, it's the characters who make this series work so well, and it's their ongoing development that makes each new book a must-read. I really like where Books & Braun are in their relationship, with that perfect blend of affection and good-natured aggravation between them. They're both capable of carrying the story on their own, but the way they play off each other really makes the story work. As for Brandon & Bruce, they began to evolve out of the mismatched, awkward partner role in the last book, and they really get a chance to take on some of the heroics here. They're still responsible for some of the most consistently amusing aspects of the story, but they also get some deeper, more significant moments.
The story really kicks it up a notch in terms of technology this time around as well. The 'ghosts' of the title are really victims of an abused æthergate technology that was dangerously unstable to begin with, and there are some chilling implications to their rather un-tethered fates. While the tools and weapons in the series just keep getting bigger and badder, nothing tops the scene where Braun so gleefully takes control of a giant mech, basically flipping switches and slapping at buttons to see what happens, until she hits the self-destruct and initiates the ride of her life. It's not just all fun and adventure, however - Ballantine & Morris really get into the whole politics and culture of India at the time, never shying away from the racism, segregation, and exploitation that came with being part of the British Empire.
Although this is clearly not the last we'll see of Books & Braun, the Ministry itself, or the House of Usher, Ballantine & Morris have spared us the anxiety of another cliffhanger this time around. There are a lot of story pieces still to be picked up - not the least of which are Books' dark history, the eventual fate of Dr. Jekyll, and the tease of Ragnarök - so hopefully the series will keep on rolling.
As a final note, if you're new to the series, do yourself a favor and check out Phoenix Rising first. You won't regret it.
Originally reviewed at Beauty in Ruins
With their fifth full-length tale, The Ghost Rebellion, Pip Ballantine & Tee Morris have upped the ante once again, thrusting Books & Braun into the battlefields of India, and dropping Brandon & Bruce into the cold depths of Russia. It's the first time in the series that we've had a pair of stories working in parallel, with separate missions advancing the plot, and it makes for a more well-rounded story. Combined with some darker interludes that both open up the story and reveal some of the connections between the previous books, this may be the series' strongest entry in terms of narrative.
Of course, it's the characters who make this series work so well, and it's their ongoing development that makes each new book a must-read. I really like where Books & Braun are in their relationship, with that perfect blend of affection and good-natured aggravation between them. They're both capable of carrying the story on their own, but the way they play off each other really makes the story work. As for Brandon & Bruce, they began to evolve out of the mismatched, awkward partner role in the last book, and they really get a chance to take on some of the heroics here. They're still responsible for some of the most consistently amusing aspects of the story, but they also get some deeper, more significant moments.
The story really kicks it up a notch in terms of technology this time around as well. The 'ghosts' of the title are really victims of an abused æthergate technology that was dangerously unstable to begin with, and there are some chilling implications to their rather un-tethered fates. While the tools and weapons in the series just keep getting bigger and badder, nothing tops the scene where Braun so gleefully takes control of a giant mech, basically flipping switches and slapping at buttons to see what happens, until she hits the self-destruct and initiates the ride of her life. It's not just all fun and adventure, however - Ballantine & Morris really get into the whole politics and culture of India at the time, never shying away from the racism, segregation, and exploitation that came with being part of the British Empire.
Although this is clearly not the last we'll see of Books & Braun, the Ministry itself, or the House of Usher, Ballantine & Morris have spared us the anxiety of another cliffhanger this time around. There are a lot of story pieces still to be picked up - not the least of which are Books' dark history, the eventual fate of Dr. Jekyll, and the tease of Ragnarök - so hopefully the series will keep on rolling.
As a final note, if you're new to the series, do yourself a favor and check out Phoenix Rising first. You won't regret it.
Originally reviewed at Beauty in Ruins
Disclaimer: I received a complimentary ARC of this title from the author in exchange for review consideration. This does not in any way affect the honesty or sincerity of my review.
March 19, 2023
After almost eight years, I have finally gotten a hold of the last two Ministry of Peculiar Occurrences novels. Color me delighted.
The Ghost Rebellion finds our Dashing Archivist, Agent Wellington Books and Colonial Pepperpot, Eliza D. Braun once again being sidetracked in their search for evil mad scientist, Jekyll, by a rebellion in India.
Meanwhile, things are dire in Old Blighty as Queen Victoria will soon die unless Agents Bruce Campbell and Brandon Hill have been sent to Russia (in winter) to fetch a Firebird's feather - a necessary ingredient in a medicine to cure her peculiar malady.
As per usual, Pip Ballantine and Tee Morris have concocted a wild ride that finds our four dashing protagonists on a madly careening adventure that introduces new steampunk tech, new villains (who, as with the best villains, see themselves as the heroes in the story) and sends them to new heights of derring-do - occasionally explosively so).
The writing evokes a more Dickensian world (if that world had steam-powered technological equivalents of modern weaponry and transport [and even totally bonkers other additions]).
There's even room for a (tasteful) love scene featuring Books and Braun!
As the high adventure (occasionally literally) continues to gallop to its proper conclusion, this penultimate chapter is great (and occasionally silly) fun.
After a minor palette cleanser, I shall endeavor to peruse Volume The Last of this series this week.
BTW, the thought crosses my mind that these books (and the collections of other Ministry short stories) might well make for a scintillating series of flickers or serials for the telly box. But that's probably just me...
The Ghost Rebellion finds our Dashing Archivist, Agent Wellington Books and Colonial Pepperpot, Eliza D. Braun once again being sidetracked in their search for evil mad scientist, Jekyll, by a rebellion in India.
Meanwhile, things are dire in Old Blighty as Queen Victoria will soon die unless Agents Bruce Campbell and Brandon Hill have been sent to Russia (in winter) to fetch a Firebird's feather - a necessary ingredient in a medicine to cure her peculiar malady.
As per usual, Pip Ballantine and Tee Morris have concocted a wild ride that finds our four dashing protagonists on a madly careening adventure that introduces new steampunk tech, new villains (who, as with the best villains, see themselves as the heroes in the story) and sends them to new heights of derring-do - occasionally explosively so).
The writing evokes a more Dickensian world (if that world had steam-powered technological equivalents of modern weaponry and transport [and even totally bonkers other additions]).
There's even room for a (tasteful) love scene featuring Books and Braun!
As the high adventure (occasionally literally) continues to gallop to its proper conclusion, this penultimate chapter is great (and occasionally silly) fun.
After a minor palette cleanser, I shall endeavor to peruse Volume The Last of this series this week.
BTW, the thought crosses my mind that these books (and the collections of other Ministry short stories) might well make for a scintillating series of flickers or serials for the telly box. But that's probably just me...
August 27, 2019
I got this book in a giveaway and as such, won't say much bad about it. There's not really much bad to say about it anyway, it's just not really my cup of tea.
I think if you like steam punk, you'll probably enjoy this series, the authors had some fun word play and the story follows a standard spy thriller formula. I would suggest starting at the beginning of the series as there is no explanation for anything; it's just assumed you know what the weapons are, who the characters are. It's very much book five in a series. That being said, if you like the genre, you'd probably catch on pretty fast.
It could have had another pass with an editor and considering it's a Kickstarter thing (It mentions its Kickstarter audience in the dedication), I feel like it would have had the capital up front to not skimp on that before publishing, but it's pretty clean for something self-published, although enough to pull me out of the story a few times while I'm otherwise trying to figure out what's going on.
Anyway, if you like the Victorian era locations and references, steam punk, and spy thrillers, you'll probably like this book, but maybe go back to book one.
I think if you like steam punk, you'll probably enjoy this series, the authors had some fun word play and the story follows a standard spy thriller formula. I would suggest starting at the beginning of the series as there is no explanation for anything; it's just assumed you know what the weapons are, who the characters are. It's very much book five in a series. That being said, if you like the genre, you'd probably catch on pretty fast.
It could have had another pass with an editor and considering it's a Kickstarter thing (It mentions its Kickstarter audience in the dedication), I feel like it would have had the capital up front to not skimp on that before publishing, but it's pretty clean for something self-published, although enough to pull me out of the story a few times while I'm otherwise trying to figure out what's going on.
Anyway, if you like the Victorian era locations and references, steam punk, and spy thrillers, you'll probably like this book, but maybe go back to book one.
February 21, 2017
Not my favorite. I love Eliza and welly but there was too little of them and I felt there were so many missed opportunities to delve into some personal issues for both of them. Welly went into Rambo mode and he doesn't even apologize for going after Eliza in the fray?? I know it wasn't anything too terrible, it's not like he shot her or anything but afterward they could have discussed his past and just his blow up in general. But alas, nothing. There was a nice little love scene but now that they are a real couple, I'm sorry but I expect more. Just tossing in a love scene doesn't make up for the lack of emotion. That means more one on one conversation and getting deeper into their lives. Too much mission, not enough personal/emotional interaction.
Oh and side note - the stuff with Bruce and Brandon in Russia?? How the heeeeell was that suppose to connect??? It felt totally separate from all else and maybe I missed something because I ended up skimming it, but damn. Felt way too disjointed.
If the next one is the last, maybe it's time. I'll miss them though, make no mistake.
Oh and side note - the stuff with Bruce and Brandon in Russia?? How the heeeeell was that suppose to connect??? It felt totally separate from all else and maybe I missed something because I ended up skimming it, but damn. Felt way too disjointed.
If the next one is the last, maybe it's time. I'll miss them though, make no mistake.
October 25, 2016
Having read this far into the series, I keep giving the authors 'one more chance' but, again, I found that this book didn't really hold my attention and I had to make a concerted effort to get to the end.
It doesn't suffer from quite the same story-telling excesses as the previous volume, but the continuing use of sci-fi-like plot devices such as teleportation in a supposedly steam-powered era still grates a bit. Stylistic affectations that I thought were clever in the first book are also starting to wear a bit thin.
With that said, it does build to an exciting set-piece climax and by the time the next (and potentially final) book is released, I'll probably have convinced myself to give it one more 'one more chance' just to see how the overarching story pans out. There's certainly plenty of unfinished business still to be concluded.
It doesn't suffer from quite the same story-telling excesses as the previous volume, but the continuing use of sci-fi-like plot devices such as teleportation in a supposedly steam-powered era still grates a bit. Stylistic affectations that I thought were clever in the first book are also starting to wear a bit thin.
With that said, it does build to an exciting set-piece climax and by the time the next (and potentially final) book is released, I'll probably have convinced myself to give it one more 'one more chance' just to see how the overarching story pans out. There's certainly plenty of unfinished business still to be concluded.
October 1, 2018
This one dragged a little bit for me and I had a hard time staying interested in the story. The characters are not as interesting as they were at the start and I had trouble with the bouncing back and forth between Books and Braun and Bruce and Brandon. I could have done without the Bruce/Brandon plot, it didn't have anything to do with the overall story for this particular book. It was completely unrelated to what was happening in India. Books and Braun are not really developing any further, we haven't learned anything new about either of them and I hope that the characters are wrapped up sufficiently in the last book. I am glad that the series only has one more book left, as it has lost its luster for me. Overall 2.5 out of 5 stars.
April 25, 2018
The story was as interesting as always, but I listen to these books and they changed narrators. That can be jarring to a listener! Why would the authors have the same narrator for 4 books (James Langton did a very job) then suddenly read it themselves... why?! It rather killed the experience for me and made it difficult to enjoy. Not just that, but it was read by both Pip Ballantine (she was decent) and Tee Morris (wasn't great). Unlike other books that are read by 2 narrators, there was no rhyme or reason for it ... they just flipped back and forth. So. Weird. I have one more book to go in the series and I'm almost afraid to see who is reading it to me.
January 10, 2025
The mysteries in the story are exciting, but perhaps aren't as unexpected or thought-provoking as some other mystery books. However, the interludes with Brandon and Campbell added a lot of excitement to the story for me.
The inclusion of famous historical figures such as Jekyll adds another fun element. I would say the most distinguishing and memorable part of this book is unique and outlandish inventions people come up with, from a to a , among many other things.
The inclusion of famous historical figures such as Jekyll adds another fun element. I would say the most distinguishing and memorable part of this book is unique and outlandish inventions people come up with, from a to a , among many other things.
September 1, 2017
Possibly the darkest book in the MoPO series to date, Ghost Rebellion has also been my favourite read so far. The action and intrigue kick off from the very first page and simply don't let up, right through to the cluster of cliffhanger story threads at the end which leave you hanging out for the next book, Operation: Endgame. Definitely delivering what fans of the series and the steampunk genre love. Highly recommended.
October 30, 2017
I like the inventiveness of the Ministry world. However, I found I was really annoyed with the overused technique of switching back and forth from two different story lines. I don't mind two story lines but switching at almost every single chapter is exceedingly annoying. It just yanks me out of the action and is confusing. Why not run with one storyline for several chapters and then switch over? I don't get it.
June 15, 2019
I usually enjoy the Ministry of Peculiar Occurrences and this time isn't that different. However, I found this one a bit more difficult to follow along with. One minute the characters are in one place and suddenly they are somewhere else in yet another fight. I got lost a couple times wondering what I missed. Overall, though, still an enjoyable read.
March 26, 2023
Vote: 3,75
Class: L-B3 (FP)
(fifth book of the Series)
A good urban steampunk fantasy, beautifully set in Victorian London (mostly) with a good set of characters and an entertaining story.
In the last two volumes the story is grown more interesting and more fast pacing and the characters remains fascinating.
A really good read.
Enjoyable.
Class: L-B3 (FP)
(fifth book of the Series)
A good urban steampunk fantasy, beautifully set in Victorian London (mostly) with a good set of characters and an entertaining story.
In the last two volumes the story is grown more interesting and more fast pacing and the characters remains fascinating.
A really good read.
Enjoyable.
August 3, 2018
The first was exciting, the second had an uninteresting plot, the third waa decent and the fourth was pretty good. This one had a boring plot again. The Russian stuff was great but the stuff in India was a drag.
December 11, 2022
I listened to the Audible recording and they’ve switched narrators, from the professional to the authors, who are mediocre shading into downright awful. I think the story was ok, but the book was ruined for my by the narration.
May 28, 2024
I love this series!
Although, I hate to say it, but I prefer the original narrator.
Ahhhhhh Sophia, I am enjoying where your character is going!! And The House of Usher and Hyde and Eliza and Welly.....
I really do love this series!!!!!
Straight onto the next!
Although, I hate to say it, but I prefer the original narrator.
Ahhhhhh Sophia, I am enjoying where your character is going!! And The House of Usher and Hyde and Eliza and Welly.....
I really do love this series!!!!!
Straight onto the next!
August 12, 2017
I really like this series.
April 15, 2018
I love a good chase, and the pursuit of Dr. Jekyll did not disappoint. Great fun!
May 9, 2018
It was okay it dragged on a bit and became tiresome. Why must we follow everyone to see what they are doing? The main characters should be sufficient enough.
September 8, 2018
It was good.
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