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The Tinderbox Tales #1
Making a Tinderbox
ASIN B075KRYL6F moved to the most recent edition
At first glance, the small continent of Arclid may appear similar to Great Britain at the beginning of the industrial revolution. However societal rules regarding gender, race, and sexuality are very different. These differences shape the lives of our protagonists, the would-be-princess Lady Elisandrine 'Elise' Falk and Nessa Clay, a farmer's daughter who’s chasing her dreams.
Having to leave their old lives behind, they decide to travel together. They find things that make them different and should keep them apart. They also find themselves magnetically drawn to each other, no matter how hard they resist their increasing longing for each other.
In the modern and dangerous city of Nightport, brimming with exciting innovations in clockwork and steam power, strange events start to surround them. Unknown men ask questions regarding their whereabouts and small packages wrapped neatly in midnight blue paper with white ribbon start to arrive.
With the help of some new friends they meet along the way, Elise and Nessa start to unravel the mysteries — and their feelings for one another.
At first glance, the small continent of Arclid may appear similar to Great Britain at the beginning of the industrial revolution. However societal rules regarding gender, race, and sexuality are very different. These differences shape the lives of our protagonists, the would-be-princess Lady Elisandrine 'Elise' Falk and Nessa Clay, a farmer's daughter who’s chasing her dreams.
Having to leave their old lives behind, they decide to travel together. They find things that make them different and should keep them apart. They also find themselves magnetically drawn to each other, no matter how hard they resist their increasing longing for each other.
In the modern and dangerous city of Nightport, brimming with exciting innovations in clockwork and steam power, strange events start to surround them. Unknown men ask questions regarding their whereabouts and small packages wrapped neatly in midnight blue paper with white ribbon start to arrive.
With the help of some new friends they meet along the way, Elise and Nessa start to unravel the mysteries — and their feelings for one another.
386 pages, ebook
First published October 9, 2017
44 people are currently reading
588 people want to read
About the author
Emma Sterner-Radley
28 books170 followersEmma Sterner-Radley spent far too much time hopping from subject to subject at university, back in her native country of Sweden. One day, she finally emerged with a degree in Library and Information Science. She thought libraries was her thing, because she wanted to work with books, and being an author was just an impossible dream, right? Wrong. She's now a writer and a publisher. (But still a librarian at heart, too.)
She lives with her wife and two cats in England. There is no point in saying which city, as they move about once a year. She spends her free time writing, reading, daydreaming, working out, and watching whichever television show has the most lesbian subtext at the time.
Her tastes in most things usually lean towards the quirky and she loves genres like urban fantasy, magic realism, and steampunk.
Emma is also a hopeless sap for any small chubby creature with tiny legs, and can often be found making heart-eyes at things like guinea pigs, wombats, marmots, and human toddlers.
She lives with her wife and two cats in England. There is no point in saying which city, as they move about once a year. She spends her free time writing, reading, daydreaming, working out, and watching whichever television show has the most lesbian subtext at the time.
Her tastes in most things usually lean towards the quirky and she loves genres like urban fantasy, magic realism, and steampunk.
Emma is also a hopeless sap for any small chubby creature with tiny legs, and can often be found making heart-eyes at things like guinea pigs, wombats, marmots, and human toddlers.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 62 reviews
October 16, 2017
I don't even know how to start with this one, but I am going to give it my best shot at articulating just how good this book was. One word summary, Wow. I was wowed, amazed, and totally spellbound by Making a Tinderbox. If I could read books like this one everyday life would be truly grand. This is one of those books you find and just turn to mush because it did everything right. It took a hold of my heart, as sad as I was that the story was over, I was dazzled by its brilliance as well.
Lady Elisandrine 'Elise' Falk has been told by the queen that she is to marry the queen's brother, Prince Macray in three months time. Elise, not being one to ever want to marry, especially to someone of the male persuasion, is undeniably angry at the situation she has been put in. She is literally being locked in a castle until her wedding day. Elise is a character that's smart, witty and has a ton of spirit. She is never one to hold her tongue and it tends to land her in a heap of trouble.
Nessa Clay is the direct opposite of Elise. A commoner who has worked beside her parents in a small town, taking care of the crops to make ends meet. She is quiet and self-conscious with a bit of a stutter. What draws you to Nessa is that she is both selfless and gracious. A strong, stoic woman that when needed arrises to the occasion. When Nessa meets Elise, and Elise requests her help she goes above and beyond to help the lady.
I think what really sets this book apart from so many others is how multi-layered it is. Sterner-Radley has given you a long detailed story. There are no cutting corners to save space, no rushed ending to wrap it up. The author takes her time and draws the characters out. Backstories are cleverly crafted, the scenes are set, and you feel the story and see it play out as you read along. What I loved most of all, and I am talking really, really fell in love with, is how the character’s chemistry between each other is just dynamite. It just jumps right off the page! You have sexiness, cuteness, agonizing angst and self-sacrifice all rolled into one epic adventure.
This is a book that has everything I look for and it does it to perfection. Fantastic characters, dazzling dialogue, a delicious plot full of adventure, angst and of course, romance. You cannot ask for more. Making a Tinderbox stole my heart from the very beginning and by the end I wanted to read it again.
***If I could give this six stars I would. How in the world have I read two books within a ten day time span that have been this amazing? I have just been giving out 5 stars like nobody's business.
Lady Elisandrine 'Elise' Falk has been told by the queen that she is to marry the queen's brother, Prince Macray in three months time. Elise, not being one to ever want to marry, especially to someone of the male persuasion, is undeniably angry at the situation she has been put in. She is literally being locked in a castle until her wedding day. Elise is a character that's smart, witty and has a ton of spirit. She is never one to hold her tongue and it tends to land her in a heap of trouble.
Nessa Clay is the direct opposite of Elise. A commoner who has worked beside her parents in a small town, taking care of the crops to make ends meet. She is quiet and self-conscious with a bit of a stutter. What draws you to Nessa is that she is both selfless and gracious. A strong, stoic woman that when needed arrises to the occasion. When Nessa meets Elise, and Elise requests her help she goes above and beyond to help the lady.
I think what really sets this book apart from so many others is how multi-layered it is. Sterner-Radley has given you a long detailed story. There are no cutting corners to save space, no rushed ending to wrap it up. The author takes her time and draws the characters out. Backstories are cleverly crafted, the scenes are set, and you feel the story and see it play out as you read along. What I loved most of all, and I am talking really, really fell in love with, is how the character’s chemistry between each other is just dynamite. It just jumps right off the page! You have sexiness, cuteness, agonizing angst and self-sacrifice all rolled into one epic adventure.
This is a book that has everything I look for and it does it to perfection. Fantastic characters, dazzling dialogue, a delicious plot full of adventure, angst and of course, romance. You cannot ask for more. Making a Tinderbox stole my heart from the very beginning and by the end I wanted to read it again.
***If I could give this six stars I would. How in the world have I read two books within a ten day time span that have been this amazing? I have just been giving out 5 stars like nobody's business.
April 13, 2018
I just wanna say wow. What a ride. I've always been a sucker for adventure (going from a place to another is adventure for me, so) novel, this one just hit the right spot. Well it's a great novel, mesmerizing world called Orb, medieval-ish (although it feels a lil fairy magic-ish one for me). A noble and a peasant = misunderstanding & insecurities
I like how the characters' depth being revealed tho.
Can't wait for the next book in this series. Maybe Sterner-Radley will explore the whole Orb, and other continent ofc.
I like how the characters' depth being revealed tho.
Can't wait for the next book in this series. Maybe Sterner-Radley will explore the whole Orb, and other continent ofc.
October 29, 2017
I *really* really really wanted to like this book. Royals, a bit of steam punk, Nessa's a pansexual (cheers really. Nice to see some rep out there), etc. Everything was in line for it to be a lovely book.
Instead they just treated each other like crap. The set up was there. Early on. I'm like oh it's going to be one of those. Very early on, and it's not spoilery, one says she's only into casual. The other says she's in it for the long haul. I knew then that it was a set up for disaster later on.
Yep. It totally was. From chapter 25 onward I couldn't care less what happened. When people treat each other so poorly it just causes me to page flip right passed it.
DNF 90%
Gutted. Absolutely disappointing. Fear wins the day here instead of love :(
Instead they just treated each other like crap. The set up was there. Early on. I'm like oh it's going to be one of those. Very early on, and it's not spoilery, one says she's only into casual. The other says she's in it for the long haul. I knew then that it was a set up for disaster later on.
Yep. It totally was. From chapter 25 onward I couldn't care less what happened. When people treat each other so poorly it just causes me to page flip right passed it.
DNF 90%
Gutted. Absolutely disappointing. Fear wins the day here instead of love :(
October 14, 2017
Nessa Clay, the farm daughter meets Elisandrine (Elise) Falk, the noblewoman, when the latter asks her to aid in her escape to the big city. Elisandrine wants to escape a pending marriage with the prince and Nessa wants to spread her wings away from parents at the farm, so she agrees to be her travel companion. Nice perk is that Elise has the money to finance their first weeks in the big city while they look for work.
Making a Tinderbox is marketed as a Steampunk novel but I personally got a more medieval vibe from it. Maybe it's the castles and clay huts in favor of gadgets, dirigibles and horseless carriages ;-) I had some questions early on. Why does Elise leave the castle without any spare clothes or even a coat? She had to borrow everything from Nessa, even down to the shoes (which proved to be a big mistake during the day's walk). If she has a purse chockfull with golds and silvers, why not arrange a carriage or a horse to get to the city instead of walking? Unless transport is ridiculously expensive in Ground Hollow, that just didn't make much sense to me.
The story progresses slowly, keeping out of sight from the royal guards the two arrive in the city, get a room, find a friend, find jobs, explore the city, find more friends, drink, drink some more. In the meantime feelings develop between Nessa and Elise. Maybe sharing one small bed between them has something to do with it. Elise is a woman who enjoys her bedsport and would have no problem taking it to the next level with Nessa. But the farm girl is not looking for sex without love so that seems a non starter. It wouldn't be a romance novel if they did not begin the secretly pine for each other though.
Then anonimous packages start to arrive at their address. It isn't until the third package that Elise suddenly realises who is after her. That's when things pick up.
I guess the story didn't wow me. The narrative meandered along with a lot of minor details and the story dind't pick up speed until the last few chapters. Apart from that one revelation at the end it just didn't have much that grabbed my interest. But that shouldn't prevent you from picking up this book and try it out. Your taste may vary.
f/f explicit
Themes: woefully unprepared to travel is an understatement, nobles vs. commoners, on the run from the royal guards, city life, bedsharing, sweet pumpkin oil, the story was average but the cover is very pretty, I miss the fire that was present in her fan fiction.
3.0 stars
* I recieved this ARC from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
Making a Tinderbox is marketed as a Steampunk novel but I personally got a more medieval vibe from it. Maybe it's the castles and clay huts in favor of gadgets, dirigibles and horseless carriages ;-) I had some questions early on. Why does Elise leave the castle without any spare clothes or even a coat? She had to borrow everything from Nessa, even down to the shoes (which proved to be a big mistake during the day's walk). If she has a purse chockfull with golds and silvers, why not arrange a carriage or a horse to get to the city instead of walking? Unless transport is ridiculously expensive in Ground Hollow, that just didn't make much sense to me.
The story progresses slowly, keeping out of sight from the royal guards the two arrive in the city, get a room, find a friend, find jobs, explore the city, find more friends, drink, drink some more. In the meantime feelings develop between Nessa and Elise. Maybe sharing one small bed between them has something to do with it. Elise is a woman who enjoys her bedsport and would have no problem taking it to the next level with Nessa. But the farm girl is not looking for sex without love so that seems a non starter. It wouldn't be a romance novel if they did not begin the secretly pine for each other though.
Then anonimous packages start to arrive at their address. It isn't until the third package that Elise suddenly realises who is after her. That's when things pick up.
I guess the story didn't wow me. The narrative meandered along with a lot of minor details and the story dind't pick up speed until the last few chapters. Apart from that one revelation at the end it just didn't have much that grabbed my interest. But that shouldn't prevent you from picking up this book and try it out. Your taste may vary.
f/f explicit
Themes: woefully unprepared to travel is an understatement, nobles vs. commoners, on the run from the royal guards, city life, bedsharing, sweet pumpkin oil, the story was average but the cover is very pretty, I miss the fire that was present in her fan fiction.
3.0 stars
* I recieved this ARC from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
October 21, 2017
This one is amazing! My first from the author.
I’m really impressed with her imagination. Now, I want try sugar pumpkins I wish they were real.
The book’s setting is from another world name The Orb.
Where everything’s the same with earth but also not.
Yeah I know, you have to read to find out.
Elise came from a noble family and she’s bound to marry the Prince. She’s a big flirt but she’s also sweet and caring.
Don’t mess with her because she got a really bad temper.
She’s not good on relationships an opposite of Nessa.
Nessa is a farmers daughter. She’s hard working and very kind. She wanted an adventure but she’s afraid to leave her comfort zone.
She’s also oblivious with people who has feelings for her.
My favorite secondary character is Hunter. I’m curious to his backstory I hope he’s still part of the sequel.
4stars and not 5 because I felt like something is missing or maybe I’m just expecting something to happen. It’s just me.
Can’t wait for the sequel!! :))
I’m really impressed with her imagination. Now, I want try sugar pumpkins I wish they were real.
The book’s setting is from another world name The Orb.
Where everything’s the same with earth but also not.
Yeah I know, you have to read to find out.
Elise came from a noble family and she’s bound to marry the Prince. She’s a big flirt but she’s also sweet and caring.
Don’t mess with her because she got a really bad temper.
She’s not good on relationships an opposite of Nessa.
Nessa is a farmers daughter. She’s hard working and very kind. She wanted an adventure but she’s afraid to leave her comfort zone.
She’s also oblivious with people who has feelings for her.
My favorite secondary character is Hunter. I’m curious to his backstory I hope he’s still part of the sequel.
4stars and not 5 because I felt like something is missing or maybe I’m just expecting something to happen. It’s just me.
Can’t wait for the sequel!! :))
November 15, 2020
Kindle Unlimited. 6+hours. A wonderful slow burn romance of two opposites in a strange world of farming and industrial revolution and yet social liberation. The city they end up in is almost steampunk with gaslamps and factories with powered machines. Plus talk of railroads and steam engines. Yet there is royalty and castles, Nobles and Workers. Sexuality isn't really an issue in this world, neither is gender identity, which was refreshing.
Elise is a Noble who is being forced into a marriage to a Prince whom she simply doesn't care for, nor is attracted to. She defines herself as a lesbian, enjoying 'bedplay' with those of her sex and is a strong fiery woman who often does what she wants and is outspoken and fun. She doesn't take much seriously, especially relationships. Infact she is averse to them, simply enjoying casual sex.
By chance she meets the more introverted farmgirl, Nessa, who is looking to leave her small farming community and make a life for herself in the city. Elise intends to tag along to escape her betrothal. Both are enamoured with eachother from the start, and thus starts an excruciatingly slow burn romance that continues through their adventure to the city, in their jobs and living arrangements.
Nessa is more cautious in life, and relationships. She is pansexual, not caring about the gender of her lovers - but wanting a deeper connection first before any bedding. She wants a serious and long-term relationship, and so because of these differences in attitudes toward sex that both are upfront about discussing - both Nessa and Elise find themselves pinning for the other during their time together, while sharing a bed in a boarding house, often cuddling through the night, becoming close intimate friends who do everything together.
Everyone around them can see the attraction and connection, but both try to deny it. It's an exceedingly frustrating road to get there, and even when they do - misunderstandings and miscommunication thwart their progress. Plus someone from Elise's past.
It's a long tale, with much internal monologuing and details in the minutiae of the land and its functions, and people. Which I actually enjoyed. But I can see how it could be seen as tedious. I did find it lengthy with not a lot of actual things happening to move the plot along, it's very much just slice of life in this strange new place, with our two love-lost ladies. But it still managed to capture my heart with it's charms and uniqueness.
I'm looking forward to book 2. But may read a little something inbetween for a little break.
Elise is a Noble who is being forced into a marriage to a Prince whom she simply doesn't care for, nor is attracted to. She defines herself as a lesbian, enjoying 'bedplay' with those of her sex and is a strong fiery woman who often does what she wants and is outspoken and fun. She doesn't take much seriously, especially relationships. Infact she is averse to them, simply enjoying casual sex.
By chance she meets the more introverted farmgirl, Nessa, who is looking to leave her small farming community and make a life for herself in the city. Elise intends to tag along to escape her betrothal. Both are enamoured with eachother from the start, and thus starts an excruciatingly slow burn romance that continues through their adventure to the city, in their jobs and living arrangements.
Nessa is more cautious in life, and relationships. She is pansexual, not caring about the gender of her lovers - but wanting a deeper connection first before any bedding. She wants a serious and long-term relationship, and so because of these differences in attitudes toward sex that both are upfront about discussing - both Nessa and Elise find themselves pinning for the other during their time together, while sharing a bed in a boarding house, often cuddling through the night, becoming close intimate friends who do everything together.
Everyone around them can see the attraction and connection, but both try to deny it. It's an exceedingly frustrating road to get there, and even when they do - misunderstandings and miscommunication thwart their progress. Plus someone from Elise's past.
It's a long tale, with much internal monologuing and details in the minutiae of the land and its functions, and people. Which I actually enjoyed. But I can see how it could be seen as tedious. I did find it lengthy with not a lot of actual things happening to move the plot along, it's very much just slice of life in this strange new place, with our two love-lost ladies. But it still managed to capture my heart with it's charms and uniqueness.
I'm looking forward to book 2. But may read a little something inbetween for a little break.
November 12, 2017
This was a beautiful and unique story. Part historical fiction part entirely other world. I loved the flexibility that this gave to let the people of this world be diverse in their sexuality and gender. I loved the world the author created. The characters were all brilliant. I fell in love with all of them. And my god the romance just about killed me. I didn't realize until I wasn't nearly done the book that this was the first book in a series! I can't wait to read the next book because this was amazing.
January 31, 2018
Really enjoyed this. Nice word building but a nicely sweet romance as well. It's a steal on Kindle Unlimited!
March 24, 2025
4 Stars
I reckon the author’s introduction was such a helpful nudge in the right direction when it came to the setting. Some would disagree and say it’s best to leave it up to the reader to decide. I beg to differ because once the seed was planted, it was easy for me to borrow Oliver Twist’s setting and let it all play out.
The characters were well grounded. The difference in their imagining - their physical appearance, stature, life experiences and personalities were distinct and solid and it carried throughout the novel. It doesn’t only extend to the main characters. Each side character was well defined and left them memorable and easy to pick out.
My favourite part was the pining at the beginning of the story. I love me some pining and a bit of jealousy here and there. However, the dynamic of the pining got just a little bit too much in Act 2. The usual miscommunication was also thrown in and it just muddled my earlier positive feeling. Nevertheless, because the setup was strong, it gave the story enough clout for me to hold on to my positive impression of the story.
The Resolution was a little too easy and peaceful that my brain sort of glossed over it. It’s not a bad thing, no not at all. It was just safe and unexacting.
Overall, I truly enjoyed reading Making a Tinderbox by Emma Sterner-Radley. Identifying a specific genre for the book is quite difficult as it doesn’t seem to fall on a specific category. No matter, because I plan to read the series anyway.
I reckon the author’s introduction was such a helpful nudge in the right direction when it came to the setting. Some would disagree and say it’s best to leave it up to the reader to decide. I beg to differ because once the seed was planted, it was easy for me to borrow Oliver Twist’s setting and let it all play out.
The characters were well grounded. The difference in their imagining - their physical appearance, stature, life experiences and personalities were distinct and solid and it carried throughout the novel. It doesn’t only extend to the main characters. Each side character was well defined and left them memorable and easy to pick out.
My favourite part was the pining at the beginning of the story. I love me some pining and a bit of jealousy here and there. However, the dynamic of the pining got just a little bit too much in Act 2. The usual miscommunication was also thrown in and it just muddled my earlier positive feeling. Nevertheless, because the setup was strong, it gave the story enough clout for me to hold on to my positive impression of the story.
The Resolution was a little too easy and peaceful that my brain sort of glossed over it. It’s not a bad thing, no not at all. It was just safe and unexacting.
Overall, I truly enjoyed reading Making a Tinderbox by Emma Sterner-Radley. Identifying a specific genre for the book is quite difficult as it doesn’t seem to fall on a specific category. No matter, because I plan to read the series anyway.
September 7, 2020
Elise and Nessa are so very different but they're both endearingly likeable. The storyline is slow, I thought they'd been at Nightport for a month or so but it was only two weeks, and so much happens to the women in the short time.
I look forward to reading about their next adventure.
I look forward to reading about their next adventure.
July 12, 2018
The great things of this book are the atmosphere, the mistery.
World building deserves a praise, it is the real richness of this novel, a new world, a new geography, a new society on the verge of the first hints of modernity given by steam power, and gas lights. It is a mix of an epic fantasy and a victorian english environment. Total originality!
There's a sort of promising non-magical, magical undertone. And the book is full of moments of delightful charm.
I loved the main characters, they are both adorable and three-dimensional.
And yet I must honestly say that the potential of this book is not fully developed. Not into fantasy, because magic is just hinted once and nothing more, and I did not fully appreciate the adventure, because there's far too much drinking and I always have issues in reading that.
Romance itself is quite great, but while the meeting is sweet and intriguing, after a while there is too much non-communication, which is one of my pet peeves.
I had the desire of something more.. more intrigue, more action, more magic... and less romance.
(Yep, it's me speaking!)
I go for 3.5 stars rounded up.
World building deserves a praise, it is the real richness of this novel, a new world, a new geography, a new society on the verge of the first hints of modernity given by steam power, and gas lights. It is a mix of an epic fantasy and a victorian english environment. Total originality!
There's a sort of promising non-magical, magical undertone. And the book is full of moments of delightful charm.
I loved the main characters, they are both adorable and three-dimensional.
And yet I must honestly say that the potential of this book is not fully developed. Not into fantasy, because magic is just hinted once and nothing more, and I did not fully appreciate the adventure, because there's far too much drinking and I always have issues in reading that.
Romance itself is quite great, but while the meeting is sweet and intriguing, after a while there is too much non-communication, which is one of my pet peeves.
I had the desire of something more.. more intrigue, more action, more magic... and less romance.
(Yep, it's me speaking!)
I go for 3.5 stars rounded up.
October 13, 2017
I must say this, I am always delighted and enchanted by any book I read by this author. She is a superb storyteller and this story was wonderfully written. This story brought up so many important themes of self-acceptance and embracing people who differ from the majority. This story was a lovely blend of historical, fantasy with a healthy dose of contemporary romance thrown in. Nessa Clay spent the majority of her life working on her parents' farm and she seeks safety and consistency but her entire world has been tilted upside down by an assertive and affable noble lady name Elisandrine Falk. Both women set out on a mind blowing journey that will test them on so many levels and make them question who they really are. Nessa and Elisandrine have stolen my heart with their strengths and imperfections. Their imperfections are endearing and it brought them to life for me and in turn they both breathed life into the entire novel with their constant stumblings and the immense character growth they underwent.
October 12, 2017
Making a Tinderbox was a lovely book with romance, suspense, drama, humor, and friendship.
The book is about Elise, a noble woman, trying to escape a marriage to a prince and Nessa, a farmer's daughter, trying to start a life of her own away from home. When these two characters cross paths they end up embarking on a journey to Nightport together. They seem to be very opposite characters, but end up getting along really well. When they end up in Nightport, they rent a room and end up sharing a bed. The book explores their growing relationship with both thinking the other does not see them as another other than a friend. They also meet good friends on their adventure. There's also some suspense when they start receiving strange packages from a mystery person.
The characters were all well thought out and different. I found them to be very relatable. Nessa never being able to see when someone has developed feelings for her is definitely something that I can identify with. The book has characters with different sexualities and gender identities. It even explored some of how negatively those things are viewed while also having them be accepted. The friendships that developed in the book were great to read about and made me want to see more of them.
I loved that the book had the sharing a bed trope and the unrequited love trope. We all knew eventually Elise and Nessa would end up sleeping together. It hurt my heart reading the chapters from Elise's perspective and seeing how in love she was with Nessa. I love that their friends were supportive of their possible relationship and gave them advice.
When I got to chapter 25 in my head I was saying "Emma, whyyyy?" because of the drama that had my heart upset. I also wanted to shake Nessa to make her open her eyes to the obvious. But at the same time I loved the drama of it.
Another thing I loved was the hint of magic when they reread the fortune they had gotten when they first arrived at Nightport and find that it had been very accurate.
The ending of the book definitely set the stage for a new adventure for Nessa and Elise.
I really loved the book and would recommend it.
The book is about Elise, a noble woman, trying to escape a marriage to a prince and Nessa, a farmer's daughter, trying to start a life of her own away from home. When these two characters cross paths they end up embarking on a journey to Nightport together. They seem to be very opposite characters, but end up getting along really well. When they end up in Nightport, they rent a room and end up sharing a bed. The book explores their growing relationship with both thinking the other does not see them as another other than a friend. They also meet good friends on their adventure. There's also some suspense when they start receiving strange packages from a mystery person.
The characters were all well thought out and different. I found them to be very relatable. Nessa never being able to see when someone has developed feelings for her is definitely something that I can identify with. The book has characters with different sexualities and gender identities. It even explored some of how negatively those things are viewed while also having them be accepted. The friendships that developed in the book were great to read about and made me want to see more of them.
I loved that the book had the sharing a bed trope and the unrequited love trope. We all knew eventually Elise and Nessa would end up sleeping together. It hurt my heart reading the chapters from Elise's perspective and seeing how in love she was with Nessa. I love that their friends were supportive of their possible relationship and gave them advice.
When I got to chapter 25 in my head I was saying "Emma, whyyyy?" because of the drama that had my heart upset. I also wanted to shake Nessa to make her open her eyes to the obvious. But at the same time I loved the drama of it.
Another thing I loved was the hint of magic when they reread the fortune they had gotten when they first arrived at Nightport and find that it had been very accurate.
The ending of the book definitely set the stage for a new adventure for Nessa and Elise.
I really loved the book and would recommend it.
January 3, 2018
Wow, what a tale!
At first, I thought this is a tough one to read because of the use of specific words/language but with each chapter I became more and more comfortable with it and I can truthfully say that I have enjoyed it immensely. I loved their turbulent life, the diversity in the mesmerising characters, the vividly descriptions of the places and people, the little mystery, the intriguing time period, the humour and of course the romance. In one word, splendid! Now I look forward to the next one.
At first, I thought this is a tough one to read because of the use of specific words/language but with each chapter I became more and more comfortable with it and I can truthfully say that I have enjoyed it immensely. I loved their turbulent life, the diversity in the mesmerising characters, the vividly descriptions of the places and people, the little mystery, the intriguing time period, the humour and of course the romance. In one word, splendid! Now I look forward to the next one.
October 14, 2017
Making a Tinderbox (The Tinderbox Tales #1 - ooh, there's going to be more? great!) is a fantasy novel set in a land on the brink of the industrial revolution. There are queens, kings and knights, peasants and city-dwellers - but also printing (books, newspapers), small industry and rumours of steam trains.
Lady Elisandre, soon to be wed to a prince, wants out of an arranged marriage. Nessa, a farmer's daughter, is in search of a better life and a new profession - not what her parents want. Together these two leave the small village for the nearest city, to find their fortunes, and to live on their own terms.
At first everything seems to go smoothly - despite a slight tension between the two young protagonists - but of course nothing is ever too easy. The author promises "sexual tension, humour, looming danger, unique characters and booze-soaked adventures" and that promise is well and truly fulfilled.
I love it when a fantasy story doesn't take itself too seriously but plays with tropes and clichés. I'm also a sucker for sweet slow-burn romance so when someone combines these two, I'm a very happy reader indeed. Extra points for a world where gender or sexual identity can be just about anything and it's no big deal.
Lady Elisandre, soon to be wed to a prince, wants out of an arranged marriage. Nessa, a farmer's daughter, is in search of a better life and a new profession - not what her parents want. Together these two leave the small village for the nearest city, to find their fortunes, and to live on their own terms.
At first everything seems to go smoothly - despite a slight tension between the two young protagonists - but of course nothing is ever too easy. The author promises "sexual tension, humour, looming danger, unique characters and booze-soaked adventures" and that promise is well and truly fulfilled.
I love it when a fantasy story doesn't take itself too seriously but plays with tropes and clichés. I'm also a sucker for sweet slow-burn romance so when someone combines these two, I'm a very happy reader indeed. Extra points for a world where gender or sexual identity can be just about anything and it's no big deal.
May 1, 2018
4.25 stars
Don't know why but I really like the title. And the book reminds me of Patience & Sarah
Don't know why but I really like the title. And the book reminds me of Patience & Sarah
October 1, 2020
I am always sorry to give such harsh review but there is no point in beating around the bush, I didn't like the book.
Aside from the absolutely unmemorable characters, the writing was extremely detailed, with pages and pages of absolutely unnecessary descriptions, while the dialogue remained bidimensional and the romance was predictable bordering to boring.
All topped with an improbable scene at the end involving...
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.
.
SPOILER
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.
.
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a sort of poker, the royalty, and a proletarian revolution mixed with jealousy...
Aside from the absolutely unmemorable characters, the writing was extremely detailed, with pages and pages of absolutely unnecessary descriptions, while the dialogue remained bidimensional and the romance was predictable bordering to boring.
All topped with an improbable scene at the end involving...
.
.
.
SPOILER
.
.
.
.
a sort of poker, the royalty, and a proletarian revolution mixed with jealousy...
December 6, 2017
I was pleasantly surprised by how much I enjoyed this historically magical novel. Elise and Nessa are both very different, yet relatable characters. Their journey into the wider world, and revolution of city life is captivating. Thank you Emma for bringing us the wonderful world of Achlid, Suger Pumpkins and all the other magical (and delicious) delacacies of this fictional world. I am very much looking forward to the further Tinderbox Tales you will bring us!
November 26, 2017
This was a beautifully written story. Our heroines were irresistible, and I also loved the entire cast of characters and the world. While I am so grateful this book did not end with a cliff-hanger, I am very much looking forward to the next book in the series.
October 13, 2017
Making a Tinderbox is a sweet romance set in a steampunk world. Both characters are enjoyable and relatable. I especially loved the growth Nessa accomplishes throughout the book, learning to face her fears and reach for her dreams. The book revels at times in the underbelly of the city, with a most charming guide in the form of Hunter Smith. I really like the depth this adds to the story. Whether you are a romance fan or a fantasy fan, you will enjoy the book.
March 17, 2018
The publicity blurb was much more exciting and interesting than the actual book. My initial impression of the book was the dialogue was quite stilted, the characters were two-dimensional and the whole plot to escape bordered on farce. I don’t know why they didn’t just walk around with a big sign saying I’m an escaped Princess.
I tried to keep going, but I wasn’t enjoying the book and I didn’t particularly like Elisandre and at times Nessa was so deferential and soppy, it was almost painful.
In the end I couldn’t finish the book, it’s a pity as the book sounded great.
I tried to keep going, but I wasn’t enjoying the book and I didn’t particularly like Elisandre and at times Nessa was so deferential and soppy, it was almost painful.
In the end I couldn’t finish the book, it’s a pity as the book sounded great.
March 3, 2018
My first book of 2018 and its a five 🌟 read!! What an enchanting world, with even more breathtaking and magical characters. I just love Elise and Nessa's progression, their friendship was strong from the beginning which only led to an amazing romance. I loved the pining and the jealousy that Elise was dealing with when she believed her love was unrequited. The friendships that the girls gained was sweet to me, I love supporting characters that aren't just flat. I absolutely wish that sugar pumpkins were real because I could just imagine how amazing and delightful the scent must be ♡ Such beautiful descriptions and a beautiful world. The angst between them was a little jarring I do have to say, just because it was a little harsh after they spent the night together.. but it was resolved so nicely and yes so realistically that it didn't bring down my enjoyment of Making A Tinderbox.
January 3, 2018
In the introduction, the author states that lesfic readers do not typically read fantasy. I can definitely say I am in the minority then. Good book. Lots of romance in this first book. Light on the fantasy part, but there is some nice world building. I am hoping for a little more adventure or intrigue in the second book.
October 15, 2017
So I offered to read this book as I had the time but I was a bit worried I wouldn't be able to give a good review since I am not a big fan of fantasy. Then I thought “well, you are a sucker for a good romance and you liked last Emma's book so why not?” So yes, why not. And boy, was I ever wrong. The book gets you hooked from the beginning. You get inmersed in the story, you are part of it. You hold your breath through their trip to Nightport, their relationship, their encounter with the queen. You hate the queen as much as they do.
So Lady Elisandrine is a Noble who wants to live her life freely and finds the perfect person for her adventure. Nessa is a farm girl who always found excuses to leave the nest and meet the world until she meets Lady Elisandrine. They both find the needed encouragement to fly away.
To me, the names of fictional places (it is true, Arclid does actually exist, I checked it in wikipedia) don't matter much since I am not English and I wouldn't recognize many of them even if they were real. What I mean is that the story is so good, so well written, the characters are so well developed that whether it happens in Arclid or any other continent doesn't change the fact that you enjoy the story from the beginning.
While reading, and even though I am not very familiar with the 1800s in England, I could see it and live it through the author's eyes. And while the story takes place in the past, there are some facts, ideas and situations that, apparently, are very today. People's open minds, the normality in some characters' genre or sexual orientation are something that we can find in our daily lives.
This is the second book I've read by this author and I think she has a brilliant future ahead.
Last thing I have to say is brilliant book!
I was given this ARC in return for an honest review.
So Lady Elisandrine is a Noble who wants to live her life freely and finds the perfect person for her adventure. Nessa is a farm girl who always found excuses to leave the nest and meet the world until she meets Lady Elisandrine. They both find the needed encouragement to fly away.
To me, the names of fictional places (it is true, Arclid does actually exist, I checked it in wikipedia) don't matter much since I am not English and I wouldn't recognize many of them even if they were real. What I mean is that the story is so good, so well written, the characters are so well developed that whether it happens in Arclid or any other continent doesn't change the fact that you enjoy the story from the beginning.
While reading, and even though I am not very familiar with the 1800s in England, I could see it and live it through the author's eyes. And while the story takes place in the past, there are some facts, ideas and situations that, apparently, are very today. People's open minds, the normality in some characters' genre or sexual orientation are something that we can find in our daily lives.
This is the second book I've read by this author and I think she has a brilliant future ahead.
Last thing I have to say is brilliant book!
I was given this ARC in return for an honest review.
April 6, 2021
Disappointing. Skimmed.
Half baked word. Fanfic-y in a bad way. Acording to blurb Arclid may appear similar to Great Britain at the beginning of the industrial revolution.So late 18th or mid 19th century? But it doesn't feel like it at all. It's just generic olden times.
Commoners are usually schooled from the age of eight till eighteen, yes?
Yes. You can study further but you have to travel to one of the cities to do so. And find a way to pay for your studies or a find a patron who will pay for you. Or a master to apprentice with
???!???0.o
What I really liked is that the author decided to write more accepting world when it comes to gender and sexuality that totally worked. Reminded me of Anhaga only that book was better written.
Half baked word. Fanfic-y in a bad way. Acording to blurb Arclid may appear similar to Great Britain at the beginning of the industrial revolution.So late 18th or mid 19th century? But it doesn't feel like it at all. It's just generic olden times.
Commoners are usually schooled from the age of eight till eighteen, yes?
Yes. You can study further but you have to travel to one of the cities to do so. And find a way to pay for your studies or a find a patron who will pay for you. Or a master to apprentice with
???!???0.o
What I really liked is that the author decided to write more accepting world when it comes to gender and sexuality that totally worked. Reminded me of Anhaga only that book was better written.
November 23, 2017
had some trouble getting into the story at first. Elise seemed too over the top for me to connect with and Nessa too dull for me to care about. But once they meet, the story really takes off and it didn't take long for the characters to become my friends.
Some folks may shy away from this book because of the "fantasy" label. But don't let that freak you out! It may be set in a different world, but that is more for the ability to introduce a new culture than for magic and beasts.
This story is all about the adventure, in life and love. And what an adventure Elise and Nessa had. When I finished the book I was sad it was over and I immediately hoped there would be more to this story, more adventures. Then I saw that this is only Book 1 in The Tinderbox Tales. And I cannot wait!
Some folks may shy away from this book because of the "fantasy" label. But don't let that freak you out! It may be set in a different world, but that is more for the ability to introduce a new culture than for magic and beasts.
This story is all about the adventure, in life and love. And what an adventure Elise and Nessa had. When I finished the book I was sad it was over and I immediately hoped there would be more to this story, more adventures. Then I saw that this is only Book 1 in The Tinderbox Tales. And I cannot wait!
October 8, 2017
Love the feel of this novel. Lots of adventure and laughs and boozy goodness. Just what I like. Not ashamed to say I have a crush on Elise either. Very fun read!
Oh! I love the cover, too. Can’t always say that so it’s worth a mention.
Oh! I love the cover, too. Can’t always say that so it’s worth a mention.
October 20, 2017
Another absolutely brilliant book by Emma! I couldn't Putnam it down. The adventures Elsie and Nessa go through and the growth both women go through is amazing and keeps you one your toes. Patiently waiting for the second installment (well maybe not so patiently LOL)
October 13, 2017
So many great things to say about this book.
I didn't want to put it down. I wanted to see where this adventure took these characters.
I loved seeing the two main characters grow and form a friendship, and then go to liking each other but both being scared the other does like them, and them finally getting together.
All the friendships that are formed. Hunter is a great character.
This book has adventure, comedy, romance and a little mystery.
Such a good read.
Can't wait to purchase my paperback copy for my personal library
Will definitely be recommending this book
I didn't want to put it down. I wanted to see where this adventure took these characters.
I loved seeing the two main characters grow and form a friendship, and then go to liking each other but both being scared the other does like them, and them finally getting together.
All the friendships that are formed. Hunter is a great character.
This book has adventure, comedy, romance and a little mystery.
Such a good read.
Can't wait to purchase my paperback copy for my personal library
Will definitely be recommending this book
October 20, 2017
Lovely book, this was my first time reading this authors work. I will definitely be checking out her other books. Fast paced and enjoyable characters.
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