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Iron Souls #1
Ferromancer
Solutions aren’t always black and white—sometimes they come in shades of iron gray.
Captain Bridget “Briar” Rose wants for nothing. Each day is a new adventure, living the life she loves, running cargo on the Ohio & Erie Canal. That is, until her cousin decides to sell the family boat to finance a new business venture. He wants to build locomotives for the railroad—the very industry that could put the entire canal system out of business.
Not one to give up without a fight, Briar does a little snooping into her cousin’s new business partner. When she gets a sneak peek at the locomotive plans, she suspects that the man is either a genius, or a ferromancer—one of the dreaded metal mages of Europe’s industrial revolution.
Determined to reveal her suspicions, Briar takes the plans and heads for the newspaper office in Columbus, stealing the family boat in the process. Kidnapping her cousin’s handsome business partner wasn’t part of the plan, but when he shows up, demanding the return of his property, she can’t let him go. After all, if Briar can prove that the railroad is using ferromancy, she could save more than her boat. She could save her way of life.
Captain Bridget “Briar” Rose wants for nothing. Each day is a new adventure, living the life she loves, running cargo on the Ohio & Erie Canal. That is, until her cousin decides to sell the family boat to finance a new business venture. He wants to build locomotives for the railroad—the very industry that could put the entire canal system out of business.
Not one to give up without a fight, Briar does a little snooping into her cousin’s new business partner. When she gets a sneak peek at the locomotive plans, she suspects that the man is either a genius, or a ferromancer—one of the dreaded metal mages of Europe’s industrial revolution.
Determined to reveal her suspicions, Briar takes the plans and heads for the newspaper office in Columbus, stealing the family boat in the process. Kidnapping her cousin’s handsome business partner wasn’t part of the plan, but when he shows up, demanding the return of his property, she can’t let him go. After all, if Briar can prove that the railroad is using ferromancy, she could save more than her boat. She could save her way of life.
245 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 1, 2017
95 people are currently reading
913 people want to read
About the author
Becca Andre
29 books242 followersBecca Andre lives in southern Ohio with her husband, two children, and an elderly Jack Russell Terrier. A love of science and math (yes, she’s weird like that), led to a career as a chemist where she blows things up far more infrequently than you’d expect. Other interests include: chocolate, hard rock, and slaying things on the Xbox. She also finds writing about herself in third person a bit strange.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 58 reviews
March 29, 2018
Becca Andre is a master story teller and delivers in this steampunk meets magic inspired story. I love Briar. I love Grayson. I love all the characters. I can't wait to keep reading more from Becca.
August 23, 2017
Another great new world! Andre has a very unique view toward fantasy/steampunk, and this new book is no exception. Magic meets mechanics in this great start in a new series set on the canals of Ohio in the 1800s. Add a spunky heroine, a mysterious man who might be her greatest enemy, and threats all around, and this adventure is hard to put down.
February 9, 2018
I received a free copy in exchange for an honest review.
I'm a recent fan of Becca Andre, having finished her Final Formula series a few weeks ago. I thoroughly enjoyed that series and was excited to learn of this new series and delve into the fantastic world that she can create. It did but disappoint at all.
Briar is the captain of a small crew that travels up and down the Ohio & Erie canals. She's trying to save her livelihood from the encroaching railroads that are being built throughout the country. While trying to figure out if the railroads are using Ferromancy, she kidnaps the man she thinks is responsible for it's expansion. She is soon thrust into the secretive and forbidden world of Ferromancers.
This book has a great cast of characters that are easy to relate to and a story that grabs your attention from the first encounter. It's also a wonderful blend of history and fantasy. I finished this book in one sitting because I couldn't put it down. There are some good twists in the storyline with action and lots of secrets. I highly recommend this book and can't wait until the next is available!
I'm a recent fan of Becca Andre, having finished her Final Formula series a few weeks ago. I thoroughly enjoyed that series and was excited to learn of this new series and delve into the fantastic world that she can create. It did but disappoint at all.
Briar is the captain of a small crew that travels up and down the Ohio & Erie canals. She's trying to save her livelihood from the encroaching railroads that are being built throughout the country. While trying to figure out if the railroads are using Ferromancy, she kidnaps the man she thinks is responsible for it's expansion. She is soon thrust into the secretive and forbidden world of Ferromancers.
This book has a great cast of characters that are easy to relate to and a story that grabs your attention from the first encounter. It's also a wonderful blend of history and fantasy. I finished this book in one sitting because I couldn't put it down. There are some good twists in the storyline with action and lots of secrets. I highly recommend this book and can't wait until the next is available!
August 17, 2017
I was lucky enough to receive a copy of Becca Andre's book Ferromancer to give an honest review on, I can honestly say the book was brilliant, I love her books and this one didn't disappoint. Really well written book. I love being able to chill out and enter the fantasy world of her imagination. The story itself flows really well, you are sucked in right to the end. The only problem was it got to a good bit then the book ended. Really looking forward to more.
September 1, 2017
This was a great adventure... hard to put down. The story setting was different than usual, set aboard a canal boat.. loved everything about this story. Characters were well developed and unique.. the writing was well done. I would love to read a book 2 whenever it comes out... highly recommend and I'm looking forward to reading some of her other stories
February 16, 2018
Excellent!
The author's writing has improved since the Final Formula series, which I enjoyed reading. This series has a more steampunk feel and some deliciously snarky humor.
The author's writing has improved since the Final Formula series, which I enjoyed reading. This series has a more steampunk feel and some deliciously snarky humor.
October 3, 2017
A brilliant story set in the canals of the Great Lakes when the steam and coal run railways threatened the livelihood of the cargo boats that plied the Ohio & Erie Canal. As always, Andre's characters are well rounded, a delight to read, their beliefs and motivations clear. Each of them unique and deftly woven into the story, their own backgrounds come into the forefront as the action mounts up. Masterfully turning the mundane into intrigue, magic, and murders.
Becca Andre has a style with snark and wit, coupled with fantastical danger in ordinary seeming places. Add a heart melting little dragon construct, with soulful eyes, discovered by accident while snooping for ways to undermine her rivals, and there's Steampunk fantasy aplenty. The story setting in the late 1800's is well done thru the characters point of view, with due homage to the ingenuity of canal and lock system which was the life's blood of the towns set along its banks. The protagonist, Briar, is a determined and scrappy young woman who defies the convention of society, dresses as a man, and runs a loyal crew. Drinking, fiddling, and an occasional brawl with low life competition is part and parcel for her and her loyal crew.
The story:
Bridget Rose has only wanted one thing her entire life, and that was to captain her boat in the company of her loyal crew. Nicknamed Briar after the boat itself, the Briar Rose, she defies convention to live the simple life she loves on the canals, ferrying cargo to and from the towns along the route. It's the only life she's known since the age of three. A simple life aboard the boat, with her crew and fiddle, is all she desires, but new locomotives and railways are a threat to her business and she would go to great lengths to see them hampered in any way.
Without warning, she is swept up into her cousin’s machinations to sell the boat and invest in the railroads. Though her beloved boat isn't hers yet. When her uncle died, the business was inherited by her cousin Andrew, who has been Briar's guardian and owner of her business and boat, since early childhood. Briar longs to earn enough to buy the cargo boat outright and make it her own.
When she stumbles across a new locomotive, the likes of which have never been seen, she quickly finds herself in over her head. As Andrew's plans to sell the business and have her married off to his new business partner are revealed, Briar decides to take a reckless course and steal the Briar Rose and the designs for the for new locomotive before her cousin can stop her. Briar gets more than she bargained for when Grayson turns up on her boat demanding return of the magnificent new locomotives plans. Briar can't let him go before she can prove that Ferromancy is powering the machine, and takes him hostage aboard the boat while she heads for Columbus.
There are more serious threats lurking than a handsome and perplexing valet for a ferromancer that can destroy her way of life. Briar finds herself on the run with a very unusual hostage. Both of them pursued by a dangerously powerful Ferromancer, her spiteful cousin, and the authorities as well.
A thoroughly enjoyable read, you will not want it to end. The action is constant and you will find you are eager to discover the truth of the magic behind the little dragon construct, the locomotive, and the much maligned and feared Ferromancers. True to form, with a bittersweet ending, Becca Andre gives us a fast paced and tense ending with more of the tale begging to be told. We will be waiting for it eagerly.
Becca Andre has a style with snark and wit, coupled with fantastical danger in ordinary seeming places. Add a heart melting little dragon construct, with soulful eyes, discovered by accident while snooping for ways to undermine her rivals, and there's Steampunk fantasy aplenty. The story setting in the late 1800's is well done thru the characters point of view, with due homage to the ingenuity of canal and lock system which was the life's blood of the towns set along its banks. The protagonist, Briar, is a determined and scrappy young woman who defies the convention of society, dresses as a man, and runs a loyal crew. Drinking, fiddling, and an occasional brawl with low life competition is part and parcel for her and her loyal crew.
The story:
Bridget Rose has only wanted one thing her entire life, and that was to captain her boat in the company of her loyal crew. Nicknamed Briar after the boat itself, the Briar Rose, she defies convention to live the simple life she loves on the canals, ferrying cargo to and from the towns along the route. It's the only life she's known since the age of three. A simple life aboard the boat, with her crew and fiddle, is all she desires, but new locomotives and railways are a threat to her business and she would go to great lengths to see them hampered in any way.
Without warning, she is swept up into her cousin’s machinations to sell the boat and invest in the railroads. Though her beloved boat isn't hers yet. When her uncle died, the business was inherited by her cousin Andrew, who has been Briar's guardian and owner of her business and boat, since early childhood. Briar longs to earn enough to buy the cargo boat outright and make it her own.
When she stumbles across a new locomotive, the likes of which have never been seen, she quickly finds herself in over her head. As Andrew's plans to sell the business and have her married off to his new business partner are revealed, Briar decides to take a reckless course and steal the Briar Rose and the designs for the for new locomotive before her cousin can stop her. Briar gets more than she bargained for when Grayson turns up on her boat demanding return of the magnificent new locomotives plans. Briar can't let him go before she can prove that Ferromancy is powering the machine, and takes him hostage aboard the boat while she heads for Columbus.
There are more serious threats lurking than a handsome and perplexing valet for a ferromancer that can destroy her way of life. Briar finds herself on the run with a very unusual hostage. Both of them pursued by a dangerously powerful Ferromancer, her spiteful cousin, and the authorities as well.
A thoroughly enjoyable read, you will not want it to end. The action is constant and you will find you are eager to discover the truth of the magic behind the little dragon construct, the locomotive, and the much maligned and feared Ferromancers. True to form, with a bittersweet ending, Becca Andre gives us a fast paced and tense ending with more of the tale begging to be told. We will be waiting for it eagerly.
October 22, 2017
Definite recommendation! I absolutely LOVED it and it takes place in my home state!
Meet Briar Rose. Captaining canal boats has always been in her blood since she was little. She's also very curious and adventurous. Lately she's been concerned that her way of life might be taken over because locomotives and railroads have become increasingly popular over canal boats. One night, she decides to go "explore" these locomotives when she witnesses a murder. Shortly after, she finds out that her uncle is looking to sell her beloved canal boat. She decides that this can't happen and ends up kidnapping the engineer her uncle was looking to establish a business relationship with over a new locomotive. However, everything is not as it seems and she ends up getting a crash course in all things ferromancy and the soulless.
Fantasy, steampunk, mystery and adventure are just a few of the reading elements you'll find in this book. The characters are written so well. My favorite character, Lock, is a construct that Briar took an instant liking too and was the reason she dove deeper into the ferromancy world. You can easily relate to Briar in that she's trying to find her place in a man's world but also trying to handle her own issues. She often finds herself in situations that potentially threaten her livelihood and her life. The relationship she has with her crew members often goes misunderstood even though each and every one are loyal to her even when she tries to shield them from the real world. Another unique trait about the characters is that you can't really define who's the hero or who's the villian. At times, I found myself questioning who the "enemy" truly was including Briar herself.
By the end of the story, you will definitely want so much more! There is so much more to look forward to with Briar, her crew, as well as a few other characters. You must give this story a try. You won't regret it. I promise!
Meet Briar Rose. Captaining canal boats has always been in her blood since she was little. She's also very curious and adventurous. Lately she's been concerned that her way of life might be taken over because locomotives and railroads have become increasingly popular over canal boats. One night, she decides to go "explore" these locomotives when she witnesses a murder. Shortly after, she finds out that her uncle is looking to sell her beloved canal boat. She decides that this can't happen and ends up kidnapping the engineer her uncle was looking to establish a business relationship with over a new locomotive. However, everything is not as it seems and she ends up getting a crash course in all things ferromancy and the soulless.
Fantasy, steampunk, mystery and adventure are just a few of the reading elements you'll find in this book. The characters are written so well. My favorite character, Lock, is a construct that Briar took an instant liking too and was the reason she dove deeper into the ferromancy world. You can easily relate to Briar in that she's trying to find her place in a man's world but also trying to handle her own issues. She often finds herself in situations that potentially threaten her livelihood and her life. The relationship she has with her crew members often goes misunderstood even though each and every one are loyal to her even when she tries to shield them from the real world. Another unique trait about the characters is that you can't really define who's the hero or who's the villian. At times, I found myself questioning who the "enemy" truly was including Briar herself.
By the end of the story, you will definitely want so much more! There is so much more to look forward to with Briar, her crew, as well as a few other characters. You must give this story a try. You won't regret it. I promise!
March 20, 2018
I’m going to break this into three parts, the world building, the characters, and the story. First the world, I really liked it, steampunk for me can be confusing and I don’t like it sometimes, in fact I don’t even know if I would consider this steampunk probably more of a fantasy to be honest. I understood the concept, liked the world and started to follow along pretty quickly. Check.
The characters. I didn’t like Briar, though she did get better, I dislike lead characters who can break any rules and are almost shocked when they have to face consequences. I also didn’t like the way she treated Grayson for most of the beginning of the book, without and real proof that she should. She stole from him and when he came to get his property she kidnapped him, blaming him! I had a hard time forgiving her, no I never did forgive her. She continued to do as she pleased even to the detriment of others. Now the other characters I liked and really helped me enjoy the book.
The story. Without giving too much away I found it interesting. I found the end fell a little flat for me but I found the flow wasn’t too fast or slow and I stayed entertained.
The characters. I didn’t like Briar, though she did get better, I dislike lead characters who can break any rules and are almost shocked when they have to face consequences. I also didn’t like the way she treated Grayson for most of the beginning of the book, without and real proof that she should. She stole from him and when he came to get his property she kidnapped him, blaming him! I had a hard time forgiving her, no I never did forgive her. She continued to do as she pleased even to the detriment of others. Now the other characters I liked and really helped me enjoy the book.
The story. Without giving too much away I found it interesting. I found the end fell a little flat for me but I found the flow wasn’t too fast or slow and I stayed entertained.
December 27, 2019
Briar is a young entrepreneur working as a Captain of a shipping boat on the Ohio and Erie canals. Then she learns that her cousin plans to sell the family business to the rail industry. Unable to give up on her dreams so easily, Briar snoops on the railroad, and discovers that the designer might be a ferromancer, someone who practices a dangerous magical art. Needing to investigate further, Briar jumps on her boat and heads down the canal, accidentally kidnapping the handsome Grayson in the process.
I don’t read as much steampunk as I once did and Ferromancer makes me want to reconsider that. I highly enjoyed this fun mix of history and fantasy elements. Briar is a great heroine, headstrong and perhaps not as wary of danger as she should be, and I appreciated the relationship that began to form between her and Grayson. But my favorite part of the book had to be Lock, a tiny metallic dragon that ended up being far more versatile that I expected.
The book does go off the rails (pun not intended) a bit near the end, but it certainly raises a lot of interesting questions for book two. This is a series that I plan on continuing ASAP.
I don’t read as much steampunk as I once did and Ferromancer makes me want to reconsider that. I highly enjoyed this fun mix of history and fantasy elements. Briar is a great heroine, headstrong and perhaps not as wary of danger as she should be, and I appreciated the relationship that began to form between her and Grayson. But my favorite part of the book had to be Lock, a tiny metallic dragon that ended up being far more versatile that I expected.
The book does go off the rails (pun not intended) a bit near the end, but it certainly raises a lot of interesting questions for book two. This is a series that I plan on continuing ASAP.
March 14, 2018
Ah, satisfying
The historical setting of early 1800s America, coupled with the mythos of the magical ferromancers, is somehow massively pleasing. I enjoyed this stroll along the Erie Canal, seeing the conflict between the boatmen and the up and coming railroads. At the same time, the ferromancers are understated, intriguing, and often terrifying.
I'm not sure, even now, if I like Grayson or not. At least he's not like some of the psycho, abusive heroes urban fantasy often features. I think it's the potential of what he will become, down the line, that worries me. But then, saving him from himself is the aim of the story, isn't it?
I'm off to check out book 2, as well as this author's other books.
The historical setting of early 1800s America, coupled with the mythos of the magical ferromancers, is somehow massively pleasing. I enjoyed this stroll along the Erie Canal, seeing the conflict between the boatmen and the up and coming railroads. At the same time, the ferromancers are understated, intriguing, and often terrifying.
I'm not sure, even now, if I like Grayson or not. At least he's not like some of the psycho, abusive heroes urban fantasy often features. I think it's the potential of what he will become, down the line, that worries me. But then, saving him from himself is the aim of the story, isn't it?
I'm off to check out book 2, as well as this author's other books.
February 10, 2018
Trust Becca Andre to always find something different for her books. The Final Formula characters were not your average alchemist or elementals and this new series is not like the previous, it is something new and this first book introduces us to this new form of magic, ferromancy. The idea is really interesting and like before, the main character is a woman, again a strong one. The series setting is different as well, along the canals and lakes.
The plot is strong and the characters very attaching (I love Lock!), I loved it. Looking forward to the next one!
The plot is strong and the characters very attaching (I love Lock!), I loved it. Looking forward to the next one!
September 3, 2017
I love Becca Andre's books and this is a great start to a new series. After the first few chapters I was totally hooked; I really enjoyed getting to know the characters, and the pace kept me wanting to keep on reading to find out what was coming next. Looking forward to the continuation of this story.
September 13, 2017
love this world. I look forward to reading more
October 31, 2017
Wasn't sure about this one but after reading it I can say whole heartedly that this will be as great a series as the Final Formula Series! Grab your copy today!
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August 15, 2019A good book overall. The author's writing style does very well at keeping me interested. The tension level is perfect, never too much melodrama but always something to keep you on edge. As with most indie books, there were a few typos but not enough for me to find annoying. The length of the story felt about right. The general feel did not come off as much "steampunk" as I expected. Although it takes place in what seems like an early steam-era America it feels more like an alternate historical fantasy story than it does steampunk. Not a problem for me, I like both genres.
The worldbuilding is acceptable but not exceptional. Some stories just don't have room for history lessons and tedious explanations, so we don't really find out as much about the world as I would have liked. What we do see of it though, is interesting and unique. Generally a steam-tech world, but adding in ferromancy. A kind of techno-magery that is reviled by the rest of society. The main character captains a river boat (steamboat? It's never specified but probably not) making trade runs and in direct competition with the encroaching railroad. There's just enough explanation of the workings of canals and boats to make it feel that some research has been done, and the magic of ferromancy feels coherent as a system although both could stand to be explored a little better.
The characters are not very sympathetic or loveable (other than the cute little shapeshifting construct she names "Lock"). They seem nice but have questionable morality, the heroes being not much better than the villains. The characterization in general was OK, but not great. The different characters had different personalities and didn't feel like cardboard cutouts. So that's a good thing. But they also didn't feel like complete people either. It would take a lot of time to examine what makes a character feel complete, and perhaps I'm not knowledgeable enough to write that book anyway, but here I'll just say that it didn't feel like enough.
The ending was slightly disappointing. Technically, the main plot does resolve, but the author then chooses to add more. I guess it's common enough to add a 'hook' that drags you in to the next book. It's not a cliffhanger exactly, the Big Bad is all tied up and done for, and it's a new thing that complicates life and so another journey begins. When this is done as an Afterword, or in a preview of the next book, then I don't mind it. But here it wasn't even given a new chapter. When the 'hook' is seamlessly woven into the wrapping up like this then I feel cheated out of the satisfaction of an ending that a book should normally have.
On the whole, this review has dealt more with the negative than the positive. The book is such that when you analyze the details the flaws become most apparent. And the flaws are considerable. But the good of it is in the reading itself. In the moment, when you suspend disbelief and immerse yourself in the author's world, the critical analysis becomes less important and it's more about how it _feels_. And in spite of the issues this one still feels good. I don't regret having spent the time on it. I may even read it again some day. So if you can get past the individual flaws… if you're the sort of reader who doesn't need to critique, who can simply read and enjoy the moment, then I can recommend this book to you. In spite of it's many flaws it still reads well.
The worldbuilding is acceptable but not exceptional. Some stories just don't have room for history lessons and tedious explanations, so we don't really find out as much about the world as I would have liked. What we do see of it though, is interesting and unique. Generally a steam-tech world, but adding in ferromancy. A kind of techno-magery that is reviled by the rest of society. The main character captains a river boat (steamboat? It's never specified but probably not) making trade runs and in direct competition with the encroaching railroad. There's just enough explanation of the workings of canals and boats to make it feel that some research has been done, and the magic of ferromancy feels coherent as a system although both could stand to be explored a little better.
The characters are not very sympathetic or loveable (other than the cute little shapeshifting construct she names "Lock"). They seem nice but have questionable morality, the heroes being not much better than the villains. The characterization in general was OK, but not great. The different characters had different personalities and didn't feel like cardboard cutouts. So that's a good thing. But they also didn't feel like complete people either. It would take a lot of time to examine what makes a character feel complete, and perhaps I'm not knowledgeable enough to write that book anyway, but here I'll just say that it didn't feel like enough.
The ending was slightly disappointing. Technically, the main plot does resolve, but the author then chooses to add more. I guess it's common enough to add a 'hook' that drags you in to the next book. It's not a cliffhanger exactly, the Big Bad is all tied up and done for, and it's a new thing that complicates life and so another journey begins. When this is done as an Afterword, or in a preview of the next book, then I don't mind it. But here it wasn't even given a new chapter. When the 'hook' is seamlessly woven into the wrapping up like this then I feel cheated out of the satisfaction of an ending that a book should normally have.
On the whole, this review has dealt more with the negative than the positive. The book is such that when you analyze the details the flaws become most apparent. And the flaws are considerable. But the good of it is in the reading itself. In the moment, when you suspend disbelief and immerse yourself in the author's world, the critical analysis becomes less important and it's more about how it _feels_. And in spite of the issues this one still feels good. I don't regret having spent the time on it. I may even read it again some day. So if you can get past the individual flaws… if you're the sort of reader who doesn't need to critique, who can simply read and enjoy the moment, then I can recommend this book to you. In spite of it's many flaws it still reads well.
January 25, 2019
I originally read this in the Dominion Rising collection, but I'm admittedly a big Becca Andre fan and can't wait for the rest of the series!
Ferromancer is set in America, during the expansion of the railroad. Briar is the captain of her cousin's canal boat, and this adventure begins as she "invites" a... let's call him a passenger... aboard. This is one of those stories where it's hard to say enough without giving too much away. The beginning might seem a little slow, but that could also be because I was interrupted constantly by two adorable children. I know once I finally sat down at night to read I really got into it. The story builds up well and I enjoyed being surprised when the plot twists I thought I saw coming turned into something completely different. My take on it is that ferromancers are a bit like a magical Dr Frankenstein, replacing bits of the body with metal and creating a soulless follower. There is magic, fantasy, and a scene-stealing, utterly adorable dragon. I imagine he and Bubo would be thick as thieves.
Ferromancer is set in America, during the expansion of the railroad. Briar is the captain of her cousin's canal boat, and this adventure begins as she "invites" a... let's call him a passenger... aboard. This is one of those stories where it's hard to say enough without giving too much away. The beginning might seem a little slow, but that could also be because I was interrupted constantly by two adorable children. I know once I finally sat down at night to read I really got into it. The story builds up well and I enjoyed being surprised when the plot twists I thought I saw coming turned into something completely different. My take on it is that ferromancers are a bit like a magical Dr Frankenstein, replacing bits of the body with metal and creating a soulless follower. There is magic, fantasy, and a scene-stealing, utterly adorable dragon. I imagine he and Bubo would be thick as thieves.
May 22, 2021
I am not 100% certain why I picked up this book. I guess it kind of sounded interesting. I have been told many times that technomancy and steampunk were right up my alley, so I built up a stack to read.
I was very surprised by how much I liked this. It was not brainless waif who needed rescue. Briar is a delight - a strong woman who goes out and gets the information she needs. She stands up for herself. She allows the men around her to have their own places, their own beliefs and their own abilities. She is no superwoman, but she is also not the must be rescued princess. An imperfect, believable woman. And she owns up to her mistakes. I really like her.
The story has a lot of quirks, but I expected that. Magic in stories with technology causes that. But at the end, everything made sense. There is a lot of history that the reader does not yet know, but the tale, as a whole, is fascinating. It is definitely well worth the read.
I was very surprised by how much I liked this. It was not brainless waif who needed rescue. Briar is a delight - a strong woman who goes out and gets the information she needs. She stands up for herself. She allows the men around her to have their own places, their own beliefs and their own abilities. She is no superwoman, but she is also not the must be rescued princess. An imperfect, believable woman. And she owns up to her mistakes. I really like her.
The story has a lot of quirks, but I expected that. Magic in stories with technology causes that. But at the end, everything made sense. There is a lot of history that the reader does not yet know, but the tale, as a whole, is fascinating. It is definitely well worth the read.
July 5, 2018
I heard the author interviewed for SFFMP episode 186, and while Historical Fiction isn't a genre I read a lot, I thought the premise was interesting enough to give it a try. I'm glad I did. The characters are unique and compelling and get more nuanced as the series progresses. (I'm currently in book 3 and circled back to write this review).
The climax of this installment of the story ends rather abruptly and in such a head-scratching manner that I had to reread it to see if I missed anything. At the time, events didn't make sense to me, but the author finally explains them in book three. I know most readers want their answers and payoffs to initial setups to play out much more efficiently so this might be a turn-off, but I urge you to give this series a try and see if you can handle it. I was often annoyed at the lack of information. We could avoid much of the confusion with a five-minute conversation or a quick explanation. I realize that much of it has to do with back-story elements but the ferromancer-ferra relationships are a central component of events. At times I had trouble understanding motivations, and it made Grayson seem more like a plot device than a person. I realize the author was trying to avoid an info-dump and to hint at or tease things out, but in this first book, those attempts often feel heavy-handed and overly contrived. She gets much better at dealing with this as the series progresses and though it might cause readers to abandon the first book, if you can stick it out, I think it improves as the story progresses throughout the series.
The climax of this installment of the story ends rather abruptly and in such a head-scratching manner that I had to reread it to see if I missed anything. At the time, events didn't make sense to me, but the author finally explains them in book three. I know most readers want their answers and payoffs to initial setups to play out much more efficiently so this might be a turn-off, but I urge you to give this series a try and see if you can handle it. I was often annoyed at the lack of information. We could avoid much of the confusion with a five-minute conversation or a quick explanation. I realize that much of it has to do with back-story elements but the ferromancer-ferra relationships are a central component of events. At times I had trouble understanding motivations, and it made Grayson seem more like a plot device than a person. I realize the author was trying to avoid an info-dump and to hint at or tease things out, but in this first book, those attempts often feel heavy-handed and overly contrived. She gets much better at dealing with this as the series progresses and though it might cause readers to abandon the first book, if you can stick it out, I think it improves as the story progresses throughout the series.
October 6, 2020
Briar is a gutsy, impulsive captain, who is used to managing a rowdy cargo boat team. She is not above getting her own justice through sneaky tactics and plans on using those tactics to prove the use of Ferromancy. She ends up with the enemy on her boat and needs to keep it moving to prevent her cousin from selling it while she comes up with a new plan.
The characters are fun and full of life. The action exciting, unique in a setting I have not seen in a fantasy book before. The interwoven magical elements of the industrialization of the US were unique and I look forward to reading more in her series.
I could feel what it was like to live on the boat and run the river. Already being on another cargo river run, it inspired me to research the boating life and changes of the Rhine River.
The characters are fun and full of life. The action exciting, unique in a setting I have not seen in a fantasy book before. The interwoven magical elements of the industrialization of the US were unique and I look forward to reading more in her series.
I could feel what it was like to live on the boat and run the river. Already being on another cargo river run, it inspired me to research the boating life and changes of the Rhine River.
March 24, 2018
Some books are candy for the soul, and this is a great example. I started reading it Friday afternoon and didn't put it down until I was done.
Part of my enjoyment was due to the fact that the book is set in my new stomping grounds --- I was literally riding in a car over the Scioto river when I learned that's where the heroine's barge was floating. (Well, she was in the canal beside the river, but whatever.) But, mostly, this was just the perfect combination of history, magic, and adventure, with a tough but kind heroine and a struggle we can all identify with (not wanting our world to change).
I'm already heartbroken to learn there's only one more book in the series! :-( (So far. Maybe another is on its way.)
Part of my enjoyment was due to the fact that the book is set in my new stomping grounds --- I was literally riding in a car over the Scioto river when I learned that's where the heroine's barge was floating. (Well, she was in the canal beside the river, but whatever.) But, mostly, this was just the perfect combination of history, magic, and adventure, with a tough but kind heroine and a struggle we can all identify with (not wanting our world to change).
I'm already heartbroken to learn there's only one more book in the series! :-( (So far. Maybe another is on its way.)
August 30, 2019
Such a great read!
I enjoyed this book so much! I had a hard time putting it down!! I spent many, many summers hanging out at Lock 2 of the Erie Canal. And the city where I am from has remnants of the original Erie Canal. That was the first thing that caught my interest in the book! The characters are so likeable! And little Lock...he was my favorite! I am hoping to read the other books in this series very soon!
If you're a fan of Steampunk, magic, stories set in a different time or just a good fantasy adventure then I am sure you will LOVE this book! 😊💙📖📗
I enjoyed this book so much! I had a hard time putting it down!! I spent many, many summers hanging out at Lock 2 of the Erie Canal. And the city where I am from has remnants of the original Erie Canal. That was the first thing that caught my interest in the book! The characters are so likeable! And little Lock...he was my favorite! I am hoping to read the other books in this series very soon!
If you're a fan of Steampunk, magic, stories set in a different time or just a good fantasy adventure then I am sure you will LOVE this book! 😊💙📖📗
September 21, 2017
(Read in the collection Dominion Rising
This was such a great read! Only wish it had been longer or that the 2nd book was out already! Really enjoyed the fast pace of the story along with the mystery of who/what Greyson really was and the slow pace of the romance developing. The love and respect that Briar and her crew have for each other feels so real. Seriously love all of the characters in this book and can't wait to learn what's in store for them next.
This was such a great read! Only wish it had been longer or that the 2nd book was out already! Really enjoyed the fast pace of the story along with the mystery of who/what Greyson really was and the slow pace of the romance developing. The love and respect that Briar and her crew have for each other feels so real. Seriously love all of the characters in this book and can't wait to learn what's in store for them next.
February 21, 2018
Never been on a canal boat?
Same for me. Becca Andre teaches you respect this hardworking carrier and the crew all the while trying to stop or somehow slow the impact of the carrier kid in town - a speedy and capable new type of locomotive. Magic might be the power...; Ah, no spoilers!
Thanks to Kindle Unlimited, my next step is reading Book Two!
Thanks, Lindsay Buroker, for the referral.
Same for me. Becca Andre teaches you respect this hardworking carrier and the crew all the while trying to stop or somehow slow the impact of the carrier kid in town - a speedy and capable new type of locomotive. Magic might be the power...; Ah, no spoilers!
Thanks to Kindle Unlimited, my next step is reading Book Two!
Thanks, Lindsay Buroker, for the referral.
May 22, 2020
Very Different Era Steampunk
Well, Steampunk without steam, that is. Very early part of the 19th century and set in Ohio utilizing the Ohio and Erie canal system at the start of the railroad era. As I'm from. Dayton on the western canal route, the Miami and Erie canal, it was close to what I was vaguely familiar with history wise, but I confess it was that I fell hard for both Lock, the little mechanical Dragon and Grayson, it's creator that kept me enchanted.
Well, Steampunk without steam, that is. Very early part of the 19th century and set in Ohio utilizing the Ohio and Erie canal system at the start of the railroad era. As I'm from. Dayton on the western canal route, the Miami and Erie canal, it was close to what I was vaguely familiar with history wise, but I confess it was that I fell hard for both Lock, the little mechanical Dragon and Grayson, it's creator that kept me enchanted.
September 12, 2020
Intrigued
This was well written. The action continued in a forward direction and while the characters engaged in some soul searching there was not the pitiful waffling and whining that too often is found in stories these days. The female lead was sufficiently self-actualized without being unable to allow others to help. The mystery of the magical race was divulged just enough to keep me interested. All in all, it was a pleasant read.
This was well written. The action continued in a forward direction and while the characters engaged in some soul searching there was not the pitiful waffling and whining that too often is found in stories these days. The female lead was sufficiently self-actualized without being unable to allow others to help. The mystery of the magical race was divulged just enough to keep me interested. All in all, it was a pleasant read.
December 21, 2022
My friend sent this book to me as a little pick me up. I was hesitant to read it because I juat wasn't sure I'd be into it. It took me a while to get through because it's a little more slow paced and light hearted than what I'm use to reading, so it became my "at work" read. But it was a cute story. Giving it a 3 out of 5 because while it was a good story, I'm just not sure if I'm going to continue reading the series
May 29, 2018
#SpoilerWarrior
I initially had a hard time getting into this book because all of the lingo was so different for me, but I love Briar. She’s all hard and independent and crass but has this beautiful heart.
I’m over Eli already. He’s obviously harboring the world’s largest crush and needs to get over himself.
Lock is my favorite.
I’m so excited to see where this series goes.
I initially had a hard time getting into this book because all of the lingo was so different for me, but I love Briar. She’s all hard and independent and crass but has this beautiful heart.
I’m over Eli already. He’s obviously harboring the world’s largest crush and needs to get over himself.
Lock is my favorite.
I’m so excited to see where this series goes.
September 2, 2020
This one was a surprise
I started reading this and thought I had some period piece. Not my usual genre. I considered not reading it, then the little lock turned into a miniature dragon. Well, from that point on I had to finish it. Very interesting magic, I think I will enjoy this series.
I started reading this and thought I had some period piece. Not my usual genre. I considered not reading it, then the little lock turned into a miniature dragon. Well, from that point on I had to finish it. Very interesting magic, I think I will enjoy this series.
August 23, 2023
3.5 stars.
Pros:
A quick and enjoyable story, decent writing, mostly likable characters. The dragon was cute.
Cons:
Some girl-on-girl hate, name calling, and slut shaming. The MC was more or less the only female character, certainly the only admirable one. Doesn’t pass the Bechdel test. Could’ve been less prudish as well.
Pros:
A quick and enjoyable story, decent writing, mostly likable characters. The dragon was cute.
Cons:
Some girl-on-girl hate, name calling, and slut shaming. The MC was more or less the only female character, certainly the only admirable one. Doesn’t pass the Bechdel test. Could’ve been less prudish as well.
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