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Gears, Cogs, and Puppy Dogs #1
Vesta's Clockwork Companions
When Vesta Bartlett, a wealthy alchemist and inventor, arrives in England to finalize an arranged marriage and help overhaul a family friend's outdated ironworks, she never expects to find the family so secretive, nor to develop feelings for her fiancé’s younger brother, Henry.
But the growing attraction between Vesta and Henry is just the beginning of their troubles. Things really heat up when they're drawn into a secret project for Queen Victoria's military, one that requires Vesta's knowledge of clockwork and Henry’s iron.
An epidemic has wiped out all the dogs in Britain, and beyond. If the military fail in their effort to restore the species, a clockwork creation may be all that stands in the way of a world without canine companionship.
Are Vesta and Henry up to the challenge?
But the growing attraction between Vesta and Henry is just the beginning of their troubles. Things really heat up when they're drawn into a secret project for Queen Victoria's military, one that requires Vesta's knowledge of clockwork and Henry’s iron.
An epidemic has wiped out all the dogs in Britain, and beyond. If the military fail in their effort to restore the species, a clockwork creation may be all that stands in the way of a world without canine companionship.
Are Vesta and Henry up to the challenge?
337 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 20, 2018
4 people are currently reading
10 people want to read
About the author
Juli D. Revezzo
40 books94 followersJuli D. Revezzo writes fantasy and romantic stories filled in with elements garnered from a lifetime love affair with magic, myth, witches, wizards, and fated lovers and legend. She is the author of The Antique Magic series and the Paranormal Romance Celtic Stewards Chronicles series, steampunk historical romance WATCHMAKER'S HEART, and short stories published in ETERNAL HAUNTED SUMMER, LUNA STATION QUARTERLY, among others. She is also a member of the Independent Author Network and the Magic Appreciation Tour. To learn more about this and future releases, visit her at: www.julidrevezzo.com
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Displaying 1 - 11 of 11 reviews
August 16, 2018
My Rating: 4.5 Stars!
Steampunk, the attitude, the atmosphere and the inventions! Toss in some alchemy and the sky is the limit, as Juli D. Revezzo’s plucky heroine, Vesta Bartlett will prove! VESTA’S CLOCKWORK COMPANIONS is the story of one young woman who came to England for an arranged marriage, discovered she would prefer the younger brother and becomes part of a secret project for the Queen’s army. All of the dogs were wiped out in a horrendous epidemic and the military’s attempts to revive man’s best friend may prove futile, meaning Vesta and Henry could be the last chance to create a lifelike clockwork pooch for Her Majesty and her subjects.
In a world where creativity and thinking outside of the box of the known, poor Vesta and Henry’s love and intentions are giving vapors to their families, because, after all she was promised to Henry’s brother. But these two are clearly meant for each other, and with Vesta’s feisty and independent streak, be assured she has no intention of falling meekly into place at the altar with the wrong brother.
A fun read with that steampunk feel, humorous moments, entertaining dialogue and the mystery of alchemy, this rapid-fire read is pure entertainment filled with twists, turns, secrets and surprises page after page!
I received a complimentary copy from Juli D. Revezzo!
Publisher: Raven Queen Publications (July 20, 2018)
Publication Date: July 20, 2018
Genre: Steampunk Romance
Print Length: 337 pages
Available from: Amazon
For Reviews, Giveaways, Fabulous Book News, follow: http://tometender.blogspot.com
Steampunk, the attitude, the atmosphere and the inventions! Toss in some alchemy and the sky is the limit, as Juli D. Revezzo’s plucky heroine, Vesta Bartlett will prove! VESTA’S CLOCKWORK COMPANIONS is the story of one young woman who came to England for an arranged marriage, discovered she would prefer the younger brother and becomes part of a secret project for the Queen’s army. All of the dogs were wiped out in a horrendous epidemic and the military’s attempts to revive man’s best friend may prove futile, meaning Vesta and Henry could be the last chance to create a lifelike clockwork pooch for Her Majesty and her subjects.
In a world where creativity and thinking outside of the box of the known, poor Vesta and Henry’s love and intentions are giving vapors to their families, because, after all she was promised to Henry’s brother. But these two are clearly meant for each other, and with Vesta’s feisty and independent streak, be assured she has no intention of falling meekly into place at the altar with the wrong brother.
A fun read with that steampunk feel, humorous moments, entertaining dialogue and the mystery of alchemy, this rapid-fire read is pure entertainment filled with twists, turns, secrets and surprises page after page!
I received a complimentary copy from Juli D. Revezzo!
Publisher: Raven Queen Publications (July 20, 2018)
Publication Date: July 20, 2018
Genre: Steampunk Romance
Print Length: 337 pages
Available from: Amazon
For Reviews, Giveaways, Fabulous Book News, follow: http://tometender.blogspot.com
October 9, 2018
Vesta is a young women, trained by her father in metallurgy and alchemy. She needs more practice to develop her skills, but thanks to her very talented father, Vesta is on her way to becoming one of the best. She is not only skilled, but also quite inventive. Vesta creates clockwork pieces. She is also curious, compassionate and highly intelligent. Everything you want in a heroine.
Henry is the younger son of the Colchester family. It is obvious he has a thing for Vesta from the beginning, but she is betrothed to his older brother Percy. Henry is smart, book smart and street smart, and is the only one in the family that can make sense of the family business. Henry and Vesta share the traits of both common sense and a sense of adventure. They get along just fine if you know what I mean!
I would have liked more background on Vesta’s father, Jonathon Bartlett. There were quite a few hints about his past, but the details were not really filled in. And I think he is potentially a cool character, since he is such a talented alchemist and all round good father.
I would also like more background on the relationship between the two families – the Colchesters and the Bartletts. Yes, they knew each other before, but again, the details are vague. The Bartletts are from America and the Colchesters reside in England. More history would really add to the character development. Exactly how did Vesta and Percy come to be betrothed? It is obvious the two are not suited for each other. Considering the American culture, it does not make sense that Vesta would be forced to marry someone she not at all suited for. (Thank heavens, they all come to the same realization by the end of the book.)
Henry’s friend Acton is an interesting figure. He seems a bit of a gangster, but maybe that is a role he plays. He also seems a bit of a bleeding heart. So what, exactly, is he? Like I said, interesting. It is Acton that leads Henry and Vesta into their clockwork adventure with the upper echelon of England.
It took quite a while to get to the actual “clockwork companions” part of the story. You may call it build up. I’m not sure it was all necessary. There was a whole secondary plot line in addition to Vesta’s clockwork creations. The story of the Colchesters and their ironworks and the story of Vesta’s clockwork creations do overlap a bit, but the connections existed pretty much due to Henry. That is, he is in the Colchester family and he is involved in the clockwork aspect of the story.
The cover image for this book shows a man with a mechanical arm. Vesta is not the arm creator, nor is the man with the metal arm Vesta’s love interest Henry. The man is an incidental minor character. So the cover is a bit deceptive. Still, it is a cool cover.
I don’t know if a series is intended. Vesta’s Clockwork Companions is a standalone novel. But there is potential for more, since there is a dramatic scene near the end. There is plenty of room for character growth and there may be some conflict coming from the Queen of England. So….. I’d like to see more of Vesta and Henry and the fate of the clockwork companions.
Family matters, steampunk, national security and romance make up the tale of Vesta’s Clockwork Companions. I found this book to be sometime humorous, always engaging and entirely entertaining.
The author provided a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
Henry is the younger son of the Colchester family. It is obvious he has a thing for Vesta from the beginning, but she is betrothed to his older brother Percy. Henry is smart, book smart and street smart, and is the only one in the family that can make sense of the family business. Henry and Vesta share the traits of both common sense and a sense of adventure. They get along just fine if you know what I mean!
I would have liked more background on Vesta’s father, Jonathon Bartlett. There were quite a few hints about his past, but the details were not really filled in. And I think he is potentially a cool character, since he is such a talented alchemist and all round good father.
I would also like more background on the relationship between the two families – the Colchesters and the Bartletts. Yes, they knew each other before, but again, the details are vague. The Bartletts are from America and the Colchesters reside in England. More history would really add to the character development. Exactly how did Vesta and Percy come to be betrothed? It is obvious the two are not suited for each other. Considering the American culture, it does not make sense that Vesta would be forced to marry someone she not at all suited for. (Thank heavens, they all come to the same realization by the end of the book.)
Henry’s friend Acton is an interesting figure. He seems a bit of a gangster, but maybe that is a role he plays. He also seems a bit of a bleeding heart. So what, exactly, is he? Like I said, interesting. It is Acton that leads Henry and Vesta into their clockwork adventure with the upper echelon of England.
It took quite a while to get to the actual “clockwork companions” part of the story. You may call it build up. I’m not sure it was all necessary. There was a whole secondary plot line in addition to Vesta’s clockwork creations. The story of the Colchesters and their ironworks and the story of Vesta’s clockwork creations do overlap a bit, but the connections existed pretty much due to Henry. That is, he is in the Colchester family and he is involved in the clockwork aspect of the story.
The cover image for this book shows a man with a mechanical arm. Vesta is not the arm creator, nor is the man with the metal arm Vesta’s love interest Henry. The man is an incidental minor character. So the cover is a bit deceptive. Still, it is a cool cover.
I don’t know if a series is intended. Vesta’s Clockwork Companions is a standalone novel. But there is potential for more, since there is a dramatic scene near the end. There is plenty of room for character growth and there may be some conflict coming from the Queen of England. So….. I’d like to see more of Vesta and Henry and the fate of the clockwork companions.
Family matters, steampunk, national security and romance make up the tale of Vesta’s Clockwork Companions. I found this book to be sometime humorous, always engaging and entirely entertaining.
The author provided a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
Read
August 9, 2018New Steampunk/Victorian Romance. Released 7/20/2018
October 28, 2018
Reviewed by Robin
Book provided by the author
Originally posted at Romancing the Book
I think that this may be the second steampunk novel that I have ever read. I don’t know why either. I find them rather fascinating. They are fun and full of interesting things. Then when you throw in romance well…they become a really great read.
I simply adored Vesta. She was not only a very strong courageous woman, but also one with a vulnerable side that wasn’t often seen. Yet there it was when her dad was around and also at other times. Sometimes it is hard to show a vulnerability when you are often thought to be strong. It was refreshing to see both sides of Vesta.
Vesta is to marry Percy, Henry‘s older brother. Somehow it just isn’t meant to be as Vesta and everyone else sees that Henry is better suited for Vesta. Henry is more adventurous than Percy which works in Vesta’s favor. Trouble seems to find him whether it is outside the home or within the family and home.
Henry and Vesta have many of the same ideas yet they are still quite different. The similarities drew them together and as they get to know each other the conversations that Ms. Revezzo used between the two were splendid it helped in strengthening their bond with each other and the things they love. They were outside the box thinkers…They found different way in which to create and deal with family. In a way they were hippies well before there time. This is how I envisioned them to be.
I enjoyed the twists and turns it helped make the plot more interesting.
Vesta… a strong woman and her clockwork companions secretly helping the military. Inventions made by a woman with the faith and encouragement from her dad. I really treasured the relationship that they had. It was an inspiration for all fathers and daughters.
Overall I found a new genre and author. I feel that many will find this book to be inspirational. Don’t let steampunk scare you away. You might actually find that you like it.
Book provided by the author
Originally posted at Romancing the Book
I think that this may be the second steampunk novel that I have ever read. I don’t know why either. I find them rather fascinating. They are fun and full of interesting things. Then when you throw in romance well…they become a really great read.
I simply adored Vesta. She was not only a very strong courageous woman, but also one with a vulnerable side that wasn’t often seen. Yet there it was when her dad was around and also at other times. Sometimes it is hard to show a vulnerability when you are often thought to be strong. It was refreshing to see both sides of Vesta.
Vesta is to marry Percy, Henry‘s older brother. Somehow it just isn’t meant to be as Vesta and everyone else sees that Henry is better suited for Vesta. Henry is more adventurous than Percy which works in Vesta’s favor. Trouble seems to find him whether it is outside the home or within the family and home.
Henry and Vesta have many of the same ideas yet they are still quite different. The similarities drew them together and as they get to know each other the conversations that Ms. Revezzo used between the two were splendid it helped in strengthening their bond with each other and the things they love. They were outside the box thinkers…They found different way in which to create and deal with family. In a way they were hippies well before there time. This is how I envisioned them to be.
I enjoyed the twists and turns it helped make the plot more interesting.
Vesta… a strong woman and her clockwork companions secretly helping the military. Inventions made by a woman with the faith and encouragement from her dad. I really treasured the relationship that they had. It was an inspiration for all fathers and daughters.
Overall I found a new genre and author. I feel that many will find this book to be inspirational. Don’t let steampunk scare you away. You might actually find that you like it.
March 1, 2019
In Vesta’s Clockwork Companions Vesta Bartlett, an intelligent inventor who loves to delve into science and practice the skills of alchemy arrives in Nottingham where her father wishes for her to be married to Percy, too bad it’s her fiance’s younger brother Henry Colchester who got her attention…
Henry discovers there are secrets in Nottingham hidden from the public. Sick men from the war haunted by their painful memories in India along with an epidemic threatening to make all dogs extinct. But can they stay focused while their rising desire for one another continues to grow with time?
I enjoyed how the author wrote an independent female character who sought out knowledge to expand her interest in science to change the world for the better. I also admire how she spars with dialogue between people in a room, it was well written and kept me hooked until the end.
This is a standalone book and isn’t part of a series, I would recommend this book to anyone interested in action, romance, and spice of adventure to spark the reader’s soul.
Five Shooting Stars
Henry discovers there are secrets in Nottingham hidden from the public. Sick men from the war haunted by their painful memories in India along with an epidemic threatening to make all dogs extinct. But can they stay focused while their rising desire for one another continues to grow with time?
I enjoyed how the author wrote an independent female character who sought out knowledge to expand her interest in science to change the world for the better. I also admire how she spars with dialogue between people in a room, it was well written and kept me hooked until the end.
This is a standalone book and isn’t part of a series, I would recommend this book to anyone interested in action, romance, and spice of adventure to spark the reader’s soul.
Five Shooting Stars
November 4, 2018
I really enjoyed this book, it was fun and intriguing. An enjoyable, quick read.
July 28, 2018
Before proceeding with my thoughts on the matter, allow me to thank the author for providing an ARC of this book for my delight and review!
Back to the issue at hand. “Vesta’s Clockwork Companions” tells the story of one lady that dares too much and one young man who just can’t stay away from trouble (that includes his family). The plot is so complex and complete and makes you follow all the leads in all directions. We have a beautiful relationship between father and daughter, we have attraction that may become more, we have people that dare too much, creative minds and mischief and secrets and … oh, so much more.
The main characters are so likeable and alike. I loved how the author managed to show their compatibility not only through the dialogue, but as well when describing them. Even in their apparel, Vesta and Henry have the same attitude or carelessness. Well, they are focused on much more important things. I loved their exchanges, so funny and so bold at the same time. Henry is an intelligent young man, who’s intention is to save his family’s affairs, in the honorable way. Vesta is a match to his mind for sure. And this compatibility between them makes it impossible for her to fall in love with her future husband. Yup, she’s supposed to marry Hanry’s brother.
Except the romance, we have people who dare to think outside the box. We have inventors, creators, minds that dare to wonder the paths of science. In a time where society dictates if a person is honorable enough, when women should sew, read and walk graciously around town (with the proper company of course!), Vesta dares to go against these principles. She looks for answers in science. Her father encourages her to do so. They are innovators not only in their creations, but as well in their relationship as a family.
There are so many concepts here that blend beautifully in this amazing story. I loved every page, the characters the dialogue, everything related to the writing. And the cover is gorgeous as well. Please check this book out, it’s really worth your time! 5 out of 5 stars!
Back to the issue at hand. “Vesta’s Clockwork Companions” tells the story of one lady that dares too much and one young man who just can’t stay away from trouble (that includes his family). The plot is so complex and complete and makes you follow all the leads in all directions. We have a beautiful relationship between father and daughter, we have attraction that may become more, we have people that dare too much, creative minds and mischief and secrets and … oh, so much more.
The main characters are so likeable and alike. I loved how the author managed to show their compatibility not only through the dialogue, but as well when describing them. Even in their apparel, Vesta and Henry have the same attitude or carelessness. Well, they are focused on much more important things. I loved their exchanges, so funny and so bold at the same time. Henry is an intelligent young man, who’s intention is to save his family’s affairs, in the honorable way. Vesta is a match to his mind for sure. And this compatibility between them makes it impossible for her to fall in love with her future husband. Yup, she’s supposed to marry Hanry’s brother.
Except the romance, we have people who dare to think outside the box. We have inventors, creators, minds that dare to wonder the paths of science. In a time where society dictates if a person is honorable enough, when women should sew, read and walk graciously around town (with the proper company of course!), Vesta dares to go against these principles. She looks for answers in science. Her father encourages her to do so. They are innovators not only in their creations, but as well in their relationship as a family.
There are so many concepts here that blend beautifully in this amazing story. I loved every page, the characters the dialogue, everything related to the writing. And the cover is gorgeous as well. Please check this book out, it’s really worth your time! 5 out of 5 stars!
August 9, 2025
Revezzo has created a rich and vibrant world of steam-powered engines and gear driven mechanical life that will tickle your imagination. The novel starts a bit slowly as Vesta and her father arrive in England from Texas putting some minor scandal behind them as they start a new life. Vesta’s father is a consultant on an effort to save a foundry, but it is she who has the truly interesting skills. She's an alchemist with a touch of magic that helps her in the creation of mechanical creatures which she sees primarily as toys, but which the English government will see as a tool in helping them win a long and costly war.
For me, the book didn't really get started until a subplot involving the government's war-needs was introduced. I found every aspect of it enticing, including a reluctance on the part of one of the men interested in Vesta to participate in something designed to kill people—even if the contracts would save his foundry and the family fortune. Add to that a little true-to-the-time-period (i.e. Victorian England) surprise that almost derails everyone's plans—and the historian in me was overjoyed.
For me, the book didn't really get started until a subplot involving the government's war-needs was introduced. I found every aspect of it enticing, including a reluctance on the part of one of the men interested in Vesta to participate in something designed to kill people—even if the contracts would save his foundry and the family fortune. Add to that a little true-to-the-time-period (i.e. Victorian England) surprise that almost derails everyone's plans—and the historian in me was overjoyed.
December 19, 2025
Vesta’s Clockwork Companions is a charming, imaginative blend of steampunk romance, historical intrigue, and heartfelt invention.
Vesta Bartlett is a wonderfully compelling protagonist brilliant, capable, and refreshingly self-possessed. Her arrival in Victorian England immediately sets the stage for tension, both social and emotional, and the slow-burn connection between Vesta and Henry is handled with elegance and restraint. Their chemistry grows naturally, layered with moral conflict, unspoken longing, and the rigid expectations of the era, making their relationship deeply engaging.
The steampunk elements are especially delightful. The premise of a world facing the loss of canine companionship is both whimsical and quietly poignant, and the clockwork solution feels inventive rather than gimmicky. The secret military project, Queen Victoria’s involvement, and the fusion of alchemy, ironwork, and clockwork give the story a rich mechanical soul. This novel balances romance, innovation, and historical atmosphere beautifully, offering readers both emotional warmth and imaginative wonder.
Vesta Bartlett is a wonderfully compelling protagonist brilliant, capable, and refreshingly self-possessed. Her arrival in Victorian England immediately sets the stage for tension, both social and emotional, and the slow-burn connection between Vesta and Henry is handled with elegance and restraint. Their chemistry grows naturally, layered with moral conflict, unspoken longing, and the rigid expectations of the era, making their relationship deeply engaging.
The steampunk elements are especially delightful. The premise of a world facing the loss of canine companionship is both whimsical and quietly poignant, and the clockwork solution feels inventive rather than gimmicky. The secret military project, Queen Victoria’s involvement, and the fusion of alchemy, ironwork, and clockwork give the story a rich mechanical soul. This novel balances romance, innovation, and historical atmosphere beautifully, offering readers both emotional warmth and imaginative wonder.
November 24, 2022
A smart steam opera inventor novel
I like stories about young people solving tasks, but in fiction. The young woman is a capable inventor/engineer that does not want to be shackled by a love less marriage or alignment. Read the story to see if she can navigate this!
I like stories about young people solving tasks, but in fiction. The young woman is a capable inventor/engineer that does not want to be shackled by a love less marriage or alignment. Read the story to see if she can navigate this!
March 31, 2025
Inventive, sweet, and cute as all get-out. Loved it.
Displaying 1 - 11 of 11 reviews