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The Brass Queen #1
The Brass Queen
In 1897, a fiery British aristocrat and an inept US spy search for a stolen invisibility serum that could spark a global war.
Miss Constance Haltwhistle is the last in a line of blue-blooded rogue inventors. Selling exotic firearms under her alias, the ‘Brass Queen,’ has kept her baronial estate’s coffers full. But when US spy, Trusdale, saves her from assassins, she’s pulled into a search for a scientist with an invisibility serum. As royal foes create an invisible army to start a global war, Constance and Trusdale must learn to trust each other. If they don’t, the world they know will literally disappear before their eyes.
Miss Constance Haltwhistle is the last in a line of blue-blooded rogue inventors. Selling exotic firearms under her alias, the ‘Brass Queen,’ has kept her baronial estate’s coffers full. But when US spy, Trusdale, saves her from assassins, she’s pulled into a search for a scientist with an invisibility serum. As royal foes create an invisible army to start a global war, Constance and Trusdale must learn to trust each other. If they don’t, the world they know will literally disappear before their eyes.
448 pages, Paperback
First published January 12, 2021
183 people are currently reading
8054 people want to read
About the author
Elizabeth Chatsworth
6 books268 followersElizabeth Chatsworth is a British author and actor based in the US. She loves to write of rogues, rebels, and renegades across time and space.
Elizabeth won both the IBPA Benjamin Franklin Award™ Gold and the Writers Of The Future Contest for Science Fiction & Fantasy. She’s the author of The Brass Queen, an award-winning fantasy set in an alternate Victorian age. The sequel, The Brass Queen: Grand Tour will be published on April 23rd, 2024.
When she’s not writing, Elizabeth works as a voiceover actor. There’s a rumor she possesses the world’s best scone recipe. Contact her at www.elizabethchatsworth.com to see if it’s true!
Elizabeth won both the IBPA Benjamin Franklin Award™ Gold and the Writers Of The Future Contest for Science Fiction & Fantasy. She’s the author of The Brass Queen, an award-winning fantasy set in an alternate Victorian age. The sequel, The Brass Queen: Grand Tour will be published on April 23rd, 2024.
When she’s not writing, Elizabeth works as a voiceover actor. There’s a rumor she possesses the world’s best scone recipe. Contact her at www.elizabethchatsworth.com to see if it’s true!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 255 reviews
June 10, 2021
Thank you to Smith Publicity for sending me a hardback at the end of last year or the beginning of this year. Sorry it took me so long. The book came with an awesome invitation and on the back it had the printers name the MC used it the book 😃
I love the book and characters. There is some great humor as well as some crazy stuff going on left and right!!
I couldn’t decide on a 4 or 4.5 but I’ve went with a 4 due to a few things. Either way, I still loved the book and the steampunk animals were awesome!
Mel 🖤🐶🐺🐾
I love the book and characters. There is some great humor as well as some crazy stuff going on left and right!!
I couldn’t decide on a 4 or 4.5 but I’ve went with a 4 due to a few things. Either way, I still loved the book and the steampunk animals were awesome!
Mel 🖤🐶🐺🐾
May 23, 2021
DNF - 35%. Things I wish I had known before starting The Brass Queen: 1) it is primarily a romance. 2) Steampunk is a style, not an actual system of magic or technology with any degree of plausibility. 3) Brain candy can actually be too fluffy to be palatable.
All of this adds up to a hard no from me. I tried to like Constance Haltwhistle, our buxom chainmail-wearing, pig-raising heroine who is on the hunt for a husband. I was patient when our hero Trusdale is attacked in the bath and inevitably has to rush out into public naked (before Constance, naturally). I endured page after page of anachronistic and (worse) uninteresting banter between the two.
I gave up at this line:
How about no?
The steampunk elements make no attempt at even basic scientific plausibility (although I, too, would like a car gadget that would make me a hot breakfast on the go). Goggles are fashion statements rather than personal protective equipment. Invisibility is a thing, and human flesh is apparently a lot sturdier in this world than in mine ("Last week, two crossbow bolts fired into her midriff merely bounced off her. She shot a hard glare at the bowman and stomped off without so much as a word").
I just looked up the average kinetic energy of a crossbow bolt: 80-100 ft-lb, enough to punch through two people. Obviously there are unknowns here with regard to the mass and velocity of the arrow (kinetic energy = mv^2/450,240), but 25 ft-lb of force is more than enough to kill a deer. Now, Constance was wearing chainmail, so let's say that it was quality, thick gauge chainmail (although unlikely, as it needed to fit beneath her clothes) that it prevented the bolt from piercing. She would still have gone flying with the impact; there would have been broken ribs, internal hemorrhaging, vital organ damage, etc.
Excessively nitpicky? Maybe. This book annoys me so much that I'm willing to tackle physics (my least favorite science!) to nitpick.
The Brass Queen tries so hard to be clever, but ends up being the most asinine book I've read in a long time. Pure wish-fulfillment-y (though not my wishes) ridiculousness.
All of this adds up to a hard no from me. I tried to like Constance Haltwhistle, our buxom chainmail-wearing, pig-raising heroine who is on the hunt for a husband. I was patient when our hero Trusdale is attacked in the bath and inevitably has to rush out into public naked (before Constance, naturally). I endured page after page of anachronistic and (worse) uninteresting banter between the two.
I gave up at this line:
Fashion-wise, it was love at first sight for Constance. Is there any chance I could persuade Trusdale to wear such an outfit? Her heart fluttered unduly at a vision of the hulking American in lilac ruffles and tight white breeches.
How about no?
The steampunk elements make no attempt at even basic scientific plausibility (although I, too, would like a car gadget that would make me a hot breakfast on the go). Goggles are fashion statements rather than personal protective equipment. Invisibility is a thing, and human flesh is apparently a lot sturdier in this world than in mine ("Last week, two crossbow bolts fired into her midriff merely bounced off her. She shot a hard glare at the bowman and stomped off without so much as a word").
I just looked up the average kinetic energy of a crossbow bolt: 80-100 ft-lb, enough to punch through two people. Obviously there are unknowns here with regard to the mass and velocity of the arrow (kinetic energy = mv^2/450,240), but 25 ft-lb of force is more than enough to kill a deer. Now, Constance was wearing chainmail, so let's say that it was quality, thick gauge chainmail (although unlikely, as it needed to fit beneath her clothes) that it prevented the bolt from piercing. She would still have gone flying with the impact; there would have been broken ribs, internal hemorrhaging, vital organ damage, etc.
Excessively nitpicky? Maybe. This book annoys me so much that I'm willing to tackle physics (my least favorite science!) to nitpick.
The Brass Queen tries so hard to be clever, but ends up being the most asinine book I've read in a long time. Pure wish-fulfillment-y (though not my wishes) ridiculousness.
March 9, 2021
Comedy, romance, and adventure light up this delightful gaslamp fantasy set in an alternate Victorian age.
THE BRASS QUEEN was a 2018 Golden Heart® finalist, was showcased in Pitch Wars 2017, and won numerous contests including The Far Side Contest 2018 (Light Paranormal category), The Molly Contest 2018 (Paranormal category), Put Your Heart In A Book Contest 2018 (Paranormal, Science Fiction, & Fantasy category), The Best Banter Contest 2018 (Paranormal category), and The Catherine Contest 2018 (Wild Card category).
THE BRASS QUEEN was a 2018 Golden Heart® finalist, was showcased in Pitch Wars 2017, and won numerous contests including The Far Side Contest 2018 (Light Paranormal category), The Molly Contest 2018 (Paranormal category), Put Your Heart In A Book Contest 2018 (Paranormal, Science Fiction, & Fantasy category), The Best Banter Contest 2018 (Paranormal category), and The Catherine Contest 2018 (Wild Card category).
November 28, 2020
Need a great reading fix? Want to laugh, cheer and marvel at the world these characters live in? Looking for a feisty, fun heroine who marches to the beat of her own drummer? Meet Constance Haltwhistle, the seemingly self-assured start of Elizabeth Chatsworth’s THE BRASS QUEEN! Trust me, you’ll be glad you did…
Forced to find a husband, Constance isn’t the easiest or most desirable lady in the marriage mart and actually, she would prefer to avoid the entire messy affair, except her father has disappeared and her estate is in danger. Enter U.S. spy-from-Kansas, Trusdale, under the guise of a brilliant scientist. But can he fool the intrepid Miss Haltwhistle? Is there something more to her than meets the eye? Is she a villain or a woman with a huge heart and good intentions?
Settle in for a madcap ride created by an author who has a brilliant sense of timing for adventure and humor!
I received a complimentary ARC edition! This is my honest and voluntary review.
Publication date : January 12, 2021
Publisher : Camcat Publishing, LLC
Genre: Steampunk Fantasy
Print length : 457 pages
Available from: Amazon | Barnes & Noble
For Reviews, Giveaways, Fabulous Book News, follow: http://tometender.blogspot.com
Forced to find a husband, Constance isn’t the easiest or most desirable lady in the marriage mart and actually, she would prefer to avoid the entire messy affair, except her father has disappeared and her estate is in danger. Enter U.S. spy-from-Kansas, Trusdale, under the guise of a brilliant scientist. But can he fool the intrepid Miss Haltwhistle? Is there something more to her than meets the eye? Is she a villain or a woman with a huge heart and good intentions?
Settle in for a madcap ride created by an author who has a brilliant sense of timing for adventure and humor!
I received a complimentary ARC edition! This is my honest and voluntary review.
Publication date : January 12, 2021
Publisher : Camcat Publishing, LLC
Genre: Steampunk Fantasy
Print length : 457 pages
Available from: Amazon | Barnes & Noble
For Reviews, Giveaways, Fabulous Book News, follow: http://tometender.blogspot.com
October 30, 2020
In The Brass Queen, this very capable author transports her readers into a nineteenth-century magical world of festooned airships, exo-suits, multi-fueled flamethrowers, mechanical mallet-wielding beasts, brass blunderbusses, and invisibility serum.
The heroine—gregarious, hilarious, and larger-than-life—Constance Haltwhistle, is an arms dealer for an enterprise known as Steamwerks and the daughter of ‘a portal-tripping mad scientist’. Thrust into a fanatical hunt for a husband, in order to retain her family’s estate, she reluctantly hosts a coming-out ball. There she meets J.F. Trusdale, a cowboy from Kansas; the only thing plain about him is the land upon which he took his first breath.
Following the kidnapping of her avant-garde scientists, Constance realizes a diabolical plan is in play and selflessly tosses her own agenda aside with the gallant Trusdale at the ready to assist.
The novel clips along at an entertaining pace. New to this genre, I found it a surprisingly refreshing change from the detective mysteries I normally read, and I highly recommend it.
The heroine—gregarious, hilarious, and larger-than-life—Constance Haltwhistle, is an arms dealer for an enterprise known as Steamwerks and the daughter of ‘a portal-tripping mad scientist’. Thrust into a fanatical hunt for a husband, in order to retain her family’s estate, she reluctantly hosts a coming-out ball. There she meets J.F. Trusdale, a cowboy from Kansas; the only thing plain about him is the land upon which he took his first breath.
Following the kidnapping of her avant-garde scientists, Constance realizes a diabolical plan is in play and selflessly tosses her own agenda aside with the gallant Trusdale at the ready to assist.
The novel clips along at an entertaining pace. New to this genre, I found it a surprisingly refreshing change from the detective mysteries I normally read, and I highly recommend it.
January 13, 2021
I’m fussy about what I read, and rarely give a five star review, but I was lucky enough to be an early reader of this book, and found it delightful. Not only is the world of Lady Constance fun to be in, but the witty repartee between her and the ‘tall, dark, and almost handsome’ American spy she has to deal with is hilarious. A perfect book for when you need cheering up or just to get away from this world to Victorian Yorkshire, where the book is set. A must for lovers of humorous fiction, adventure fiction, historical fiction (albeit alternative) and steampunk. There’s nothing distressing in it, just a good, fun read. And I think teenagers will love it too.
I hope there’s a sequel in the works...
I hope there’s a sequel in the works...
November 13, 2020
Oh my goodness what a fun, steam-powered adventure story THE BRASS QUEEN was From the first line in the book, "The grass is always greener in another dimension," the main character, Constance Haltwhistle steps directly off the page and brings her entire steampunk world with her... I couldn't decide it it was true inter-dimensional travel on Haltwhistle's part or if it was just Chatsworth's splendid writing (which is utterly perfect).
If you're looking for a light-hearted, laugh-out-loud Steampunk adventure story with a sharp main character and an equally multi-dimensional (...universe dimensions or character dimensions?) cast of absurdly hilarious characters, then you absolutely must pick up THE BRASS QUEEN.
If you're looking for a light-hearted, laugh-out-loud Steampunk adventure story with a sharp main character and an equally multi-dimensional (...universe dimensions or character dimensions?) cast of absurdly hilarious characters, then you absolutely must pick up THE BRASS QUEEN.
November 10, 2020
The Brass Queen is a delightful, fun, madcap steampunk adventure, and I enjoyed it enormously! It's escapism in the purest sense of the word, which is exactly what I wanted to read right now. The plot threads overlap and tangle wildly, with fast-moving technicolor hijinks in every chapter. It also doesn't take itself too seriously, encouraging the reader to kick back and enjoy the ride. It's 400 pages long, but I absolutely whipped through it in a weekend.
I'd describe this book as Penny Dreadful meets Scooby-Doo on a dirigible (which is a set of words I frankly never thought I'd use consecutively).
If you're in the mood for a steampunk spree involving invisible assassins, Murder Polo, sky pirates, and a brief appearance by the kraken, you will absolutely eat this up.
I'd describe this book as Penny Dreadful meets Scooby-Doo on a dirigible (which is a set of words I frankly never thought I'd use consecutively).
If you're in the mood for a steampunk spree involving invisible assassins, Murder Polo, sky pirates, and a brief appearance by the kraken, you will absolutely eat this up.
February 28, 2021
Longer doesn't equal better
When you're reading a good book, you don't mind a larger page count. Because then there's even more to savour.
In the opposite case however, it can have a strong reverse effect to the extent that the reader's appreciation will exponentially reduce.
First impression
The cover, title and description were interesting.
On a closer look, the chapter titles also sounded intriguing.
Not to forget the first sentence: "The gras was always greener in another dimension."
And yes, the mention of winning The Best Banter Contest 2018 (Paranormal category) makes one even more curious.
So, it all looked very promising.
Although the first doubts began to rise when it became clear that the author gave herself a 5*-rating on Goodreads.
Of course, as a writer you're proud of your own work. Nobody's gonna argue with that.
But ratings are there to be given by the target audience aka the readers.
The first chapter was a strange mix of totally different elements and the story could still go in different directions from there.
Sadly enough, it only went downwards.
Negative spiral
Where to start?
There were so many flaws that they totally overshadowed the positive things (the good first impression mentioned above and the fact that there weren't much spelling mistakes) which normally would've gained an extra star.
My thoughts in random order:
The worldbuilding is set in the late 1800's and forms a blend of steampunk, victorian, b-movie james bond, c-movie romance, …
It's as if the author couldn't make a choice and threw in a bit of everything.
Furthermore, there's a serious lack of credibility in different areas: characters, events, …
An example of the latter:
"For seven hours, the detectives had taken great care to ensure his skull matched one of five phrenology profiles. It was a matter of departmental pride that any suspect borught in for questioning could be scientifically assigned to the correct criminal category. This was achieved primarily through the application of heavy objects to the suspect's head until its bumps matched the charts."
All of this cán work if the humour really stands out.
But in this case it doesn't. At least not for every reader.
Seeing the many raving reviews on Goodreads, my opinion isn't widespread.
Therefore, it's advised (as always) to form your own opinion about this book.
There are two main characters: the male American protagonist Trusdale is an inept US-spy and the female English protagonist Constance is a 21 year old pig farmer who turned into an arms-dealer and goes under the alias of the “Brass Queen”.
They're both very flat. But above all, they have the most unbelievable/annoying/childish/all of them (pick your choice) reactions I've ever read.
If one were to resume these protagonists, it would be like this: Trusdale hasn't got balls and Constance is obnoxious beyond imagination.
Some of the many reflections of Constance:
"She mentally added public reading to her list of things about Trusdale that irritated her. Perhaps she should start writing these down?"
"She'd always assumed there were few issues in life that couldn't be solved with the application of a hefty bribe or a hearty slap. But between the hunt for a spouse and the quest to find the missing scientists, she needed to approach matters with a little more finesse. It was time for her to become the heroine the situation deserved."
"For some reason, everyone was remarkably unsupportive of her brilliance today."
"If Trusdale was right, and her plan was terrible, this was the last time she would see him alive."
If you want to give your novel a little je ne sais quoi by throwing in a few French words, be at least sure that you do it the right way.
Note to the author and editor: 'the pompous peacock' is translated as 'LE paon pompeux'. From the 15 (!) mentions of this restaurant's name, three of them were wrong and mentioned 'la' instead of 'le'.
"Her face burned hotter than a Madras curry, a popular delicacy at Le Paon Pompeux."
Some things are repeated so many times, it gets on ones nerves.
The restaurant's name was one of them.
The book Babett's Modern Manners, which is kind of a bible for Constance, is another one. It's referred to at least 15 times and just makes no sense at all.
"Shindig? She considered whether it was worth the effort to ask Trusdale to make a formal request using the proper vocabulary. But if she started down that conversational road now, the entire day could disappear into a tautological nightmare of explaining what words he could officially use according to Babett's definition of decorum. Even the very thought of trying to educate him to all the nuances of the English language tired her."
Banter can be so much fun when it's truly witty.
When it's annoying, childish, … and doesn't add any chemistry between the characters nor substance to the story, it's just page-filling.
"Since when does violating a government facility require a chaperone?"
Her eyes widened. "Don't be absurd. I'm a single lady under thirty, and from your consistently poor choices in attire, I assume you're a single gent. So, to avoid any suggestion of impropriety between us, we must have a chaperone. Babett's Modern Manners is quite explicit on the point."
Last but not least, the balance between action and description isn't well maintained.
Page-filling descriptions of non-important things make the reader's attention wandering off.
Despite being 'the brass queen' it must be said that Constance Haltwhistle apparently has never heard of Chekhov's gun.
*Thanks to NetGalley and CamCat Books for providing a digital copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
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January 1, 2024If you want to kick 2021 off with a hearty dose of fantasy shenanigans, go preorder this joyous romp today—your future-self will be eternally grateful!
While hosting a (literally) disastrous party, British aristocrat Constance Haltwhistle meets rough-around-the-edges Kansas cowboy-turned-spy J.F. Trusdale. It’s the definition of “oil on water” as the two are forced into a partnership neither (thinks they) want. Then it’s one entertaining disaster after another as they struggle against invisible bad guys and their own clashing personalities.
Constance is a breath of fiery-fresh air who gives no ground and takes no shit. I’ve never read a character like her in my life, and I can’t tell you how refreshing (and fascinating) it was to watch her navigate the hectic events that unfold.
THE BRASS QUEEN is packed to the gills with exquisite details that immerse you in this steam-powered, alternate-history Victorian England. Between the terrifically rendered action scenes and endless hilarious banter between the two main characters, this book is the definition of a page-turner!
Thank you to the author and CamCat Books for sending me this ARC. This is my honest review.
While hosting a (literally) disastrous party, British aristocrat Constance Haltwhistle meets rough-around-the-edges Kansas cowboy-turned-spy J.F. Trusdale. It’s the definition of “oil on water” as the two are forced into a partnership neither (thinks they) want. Then it’s one entertaining disaster after another as they struggle against invisible bad guys and their own clashing personalities.
Constance is a breath of fiery-fresh air who gives no ground and takes no shit. I’ve never read a character like her in my life, and I can’t tell you how refreshing (and fascinating) it was to watch her navigate the hectic events that unfold.
THE BRASS QUEEN is packed to the gills with exquisite details that immerse you in this steam-powered, alternate-history Victorian England. Between the terrifically rendered action scenes and endless hilarious banter between the two main characters, this book is the definition of a page-turner!
Thank you to the author and CamCat Books for sending me this ARC. This is my honest review.
November 15, 2020
The Brass Queen is a thoroughly delightful steampunk romp with loads of witty banter and endearingly quirky characters. Constance Haltwhistle is a kickass heroine who designs lethal weaponry while still trying to adhere to proper etiquette according to her trusty copy of Babett's Modern Manners. J.F. Trusdale is the mysterious American who becomes her reluctant ally in a quest to find three kidnapped scientists. Imaginative and amusing, it kept me entertained to the very last page. Truly, a fun, escapist read! I'm already looking forward to next book in this enchanting series.
February 23, 2021
Oh my wow this book took my breath away and with a heroine such as Constance Haltwhistle who was so amazing and so much fun to read, I could not put down this book!
This was well written, easy to read, full of great characters in a steampunk/gaslamp fantasy and a historical romance that will delight anyone.
The world building was incredible and I cannot wait to see more of Constance and whatever Chatsworth creates in the next installment.
This was truly fantastic and I absolutely loved it! Do jot miss this one.
This was well written, easy to read, full of great characters in a steampunk/gaslamp fantasy and a historical romance that will delight anyone.
The world building was incredible and I cannot wait to see more of Constance and whatever Chatsworth creates in the next installment.
This was truly fantastic and I absolutely loved it! Do jot miss this one.
January 12, 2021
From the very first page we’re transported to a whimsical, yet deadly steampunk Victorian England. Chatsworth’s writing style makes this novel stand out among the rest. Every single sentence is ripe with humour and wit, and there are countless literary references for every book lover to devour.
This is a true genre-blender, with an action plotline, a historical yet fantastical setting, and a thread of romance holding the whole story together. While the plot is fast-paced and the characters are three-dimensional and intriguing, Chatsworth’s writing style is the major appeal of this book. She doesn't dumb things down for the reader, which is a delightful surprise and makes the laughs that much better.
The world that Chatsworth has created is so dynamic and engaging that it seemed to leap from the page like one of the villain’s exo-suits. The book’s approach to scientific advancement was quite fascinating when it wasn’t downright hilarious.
The romance between Miss Hartwhistle and Trusdale is quite the slow burn, and their interactions are adorable. When they first meet, they despise each other, but it's clear even in the beginning of the novel that their relationship will not be quite so simple. Miss Hartwhistle is an amusing protagonist, with her arrogance and determination in finding a husband so she can inherit her father’s estate. Trusdale almost feels like the voice of reason, though he’s not without his comical moments. There are three points of view throughout the novel: that of the hero and heroine, but we’re also occasionally treated to the perspective of the villain. Prince Lucien is quite possibly the best-written villain I’ve read in a long time. He’s equally amusing and deadly. He’s inefficient, yet merciless. Imperious, yet easily manipulated. The writing in these POV chapters is delightful and at times almost macabre.
While this novel can be enjoyed well enough at the surface level, there's quite a bit of depth to it. As the novel follows a single young woman in the Victorian era, there are feminist undertones to the story. These come in various shapes and sizes, from the fact that the heroine single-handedly runs an arms business to the misogynistic villain’s innermost thoughts.
The Brass Queen is a hilarious read that’s full of literary wonders, from playful puns to witty wordplay. I recommend this book to anyone who is looking for a laugh along with their intrigue, romance, and invisible assassins.
*Thank you to NetGalley and CamCat Books for the ebook to review*
This review appeared first on https://powerlibrarian.wordpress.com/
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January 30, 2021
I just finished reading “The Brass Queen” and I was totally enthralled with the story until the very last page! The Brass Queen is one amazing character! I have been reading steampunk since it first appeared in the pages of Writers of the Future, several years before becoming a recognized genre. This book is by far my favorite steampunk story I have read. Elizabeth has really captured the essence of the genre and Constance, the Brass Queen, is one heck-of-a great character.
I highly recommend this book!
I am now reading Elizabeth’s winning story in the soon-to-be published Writers of the Future 37. And guess what? It’s another steampunk tale! While you will have to wait to read it, just realize you have more coming from Elizabeth.
I highly recommend this book!
I am now reading Elizabeth’s winning story in the soon-to-be published Writers of the Future 37. And guess what? It’s another steampunk tale! While you will have to wait to read it, just realize you have more coming from Elizabeth.
September 8, 2020
The Brass Queen is a delightful romp through a Steam Punk world. Elizabeth Chatsworth, author, keeps the pace moving as Miss Constance Haltwhistle, inventor, warrior, liar, and very proper Victorian Miss, meets her match in dashing American, cowboy, spy, Trusdale, who has secrets of his own. I highly recommend The Brass Queen for the story, the word-play, and the sheer delight. Well done.
June 24, 2020
I read an early draft and just adored this book. This world of The Brass Queen is so big and imaginative, the characters are instantly lovable, and the writing has a special kind of big-hearted, witty humor all the way through. I probably laughed on every page. Can't wait to get it in print!
November 16, 2019
I was able to read an early version of The Brass Queen and can't recommend it highly enough. It's a lighthearted, creative, and witty adventure story you don't want to miss.
February 3, 2024
I've never read a Steampunk book before, but now I want to read them all.
The Brass Queen was a surprising lot of fun and I don't know how to reconcile my amusement with and enjoyment of this story with the fact that Steampunk is a subgenre of Science Fiction, for which I hold a certain distaste as a genre.
Alas, this story was a blast--both metaphorically and realistically.
Reading this story was like piecing together several random history books, while simultaneously watching Shanghai Knights (the films with Owen Wilson and Jacki Chan) and Around the World in 80 Days (the Disney version from 2004, also with Jacki Chan). It had the same wild, wacky, and somehow also believably unbelievable sense of humor and shenanigans.
The Brass Queen is a story about one Constance Haltwhistle, daughter of a scientist and archeologist who has gone missing somewhere in time and history; her cousin Wellington, who might be a bit of a ditz if not for his sharp wit and sly nature; and one poor and overly honorable JF Trusdale, an unfortunate American spy who is just doing his best. It also includes wild cats, invisible assassins, and a host of overprotective, sassy servants who are trying to keep Constance alive and out of trouble. (Newsflash, everyone loves a good failure in that regard.)
The characters in this story all have a certain life to them that I haven't read in a set of characters in a long while, especially within this type of world and setting. The story was filled with a deep sense of adventure and wild insanity that had me laughing and eager to see what happened next. I felt like all of the characters had a sense of equality on screen together and no one faded into the background or was less interesting than the others. Even the side characters meshed well with the main characters, though there were some I'd liked to have spent more time with. I do think though that while Constance had a lot of spunk and vigor and you never knew what she was going to do next, Trusdale was probably my favorite because there was a lot more weight and conflict in his points of view. (That said, there is a light sprinkle of romance suggested in the series and with all the trouble they get into and the sassy banter between them, they're a couple you can root for and enjoy seeing develop--Thank god it wasn't instalove, though. Thank actual God.)
The one thing that was a struggle, admittedly, in the beginning was reconciling the time period. I'm assuming--having not read much of the genre before--that Steampunk is known for its AU time periods/settings. And this story was no exception. We had cowboys, British Invasion, Queen Victoria, red coats vs the Americans, and Nikola Tesla all in one place at one time. Which was confusing in the beginning, but once I pushed figuring that out to the back of my mind and settled in to just enjoy the story and characters, it made things much easier. So, I did remove a star for that because for someone with an analytical mind, it took me a little while to get past that. Once I did, however, I discovered a wealth of amusing world building details that really amped up the individuality of this world.
I also felt that the ending was a bit rushed. I was amused by it and excited to see what happens next, but it did feel a bit like it just "cut off" rather than eased us into the second book. And not "cut off" in the manner of a cliffhanger. Just that the last few chapters rushed us through the climax and then said "off we go on another adventure." Which, of course, I will be more than happy to go on because I enjoy the characters, but I do wish it had slowed down and drawn things out a little better. (Of course, it's hard to draw things too far out when your necks are on the line, I suppose.)
The Brass Queen was a surprising lot of fun and I don't know how to reconcile my amusement with and enjoyment of this story with the fact that Steampunk is a subgenre of Science Fiction, for which I hold a certain distaste as a genre.
Alas, this story was a blast--both metaphorically and realistically.
Reading this story was like piecing together several random history books, while simultaneously watching Shanghai Knights (the films with Owen Wilson and Jacki Chan) and Around the World in 80 Days (the Disney version from 2004, also with Jacki Chan). It had the same wild, wacky, and somehow also believably unbelievable sense of humor and shenanigans.
The Brass Queen is a story about one Constance Haltwhistle, daughter of a scientist and archeologist who has gone missing somewhere in time and history; her cousin Wellington, who might be a bit of a ditz if not for his sharp wit and sly nature; and one poor and overly honorable JF Trusdale, an unfortunate American spy who is just doing his best. It also includes wild cats, invisible assassins, and a host of overprotective, sassy servants who are trying to keep Constance alive and out of trouble. (Newsflash, everyone loves a good failure in that regard.)
The characters in this story all have a certain life to them that I haven't read in a set of characters in a long while, especially within this type of world and setting. The story was filled with a deep sense of adventure and wild insanity that had me laughing and eager to see what happened next. I felt like all of the characters had a sense of equality on screen together and no one faded into the background or was less interesting than the others. Even the side characters meshed well with the main characters, though there were some I'd liked to have spent more time with. I do think though that while Constance had a lot of spunk and vigor and you never knew what she was going to do next, Trusdale was probably my favorite because there was a lot more weight and conflict in his points of view. (That said, there is a light sprinkle of romance suggested in the series and with all the trouble they get into and the sassy banter between them, they're a couple you can root for and enjoy seeing develop--Thank god it wasn't instalove, though. Thank actual God.)
The one thing that was a struggle, admittedly, in the beginning was reconciling the time period. I'm assuming--having not read much of the genre before--that Steampunk is known for its AU time periods/settings. And this story was no exception. We had cowboys, British Invasion, Queen Victoria, red coats vs the Americans, and Nikola Tesla all in one place at one time. Which was confusing in the beginning, but once I pushed figuring that out to the back of my mind and settled in to just enjoy the story and characters, it made things much easier. So, I did remove a star for that because for someone with an analytical mind, it took me a little while to get past that. Once I did, however, I discovered a wealth of amusing world building details that really amped up the individuality of this world.
I also felt that the ending was a bit rushed. I was amused by it and excited to see what happens next, but it did feel a bit like it just "cut off" rather than eased us into the second book. And not "cut off" in the manner of a cliffhanger. Just that the last few chapters rushed us through the climax and then said "off we go on another adventure." Which, of course, I will be more than happy to go on because I enjoy the characters, but I do wish it had slowed down and drawn things out a little better. (Of course, it's hard to draw things too far out when your necks are on the line, I suppose.)
January 24, 2021
Outlandish characters and situations deftly juggled with wit and style.
An alternate steam-powered c. 1900 world becomes the setting for a romance between an American from Kansas and a baron's daughter, who due to British laws about property and inheritance must marry within three days or lose everything. The plot includes a cornucopia of made-up inventions, with foreshadowing of other alternate realities reachable by secret means, as well as an invisibility serum.
It's all good fun and hearkens back to the dime novels of that same c. 1900 era. The story rolls along, with the central pair becoming ever more alive, credible and empathetic.
Here are a few quotes to give a sense of the wit and wierdness:
Her tone was colder than a brass toilet seat in the Yukon. p. 56
The Pyrrho Club had been founded on the principle that exponential growth in human knowledge could be achieved through the liberal consumption of alcohol. p. 69
Curiosity had wiped out many a world in the multiverse. p. 71
You are riding upon a levitating reading room. p. 74
Papa had speculated that the flickers of light some perceived to be ghosts were actually reflections of beings in other dimensions. p. 92
He studied her as if she were a rare butterfly, or a misprinted postage stamp. p. 188
... sobbing onto each other's shoulders like paid mourners at a slumlord's funeral. p. 194
The keys were fragments of ancient technology that was once used to teara the veil between dimensions. p. 216
My father believes they were made by humans, perhaps even alternate versions of ourselves. There are entire worlds that live in the same space we inhabit, separated from us by the merest whisper of time and circumstance. Perhaps in one of those worlds, you're asking a better question while wearing more suitable attire. pp. 216-217
,,, mental transportation without physical movement." p. 217
... as if he had captured a lightning bug from another world." pp. 217-218
Vive la republique. Isn't that what that Parisian mob shouted right before the French king had them all hanged? p. 232
Telepathic communication with extradimensional artifacts was not a subject she'd excelled at.
You need more than one key to open those doors. And to transport an entire army without casualties, you'd need to understand the true nature of Aurumvivax. This golden slop is all that remains of the giant bubble craft that once brought visitors from another dimension to our world. Upon arrival, the ships melt, and the creatures emerge, ready to-- p. 378
I wish you joy in the years ahead. Remember my words -- stay sharp, look your enemy dead in the eye, shoot them in the back if you can. p. 394
... how do you tell the US Government that your simple spy mission has turned into an interdimensional incident involving telepathic kraken, invisible assassins, and a plot to overthrow the Queen of England? p. 399
Inhabited by a plethora of non-human intelligent creatures and occasionally alternate versions of ourselves. The cosmos is a gorgeous mess. Isn't it wonderful? p. 410
Absolutely. Maybe. No. p. 417
An alternate steam-powered c. 1900 world becomes the setting for a romance between an American from Kansas and a baron's daughter, who due to British laws about property and inheritance must marry within three days or lose everything. The plot includes a cornucopia of made-up inventions, with foreshadowing of other alternate realities reachable by secret means, as well as an invisibility serum.
It's all good fun and hearkens back to the dime novels of that same c. 1900 era. The story rolls along, with the central pair becoming ever more alive, credible and empathetic.
Here are a few quotes to give a sense of the wit and wierdness:
Her tone was colder than a brass toilet seat in the Yukon. p. 56
The Pyrrho Club had been founded on the principle that exponential growth in human knowledge could be achieved through the liberal consumption of alcohol. p. 69
Curiosity had wiped out many a world in the multiverse. p. 71
You are riding upon a levitating reading room. p. 74
Papa had speculated that the flickers of light some perceived to be ghosts were actually reflections of beings in other dimensions. p. 92
He studied her as if she were a rare butterfly, or a misprinted postage stamp. p. 188
... sobbing onto each other's shoulders like paid mourners at a slumlord's funeral. p. 194
The keys were fragments of ancient technology that was once used to teara the veil between dimensions. p. 216
My father believes they were made by humans, perhaps even alternate versions of ourselves. There are entire worlds that live in the same space we inhabit, separated from us by the merest whisper of time and circumstance. Perhaps in one of those worlds, you're asking a better question while wearing more suitable attire. pp. 216-217
,,, mental transportation without physical movement." p. 217
... as if he had captured a lightning bug from another world." pp. 217-218
Vive la republique. Isn't that what that Parisian mob shouted right before the French king had them all hanged? p. 232
Telepathic communication with extradimensional artifacts was not a subject she'd excelled at.
You need more than one key to open those doors. And to transport an entire army without casualties, you'd need to understand the true nature of Aurumvivax. This golden slop is all that remains of the giant bubble craft that once brought visitors from another dimension to our world. Upon arrival, the ships melt, and the creatures emerge, ready to-- p. 378
I wish you joy in the years ahead. Remember my words -- stay sharp, look your enemy dead in the eye, shoot them in the back if you can. p. 394
... how do you tell the US Government that your simple spy mission has turned into an interdimensional incident involving telepathic kraken, invisible assassins, and a plot to overthrow the Queen of England? p. 399
Inhabited by a plethora of non-human intelligent creatures and occasionally alternate versions of ourselves. The cosmos is a gorgeous mess. Isn't it wonderful? p. 410
Absolutely. Maybe. No. p. 417
December 3, 2020
Such a fun book! Miss Constance Haltwhistle and J.S. Trusdale are indelible and intrepid characters, and their adventures kept me turning pages (though I could have done with a smidge more of that heavily hinted-at romance!). The side characters were also amusing, and I love how Chatsworth brings in fantastical elements - alternate universes exist alongside and facilitated by steampunk technology. The humor was also top notch.
November 14, 2020
The Brass Queen by Elizabeth Chatsworth is an excellent historical fiction/science fiction/romance/fantasy novel that gives the Steampunk genre a whole new gleam and shimmer.
I loved all of the facets that this book possessed: action, adventure, fantasy, romance, complex and fascinating characters, a great plot, and is a great book all around. It was fun, addicting, playful, sassy, and serious all at the same time.
This is a new author for me, as well as a dabble into a genre that I am only just starting to really get into and enjoy. A lot of other books have quite a bit to live up to after reading this one, however. I was thoroughly engrossed with this story and loved the interplay, chemistry, banter, and wit between Miss Constance Haltwhistle and J. F. Trusdale.
I was surprised when I finished this book in less then two days...that is most certainly a compliment. If you are looking for a great and epic adventure, you need to read this one.
5/5 stars
Thank you NetGalley and CamCat Books for this ARC and in return I am submitting my unbiased and voluntary review and opinion.
I am posting this review to my GR and Bookbub accounts immediately and will post it to my Amazon and B&N accounts upon publication on 1/12/21.
I loved all of the facets that this book possessed: action, adventure, fantasy, romance, complex and fascinating characters, a great plot, and is a great book all around. It was fun, addicting, playful, sassy, and serious all at the same time.
This is a new author for me, as well as a dabble into a genre that I am only just starting to really get into and enjoy. A lot of other books have quite a bit to live up to after reading this one, however. I was thoroughly engrossed with this story and loved the interplay, chemistry, banter, and wit between Miss Constance Haltwhistle and J. F. Trusdale.
I was surprised when I finished this book in less then two days...that is most certainly a compliment. If you are looking for a great and epic adventure, you need to read this one.
5/5 stars
Thank you NetGalley and CamCat Books for this ARC and in return I am submitting my unbiased and voluntary review and opinion.
I am posting this review to my GR and Bookbub accounts immediately and will post it to my Amazon and B&N accounts upon publication on 1/12/21.
November 4, 2020
The Brass Queen is a first time read by Elizabeth Chatsworth, a new to me author. I typically do not read much steampunk or sci-fi fantasy romances but have in the past and thought this one might be very interesting to read.
Miss Constance Haltwhistle, heroine who believes everything is about her. She believes only in herself and doesn’t care about others and their feelings. In the beginning of the story, I found it very hard to believe that she could be the beauty that would have men lining up when she has characteristics mentioned above. However, when J.F. Trusdale, an American spy enters the scene, the dynamics of the story changes for both characters. There is quite a bit of banter between the H/h that I love which makes for a good start to the romantic relationship between the two. Although the story has its ups and downs, it kept my interest and turned out to be a light-hearted and entertaining story. The characters are loveable in their own way that also makes this book a humorous and adventurous delight.
Thank you Netgalley and CamCat Publishing for this ARC in exchange for my fair and honest review. Opinions and thoughts expressed are completely my own.
Miss Constance Haltwhistle, heroine who believes everything is about her. She believes only in herself and doesn’t care about others and their feelings. In the beginning of the story, I found it very hard to believe that she could be the beauty that would have men lining up when she has characteristics mentioned above. However, when J.F. Trusdale, an American spy enters the scene, the dynamics of the story changes for both characters. There is quite a bit of banter between the H/h that I love which makes for a good start to the romantic relationship between the two. Although the story has its ups and downs, it kept my interest and turned out to be a light-hearted and entertaining story. The characters are loveable in their own way that also makes this book a humorous and adventurous delight.
Thank you Netgalley and CamCat Publishing for this ARC in exchange for my fair and honest review. Opinions and thoughts expressed are completely my own.
August 24, 2020
So much fun to read! Quirky characters in a fantastical world with good-natured humor bursting from every page. I want to spend every day with Constance and Trusdale as they bicker and bumble through one bizarre situation after another. Behind it all, there's a sharp feminist satire poking fun at empires, authority, and those who tell you how you should live your life. I hope this joyful book is the first in a series!
November 13, 2019
I read an early draft of this novel, and it was fantastic! I'm a hardcore fan of this witty, funny, alternate history adventure!
December 24, 2020
Personal rating- 2/10
DNF at 33%
I received an eArc from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review
I'm not gonna beat around the bush here. This is a rant review, I usually try to uphold both my personal positives and negatives of the book and let the reader decide for themselves; because reading is a subjective experience and they might like something that I don't like. This time it's just a rant, hopefully explaining why I would DNF an Arc. I wish the author and publisher all the best for their success, but this book was just not for me, and I think I'd grow to loathe it more if I force myself to read it instead of just moving on.
The only thing that I probably liked about the book was the premise. The idea is so creative- which is why I requested for the Arc in the first place. I don't have much to add.
My first issue with the book is the Main Character. I did NOT like Constance. She's just so childish and one dimensional. I expected The Brass Queen to be.. you know... Badass? And her little "quirks" are also very annoying. She's supposed to be 21! She feels like a 14-year-old. Maybe she develops further on in the story, but I wanted and was waiting for a gradual maturity to a more. oh, idk a capable arms dealer? Am I really expected to believe that an established arms dealer who's supposed to be finessing people all over to have 0 people skills? She's an awful liar, mutters while thinking, and cannot keep a poker face and she's supposed to be the "badass" Brass Queen? Good luck with that. And She's just so bland. Whatever, have a quote.
So.. yeah.
Then we have the cowboy-spy boy. Trusdale, well... he doesn't have enough character for me to start a substantial discussion yet. So, moving on...
This setting was on colonialist Britain, although an alternate version. It's just history and I see characters glorifying it but not the author, so that's a good job on her part. I was just... estranged from it, as a citizen of a previously colonized country. This one's on me though, it's just history and I should've seen this coming.
Speaking about Britain, it honestly felt like a parody. An idea of what the modern commonfolk thinks when they think of Victorian Era Britain. I could feel the dissonance of the characters from the setting. They felt like a modern YA protagonist stuck in that setting. It was just meh.
The Writing is just so tedious to get through. I'm not even gonna try to explain, I don't know HOW to explain except that "It's just not for me".
Well, I can't pinpoint on why I find lines like this tedious, but I do.
The time I truly began to lose hope was when the oh so Proper British Noble Ladies referred to Italy and the likes as "Europe", as if Britain is not a part of the European Continent...
So yeah... I guess I'm done with ranting. Happy reading!
DNF at 33%
I received an eArc from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review
I'm not gonna beat around the bush here. This is a rant review, I usually try to uphold both my personal positives and negatives of the book and let the reader decide for themselves; because reading is a subjective experience and they might like something that I don't like. This time it's just a rant, hopefully explaining why I would DNF an Arc. I wish the author and publisher all the best for their success, but this book was just not for me, and I think I'd grow to loathe it more if I force myself to read it instead of just moving on.
The only thing that I probably liked about the book was the premise. The idea is so creative- which is why I requested for the Arc in the first place. I don't have much to add.
My first issue with the book is the Main Character. I did NOT like Constance. She's just so childish and one dimensional. I expected The Brass Queen to be.. you know... Badass? And her little "quirks" are also very annoying. She's supposed to be 21! She feels like a 14-year-old. Maybe she develops further on in the story, but I wanted and was waiting for a gradual maturity to a more. oh, idk a capable arms dealer? Am I really expected to believe that an established arms dealer who's supposed to be finessing people all over to have 0 people skills? She's an awful liar, mutters while thinking, and cannot keep a poker face and she's supposed to be the "badass" Brass Queen? Good luck with that. And She's just so bland. Whatever, have a quote.
"She cursed her lack of fluency. She was only proficient in nineteen languages, including French, Latin, Russian, Welsh, Portuguese, and nine dialects of Ancient Sumerian."
So.. yeah.
Then we have the cowboy-spy boy. Trusdale, well... he doesn't have enough character for me to start a substantial discussion yet. So, moving on...
This setting was on colonialist Britain, although an alternate version. It's just history and I see characters glorifying it but not the author, so that's a good job on her part. I was just... estranged from it, as a citizen of a previously colonized country. This one's on me though, it's just history and I should've seen this coming.
Speaking about Britain, it honestly felt like a parody. An idea of what the modern commonfolk thinks when they think of Victorian Era Britain. I could feel the dissonance of the characters from the setting. They felt like a modern YA protagonist stuck in that setting. It was just meh.
"Did Americans have no concept of the British need for three feet of personal space?"
The Writing is just so tedious to get through. I'm not even gonna try to explain, I don't know HOW to explain except that "It's just not for me".
"A shaving shelf behind the dolphins held an extendable mirror, a straight razor, a mug, soap, a badger hair brush, grooming scissors, and a tin of mustache wax. Everything the modern gent needed to look presentable to the fairer sex."
Well, I can't pinpoint on why I find lines like this tedious, but I do.
The time I truly began to lose hope was when the oh so Proper British Noble Ladies referred to Italy and the likes as "Europe", as if Britain is not a part of the European Continent...
"Indeed? Servants can be so self-centered. You give them a roof over their head and pennies in their pocket, and then poof. Off they go to Europe at the drop of a hat. There should be a law against it. Is this the same maid who put you in that awful white dress?
So yeah... I guess I'm done with ranting. Happy reading!
December 9, 2020
Ms Chatsworth, whom I virtually met on Litsy ages ago, knows how to write, and the ARC I read clearly showed all the hard work she has put into the book. It was relaxing to read something that had a well thought through timeline and plot, AND there were no inconsistencies whatsoever – something to bring out the champagne for, actually.
What’s the story about? The story is about Constance Haltwhistle, daughter of a baron who’s been absent from his estate for ages, and arms dealer to a company called Steamwerks. And Mr Trusdale, a Stetson wearing American who is and is not the person he pretends to be.
Although Constance lives in an alternate Steampunk Victorian age, she still can’t inherit her father’s estate. Since her father has been absent for a very long time, her uncle is threatening to seize the estate from under Constances bustle, if she can’t manage to snag a decent husband within the next week.
Her coming out ball is a big success until the three exo-suits that were meant as pure decoration start moving seemingly on their own accord and abduct three scientist friends of Constance’s. That’s when Constance decides that, although she is on the planning committee for the royal visit of the Queen, taking place in a few days, and actively looking for a husband, she needs to rescue her friends at all costs.
Aided by the cowboy Mr Trusdale, her coach man and her butler, Constance is on a mission to bring her big plan of rescuing her friends to fruition. Which means, the reader may settle in for a mad-cap ride through a well-designed and thoroughly thought out world-building with weirdly funny characters and excellent pacing.
What’s the story about? The story is about Constance Haltwhistle, daughter of a baron who’s been absent from his estate for ages, and arms dealer to a company called Steamwerks. And Mr Trusdale, a Stetson wearing American who is and is not the person he pretends to be.
Although Constance lives in an alternate Steampunk Victorian age, she still can’t inherit her father’s estate. Since her father has been absent for a very long time, her uncle is threatening to seize the estate from under Constances bustle, if she can’t manage to snag a decent husband within the next week.
Her coming out ball is a big success until the three exo-suits that were meant as pure decoration start moving seemingly on their own accord and abduct three scientist friends of Constance’s. That’s when Constance decides that, although she is on the planning committee for the royal visit of the Queen, taking place in a few days, and actively looking for a husband, she needs to rescue her friends at all costs.
Aided by the cowboy Mr Trusdale, her coach man and her butler, Constance is on a mission to bring her big plan of rescuing her friends to fruition. Which means, the reader may settle in for a mad-cap ride through a well-designed and thoroughly thought out world-building with weirdly funny characters and excellent pacing.
January 17, 2021
This book was so much more than I expected it to be. The world building is excellent with a lot of unique elements. I´m really impressed of all the wonderfully complex inventions which are just as realistical as a work of imagination. The magical elements are seamlessly woven into both the world and story which really makes it all more real.
Another thing which really sets this book apart from many in the same genre is how brilliant Elixabeth Chatsworth uses the English language to bring life and especially emotions into the story. The descriptions are sometimes very uniquely written but that is also what makes all the characters come to life. For example, the sentence: "Behind him trailed an elderly male servant with the air of a depressed stork." This description is funny while also giving the reader a very clear picture of how the character is. This is just one of many brilliant descriptions in the book.
The Brass Queen is not only a funny and clever historical SciFi read but also contains topics such as feminism, and especially how women was seen on in that particular time era.
It is a wonderfull combination of suspense, romance ( enemies/not friends-to-lovers kind of trope and the romantic tension is just perfect) , mystery, SciFi and more than a little humour. I truly recommend this book!
Another thing which really sets this book apart from many in the same genre is how brilliant Elixabeth Chatsworth uses the English language to bring life and especially emotions into the story. The descriptions are sometimes very uniquely written but that is also what makes all the characters come to life. For example, the sentence: "Behind him trailed an elderly male servant with the air of a depressed stork." This description is funny while also giving the reader a very clear picture of how the character is. This is just one of many brilliant descriptions in the book.
The Brass Queen is not only a funny and clever historical SciFi read but also contains topics such as feminism, and especially how women was seen on in that particular time era.
It is a wonderfull combination of suspense, romance ( enemies/not friends-to-lovers kind of trope and the romantic tension is just perfect) , mystery, SciFi and more than a little humour. I truly recommend this book!
October 16, 2020
Thanks to NetGalley for the ARC.
Okay, so envision Mary Poppins but as a younger, flame-haired, brilliant arms dealer. And then imagine Mr. Dawes Sr. as a Stetson-wearing spy from Kansas. Subtract the kids, add an airship or two and some flame guns. Got it? That's this book, and it's so much fun.
I was surprised how much I enjoyed this story, honestly. Steampunk (or gaslamp fantasy, I get them confused) isn't always my genre. It's a lot of fun, but it's so niche and after a few stories you sort of get the idea. But I really found Chatsworth's feminist reworking of the genre to be so fresh and interesting and hilarious. I literally laughed out loud in a few spots.
I'm going to be recommending this to readers who enjoy witty banter, dry humor, and much derring-do. It's also a good fit for folks who enjoy a dash of romance but don't want to be overwhelmed by the heaving bodices and such. Also, Chatsworth is a fellow librarian so LET'S SHOW HER ALL THE LOVE.
Okay, so envision Mary Poppins but as a younger, flame-haired, brilliant arms dealer. And then imagine Mr. Dawes Sr. as a Stetson-wearing spy from Kansas. Subtract the kids, add an airship or two and some flame guns. Got it? That's this book, and it's so much fun.
I was surprised how much I enjoyed this story, honestly. Steampunk (or gaslamp fantasy, I get them confused) isn't always my genre. It's a lot of fun, but it's so niche and after a few stories you sort of get the idea. But I really found Chatsworth's feminist reworking of the genre to be so fresh and interesting and hilarious. I literally laughed out loud in a few spots.
I'm going to be recommending this to readers who enjoy witty banter, dry humor, and much derring-do. It's also a good fit for folks who enjoy a dash of romance but don't want to be overwhelmed by the heaving bodices and such. Also, Chatsworth is a fellow librarian so LET'S SHOW HER ALL THE LOVE.
November 26, 2020
If you've never read a gaslamp fantasy/steampunk novel before, this book is a great place to start. The pace is fast, the characters are hilarious, and the steam-powered inventions are intriguing. There's biting satire about the British Empire, but that doesn't overshadow the charming interplay of characters at all levels of society. Constance and Trusdale's bickering is perfect, as is their comic ineptness at investigating the kidnapping of scientists, one of whom has accidentally invented an invisibility serum. Hijinks ensue at every turn, and our unconventional heroes somehow manage to reach an endgame that recalls Monty Python in its very British eccentricity. I look forward to reading the sequel!
November 28, 2020
The Brass Queen is a multifaceted book with lots of character. From the ridiculous speeches the main character gives, to her bravery, her confidence and her intelligence. While situations depicted in the book are not entirely realistic, it made for a great read.
It is a lovely mix of fantasy, history, romance and Tech. The Brass Queen has a rather fresh view of Tech and it's possibilities as well as male/female relationship dynamics.
A great read.
It is a lovely mix of fantasy, history, romance and Tech. The Brass Queen has a rather fresh view of Tech and it's possibilities as well as male/female relationship dynamics.
A great read.
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