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Mongrel #1
Mongrel
Hunzinger's Mechanical Circus, a rollicking seaside carnival where imagination meets machinery, shines as the only bright spot in the dreary city of Purinton. A shadow is cast there one day when a tall, cloaked figure approaches the stand of Will Marchman, a young patent-medicine salesman. Fanule Perfidor, commonly known as the Dog King, isn't welcome at the Circus. No resident of Taintwell is; they're all Branded Mongrels, officially shunned. But Will is beguiled by the stunning, mysterious Perfidor. Their mutual wariness soon gives way to desire, and a bond forms. Soon the naive but plucky pitchman becomes embroiled in a dangerous quest. Fanule suspects Alphonse Hunzinger and Purinton's civic leaders are responsible for the disappearance or incarceration of countless Branded Mongrels. But why? As Will's passion and regard for his tormented lover grow, he's determined to help Fanule get answers and prevent any further persecution... or worse. They just have to stay together—and stay alive long enough—to see their plan through.
202 pages, Kindle Edition
First published December 8, 2010
15 people are currently reading
1201 people want to read
About the author
K.Z. Snow
57 books273 followersThis says it all: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sH7rt4...
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 119 reviews
August 8, 2015
oh, bugger.
first time I've ever been torn 'twixt one star rating and another to any degree worth bothering with a decimal.
fanule's a wonderfully inviting main character, and the more I read of him the more I wanted to know of and/or have sex with him.
the setting is terrific. not as richly drawn as I'd have liked, but here and there are marvelously descriptive passages that made me want to run around learning about (and/or having sex with) everything.
the secondary characters were powerfully enticing creations as well. from marrowbone the vampire to wossiname the bounty hunter with the libido of a rabbit—never mind the dismembered hedge-witch and her cat—both, sadly, deceased—there is much to admire, and many delights in store for the reader of whimsical fictions.
so that's the good—but then there's the bad.
it's a long list, but it's basically a list of different examples of the same problem: wildly extravagant similes that make no sense whatsoever.
it ruined my enjoyment of anything else, because it snatched me right out of the story like a vaudevillian hook—and usually as I was preparing to have sex with something.
I spent the last two thirds of this novel cringing and wincing, waiting for the next crushingly bad line to bring the story to a clattering, clanking halt with a metaphor tortured so recklessly as to go far beyond the mere purple into a Right Proper Eggplant.
a measure of restraint (such as what inexplicably prevents me from a crisply vicious accounting of the thorough notes i took on this matter) would have permitted me to rate this a three—or even a four.
but my joy in the otherwise fine and playful wordsmithing to be found in this book was quite mortally wounded by poor editorial choices, so as to sadly keep me from being able to say I enjoyed this much at all.
if only.
all the delicious pieces were there—just drowned in literary ketchup.
two point five stars, and damned if I didn't really, really want to love this.
perhaps having sex with something will ease my pain.
first time I've ever been torn 'twixt one star rating and another to any degree worth bothering with a decimal.
fanule's a wonderfully inviting main character, and the more I read of him the more I wanted to know of and/or have sex with him.
the setting is terrific. not as richly drawn as I'd have liked, but here and there are marvelously descriptive passages that made me want to run around learning about (and/or having sex with) everything.
the secondary characters were powerfully enticing creations as well. from marrowbone the vampire to wossiname the bounty hunter with the libido of a rabbit—never mind the dismembered hedge-witch and her cat—both, sadly, deceased—there is much to admire, and many delights in store for the reader of whimsical fictions.
so that's the good—but then there's the bad.
it's a long list, but it's basically a list of different examples of the same problem: wildly extravagant similes that make no sense whatsoever.
it ruined my enjoyment of anything else, because it snatched me right out of the story like a vaudevillian hook—and usually as I was preparing to have sex with something.
I spent the last two thirds of this novel cringing and wincing, waiting for the next crushingly bad line to bring the story to a clattering, clanking halt with a metaphor tortured so recklessly as to go far beyond the mere purple into a Right Proper Eggplant.
a measure of restraint (such as what inexplicably prevents me from a crisply vicious accounting of the thorough notes i took on this matter) would have permitted me to rate this a three—or even a four.
but my joy in the otherwise fine and playful wordsmithing to be found in this book was quite mortally wounded by poor editorial choices, so as to sadly keep me from being able to say I enjoyed this much at all.
if only.
all the delicious pieces were there—just drowned in literary ketchup.
two point five stars, and damned if I didn't really, really want to love this.
perhaps having sex with something will ease my pain.
June 19, 2012
The world building, guys, omigod! A Mechanical Circus, a town called Taintwell, a cat that can disassemble itself, and a group of people called Branded Mongrels. And the hero is called Fanule Perfidor, the Dog King. How is that not the best name you've ever heard outside Hogwarts?
This is a mix of steampunk and paranormal fantasy, and it's a rollicking great story. I love steampunk when it's done well, and here it is definitely done well. There is a whole other world inside this book, and I've got my fingers crossed for a sequel.
This is a mix of steampunk and paranormal fantasy, and it's a rollicking great story. I love steampunk when it's done well, and here it is definitely done well. There is a whole other world inside this book, and I've got my fingers crossed for a sequel.
January 14, 2011
Fanule Perfidor is not a name, it's a magical spell that gives life to one of the hottest, sexiest, nicest, most compassionate, most sympathetic and BEST characters I've ever read. In the book everyone seems to be startled and awed by his physical presence and I have no doubt about it, because he takes possession of the heart and mind of the reader and then you're his. He has a dangerous and sinful aura, he has scars and he is probably bi-polar, going through mania and depression in phases, taking a potion to keep his balance. He is committed to his people, the Mongrels. He is their leader and protector. His sense of justice leads his action and when he gives himself, be it with his heart or his body, he is generous and open and vulnerable.
Will Marchman (William for Fanule) is the other half. He is a nice young man, maybe a little naive, but he is courageous and deceivingly strong, the perfect match for Fanule. Will is a Pure, 100% human, and in a world where Mongrels are treated as outcasts and branded with a ratio that expresses their mixed heritage, he's never bothered by Fanule's different nature. He offers his love to him (and then his help) dismissing his worries and embracing his lover's cause as if it were his own. He tends to him with a tender care that wins you over.
The setting is awesome and it revolves around a Circus where bad things are happening. Fanule is determined to uncover the misdeeds of the Circus' owner and those of the mayor that's supporting the unlawful incarceration and persecution of the Mongrels. In his mission he is helped by Clancy, a powerful vampire, and Simon, a Pure bounty-hunter who decides to support the Mongrels. Clancy and Simon have frequent trysts and their relationship is very entertaining and funny in places. The world where the characters live is full of magic and you get to know it page by page, information is never dumped on the readers and you find yourself immersed in it without realizing it's happening.
This book is recommended to anyone, but especially to those who like steampunk novels. I finished the book yesterday and I'm still thinking about it, I'm keeping Fanule right here with me. I love you Fanule, really.
Will Marchman (William for Fanule) is the other half. He is a nice young man, maybe a little naive, but he is courageous and deceivingly strong, the perfect match for Fanule. Will is a Pure, 100% human, and in a world where Mongrels are treated as outcasts and branded with a ratio that expresses their mixed heritage, he's never bothered by Fanule's different nature. He offers his love to him (and then his help) dismissing his worries and embracing his lover's cause as if it were his own. He tends to him with a tender care that wins you over.
The setting is awesome and it revolves around a Circus where bad things are happening. Fanule is determined to uncover the misdeeds of the Circus' owner and those of the mayor that's supporting the unlawful incarceration and persecution of the Mongrels. In his mission he is helped by Clancy, a powerful vampire, and Simon, a Pure bounty-hunter who decides to support the Mongrels. Clancy and Simon have frequent trysts and their relationship is very entertaining and funny in places. The world where the characters live is full of magic and you get to know it page by page, information is never dumped on the readers and you find yourself immersed in it without realizing it's happening.
This book is recommended to anyone, but especially to those who like steampunk novels. I finished the book yesterday and I'm still thinking about it, I'm keeping Fanule right here with me. I love you Fanule, really.
January 15, 2011
I want a Mongrel like Fanule!!!
nope.... he is not a dog... the is The Dog King... the Eminence of Taintwell... a light sucker... yes, he is a lot of things, and I fall in love with this amazing character!
Quick Overview
In an fiction place there is a distinct difference between the humankind: Pures and Mongrels. While Pures are the normal and powerless humans, Mongrels can have physical or another abnormality that made them be feared, hated and persecuted. In this strange and cruel reality a Mongrel, Fanule Perfidor, from the village of Taintwell will fall in love with a Pure human,Will Marchman from the city of Puriton. It's not a spoil... it's how this book starts, with both men meeting.
But it's not only a sweet romance
There is a lot of action, and certainly a great amount of fantastic beings. A very handsome vampire, Clancy Marrowbone, and another pure human, Simon Bentcross, will add more life to this story. Everyone will try to help Fanule... Mongrels are disappearing, and something very TERRIBLE is happening...
So you must know it's an amazing erotic/paranormal romance; but it's also a very good suspense.
The Steampunk aspect was another great aspect of this book!
"Steampunk is a sub-genre of science fiction, alternate history, and speculative fiction that came into prominence during the 1980s and early 1990s" (wikipedia definition).
I ADORE it... I'm a huge sci-fi fan so this book not only made me drool reading Fan and Will bed scenes
, made me almost scream of fear, but also made me very happy reading about the fictional machines.5 stars and it's a pity i read it so quickly! It's so good I'll read it again! One time is not enough!
BTW Fan has mismatching eyes! One violet and another green!
FanuleOMG I REALLY LOVED HIM!!!!
August 6, 2012
This could have been amazing!
I was really, really enjoying this book in the beginning. It was unique. It was dark. It was snarky. And I was really loving the world and the characters the author created. But then I got bored. It went from sexual tension to insta-love. And I never felt the urgency of the mystery. Where some things were detailed, others were glossed over and never explained. I was told about most of important events, instead of getting the chance to read about them.
I think this could have been amazing if it would have been longer and more developed. I feel like there was a huge opportunity for these characters to be memorable; but they aren't.
In the end, I was never fully invested in the romance or the mystery. But I loved the whole "idea"
I was really, really enjoying this book in the beginning. It was unique. It was dark. It was snarky. And I was really loving the world and the characters the author created. But then I got bored. It went from sexual tension to insta-love. And I never felt the urgency of the mystery. Where some things were detailed, others were glossed over and never explained. I was told about most of important events, instead of getting the chance to read about them.
I think this could have been amazing if it would have been longer and more developed. I feel like there was a huge opportunity for these characters to be memorable; but they aren't.
In the end, I was never fully invested in the romance or the mystery. But I loved the whole "idea"
July 24, 2014
Mongrel had been sitting, gathering dust on my Kindle for quite some time. The first time I tried to read it, I just wasn't in that mood. Having been chosen for me in the LGBT Fantasy Group challenge, and having just finished Third Daughter, an awesome (and diverse) non-Eurocentric steampunk novel, I was finally in the mood for something that stylistically reminded me the brilliant Michael Moorcock's 'Dancers At the End of Time'.
That is a VERY good thing.
I love books that dump me into an unfamiliar world and make me want to be there. The world of Mongrel did just that. While there were definitely parallels to a more middle-class/lower middle-class London, the towns with such amusing names as Taintwell and Purinton sound as if they could be actual English villages. In this world there are Pures--humans with no special powers and Mongrels--not fully human and with powers unknown. The Pures fear and discriminate against the Mongrels. No shock there, right? But it's far worse than mere laws as Fanule and Will discover. There's a even grimmer fate in store for the denizens of Taintwell.
Fanule Perfidor the Dog King, his friends/allies are finely drawn and feel like real people, not fantasy beings. Fan is a wonderful hero--loyal, loving and yet beset by his own personal demons. He doesn't dwell upon them and when his people need him, Fan takes great risk to lend his assistance. His power makes him the most feared of the Mongrels, which also makes him a target. It takes a certain something for me to like a vampire character, considering what most of fiction has reduced them to, but Clancy Marrowbone (wonderful name that) has joined The Fountain Pen Diva's highly exclusive pantheon of favourite undead, populated by such notables as Atta Olivia Clemens, The Count Saint Germain, Lord Akeldama, Sonja Blue and Shori (along with dear Lestat of course). And normally, I look askance at M/M romance in which one of the characters is slighter/shorter/weaker/etc. than the hero (that trope is quite problematic when done incorrectly), but Will Marchman was evenly crafted. He was just as strong and passionate as his half-human/half beast lover.
The steampunk world was gritty and grimy, which led to its sense of realism. The steam has to come from somewhere, coal. It's going to be dirty. The sex is sweet, hot and written in a wonderfully florid style reminiscent of Victorian erotica with a sort of tongue-firmly-in-cheek manner.
There are two other novels, which can be read alone, and I think I deserve a second helping of my darling Clancy Marrowbone.
That is a VERY good thing.
I love books that dump me into an unfamiliar world and make me want to be there. The world of Mongrel did just that. While there were definitely parallels to a more middle-class/lower middle-class London, the towns with such amusing names as Taintwell and Purinton sound as if they could be actual English villages. In this world there are Pures--humans with no special powers and Mongrels--not fully human and with powers unknown. The Pures fear and discriminate against the Mongrels. No shock there, right? But it's far worse than mere laws as Fanule and Will discover. There's a even grimmer fate in store for the denizens of Taintwell.
Fanule Perfidor the Dog King, his friends/allies are finely drawn and feel like real people, not fantasy beings. Fan is a wonderful hero--loyal, loving and yet beset by his own personal demons. He doesn't dwell upon them and when his people need him, Fan takes great risk to lend his assistance. His power makes him the most feared of the Mongrels, which also makes him a target. It takes a certain something for me to like a vampire character, considering what most of fiction has reduced them to, but Clancy Marrowbone (wonderful name that) has joined The Fountain Pen Diva's highly exclusive pantheon of favourite undead, populated by such notables as Atta Olivia Clemens, The Count Saint Germain, Lord Akeldama, Sonja Blue and Shori (along with dear Lestat of course). And normally, I look askance at M/M romance in which one of the characters is slighter/shorter/weaker/etc. than the hero (that trope is quite problematic when done incorrectly), but Will Marchman was evenly crafted. He was just as strong and passionate as his half-human/half beast lover.
The steampunk world was gritty and grimy, which led to its sense of realism. The steam has to come from somewhere, coal. It's going to be dirty. The sex is sweet, hot and written in a wonderfully florid style reminiscent of Victorian erotica with a sort of tongue-firmly-in-cheek manner.
There are two other novels, which can be read alone, and I think I deserve a second helping of my darling Clancy Marrowbone.
June 25, 2016
This was one of those amazingly descriptive books where you don't even feel like you are reading anymore. The world building was so well done. It's really hard to find a quality steam-punk themed story in general and in this genre specifically, but this one was perfect. So many sci-fi/steam-punk/fantasy books over do it with the world building so you get taken out of the story as you try and keep up with all the terminology, geography and characters. Or they are made so campy that you can't take it seriously at all. It should be fun, but not at the expense of the story.
The characters were strong and unique and the heroes were flawed but noble. They were complex enough to feel realistic. Fan and Will complimented each other well and brought out the best traits in one another. I really liked Simon too, he was just so lost really, but towards the end found his way and I can't wait to read the next in the series that focuses on him and Clancy. I think another thing that really added to the depth of the story overall was that while it was a romance between Fan and Will, it was also the building of some meaningful friendships amongst some really lonely characters.
And the language was completely swoon worthy. Not in a flowery romantic sense (although there was that too) but the names of the people and the places were perfectly fitting with the genre without being over the top. The descriptions of specific events as well as daily life painted a vivid picture of the story and I could totally 'see' every scene that was described.
One thing I would have liked developed a little more were the bad guys. I love a good bad guy and the whole conflict could have been a lot more intense and scary than it was. The villains didn't seem to put up too much of a fight at the end, but I enjoyed everything else so much I suspended disbelief completely and got over it.
Overall and a very unique story I would re-read and recommend!
The characters were strong and unique and the heroes were flawed but noble. They were complex enough to feel realistic. Fan and Will complimented each other well and brought out the best traits in one another. I really liked Simon too, he was just so lost really, but towards the end found his way and I can't wait to read the next in the series that focuses on him and Clancy. I think another thing that really added to the depth of the story overall was that while it was a romance between Fan and Will, it was also the building of some meaningful friendships amongst some really lonely characters.
And the language was completely swoon worthy. Not in a flowery romantic sense (although there was that too) but the names of the people and the places were perfectly fitting with the genre without being over the top. The descriptions of specific events as well as daily life painted a vivid picture of the story and I could totally 'see' every scene that was described.
One thing I would have liked developed a little more were the bad guys. I love a good bad guy and the whole conflict could have been a lot more intense and scary than it was. The villains didn't seem to put up too much of a fight at the end, but I enjoyed everything else so much I suspended disbelief completely and got over it.
Overall and a very unique story I would re-read and recommend!
November 13, 2011
I was completely surprised by how much I enjoyed this book (I haven't read too much steampunk). The imagination that went into this story and how beautifully Snow was able to translate that into words was amazing. I loved the world building and must admit there are a few new words to add to my vocabulary, these words only added to the tangibility of the world.
I am a sucker for vulnerable heroes and Perfidor had all the characteristics that I enjoy. He is such a full bodied character that adds to the intrigue of the story. The plot was interesting, exciting, and completely disturbing and I really think this story could have been longer to fully capture and complete all the details associated with the plot and world building. I was sad when it ended and so want to read more of this world in the future!
I am a sucker for vulnerable heroes and Perfidor had all the characteristics that I enjoy. He is such a full bodied character that adds to the intrigue of the story. The plot was interesting, exciting, and completely disturbing and I really think this story could have been longer to fully capture and complete all the details associated with the plot and world building. I was sad when it ended and so want to read more of this world in the future!
August 23, 2016
This story reels in the fantasy/steam-punk world; between residents of Taintwell (with their Branded Mongrels) and Purinton (with their pure humans).
Fanule Perfidor is the Eminence of Taintwell, The Dog King, and he is investigating the case of dissapearing mongrels and the whispers of injustice punishment for mongrels that are being caught. To get to this, Fanule needs to get information about Alphonse Hunzinger, the owner of Hunzinger's Mechanical Circus. He isn't welcome there, none of the Branded Mongrels are, but Fanule catches the sight of young William Marchman, a medicine salesman who works booth in the circus, and he takes his chances.
At first, Fanule only approaches the young man to ask for information. But when the two meets again in a bar, attraction cannot be denied, and an affair is born. Soon, William decides to help Fanule -- along with of a bounty hunter, Simon Bentcross, and a vampire, Clancy Marrowbone -- to uncover the sinister project of Alphonse and Purinton's mayor to getting rid of mongrels ...
------------------------------
This story reminds me of K.Z. Snow's Utopia-X series; in terms of vivid imagery of fantasy world and appealing characters. I start this a bit slowly, because it takes time for me to get into the realm of the story, but once I do, I find I cannot stop.
I must say I'm quite taken of sweet William -- he may portray innocence of the young but he also has the bravery of a soldier, loyalty of a knight, and love of the beloved. I adore him immensely. Fan is a remarkable character. He carries the baggage of all Taintwell citizens' hope for justice on his shoulder but he is still a fair man. Fan struggles with his mercurial moods and he needs potion to function. William's presence in his side becomes Fan's second wing that keeps him balanced.
The cast of Fanule's aids are charming: the vampire Clancy Marrowbone (who kind of reminds me of my favorite vampire in the Utopia-X series, oh dear Ridley) and his (surprisingly) human lover, Simon Bentcross ... though secondary but nonetheless alive on the pages and as important as Fan and William.
It's an intriguing romantic and well-crafted tale; another satisfaction.
Fanule Perfidor is the Eminence of Taintwell, The Dog King, and he is investigating the case of dissapearing mongrels and the whispers of injustice punishment for mongrels that are being caught. To get to this, Fanule needs to get information about Alphonse Hunzinger, the owner of Hunzinger's Mechanical Circus. He isn't welcome there, none of the Branded Mongrels are, but Fanule catches the sight of young William Marchman, a medicine salesman who works booth in the circus, and he takes his chances.
At first, Fanule only approaches the young man to ask for information. But when the two meets again in a bar, attraction cannot be denied, and an affair is born. Soon, William decides to help Fanule -- along with of a bounty hunter, Simon Bentcross, and a vampire, Clancy Marrowbone -- to uncover the sinister project of Alphonse and Purinton's mayor to getting rid of mongrels ...
------------------------------
This story reminds me of K.Z. Snow's Utopia-X series; in terms of vivid imagery of fantasy world and appealing characters. I start this a bit slowly, because it takes time for me to get into the realm of the story, but once I do, I find I cannot stop.
I must say I'm quite taken of sweet William -- he may portray innocence of the young but he also has the bravery of a soldier, loyalty of a knight, and love of the beloved. I adore him immensely. Fan is a remarkable character. He carries the baggage of all Taintwell citizens' hope for justice on his shoulder but he is still a fair man. Fan struggles with his mercurial moods and he needs potion to function. William's presence in his side becomes Fan's second wing that keeps him balanced.
The cast of Fanule's aids are charming: the vampire Clancy Marrowbone (who kind of reminds me of my favorite vampire in the Utopia-X series, oh dear Ridley) and his (surprisingly) human lover, Simon Bentcross ... though secondary but nonetheless alive on the pages and as important as Fan and William.
It's an intriguing romantic and well-crafted tale; another satisfaction.
June 27, 2019
This was a lot of fun. A mix of fantasy, paranormal, historical, steampunk. It defies genres by blending so many of them seamlessly. While the story took a little while to get into as figuring out all the different terminology and structure of the world was a complicated, nonetheless it was pure enjoyment.
I really enjoyed the relationship developing between William and Fan in spite of the insta-lovey nature of it. They were a good balance. I particularly liked that Fan wasn't perfect. His mongrel nature was interesting, but his nature didn't solve everything. He still deals with something akin to a bi-polar disorder. William is so patient and sweet, but tenacious as all get out.
The gothic style and creepy carnival were a wonderful backdrop for the mystery as our heroes struggled to figure out just what all was going on. Loads of fun and well worth the read. Definitely want to read more of this series.
I really enjoyed the relationship developing between William and Fan in spite of the insta-lovey nature of it. They were a good balance. I particularly liked that Fan wasn't perfect. His mongrel nature was interesting, but his nature didn't solve everything. He still deals with something akin to a bi-polar disorder. William is so patient and sweet, but tenacious as all get out.
The gothic style and creepy carnival were a wonderful backdrop for the mystery as our heroes struggled to figure out just what all was going on. Loads of fun and well worth the read. Definitely want to read more of this series.
May 5, 2016
I really wasn't sure about this when I started, and it's not without fault, but it is wonderful.
Kind of mildly steampunk, the world building is excellent, you have humans, mongrels (part human- part something else) and vampires. So far.
Unless mongrels are marked with the human/ other ratio they live in basically a ghetto..although it sounds a lot nicer than that.
Will, our human sells an elixir at a travelling fair, and meets Fan, the king of the mongrels..they are attracted to each other ad also start to uncover a dastardly plot which threatens mongrels.
Fan is fascinating, complex and rather beautiful, but like Will he craves love - so it's a definite romance, however the world building did it for me.
Loved it, luckily there is more !
Kind of mildly steampunk, the world building is excellent, you have humans, mongrels (part human- part something else) and vampires. So far.
Unless mongrels are marked with the human/ other ratio they live in basically a ghetto..although it sounds a lot nicer than that.
Will, our human sells an elixir at a travelling fair, and meets Fan, the king of the mongrels..they are attracted to each other ad also start to uncover a dastardly plot which threatens mongrels.
Fan is fascinating, complex and rather beautiful, but like Will he craves love - so it's a definite romance, however the world building did it for me.
Loved it, luckily there is more !
July 17, 2013
4.5 stars
Mongrel is a steam-punk fantasy about a world divided between the haves and the have nots
Human (pures) vs. Mongrel (tainted)
Puriton vs. Taintwell
the privileged vs. the shunned.
A romance fantasy with a theme of social injustice and discrimination running through it.
The story beginning is wonderfully done and Snow is in top form with her depiction of this world in full, rich Technicolor. She brings to life an oceanside boardwalk carny; a Mechanical Circus with its line of stalls manned by hawkers pushing their wares, and buildings housing steam-powered mechanisms to entertain. The Circus is the one bright spot in dreary Puriton, home to the human population.
“… the overdone facades… all strung together like a lineup of gaudy, aging whores. Colorful pennants snapped above their roofs… elaborate cornices and quatrefoil windows, little gargoyles… the permanent carnival that stretched along and beyond the boardwalk…”
Fanule… the Branded Mongrel, part human/part something else… he is mysterious and exotic and nobody’s mongrel. He has been elected Eminence of Taintwell, home to the Mongrel population. Fan has been chosen to represent and protect their interests. He has a troubled side though— has mood swings from euphoria to depression. He’s also as tough as he is vulnerable. He’s a captivating character with some very interesting friends: a randy vampire, Clancy Marrowbone, who has convenient teleportation skills, and the witch, Lizabetta, a revenant— murdered and dismembered— but existing in a spirit form, she’s a jumble of disjointed body parts that are given to floating about at random. Oh, and her equally dismembered cat, Lickshank, who is often preceded by his tail…
“… Lizabetta’s torso, draped in a simple chemise with drawstring neckline and scalloped hem, sat serenely on her sofa… (her) head, semi-translucent and wearing a happy smile, floated from a high shelf at the back of the room…”
Fanule and Clancy had a long-ago affair but when Fan meets Will Marchman, a comely snake-oil salesman at the Circus, he is quickly attracted. Theirs is a sensual, sweet love story, hot and yet somehow innocent. When Fan meets Will, he finally feels hope. I love that the two pursue a love affair despite public censure about humans “mixing” with Mongrels.
Snow is an adept storyteller— the opening chapters, so rich and thick with imagery, are a hard act to follow. There is certainly a lot to cram into a mere two-hundred pages and at times things felt a bit rushed. While they were wonderfully evil, I would have liked a little more detail about the no-good, bad guys. The threat would have seemed greater if those characters had been more fully drawn, especially towards the end. Still, Mongrel was a stylish, very enjoyable read and I look forward to more stories in this world. For this review and lots more please visit: The Blog of Sid Love
August 29, 2011
This was an interesting story with a unique, well-built world and truly fascinating characters. Fanule Perfidor is the leader of the mongrels, individuals who aren't full-bloodied human and are forced to have their human percentages tattooed on their necks. Fan is tall, has dark purple hair, two differently colored eyes, and suffers from bipolar disorder. He still suffers from some past trauma, but he's intense, dangerous, and just sex on legs. I loved him instantly. When Fan starts to suspect something sinister is happening to his people, he goes to Hunzinger's Mechanical circus and approaches a young peddler named Will. At first Will is reluctant to associate with Fan, even if he feels a certain fascination. And honestly, this character is so well-done, anybody would be enthralled.
Fanule makes a habit of having one-nighters in this world's equivalent of gay bars. One evening, he seduces young Will, and its clear to both of them right away that they've shared more than a night of physical pleasure. I appreciate that the author gave Will enough personality and depth that he isn't overshadowed by Fan's complexities. The supporting characters are treated just as equitably, and really add another dimension to the world. I loved Marrowbone, Fan's vampire ex-lover. Together, they decide to find out why branded mongrels are disappearing. It gets a bit gory over the course of their investigation. Will's relationship with Fan deepens, and its endearing to watch them grow from lovers to a couple who really care about, and would probably do anything for, each other. They really need the strength of their bond to carry them through some of the harder parts of their investigation. They grow to accept each other, scars and all, because neither is perfect.
I came very close to rating this book a five. The love story is beautiful and believable, the characters are almost perfect (perfectly written, not perfect people), the descriptions are gorgeous and the action is fast-paced and suspenseful. There were unfortunately some important details that got neglected, such as, what exactly ARE the mongrels? They're described as part human and part something else, but we're never given a clue as to what. Also, I felt some of the technology and gadgets deserved a little bit more of an explanation. It didn't bother me much though, because I cared so much about the characters and wanted to see them succeed. I can forgive almost anything when given characters this fascinating, and really there's not much to forgive here, just a few small details that might have added to my understanding of the world. With so much good, though, its easy to overlook the few, tiny faults. I really hope to see more of Fan, Will, and Marrowbone.
Fanule makes a habit of having one-nighters in this world's equivalent of gay bars. One evening, he seduces young Will, and its clear to both of them right away that they've shared more than a night of physical pleasure. I appreciate that the author gave Will enough personality and depth that he isn't overshadowed by Fan's complexities. The supporting characters are treated just as equitably, and really add another dimension to the world. I loved Marrowbone, Fan's vampire ex-lover. Together, they decide to find out why branded mongrels are disappearing. It gets a bit gory over the course of their investigation. Will's relationship with Fan deepens, and its endearing to watch them grow from lovers to a couple who really care about, and would probably do anything for, each other. They really need the strength of their bond to carry them through some of the harder parts of their investigation. They grow to accept each other, scars and all, because neither is perfect.
I came very close to rating this book a five. The love story is beautiful and believable, the characters are almost perfect (perfectly written, not perfect people), the descriptions are gorgeous and the action is fast-paced and suspenseful. There were unfortunately some important details that got neglected, such as, what exactly ARE the mongrels? They're described as part human and part something else, but we're never given a clue as to what. Also, I felt some of the technology and gadgets deserved a little bit more of an explanation. It didn't bother me much though, because I cared so much about the characters and wanted to see them succeed. I can forgive almost anything when given characters this fascinating, and really there's not much to forgive here, just a few small details that might have added to my understanding of the world. With so much good, though, its easy to overlook the few, tiny faults. I really hope to see more of Fan, Will, and Marrowbone.
August 23, 2011
Well, this is quite different and had me racing to the end and probably a look of horror on my face at time. I fear for KZ's mind at times. She comes up with some creepy weird stuff. 'Tis good. :-) Fanule, Fan, is a mongrel, which is part human part something, and they live in the equivalent of a ghetto. He has been elected their de facto leader and he knows something hinky is going on. Mongrels are disappearing and he feels it's got something to do with the mechanical circus. He goes there and engages Will, who sells patent medicine, to try and find information. He doesn't get much, however later in a bar he runs into Will and they spend the night together. Will is smitten (they both are) and eventually along with Will's ex-lover, a bounty hunter, and Fan's ex, a vampire, they work to find out what's going on. There is so much here it's hard to describe, but it was never too much. This is steam punk and I'm pretty illiterate in the steam punk world, but there was enough to give me an understanding without overwhelming me with details about how every little machine worked. I appreciated that. And wow, the bad guys were freaking creepy and it was rather disturbing what they were doing and planning to do and I was on the edge of my seat for the big show-down. I loved Will and Fan and how they were both sort of stunned by finding someone to love. It was also nice not to see a "perfect" hero as Fan suffers from bi-polar disorder. I'd love to tell all about the supporting characters and how some parts made my heart break a little, and it seems like "All that in 200 pages? Too much no?" But it wasn't. It all fit perfectly. Can't believe took me so long to read it.
November 24, 2011
4.5 stars
I forgot how fabulous this book is, how magnificent are the characters. The world building pulls you in, the characters charm you and you can't help but feel for them. Fan, the Eminence of Taintwell, the Dog King, the manic-depressive Mongrel, is larger than life, huge, dangerous looking, yet gentle and noble. Will, young salesman, was also lovely - naive, yet courageous, ready to learn and aid those who are wronged and those who he cares about. They couldn't have been more different and they were beautiful together. Their love was sweet and thoroughly satisfying. And Marrowbone?! You have to love a vampire with a sense of humor, prepared to help the innocent and eat the bad guys. As much as I loved Fanule and Will, I adored him - he is definitely my favorite character. Simon and Lizabetta (dismembered ghost - witch!) and a number of other secondary characters were colorful and interesting as well.
The writing was vivid and rich, perfect for the story. The plot was dark, occasionally lightened by a well-placed humor and gentle love scenes. I wanted to know more about the origin of Mongrels and world at large - outside Purinton and Taintwell - and that is the only reason why I didn't give the book the highest rating. Still, this book is a class for itself in this genre. Whether you like fantasy or steampunk or not, read this! Highly, highly recommended.
Oh, and sequel would be highly appreciated. ^^
I forgot how fabulous this book is, how magnificent are the characters. The world building pulls you in, the characters charm you and you can't help but feel for them. Fan, the Eminence of Taintwell, the Dog King, the manic-depressive Mongrel, is larger than life, huge, dangerous looking, yet gentle and noble. Will, young salesman, was also lovely - naive, yet courageous, ready to learn and aid those who are wronged and those who he cares about. They couldn't have been more different and they were beautiful together. Their love was sweet and thoroughly satisfying. And Marrowbone?! You have to love a vampire with a sense of humor, prepared to help the innocent and eat the bad guys. As much as I loved Fanule and Will, I adored him - he is definitely my favorite character. Simon and Lizabetta (dismembered ghost - witch!) and a number of other secondary characters were colorful and interesting as well.
The writing was vivid and rich, perfect for the story. The plot was dark, occasionally lightened by a well-placed humor and gentle love scenes. I wanted to know more about the origin of Mongrels and world at large - outside Purinton and Taintwell - and that is the only reason why I didn't give the book the highest rating. Still, this book is a class for itself in this genre. Whether you like fantasy or steampunk or not, read this! Highly, highly recommended.
Oh, and sequel would be highly appreciated. ^^
November 29, 2022
I admit I put off reading this one because it was steam-punk. I've not really been able to read the genre because too often the language is to heavy or the descriptions over done. I loved this one. I followed along fairly well. The descriptions of Fanule's illness in terms of the world of steam-punk were well done. Who wouldn't love Fanule with his selfless behavior that he hides so well. Will is the perfect foil for the man. Will's ignorance at the beginning really shows how some people just need to be educated to realize how stupid bigotry is in all it's forms. Great descriptions and characterizations.
October 28, 2014
A highly creative m/m romance set in a steampunk world! Special kudos to the author for such wonderful word choices that helped to define a rather dark and misty setting. "Echoes of their movement clotted the street. Firelight from garbage burning in steel drums chewed holes in the darkness." Just an example, there are hundreds more like it. I enjoyed every minute of reading about Fanuel Perfidor, the Dog King and his lover William. Great match, great romance. An interesting supporting cast including a vampire added depth and flavor to the story.
Not to be missed.
Not to be missed.
December 2, 2011
2.5 rounded up because of the characters.
A good example of what happens when you bite more than you know you can chew. I've gotten a couple of steampunk books under my belt to test the waters and really enjoyed them. Mongrel gave my brain a painful challenge and a reminder not to always dive in head first. Loved the characters and liked the story well enough, navigating this world and keeping track of names was a bit more than I could handle.
A good example of what happens when you bite more than you know you can chew. I've gotten a couple of steampunk books under my belt to test the waters and really enjoyed them. Mongrel gave my brain a painful challenge and a reminder not to always dive in head first. Loved the characters and liked the story well enough, navigating this world and keeping track of names was a bit more than I could handle.
November 30, 2022
I'll start by saying that this is one of my least favorite genres so 3 stars is actually a great rating. It means I managed to finish and was entertained. This was a dark, historical steampunk about Fan, a half-breed or mongrel, and Will, a potion seller at the mechanical circus. It was both a love story and a mystery, probably evenly divided between the two. Decent smexing, nothing crazy. I may actually have to read the next one to find out what happens with Clancy and Simon. *gasp*
Want to read
July 18, 2013If you missed this as a freebie, it is currently on sale at Dreamspinner press for $3.00 (50% off!). 7/18/13!
http://www.dreamspinnerpress.com/stor...
http://www.dreamspinnerpress.com/stor...
October 14, 2011
It was a nice story! It left me with a smile on my face after reading the last lines with Will catching the ribbons from the air! I think that sweet ending gave it a 3 star rating.
Don't know why, but I couldn't really connect with the characters. The plot was interesting enough, making it a good read but although I liked Fan and Will, I was not emotionally invested in how their story developed. And, like other members commented, there were a number of original elements introduced in the story that never led anywhere.
Overall, the story has the ingredients of a good telling. But personally, I needed a bit more to really love the book.
Don't know why, but I couldn't really connect with the characters. The plot was interesting enough, making it a good read but although I liked Fan and Will, I was not emotionally invested in how their story developed. And, like other members commented, there were a number of original elements introduced in the story that never led anywhere.
Overall, the story has the ingredients of a good telling. But personally, I needed a bit more to really love the book.
March 12, 2011
Although I had a general idea as to what Steampunk is, this was the first book in that genre I've read. I must say, I was positively surprised. This book blended steampunk with fantasy, paranormal and mystery in a most pleasing way. Add to the mix a wonderful, sweet and loving romance between two very different men and a most colorful secondary cast, and I was hooked.
I could only marvel at this author's imagination. Lizzy the disembodied witch (and don't forget the cat!), Marrowbone the fastidious vampire, Simon the considerate bounty hunter - wonderful figments of a quirky, vivid imagination, they captured me and helped me pull into a dark, at times disturbing foreign universe. I really liked this book despite the macabre elements which had me swallow hard occasionally. Highly recommended.
I could only marvel at this author's imagination. Lizzy the disembodied witch (and don't forget the cat!), Marrowbone the fastidious vampire, Simon the considerate bounty hunter - wonderful figments of a quirky, vivid imagination, they captured me and helped me pull into a dark, at times disturbing foreign universe. I really liked this book despite the macabre elements which had me swallow hard occasionally. Highly recommended.
November 17, 2011
Wow. This book has it all – memorable characters, a richly textured atmosphere, a gruesome mystery, sexy romance and wicked humor – all wrapped in an urban fantasy/steampunk ribbon.
HIGHLY RECOMMENDED.
HIGHLY RECOMMENDED.
Want to read
July 14, 2013Currently free on Dreamspinners for one hour only 11:15A-12:15P EST!!! 7/14/13
June 3, 2017
4.1 Stars
Okay, this was a whole lot better than I was expecting. As I've mentioned before, Steampunk is a very dicey genre for me...throw in a paranormal element and it's even more questionable whether I will like it. (I prefer the science-y based Steampunk.) But give it some really interesting, dark and complicated characters? Yeah, that can transcend (?) (surpass? out-pace? IDK) just about any qualms I might have. (Never thought how how it would be to find a word that replaces the one I needed - that unfortunately includes Cheetolini's name.)
So, this is an easy read but don't let that fool you; there's some sneaky social commentary in there as well if you stretch the analogy to modern day oppressed & disaffected peoples. I'm actually quite interested in the next installment; I'd love to see if the demands put forth by Will & Fan to halt the capture, torture and mutilation of "Mongrels" by the "justice system" of Purinton are met...and if it makes any difference in how those "Mongrels" are treated as a whole. Also, I think those captured "Mongrels" from Taintwell were freed before the destruction of the administration building, but I know they were being held in more than one location. Did they all get free? (I hope there's an installment that details one of those prisoners return to freedom, especially how such an ordeal affected him/her.)
Okay, this was a whole lot better than I was expecting. As I've mentioned before, Steampunk is a very dicey genre for me...throw in a paranormal element and it's even more questionable whether I will like it. (I prefer the science-y based Steampunk.) But give it some really interesting, dark and complicated characters? Yeah, that can transcend (?) (surpass? out-pace? IDK) just about any qualms I might have. (Never thought how how it would be to find a word that replaces the one I needed - that unfortunately includes Cheetolini's name.)
So, this is an easy read but don't let that fool you; there's some sneaky social commentary in there as well if you stretch the analogy to modern day oppressed & disaffected peoples. I'm actually quite interested in the next installment; I'd love to see if the demands put forth by Will & Fan to halt the capture, torture and mutilation of "Mongrels" by the "justice system" of Purinton are met...and if it makes any difference in how those "Mongrels" are treated as a whole. Also, I think those captured "Mongrels" from Taintwell were freed before the destruction of the administration building, but I know they were being held in more than one location. Did they all get free? (I hope there's an installment that details one of those prisoners return to freedom, especially how such an ordeal affected him/her.)
February 11, 2013
3.5 stars – An interesting and enjoyable m/m steampunk fantasy romance. Fanule Perfidor is the community-appointed leader of a village ghetto of “mongrels,” mutated beings that are forced to be branded, and whose rights are limited by the overseeing city-state. Suspicious of a greater conspiracy against the mongrel community, Fan begins investigating the local “mechanical circus” and attempts to glean information from Will, a young medicine seller working there. Their meeting (and underlying attraction) propel the story forward as they discover the dark dealings behind recent mongrel arrests, as well as find in each other a deeper intimacy neither was expecting.
What I liked: Snow did a neat job on all the steampunk details that color the story, making it a very imaginative read. I also dug the sweet chemistry developing between Fan and Will as they found themselves unable to fight the attraction between them. Both characters are very appealing, and I appreciated how they stubbornly sought out the other. Will’s ability to also see past Fan’s manic illness that would at times strike him down to deep lows or fevered highs was also a nice touch that added some deeper layers of acceptance and love to their relationship.
What was harder for me: I think going through the story I started developing some expectations that were not fully played out. I was personally hoping for a more exciting and drawn out climax. The way the author ended the story was nice, but I think I was just hoping for a little *more*, more story, or more excitement, or more inclusion of the mongrel's powers (especially Fan's), or more...something.
The side characters were interesting, including a very handy vampire and a local bounty hunter, but at times I found them distracting to the story, and the vampire character has almost a “too powerful” aura, in that deus ex machine kind of way that he could just fix things if he wanted to. At times I felt there were two warring factions inside the story, the struggle and growing love story between Fan and Will, and the side characters who seemed to shoot to the forefront as if they were photobombing the narrative.
For a more personal reader issue: my vote also would be to retire or lessen the use of the word “lover” which seemed at times overused. (e.g. “He looked towards his lover,” etc.) It’s a word that can have the unhappy effect of distracting and distancing, similar to using nouns instead of pronouns to describe a character. If that's something that doesn't normally sway you though, then you'll be fine.
Overall though, it’s a fun, creative story with very appealing MCs whose sweet, romantic relationship was nice to read about. If you’re looking for something fantastical in your m/m reading, especially something more steampunk, this may be right up your alley. It’s definitely a great addition to the m/m steampunk list.
What I liked: Snow did a neat job on all the steampunk details that color the story, making it a very imaginative read. I also dug the sweet chemistry developing between Fan and Will as they found themselves unable to fight the attraction between them. Both characters are very appealing, and I appreciated how they stubbornly sought out the other. Will’s ability to also see past Fan’s manic illness that would at times strike him down to deep lows or fevered highs was also a nice touch that added some deeper layers of acceptance and love to their relationship.
What was harder for me: I think going through the story I started developing some expectations that were not fully played out. I was personally hoping for a more exciting and drawn out climax. The way the author ended the story was nice, but I think I was just hoping for a little *more*, more story, or more excitement, or more inclusion of the mongrel's powers (especially Fan's), or more...something.
The side characters were interesting, including a very handy vampire and a local bounty hunter, but at times I found them distracting to the story, and the vampire character has almost a “too powerful” aura, in that deus ex machine kind of way that he could just fix things if he wanted to. At times I felt there were two warring factions inside the story, the struggle and growing love story between Fan and Will, and the side characters who seemed to shoot to the forefront as if they were photobombing the narrative.
For a more personal reader issue: my vote also would be to retire or lessen the use of the word “lover” which seemed at times overused. (e.g. “He looked towards his lover,” etc.) It’s a word that can have the unhappy effect of distracting and distancing, similar to using nouns instead of pronouns to describe a character. If that's something that doesn't normally sway you though, then you'll be fine.
Overall though, it’s a fun, creative story with very appealing MCs whose sweet, romantic relationship was nice to read about. If you’re looking for something fantastical in your m/m reading, especially something more steampunk, this may be right up your alley. It’s definitely a great addition to the m/m steampunk list.
January 18, 2012
What a marvelous book! K.Z. Snow drops you into the weirdly wonderful world of Steampunk, in Mongrel. Because I'm not familiar with the Steampunk genre, I found it a bit difficult at the beginning to fully immerse myself in that world. Some of the contraptions mentioned in the book lacked detailed descriptions, which I found difficult at first. What exactly is an aeropod or a voxbox? But that lack of description eventually allowed my inner-child's imagination to kicked in and create the images for me. What a pleasure to re-connect with my younger self's very vivid imagination where the most fantastical creations are possible. (Thank you for that, Ms. Snow!)
The main characters are multi-layered and interesting. Fanuale Perfidor, a Branded Mongel, is intense, caring and principled, taking upon his shoulders the duty to protect his fellow Mongrels from increasing persecution. He also suffers from what appears to be a bi-polar disorder, adding to the difficulty in performing his duties as the Eminence of Taintwell.
Will Marchman, a pure human, makes his living as a pitchman for a patent medicine at Hunzinger's Mechanical Circus. Sweet William is young and naive but with a brave and caring heart.
The secondary characters of Clancy Marrowbone, a vampire, and Simon Bentcross, a bounty hunter, are just as interesting. I would especially like to learn more of Marrowbone's backstory.
Fan and Will's relationship develops and grows as, together, they try to solve the mystery around the disappearance of an increasing number of branded mongrels. The more they learn, the more horrible the implications.
I would heartily encourage everyone to read this charmingly romantic and well-crafted book.
*Book won @ http://www.stumblingoverchaos.com/ thanks to Chris and K.Z. Snow!*
The main characters are multi-layered and interesting. Fanuale Perfidor, a Branded Mongel, is intense, caring and principled, taking upon his shoulders the duty to protect his fellow Mongrels from increasing persecution. He also suffers from what appears to be a bi-polar disorder, adding to the difficulty in performing his duties as the Eminence of Taintwell.
Will Marchman, a pure human, makes his living as a pitchman for a patent medicine at Hunzinger's Mechanical Circus. Sweet William is young and naive but with a brave and caring heart.
The secondary characters of Clancy Marrowbone, a vampire, and Simon Bentcross, a bounty hunter, are just as interesting. I would especially like to learn more of Marrowbone's backstory.
Fan and Will's relationship develops and grows as, together, they try to solve the mystery around the disappearance of an increasing number of branded mongrels. The more they learn, the more horrible the implications.
I would heartily encourage everyone to read this charmingly romantic and well-crafted book.
*Book won @ http://www.stumblingoverchaos.com/ thanks to Chris and K.Z. Snow!*
August 20, 2011
I seem to love K.Z. Snow’s books as a general rule. I honestly started reading this one to satisfy the steampunk category in one of my reading challenges and not because I love the sub-genre. I shouldn’t be surprised, however, that I ended up really liking this book. I’m finding that if an author is great, they can totally make me forget about my lack of enthusiasm with a particular type of character, situation or genre. This author is definitely great!
I was really swept away by the depth of creativity and characters depicted in this story. The sheer brilliance in coming up with the details of this world was astounding; for example, the names of the towns – Purinton to represent the “pure” humans and Taintwell to represent the “tainted” Mongrels! This is a story all about the injustice of bigotry against those who are “different”, but how they prevail over those who make a mockery of being “pure”. I thought the mystery elements of the story were very well done and created enough angst that I was worrying about “oh no, what if…”.
Fanule and William are incredibly good together in this story, but it’s Fanule who tends to really stand out. He’s not portrayed as some perfect leader, but instead as someone who’s real and comes with a few warts (prior physical abuse and what appears to be a bipolar disorder). William may be the younger of the two, but he has his own inner strength as well as a very caring soul. Together with a cast of very intriguing secondary characters, you’ll love getting to know each of them and all of their quirky nuances.
Be brave and give this one a try even if you think it’s not your usual thing. You might be as surprised as I was by how much you enjoy it!!
I was really swept away by the depth of creativity and characters depicted in this story. The sheer brilliance in coming up with the details of this world was astounding; for example, the names of the towns – Purinton to represent the “pure” humans and Taintwell to represent the “tainted” Mongrels! This is a story all about the injustice of bigotry against those who are “different”, but how they prevail over those who make a mockery of being “pure”. I thought the mystery elements of the story were very well done and created enough angst that I was worrying about “oh no, what if…”.
Fanule and William are incredibly good together in this story, but it’s Fanule who tends to really stand out. He’s not portrayed as some perfect leader, but instead as someone who’s real and comes with a few warts (prior physical abuse and what appears to be a bipolar disorder). William may be the younger of the two, but he has his own inner strength as well as a very caring soul. Together with a cast of very intriguing secondary characters, you’ll love getting to know each of them and all of their quirky nuances.
Be brave and give this one a try even if you think it’s not your usual thing. You might be as surprised as I was by how much you enjoy it!!
October 3, 2015
5 stars
I loved the complex characters, for example, how Simon wasn't black and white, nor was Marrowbone. Fan was definitely intriguing and a unique character, and Will was adorable. I could completely picture him in my mind. The sympathetic way mental illness was handled really impressed me. Although bipolar doesn't work that way--cycling is over months usually, except sometimes in children--it was necessary for the storyline and was done really well. The herbs used are all actually ones said to work for depression, although obviously they aren't Prozac. It was realistic and therefore excellent how the tincture helped but didn't cure or work all the time.
The world building was impressive. I don't usually like Steampunk so I don't have a wide knowledge base, but this world was quite different than the others I've read. I wish we learned more about what the different races of the mongrels actually were. The new take on vampires was interesting. New isn't probably the right word, but how the vampire fits into the story is a little different.
The plot was good and kept me hanging on despite my dislike for historical-like stories. But then, I've been reevaluating my opinions on those, too, since I've read a bunch of really good ones recently. I still hate the level of homophobia, though, where the characters could be killed by the government if caught. It is so difficult to read about. I am eager to read the next book in the series. Hopefully we'll learn more about their world.
I loved the complex characters, for example, how Simon wasn't black and white, nor was Marrowbone. Fan was definitely intriguing and a unique character, and Will was adorable. I could completely picture him in my mind. The sympathetic way mental illness was handled really impressed me. Although bipolar doesn't work that way--cycling is over months usually, except sometimes in children--it was necessary for the storyline and was done really well. The herbs used are all actually ones said to work for depression, although obviously they aren't Prozac. It was realistic and therefore excellent how the tincture helped but didn't cure or work all the time.
The world building was impressive. I don't usually like Steampunk so I don't have a wide knowledge base, but this world was quite different than the others I've read. I wish we learned more about what the different races of the mongrels actually were. The new take on vampires was interesting. New isn't probably the right word, but how the vampire fits into the story is a little different.
The plot was good and kept me hanging on despite my dislike for historical-like stories. But then, I've been reevaluating my opinions on those, too, since I've read a bunch of really good ones recently. I still hate the level of homophobia, though, where the characters could be killed by the government if caught. It is so difficult to read about. I am eager to read the next book in the series. Hopefully we'll learn more about their world.
March 14, 2021
Fantastic steampunk paranormal start to the Mongrel series where society is segregated into the 'pures' (i.e. 100 percentile human) living in the Dickensian-named town of Purinton and the 'undesirables' (i.e. mongrels - of mixed paranormal-human ancestry with/without special powers) - who are banished/relegated to the adjacent Taintwell settlement. Legal and commercial power is also of course held by the 'pures' but something darker and more dreadful is happening underground to Taintwell residents who've been arrested and/or disappeared - there's .
I loved the atmosphere and world-building set up by the author in additional to a host of interesting and fantastic characters. MC Will reeks of innocence and gentleness in contrast to the older and more broken/tormented Fanule ... but my personal favorites are Simon and Clancy so I'm definitely looking forward to the next book in the series (where they get to star). 4 solid stars for an very enjoyable read.
I loved the atmosphere and world-building set up by the author in additional to a host of interesting and fantastic characters. MC Will reeks of innocence and gentleness in contrast to the older and more broken/tormented Fanule ... but my personal favorites are Simon and Clancy so I'm definitely looking forward to the next book in the series (where they get to star). 4 solid stars for an very enjoyable read.
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