Two of my favorite genres, clean mysteries and steampunk, magically meld in The Clockwork City, and I am so here for it! This novel is oozing charm and imagination and has been so fun to read! I love a good mystery, and when you add steampunk it takes things to a whole other level.

At the beginning of the novel we find Lady Georgia Burnel emerging from her year of mourning, after the death of her abusive husband, and she is ready for rest and relaxation. With her Aunt Millie, Georgia embarks on an Italian getaway that ends up being anything but relaxing. There are a lot of names thrown at you at the beginning of the story, making the start a bit mirky, but the narrative flows so naturally that it’s not long before you’re completely immersed in this world, seeing it all through the eyes of these multifaceted characters.

The overall pace is brisk, but has a certain lightness to it, though there is a darkness that lingers just below the surface. All of the characters are great, but Cora and Marcus, the two adolescents who aid in the sleuthing, bring a sweetness that won me over. I wasn’t sure how I felt about Mr. Seacombe when he was first introduced, but as the story went on, and he continued to offer his quiet strength to Georgia and Millie, I found myself enjoying his Texican charm. Georgia and Millie were marvelous, and are the perfect pair that compliment one another nicely.

I’m not normally one for stories of fantasy, but there is something about steampunk that vibes with me. I love the uniqueness this genre brings, especially in details of the town, and the kraken. There is so much imagination that really brings a unique facet to an otherwise ordinary mystery.

This novel kicks off the new Lady Georgia Burnel Mysteries series and I am so excited to see what adventures Georgia will embark on next! The tinge of romance, the support of friendship, and the thirst to find the truth makes for quite an enjoyable read.

*I have voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book which I received from the author/publisher through JustRead Tours. All views and opinions expressed are completely honest, and my own. ( )

Shelley Adina is quickly becoming a go to author for fun, clean steampunk adventures! This delightful mystery completely pulled me in and had me quickly turning the pages. It’s a fantastic introduction to a new series I’m looking forward to reading more of.

Lady Georgia Brunel is finally free after a year of mourning her abusive husband’s death. She and his aunt Millicent who has become her friend and traveling companion embark on a painting holiday in Venice. At the opening of the art exhibition, Georgia dances with the persistent but married ambassador Lord Somersby and meets his lovely young daughter, Cora. When he’s found dead on the water stairs of her villa, she and Millie are determined to discover the mystery behind his death, especially when the authorities want to quickly brush it aside.

There’s also danger surrounding Lord Somersby’s daughter Cora. When Georgia & Millie take her in while they try to reach her mother, they become targets. Working with a handsome, charming Texican Ranger Dustin Seacombe, whom Lady Brunel met at the gala, the team braves all sorts of dangers including the deadly kraken that surround the city of Venice as they try to solve the mystery behind a dastardly plot.

It’s a fast-paced delightful mystery that kept me thoroughly engaged. I enjoyed all of the characters including the two precocious children who assist in the mystery. Georgia and Millie are intelligent, witty heroines and I look forward to reading more of their adventures. Dustin Seacombe is the kind of lovable roguish hero who lends a bit of romance to the story. I’m excited to see future interactions between him and Georgia. The steampunk aspects were fun and I loved the kraken! It’s a clean steampunk adventure with a hint of romance that’s perfect for teens and adults. I received an advanced complimentary copy from the author. All opinions are my own & voluntarily given. ( )