Every time I finish a book in this series I never quite know how to feel. But I keep reading them, so clearly something appeals. Overall, I would recommend the series as a whole and this book continues building the magic of the worlds (or worlds in this case).

I really enjoyed the introduction of Catherine’s character, I think she is a great balance to Irene’s intensity, which often rubs me the wrong way. I think the reader needed a little more review of past characters and experiences that came back since it has been multiple books and years since reading those stories. I was kind of hopeful at the end that some of the open storylines would start tying up into nice bows so that someone can finally have a happy ending. Also, I would appreciate giving Kai a slightly less cringey title than “lover”.

I had the opportunity to read and review this ARC from NetGalley.

This has been a really fun series to read so far. I really enjoyed the steampunk vibe and mad science bits in this volume. Our old friends are all back along with a entertaining array of foes. Plots are schemed and secrets are teased!
I don’t have a good sense from this one how many more books there will be in the series but I’m enjoying the ride and am happy this isn’t the end of the series yet!

This book is dedicated to librarians and I FEEL IT. <3

***

Irene continues to be my literary role model with her quick thinking, intense bravery, and stoic wit. She is remarkably unruffleable for someone who is frequently an assassination target.

The book begins with violent shenanigans that erupt while Irene and Vale are out on a shouldn't-be-especially-dangerous adventure. In her escape, Irene discovers an unexpected and magical door, which opens to reveal a surprised Lord Guantes. Irene is quite surprised, too, considering she killed him not too long ago.

Yet, there he is, looking a little rough around the edges, but remarkably sharp for a zombie.

Much more violent shenanigans ensue. Spectacular escapes. Verbal sparring and fisticuffs. If Vale is fulfilling a Sherlock archetype, his Moriarty is emerging.

And of course, Irene, Kai, and Vale now have Lord Silver's niece Catherine tagging along as an apprentice. New characters into established series can be a gamble, but I'm looking forward to Catherine's contributions.

Overall, this adventure was another engrossing read with new and old characters and villains, and a big reveal at the end that helps propel the plot forward.

If you're not reading this series, you're missing out.