The Girl with the Iron Touch (The Steampunk Chronicles)
The Steampunk Chronicles return to Victorian London after a journey to New York City, with our team of paranormal adventurers grown older, wiser, sadder (in the case of American cowboy Jasper), and more firmly coupled. Finley and Griffin, Duke of Greythorne, are breathlessly close to consummating their relationship, while mechanical genius Emily and ruggedly handsome Sam are clearly an item as well. The plot and subplots include an automaton of Queen Victoria, the evil genius known as the Machinist, and a not-human-but-not-wholly-machine automaton in Emily’s likeness. Classic steampunk elements abound as do classic romance clichés, including fantastical airships and submarines; dandified crime lords; plentiful clothing descriptions; and hard biceps and “trembling excitement.” Hardcore steampunk fans may object to the formulaic romance writing, and as the third in the series, this title won’t quite stand alone. However, romance-loving steampunkers new to the series may go back to the first two titles to catch up on the action-packed adventures. Grades 10-12. --Debbie Carton