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The Glorious Victorious Darcys #2
His Clockwork Canary
For ambitious engineer Simon Darcy, winning Queen Victoria’s competition to recover lost inventions of historical significance is a matter of pride—and redemption. After all, it was Simon’s failed monorail project that left his family destitute, and winning the tournament would surely restore the Darcys’ reputation.
Simon sets his sights high, targeting no less than the infamous time-travel device that forever changed the world by transporting scientists, engineers, and artists from the twentieth century. The Mod technology was banned and supposedly destroyed, but Simon is sure he can re-create it.
His daring plan draws the attention of Willie G., the Clockwork Canary, London’s sensationalist reporter. Simon soon discovers that Willie is a male guise for Wilhemina Goodenough, the love of his youth, who left him jilted and bitter. He questions her motives even as he falls prey to her unique charm. As the attraction between the two reignites, Simon realizes that this vixen from his past has secrets that could be the key to his future…as long as he can put their history behind him.
Simon sets his sights high, targeting no less than the infamous time-travel device that forever changed the world by transporting scientists, engineers, and artists from the twentieth century. The Mod technology was banned and supposedly destroyed, but Simon is sure he can re-create it.
His daring plan draws the attention of Willie G., the Clockwork Canary, London’s sensationalist reporter. Simon soon discovers that Willie is a male guise for Wilhemina Goodenough, the love of his youth, who left him jilted and bitter. He questions her motives even as he falls prey to her unique charm. As the attraction between the two reignites, Simon realizes that this vixen from his past has secrets that could be the key to his future…as long as he can put their history behind him.
324 pages, Paperback
First published January 1, 2013
15 people are currently reading
760 people want to read
About the author
Beth Ciotta
40 books469 followersStorytelling comes naturally to award-winning author Beth Ciotta. Limiting herself to one sub-genre does not. Dubbed “fun and sexy” by Publisher’s Weekly, Beth specializes in writing Romantic Comedy with a Twist of Suspense and is published in contemporary, historical, and paranormal romantic fiction. “I can’t think of anything more fulfilling than writing stories where everyone (except the villain, of course) gets a happy ending!”
Beth lives in New Jersey with her husband, two zany dogs, and one crazy cat. Although writing takes up most of her time, she still performs occasionally as a singer, character actress, emcee, and storyteller. To support literacy, Beth also works at her local library.
To learn more about her chaotic life you can visit her Web site at www.bethciotta.com
Beth lives in New Jersey with her husband, two zany dogs, and one crazy cat. Although writing takes up most of her time, she still performs occasionally as a singer, character actress, emcee, and storyteller. To support literacy, Beth also works at her local library.
To learn more about her chaotic life you can visit her Web site at www.bethciotta.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 56 reviews
February 16, 2015
4.5 Awesome Stars!
Wow!
So okay. I have to admit. His Clockwork Canary was the very first Steampunk novel I have ever read. I own a copy of one I bought recently but have not had a chance to crack it open, so I was so excited to get a copy of this one from the tour for the review because I absolutely loved it!
I had a hard time putting this one down. I liked Simon from the first page that he was introduced to me. He was ambitions character with a lot of heart that had me pulling a smile every few pages. After his failed monorail project that left his family in crumbling reputation, Simon welcomes the competition set up by Queen Victoria to recover lost inventions of historical significance, the last thing he expected was for his plans to draw attention of Willie G, the Clockwork Canary - a 'man' that reminds him a lot of Wilhemina Goodenough, a love from his youth that left him jilted. I couldn't help but giggled that Simon found it odd that he was attracted to the man until he figured out that Willie G is actually Mina. Even thought it didn't take long, their interaction left much to be desired and I found it amusing.
As Simon and Mina throw themselves into their adventure in search of a time traveling device that had forever changed the world, they are confronted by strange characters (Strangelove) and harboring secrets. I loved Mina and couldn't help and feel bad for her at times and the situation she got stuck with. The last thing Mina wanted was to follow Simon around or report a story about him that was going to get ruined anyway, but with her job on the line and a strange man by the name of Strangelove threatening her - she is left with little choice. Attraction reignites between the two and it is definitely felt between the pages!
Beth Ciotta knows how to tell a beautiful story was her amazing writing and beautiful writing. I was so glad for the glossary at the beginning of the book and took full advantage of it! It kept me coming back for a few chapters until I figured it out. I loved the romance in this book that is filled with adventure that kept me glued and turning the pages. I wanted to know everything about Mina and Simon and what had happened to them as both saw the situation from different perspectives. I really liked Mina's gift, and the mystery that lingers through the book. I couldn't help but wonder how it was all going to turn out.
Looking forward to more of the beautiful writing from Beth Ciotta and was she has in store for the Darcy's.
Wow!
So okay. I have to admit. His Clockwork Canary was the very first Steampunk novel I have ever read. I own a copy of one I bought recently but have not had a chance to crack it open, so I was so excited to get a copy of this one from the tour for the review because I absolutely loved it!
I had a hard time putting this one down. I liked Simon from the first page that he was introduced to me. He was ambitions character with a lot of heart that had me pulling a smile every few pages. After his failed monorail project that left his family in crumbling reputation, Simon welcomes the competition set up by Queen Victoria to recover lost inventions of historical significance, the last thing he expected was for his plans to draw attention of Willie G, the Clockwork Canary - a 'man' that reminds him a lot of Wilhemina Goodenough, a love from his youth that left him jilted. I couldn't help but giggled that Simon found it odd that he was attracted to the man until he figured out that Willie G is actually Mina. Even thought it didn't take long, their interaction left much to be desired and I found it amusing.
As Simon and Mina throw themselves into their adventure in search of a time traveling device that had forever changed the world, they are confronted by strange characters (Strangelove) and harboring secrets. I loved Mina and couldn't help and feel bad for her at times and the situation she got stuck with. The last thing Mina wanted was to follow Simon around or report a story about him that was going to get ruined anyway, but with her job on the line and a strange man by the name of Strangelove threatening her - she is left with little choice. Attraction reignites between the two and it is definitely felt between the pages!
Beth Ciotta knows how to tell a beautiful story was her amazing writing and beautiful writing. I was so glad for the glossary at the beginning of the book and took full advantage of it! It kept me coming back for a few chapters until I figured it out. I loved the romance in this book that is filled with adventure that kept me glued and turning the pages. I wanted to know everything about Mina and Simon and what had happened to them as both saw the situation from different perspectives. I really liked Mina's gift, and the mystery that lingers through the book. I couldn't help but wonder how it was all going to turn out.
Looking forward to more of the beautiful writing from Beth Ciotta and was she has in store for the Darcy's.
May 29, 2013
*** Free review copy provided by the author via Deborah Richardson
I commented on Facebook that I was drinking tea and reading a romance novel and that I should do something manly, like wrestle an alligator, before the guys found out. One of the guys replied — I wont tell anyone. This is one of those reviews that I preface with the comment that I don’t like romance books. Let’s just say that if all romance books were this good, I wouldn’t have to say that I usually don’t like romance books.
Sure, it has what you would expect from a romance novel, but unlike many of that ilk, it is a fun steampunk story. The characters were excellent, although I think that I would have benefited more from reading the first novel "Her Sky Cowboy: The Glorious Victorious Darcys". So many times, I’ve read something that seems to belong to the category of glue some "gears on it and call it steampunk." Ciotta’s story feels more like a steampunk story with some saucy romance glued on it.
Take full advantage of the Glossary at the front of the book, you will appreciate it. All I have to add is USS Enterprise and The Vulcan Grogshop…
Romance story … yes … and this middle-aged man enjoyed it. I’d recommend it for the steampunk enthusiasts and I think that it is a must-have for your steampunk home library. Guaran-damn-teed 4 1/2 stars out of 5.
I commented on Facebook that I was drinking tea and reading a romance novel and that I should do something manly, like wrestle an alligator, before the guys found out. One of the guys replied — I wont tell anyone. This is one of those reviews that I preface with the comment that I don’t like romance books. Let’s just say that if all romance books were this good, I wouldn’t have to say that I usually don’t like romance books.
Sure, it has what you would expect from a romance novel, but unlike many of that ilk, it is a fun steampunk story. The characters were excellent, although I think that I would have benefited more from reading the first novel "Her Sky Cowboy: The Glorious Victorious Darcys". So many times, I’ve read something that seems to belong to the category of glue some "gears on it and call it steampunk." Ciotta’s story feels more like a steampunk story with some saucy romance glued on it.
Take full advantage of the Glossary at the front of the book, you will appreciate it. All I have to add is USS Enterprise and The Vulcan Grogshop…
Romance story … yes … and this middle-aged man enjoyed it. I’d recommend it for the steampunk enthusiasts and I think that it is a must-have for your steampunk home library. Guaran-damn-teed 4 1/2 stars out of 5.
September 4, 2017
Oh kay.
Remember when I said I'd wait to pass judgement om some tropes in the first book until I've read the sequel? Well, here we go.
All in all it's better written than its predecessor, but recycling tropes and entire scenes from the previous book is a bit grating and... cheap. Granted, it's just one scene, but it could have been handled and written much neater.
And the tropes. Oh my god, save me from this jumble of Alpha male-possessive nonsense. I know it's supposed to be Victorian and that women are repressed, but seriously... Not sexy. And the ladies are despite their relative independence "admiring" and the men are "protective" and jealous.
The problems are just resolved far too quickly and easily. They just feel meaningless. Nothing changes and the cartoonishly evil bad guy (the only thing missing is moustache twirling) is not really engaging me to care about his plotting.
I wonder if the third time is the charm because Jules seems to be most reasonable of the Darcy siblings. I have to admit I'm curious.
Remember when I said I'd wait to pass judgement om some tropes in the first book until I've read the sequel? Well, here we go.
All in all it's better written than its predecessor, but recycling tropes and entire scenes from the previous book is a bit grating and... cheap. Granted, it's just one scene, but it could have been handled and written much neater.
And the tropes. Oh my god, save me from this jumble of Alpha male-possessive nonsense. I know it's supposed to be Victorian and that women are repressed, but seriously... Not sexy. And the ladies are despite their relative independence "admiring" and the men are "protective" and jealous.
The problems are just resolved far too quickly and easily. They just feel meaningless. Nothing changes and the cartoonishly evil bad guy (the only thing missing is moustache twirling) is not really engaging me to care about his plotting.
I wonder if the third time is the charm because Jules seems to be most reasonable of the Darcy siblings. I have to admit I'm curious.
February 1, 2014
Review courtesy of Dark Faerie Tales
Quick & Dirty: Too slow and I completely lost interest even though I’ve read over 67% of the book.
Opening Sentence: Since the day he’d been born (three and a half minutes later than his twin brother), Simon Darcy had been waging war with time.
The Review:
I have to regrettably inform you that His Clockwork Canary is the first book that I shall be adding to my DNF (Did Not Finish) list since joining Dark Faerie Tales over a year ago. I have been reading this book since before Christmas and thought I’d have it done by New Year which is my standard procedure, but no such luck.
Many of you may wonder why I didn’t finish, well let me tell you. Once you have read over 67% of the book, I want to feel a connection or something from the story, characters or a desire to know how it all plays out. And all I’ve got is “Blah”. Every time I have tried to pick this book back up in the past 3 weeks all I feel is a sense of dread —- not anticipation. In fact, I even kept putting off writing this review in the hopes that I would have a change of mind, but no such miracle has occurred. Unfortunately, this book and I right now are not meant to be buddies.
So you may be wondering, did I just pick up this book and start reading or did I have any prior knowledge of the world or even the author. The answer is “no” to both. But I don’t believe that played into this at all.
Some of you may even know if you have been following my reviews that Steampunk is a new genre for me, and I’ve had a few that I was riveted to and others have been just ok, but there is nothing that interested me in this particular book.
I seem to be in a minority because the average rating for this book on Goodreads is 3.76 out of 5. But just like anything in life, there are times and situations that you will find mind-blowing and someone else may experience the same and walk away going “I could have lived without that experience.”
The turning point for me was the point that Simon Darcy finally realized who the Clockwork Canary in fact was. Once this part of the story was over, I lost all interest in everything else. One of my favorite themes throughout romance novels is a character in disguise, whether that is portraying themselves as a different class, profession or in this case, different gender. But once that was gone there was no other interesting things to encourage me to continue reading.
Final note, I will try another Beth Ciotta novel in the future. And I’m sure I will eventually finish this book too, but there are too many other books to consume to get stuck on this one.
Notable Scene:
The kid fussed with his colorful scarves, stealing a glance at his bronze time cuff. “I have a proposition.”
Simon raised a brow.
“Not that kind of proposition.”
“Do I know you?” Simon couldn’t shake the sense of familiarity even though he was most certain he’d never met this dark-eyed bohemian. A pretty boy with an intense, caged energy. A source of increasing fascination.
“Undoubtedly, you know of me.” He offered a worn gloved hand in greeting. “The name is Willie G,” he said in a clipped, gruff town. “Known professionally as the Clockwork Canary.”
Simon ignored the proffered hand and grabbed the Canary by his ridiculous lapels.
“Cheese and crackers!” The kid exclaimed.
FTC Advisory: Signet/Penguin provided me with a copy of His Clockwork Canary. No goody bags, sponsorships, “material connections,” or bribes were exchanged for my review.
Quick & Dirty: Too slow and I completely lost interest even though I’ve read over 67% of the book.
Opening Sentence: Since the day he’d been born (three and a half minutes later than his twin brother), Simon Darcy had been waging war with time.
The Review:
I have to regrettably inform you that His Clockwork Canary is the first book that I shall be adding to my DNF (Did Not Finish) list since joining Dark Faerie Tales over a year ago. I have been reading this book since before Christmas and thought I’d have it done by New Year which is my standard procedure, but no such luck.
Many of you may wonder why I didn’t finish, well let me tell you. Once you have read over 67% of the book, I want to feel a connection or something from the story, characters or a desire to know how it all plays out. And all I’ve got is “Blah”. Every time I have tried to pick this book back up in the past 3 weeks all I feel is a sense of dread —- not anticipation. In fact, I even kept putting off writing this review in the hopes that I would have a change of mind, but no such miracle has occurred. Unfortunately, this book and I right now are not meant to be buddies.
So you may be wondering, did I just pick up this book and start reading or did I have any prior knowledge of the world or even the author. The answer is “no” to both. But I don’t believe that played into this at all.
Some of you may even know if you have been following my reviews that Steampunk is a new genre for me, and I’ve had a few that I was riveted to and others have been just ok, but there is nothing that interested me in this particular book.
I seem to be in a minority because the average rating for this book on Goodreads is 3.76 out of 5. But just like anything in life, there are times and situations that you will find mind-blowing and someone else may experience the same and walk away going “I could have lived without that experience.”
The turning point for me was the point that Simon Darcy finally realized who the Clockwork Canary in fact was. Once this part of the story was over, I lost all interest in everything else. One of my favorite themes throughout romance novels is a character in disguise, whether that is portraying themselves as a different class, profession or in this case, different gender. But once that was gone there was no other interesting things to encourage me to continue reading.
Final note, I will try another Beth Ciotta novel in the future. And I’m sure I will eventually finish this book too, but there are too many other books to consume to get stuck on this one.
Notable Scene:
The kid fussed with his colorful scarves, stealing a glance at his bronze time cuff. “I have a proposition.”
Simon raised a brow.
“Not that kind of proposition.”
“Do I know you?” Simon couldn’t shake the sense of familiarity even though he was most certain he’d never met this dark-eyed bohemian. A pretty boy with an intense, caged energy. A source of increasing fascination.
“Undoubtedly, you know of me.” He offered a worn gloved hand in greeting. “The name is Willie G,” he said in a clipped, gruff town. “Known professionally as the Clockwork Canary.”
Simon ignored the proffered hand and grabbed the Canary by his ridiculous lapels.
“Cheese and crackers!” The kid exclaimed.
FTC Advisory: Signet/Penguin provided me with a copy of His Clockwork Canary. No goody bags, sponsorships, “material connections,” or bribes were exchanged for my review.
Want to read
April 11, 2014His Clockwork Canary . . . makes me think of a dirty joke.
July 7, 2019
Kinda mixed feelings about this book. The unique but bizarre world was interesting, but I never got very invested in the romance and the ending felt really rushed, like everything just "poof!" got wrapped up. Enjoyed reading it, though, and may pick up the others in the series.
June 11, 2013
I received a complimentary copy of this book as a part of a book tour in exchange for a fair and honest review. I received no additional compensation for my review. I rated it 4.5 out of 5 stars.
A fan of steampunk romance and books with mixed sub-genre, I was definitely looking forward to reading His Clockwork Canary by Beth Ciotta, the second full length book in The Glorious Victorious Darcys series. Unique world building, interesting characters and a second chance romance made this a page turning read. While I didn’t get a chance to read the previous book, Her Sky Cowboy, or the novella set in between both books, His Broken Angel, I was able to read and enjoy His Clockwork Canary on its own.
Set in England in 1887, during Queen Victoria’s Diamond Jubilee, Ms. Ciotta introduces us to amateur inventor and engineer, Simon Darcy. Simon, the younger twin son of a notorious inventor who accidentally blew himself up while trying to travel to the moon, is determined to restore his family’s good name. He plans to win Queen Victoria’s scientific competition by locating the original “clockwork propulsion system”, which will allow him to win the race.
Looking for answers, Simon finds himself enlisting the help of “Willie G”, or The Clockwork Canary, a reporter who’s made a name for himself by publicizing Simon's family’s failures. As Simon and “Willie” spend time together, Simon realizes that “Willie” is not a “he” but is a “she”. In fact, “she’s” Wilhemina Goodenough, a woman from his past.
Forced to masquerade as a “normal man” because of what she is, a Mod-Freak with paranormal power, Willie and Simon find themselves working together to locate Simon’s family legacy. Ms. Ciotta does a good job developing both Simon and Willie’s characters; they both have secrets and need to learn to trust each other. They also have to face their mutual attraction and the love they have for each other which has never gone away.
With a handful of well developed secondary characters, who were previously introduced, Ms. Ciotta sets a fairly fast pace for this story. Giving them an interesting, and diabolical villain, Simon and Willie find themselves facing numerous challenging situations in their pursuit of victory.
Will Simon and Willie find the “clockwork propulsion system” and win the race and restore Simon’s family’s good name? Will Simon and Willie realize they’re love is meant to stay and stand the test of time? You’ll have to read His Clockwork Canary to find out. I enjoyed it and look forward to seeing where Ms. Ciotta takes us next.
A fan of steampunk romance and books with mixed sub-genre, I was definitely looking forward to reading His Clockwork Canary by Beth Ciotta, the second full length book in The Glorious Victorious Darcys series. Unique world building, interesting characters and a second chance romance made this a page turning read. While I didn’t get a chance to read the previous book, Her Sky Cowboy, or the novella set in between both books, His Broken Angel, I was able to read and enjoy His Clockwork Canary on its own.
Set in England in 1887, during Queen Victoria’s Diamond Jubilee, Ms. Ciotta introduces us to amateur inventor and engineer, Simon Darcy. Simon, the younger twin son of a notorious inventor who accidentally blew himself up while trying to travel to the moon, is determined to restore his family’s good name. He plans to win Queen Victoria’s scientific competition by locating the original “clockwork propulsion system”, which will allow him to win the race.
Looking for answers, Simon finds himself enlisting the help of “Willie G”, or The Clockwork Canary, a reporter who’s made a name for himself by publicizing Simon's family’s failures. As Simon and “Willie” spend time together, Simon realizes that “Willie” is not a “he” but is a “she”. In fact, “she’s” Wilhemina Goodenough, a woman from his past.
Forced to masquerade as a “normal man” because of what she is, a Mod-Freak with paranormal power, Willie and Simon find themselves working together to locate Simon’s family legacy. Ms. Ciotta does a good job developing both Simon and Willie’s characters; they both have secrets and need to learn to trust each other. They also have to face their mutual attraction and the love they have for each other which has never gone away.
With a handful of well developed secondary characters, who were previously introduced, Ms. Ciotta sets a fairly fast pace for this story. Giving them an interesting, and diabolical villain, Simon and Willie find themselves facing numerous challenging situations in their pursuit of victory.
Will Simon and Willie find the “clockwork propulsion system” and win the race and restore Simon’s family’s good name? Will Simon and Willie realize they’re love is meant to stay and stand the test of time? You’ll have to read His Clockwork Canary to find out. I enjoyed it and look forward to seeing where Ms. Ciotta takes us next.
July 16, 2016
This is the second book of the Glorious, Victorious Darcys series and features Simon, the brother of the heroine from the first book Her Sky Cowboy. While I couldn’t get into that first book, too much information thrown at me for my comfort, I do know Simon is the reason for the drama surrounding his family mentioned in the first book. This story is his journey to repair that damage and rebuild–and replace–the dubious reputation of the Darcy name.
For me, this story was very superficial. Everything was very much on the surface and not much under the layer of what you saw. This is not a bad thing, but I really wanted to see more done with the characters. Most of the meat of the story was on the suspense angle and the background of the Peace Rebellion.
I wanted to see Simon grow from his desire to be do something spectacular to be somebody accepting of what he has already accomplished. Instead, it felt as if we were told that he was a better person, instead of seeing how he became more comfortable with himself and the death of his father. As it was, I couldn’t connect to him that well; I couldn’t understand why I should care about his inner journey towards loving Willie. Not to say that his character was all that bad, he wasn’t. He just wasn’t all that great.
This story is told simultaneously with the first book with it starting at the same place and with it meeting up Amelia and Tucker towards the end. As I mentioned, I couldn’t get through the first book, but the fact that I hadn’t read it didn’t impact my understanding of this story. In fact, I would say that it was better that I hadn’t read that book before this one. This book doesn’t assume you have read it and provides a glossary and summary of exactly what happened to change the society to this alternate one.
The world of this series had one of the most unique steampunk adventures I’ve heard of. While there are some requirements for the steampunk genre–Victoria era, use of mechanical inventions–Ciotta has added an element that makes it wholly unique. The wonderful pieces of 1970s history, music, and characters makes this book a leader in originality. If you are wondering how this time period fits in the steampunk story, the author uses this image to describe this series: “the Victoria era meets the Age of Aquarius”. And I have to agree this description was most fitting.
*review copy provided by author/promoter for honest review
For me, this story was very superficial. Everything was very much on the surface and not much under the layer of what you saw. This is not a bad thing, but I really wanted to see more done with the characters. Most of the meat of the story was on the suspense angle and the background of the Peace Rebellion.
I wanted to see Simon grow from his desire to be do something spectacular to be somebody accepting of what he has already accomplished. Instead, it felt as if we were told that he was a better person, instead of seeing how he became more comfortable with himself and the death of his father. As it was, I couldn’t connect to him that well; I couldn’t understand why I should care about his inner journey towards loving Willie. Not to say that his character was all that bad, he wasn’t. He just wasn’t all that great.
This story is told simultaneously with the first book with it starting at the same place and with it meeting up Amelia and Tucker towards the end. As I mentioned, I couldn’t get through the first book, but the fact that I hadn’t read it didn’t impact my understanding of this story. In fact, I would say that it was better that I hadn’t read that book before this one. This book doesn’t assume you have read it and provides a glossary and summary of exactly what happened to change the society to this alternate one.
The world of this series had one of the most unique steampunk adventures I’ve heard of. While there are some requirements for the steampunk genre–Victoria era, use of mechanical inventions–Ciotta has added an element that makes it wholly unique. The wonderful pieces of 1970s history, music, and characters makes this book a leader in originality. If you are wondering how this time period fits in the steampunk story, the author uses this image to describe this series: “the Victoria era meets the Age of Aquarius”. And I have to agree this description was most fitting.
*review copy provided by author/promoter for honest review
June 7, 2013
First I want to start by saying that Beth Ciotta's imagination stretches FAR BEYOND my capacity of thinking...She is spectacular! HIS CLOCKWORK CANARY, which is the second book in her Glorious Victorious Darcy's Series, and it is a Steampunk, which is actually the first Steampunk I have ever read. For those of you who don't know what Steampunk is, here is a description:
I honestly wasn't sure if I was going to enjoy this read. I'm a huge romance fan, but I don't read that many Paranormals, or Historicals, so I was very iffy, but this book grabbed my attentions from page one and sucked me into this crazy world full of Mods, Vic and Freaks. (On a side note, If I was stuck there...I'd want to be a Freak!! )
Yes, there was a sexy, protective, smart and very handsome hero...Simon, and yes ladies, he has a twin brother. And Willie G (Mina)....I absolutely fell in love with her! She was an original bad-ass chick, a freak, who did what she needed to do to protect herself and her family and then has to try and keep up the ruse of being a man when she comes into contact with her ex-lover/fiancé...talk about sexual tension...it was actually super funny!!
Now, I can't go into what happens because I would just confuse you with my descriptions, but just know that for Steampunk fans and for first-timer's looking for a new read, HIS CLOCKWORK CANARY was such an amazing read. I was truly sucked into this world I could never even imagine, but then it all just starts to become so clear, like it has always been that way.
Beth Ciotta writes a Romance that will make you laugh, scream in frustration, creep you out slightly (yes...there is a creeper villain), and have you cheering for Willie G and Simon! Great Read, so much fun and I am so glad that I gave it a chance!!
Highly Recommended and A Journey to be had!!
Steampunk is a sub-genre of science fiction that typically features steam-powered machinery,[1] especially in a setting inspired by industrialized Western civilization during the 19th century. Therefore, steampunk works are often set in an alternative history of the 19th century's British Victorian era or American "Wild West", in a post-apocalyptic future during which steam power has regained mainstream use, or in a fantasy world that similarly employs steam power.
I honestly wasn't sure if I was going to enjoy this read. I'm a huge romance fan, but I don't read that many Paranormals, or Historicals, so I was very iffy, but this book grabbed my attentions from page one and sucked me into this crazy world full of Mods, Vic and Freaks. (On a side note, If I was stuck there...I'd want to be a Freak!! )
Yes, there was a sexy, protective, smart and very handsome hero...Simon, and yes ladies, he has a twin brother. And Willie G (Mina)....I absolutely fell in love with her! She was an original bad-ass chick, a freak, who did what she needed to do to protect herself and her family and then has to try and keep up the ruse of being a man when she comes into contact with her ex-lover/fiancé...talk about sexual tension...it was actually super funny!!
Now, I can't go into what happens because I would just confuse you with my descriptions, but just know that for Steampunk fans and for first-timer's looking for a new read, HIS CLOCKWORK CANARY was such an amazing read. I was truly sucked into this world I could never even imagine, but then it all just starts to become so clear, like it has always been that way.
Beth Ciotta writes a Romance that will make you laugh, scream in frustration, creep you out slightly (yes...there is a creeper villain), and have you cheering for Willie G and Simon! Great Read, so much fun and I am so glad that I gave it a chance!!
Highly Recommended and A Journey to be had!!
June 6, 2013
Simon Darcy wants to redeem his family's honor and bring in some money to help. His father died in an accident working on an invention. His family name has been destroyed in the papers thanks to the Clockwork Canary. He knows if he manages to win a competition Queen Victoria has going on he can achieve that goal. His brother and sister are also looking for inventions that have had a huge affect on their time. Simon's soon has company on his journey by the one person he does not want to be around, the Clockwork Canary. The Clockwork Canary has secrets as well. He is really a she and she has a past with Simon. Willie as she goes by has a mission of her own and tries her best to keep a distance from Simon. That may just be as hard to do. She has many secrets she has kept to herself for years. Her secrets just may be the key to helping Simon if they can learn to trust each other.
Simon is a great character. He is smart,loyal to his family, sexy and at times can be overprotective. When he loves someone he tries his best to keep them safe. He sometimes can go a little overboard but that just makes him that much more a great character as he isn't perfect. Willie is a very complex woman. She has had to hide who she is and what she is for years. Whether she is in her male role or the woman she really is, one thing is for sure she is fantastic. I love seeing who she really is come to life.
I highly enjoy steampunk books and this one is now a favorite of mine. It is second in the series but no worries you can read it as a stand alone. I do recommend reading the first one as I plan to very soon. The story is wonderful and very action packed. Something is always going on to keep your attention. There is lots of mystery and intrigue happening and I was surprised several times as I never saw some things coming. The love story is wonder as you can tell these two belong together no matter what anyone says. If you have never read steampunk try this book you will become a fan. If you like romance and action give it a try. Basically I'm saying try this book it is amazing.
The cover is beautiful and matches the book wonderfully.
Simon is a great character. He is smart,loyal to his family, sexy and at times can be overprotective. When he loves someone he tries his best to keep them safe. He sometimes can go a little overboard but that just makes him that much more a great character as he isn't perfect. Willie is a very complex woman. She has had to hide who she is and what she is for years. Whether she is in her male role or the woman she really is, one thing is for sure she is fantastic. I love seeing who she really is come to life.
I highly enjoy steampunk books and this one is now a favorite of mine. It is second in the series but no worries you can read it as a stand alone. I do recommend reading the first one as I plan to very soon. The story is wonderful and very action packed. Something is always going on to keep your attention. There is lots of mystery and intrigue happening and I was surprised several times as I never saw some things coming. The love story is wonder as you can tell these two belong together no matter what anyone says. If you have never read steampunk try this book you will become a fan. If you like romance and action give it a try. Basically I'm saying try this book it is amazing.
The cover is beautiful and matches the book wonderfully.
June 7, 2013
See this review and more at www.tattooedbookreview.com!
As a fan of both Steampunk and Romance, His Clockwork Canary is absolutely everything I could have asked for. It has that steampunk “tone”, a bit Victorian and a bit modern, clever and inventive; a pleasing combination of light-heartedness tinged just enough with darker elements.
Ciotta expertly creates a fantasy setting, serving as a backdrop for an engaging and adventurous plot. I had so much fun reading Willie and Simon’s story. They are each well realized characters, with pasts, secrets, and ambitions for the future. When their paths collide, there’s oodles of chemistry, plenty of steamy scenes, and the prospect that their lives may be forever changed in the best ways possible.
A story told with creative charm and filled with adventure, delightful fantasy, and sizzling romance, I adore this book. I would consider it a must-read for fans of steampunk romance, and a fantastic place to start if you are new to the genre!
“Willie relished the heady feeling of power as she ever-so-slowly loosened the front lacing of her corseted bodice.She reveled in Simon’s frustrated groan as her fingers glided over the satin ribbons, as the décolletage slipped lower, revealing more of her breasts. When he rose up and reached out, she knocked away his hands. “No touching”.
His raunchy muttered curse worked like an aphrodisiac. Never had she been so wanton, so scandalous.”
*I received a complimentary copy of the book in exchange for a fair and honest review.
As a fan of both Steampunk and Romance, His Clockwork Canary is absolutely everything I could have asked for. It has that steampunk “tone”, a bit Victorian and a bit modern, clever and inventive; a pleasing combination of light-heartedness tinged just enough with darker elements.
Ciotta expertly creates a fantasy setting, serving as a backdrop for an engaging and adventurous plot. I had so much fun reading Willie and Simon’s story. They are each well realized characters, with pasts, secrets, and ambitions for the future. When their paths collide, there’s oodles of chemistry, plenty of steamy scenes, and the prospect that their lives may be forever changed in the best ways possible.
A story told with creative charm and filled with adventure, delightful fantasy, and sizzling romance, I adore this book. I would consider it a must-read for fans of steampunk romance, and a fantastic place to start if you are new to the genre!
“Willie relished the heady feeling of power as she ever-so-slowly loosened the front lacing of her corseted bodice.She reveled in Simon’s frustrated groan as her fingers glided over the satin ribbons, as the décolletage slipped lower, revealing more of her breasts. When he rose up and reached out, she knocked away his hands. “No touching”.
His raunchy muttered curse worked like an aphrodisiac. Never had she been so wanton, so scandalous.”
*I received a complimentary copy of the book in exchange for a fair and honest review.
June 18, 2013
This is the second book in The Glorious Victorious Darcys series and involves one of my favorite genres — steampunk! The first book is Her Sky Cowboy, and I loved that one, too! His Clockwork Canary opens up with the Diamond Jubilee and Simon Darcy, who is trying to restore his family's good name (some nonsense about his father blowing himself up trying to get to the moon) and a whole other mess of characters. Simon enlists Willie's help and finds out he is a she and hiding who she really is and was meant to be.
If you are a fan of steampunk, violence, crazy inventions and hot geeky inventors, I'd pick up this book. The romance and chemistry between Willie/Mina and Simon are fantastic. I also loved all the inventions and clockwork gears, and of course the action. Simon isn't the stereotypical alpha male in romance, and Mina is certainly butt-kicking enough for the both of them. Did I also happen to mention that Simon has a twin brother? Hmmm, can you say book three?
For more Awesome Recs today check out the HEA Blog
http://www.usatoday.com/story/happyev...
If you are a fan of steampunk, violence, crazy inventions and hot geeky inventors, I'd pick up this book. The romance and chemistry between Willie/Mina and Simon are fantastic. I also loved all the inventions and clockwork gears, and of course the action. Simon isn't the stereotypical alpha male in romance, and Mina is certainly butt-kicking enough for the both of them. Did I also happen to mention that Simon has a twin brother? Hmmm, can you say book three?
For more Awesome Recs today check out the HEA Blog
http://www.usatoday.com/story/happyev...
July 27, 2013
Oh wow! A romantic hero who is SELF AWARE enough to both recognise when he & the heroine are faced with relationship and life issues they need to talk about AND can actually see the situation from her perspective! "Why yes, honey, I can see that I am letting my preconceptions trample on the freedoms I, as a privileged white man, take for granted that you've had to beg, borrow, and steal for yourself - guess I'd better be sure about the difference between 'compromise' and 'being a domineering asshat'! Fortunately, my author understands that writing me as being smart and caring means I actually can unbend and align my idea of what's good for you with what actually makes you happy, rather than what I think should make you happy and coincidentally make my life easier. Wish she'd pass that idea around."
All of the problems I had with the first book seem to have disappeared so I'm really really glad I read book 2. I love this universe and look forward to the next book.
All of the problems I had with the first book seem to have disappeared so I'm really really glad I read book 2. I love this universe and look forward to the next book.
December 21, 2018
Full Review posted on Book Lovin' Mamas
I give this book 4.5 moons and highly recommend it to steampunk readers out there. This is one book that will intrigue you from the first page to the last page.
Beth Ciotta did a fabulous job again in the second book in the Glorious Victorious Darcys books. I cannot wait for Jules story. He sounds like he may become a favorite Darcy of mine due to what I found out about him in this book. =)
I received a complimentary copy of the book from the publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
I give this book 4.5 moons and highly recommend it to steampunk readers out there. This is one book that will intrigue you from the first page to the last page.
Beth Ciotta did a fabulous job again in the second book in the Glorious Victorious Darcys books. I cannot wait for Jules story. He sounds like he may become a favorite Darcy of mine due to what I found out about him in this book. =)
I received a complimentary copy of the book from the publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
June 3, 2013
The great thing about steampunk is it combines the faculties of the Victorian era with any other futuristic era the author wishes to add. Beth's addition of the 60s/70s Free Love era is both brilliant and added a bit of nostalgia to an unusual story line. I also really appreciated the author's use of the Darcy name to draw on a bit of Austen and her era of romance. Overall, it's an adventurous read, but a bit steamy in the romance department - making it blush worthy. Recommended for those who like a bit of adventure wrapped up in their romance.
*I received a copy of this book from the publisher through a blog tour in exchange for an HONEST and not necessarily positive review.
*I received a copy of this book from the publisher through a blog tour in exchange for an HONEST and not necessarily positive review.
June 6, 2013
I have been waiting for book two for awhile now. I love the world Beth Ciotta has built and the characters she has developed.
Simon & Willie are fun, though I kept thinking there would be more fall out over certain issues.
Characters: 4
Plot: 4
World: 4.5
Pacing: 4.5
Overall: 4
I really do love how easy and quick of a read this is.
Simon & Willie are fun, though I kept thinking there would be more fall out over certain issues.
Characters: 4
Plot: 4
World: 4.5
Pacing: 4.5
Overall: 4
I really do love how easy and quick of a read this is.
July 15, 2013
I am loving this new steam punk genre. This book was fun and I enjoy reading about the Darcy family. I love the blend of Victorian England, technology and alternative history. Beth Ciotta is certainly on my list of authors whom I'm keep my eye on.
June 29, 2013
I recommend this book, and the previous two books in the series, to anyone!! There is adventure, intrigue, romance all coupled with some fun sci-fi/fantasy stuff in the steampunk genre!! I honestly can't wait for the next book. I feel like this series could go on for long while!
June 30, 2013
Do think I liked the first book better, but still very good :)
July 13, 2013
2.5 maybe. so slow the first half of the book I almost gave up on it. good, but very little action and the relationship between the two mains gave me a headache.
June 16, 2013
A page turning adventure, with just the right balance of action and spice. Supremely satisfying.
April 10, 2021
Read my review at https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Read
July 24, 2013Amazing! But this one seemed to be more of a mystery than adventure. But I'm still excited to read more of their adventures, though I would like more Amelia and tucker.
June 5, 2021
There were some genuinely engaging ideas here,but a lot of the time they were buried in a saccharine, overly florid romance.
June 26, 2016
History is repeating itself
For ambitious engineer Simon Darcy, winning Queen Victoria's competition to recover lost inventions of historical significance is a matter of pride--and redemption. After all, it was Simon's failed monorail project that left his family destitute, and winning the tournament would surely restore the Darcy's reputation.
Simon sets his sights high, targeting no less than the infamous time-travel device that forever changed the world by transporting scientists, engineers, and artists from the twentieth century. The Mod technology was banned and supposedly destroyed, but Simon is sure he can re-create it.
His daring plan draws the attention of Willie G., The Clockwork Canary, London's sensationalist reporter. Simon soon discovers that Willie is a male guise for Wilhemina Goodenough, the love of his youth, who left him jilted and bitter. He questions her motives even as he falls prey to her unique charm. As the attraction between the two reignites, Simon realizes that this vixen from his past has secrets that could be the key to his future...as long as he can put their history behind him.
Beth Ciotta does a wonderful job building her steampunk world and filling it with characters that are as unique and intriguing as this reality she's created. Her world and the characters that inhabit it will make you laugh, scream in frustration, want to shower (at least I did whenever the bad guy showed up), worry for the characters and cheer for the good guys. She also develops both Simon and Willie's characters throughout the story, making you ache for their missed communication 12 years ago and then root for the rekindling as Simon finally realizes who Willie really is.
It was interesting to learn about Willie and everything she's dealt with while masquerading as a man. On the one hand, I could understand her hesitancy to tell anyone about her race and her gender when it came to her job, but I was a little uncertain why she didn't at least feel like being herself in a skytown occasionally. I did find myself rooting for her to turn around and clock Strangelove when he initially showed up in her apartment to force to connect with Simon. And I never stopped rooting for Willie. She was a great heroine, independent and loyal and willing to do what she needed to (or at least what she thought she needed to) in order to protect her family (even if they didn't feel the same way).
Simon is definitely my kind of man.
When Simon, Willie and Phin met up with Amelia and Tucker, it was all I could do to keep from rolling off my bed with laughter (Everyone else in the house was sleeping and I didn't feel like explaining). First you've got Simon punching an infamous Sky Captain and nearly getting his head blown off for his trouble. Then you've got this:
I'm intrigued with Jules, now that we know a little more about Bella's specialty and Jules' job with HMM. Her specialty could explain so much...Can we please get Jules' book?
For ambitious engineer Simon Darcy, winning Queen Victoria's competition to recover lost inventions of historical significance is a matter of pride--and redemption. After all, it was Simon's failed monorail project that left his family destitute, and winning the tournament would surely restore the Darcy's reputation.
Simon sets his sights high, targeting no less than the infamous time-travel device that forever changed the world by transporting scientists, engineers, and artists from the twentieth century. The Mod technology was banned and supposedly destroyed, but Simon is sure he can re-create it.
His daring plan draws the attention of Willie G., The Clockwork Canary, London's sensationalist reporter. Simon soon discovers that Willie is a male guise for Wilhemina Goodenough, the love of his youth, who left him jilted and bitter. He questions her motives even as he falls prey to her unique charm. As the attraction between the two reignites, Simon realizes that this vixen from his past has secrets that could be the key to his future...as long as he can put their history behind him.
Beth Ciotta does a wonderful job building her steampunk world and filling it with characters that are as unique and intriguing as this reality she's created. Her world and the characters that inhabit it will make you laugh, scream in frustration, want to shower (at least I did whenever the bad guy showed up), worry for the characters and cheer for the good guys. She also develops both Simon and Willie's characters throughout the story, making you ache for their missed communication 12 years ago and then root for the rekindling as Simon finally realizes who Willie really is.
It was interesting to learn about Willie and everything she's dealt with while masquerading as a man. On the one hand, I could understand her hesitancy to tell anyone about her race and her gender when it came to her job, but I was a little uncertain why she didn't at least feel like being herself in a skytown occasionally. I did find myself rooting for her to turn around and clock Strangelove when he initially showed up in her apartment to force to connect with Simon. And I never stopped rooting for Willie. She was a great heroine, independent and loyal and willing to do what she needed to (or at least what she thought she needed to) in order to protect her family (even if they didn't feel the same way).
Simon is definitely my kind of man.
Wide-eyed and charmed, she slowly toured about the dark-paneled library. A massive room with massive clutter. The floor-to-ceiling shelves were so crammed with books that many volumes were staechekd rons iti des. There were also many piles of books on his ornate desk as well as on the floor.Considering that this basically describes the status of all my books right now, I'd consider marrying him based on the library alone. Throw in his looks and his general good character (even including his slight habit of dalliances with the occasional married woman) and I'd move consider up to highly probably.
When Simon, Willie and Phin met up with Amelia and Tucker, it was all I could do to keep from rolling off my bed with laughter (Everyone else in the house was sleeping and I didn't feel like explaining). First you've got Simon punching an infamous Sky Captain and nearly getting his head blown off for his trouble. Then you've got this:
Amelia whirled again. "Phin?"What a way to introduce yourself.
Gentry's eyes narrowed. "Phineas Bourdain?"
Phin raised one brow. "You know of me?"
Gentry responded by knocking Phin off his feet with a wicked roundhouse.
"Bloody hell." Simon said to his sister. "You told your husband Phin stole a kiss?"
She gave an innocent shrug. "He wasn't my husband at the time."
I'm intrigued with Jules, now that we know a little more about Bella's specialty and Jules' job with HMM. Her specialty could explain so much...Can we please get Jules' book?
August 22, 2013
Overall Rating: 4 out of 5 Stars
Summary:
Simon Darcy, tinkerer and inventor extraordinaire knows that there is something passionately familiar about the slight woman masquerading as a young pressman and calling herself Willie G. aka Clockwork Canary. Something tells him that the connection between them is much more than reporter and scoop, even in this chaotic age of Victorian England. When he discovers that the famed Clockwork Canary is in fact his one true lover, who jilted him over a decade ago, Wilhelmina Goodenough (his Mina!) sparks passion and demands for answers begin to fly more rapidly than the flying contraptions that dot the Victorian landscape. It is a landscape that was forever altered by the invasions of those from centuries in the future.
This land of Queen Victoria is not known to the history books- it is one fantastical machine, of freaks and rogues, of daring adventurers hiding just beneath the thin veneer of polite society. It is a time of inventive wonder and passionate embraces. It is a world where Simon and his Clockwork Canary find themselves fighting the world around them, their distrust of each other, and the sinister forces that would tear their fragile world apart.
Overall Impressions:
I will admit that Steam Punk is one of my favorite literary niches in the market today. It is often filled with atmosphere, has the ability to transport its readers to another place and time with ease, and allows the reader to thrive in a world of tradition and possibilities without leaving the comfort of their own home. If it is well done, the escape into the fantasy world is both exhilarating and uplifting simple because the flight of fancy is grounded in the tangible. The gears and steam are familiar and nostalgic while the passion and inventiveness brings a whole new understanding.
Overall I liked this book for a number of reasons. The first is the villain of the piece. The villain is so unabashedly evil, so deliciously conceited and self-serving that I cackled at his exploits and cheered when he got his just desserts. It was so refreshing to not have to worry myself about the inner psychology or apparent abuse suffered by the wretched individual. It was simply, and gloriously fun to watch him work.
The second reason that I enjoyed this book was the cast of minor characters and their interactions with the world around them. Servants were both cheeky and polite. Tried and true friends were blackmailed into submission concerning their impulses of youth, and the closest of brothers are revealed to be so much more than imagined.
There is, of course the romantic relationship between the main characters, and it is skillfully and tastefully written, but still has the passion one would come to expect from writing of this caliber. That being said, quite a bit is left to the imagination, which is a nice change of pace.
On a more disappointing note, I would have liked to see a bit more atmosphere and setting nuances in the book. While I usually am a proponent of a minimalist approach, one of the things I love about Steam Punk is its attention to the small details, and how they interlock to form a more vibrant and dimensional picture. While I could clearly envision the world, the color and hues I had come to expect were somewhat muted in this example.
This is definitely a story to add to your collection, and if it’s your first introduction to Steampunk, it is a respectable one.
Rating system:
0 Stars – Great for kindling or wasting space on your hard drive
1 Star – Perfect gift for that person you can’t stand
2 Stars – Put it on your to Borrow list
3 Stars – Buy it if you get the chance- worth a weekend read.
4 Stars – This is definitely something to add to your library
5 Stars – Impulse Buy Approved.
Summary:
Simon Darcy, tinkerer and inventor extraordinaire knows that there is something passionately familiar about the slight woman masquerading as a young pressman and calling herself Willie G. aka Clockwork Canary. Something tells him that the connection between them is much more than reporter and scoop, even in this chaotic age of Victorian England. When he discovers that the famed Clockwork Canary is in fact his one true lover, who jilted him over a decade ago, Wilhelmina Goodenough (his Mina!) sparks passion and demands for answers begin to fly more rapidly than the flying contraptions that dot the Victorian landscape. It is a landscape that was forever altered by the invasions of those from centuries in the future.
This land of Queen Victoria is not known to the history books- it is one fantastical machine, of freaks and rogues, of daring adventurers hiding just beneath the thin veneer of polite society. It is a time of inventive wonder and passionate embraces. It is a world where Simon and his Clockwork Canary find themselves fighting the world around them, their distrust of each other, and the sinister forces that would tear their fragile world apart.
Overall Impressions:
I will admit that Steam Punk is one of my favorite literary niches in the market today. It is often filled with atmosphere, has the ability to transport its readers to another place and time with ease, and allows the reader to thrive in a world of tradition and possibilities without leaving the comfort of their own home. If it is well done, the escape into the fantasy world is both exhilarating and uplifting simple because the flight of fancy is grounded in the tangible. The gears and steam are familiar and nostalgic while the passion and inventiveness brings a whole new understanding.
Overall I liked this book for a number of reasons. The first is the villain of the piece. The villain is so unabashedly evil, so deliciously conceited and self-serving that I cackled at his exploits and cheered when he got his just desserts. It was so refreshing to not have to worry myself about the inner psychology or apparent abuse suffered by the wretched individual. It was simply, and gloriously fun to watch him work.
The second reason that I enjoyed this book was the cast of minor characters and their interactions with the world around them. Servants were both cheeky and polite. Tried and true friends were blackmailed into submission concerning their impulses of youth, and the closest of brothers are revealed to be so much more than imagined.
There is, of course the romantic relationship between the main characters, and it is skillfully and tastefully written, but still has the passion one would come to expect from writing of this caliber. That being said, quite a bit is left to the imagination, which is a nice change of pace.
On a more disappointing note, I would have liked to see a bit more atmosphere and setting nuances in the book. While I usually am a proponent of a minimalist approach, one of the things I love about Steam Punk is its attention to the small details, and how they interlock to form a more vibrant and dimensional picture. While I could clearly envision the world, the color and hues I had come to expect were somewhat muted in this example.
This is definitely a story to add to your collection, and if it’s your first introduction to Steampunk, it is a respectable one.
Rating system:
0 Stars – Great for kindling or wasting space on your hard drive
1 Star – Perfect gift for that person you can’t stand
2 Stars – Put it on your to Borrow list
3 Stars – Buy it if you get the chance- worth a weekend read.
4 Stars – This is definitely something to add to your library
5 Stars – Impulse Buy Approved.
June 19, 2013
I received a free copy of this novel through Goodreads First Reads.
I was initially disappointed when I saw on the cover of this book that it was a "romance novel", but I am really glad that I gave it a chance and was pleasantly surprised. I'm not a big fan of romance novels mainly because my few experiences with them have been poor. In the past I have found that the plot of a romance novel usually only served as a vehicle for the main couple to get together and once that happens it's all romance and little plot. This book is so much more than that. The novel does contain various romantic story lines and a few scenes of more explicit content, but in general this is first and foremost an entertaining and complex novel.
The setting of the book is a bit complicated to describe and the author will do it much better than me, but basically in the 1860's an inventor figured out how to time travel and traveled to the 1960's. We don't know much about what happened, but several years later a group of people from the 1960's traveled back in time to the 1860's to bring about what they viewed as positive changes in society and technology so that they could avert various catastrophes of the 20th century. This does create tensions and wars and many other complex social issues. The main issue is that there are now three classes of people, so to speak. There are the Victorians living in their normal time, the Mods from the future, and the Freaks which are supernaturally gifted children of one Victorian and one Mod parent.
The main characters in the novel are closely connected to all these events. Simon is a cousin of the original time traveler and an inventor himself. Willie/Willhemina is a Freak whose mother was deeply involved in the Mod's time travel and subsequent activities. She is currently hiding her identity and working as a newspaper reporter. Simon and Willie were lovers in the past and planned to elope, but some misunderstanding occurred and they are both hurt from the past. Simon is invited to participate in a competition to find the most significant historical invention which leads him on a path to find the time travel device. Willie is ordered by her paper to follow and interview Simon. Thus, the two lovers are brought back in contact and set out on a journey.
The novel provides a very interesting and intricate plot. I had a hard time occasionally and I think this was because I haven't read the first book in this series, but really it was a fascinating idea for a setting. The world isn't completely worked out and I'd love more details. The characters are very well written. I wasn't annoyed by anyone and I didn't think that anyone was acting overly dramatic or against their characterization. I think my favorite character was the friend, Phin, who comes along for part of the journey.
Overall, a good read and I'd definitely recommend this book to fans of steampunk, science fiction, or romance. It was great to read a romance novel with a solid plot so that the romance is only one aspect of the overall novel.
I was initially disappointed when I saw on the cover of this book that it was a "romance novel", but I am really glad that I gave it a chance and was pleasantly surprised. I'm not a big fan of romance novels mainly because my few experiences with them have been poor. In the past I have found that the plot of a romance novel usually only served as a vehicle for the main couple to get together and once that happens it's all romance and little plot. This book is so much more than that. The novel does contain various romantic story lines and a few scenes of more explicit content, but in general this is first and foremost an entertaining and complex novel.
The setting of the book is a bit complicated to describe and the author will do it much better than me, but basically in the 1860's an inventor figured out how to time travel and traveled to the 1960's. We don't know much about what happened, but several years later a group of people from the 1960's traveled back in time to the 1860's to bring about what they viewed as positive changes in society and technology so that they could avert various catastrophes of the 20th century. This does create tensions and wars and many other complex social issues. The main issue is that there are now three classes of people, so to speak. There are the Victorians living in their normal time, the Mods from the future, and the Freaks which are supernaturally gifted children of one Victorian and one Mod parent.
The main characters in the novel are closely connected to all these events. Simon is a cousin of the original time traveler and an inventor himself. Willie/Willhemina is a Freak whose mother was deeply involved in the Mod's time travel and subsequent activities. She is currently hiding her identity and working as a newspaper reporter. Simon and Willie were lovers in the past and planned to elope, but some misunderstanding occurred and they are both hurt from the past. Simon is invited to participate in a competition to find the most significant historical invention which leads him on a path to find the time travel device. Willie is ordered by her paper to follow and interview Simon. Thus, the two lovers are brought back in contact and set out on a journey.
The novel provides a very interesting and intricate plot. I had a hard time occasionally and I think this was because I haven't read the first book in this series, but really it was a fascinating idea for a setting. The world isn't completely worked out and I'd love more details. The characters are very well written. I wasn't annoyed by anyone and I didn't think that anyone was acting overly dramatic or against their characterization. I think my favorite character was the friend, Phin, who comes along for part of the journey.
Overall, a good read and I'd definitely recommend this book to fans of steampunk, science fiction, or romance. It was great to read a romance novel with a solid plot so that the romance is only one aspect of the overall novel.
October 13, 2014
A steam-punk novel filled with action, adventure and a pretty enticing romance.
In comparison to the first novel 'Her Sky Cowboy', this novel was a lot easier to get through, and was more entertaining. I loved that the romance between the two main characters, Simon Darcy & Wilhemina Goodenough, actually had a history to it - as opposed to the fast-paced romance of Amelia Darcy and Tucker Gentry in the first book. Simon and Willie (a nickname she uses) fell in love when they were younger and planned to elope, but due to an incredible misunderstanding the two were left feeling as if the other abandoned the relationship. Reconnecting 10 years later, the spark was still present but also a lot of mistrust and plenty of questions. The author did a good job of displaying the growth of the rekindled relationship, as well as the slow progress of regaining trust - however, Ciotta wasn't shy about throwing the two into bed together. Also, the reintroduction of marriage appeared a bit rushed. Simon offered it without assurance that he truly loved Willie but more so out of obligation of protection. But readers, fear not ... he eventually does fall in love with her and the two live happily ever after. More or less.
The romance aside, the action was pretty entertaining and a bit easier to keep up with than the first book. The beginning of the book starts back at the beginning of the Royal Rejuvenation Race so the reader gets a sense that they will be rereading the entire race, just from a different Darcy's perspective. At least that's the idea, until you actually near the end of the book when Tucker and Amelia intertwined with Willie and Simon on an expedition. The actual time frame for the book is a little confusing. Interesting tie-in, although slightly not needed but I guess the more the merrier.
One thing that I actually loved was Bingham getting shot (albeit by accident). Readers have had to endure his sexual abuse of his automaton Renee for about 1 1/2 books. Well, he finally gets a little taste of what he deserves. During a heated battle, Bingham ordered his automaton to fire at the enemy, but due to a malfunction she accidentally shoots him in the gut - not killing him, but irritating him enough to be rid of her. I would have been more content with his death, but a shot to the stomach is acceptable.
Overall, if you can neglect a somewhat odd timeline of events, some writing errors, and a lot of figuring out who did what - it was an interesting novel that will have the reader wanting to discover what the end result of the journey is. I am looking forward to seeing if Ciotta indulges readers with Jules Darcy's (the final Darcy sibling) adventures and romance.
In comparison to the first novel 'Her Sky Cowboy', this novel was a lot easier to get through, and was more entertaining. I loved that the romance between the two main characters, Simon Darcy & Wilhemina Goodenough, actually had a history to it - as opposed to the fast-paced romance of Amelia Darcy and Tucker Gentry in the first book. Simon and Willie (a nickname she uses) fell in love when they were younger and planned to elope, but due to an incredible misunderstanding the two were left feeling as if the other abandoned the relationship. Reconnecting 10 years later, the spark was still present but also a lot of mistrust and plenty of questions. The author did a good job of displaying the growth of the rekindled relationship, as well as the slow progress of regaining trust - however, Ciotta wasn't shy about throwing the two into bed together. Also, the reintroduction of marriage appeared a bit rushed. Simon offered it without assurance that he truly loved Willie but more so out of obligation of protection. But readers, fear not ... he eventually does fall in love with her and the two live happily ever after. More or less.
The romance aside, the action was pretty entertaining and a bit easier to keep up with than the first book. The beginning of the book starts back at the beginning of the Royal Rejuvenation Race so the reader gets a sense that they will be rereading the entire race, just from a different Darcy's perspective. At least that's the idea, until you actually near the end of the book when Tucker and Amelia intertwined with Willie and Simon on an expedition. The actual time frame for the book is a little confusing. Interesting tie-in, although slightly not needed but I guess the more the merrier.
One thing that I actually loved was Bingham getting shot (albeit by accident). Readers have had to endure his sexual abuse of his automaton Renee for about 1 1/2 books. Well, he finally gets a little taste of what he deserves. During a heated battle, Bingham ordered his automaton to fire at the enemy, but due to a malfunction she accidentally shoots him in the gut - not killing him, but irritating him enough to be rid of her. I would have been more content with his death, but a shot to the stomach is acceptable.
Overall, if you can neglect a somewhat odd timeline of events, some writing errors, and a lot of figuring out who did what - it was an interesting novel that will have the reader wanting to discover what the end result of the journey is. I am looking forward to seeing if Ciotta indulges readers with Jules Darcy's (the final Darcy sibling) adventures and romance.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 25, 2013
Simon Darcy’s father has just passed away and he is facing somewhat of a predicament. He needs to make money and provide for the family that his father left behind. When Queen Victoria broadcasts an announcement for a competition that she is holding, he knows that this could be his chance to win the prize and reclaim some pride for his family who is now in despair. Simon thinks nothing can stand in his way from winning this prize until The Clockwork Canary, better known as Wilhelmina Goodenough the lead journalist for the London Informer, joins him on his new journey. He can’t stand the things that he, really a she, writes about in the London news, but Simon is about to learn that The Clockwork Canary has a few secrets of his, I mean her, own!
Another fabulous book from Beth Ciotta. I discovered Beth about this time last year, and I have been following her series of books ever since. She is phenomenal at pulling readers into the Steampunk genre. She even gives readers an “Alternate World Glossary” at the front of this book, and honestly I spent about a half hour just losing myself in this alternate world and its terminology. Truly, I don’t think Beth gets enough credit within the genre. I mean it’s not every day that people just create a new world!
Simon and Mina’s search for this time traveling device is one riveting adventure. I never lost sight of the story and I always felt as if I were involved in the mission. They are both somewhat secretive characters, so this is a story that secrets will unravel as you read. In my opinion those are the best kind of stories. I loved finding out the past between Mina and Simon! Mina stayed camouflaged as Willie G. for as long as she could. The chemistry between them was wonderful and I would love see them pop up in future stories as Beth continues this series!
***A copy of this book was provided to me by the publishers at Signet in exchange for my honest review***
Another fabulous book from Beth Ciotta. I discovered Beth about this time last year, and I have been following her series of books ever since. She is phenomenal at pulling readers into the Steampunk genre. She even gives readers an “Alternate World Glossary” at the front of this book, and honestly I spent about a half hour just losing myself in this alternate world and its terminology. Truly, I don’t think Beth gets enough credit within the genre. I mean it’s not every day that people just create a new world!
Simon and Mina’s search for this time traveling device is one riveting adventure. I never lost sight of the story and I always felt as if I were involved in the mission. They are both somewhat secretive characters, so this is a story that secrets will unravel as you read. In my opinion those are the best kind of stories. I loved finding out the past between Mina and Simon! Mina stayed camouflaged as Willie G. for as long as she could. The chemistry between them was wonderful and I would love see them pop up in future stories as Beth continues this series!
***A copy of this book was provided to me by the publishers at Signet in exchange for my honest review***
June 19, 2016
2-2.5 stars. Unfortunately this didn't work like I'd hoped it would. Wilhelmina Goodenough, aka Willie G., aka the Clockwork Canary, is forced/blackmailed to spy on Simon Darcy as he searches for his entry for the Triple R. She is a reporter for a gossip newspaper, the Informer and has held her spot pretending to be a man. The blackmailer knows everything about her, including that she's a Freak, and Willie agrees to save her family.
Simon agrees to take Willie with him to report on his adventure thought Willie sells it as if it's only going to be a series for her paper.
I really struggled to get into this one. The pace was slow and just didn't grab me like the first one did. Yet the relationship between Willie and Simon moves at light speed. He sees through her mannish garb and of course they have a history having almost married 10 years earlier. My biggest issue was with Simon, and his character would have looked much better through her POV only. I really disliked being in his head. He wants Willie to dress like a female and act female not because he thinks it's better for her but because he's uncomfortable with how she is. All the changes he wants are for his comfort, not hers. In fact when she has cold feet before their wedding, he ponders threatening her job to force her to go through with it. He claims to respect her and her abilities but treats her like she's a child.
Willie certainly isn't perfect. She's keeping a secret from Simon, but she's stood on her own for 10 years, she knows how to get information from people and when she's flirting with TSTL territory she steps back and gets help.
The pace did pick up and I became invested when everything began falling into place. I also liked seeing the characters from book one back. Overall I have a better appreciation of the first installment after slogging through this one.
Simon agrees to take Willie with him to report on his adventure thought Willie sells it as if it's only going to be a series for her paper.
I really struggled to get into this one. The pace was slow and just didn't grab me like the first one did. Yet the relationship between Willie and Simon moves at light speed. He sees through her mannish garb and of course they have a history having almost married 10 years earlier. My biggest issue was with Simon, and his character would have looked much better through her POV only. I really disliked being in his head. He wants Willie to dress like a female and act female not because he thinks it's better for her but because he's uncomfortable with how she is. All the changes he wants are for his comfort, not hers. In fact when she has cold feet before their wedding, he ponders threatening her job to force her to go through with it. He claims to respect her and her abilities but treats her like she's a child.
Willie certainly isn't perfect. She's keeping a secret from Simon, but she's stood on her own for 10 years, she knows how to get information from people and when she's flirting with TSTL territory she steps back and gets help.
The pace did pick up and I became invested when everything began falling into place. I also liked seeing the characters from book one back. Overall I have a better appreciation of the first installment after slogging through this one.
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