tien

I’ve definitely come to the party late! Didn’t realise that it was the fourth book of series either however it’s a series of the “world” as main characters are different in each book. I’ve not read the first 3 books but I don’t think that was a detriment at all. If you’ve read the other books, you may have a different opinion.Nevertheless, it was a really fun read. I love this steampunk London where it’s not just foggy anymore; it’s so very smoggy that you’d need a mask with filters if you’d want to keep your health. Of course, if you’re a supernatural (for example, a werewolf), that’s not totally necessary. There is a definite demarcation line between the poor and the wealthy with no better future in view. Survival is not only threatened by health or poverty but there many of the poor are disappearing with rumours of ‘mechanical’ men as abductors.I loved Wink –she is brainy, spunky, and all-round-capable. She’s a fun MC to follow. She’s really smart (she makes these pet toys which all carry hidden weapons) and also kicks some serious ass (not always literally). She has loved Liam (love this name too!) since she was 14 and hoped that he’d wait for her to grow up. Liam, on the other hand, had committed himself to a life of bachelorhood. Wink wants marriage and children, lots of children – will she be able to knock down Liam’s protective walls?“Damn it, Winifred, that was a mistake.” He stepped closer, his voice more raw than she’d ever heard it. Liam was the only one who ever used the long version of her name, and she decided that from him, she rather liked it.However, she didn’t care for his attitude. She sat up straighter, crossing her arms over her chest. “I find I take exception to being considered a mistake.”“That’s not what I meant.” He paced restlessly in front of her. “You’re too good for me.”“Not only is that the most clichéd line ever, it presupposes that I don’t know my own mind. It appears I don’t get any say in the matter of my so-called best interests.” She was making a fool of herself.A terrific set of world with lovable characters make for enjoyable read. The mystery itself was also set up really well with a typical crazy evil bad guy. However, I found the romance slightly lacking; not enough struggles / sufferings and it was resolved pretty quickly & too easily. Noting that it’s a short-ish sort of book though, this would have to be it. There is also a love triangle (ugh!) but this time, I actually find it ticklish funny. The whole setup was destined to fail but not without hope and not that painful.Thanks to Carina Press and NetGalley for the privilege to read & review eGalley