Review: Steam and Sorcery by Cindy Spencer Pape

Steam and Sorcery by Cindy Spencer Pape

*NetGalley book

NetGalley Marketing Copy:

Sir Merrick Hadrian hunts monsters, both human and supernatural. A Knight of the Order of the Round Table, his use of magick and the technologies of steam power have made him both respected and feared. But his considerable skills are useless in the face of his greatest challenge, guardianship of five unusual children. At a loss, Merrick enlists the aid of a governess.

Miss Caroline Bristol is reluctant to work for a bachelor but she needs a position, and these former street children touch her heart. While she tends to break any mechanical device she touches, it never occurs to her that she might be something more than human. All she knows is that Merrick is the most dangerously attractive man she's ever met-and out of reach for a mere governess.

When conspiracy threatens to blur the distinction between humans and monsters, Caroline and Merrick must join forces, and the fate of humanity hinges upon their combined skills of steam and sorcery...

My thoughts:
I enjoyed this story very much.  I have come to love steampunk and this is a fabulous example of genre.  The characters are delightful!  Well developed, interesting, and lovable.  The author has done a fantastic job of disarming the reader and depositing the children directly in your heart.  Sir Merrick is a treat and Miss Caroline Bristol is wonderful.  The unexpected romance is an added bonus.  Social class be damned!
The story flows smoothly and is filled with gripping intrigue, unusual adventures, and monsters.  It is clever, creative, and well written.  Well worth a read!