Etiquette and Espionage by Gail Carriger

Paperback,312 pages

Published February 5th 2013 by ATOM

The only way of hearing her mother, Mrs Barnaclegoose, and the stranger was from inside the dumbwaiter. Mrs Barnaclegoose had decided opinions on reforming other women’s daughters. Sophronia did not want to be reformed. So she had pressed the dumbwaiter into the service of espionage.

Summary from Good Reads

Fourteen-year-old Sophronia is a great trial to her poor mother. Sophronia is more interested in dismantling clocks and climbing trees than proper manners—and the family can only hope that company never sees her atrocious curtsey. Mrs. Temminick is desperate for her daughter to become a proper lady. So she enrolls Sophronia in Mademoiselle Geraldine's Finishing Academy for Young Ladies of Quality. But Sophronia soon realizes the school is not quite what her mother might have hoped. At Mademoiselle Geraldine's, young ladies learn to finish...everything. Certainly, they learn the fine arts of dance, dress, and etiquette, but they also learn to deal out death, diversion, and espionage—in the politest possible ways, of course. Sophronia and her friends are in for a rousing first year's education.

*******

Review by K.M.Lockwood

With a title like that and a cover that shows a young lady in a crinoline armed with scissors, you know what to expect. Not to mention the cog-decorated magenta damask background. 

Gail Carriger delivers an adventure set largely in a steampunk girls’ finishing school with great gusto and humour. Full of idiosyncratic faux-Victorian language and gloriously extravagant settings (who could forget the dirigible academy?), there is a strong core of personal relationships and intrigues that you would expect in a school story. There are also a fair few moments of comedy verging on the slapstick at times (which is not a fault) and the merest hintette of romance.

Not content with an alternative 19th century, we also have Supernaturals such as werewolves and vampires - and mechanimals including the dear little Bumbersnoot. A heady mix. For my part, I particularly enjoyed the range of active, self-determining female characters. The only reason for these girls swooning at a man is artifice (or perhaps too-tight corsets).

You will appreciate this romp of a story if you like adventure, peril and smart girls. The ideal reader would also enjoy interesting and perhaps unfamiliar language at times, and have a soft spot for writers who don’t take their work too seriously. Great fun - and plenty more to come in the series.

The Big Break with Sharon Gosling

To celebrate the publication of the first book from the new publisher Curious Fox, I am really pleased to welcome debut author Sharon Gosling onto the blog to discuss her writing journey to publication of The Diamond Thief which is published today! *throws glitter at Sharon to celebrate*

I would love to know a little about your writing journey. What did you do before writing books?

I’m really lucky in that I’ve always made my living from writing in some form. I always knew I wanted to be an author, but I also knew I had to be able to support myself while I tried to make that happen. So while I was still at school I started doing interviews and articles for a local magazine. Then I started writing book and TV reviews for a national magazine. I did that all through university and when I left, the same company took me on as a staff writer. A couple of years later they gave me a couple of magazines to edit, and then I started writing non-fiction books about TV shows for them. About seven years ago I went freelance to try and pursue my fiction properly, and for a while I worked as a producer, writer and director on some audio drama series, which taught me a lot about dialogue and structure, and I was lucky enough to work on a couple of things for Random House that also gave me valuable experience. Now, in between writing, I also work as a sub-editor on various magazines like heat, Closer, Look and more!. 

Your debut book, The Diamond Thief, is about to be published. How are you feeling right now? 

It’s both exciting and nerve-wracking, to be honest. I’m far more excited about seeing this on shelves than any of the other books I’ve written, because it’s actually ‘mine’, but I’m also nervous. This is

what I’ve wanted to do for so long… but what if it turns out I’m no good at it and people don’t like the book? Terrifying!

Can you tell us a little bit about the book for my readers who have yet to set eyes on it?

It’s set in Victorian London and tells the story of Rémy Brunel, a French circus performer who also happens to be the world’s best gem thief. She’s brought to London by her evil master to steal a huge diamond, but runs up against a determined young detective called Thaddeus Rec. Together they discover dastardly deeds going in the city’s East End.

Where did you get your inspiration from for it?

I actually first began working on the idea as a plot of an adult science fiction novel that was different in almost every respect apart from the fact that it was set in London’s East End. Rémy slowly morphed into a younger character, and the setting became Victorian London. The key came when I realised that a circus would be the perfect place for Rémy to have learned and developed her skills. And I loved the idea of a gem thief and a young detective having to find some way to help each other despite their natural antipathy. Opposites, as they say, attract.

How long did it take you to write?

It took 11 weeks. I know that, because it was originally written as a choose-your-own adventure ebook for a great company called Fiction Express. The idea was that each week, I would write a chapter which would be posted on line for people to read. At the end of each chapter, there would be three choices of where the plot could go in the next chapter for readers could vote on. Then I’d go away and write the next chapter according to what they had chosen. For me, it was hard work but brilliant, because it meant that I had deadlines. I’ve worked to deadlines my whole life, but without them I struggle to ever finish anything. This way I didn’t have a choice! Were there times when you felt that it would never get published? If so, how did you work your way through them? To be honest, I never really expected the book to be picked up for print. For me, the writing of the book for Fiction Express was a massive learning curve, and a personal boost in itself because I actually had achieved what I’d always wanted to do, albeit in ebook form. So I kind of forgot about the possibility that it might somehow turn into a physical book until I got an email telling me that Curious Fox were interested in taking it on.

Were you given any good writing advice that you would like to share with my readers?

“Write tight” is always a good thing to remember. Less is always more. Also, I always say that you must write every day. It doesn’t matter what it is or even how much - some days you’ll only manage a sentence. But make it a habit, and don’t break it. It’s also good to remember that even if you only have time to write 200 words a day, if you do that every day for a year, you’ll have a pretty chunky manuscript at the end of it. Easier said than done, I know! 

What was your first reaction when you found out your book was to be published?

I think it was probably an email to my husband with the words ‘Squee!’ included in it somewhere!

Did you find it easy to get an agent?

I actually don’t have an agent, and never have done. I really should actively try to get one. I find the idea of the approaches daunting, though. It’s been said before that it’s harder to get an agent than it is to get a publisher, and I guess I’m proof of that.

How long did was it between the initial deal and publishing day?

Between Curious Fox taking an interest and publishing day was I guess about a year, perhaps a little more. 

What are you working on at the moment?

Curious Fox are interested in a sequel to The Diamond Thief, so I’m working on a synopsis for that at the moment. Fingers crossed I can come up with something they like! I’m also working on two graphic novels, which is a bit of a departure for me, but I’m really enjoying it. 

Who is the one person that cheered you on and supported you through your writing?

My husband, Adam. He encourages me to write every day - he even told me I should when we were on honeymoon. About four years ago, he found a novel I’d written online, formatted it and got it printed, to prove to me that I could do (and indeed had already done) it. He’s also the person who told me I should pitch Rémy to Fiction Express in the first place. He’s brilliant, and I don’t deserve him.

What advice would you give to aspiring and unpublished authors?

Perseverance is the key. It’s hard to retain faith in your ability when writing is an essentially lonely occupation, but just keep going. Every writer in the world hits the writer’s equivalent of the runner’s ‘wall’ at some point - that moment when you stare at what you’ve written and become disheartened and demoralised and wonder why you’re bothering. Published writers are generally the ones with enough experience to recognise that it’s just part of the process. You can write through it. Remember that if you’ve got something finished, it’s always going to be there. You can always go back and rework it. Just keep going!

The Diamond Thief by Sharon Gosling goes on sale today! I will be reviewing it in the next few days.

Book Summary

No one performs on the circus trapeze like sixteen-year-old Remy Brunel. But Remy also leads another life, prowling through the back streets of Victorian London as a jewel thief. Forced by the evil circus owner Gustave to attempt the theft of one of the world's most valuable diamonds, she discovers an underworld of treachery and fiendish plots.

Meanwhile, young detective Thaddeus Rec is determined to find the jewel and clear his name. Will Thaddeus manage to rescue the jewel? Or is it really Remy that he needs to save?

 

To find out more about Sharon Gosling:

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The Infernal Devices: Clockwork Angel by Cassandra Clare

Graphic novel artwork & adaptation by HyeKyung Baek

Yen Press 2012

240 pages 

 Summary from GoodReads

The Infernal Devices is the story of Tessa Gray, a sixteen-year-old American girl travelling alone to Victorian London who runs afoul of the city's sordid supernatural underworld. Rescued by the Shadowhunters of the London Institute, Tessa quickly finds herself caught up in an intrigue that may very well destroy her new friends - including the two enigmatic young men, Jem and Will, who have taken her under their wing...

Reviewed by K. M. Lockwood

This manga adaptation of a prequel to Cassandra Clare’s Mortal Instruments series is both stylish and popular in appeal. There are a few full colour images but it is largely presented in dramatic black and white. South Korean artist HyeKyung Baek’s combination of stylised Victoriana and distinctly Asiatic drawings make an intriguing Steampunk effect.

The bare essence of the plot is briskly conveyed through dialogue and action. There are supernatural creatures and science fiction elements as well as deceit and secrets. All good stuff for this genre.

From to time, the artist uses chibis. These are diminutive, almost childlike, versions of the main characters which show heightened emotions. Anime and manga fans will already know this technique -it was only because I had a little book on how to draw anime style that I knew! Occasionally, I found the order of scenes hard to follow - but then, she didn’t really design it for me. 

Nonetheless, the layout of some pages is striking and artistic, and I suspect many girls will find two of the male characters cool and appealing, as well as rooting for our brave heroine. Younger children could be frightened by some of the creatures and events but the use of monochrome does make it less gory than it might otherwise be. My one criticism of the production values is that the soft back cover is prone to curling and wouldn’t last long in a teenager’s bag.

This book would be ideal for teenage fans of Steampunk who like a fast-paced adventure in an alternative 19th century London but who would be put off by large amounts of text.

Pantomime by Laura Lam

Image from Goodreads

Pages 392

Published by Strange Chemistry on 5th February 2013

'Well, boy,' the ringmaster said.'What can you do?'

I swallowed. The clown who had found me eavesdropping tightened his grip on my shirt. 

'Pardon?' I asked. 

He chuckled.'don't tell me you're simple. What can you do? Are you a fire-eater? An acrobat? A freak?'

Goodreads Summary

R. H. Ragona’s Circus of Magic is the greatest circus of Ellada. Nestled among the glowing blue Penglass—remnants of a mysterious civilisation long gone—are wonders beyond the wildest imagination. It’s a place where anything seems possible, where if you close your eyes you can believe that the magic and knowledge of the vanished Chimaera is still there. It’s a place where anyone can hide.

Iphigenia Laurus, or Gene, the daughter of a noble family, is uncomfortable in corsets and crinoline, and prefers climbing trees to debutante balls. Micah Grey, a runaway living on the streets, joins the circus as an aerialist’s apprentice and soon becomes the circus’s rising star.

But Gene and Micah have balancing acts of their own to perform, and a secret in their blood that could unlock the mysteries of Ellada.

*********

This book is a gift wrapped mystery. The more you delve into the layers, the more surprises you discover. To the point, where on finishing the book, I just sat back feeling quite blown away. At first I was convinced I was reading a book to rival Night Circus, but this book is far too unique to be compared to any other. It is set in a circus, but one reminiscent of the grand circuses of the past, adding a hint of Water for Elephants to the flavour of it.

Circus life is hard and the author expresses that so well through her words. Even though the circus is set in a fantasy world reminiscent of our Victorian era, yet I believe it is set in the future, due to the magical qualities of certain coveted artifacts. It could almost be steam punk, but something I can't put my finger on stops me from labelling it that. 

This book contains a whopping secret that makes it really difficult to review. A secret that is not obvious at all until you trip over it, and yet on flicking back through the pages hints were there, I just didn't see them.

The characters are quirky, yet vibrant, each setting fire to the page as the somersaulted through the book.

Micah will astound you and grab your heart from the start. I don't think I have met a character so complex and unique as Micah. The relationship between Micah, Aenea and Drystan is extremely absorbing and very well written. Through the progression of time, you find yourself drawn into their lives in the circus as they revolve and circle each other through different situations.

At times the story leaves you breathless, as the plot twirls you through the air at top speed. Other times you are able to stand back and reflect on everything that occurs. 

Even though this book is high fantasy, it does deal with some strong themes. Sexuality and relationships play  huge part as the story unravels. 

This truly is an  awe inspiring read, that left me breathless and desperate for more.   A unique reading experience from a very talented debut author. 

Clockwork Prince by Cassandra Clare

Pages - 496
Published by Walker Books in December 2012

'The fog was thick, muffling sound and sight. Where it parted, Will Herondale could see the street rising ahead of him, slick and wet and black with rain, and he could hear the voices of the dead.'


Goodreads Summary
In the magical underworld of Victorian London, Tessa Gray has at last found safety with the Shadowhunters. But that safety proves fleeting when rogue forces in the Clave plot to see her protector, Charlotte, replaced as head of the Institute. If Charlotte loses her position, Tessa will be out on the street and easy prey for the mysterious Magister, who wants to use Tessa's powers for his own dark ends.

With the help of the handsome, self-destructive Will and the fiercely devoted Jem, Tessa discovers that the Magister's war on the Shadowhunters is deeply personal. He blames them for a long-ago tragedy that shattered his life. To unravel the secrets of the past, the trio journeys from mist-shrouded Yorkshire to a manor house that holds untold horrors, from the slums of London to an enchanted ballroom where Tessa discovers that the truth of her parentage is more sinister than she had imagined. When they encounter a clockwork demon bearing a warning for Will, they realize that the Magister himself knows their every move and that one of their own has betrayed them.

Tessa finds her heart drawn more and more to Jem, though her longing for Will, despite his dark moods, continues to unsettle her. But something is changing in Will; the wall he has built around himself is crumbling. Could finding the Magister free Will from his secrets and give Tessa the answers about who she is and what she was born to do?

As their dangerous search for the Magister and the truth leads the friends into peril, Tessa learns that when love and lies are mixed, they can corrupt even the purest heart.

*********
*This review is for the second book in The Infernal Devices series and may contain  spoilers for the first book.*


I have always stated that I do not like steampunk, but I had an epiphany this week, when it finally dawned on me that The Infernal Devices series by Cassandra Clare is actually steampunk and I LOVED it! I think my bad experience with steampunk has now been erased from my mind and I am willing to try more.


I walked into this book on Team Will and about half of the way through the book I thought I might just defect to Team Jem, but as the final explosive chapters came and went, I knew I was still strongly in Team Will. He really is a bad, bad boy, and that is why I love him! His heart is in the right place, every time he hurts Tessa, he is doing it for a reason and within the pages of this book we finally find out why. If I was Tessa I would definitely have stuck to my guns, and stayed in Team Will. As lovely as Jem seems, he is dying peeps! He is a drug addict who will soon reach his demise! I can't see the future in that relationship can you. I felt Tessa just felt sorry for him and soon she will realise that there can only be one man for her and that is Will. I can tell I may lose followers over this, especially the Gem lovers. But come on people, you know damn well she will eventually end up with Will!

I love the humour within the book. I could not help but find Will wickedly funny. His sarcasm just leaves me in stitches. Has anyone else noticed how much Will is like  Jace from The Mortal Instruments series? Or is it just me.

Tessa really comes into her own in this book and we watch as she comes to terms with the new life she is now leading , although she is still desperate to discover her own true identity. That must be so hard for her to deal with. I felt so sorry for her as she was still trying to deal with her brother, Nate's betrayal of her. Nate really is a nasty character, who will stop at nothing to hurt the people who love him. He has no feelings at all.

The book was well written as always and kept me glued  from the first page until the last. I can't help but love the way Cassandra Clare writes. She truly is one of my favourite authors. She really knows how to dangle over the edge of a cliff, as you flail helplessly to find out what will happen. With every last page of her books, she leaves you wanting more. 

Boneshaker by Cherie Priest

Pages - 414

Published in 2009 by Tor Books.

In the aftermath of the Drill Engine's astonishing trail of destruction, a peculiar illness afflicted the reconstruction workers nearest the wreckage of the bank blocks. By all reports this illness was eventually traced to the Drill Engine tunnels, and to a gas which came from them. At first, this gas appeared odorless and colorless, but over time it built up to such an extent that it could be discerned by the human eye, if spied through a bit of polarized glass.

I coveted this book from the moment I laid eyes on it. I knew that I had to have it before all others and Father Christmas kindly answered my wishes and placed it under my tree wrapped in pretty paper and sparkling ribbon. I fell in love with the cover and imagined this book would be the one that would be read over and over again in the future. Oh how I wanted this book to be all I imagined. Alas, it was not to be! To me, this book was a complete disappointment. I am now ducking very quickly as all the fans of this book throw things at me in disgust. All I can do is apologise but I really did not enjoy this book at all.

The book sets the scene with a fictionalised chapter from a history book, explaining the reason for the invention of the Boneshaker machine by Leviticus Blue. Russian prospectors had commissioned him to create a machine that could mine through the ice. Unfortunately on it's trial run it destroyed large parts of Seattle and opened an underground cavern which allowed a deadly gas to invade the city which turned the inhabitants into zombies if they breathed it in. A wall was quickly built to keep the gas from spreading any further through the country.

The book then moves forward sixteen years to life outside the walled city. The story focuses on Blue's widow Briar and their teenage son, Ezekiel. Ezekiel is desperate to clear his father's name and decides to enter the gas ridden city to rewrite history. Once Briar discovers his quest, she follows him to try and bring him back alive.

The story line appealed to me so much, yet as I read it I found I had no enthusiasm or excitement for the story. I found the storyline took forever to get going and I really was bored with the book. It actually took me weeks to read it and I just kept plodding on. All the action seemed to occur at the end of the book. I didn't connect with any of the characters, as I just kept thinking they were daft to enter such a dangerous area, especially as there seemed no love lost from them for Levictus Blue.

After having a few weeks to think over the book, I just think that steam punk and zombies are just not for me. It is a genre that doesn't rattle my cage! I know a lot of other bloggers loved this book and I would highly recommend others to read it, but personally it just wasn't for me and I couldn't see what everybody else loved about it. I will be steering clear of steam punk for the foreseeable future.

Other reviews of this book.

Stainless Steel Droppings

Karin's Book Nook