This is not your average Cinderella retelling! Ms. Allen has such subtle nods to the original fairy tale that while they are easy to spot, they do not overwhelm or dictate the story line. The handsome prince is not royal, there is no evil step-mother, and the godmother character is far from fairy-like. However, the plot is charming and there is never a doubt that the happily-ever-after is only a lost slipper away.

Having a supernatural steampunk setting added to the not-quite-fantasy feel that was did not challenge my ability to believe. Each character has their strengths and weaknesses, each has challenges to overcome or fall victim to. It is what builds the story and drives it forward. (And the evil step-sister's Mother Gothel-esque maipulation of others just makes you love to hate her.)

This is a cozy, clean, and easy read that is a quick flight of fancy. I recommend this to anyone that enjoys fairy tale retellings, enemies to lovers stories, and fans of Gail Carriger or Kady Cross.

This is book four of Nancy Campbell Allen's Steampunk Romance series, and it's just as engaging as the other three. Emme gets to speak at the ISRO summit - during the coveted timeslot immediately prior to a midnight vote on shifter rights. After she receives a direct threat to her life, Oliver, her "number one nemesis" - the Detective Inspector who has arrested her more times than either can likely count - becomes her personal protector/bodyguard. Can she get to Edinburgh on time, even with his help?

We all knew that Oliver and Emme would turn into an enemies-to-lovers story, right? There was way too much mutual animosity simmering in that corner of the steampunk proper romance world for our author to NOT go there! It was so much fun to watch Emme's fire chip through Oliver's stoic facade.

I really enjoyed seeing so much interaction between the four friends and their spouses. It is always fun to see Miles, Daniel, Sam, and Oliver together, and it's even better now that each has a significant other (well, except for Oliver ... *wink, wink*). I also loved Emme's character. Yes, she's a firebrand. She fiercely champions her causes without even considering the potential consequences to herself. She's selfless and she ruthlessly plows through every single obstacle despite her fears. At first Oliver appears to be her direct opposite, but his relentless drive, loyalty, and personal integrity burn as hot as Emme's fierce determination - just in a different way. There are so many positive character traits between the two and they are both extremely easy to root for as the plot progresses.

Gus was a delightful surprise. I loved this little nod to Disney's Cinderella: "My name is Guster Gustavsen. Associates with a sense of humor call me Gus-Gus. Most simply call me Gus." He's such a stalwart companion.

I only have positive things to say about this book. It's everything I'd hoped for. The plot moves at a clip all the way through, with smart banter and a dry wit.

One parting comment: I would not suggest jumping directly into this story. While it might technically be considered a standalone novel, there is a pretty substantial story arc that has been building up over the previous three novels. Take the time to read Beauty and the Clockwork Beast, Kiss of the Spindle, and the Lady in the Copper gate Tower. Without that background, it would be more difficult to understand the complexities of the SRO/PSRC conflict and the shifter/vampire social injustices.

Language: very clean
Blush Factor: kisses, nothing more
Other Elements: a fair amount of light violence, along with some brief glimpses of (relatively mild) gore

Thank you, author and publisher, for sharing an advance copy of this title in exchange for an honest review! All opinions expressed are my own.

Prepare to be swept up in this action-filled story.  The writing is smooth, the plotline flawless, and the adventure is gripping.  I did not want to put this book down - Nancy Campbell Allen's plot twists and delayed character revelations kept me on my toes!  This story stands alone, although the supporting characters have delightful stories of their own, which add to character depth and which I also thoroughly enjoyed.  I appreciated that (although it is branded as an enemies-to-friends) the romance built quickly and the leads were not fighting for too much of the book. 

I received a complimentary copy of this book.  All opinions are my own.

Emme is an advocate for the rights of shifters and who has met police officer Oliver several times as he hauls her away from protests which have turned violent. Now Emme has been given a prestigious position in the organization advocating for protecting Shifters at the same time she receives a very horrible threatening letter. Emme is determined to give her speech at her organization’s gathering and Oliver has been assigned to keep her safe.

Both Emme and Oliver are brave, resourceful people dedicated to their life’s work. There were some surprises, tension, romance and plot holes in the story.

The book blurb had some errors.