This steampunk fantasy romance was an incredibly entertaining delight from beginning to end.
It's a historical romance dressed up in some very bizarre and creative steampunk fantasy elements that are introduced as if they were the most logical and normal thing possible. It's also an alternate history story where the reign of Queen Victoria is in part possible thanks to fantastic machinery, giant robots, and airships. There is so much going on in this story that I'm amazed at how well Chatsworth manages to weave everything together into such a cohesive and entertaining read.
Every character is just the right amount of quirky to be both believable and entertaining, and the story takes off running and never lets up. Constance and Trusdale make a great foil for each other and seeing them banter and interact - particularly Constance's constantly making Trusdale want to rip out his hair - is what made this book so much fun.
Narrator Michelle Babb does a wonderful job giving each character a very distinctive accent and way of speaking so that you know exactly who's saying what at every moment. She also gives life to the characters so that you laugh, worry, and are amazed right along with them.
Overall, I'm amazed that this book hasn't gotten more hype because it perfectly hits every point I look for in both a historical romance and a good steampunk fantasy with delightful tongue-in-cheek humor that kept me glued to the story.

Very happy thanks to NetGalley and CamCat Books for the entertaining read!

Qi was given an early audiobook in exchange for an honest review. I totally enjoyed this book from beginning to end.this was an odd collaboration of characters part historical fiction, based on a strong female protagonist, mix in some steam punk and fantasy. Not something I would normally give a second glance at but something told me to just give it a chance. So glad I did and would like to read more work by Elizabeth Chatsworth. Yes, I would recommend it to others. I think middle schoolers might enjoy. Thanks to #NetGalley,,#Elizaberh Chatsworth,l, and #The Brass Queen for the advance copy.

2.5 Stars
The blurb made this book seem interesting. I was ready for a kick ass female main character. That wasn't the case here. Her awkward, cringe behavior throughout the book made me extremely uncomfortable. I had a hard time staying in the story; the book wasn't holding my interest. The love interest was more interesting to me. But I can't say I'd recommend this book. It's OK. The narration is great!

Thanks, NetGalley and Independent Book Publishers Association, for providing me with an Audiobook ARC, for an honest review.

A super-fun steampunk/spy/romcom.


Review copy provided by publisher.

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