Clockwork Menagerie (Shadows of Asphodel #2.5)

Ms. Kincy creates a mesmerizing,sometimes charming and often dangerous alternate history fantasy set during WWI with this book. The series (Shadows of Asphodel) to which this novella belongs, takes place in Axis Germany and Austria and Allied Russia. Russia is the bad guy, which is an interesting and different perspective.

The novella is a continuation of the series, though it works as a standalone book. The characters, plot and dialogue are fine - what is outstanding in the book is Ms. Kincy's magicpunk creations. Really unique and different.

An entertaining and quick read if you are looking for a new and refreshing kind of steampunk.

3.5/5 This was a nice read, a bit underdeveloped on a personal level, but nice. What I enjoyed most is the portrayal of Russia. I know it's steampunk and I know it doesn't have to be culturally or historically accurate, and I know that inconsistencies always piss me off no matter the excuse. And yet, Clockwork Menagerie was above reproach. I was reading about Konstantin having a cup of tea on the train and it struck me, that Karen Kincy made it familiar for me, - I knew and loved this Russia, and it made me very happy.

Overall, the strength of this novella is in its world-building. The technomancy is bright and wonderful without going into too much detail, the travel is exciting, the masque ball is dangerous and beautiful.

It's the characters I wasn't happy with, they were all over the place without taking over the main plotline. Both Konstantin and Theodore lacked substance in their relationship with each other, and I found that slightly annoying.

Still, this was an enjoyable read, and the ending gave me a nice jolt. What will this couple do next?! Recommended.

Brilliant little novella.

Clockwork Menagerie is a novella within the steampunk/diselpunk world of the Shadows of Asphodel series by Karen Kincy. Short and sweet, Clockwork Menagerie takes Archmage Konstantin and Captain Himmel on a diplomatic adventure in Russia. This naturally leads curious technomancer Konstantin to the creator of the less than legal clockwork dragon, which utilizes psychothaumaturgy (the enslavement of souls for power).

Along the journey, Konstantin is still forever blushing, while battling his feelings for Himmel. Knowing it is an illegal act, Konstantin focuses on his scientific observations to distract him from the handsome zeppelin captain. But distractions turn to dire situations and caution is sometimes forgotten.

A lot of looking and no touching is involved in this diplomatic mission, both scientifically and romantically. This story is not a standalone, but a companion to the Shadow of Asphodel series. I am looking forward to the rest of the series. 4/5 stars

I received this egalley from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. 
It's really well written. Sadly, I wasn't into the romance, but this is no fault of the author. 
And I absolutely adore the characters.
My vote: 3.5 stars