Venturess

Reviewed by: Sheila Dube - Springvale Public Library, Springvale, Southern Maine Library District

Review Date: October 17, 2017

Review

This is the second book in the "Mechanica" series. Nicolette (Nick) has established a workshop in the village through her own mechanical skills and the mysterious dark properties of ashes that she inherited from her mother. The people believe that Nick is engaged to Fin, the prince of Esting, in this "after" happy ending Cinderella story. After an attempt on Fin's life, Nick uncovers the hidden plot by Fitz to spur the king to go to war with Faerie using soldier automatons, even ones impersonating Fin and Nick. When a cryptic letter from her beloved housekeeper arrives for Nick requesting her assistance in Faerie, the Nick, Fin and Caro make the treacherous journey by airship with Nick' s menagerie of automatons hidden on board. As the fey in Faerie evaluate Nick and company's trustworthiness, dark secrets are revealed that force Nick to make some heartbreaking decisions. The interconnectedness between the three friends/lovers may be confusing for those who have not read the first book. In this installment, the three share a bed throughout their time in Faerie and it is clear the three have a loving bond, but nothing sexual is discussed. Some readers may find navigating the pronouns for Faerie folk a bit challenging. Fans of the first book and steampunk will enjoy the details and abilities of the automatons, airships and the adventure that ensues.

Overall Book Score: very good