Steampunk Carnival (Steam World Book 1)
by Cassandra Leuthold
4.2 stars – 5 ReviewsCrossing her boss will be one dangerous ride.
Katya Romanova gave up everything to work at the one-of-a-kind Steampunk Carnival, and she wouldn’t want to be anywhere else. Her elaborate costumes win her all the attention she seeks, including the sporadic affections of her boss, carnival owner William Warden.
But in the summer of 1887, death threats against Mr. Warden shake everyone’s sense of security. The unknown sender could harm them all. When Katya stirs up unexpected evidence proving Mr. Warden hid the carnival’s true origins, she realizes he aims to protect only himself. To return the spirit of fun and freedom to the place she loves, Katya sets out to replace Mr. Warden with the carnival’s inventor. As violent events erupt, Mr. Warden fights for strict control of his business and Katya’s loyalty. Trapped between his charm and his tyranny, Katya must pretend to comply even as she plots against him.
With the adoration of the entire country supporting Mr. Warden, nothing less than the perfect plan will succeed. One misplaced move could throw Katya’s best friend and new love into danger. Failing means neither she nor the establishment’s rightful owner ever sees the carnival again.
“What I like about Steampunk Carnival is that the corsets aren’t thrown in just to be part of the fad, and the story can stand on its own two feet without needing to have all the other bells and whistles (although, the steam elements are delightfully fun). The characters feel dynamic without being overly done, and the pacing and writing are handled well.” – Steampunk Sparrow’s Book Blog