The Shadow Revolution

The Shadow Revolution: A Penny Dreadful Review

            As I strolled through a bookstore, a copy of The Shadow Revolution, by Clay and Susan Griffith, fell into my hands. I opened it and delved into a great supernatural adventure full of werewolves and mad scientists. I purchased this book and spent several hours in its company.

            Alchemist Kate Anstruther must seek out spell-caster Simon Archer for help when her sister is abducted by a baddie with blood sacrifice on his mind. While they’re hunting werewolves and imps, they unravel a frightening conspiracy. There’s lots of impressive magic involved, and later, certain characters engage in a moonlit motorcycle chase.

Simon and Kate have a refreshing and solid relationship. I love the banter between them. They work quite well together, and I enjoy their scenes.

Unfortunately, I found it hard to get a sense of the secondary characters. One can see a general outline of what their personalities are supposed to be, yet close up they seem inconsistent.

            I give The Shadow Revolution three and a half gears out of five. It is the first in a series entitled Crown and Key, and I would certainly be amenable to reading what comes next. Pick up The Shadow Revolution for an adventure with some truly exceptional scenes.

Your Correspondent From The Bookstore,

Penny J. Merriweather

Cyrus Darian and the Technomicron

Cyrus Darian and the Technomicron: A Penny Dreadful Review

I couldn't tell you why Cyrus Darian is such a compelling character. I should hate him. He's callous and depraved, selfish and cruel, bosom buddies with a prince of Hell, and a womanizer. Yet he has a "deadly charisma," an odd compassion for his team, and an insatiable curiosity that I love. Once Raven Dane's anti-hero hears about a mysterious tome called the Technomicron, he can't resist the chase. And I couldn't resist this book.

Arranged in short, action-packed nuggets, Cyrus Darian and the Technomicron is easy to "just one more chapter" all night. Full of twists and adventures, it is a sheer delight to read. The plot, much like the main character, does not always tread the expected dance. This can be a bit disorienting, but it's a hell of a ride.

Raven Dane creates brilliant characters. From the gambling inventor Hardwick to the tortured and beautiful Prince Belial, each is unforgettable and unique. Even minor players shine. Fancy Dan, a brute that appears in about three scenes, has a backstory, dreams, and life (well, until he dies).

The Victorian Steampunk Society voted this book the best novel of 2011. They certainly knew what they were talking about. This book contains horror, sex, and a very bad man - and that's just the hero! I give Cyrus Darian and the Technomicron four and a half gears out of five. The best part is that it is the beginning of a series!

Your Correspondent From The Bookstore,

Penny J. Merriweather