Have you heard of steampunk genre in books?
I had never heard of it till 2 months back when someone suggested the Leviathan series and said that it is a steampunk novel. I remember thinking what does steampunk even mean. I know about punk which is like a loud, fast-moving, and aggressive form of rock music. I was a bit skeptical whether the books were also going to be that kind which I am not a fan of. But then I decided to just read the synopsis to get an idea about the book and the blurb looked good enough. The books were also available at the library and so I thought I will give it a try.
Now for those of you who don’t know what a steampunk genre is. According to Wikipedia, steampunk is a sub-genre of science fiction or science fantasy that incorporates technology and aesthetic designs inspired by 19th-century industrial steam-powered machinery. I had to google it!
Synopsis
The books are set in alternate World War I where German Central Powers (Clankers) use mechanized war machines opposed to British Entente Powers (Darwinists) who fabricate living creatures genetically. Prince Aleksander, would-be heir to the Austro-Hungarian throne, is on the run. His own people have turned on him. His title is worthless. All he has is a battle torn war machine and a loyal crew of men. Deryn Sharp is a commoner, disguised as a boy in the British Air Service. She’s a brilliant airman. But her secret is in constant danger of being discovered. With World War I brewing, Alek and Deryn’s paths cross in the most unexpected way, taking them on a fantastical, around-the-world adventure that will change both their lives forever.
My take
I am so glad that the word steampunk didn’t stop me from reading these books. I loved them. Especially the characters of both Aleksander and Deryn. Most of the times when I read a book I keep thinking this should not have happened this way or they could have said something different. But this is a book where I would not want anything to be changed. Everything is perfect just the way they are. All the three books were equally good. There was never a dull moment where you start thinking when will this finish.
I was waiting for when Aleksander would find out that Deryn is a girl. Both of their characters are complex yet very relatable. I fell in love with them instantly. Like them, I also loved the Leviathan air ship which is huge. I could picture myself walking through the corridors along with Deryn. At the end of each book, the author also tells us which part of the book is true and which are fiction. This is quite insightful.
Rating
My rating for all the books are 5⭐ and I would definitely recommend these books. I might also reread them sometime in the future.