The Iron Duke by Meljean Brook Series: The Iron Seas #1
Published by Berkley on October 5, 2010
Genres: Steampunk
Pages: 384
Format: Paperback
Source: Purchased
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After the Iron Duke freed England from Horde control, he instantly became a national hero. Now Rhys Trahaearn has built a merchant empire on the power - and fear - of his name. And when a dead body is dropped from an airship onto his doorstep, bringing Detective Inspector Mina Wentworth into his dangerous world, he intends to make her his next possession.
But when Mina uncovers the victim's identity, she stumbles upon a conspiracy that threatens the lives of everyone in England. To save them, Mina and Rhys must race across zombie-infested wastelands and treacherous oceans-and Mina discovers the danger is not only to her countrymen, as she finds herself tempted to give up everything to the Iron Duke.
I have a short list of books I’ve tagged as “Always Re-reading.” Those are the books where just looking at the cover, let alone reading them again, brings a smile to my face and gives me the warm-fuzzies. I recently re-read my all-time favorite steampunk novel and was overwhelmed by how amazing it was and now I want everyone to read this book and experience, what I think, is the best example of this genre, EVER. The Iron Duke, the first book in the Iron Seas Series, was my first and favorite foray into this genre. It is mystery and high-adventure with a poignant love story set in a extraordinary, elaborate world.
The Iron Duke, as with all steampunk, portrays an alternate history around the industrial revolution. The politics, social hierarchy, and general terms, such as bugs or Bounders, are confusing at first, but details are revealed chapter by chapter to further the understanding of the entire world. While there are mechanical automatons and giant airships, there is an aspect of the technology that is dark and frightening with definite dystopian overtones. The how and why of it are as essential as the descriptions of the devices and creatures themselves. The Iron Seas world is complex with a logical, if fantastical, history and future. In short, the Mongolian Empire doesn’t fracture in the thirteenth century, but survives to conquer most of Eurasia and Africa. The Horde is ruthless and generous, either destroying or subjugating entire countries. England has recently overthrown 200 years of Horde rule, although the scars of occupation, both literally and figuratively, run deep.
Meljean Brook takes this richly developed world and fills it with compelling characters. Mina is an everyday hero. Despite dealing with extreme prejudice at almost every turn, she is dedicated to her job as a detective inspector. Rhys is a National hero. His suicide run on the controlling tower in London ended the Horde’s reign over England. When a sinister plan threatens to steal back the hard-won freedom of the British people, and possibly the world, these two different heroes must work together to keep the Horde at bay.
With the intricate world-building and the action-packed plot, the love story could have easily been rushed or forgotten altogether. Thankfully, this is not the case. The relationship between Rhys and Mina develops naturally, from wary, reluctant allies, to passionate lovers willing to sacrifice themselves for each other.
The Iron Duke is a swashbuckling, riotous romp through a finely woven world of steam and steel. There are rabid zombies, dashing Corsair captains, daring adventurers, and fantastic beasts. It has the complex texture of a well-developed work of science fiction, with the flair and fashion of the fantasy genre. It has the societal restrictions of a Victorian novel with the breath-stealing romance of an epic love story. It is beautifully crafted and not one to be missed.
Note: There is an excellent page on Meljean Brook’s website with information on The Iron Seas Series, prequel novellas and general world information.
About Meljean Brook
Meljean was raised in the middle of the woods, and hid under her blankets at night with fairy tales, comic books, and romances. She left the forest and went on a misguided tour through the world of accounting before focusing on her first loves, reading and writing-and she realized that monsters, superheroes, and happily-ever-afters are easily found between the covers, as well as under them, so she set out to make her own.
Meljean lives in Portland, Oregon with her husband and daughter.
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I've developed a preference for audiobooks over the last few years, which allow me to complete chores, run carpool, or work on my many building and craft projects while 'reading.
My all time favorite selections include Diana Gabaldon's Outlander series, Karen Marie Moning's Fever series, and all of Robin Hobb's books set in the Farseer world. Honorable mentions to Elle Kennedy, Penny Reid, Meljean Brook, Ann Aguirre, Krista and Becca Ritchie, Jeaniene Frost, and Kristen Callihan.
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Always Re-reading, I really like that idea for a shelf name since I have a few of those too.
I like the steampunk genre idea I just haven’t read much in it yet, but this seems like something I’d be interested in.
Wow. You really loved this. When an author can make everything work so great with the first book in their series, they have done their job!
This was a great series. I read most of the series last year and finally finished the last published book this January. Even the little novellas are great. My favorite was Jaz and Archimedes story. 🙂
Sounds like a lot of fun! I have only read a little steampunk or gaslight so far, but I’ve enjoyed the books I’ve read. I will keep this series in mind.
Great review! This sounds like one I would really enjoy and should read soon.
I really haven’t read too much in this genre but I have seen this book around over the years. I think I am going to have to add it to my wishlist after reading your review.
This author is on my list to try very soon. Great review.
Melanie @ Hot Listens & Books of My Heart