Review copy was received from Library. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
Kiss of Steel by Bec McMaster Narrator: Alison Larkin
Series: London Steampunk #1
Published by Tantor Audio on May 13, 2013
Genres: Steampunk
Length: 11 hours, 35 minutes
Format: Audiobook
Source: Library
Goodreads
Amazon, Audible, Libro.fm
Most people avoid the dreaded Whitechapel district. For Honoria Todd, it's the last safe haven. But at what price?
Blade is known as the master of the rookeriesâno one dares cross him. It's been said he faced down the Echelon's army single-handedly, that ever since being infected by the blood-craving he's been quicker, stronger, and almost immortal.
When Honoria shows up at his door, his tenuous control comes close to snapping. She's so...innocent. He doesn't see her backbone of steelâor that she could be the very salvation he's been seeking.
I adore the steampunk genre, and several years ago I discovered Bec McMastersâ London Steampunk series. Recently, I was surprised to find there was a connected series that I had not read. Unfortunately, it only took me two chapters into the new book to realize I remembered very little about the original series, except for the big mechanical giants. This was a perfect time for a reread, and since Iâd read Kiss of Steel the first time on my Kindle, I decided to give the audiobook a try.  Iâve really enjoyed rediscovering the characters and the exciting action in this clever blend of steampunk and paranormal romance.
A series of unfortunate events and some villainy at the highest levels of society have left Honoria Todd in a precarious position; where she is just barely holding things together for herself, her sister, and her younger brother. Sheâs desperate to stay hidden from the blue blooded society from which she hales. Her familyâs survival depends upon it. Londonâs rookeries are a safe-haven until she is noticed by its leader, Blade. She strikes a deal with the proverbial devil to ensure her familyâs continued safety, but ends up with much more than she bargained for.
Honoria is a strong, intelligent character and remains so throughout the story. Her compromises for love donât compromise her morals. Asking for and receiving help from others doesnât weaken her as a character, but allows her strength to shine in different ways. While Blade is very much the bad boy with a heart of gold, his struggle to keep his vampire side under control and his fear of losing himself to his inner demon allow him to show vulnerability and depth of emotion. The characters have great chemistry, which leads to some pretty steamy scenes.
The mythology in Kiss of Steel is an original variant on traditional vampire lore. I really enjoyed how Ms. McMasters explains vampirism, without a significant info-dump; and I like that the charactersâ knowledge is growing at the same time as the reader’s. Science and discovery play a crucial role in this book and I feel it is an essential element of the steampunk genre. Honoriaâs father, who she obviously worships, does not come across as an altogether altruistic person. Instead, it is clear heâs made some ethical concessions in the name of scientific advancement. I liked that there are flawed and ruthless characters with emotions and motivations in line with real life; even when the setting is so obviously fantastical.
There is a dark, rotten undertone to the ruling class, the Echelon, and it is from here that most of the conflict arises. The social injustice and the blatantly misogynistic mindset of the men in power immediately set my hair on end with outrage. While Kiss of Steel nicely wraps up the major plot points, there are a couple of series-long story arch that remain unresolved and shrouded in mystery.
Kiss of Steel is a well-written, action-packed novel that puts an interesting paranormal twist on the steampunk world.  It was an engaging and gripping read that leads to a satisfying HEA. It is a great start to what I know is an excellent series.
Narration:
I am glad I gave the audiobook a try this time around. I think Alison Larkin does a great job narrating the voice of Honoria, it seems as if her intonation and timbre are exactly how Honoria would speak. I was less excited by how she performed Blade and other male characters, they seemed a bit distorted. Overall, the performance was enjoyable and I could easily follow along at my standard speed of 1.2x.
Listen to the clip: HERE
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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. Â Honorable mentions to Elle Kennedy, Penny Reid, Meljean Brook, Ann Aguirre, Krista and Becca Ritchie, Jeaniene Frost, and Kristen Callihan.
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Great review I have read a few Steampunk but not alot, now i have a reason to go back to the genre đ
I loved this series and got started on the spinoff, but I need to keep listening. Alison Larkin is a fab narrator.
I love the sound of this read. I don’t think I’ve ever read a steampunk novel myself.
Lovely review!
I love this series, too!
I am so picky with steampunk but I am curious now đ