Sunday, July 12, 2015

Rebel Mechanics by Shanna Swendson

She's been cast out of her own home and she's heading towards New York hoping to get a job as a governess.  She doesn't know what she'll do if she can't find one.  Verity has several interviews lined up; hopefully one of them will work.  When the train she's riding on is robbed, she gets a good look at the ring leader.  Imagine her surprise when she recognizes him as her new boss!

Macmillan Children's Publishing and Net Galley allowed me to read this book for review (thank you).  This book is being published today, so you can grab a copy now.

Those who are part of the magical group live in fancier houses and cleaner parts of the city.  Those who only human are relegated to the less prosperous side of town or the slums.  When Verity is walking to her last appointment, it appears she won't get there in time.  When a steam buggy comes through and offers her a ride, she's afraid, but she also doesn't want to be late.  She accepts, tells them where she's going and that seals her fate.  The Rebel Mechanics need an "inside" person to help them. As she helps them with what she overhears as a governess, she also gets romantically involved with one of the men.

Imagine her distress when she finds herself caring for her boss, too.  He's the young Uncle of the children she's schooling.  She's not sure why he robs people when he has so much money but then she hears that he only takes from the ones that can afford it.  He's not exactly like Robin Hood, but it makes him more exciting in her eyes.  When she realizes he's helping the Rebel cause, too, she just goes along with the charade.

This story is fast paced and busy.  Verity comes to the city as an innocent.  She quickly learns how people can use you, have less ethics than you do, and that she is an "abomination" for being part magical.  She also learns a bit about love.  I really, really like Verity.  She's an excellent character and Ms. Swendson did a very good job in creating her.

This appears to be the beginning of a new series and I can't wait to read the next book.  This is a grand adventure and a new romance is blossoming.  What more could I want?

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