Alexia Tarabotti is laboring under a great many social tribulations.
First, she has no soul. Second, she’s a spinster whose father is both Italian and dead. Third, she was rudely attacked by a vampire, breaking all standards of social etiquette.
Where to go from there? From bad to worse apparently, for Alexia accidentally kills the vampire–and then the appalling Lord Maccon (loud, messy, gorgeous, and werewolf) is sent by Queen Victoria to investigate.
With unexpected vampires appearing and expected vampires disappearing, everyone seems to believe Alexia responsible. Can she figure out what is actually happening to London’s high society? Will her soulless ability to negate supernatural powers prove useful or just plain embarrassing? Finally, who is the real enemy, and do they have treacle tart?
I have read this book before, but I wanted to get back into the series. Since I’ve forgotten much that went on, I went ahead and read the first one over again. I have forgotten how much fun it is.
First off, don’t let the idea of the main character, Alexia, being “soulless” throw you off. I wouldn’t say “soulless” is really an actual fact, but more like a way to describe her interesting abilities. I had trouble with that the first time I read the book. I didn’t know how I was supposed to feel about the obviously enjoyable character and her “soulless” status. Now though, it’s easy to understand. “Soulless” is more like a title or an explannation as to why she can do what she does than an actual fact.
This book has it all. There’s action, love/hate, fashion, and humor. I found myself laughing a lot more this go around. I love Lord Maccon and Alexia’s interactions. It is definitely one that romance lovers will love. Fantasy lovers are not going to be dissuaded either. The vampires and werewolves have an interesting dynamic and meld nicely to the Victorian society. Add in the steampunk and you have a mesh of something humorous and fun.
I do have the rest of the series and it is on my list to read, but for now, those were my thoughts when I was reading.
Casia's Corner 