Review: Heartless

Heartless

By Gail Carriger

Publication date: June 28, 2011

My review:

When Alexia finds out about a threat to the Queen, she begins to investigate not realizing just how close to home the investigation will take her. Is the threat from the vampires, the werewolves, the Order of the Brass Octopus, or someone else entirely? 

I am always thrilled to read the books in the Parasol Protectorate series and while this one contained the trademark wit, supernatural creatures, and steampunk elements, I was somewhat disappointed. I was able to figure out the identity of the villain early on and their motivation while understandable was not in keeping with what is known about their character. I never got the sense that Alexia was in danger the way I did while reading Changeless and Blameless. The story seemed to lack some of the suspense and mystery though there was a twist that I was not expecting.

Thankfully the humor and some new developments helped to make up for those flaws. Lord Akeldama is back in a big way and he is such a fun character. I haven't always liked Ivy's character though she adds comedic value to the series with her hats. This book hints that she may have a bigger role to fill as the series continues. The storyline with Biffy really added some emotional depth and I look forward to seeing what happens with him. We also learn more about Professor Lyall who has always been one of my favorite characters and I liked gaining a deeper understanding of who he is. The ending suggests new complications in vampire/werewolf relations with the hive queen and the introduction of a new character. Overall this was a really good book and I can't wait to read Timeless.