Supernatural Devices

Steampunk Scarlett #1

by Kailin Gow

Scarlett was a sensible seventeen year old young lady or so everyone thought, but there was definitely more to her. The daughter of famous English Egyptologists and archeologists Theodore and Gemma Seely, she was prone to adventure and all the world had to offer.

It was the 1890s, and she had just received a letter from one of her parents' dearest friend, a certain detective who lived on Baker Street, who needed her help on a case most bizarre.

As she embarks through the supernatural side of London, ventures into the forbidden realms bordering Victorian society; often accompanied by a dashing but infuriating Lord Darthmoor; Scarlett's first case, which had seemed so innocent at first had taken a turn for the unexpected and dangerous.

Official Steampunk Scarlett Trailer:

http://youtu.be/itEiEa6Pa6U

Genres: Steampunk, Fantasy, Young Adult, Mystery, Romance, Paranormal, Vampires

262 pages, Mass Market Paperback

First published October 27, 2011

About the author

Kailin Gow is an USA Today Bestselling author, publisher, screenwriter, director, producer, and speaker with hundreds of books published. She is also the owner/founder and organizer of mega-book signing events like Rockin' Hollywood, Naughty Mafia in Las Vegas, which has featured the very top authors of Romance and drawn thousands of readers, including being in a documentary film now out on Amazon Prime.

Over 14 Million copies of her books have been downloaded around the world and translated into 25 languages. 2 of her book series, FADE Series and Red Genesis Series, has been optioned by the Academy Award-winning team behind Netflix #1 most Liked and Top 10 Netflix Original Film, Wish Dragon, also the team behind the special effects magic of Star Wars and Marvel films.

Her Worldwide Brand, Kailin Gow's Go Girl has won awards for its tv series, books, cosmetics, fashions, beauty and health products, and soon-to-be home and travel products. As of 2021, Kailin Gow's Go Girl is excited to expand into its own line of hotels, starting with a 70+ room hotel in Texas. In 2022, her books will be adapted into entertainment venues called Sparklesoup World, offered in various locations throughout the U.S. and internationally.

She has been a host on world-class stages, an invited speaker for BEA and a regular radio/TV guest for major stations. She was an official voice of AAPI, She has a TV Reality show on her as an author and personality. She is also the host and publisher of a leading author industry guide, subscription newsletter, and podcast called Authors Voices. Five of her pen names are USA Today Bestselling authors and will be traditionally published in 2022. She is also a recurring speaker/instructor of writing series and serials for professional screenwriters and producers as of 2021.

She was called an "innovating author" and an "Author as Influencer" by Goodreads executives at Book Expo America 2014 in their speech.

Kailin Gow is one of Cindy Crawford's Beauties, who is beautiful on the inside as well as the outside, along with Gabrielle Union.

She was called "a successful author who knows how to balance being an author and life" by Huffington Post. USA Today recommends her steamy romances while PBS Kids have recommended her Teen Fantasy Series.

Amazon highlighted her author success story on the homepage of Amazon.com and in their book, Transformations and was invited by Amazon to be an author spokesperson for Amazon's launch of the Kindle fire in Santa Monica.

In the publishing industry, she has written and presented many articles and workshops for major publications as well as conventions. https://www.fastcompany.com/user/kail...
and is the host/founder of the podcast and newsletter Author Voices. Additionally, she owns a law firm specializing in consumer advocacy.

Kailin Gow holds a Masters degree in Management from USC and degrees in Social Ecology (Psychology, Criminology, Sociology, and Ecology/Climate), Drama, and Film making from UC Irvine where she once ran and DJ for a radio station that helped discovered OC bands like Sugar Ray and Gwen Stefani.

Reviews

[Della · Rating 2 out of 5]

Supernatural Devices: A Steampunk Scarlett Novel #1
By Kailin Gow

** May contain spoilers!

Supernatural Devices is really more of a historical paranormal novel, rather than a steampunk novel, which makes the title very misleading. The Devices are the only steampunk elements in the book and they don’t come into the story until almost the end. Most of the book is instead about a seventeen year old girl named Scarlett Seely who has second sight, which is the ability to see things such as ghosts and other paranormal beings. She is asked to help out on a case of theft by none other than the famous Sherlock Holmes. Because of her gift, Scarlett is very good at finding things, which is why Mr. Holmes calls for her assistance. As the story goes on, you find out that the item she is searching for is, in fact, a magic ring. There is a love triangle, a kidnapping, and a few attempted surprises which were very easy to predict. While this book will appeal to any paranormal fan, it was not very original and certainly will not appeal to those looking for a steampunk book. As the series continues, it has potential to turn into a steampunk series, but Supernatural Devices was nothing more than a pretty girl deciding “do I want the vampire or the bad boy fae?” The heroine was your stereotypical beauty who had long golden hair and a beautiful body and knew how to fight anything and everything. Scarlett was a strong character but she wasn’t very unique, and she also wasn’t very smart. This would be an additional purchase to a public library system.

[Mary Ann · Rating 2 out of 5]

Read the electronic ARC from NetGalley on my Kindle. Unfortunately, I was very disappointed with Supernatural Devices (A Steampunk Scarlett Novel: Book 1) by Kailin Gow. Initially I thought it had great promise, but it fell far short of what it could have been. It felt like Gow was trying to capitalize on the latest trends in YA lit--vampires, fey, steampunk; I expect zombies and werewolves to show up in the sequel. Everything is shallow: the characters have no depth, the plot is not compelling, and the setting lacks description. It feels as though with minor changes, the story could take place in any time period--there's little that ties it to the richness of the Victorian era and it's only real claim to steampunk is the series title. Taken for what it is, a light paranormal romance, SD may draw in teen girls looking for a quick escape. Gow spells out everything for the reader--she does far more "telling" than "showing." Despite the heroine Scarlett's strong, independent young woman persona, she is almost constantly surrounded by gorgeous, admiring men (who garner the only rich descriptions in the book) who frequently have to save her. If you're looking for good, solid, engaging stories from the same era, try Kenneth Oppel's Airborn and Libba Bray's A Great and Terrible Beauty.

[Alexandra · Rating 2 out of 5]

I listened to the audio version, and I confess I fell asleep during the last portion only to wake right before the end. So, this is based upon me missing a bit near the end.

I also confess I do not enjoy stories that are mainly romances, most especially those of the current fad of teen hearthrob vampire romance variety.

So, your mileage may vary.

I did not expect this story to be great literature or the next blockbuster. I did have hopes for a fun and entertaining story, with hopefully likeable characters.

It partially delivered. It is disappointing though, because I think it had the potential to be so much better.

All the main characters are described as gorgeous - repeatedly. When a new character is introduced he/she is (surprise, surprise) gorgeous. And the characters talk to each other about how gorgeous the other is, repeatedly. This was, for me, the most annoying and distracting issue with this story. I felt I was being hit over the head, repeatedly, with the CLUE to expect a romance. With characters that were not only all unrealistically and uninterestingly attractive, but that they also lacked skillful and witty banter.

The inclusion of Sherlock Holmes is unfortunately simply a plot device, and after the needed scene he is never heard from again (although I may have missed a reappearance if it occurred in the portion I slept through). As pointed out by other reviewers, this story really is not Steampunk, and does seem to be intentional inclusion of many popular YA themes. Vampires - check. Romantic triangle - check. Steampunk - missed the mark.

The writing also gave me the impression of an inexperienced author, who still lacked a bit of polish, finesse and subtlety. I was surprised when I discovered this is not the author's first novel.

For those who want to read about a plucky and beautiful heroine, with potential romance with several gorgeous male options, with some danger and vampires thrown in, this might be a enjoyable diversion. But for Steampunk, Adventure and even Holmesian take offs I can think of better options.

Try Airborn, Enola Holmes The Case of the Missing Marquess, The Beekeeper's Apprentice, Good Morning, Irene, Lloyd Alexander's Vesper Holly series The Illyrian Adventure.

[Crazy for Books (Stephanie) · Rating 1 out of 5]

I don't like giving bad reviews, but in this case I have to as I got this book and will only get others on condition of reviewing. The character of Scarlett was interesting only because she's a strong, self sufficient young woman in the Victorian era. But that's the only saving grace for this book. The author has thrown in all the elements of the supernatural from vampires to fey and not really landing on a story. I can guess, but only from the last few pages of the book that Scarlett has some sort of ability that an old Order of Vampires wants her to use to help them in order to rule the world, but I'm not even clear if Scarlett is human or not.

It starts with the idea that she's connected to Sherlock Holmes through a friendship with her parents, who are archeologists, but he's barely in the book and you only realize later that it was some actor playing him, but using a glamour, which is attributed to the Vampires, but the fey are the creatures who are supposed to do that.

Also, Scarlett can't seem to resist kissing every gorgeous man who comes into her path. And they are all gorgeous. I just don't get this book at all. The story is all over the place, I have no idea what it was trying to accomplish. The best thing about it was that it was only about 240 pages could be read quickly.

[Cheri · Rating 2 out of 5]

I thought this had promise after reading the sample. It had a young girl who was going to be working for Sherlock Holmes on a case. There was some interesting chemistry between the girl and Cruces. Once I bought the book though, it all deteriorated. It was definitely "supernatural"--there were vampires and fey and ghosts and other "gifts." most of the book involves the one male lead or another kissing this poor girl and putting their "mark" on her. It was so ridiculous that it would be worth one star, but I really did like the sample...it was a good enough concept that I gave a second star for potential.

[Mlpmom (Book Reviewer) · Rating 4 out of 5]

I always like to read Kailin Gow's series to see what new spin or twist she will put on a theme whether it be vampires or witches or fey.
So I was pretty excited to see that she was coming out with a steampunk series because even though I am new to the genre I really like what I have read so far.

And this just isn't steampunk (although, I will admit it is pretty light in that area as far as steampunk goes, so light in fact that I think people who don't like steampunk will still really enjoy this series and be interested in it) this is steampunk with a supernatural twist. Steampunk with vampires and fairies and all beings of the unknown. This is steampunk with, well, spunk.

As with all Gow novels we have a fantastic heroine who is no wussy female waiting for a man to save her or come to her rescue. Instead we get a woman who is fierce and smart and knows how to be tough when she needs to be, act like a lady when it is appropriate and be a warrior when needed. Someone who doesn't fit the ideals of a gentlewoman in London in the late 1800's where this novel is set.

I love the Sherlock and Watson spin on this series, how Scarlett knows them and works with them to help solve cases and as she is about to get her very first solo case to work on things don't always go as planned. In fact, it is downright chaos in the making.

Of course this being a Gow novel we have a love triangle, or maybe love rectangle is more appropriate, or love square? Either way we get some very swoon worthy and even supernatural men for Scarlett to choose from. Each great in their own way and even a little dangerous and mysterious as only Gow knows how to write them.

I really enjoyed this read, even more than I thought I would if I am being completely honest.

I will most definitely be buying the second book when it comes out in a few months and I can't wait to see what adventures are in store for Scarlett as the series continues. Who Scarlett will end up with, what her powers will show and what the future will hold for this feisty detective and her friends.

[Miranda Merrill · Rating 4 out of 5]

I have wanted to read a book by Kailin Gow for a while now. I am glad I finally got the chance to read one of her books. Supernatural Devices was an enjoyable quick read. I felt myself get pulled in from the very first pages. The book is fairly short compared to what I am used to, but I found in the end the length was perfect. It answered questions and left enough questions to have me wanting to read the next book in the series.
Supernatural Devices is about Scarlett a seventeen year old young lady. Being raised in 1890’s London. She is off on an expedition with her famous Egyptologists and archaeologists parents when she gets a letter from a family friend none other than Sherlock Holmes saying he needs Scarlett’s help on a case most bizarre. She returns home to London to help and embarks on a journey through the supernatural side of London.
This story was pretty basic on the supernatural, but I still found it very intriguing. The author builds a very believable world. I found the story to be a light read which with all the bigger darker books out there today it was nice to change it up a bit. I also enjoyed all the love interest in this story it makes you wonder who Scarlett is going to end up with at the end of her journey. Scarlett was also a very likeable character and she wasn’t a weak heroine she definitely wasn’t afraid to get her hands dirty. I really felt like I was on the streets of London right there beside Scarlett. This being my first book I have read by Kailin Gow I truly hope her other books are just as interesting as this one. I will definitely be keeping my eyes out for her book. Overall this was a great read. I will definitely be tuning in to see where Scarlett’s adventures take her next. I also want to the Sparklesoup inc., TheEdgebooks.com, and Netgalley for allowing me to review this book.

[Becky Soledad · Rating 3 out of 5]

*Copy provided by NetGalley*

What I Liked: I really liked the character of Scarlett. She was smart and adventurous. She was a fairly strong young woman who used her wits and special abilities to help Sherlock Holmes solve mysteries. She is unofficially apprenticed to the great detective and is eager to learn all that she can from him. It was a fun story with some adventure and romance. The mystery was fairly predictable but still enjoyable. We are left with a sort of cliff hanger ending so I am looking forward to the next installment. Even though I would classify this as fantasy, with all the gypsies, vampires, and other beastly creatures of the night I still enjoyed it. The steampunk wasn't apparent until the end and then only in minimal amounts. So be forewarned.

What I Didn't Like: Cliff hangers...ugh. They often frustrate and annoy me. I just want to know what happens next! (I didn't dislike the ending it's just that cliff hangers annoy me.) The instant love connection. Once again we have love triangle where all the boys are attracted to the lead female, instantly, without getting to know her. Of course she is instantly attracted to both of them and kisses them often. Most of the book felt like a great big introduction to a series, which it is but it could have been made less obvious.

Verdict: I enjoyed the book despite not being the steampunk I expected it was still an entertaining and fun read. I can't put it in my library but would be a welcome edition to a junior or senior high library where there is an audience for paranormal romances.

[Rachel Wu · Rating 4 out of 5]

I found out about this book through reading through the book reviews on YA-holic. I was immediately intrigued because of the word Steampunk. For those of you that don’t know, Steampunk is a genre in science fiction where steam power is widely used instead of electricity. Steampunk stories ususally take place in the Victorian period of Britain, or the Wild West of the United States (for more info on steampunk check out wikipedia). I personally love Steampunk and think it is an extremly interesting genre of science fiction.

Within the first few pages of reading Supernatural Devices I was completely hooked. Scarlett Seely is one of the strongest female characters I have read in YA novel in a very long time. She is extremely sassy, and is not a pushover that most heroines of YA novels are.

Not only are the characters in this book great and believable, the story itself is very entertaining. I absolutely loved how Gow combined Steampunk elements with the paranormal like vampires and fey. It seems as if this was a natural step in the Steampunk universe that writers should have gone in long ago.

I honestly could not put this book down, so I highly recommend it!

[Charlotte · Rating 4 out of 5]

Scarlet (FMC) is a modern girl in an old fashioned time. 1890 to be exact. With family friends like Sherlock Holmes and Watson she jumps at the chance to help them when they ask for it. What she doesnt plan on is that this will suck her into a Supernatural World and unlocks some talents that she didnt realise she had as well as the ones that she did. Everyone seems to have an ulterior motive in this book. If you keep an open mind and opinion its not a bad read finding out what they are. A good start to the series and a good read too

[Lisa Kizer · Rating 2 out of 5]

😂 OMG this book is sssoooo cheesy. Scarlett kisses every male in the book but Gordon and she’s surprised when she’s called a whore, not that kissing means anymore is a whore but she is kissing one right after another.

[Traci · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was my first read by Kailin Gow; I was pleasantly surprised by the first of the Steampunk Scarlett series.

Paranormal, Steampunk, Amateur-Mystery, Young Adult series.

What a delectable vampire, gorgeous gypsy man, chivalrous English gentleman and the most noted detective of all-time have in common?

Miss Scarlett Seely, a young woman seventeen and of proper breeding, is one who has been exposed to many peculiarities in her short lifetime. She has traveled to Egypt and is accompanying her parents on an excavation in Egypt. Having been afforded exposure to intriguing and exotic lands due to her parents obsession, passion and careers as antiquarians, she appreciates their passion -- just not their excitement. Scarlett never understood why they would want to seek the past. It is 1890 and her future awaits. She longs for adventure, preferably in London. Serendipity lends a hand. No sooner than her contemplation of what adventures were transpiring without her - she receives a telegram. A long time friend and associate of her parents, Sherlock Holmes, has requested her presence and assistance, in London, on a matter of great urgency. Obtaining a quick blessing of approval from her parents and she was off. The moment Scarlett steps off her train her adventures begin...

This story is full of dashingly handsome young gentlemen tripping over one another. All trying to protect this beauty, Miss Seely, from all the unknown dangers that lurk in the mist and darkness. Scarlett has a unique "gift" or ability that comes in handy for this particular case of Mr. Holmes'. Scarlett strong-willed, hard headed and determined to prove herself an invaluable, capable asset to Mr. Holmes. She will rush head-long into this case, devil be damned, delving into the unknown sides of London. Even she may be surprised at what secrets London is holding.


This story is one I found myself captivated by. Although it may have some predictability, it definitely is a fun read. The love triangle maybe is more of a square, not all as it seems. How many young women would love to have so many men trying to rescue them?

[Stephanie · Rating 1 out of 5]

1.5 stars.

Rounded down because the last 20% of this ebook was sneak previews of other books by this author.

There are several things about this book that annoy me. Let me list them for you.

1- False advertising. This is not steampunk. Nor does it really involve Sherlock Holmes in any real capacity.

2- Scarlett is not your typical "silly" Victorian girl. Or so we are told... repeatedly. And I do mean REPEATEDLY. And it's something that everyone around her feels the need acknowledge (or to tell anyone who dares assume her to be incapable of -anything-)

3- Scarlett in general. She claims to be better than other girls her age, those silly little things who care so much about manners, appearance, and finding a good husband; but she corrects other people's bad manners, thinks about her clothes and looks, and is very interested in members of the opposite sex. And speaking of men, nearly every male is in love with her (and willing to fight over/for her). This causes every female character (not that there are many) to be jealous of her beauty and ability to enchant men.

3A- Silly Heroine Syndrome. For such a clever girl she's very oblivious and she makes a lot of stupid decisions.

4- Faux Victorian setting. I hate stories that repeatedly (there's that word again) mention a societal limitation but have people casually break it with no consequences. Many YA historical and steampunk novels have this problem, it's a sign of lazy writing and can only be overcome by the book being independently amazing in at least one other way or by the author not acknowledging the limitations at all. Neither of which is the case with this book.

5- The men. Simply put, they are possessive jerks. But they're also hot, so apparently that doesn't matter.

6- The characters in general are pretty one dimensional.

All of that said, I couldn't get through the whole thing. I read everything through chapter 14, then skipped ahead and read the last chapter. Normally I'd round up for that, but this book was such a huge letdown that I just can't.

[Amy · Rating 4 out of 5]

Scarlett Seely is in Egypt with her parents, who are archaeologists. She really doesn’t want to be there and is glad when she gets a letter from Sherlock Holmes wanting her help on a case in London. When she’s in London, she heads out to meet him. As she’s outside, two thieves grab her bag. She chases after them, when all of a sudden a man sticks out his foot, so he can retrieve her bag. The man, Cruces, just happens to be the client that Scarlett is supposed to help.

Apparently, his servant, Cecilia, took his ring, so he’s trying to find her. As he is walking her home, they spot her and chase after her, but she gets away. Cruces continues to say anything that will rile her feathers. When she lives in a huff, she finds an old woman on the street that appears to know where Cecilia is. The old woman isn’t who she appears to be. In reality, it’s Cecilia’s brother, Tavian. He does take Scarlett to see Cecilia, and Scarlett convinces her to let her see the ring.

After a short time, Scarlett realizes someone’s behind her, and she immediately feels sleepy. She was chosen for the case for her ability to see the supernatural, but is this case more than she can handle?

I’m really not too familiar with steampunk fiction because this is the first one I’ve read. At first, I wasn’t for sure if I’d like it or not because I usually like books that are set in the present. I really ended up enjoying this one.

I’m usually pretty sure who I like more in Kailin’s books, but on this one I’m not so sure. I can say for now Rothschild is in dead last, but that could change in later books. I do think Tavian is really nice, but Cruces can be a rake and somewhat nice at the same time. I might like Cruces a little more just because I liked it when he tried to rile up Scarlett.

[Brandy · Rating 4 out of 5]

Supernatural Devices is set in London during the Victorian era. Scarlett, however, is not the typical female from the time period that you would envision. She is a tough girl who has been trained in self-defense and fighting. She is also very smart and helps Holmes in some of his case because her powers of deduction are also finely honed. She is also blessed with a gift that allows her to see the supernatural that is around her - including ghosts and vampires.
When Scarlett gets called home from an archaeological dig with her parents to help Holmes on the case to retrieve a missing ring, she gets firmly drawn into the supernatural underbelly of London and into the dealings of a ruthless group called The Order. While on her journey to solve the case, she will also find herself torn between two very different men that will be instrumental to saving her from The Order and retrieving the ring.
I really loved this book and first installment to the Steampunk Scarlett series. The way that Kailin Gow combined the elements of the supernatural genre with the steampunk was really intriguing and interesting to me. She managed to merge them in a way that felt believable. I also really loved Scarlett as a character; she was feminine, but she was also fresh and brazen. She's no wallflower, and I liked seeing her take charge. Cruces and Tavian also make great heroes - dark, mysterious and intriguing.
After reading the first one, I was very anxious to read the second. However, I went to bn.com to purchase for my Nook and discovered that they aren't available in Nook version. Now, I'm a very disappointed girl.

[G · Rating 5 out of 5]

Scarlett, the daughter of world traveling archeologists, sees more that most and is open to new ideas and oddities. When family friend contacts Scarlett to return home from another boring trip, Scarlett is thrilled. Her parents agree because they know and love Holmes’s, so she moves quickly to get home. A thief steels Scarlett’s satchel from the steps of Holmes’s house kicking off a series of events that stretch even Scarlett’s mind and put her in danger. Scarlett discovers that she has a lot to learn and discern from those around her, but then since she sees figures from the spirit world, perhaps she should not be too surprised.

This book is a fun read, and Gow's story line moves rapidly holding your interest hostage with the twists and turns. Although the men in Scarlett's life imply that they would like to be intimate with her, Scarlett only kisses them. This is my first foray into the steampunk genre, and I was completely surprised at how much I enjoyed Gow’s book. I would recommend this book to teens, or anyone, who enjoy vampires, mysteries, or love stories because Supernatural Devices is all that.

Received Galley from NetGalley.com

[Dharia Scarab · Rating 2 out of 5]

Not very good I'm afraid. Far too many love interests to keep track of. The story felt very immature.

And Steampunk? Uh what Steampunk? The entire book revolved around the supernatural and various types of supernatural creatures. The only nod to Steampunk I found in this book was using the term "devices", when they really should have been referred to as "ancient magical artifacts".


Since I don't normally write reviews unless I have something specific to say, here's the break down of how I rate my books...

1 star... This book was bad, so bad I may have given up and skipped to the end. I will avoid this author like the plague in the future.

2 stars... This book was not very good, and I won't be reading any more from the author.

3 stars... This book was ok, but I won't go out of my way to read more, But if I find another book by the author for under a dollar I'd pick it up.

4 stars... I really enjoyed this book and will definitely be on the look out to pick up more from the series/author.

5 stars... I loved this book! It has earned a permanent home in my collection and I'll be picking up the rest of the series and other books from the author ASAP.

[Amy Halbern · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this book. It was Nancy Drew meets Sherlock Holmes meets The infernal Devices by, Cassandra Clare. I loved how adventurous it was. I really liked Scarlet's character. Scarlet is a strong independent and can hold her own . I also loved how there was a touch of romance but not mushy. I loved the bantering between her, Cruces and Tavian, very funny. There wasn't a huge cliff hanger, but enough to want more. Overall this book had everything in it; Adventure, Romance and Mystery. This book also had me guessing to the end with all the twists turns and gasping moments. Readers will fall head over hills for both Tavian and Cruces. I am still not sure who I like more. I highly recommend this book.

[Mersadies · Rating 4 out of 5]

I loved Scarlett she was so fiery and independent yet retained some lady like behavior. I thought the males in this book were awesome there were four rather important men in the story and all of them sexy and different. Of course Cruces had my heart from His and Scarlett's first meeting, but then Tavian gave him a run for his money. I like Scarlett's unique aibilty and the fact that this story also involves the famous Sherlock Holmes. I didn't like the length of the book it seemed more a novella then a full length novel but the story spun during those 143 pages was amazing enough for me not to care that much.

[pdarnold · Rating 3 out of 5]

Although this was listed under the genre of steampunk, there really isn't much gadgetry, enough to realize this isn't the usual Victorian tale. Being geared toward the YA audience there is the usual angst of several males vying for Scarlett's affections. This was a quick, fun, guilty pleasure read that gives another nod and a twist on Sherlock.

Archaeology, Egyptology is mentioned, mystery, mysticism, the supernatural, vampires, ghosts, Gypsies, Roma, family, friendship, admirers, rivals, mystical night market and adventure.

[Jessie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Steampunk + Sherlock Holmes + kissing. And no, we're not talking about kissing Sherlock Holmes here. Scarlett is a friend of Holmes with the ability to detect the supernatural. As such, she gets called in to help on a case. We see vampires, gypsies, changelings, and a mysterious Order that wants darkness, chaos, and Scarlett. First book in a series, book 2 is out now, so don't expect complete resolution, but it is a promising start.

[Kathy · Rating 4 out of 5]

A quick, fun read. Light on the steampunk, but with a generous helping of the supernatural (and a smidgen of Sherlock!), this story has an engaging plot that draws the reader in and keeps the pages turning. Handsome suitors abound and Scarlett has a chance to sample a kiss from all of them. First in a series, this book is a great start.

An electronic review copy of this book was provided to me by the publisher through NetGalley.

[Rachel · Rating 3 out of 5]

Supernatural Devices was, in one word, quick. Short read. Rapid (and inconclusive) chains of thought. Fast (and barely enough) character development. Quick (and underdeveloped and sloppy) fact gathering and continuity, both by the characters and the author (is Scarlett's father named Theodore or Thomas?). But, nonetheless, I have some hope for this series and its main character, and will continue with the next installment.

[Kathryn · Rating 4 out of 5]

Kailin Gow's Steampunk Scarlett books are not actually very steampunk--they're more paranormal fantasy in a Victorian setting--but I've nevertheless enjoyed the first two books and look forward to the next. They're a light, fun read, with an appealing protagonist, interesting supporting characters, and plenty of mystery, adventure, and romance.

[Keeline · Rating 3 out of 5]

scarlett fell in love a lot in this book, which is heart wrenching. If you have a hero in mind for her, she tears his heart out. think that I am getting into Steampunk Scarlett's love life... I What do you mean I have to wait til September to find out who she will love forever? Now, why am I having a difficult time editing my post....sorry for that.

[Cam · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really liked Supernatural Devices. I thought is was interesting.

The book could have easily been just as good without the Sherlock Holmes tie-in. It's story was original enough to stand on it's own.

The only real down part to the book was the love triangle. It all moved too fast. I didn't like the fact she seemed to attract every single guy in the book.

[Emery · Rating 3 out of 5]

Hmm...this book was ok. It was good in the beginning, but then it became to fast-past. I feel like Scarlet threw herself at Cruces and Tavian, without much thought. Then it doesn't explain what Scarlet is exactly. This book would be really good if it wasn't so fast-past. I did enjoy it though. I really like Scarlet as a character, and I really like that Holmes plays a part in this book.

[Becky · Rating 3 out of 5]

Scarlett Seely has been drawn into the dark side of 1800s London. Working for famed detective Sherlock Holmes she is now moving through the world of vampires, the fey and rakes. Gow built Scarlett’s world filled with mystery and adventure creating a great story for steampunk fans.

[Lisa · Rating 4 out of 5]

I chose this book since it was listed in the steampunk genre. It is more in the category of paranormal. I liked the heroine even though it has the theme of a romance where she is torn between several suitors.

[Chelle · Rating 2 out of 5]

Not much Steampunk and more Fae then I thought. This book was short and lacked well rounded characters. The idea had so much promise, but it fell flat. Good thing I only paid $0.99 for this. I will read the next one and hope it gets better since I bought it.