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The Perilous Journey of the Not So Innocuous Girl

(The Perilous Journey of the Not So Innocuous Girl #1)

Leigh Statham (Goodreads Author)

3.88 · Rating details · 205 ratings · 71 reviews

Lady Marguerite lives a life most 17th-century French girls can only dream of: money, designer dresses, suitors, and a secure future. Except she can’t quite commit to a life of dull luxury and she suspects she may be falling for her best friend Claude, a common smithy in the family's steam forge. When Claude leaves for New France in search of a better life, Marguerite deci ...more

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Paperback, 297 pages

Published March 17th 2015 by Month9Books

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Start your review of The Perilous Journey of the Not So Innocuous Girl (The Perilous Journey of the Not So Innocuous Girl #1)

Feb 24, 2015 Leigh Statham added it · (Review from the author)

Shelves: books-by-me

Fun Facts:
I wrote this book during NaNoWriMo.
It's based on the true story of one of my ancestors.
Strawberry trees are REAL!
Unfortunately, Outil is not real. (Le sigh)
...more

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Sep 20, 2014 mith rated it did not like it · review of another edition

Shelves: series, anticipated-and-disappointed, disappointed, not-so-american, 2015-publication, did-not-finish, historical

DNF.

There's only so much I can deal with when it comes to spoiled, bratty, offspring of noble birth.
Honestly, this book had so much potential despite that misleading blurb. I have no doubt that the steampunk in it would mesh well with the historical aspect of it. Only it didn't quite end up that way.
I don't want to delve into it. Not that I could anyway, not fully, at least (I stopped at 50%). It just makes me so angry, how annoying and judgemental and bratty the main character, Marguerite, i ...more

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Jun 21, 2014 Sarah rated it it was amazing

If I got to choose the next Disney princess, Marguerite would be it. She is smart, beautiful, and spunky. I love the way Statham develops the characters, especially Marguerite throughout the story. Marguerite is definitely not the same girl she was before she started her journey. Not only was the story enjoyable and suspenseful, but the steampunk imagery was AWESOME! This book was a lot of fun and a great read.

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Mar 12, 2015 Cora Tea Party Princess rated it it was amazing · review of another edition

5 Words: Steampunk, family, love, obligation, adventure.

It was so so good.

But goodness, this book could definitely do with having a better blurb. Because the awesomeness of this book is let down a little by it. If I hadn't just picked it up because of the title and cover, if I had read the blurb, I wouldn't have bothered. And I would have seriously missed out.

Marguerite, the main character, is very annoying at first. And I think she's supposed to be, because only if you can't stand her at first ...more

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Feb 08, 2015 Ashlee rated it really liked it

I was drawn to this book from the moment I saw the cover. The incredible cover art alone would have probably been enough of an enticement for me to read The Perilous Journey of The Not-So-Innocuous Girl, but the clever title is what really had me hooked.

After reading the blurb I was further intrigued, and armed with only this information and the fact that the book was published by speculative fiction specialists, Month9Books, I set in to what I assumed to be an historical fantasy about a perilou I was drawn to this book from the moment I saw the cover. The incredible cover art alone would have probably been enough of an enticement for me to read The Perilous Journey of The Not-So-Innocuous Girl, but the clever title is what really had me hooked.

After reading the blurb I was further intrigued, and armed with only this information and the fact that the book was published by speculative fiction specialists, Month9Books, I set in to what I assumed to be an historical fantasy about a perilous journey from France to the New World.

In essence, this is the case, but certainly not in the way I had pictured it. It was with both surprise and delight that I opened the story on page one to find myself immersed in a 17th-century steampunk world, full of wondrous gadgets, automatons and airships.

Out titular ‘not-so-innocuous girl’ is Marguerite Vadnay, the only daughter of one of the wealthiest landowners in 17th-century France. And like all young noble-women of her time, it is Marguerite’s sole duty to find a suitable husband once she comes of age. But Marguerite wants adventure and excitement – something that none of her prospective suitors can offer her.

The ‘perilous journey’ begins when Marguerite decides to enlist for the ‘Daughters of the King’ program – an actual 17th-century initiative that sent willing young women to New France (Quebec), where they would be able to choose their own husbands or take on a profession. Having decided she is in love with Claude, the smithy on her father’s estate, who has recently emigrated to New France himself, Marguerite decides to follow him – but of course, nothing goes as planned.

I have to admit I was slightly apprehensive before beginning this book. So often I come across outstanding covers that are merely a ruse, disguising the sub-par quality of the story within. Fortunately this was not one of those cases. The writing is solid and the world-building – that clever combination of historical detail and Ms. Statham’s imagination – is excellent.

There’s no doubt that Marguerite is, at times, a hard to like heroine; but we are given that information in the title so it’s not surprising. At times she invoked empathy, a times frustration, at times fear, at times hope – she certainly kept me on my toes more than any other main character I’ve read about recently!

What I really enjoyed was seeing the (metaphorical) journey that Marguerite undertook throughout the story, and how her experiences both humbled her and made her stronger by its conclusion.

For me, The Perilous Journey of The Not-So-Innocuous Girl had somewhat of a Doctor Who feel about it, and perhaps that’s why I enjoyed it so much. This novel won’t be for everyone – hardcore historical fiction fans might find the speculative world a little hard to reconcile – but if you love a good adventure story you’ll want to check this out.

A review copy was provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review

Also published on allaboutuf.wordpress.com
...more

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Jan 03, 2015 Kristen Cansler rated it it was amazing

Shelves: blog-review, r2r

I've only recently discovered Steampunk, and every story that I read in this genre makes me love it even more. The Perilous Journey of the Not-So-Innocuous Girl was such an adventure! This book is rich in so many things and lacking absolutely nothing.

The characters are what really made this story for me, though. Statham does such an excellent job at portraying everyone as their own individual person with real growth. Marguerite was simply perfect. I love learning about her and connecting to he ...more

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Dec 25, 2017 Renee Wimberley rated it it was amazing

This was the most amazing book I have ever read!

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Aug 30, 2014 J. Ford rated it really liked it

Shelves: favorites, ya-must-read, ya

Guys, I’ve got to tell you. I’ve had my eye on this book ever since I saw the cover last year.

I knew when I saw it I had to read it, so I signed up with Month9Books to get an ARC when they sent them out. I read it in less than two days. This book is everything I would want in a steampunk fantasy.

I rarely ever post the back cover blurbs in my reviews, so I’m going to get to the review.

This is a tried and true love story about two people from different worlds, different walks of life, who are in l Guys, I’ve got to tell you. I’ve had my eye on this book ever since I saw the cover last year.

I knew when I saw it I had to read it, so I signed up with Month9Books to get an ARC when they sent them out. I read it in less than two days. This book is everything I would want in a steampunk fantasy.

I rarely ever post the back cover blurbs in my reviews, so I’m going to get to the review.

This is a tried and true love story about two people from different worlds, different walks of life, who are in love with each other. Think Romeo and Juliette. Heathcliff and Catherine. Augustus and Hazel. Gatsby and Daisy. The theme has been done over and over before and this story is really no different as far as that goes. It’s sweet, and let’s face it – girls love romance, especially when there is a cute stable boy, or in this case, a smithy, and a wealthy girl who is full of spunk and determination.

But I don’t think this book would have had any draw for me if it weren’t for the steampunk aspect.

First, let me say I had my hesitations about this book. I’m not one for historical fiction and I really thought I would be bored by the 17th century French culture, but Statham makes it irresistible with her unique steampunk twist and all the gizmos and gadgets. I tell you, there were several times I wanted to jump in the book to see these things up close and personal. It was as if they were really real. I wanted see them, hold them, especially Marguerite’s cricket toy. I could go on for pages over the detail, the imagery. It was completely mind-blowing. I was drawn in right away by Statham’s imagination and her ability to make the reader feel like they were right in the thick of it. I was enthralled. Captivated, and all I kept hoping for was for this book to be made into a movie so I could see how the CGI artists would bring this world to life.

As for the characters, I found Marguerite very difficult to like in the beginning. She’s wild, reckless. Very defiant, but I couldn’t stop reading her adventure. She certainly plays with all of your emotions, but by the end of the story, I loved her. She developed and grew into this amazing individual, and discovering how her relationship with Claude grew and developed was a beautiful journey. Yes, it was clichéd on so many levels, but it was one thing I loved about the story. Statham not only did a wonderful job on Marguerite and Claude, but her secondary characters were well developed as well, with their own arcs, their own growth to achieve. It was quite refreshing.

I give this book a solid 4 stars for its steampunk originality and superb world-building. It added just the right spark to turn this otherwise mediocre, tried-and-true love story into something positively wonderful and delightfully different. I will definitely keep my eyes open for more books from Leigh Statham and I hope she keep writing about her wonderful gadgets, toys and gizmos. She really is, my opinion, the Steampunk Queen of YA fiction.

A review copy was provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review
...more

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Mar 21, 2015 Melanie Tucker rated it it was amazing · review of another edition

Perilously Perfect!

I would recommend this book to all! It is far from my typical choice and I couldn't be more excited to share the love I have for The Perilous Journey of The Not-So-Innocuous Girl! I love Marguerite, LOVE her! Wow, I don't want to chance any spoilers, so I will simply say that I thoroughly enjoyed being transported to this world with these characters and joined their lives and great adventures, with all of its ups and downs, as I tagged along on this perilously perfect journey! ...more

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Mar 31, 2015 Deborah rated it it was amazing

Shelves: for-kath

I was pleasantly surprised with how much I loved this book! I had no idea that this book would have romance as well as suspense. There were moments in this book that I felt like my eyes couldn't read fast enough. I just had to know what was going to happen!!!

I will say that the beginning is a little slow and you're going to wonder what the hay I was talking about, but just trust me. It will pick up and then you won't stop turning pages!

My BFF recommended this to me and I'm so glad she did! I h ...more

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Dec 20, 2013 Niagra Tang rated it really liked it

I don't know what time period my love for books and writing in general died, but there was a moment it did. And it was scary! Because reading was the first thing I excelled at--reading and writing, and words in general were the first things I was passionate about. Stories. Stories (stories held in BOOKS, specifically),had always held a higher esteem regarding the critics within me. Books weren't lack-luster, gimmicky, or cheap as reality shows or corny sitcom reruns were on television. They were I don't know what time period my love for books and writing in general died, but there was a moment it did. And it was scary! Because reading was the first thing I excelled at--reading and writing, and words in general were the first things I was passionate about. Stories. Stories (stories held in BOOKS, specifically),had always held a higher esteem regarding the critics within me. Books weren't lack-luster, gimmicky, or cheap as reality shows or corny sitcom reruns were on television. They were works of art. Sometimes they were even instant classics. And they taught you something.
I remember this one time a teacher of mine wondered why anyone ever pick up a Harry Potter book. "What do they even teach you? Why do you kids read them?!" I just stared at her, my mouth going a little slack. Was she SIRIUS? However, as the years have passed, and more authors grapple to climb their way to the Best Seller's List, to get that Pulitzer, that Pintz, that new major motions picture, I have found that the quality of writing in books have become....just...*disappointing* And cheap. And lack-luster. And gimmicky. But after all the years, and all the times I forced myself to begin a tale, only to find out later it followed the same formula, the same script, I have finally found something original, factually CORRECT, and enjoyable. I LOVED this book. It wasn't trying to be pretentiously philosophical like a John Green novel (I really just don't like his novels. Not HIM. Just his novels). It wasn't gimmicky. It wasn't forced. It was a STORY. With CHARACTERS. And the writing is so excellent, it could have very well been a best-seller, but if I'm mistaken, I don't think Miss Statham was aiming for that (not saying the quality of the books is not 'Best-selling material', just saying that you know when authors I trying TOO hard to fill in those slots). It was simple, and yet it wasn't. I adored Outil. Ou-freakin-til. OUTIL! OUTIIIIL! *okay done now*
I never knew my favorite character in a book would end up being the ROBOT, but she just...ugh. And as awesome and charming as Jacques was (I had SUCH a crush on him the whole time. Like the from the very first introduction of him. I was rooting for him, really), Outil was a reminder of how valuable Claude was too. And Marguerite. Marguerite (did you ever get the hang of writing her name correctly while typing this? THANK AUTOCORRECT) I liked her, because at times I DIDN'T. How many times in our lives have we been likable to the general public. I'm sure if I watched a recording of my life, I would be banging the tele screen crying, "Girl. Get. Your. Self. Together!" A slap for each syllable. And at times...I felt like that with Lady Vadnay. But she learns something. And I learned something. And I miss books where it was like that. Where the characters go on a journey, their weaker, or worst, or flawed selves, and come out their stronger, their better, their renewed selves. So thanks you, Miss Statham, for rekindling something that had died long ago. My obsession for books, and the stories within them. Going to pick up another one this week--Can't let the fire die!
P.s: the ending. like the very, very very ending, on a certain page *spoiler*, back there with the acknowledgements, is what REALLY tied it up nicely for me. It wrapped the story up nicer then the epilogue, and I LOVED that. Okay, I'm done. ...more

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Jun 14, 2014 Jillyn rated it it was amazing · review of another edition

I'd give more than five stars if I could.

Wow. This is seriously one of the best books that I've read so far this year. Here's the nutshell version: Airships. Pirates. Romance. Automatons. Do I have your attention yet? Good.

First, I'd like to fangirl about the cover because I'm not going to lie to you, that's initially why I opted to read this book. Look at how absolutely stunning it is! This is one of the few examples of a book cover that I would have a framed print of on my wall. It's positivel I'd give more than five stars if I could.

Wow. This is seriously one of the best books that I've read so far this year. Here's the nutshell version: Airships. Pirates. Romance. Automatons. Do I have your attention yet? Good.

First, I'd like to fangirl about the cover because I'm not going to lie to you, that's initially why I opted to read this book. Look at how absolutely stunning it is! This is one of the few examples of a book cover that I would have a framed print of on my wall. It's positively gorgeous.

And then there's the actual story itself. There's a lot of genres smooshed into this book; romance, adventure, steampunk, and alternative history to name a few. They blend together like perfectly calibrated cogs. I was sucked in from the first page and it didn't take long at all for me to devour the rest of it.

What I enjoyed most about this book is the world building. The first part of the book is set in France, at a time when automatons and airships and clockwork trinkets and technologies flourish. That said, there are still human servants and regular ocean ships- I liked that the two lived side by side in relative harmony. Everything is well detailed and well written. Whether Marguerite is in a life raft, garden, or her bedroom, it's easy to picture it and lose yourself in the scenery.

I also loved the characters. Marguerite is strong and determined. She's nobility but holds her own, and steps up to be a leader when people need her the most (even if they don't know it yet). She's a rebel but not careless, smart but not overtly standoffish. I loved watching her grow into a bad ass over the course of the book. The side characters held my attention just as much, and were easily distinguishable from one another. From Vivienne, the chatty friend, to the insufferable Captain Jacques, or the monstrous governess, I felt for all of the characters in one way or another. (Of course, some of those feelings were hate. I'm looking at you, Governess).

There were a few times where this book took me by surprise. It's very fast paced, and full of twisting, turning action and adventure. I mean this book has a runaway noblewoman, pirate attacks, forbidden love, airships, and an awesome bot sidekick. What else could you possibly want? For me, this book had it all. I really hope to read more from Statham in the future.

I'd recommend this to anyone who is a fan of young adult steampunk, girls who aren't afraid to wield guns and wear pants in an age of dresses, adventure, and a dash of romance. Thanks so much to Month9Books for my copy in exchange for my honest review.

This review can also be found on my blog, Bitches n Prose. ...more

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Feb 11, 2016 Michelle (Bookaholic Banter) rated it liked it

This was an imaginative story. It kept me interested enough to keep reading. However there wasn't anything so intriguing that I couldn't put it down or read in one sitting. When I first started reading the story I felt a little bored. The story quickly took offf when Lady Marguerite boards the aership. This was where most of the action and adventure took place during the story.

At times in the story Lady Marguerite is a loving, caring, strong, and independent woman who doesn't like to be told wha This was an imaginative story. It kept me interested enough to keep reading. However there wasn't anything so intriguing that I couldn't put it down or read in one sitting. When I first started reading the story I felt a little bored. The story quickly took offf when Lady Marguerite boards the aership. This was where most of the action and adventure took place during the story.

At times in the story Lady Marguerite is a loving, caring, strong, and independent woman who doesn't like to be told what to do and puts others first. However sometimes during the story she could turn a little whiny and acted a little entitled because of her upbringing. It was easy to connect with the first side of Lady Marguerite. She set an example for other women showing them that they did not have to settle for what society says you should be or do. She showed other women how if you really want something all you have to do is go out there and work for it and it can be yours.

There wasn't too much worldbuilding in the book. I would have liked a little bit more of that. It was hard to escape into the story at times because I felt like I couldn't really see what the world looked like. I would have liked to see a little more vivid detail. Also on the aership, when the pirates came I would have liked to see a scene with them fighting off the pirates. It was a little hard to believe the ship was under attack when that wasn't shown too much.

The element of romance wasn't overpowering in the story. It was there but it didn't take over the whole story which I loved. Often times books focus on the element so much that it tends to take over the whole story. It was subtly there. It didn't take over the story and we knew it was there without it having to be talked about on every page. Kudos on the romance!

There was a bit of something missing for me in this story. It might have been the transitioning from scenes. Sometimes I felt like it jumped into another scene a little abruptly rather than smoothly. Overall, I did enjoy reading this story. It is a fictional story that empowers women. It shows how we can be unstoppable and how when we really want something we can be strong and go for it! It was an interesting and fun, quick read.
...more

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Apr 20, 2015 Isabell rated it really liked it

I hadn't really expected it to turn out how it did, but I'm not disappointed that it did either. It was a really good book and also kind of sad. I really thought that it would be more about her arrival in Nee France than it was, and that it wouldn't all be on the ride there. The characters where very good in my eyes, but I really didn't like that Marguerite was kind of spoiled and bratty, but at the same time a really amazing character.

I totally recommend people to read this book. ...more

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Mar 20, 2015 Tressa (Wishful Endings) added it

Shelves: 2015

Really enjoyed this one!

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Jun 16, 2014 Stephanie Ward rated it liked it

Shelves: ebook, for-review, netgalley, blog-tour

'The Perilous Journey of the Not-So-Innocuous Girl' is a young adult novel that effortlessly blends several genres together to tell the story of Marguerite - an upper class French debutante who has the kind of life that other girls can only dream of. Marguerite is the main character in the book. For a large portion of the book, she is spoiled, haughty, and doesn't do what she's told. Marguerite does have redeeming qualities too - she's intelligent, loves her father and her friends, and is defini 'The Perilous Journey of the Not-So-Innocuous Girl' is a young adult novel that effortlessly blends several genres together to tell the story of Marguerite - an upper class French debutante who has the kind of life that other girls can only dream of. Marguerite is the main character in the book. For a large portion of the book, she is spoiled, haughty, and doesn't do what she's told. Marguerite does have redeeming qualities too - she's intelligent, loves her father and her friends, and is definitely a free spirit with a bit of a wild streak. Her father is throwing her an official "coming out" ball so she can be formally introduced into society and begin looking at rich young men as possible husbands. Only Marguerite doesn't want it - the ball, the snotty families with their sons - who all have some sort of fault, and being paraded around like a prize animal by her father. That night, her best friend since childhood - Claude - tells her that his military orders have changed and he has to leave in the morning. Marguerite is heartbroken at the thought of losing Claude and (not surprisingly) she realizes that she's in love with him. He (of course) loves her too, but isn't good enough for her and nobody would allow them to be together. Marguerite has a huge fight with her father, which ends with him sending her away to a school for women like her. She wants nothing to do with this lifestyle and only wants to be with Claude. So (naturally), she hops on a ship and follows him to New France, so they can finally be together. The journey proves to be much harder than she expected, both physically and emotionally, but if she can make it to New France and Claude - she can finally be free.

As you can probably tell from my summary of the book, I found the plot to be rather mediocre and not very original. It's basically the story of two people in love, who are from completely different ways of life (the whole star-crossed lover thing), and the journey and obstacles they must overcome to be together. This type of story has been told a million times in a million different ways. This is no different - it's the same plot only it's been altered to the author's taste. I'm not saying that this is a bad thing - everyone loves reading about the star-crossed lovers, including me. I'm just pointing out that I thought the plot was pretty obvious and is one that has been written so many times that it gets lost among the others just like it. The writing was well done and had a natural flow. For some reason - and this is all on me and has nothing to do with the author or the writing itself - I just couldn't lose myself in the book. Usually I'm able to slip inside the world the author has created and completely immerse myself in it. That just didn't happen with this one. I can't pinpoint any specific reasons or issues I had - the writing just didn't grab me at the beginning.

Marguerite was an interesting main character for the book. She's defiant, a bit wild and reckless, but also caring, smart, and a loving daughter and friend. I was able to identify and empathize with her character throughout the book. She takes a lot of risks and faces tons of danger when she decides to follow Claude to New France. She basically leaves her entire life - which is a nice posh one - in order to follow her heart and to be with the guy she loves. I have to admit that I'm a romantic at heart and I always love these types of stories; where one person risks everything to be with the one they love. I'm a sucker for it every time - and this was no different. I loved watching Marguerite and Claude's relationship grow - from being childhood friends and then falling in love with one another. It might have been a bit cliched, but I liked it anyway.

The last thing I want to talk about concerning this book is the world the author created. This is one component of the story that blew me away completely. The story takes place in an alternate history - one filled with awesome steampunk gadgets and inventions. I don't often have the chance to read steampunk fiction, so I ate this up. The author did a magnificent job building this world and incorporating all the different aspects of both history and steampunk. I loved reading anything and everything about Marguerite's world - it all captivated me. There's such detailed descriptions of things - especially the steampunk inventions like the bots, Marguerite's cricket toy, and the aerships - to name a few. I felt like I could see these contraptions right in front of me as if I were there. Steampunk in general has always fascinated me and this book was full of it. Needless to say, I loved learning about everything that had to do with it - from the small things to the bigger and more impressive ones. Learning how they worked, what they looked like, and any other details about the devices had me truly enthralled. Honestly, it's because of this amazing world and the intense attention to detail that kept me reading this book. None of the other aspects seemed to grab my attention like the steampunk world blazing in front of me in all of it's shining glory. I feel like I'm not describing it right or using the right words to capture it, but I'm doing the best I can. It left me speechless and filled with wonder. Overall, this was a good book with a plot that was mediocre and a bit tired - but the writing and world building brought it back and gave it the spark I needed to stay interested. Recommended for fans of fantasy, science fiction, historical fiction, and those who enjoy steampunk.

Disclosure: I received a copy of the book in exchange for an honest review. ...more

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Jan 25, 2016 Amy rated it it was amazing

Well that was a wildly fun and enjoyable read.

What an imagination, Statham has! While you begin this story thinking you might know where it's going, you're a fool. You don't. I mean, sure, there's foreshadowing a good reader will pick up on, but out of thin air (sometimes literally), you'll get surprises. That's what makes a good story, and Statham is definitely a great wielder of one here.

Now, before we get too ahead of ourselves, let me offer full disclosure: this author is a friend of mine. Well that was a wildly fun and enjoyable read.

What an imagination, Statham has! While you begin this story thinking you might know where it's going, you're a fool. You don't. I mean, sure, there's foreshadowing a good reader will pick up on, but out of thin air (sometimes literally), you'll get surprises. That's what makes a good story, and Statham is definitely a great wielder of one here.

Now, before we get too ahead of ourselves, let me offer full disclosure: this author is a friend of mine. But hold up! Before you dismiss my enthusiasm for the book as simply allegiance by association, there's something you need to know about me. I am heartless. Well, at least just heartless enough to tell someone stuff I don't like in their art, even if I do love the person. Especially because I love the person. I'll show you: there were a smattering of times while reading this book I thought something could have been more tightly edited. Also, for me, the story started out just a touch slow. See? I can be honest. Imagine my relief that I can stop there at being negative, because the rest of what I have to say is this:

This is just a great story.

The book has a wonderful rhythm to it, literally, in thrumming steampunk machinery, and figuratively, with an ebb and flow of genuine adventure against adept romance. It's not long before you're in page-turner territory, and you arrive there with a dynamic main character you want to cheer for, but who also exhibits just the right amount of flawed personality as to make her human, even at times, frustrating. Marguerite is a heroine, to be sure; she's a woman all her own. If you've ever enjoyed spending time with Elizabeth Bennett, Emma Woodhouse, Rose Dewitt Bukater, or Scarlett O'Hara, you're going to love Marguerite. Throw in the fact that Statham puts all of this in a captivating setting where neither a robot nor a parasol are out of place, and you fly away with a book you'll have a hard time putting down. Seriously, I lost sleep and dishes went undone.

The above is all high praise from me because, honestly, YA is not my favorite category. Don't get me wrong, YA can produce some fantastic stuff, it's just not really my usual go-to section of the library. And yet, some of my favorite stories have come out of the category; it is clearly fertile ground for wonderful books. This is one of them. ...more

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Aug 12, 2013 Erin Isgett rated it it was amazing

I just re-read this for our September book club and I seriously loved it even more the second time! Statham does such a fantastic job of creating such a vivid world with her words, and the story keeps me hooked from beginning to end. Marguerite's growth as a person throughout the story is such a fun progression to follow, and I could totally see this book being made into a movie--what a fun heroine to see on the big screen! This is a YA book I can recommend to anyone without hesitation--what a j ...more

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May 11, 2015 Tori Olson rated it it was amazing

Shelves: books-1-12

This novel talks about a girl traveling from her life in France to Canada following a friends. She comes from a wealthy family and her father wants to marry her off, but she has no interest in any of the boys but rather a boy who works for her father. She then is convinced to run away to Canada a marry a solider. When she gets their her expectations are changed from what she thought her life would be like.
This novel has a strong female lead. Though she is chasing after a boy she realizes as she ...more

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Aug 12, 2013 Carole rated it it was amazing

This book has it all: a spunky lovable heroine that grows throughout the story, plenty of action and adventure, a love triangle (so not just one but two hunky heroes!), a glance into the past, and an extremely satisfying ending that isn't obvious from the first page. Marguerite's story, based on a real character in real circumstances, was an absolute delight to delve into. The author is adept at pulling you in and keeping you there. Just know if you pick this one up, you won't be getting anythin ...more

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Jun 15, 2014 Lígia Bellini rated it it was ok

It's a nice reading and the author was very creative to bring the true story of her ancestor, but with a steampunk touch! It's full of action and easy to read. I couldn't like at first, of the main female character, Marguerite. But the typical rich and spoiled girl, learns with difficult tasks on her journey, to become a nice and better person. Besides that, there's also a sweet romance. It was a light reading, but nothing suuuuper great for my taste. ...more

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Feb 24, 2015 Holly rated it really liked it

TPJOTNSIG was thoroughly enjoyable and I was sad when I finished it today. Well done, Leigh Statham, writing a novel I can recommend without hesitation to younger teens. And, of course, adults like me who enjoy a good young adult novel featuring gadgets and romance.

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Feb 28, 2015 Patricia rated it really liked it

Shelves: young-adult, steampunk

4.5 stars Fun, fun, fun! I really enjoyed Maguerite's story and her growth throughout this book. When the peril kicked in, she rose to the challenge. A great YA steampunk! ...more

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Mar 28, 2015 Michelle Leonard rated it really liked it · review of another edition

Gutsy heroine? Check! Cool steampunk alternative history? Check! Love story? Check! Nice work, Leigh Statham! Sequel, please!

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Apr 21, 2015 Jordan Taylor rated it it was amazing

awsome book. needs a sequal...maybe??

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Jan 18, 2021 Blake rated it it was amazing

I loved this book. I’m a huge fan of Leigh Statham’s writing. I read this book after I read Daughter 4254. I enjoyed this book even more than her other book. I really love her writing style. I would recommend everyone read this book.

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Dec 26, 2016 Brooke Banks rated it liked it

Shelves: written-reviews, blog-tours, genre-romance, age-new-adult, series, content-trigger-warning, rating-4-stars, rating-3-5-stars, genre-gaslamp, indies

The Good
+easy fun read
+hooked me from the get-go
+liked all the characters
+perspectives were spot-on
+loved the character growth
+didn't see the surprises coming

The Bad & The Other
-Halfway through Marguerite almost lost me with her antics
- Iroquois men seen as exotic man candy, which is problematic and not called out like the classism is.

Right away, I was pulled into the story. It was easy on the eyes and flowed beautifully. There’s plenty of refresher information so I didn’t feel like I mis ...more

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Sep 30, 2015 Clark rated it it was amazing

Shelves: favorites

I enjoyed the book quite a bit. Marguerite was relatable to me in some ways because she is a fearless and sophisticated girl. However, there are some aspects to her nature which I totally didn't agree with. I believe the book started going downhill towards the end, after Vivienne died. Marguerite started to lose interest in keeping herself beautiful and feminine and wanted to wear trousers. Why any girl who could wear beautiful gowns would choose to wear trousers is beyond me, unless those trous I enjoyed the book quite a bit. Marguerite was relatable to me in some ways because she is a fearless and sophisticated girl. However, there are some aspects to her nature which I totally didn't agree with. I believe the book started going downhill towards the end, after Vivienne died. Marguerite started to lose interest in keeping herself beautiful and feminine and wanted to wear trousers. Why any girl who could wear beautiful gowns would choose to wear trousers is beyond me, unless those trousers are really pretty and hugged your hips and legs to show off your curves.

I also found it really deplorable that she was able to transfer her affection for Claude to Jacques that easily. I mean, it was way too SUDDEN. Ever heard of giving it appropriate time? Talk about fickle minded! I think she suddenly decided that she loved Jacques just to save face. Or maybe not, after she ran and threw herself all over him when they were at the aeronautics school. A lady shouldn't do that, the men should do all the pursuing. A lady could do SUBTLE things, but nothing as shameful as declaring her love first. Have some pride!

As for Claude, he has some nerve rejecting Marguerite, a highborn girl who left her entire life and risking her neck for him, in favor of a girl whom he barely knew and who was probably a peasant. I would have given him a stinging slap and cursed him and his fiancee. True, he is a peasant himself and secretly I was glad that they didn't end up together because he is poor and although he is brilliant, there is no assurance that he will become rich. But it's the principle, the thought that anyone would reject someone as beautiful and charming as Marguerite. It would have been better if he died, maybe in a battle or something. At least Marguerite could play the desolate heroine and it would make for a very romantic story.

I did prefer Jacques over Claude however, but I had hoped that he would do more to win Marguerite's heart. Like maybe kidnap her, do something a little heavy handed to sway her feelings towards him. I felt that it was all too convenient, that Marguerite realized immediately after being put down (albeit gently) by Claude that it was Jacques she loved after all. Nevertheless, it was the right choice. Or it could have been Delacourte, maybe Marguerite could have reformed him and made him more of the man she wants in life.

About Pomphart, if I was in Marguerite's shoes, that wretched woman wouldn't have done half of what she did. I would have made her life a living hell. After all, she was the heiress and Pomphart was merely the governess. I really detest that it went so far that Pomphart locked her in a cellar IN HER OWN HOUSE. After Outil helped me escape, I would have dashed towards that hateful bitch and kicked her in the face. I would then proceed to beat her up until she begs for mercy.

I also didn't like that Marguerite basically just allowed the peasant girls to treat her like that. No matter what they do, she was still an aristocrat and they were her inferiors. They should have known their place, and give her the respect that she is due because of her high birth.

Overall, I still enjoyed reading about Marguerite and her exploits. I hope that I would be able read more stories like this but maybe next time the girl would end up with a prince or someone very, very rich and handsome. ...more

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Aug 13, 2013 Aleesha rated it really liked it

You know, it may seem to the casual observer that I give a lot of books 4-5 stars. However, it should be noted that I only really take the time to login in review books I really really enjoyed.
The Perilous Journey, is really one of those books. I will admit that it took me a bit to get "into" the book. I'm not a huge fan of steampunk, and usually find them trite and obnoxious. The cover on this one, and the title- sucked me in and convinced me to read. And I am so glad I did. It is a gorgeous wo You know, it may seem to the casual observer that I give a lot of books 4-5 stars. However, it should be noted that I only really take the time to login in review books I really really enjoyed.
The Perilous Journey, is really one of those books. I will admit that it took me a bit to get "into" the book. I'm not a huge fan of steampunk, and usually find them trite and obnoxious. The cover on this one, and the title- sucked me in and convinced me to read. And I am so glad I did. It is a gorgeous world with a heroine who actually progresses and grows throughout the novel. You want to root for her at the beginning, but you also want her to grow up a bit...and she does! It's clear she's been sheltered and spoiled her entire life, but you don't get this poor pathetic creature at all. She's got spunk, and she's clever. You can see that she doesn't want to be the damsel in distress, and she wants to write her own story. Some reviewers have been disappointed that it was a "star crossed Lovers" story= but I really feel they missed the point entirely. There is love in the story, but it is really secondary to Marguerite's learning to grasp her own destiny, and not allow convention to dictate her path. Its not a story about her and Claude, or even her and the Captain- Its a story of a strong character who is capable and yet vulnerable. Who can jump in and save the day, and yet cry and allow herself to be comforted. I find that frequently "strong female" heroines are harsh, and unrealistic. I can't identify with them, because its almost as if they have to fight to throw off femininity. Not so with Lady Marguerite. Statham embraces both sides of being a strong woman, and being able to love and be kind and be vulnerable at the same time. In other words, she creates a real believable character whom I want my daughters to want to be like. One of the things I love the most is when Marguerite's world falls apart, she doesn't fall apart too. She wants to, but she picks herself up and moves forward- decisively. No "Bella Swan" months of despairing over true love lost here. And I love that more than anything else. Let's start teaching our Young women that they CAN keep on going when things get tough, and that they can be strong and amazing at the same time.
And seriously, you can't go wrong with airships, pirates, mechanical objects, and robots. Especially with clever dialogue and a creative inventive world.
Just keep reading! You won't be disappointed.
Things I loved- non conventional love story, great heroine, interesting world. lighthearted! NO SEX, no garbage, positive relationships between boy girl. only maybe one "bible" swear word
Things I didn't love- a bit slow in the beginning, heroine is a bit childish to start, Madame Pomphart isn't a believeable character- I hate her anyway though :) ...more

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Mar 23, 2015 Naturalbri (Bri Wignall) rated it it was amazing

Shelves: finished, loved-it, ya, romance, fantasy, steampunk

My Thoughts:

This book was absolutely brilliant. As we know by now, I am a huge fan of steampunk. I love all of it, and this book has everything.

From the first page, upon meeting Marguerite, I was in love, especially in love with her little steampunk cricket! She showed a curiosity, eagerness to accept new things and the determination to create a life she loved. Though Marguerite is well off, she goes against the grain of her station, by being interested in the work of her friend Claude. She love My Thoughts:

This book was absolutely brilliant. As we know by now, I am a huge fan of steampunk. I love all of it, and this book has everything.

From the first page, upon meeting Marguerite, I was in love, especially in love with her little steampunk cricket! She showed a curiosity, eagerness to accept new things and the determination to create a life she loved. Though Marguerite is well off, she goes against the grain of her station, by being interested in the work of her friend Claude. She loves his inventions, and carries the little mechanical cricket he made her, everywhere. She also loves the thought of introducing mechanical bots into the household.

Though her ball includes lots of mechanics, which is unheard of in New France, and many lovely treats and beautiful items, all of the latest fashion, it is not the world Marguerite wants. She wants a few things, to explore and find a life she suits and to stay with Claude.

When Claude announces that he is going to join the Royal Corp of Engineers, to better his career, Marguerite is devastated and instantly begins to think of ways to keep them together. Soon, she realises she can't keep Claude there, but she can begin her own adventure, and follow him.

From there, our steampunk world explodes with adventures, mishaps, love and more. With a blend of pirates, class wars, mechanical wonders and Marguerite battling to stay on top of all the problems, we find ourselves thrust into a fast-paced story.

I love that the story starts out a tad slow, giving us a few chapters of details. It really builds the world, gives us background and we get to know our main characters and a major secondary character. Then the pace is quickened, allowing us to feel the excitement, fear, anger, indecision and pride that flow through the different points in the story.

The emotion is written very well and really made me connect with Marguerite. I truly felt she was strong female, one who was keen to learn and dive right in to save those she cares about, even if the danger could bring horrible consequences.

The steampunk nature of the book was carried well throughout. Unlike some stories, this book really kept the steampunk nature involved throughout the entire read. Everywhere we turned, we were 'seeing' mechanical devices that really built the wonder of this story.

Overall, I think this is one of the best books I have read this year. It written very well, flows nicely, has an excellent, action-packed pace and the characters are brilliant. I highly recommend checking out this book if you are YA, steampunk or fantasy lover or if you just want to try the world of steampunk. This one will make you love the steampunk world as much as I do! ...more

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About Leigh Statham

Leigh Statham

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Leigh Statham was raised in the wilds of rural Idaho, but found her heart on the East Coast. She worked as a waitress, maid, artist, math teacher, nurse, web designer, art director, thirty-foot inflatable pig and mule wrangler before she settled down in the semi-quiet role of teacher, mother, and writer. She resides in North Carolina with her four children, three dogs, and lots of cookie recipes. ...more