Clockwork Menagerie (Shadows of Asphodel, #2.5) by Karen Kincy

Aug 05, 2016 Kazza rated it really liked it

Shelves: historical

I'm not always up with this genre in terms of what's expected. I don't read a lot of steampunk, I think this may have been called dieselpunk, or technomancy. However, the setting was really well drawn, I felt a sense of time and a sense of machinery and inventions and wonder and worry at what these things could do. How they could be brought to life - and how dark that aspect was. The action was good, as was the suspense that was built.

I felt the romance between Konstantin and Himmel was lacking ...more

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Aug 24, 2015 Nay Denise rated it really liked it

Shelves: arcs, review-books, blog-tours

I received an ARC copy to review.

Beautifully written. I loved both Shadows of Asphodel and Storms of Lazarus, so I knew I would enjoy this novella. Karen Kincy has a a way with words and how she creates her characters into these amazing people. The world of technomancy is just all too interesting.

Konstantin was an archmage battling to save his home and with who he was. I loved him because he found a way to balance both out. He was nerdy, quirky and downright smart. He knew things were going wron ...more

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Sep 05, 2015 Alissa rated it did not like it · review of another edition

Shelves: read-ebooks

I've read and liked the two books of the series so I read this novella, too; all the better that it focused on Konstantin, an interesting character who could have more adventures on his own.
I knew there was going to be romance and it was fine, the series had a nice balance, but the story here is just a backdrop for the romance, and a dull one at that.

Both the protagonists behave either stiffly or as giddy teenagers and there is neither tension nor intensity. The story has too many gaps and contr ...more

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Sep 06, 2015 Sophia rated it really liked it · review of another edition

Shelves: steampunk-steampunk-pnr, review-requests

I love it when an author takes a break from the main characters to give a compelling minor character his story. Konstantin has been a pivotal secondary character through both the first two books in the series and he started up a bit of romance in the second book so it was fun to get his quirky, distracted, and sometimes impulsive thoughts and actions and see him bumble his way toward his chance at love.

In the second novel, Konstantin makes a chilling discovery about one of the clockwork machines I love it when an author takes a break from the main characters to give a compelling minor character his story. Konstantin has been a pivotal secondary character through both the first two books in the series and he started up a bit of romance in the second book so it was fun to get his quirky, distracted, and sometimes impulsive thoughts and actions and see him bumble his way toward his chance at love.

In the second novel, Konstantin makes a chilling discovery about one of the clockwork machines sent to attack the Prussians. He is busy learning the secrets behind the clockwork dragon and its soul-powered heart when he is called away to act as a scientific assistant to the Archmanges' Ambassador to Russia. He is both pleased and nervous about the fact that Captain Himmel is to pilot their airship and accompany them on their tours.

Konstantin is drawn to Himmel, but is afraid to jeopardize his career, his freedom, and possibly his life if they are caught being together. Plus there is the fact that he has no idea how to be with Himmel. He is better with inventions and technomancy than people. Himmel is patient and supportive even when, after meeting the cunning inventor of the soul-powered clockwork weaponry and clashing forces, Konstantin goes against his orders to bring down evil.

This is a novella-length story and as such it moves along quickly. But happily, it doesn't stint on all that I have come to enjoy about the series. The author did a great job of altering the narration to suit Konstantin's personality. He is brilliant and curious about all things tech and inventions, but he is relatively naive as to making his way in social situations and relationships. He actually hurts Himmel when he panics and withdraws, but then when faced with death realizes what is truly important.

And shorter though this is, it doesn't short change the reader on action and intrigue. Konstantin is following the trail of an evil technomancer (inventor magic wielder) who enslaves souls to power his clockwork inventions. It's illegal and immoral, but the ambassador doesn't want to cause a stink over it. The rival technomancer is devious and has the home ground advantage and more ruthlessness. It was exciting and fun to see Konstantin who has been the geeky behind the lines support guy, get in on the action.

So a fun in between adventure for a minor character in the series. This one could be read as a standalone in a pinch, but works best in order. Lovers of blending steampunk (or in this case, dieselpunk) and paranormal romance might want to pick this series up.

My thanks to Curiosity Quills for providing this book in exchange for an honest review. ...more

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Sep 09, 2015 Meigan rated it it was amazing

Shelves: historical, novellas-short-stories-or-serials, magic-or-witchcraft-or-summoning, fantasy, kissing-books, received-for-review, witch-mage-wizard-sorceror-warlock, steampunk-and-other-punks, paranormal-romance

When I initially started this series with the first book, Shadows of Asphodel, I was very unsure of Konstantin -- a scientist with the Archmages, specializing in technomancy. He initially wasn't very personable, he was quite gruff at times, certainly not the kind of man to let loose and have some fun. With the second book, Kincy changed all of that, giving dear old Konstantin such personality and loading him up with such endearing characteristics. Not only is he so incredibly personable now as t When I initially started this series with the first book, Shadows of Asphodel, I was very unsure of Konstantin -- a scientist with the Archmages, specializing in technomancy. He initially wasn't very personable, he was quite gruff at times, certainly not the kind of man to let loose and have some fun. With the second book, Kincy changed all of that, giving dear old Konstantin such personality and loading him up with such endearing characteristics. Not only is he so incredibly personable now as the series moves along, he's also a very conflicted man.

In a time when homosexuality and anything remotely regarded as sodomy is deemed illegal and severely punished, such constraints weigh rather heavily on poor Konstantin. In love with a man, one who shares his feelings, no less, Konstantin is deeply troubled. Acting on his heart's wishes could not only get him arrested, it could also cost him his job. The one he loves so dearly. Acting on his brain's wishes ensures he misses out on what could truly blossom into something beautiful. When Konstantin is tasked with a mission taking him to Russia, he's both elated and dismayed. Elated, because airship Captain Himmel will be traveling alongside him. Dismayed, because Himmel is the object of his desire.

Clockwork Menagerie was such a welcome addition to Kincy's Shadows of Asphodel series. As I've stated before in my review for the second book of this series, I absolutely adore how Kincy embraces sexuality and diversity, and this novella is a perfect example. Despite this being so short, it was jam packed with both action and emotion, and let's not forget the steam. As with the other books in this series, the sex isn't overly graphic, although I was hoping it would be for this installment :)

I absolutely recommend this novella, but only after the first two books have been read. Not that that's a hardship, mind you, because this series truly is wonderful. Full of diesel powered technology, magic, and airships, Kincy has created such an interesting, alternate world with this series, putting her own touches and spins on real events and people. It's a series that's quickly growing to my list of favorites and one that I look forward to with each new installment.

**eARC received from the publisher, Curiosity Quills Press, in exchange for my honest opinion. ...more

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Sep 26, 2016 Serena Yates rated it really liked it · review of another edition

Shelves: read-2016, gay, steampunk, magic

In a world that is much like one to be found in a Steampunk universe, it may be 1914 and some of the politics and the fact that there is a world war are familiar, but it is a very different version of reality than the one we know from our past. Clockwork machinery rules the day, but steam does not drive it, rather it is powered by magic (technomancy), diesel (hence the author has dubbed this Dieselpunk), or the highly illegal energy of souls (necromancy). The Austro-Hungarian and the German empi In a world that is much like one to be found in a Steampunk universe, it may be 1914 and some of the politics and the fact that there is a world war are familiar, but it is a very different version of reality than the one we know from our past. Clockwork machinery rules the day, but steam does not drive it, rather it is powered by magic (technomancy), diesel (hence the author has dubbed this Dieselpunk), or the highly illegal energy of souls (necromancy). The Austro-Hungarian and the German empire under the leadership of the Prussians are fighting the Tsar and the Russian Empire, while France and other nations have not yet joined the war. Zeppelins and giant soldiers in the form of human-powered exoskeletons are supporting the fight, and numerous other fascinating little details make this alternate reality come to life. The result is an imaginative action/adventure that is suspenseful and very entertaining.

Konstantin is an archmage from Vienna on loan to Prussia so he can help figure out the superior Russian clockwork war machines. He is dedicated to the work in his lab and not very sociable, and his preference for men will get him killed if he is discovered since sodomy is illegal. But there is a certain zeppelin captain who is hard to resist, and when they are sent on a “diplomatic” mission – read: they are supposed to spy for the Austro-Hungarian/German alliance – to St. Petersburg, Konstantin and Theodore give in to temptation. Of course this has disastrous consequences, and added to Konstantin’s attempts to stop the Russians from using illegal means to win the war, things get a lot worse for both of them before they have a chance to improve the situation.

If you like imaginative worlds that are only vaguely related to our own, if two men who fight almost insurmountable odds to be together are your thing, and if you’re looking for a suspenseful adventure with lots of mishaps, funny moments, and some fantastical technology, then you will probably like this novella.

NOTE: This book was provided by the author for the purpose of a review on Rainbow Book Reviews. ...more

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Sep 11, 2015 Vidya-BooksAreMagic rated it really liked it · review of another edition

Shelves: fantasy, historical-romance, blog-tour, 2015-reads

I am not new to fantasy or historical or romance part of the genres. But, still I found Clockwork Menagerie to be something new. Konstantin (I do not know before now that I love this name - I think it's the spelling part that does it ;) ) is an Archmage and has struggled a lot to have achieved what he is now. He is working hard to save his homeland and be with the man he loves. Himmel, the love interest of Konstantin, is the polar opposite of Konstantin. While Konstantin is shy, nerdy and smart, ...more

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Sep 04, 2015 Talk Supe added it

Shelves: 2015

My first taste of Kincy's steampunk world and it won't be the last.

THE ADVENTURE: I loved that it took us to Russia with an underdog for a hero. The technology is very steampunk with a touch of paranormalcy which puts the series right up y alley.

THE ROMANCE: This novella is MM romance.
It didn't consume the story although it's there.
It's not too raunchy too, but it wasn't fade to black either. Kincy just didn't linger on the acts.

CLOCKWORK MENAGERIE is paced well with a plot that's ambitious yet ...more

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Sep 14, 2015 Leeanna rated it liked it

Shelves: e-book, arcs, for-review, blog-tour

This review originally appeared on my blog, Leeanna.me.

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CLOCKWORK MENAGERIE is a novella set in the dieselpunk world of the Shadows of Asphodel series. While the series mainly follows Ardis and Wendel, this novella focuses on Archmage Konstantin and zeppelin captain Himmel. The two are part of a diplomatic mission to Russia, Austria-Hungary’s enemy. Konstantin is just supposed to observe Russia’s technomancy, but he’s distracted by two things: his attraction to Himmel and the illegal use of ...more

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Aug 23, 2015 Wattle rated it really liked it · review of another edition

Shelves: fantasy, new-adult, for-review, read-in-2015, steampunk

I received this book for free in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.

Plot: Konstantin is an Archmage, sent to St. Petersburg with an ambassador to view some of the technomancy Russia has to offer, with strict instructions to not cause any trouble. Of course, trouble finds him when he realises who they are up against, and he will do all he can to stop them causing more harm to the world. Along for the ride is Himmel, an airship ca I received this book for free in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.

Plot: Konstantin is an Archmage, sent to St. Petersburg with an ambassador to view some of the technomancy Russia has to offer, with strict instructions to not cause any trouble. Of course, trouble finds him when he realises who they are up against, and he will do all he can to stop them causing more harm to the world. Along for the ride is Himmel, an airship captain who Konstantin has feelings for.

My Thoughts: I love Konstantin, and I love the fact that he is totally the opposite of straight. This is a romance story of sorts, with his (forbidden) love interest accompanying him and the ambassador on the trip. But it still felt weird reading about this 'verse from his point of view.

It was cool to see more of the technology behind the series, and it was fun being back amongst it all for 100 short pages. I wanted more (as always) and think this would have benefited from being a little longer. Parts of the story felt a little rushed, and the romance didn't really grab my attention.

Which is a bit weird, because I quite favour m/m romance stories over heterosexual ones, but I think because there was plot the romance sort of got squished into a corner? I didn't feel the threat that the characters did about it being forbidden (though I did rather enjoy their interactions over a dog haha)

The plot itself was okay, it sort of felt like it deserved a novel of its own with the discovery of how the Russians are powering their tech; and the lengths they'll go to to win. It baffled me a bit as to why they'd be venturing into enemy territory, but I guess these things happen for peace talks and goodwill and all that jazz. And I guess, when one nation wants to show off :P

As always, the writing is great and really hooks you from the start. And that cover! Look at it! All of these novels have such lovely covers to just stare at.

In Brief: All in all, a nice companion novella to the Shadows of Asphodel series. I wouldn't say it was strictly necessary to read it, but it's still fun to revisit this world through another set of eyes! ...more

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Sep 17, 2015 Floryie rated it really liked it

*Free copy from the publisher for an honest review*

I actually read this book as a standalone. I hadn't read any of the previous books in the series, Shadows of Asphodel and I think it did pretty well just on its own. I wish I had known it was a part of a series. As much as I liked reading it, I would have preferred to have gone in with more knowledge about the world and the characters.

That being said, let me start with the story line. It was flawlessly done as far as I am concerned. I am a newbi *Free copy from the publisher for an honest review*

I actually read this book as a standalone. I hadn't read any of the previous books in the series, Shadows of Asphodel and I think it did pretty well just on its own. I wish I had known it was a part of a series. As much as I liked reading it, I would have preferred to have gone in with more knowledge about the world and the characters.

That being said, let me start with the story line. It was flawlessly done as far as I am concerned. I am a newbie to Karen Kincy's writing and it is a great introduction to her. I would definitely check her other works out when I have the time. The plot was decisive and well suited for a novella. The start is done well with the right amount of intrigue followed by the action part to end with a non cliff hanger finale. That's what I liked most about it.

The characters were developed only to a certain part. I would have liked to know more about them and their views of the war they are part of. Only few of their thoughts are revealed in this book. Maybe more light will be shed in the coming books?? Konstantin seems to be a bit delicate and at times childish while Theodore comes across as a strong person. They are complete opposites and that's one of the strong points of their romance.

Now coming to the romance element of the story, I felt it was a bit too instant but it might be because I missed the previous books. The book has steamy M/M scenes. If I had known about it earlier, I would never have picked up the book, to be honest. I just skimmed those parts since I wasn't comfortable with it and it was something out of my comfort zone.

The parts I absolutely loved about the book were the steampunk, sci-fi/fantasy parts. Those rocked my world!! For that alone, I would rate it a 5 star but alas I have to take the other points into account too. The concept of technomancy and psychothaumaturgy were totally new and intriguing for me. I am hooked to them and I hope to read the series from the first book!

In short, the novella was a very fast read and I finished it in a few hours.

My one line review : A fast paced sci-fi fantasy with intriguing storyline

My rating : 4/5

My reread factor : 3/5 ...more

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Aug 01, 2015 Jamie (Books and Ladders) rated it really liked it

Shelves: on-kobo

For my full review visit Books and Ladders

Disclaimer: I received a free copy of this book via the publisher in exchange for an honest review

This one was such a good interlude and refresher on the Shadows of Asphodel story line. I loved Konstantin since the first time we met him and he grew into such a great character that I was super excited to see that he got his own novella. I love him and Himmel together and I was really excited to see that this story focused more so on the two of them than a ...more

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Oct 12, 2015 Babel rated it really liked it

Shelves: series, steamy, secrets, action, magic, novella, steampunk, adventure

I was delighted to come back to the steampunk world of the Archmages of Vienna and their technomancy, a Europe on the brink of war, and zeppelin adventures.

Even for as short a time as this 90-page novella allows, it was so worth it. I had the chance to reacquaint myself with a couple of interesting characters such as archmage Konstantin Falkenrath and captain Himmel.

Sucked into a diplomatic venture into imposing Russia, they have to uncover the deadly secrets behind illegal use of soul magic in ...more

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Sep 22, 2015 Alysha DeShaé rated it it was amazing

Shelves: science-fiction, fantasy, young-adult, romance, steampunk, novelette-novella

See my full review here: http://alyshadeshae.com/2015/09/22/blog-tour-clockwork-menagerie-by-karen-kincy/

Disclaimer: I received an ARC from the publisher for an honest review.

You know those books that you want to like, but don’t and can’t figure out why? What about those books that are so poorly written you can barely get past the words to read the story? Or maybe you’re aware of those books that start out with such potential and then just fall short of the mark and you’re more disappointed than ...more

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Sep 14, 2015 Reading Reindeer 2021 On Proxima Centauri rated it it was amazing

Shelves: 2015_alternate-history, 2015_world_book_challenge_lp, 2015_reads, a1-i-own-books, september_2015_reads, steampunk, armchair-germany-austria, armchair-eastern-europe, a1-curiosity-quills-reviewed, 2015__leviathan-behemoth

Review: CLOCKWORK MENAGERIE by Karen Kincy

By far my favorite of this exciting series [SHADOWS OF ASPHODEL], this companion novella is "Dieselpunk Romance" for the gentlemen. Technomancer Archmage Konstantin and Airship Captain Theodore Himmel pair off. What a glorious spark, matching a world-wise Navy captain, with that pilot mystique--bold and daring; and a true research scientist: dedicated, diligent, nerdy, and sometimes potentially dreary. Put these two on a diplomatic mission from 1914 Pru ...more

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Aug 06, 2017 Holly rated it it was ok · review of another edition

I picked this up on Amazon not realising that it was a sequel. That meant that some of the progression felt rushed due to it leaning on character building from previous books that I haven't read. Still, it was easy enough to read.

The world is fascinating and well done, and the author has a talent for descriptions. Unfortunately, the pacing felt very rough, it was more like a sequence of essential scenes than a smooth progression. The reason this book got two stars instead of four is the ending. ...more

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Jul 13, 2020 Ken Cook rated it really liked it · review of another edition

Novella length tale set in wartime with magical mechanicals key to the battles. Archangel an explain pilot portrayed as the good guys. Entertaining, well written plot with excellent descriptions of environment.

.As I am a gatherer of books, I collect books and ebooks from a variety of sources: Goodreads wins, Bookhub, BookFunnel, emails from authors and publishers, and others. I do lose track of their sources. But, as a reader, I feel I should give an honest, unencumbered review for all I read.

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Jan 08, 2020 Quinn rated it liked it · review of another edition

Shelves: fantasy

3.5 stars

Didn't realise this was a novella in the midst of a series, but it absolutely explained the super steamy kiss that happened on page 1. Phew.

Really enjoyed the steampunk and magic system. Read the excerpt on Wendel, from Shadows of Asphodel, and I think I'm hooked. ...more

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Jun 25, 2018 Veronikah rated it liked it · review of another edition

Shelves: faves, historical-fiction, paranormal-and-supernatural, dieselpunk

Konstantin and Himmel are dramatically adorable yo

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Aug 30, 2015 Charlie rated it really liked it

The Skinny
All of Europe was a mess of alliances, each country eager to defend its honor.
It is 1914 and Konstantin is busy trying to dissect the clockwork dragon. However, he has orders to act as a scientific attaché in St. Petersburg. The mission must uphold diplomacy fully, but once Konstantin discovers a sinister and unethical technomancy practice in his Russian rival he begins to cross the diplomatic lines. Add into the mix Captain Himmel, who makes Konstantin’s cogs whir even though such a r ...more

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Sep 21, 2015 Dave Higgins rated it really liked it

Shelves: reviewed

Intermingling the fast-paced action of a spy thriller with solid character development against a background of clockwork mysticism, Kincy produces a story that will appeal to a broad range of speculative fiction readers.

Archmage Konstantin would like nothing more than to devote his time to studying the clockwork dragon Vienna has captured from Russia. However, his undeniable, and very illegal, mutual attraction to Captain Himmel leaves both his schedule and his notes in a mess. And no sooner has Intermingling the fast-paced action of a spy thriller with solid character development against a background of clockwork mysticism, Kincy produces a story that will appeal to a broad range of speculative fiction readers.

Archmage Konstantin would like nothing more than to devote his time to studying the clockwork dragon Vienna has captured from Russia. However, his undeniable, and very illegal, mutual attraction to Captain Himmel leaves both his schedule and his notes in a mess. And no sooner has he convinced Himmel nothing can come of it, than Vienna assigns him as technical advisor to their ambassador to Russia; a role that involves taking extended passage on Himmel’s dirigible. Between Konstantin’s desires and his lack of political experience, the question isn’t whether he will embarrass himself but which social construct will collapse around him first.

The novella is set in a Europe politically and socially at the early 20th Century where complex clockwork (called technomancy) rather than combustion forms the backbone of military might. Parallel to pure clockwork, but banned by international convention, are other techniques that produce more efficient mechanisms.

While the extent of technomancy and its dark companion are revealed as the book progresses, it is not clear at the start (perhaps because this is a supporting volume to an existing series) why Konstantin is called a mage rather than an engineer. This somewhat blurs the line between acceptable machinery and not, potentially robbing Konstantin’s early suspicions of some of their impact.

However – possible nuances of engineering and magic aside – the story is a well-crafted example of a character’s knowledge and experience revealing a threat that their own superiors would rather continued discretely than ended publicly.

In parallel to the international politics, Kincy weaves the developing relationship between Konstanin and Himmel. Showing Konstantin’s mix of disgust and joy while writing the intimacy itself in the language of romance, she portrays the internal struggle of someone who doesn’t fit society’s model of normal without letting that in-world judgement become an objective assessment of sexuality itself.

Although the relationship flows naturally from the characters rather than being a salacious addition, Kincy does not hide the physical aspects of stolen moments of passion. As such, while the book is in nowise erotica, readers who prefer romance to be kisses and implication might find some scenes too graphic.

Konstantin is an interesting variant on the socially awkward scientist, shaped but not defined by his sexuality. His obvious intellect provides both successes and failures in international espionage, sometimes because directness catches others off guard and sometimes because he does the logical thing rather than the acceptable thing. This balance makes him both plausible and sympathetic.

The supporting cast are equally composed of plausible tensions: Himmel is the bluff military officer yet is also politically adept, and has reached his own unstable accommodation with his sexuality making him both support and obstacle to Konstantin’s well-being; the Ambassador is insightful yet supports the shallow veneer of international politics over the benefits of truth.

Overall, I enjoyed this novella greatly. I recommend it both to readers seeking steampunk driven by characters not technology, and those who enjoy a good thriller.

I received a free copy from the publisher in exchange for a fair review. ...more

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Nov 05, 2015 Krystin rated it liked it

Archmage Konstantin Falkenrath is called to act as a scientific attache for the Austria-Hungary Ambassador to Russia when he is sent on a diplomatic mission to discover what they can about the technomancy weapons the Russians have been deploying in the war. Captain Theodore Himmel is the decorated navy airship captain assigned to the mission, and despite the many laws against it – with punishments up to and including death – both the Archmage and the Captain find themselves desperately drawn to Archmage Konstantin Falkenrath is called to act as a scientific attache for the Austria-Hungary Ambassador to Russia when he is sent on a diplomatic mission to discover what they can about the technomancy weapons the Russians have been deploying in the war. Captain Theodore Himmel is the decorated navy airship captain assigned to the mission, and despite the many laws against it – with punishments up to and including death – both the Archmage and the Captain find themselves desperately drawn to each other. His orders are “look but don’t touch” but this command becomes increasingly difficult to follow in more ways than one. Konstantin finds himself in over his head in matters of magic and love, and must decide with the help of his loyal Captain if saving his country and his relationship are worth his job…and possibly his life.

I am not a big fan of romance, at all, and I didn’t read the two books this novella comes from so I didn’t know the characters, but, come on, how could I not read it straight through when the first line is “Pity the clockwork dragon had been so violent”?! I definitely now want to read Shadows of Asphodel and Storms of Lazarus to learn more about Konstantin and Himmel, and this technomancy war they’re in. I don’t feel like I got to learn a whole lot in the novella – it’s clear they were established characters, and the novella focused more on the development of their relationship (both sexual and romantic) with the diplomatic mission as a sort of background plot to that. It does stand on its own, however, and I didn’t feel that I was missing anything important by reading it this way.

I felt about this novella as I do about most romances. While the background plot was incredibly interesting, it was not very detailed and served mostly to further the romance and sexual encounters. The characters were not very in-depth. They personified certain personality traits (Konstantin was curious and socially awkward, Himmel was loyal and passionate) and didn’t have any real growth throughout the story, nor was there any real description of background characters (who were overwhelmingly male). While the story took place in some beautiful locales (Austria-Hungary, Russia, Vienna, an airship) there is no real detail about the world around them. The novella is very tightly focused on the relationship.

If you’re looking for a titillating read about forbidden love, this fits the bill. It’s an easy, fun read with a series to follow up on if you’re interested in more. It isn’t a serious read so it’s perfect for a lazy night on the couch with something hot to drink, or for those long commutes on the bus when your brain needs a break after work.

**I received a free ARC in exchange for an honest review. My review first appeared on my blog on 9/15/15** ...more

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Oct 02, 2015 Janis Hill rated it liked it

Shelves: arc-review-not-netgalley, steampunk-romance, urban-fantasy

I would like to thank Curiosity Quills Press for an ARC of this Novella in exchange for an open and honest review.

This was a good story; my only regret about it is that I wasn’t paying attention when I requested it to see it was a novella and book “2.5” in a series I’d not yet read. Totally my own fault as Curiosity Quills did say it was what it was, but I’m a bit of a diva about coming into a series midway and so couldn’t give this story a higher grade as I wasn’t caught up on it all.

Saying tha I would like to thank Curiosity Quills Press for an ARC of this Novella in exchange for an open and honest review.

This was a good story; my only regret about it is that I wasn’t paying attention when I requested it to see it was a novella and book “2.5” in a series I’d not yet read. Totally my own fault as Curiosity Quills did say it was what it was, but I’m a bit of a diva about coming into a series midway and so couldn’t give this story a higher grade as I wasn’t caught up on it all.

Saying that, I did enjoy reading it as a stand-alone type story, but would have liked more history on the world in which it was set, which I’m pretty sure the first to books would have given me.

My only other minor gripe (it seriously is minor) is that it was more of a romance story than the urban fantasy/ steampunk I had been hoping for. I have no problem that it is “male on male” romance as that’s perfectly natural, and I don’t mind romance stories… but I am getting frustrated at the amount of paranormal, supernatural, steampunk and urban fantasy stories that seem to need to rely on sex and romance to be an interesting read. The romance in this book was good. The minor sex scenes were done well and didn’t hog the lime light. I just feel it would be nice to see more urban fantasy (and similar genres) not needing the romance sub-genre to get by. Okay, getting down off my little soapbox on that one. ;-)

Other than that, I loved it. I want to know more about the world in which it is set, its technology, history, etc. So that is a well written story when the world captures your entire imagination and draws you in.

Would I recommend this book to others? I would mention it in passing to those interested in urban fantasy and steampunk worlds, but would warn people this isn’t the first in the series and would suggest they check out the first two books before reading this one.

Would I buy this book for myself? Possibly. The excellent writing style and world created intrigued me enough to go check out the first two books, but as they too seem to heavily rely on romance to be a story… I’m really undecided as to whether I’d buy them to read them. I’m more likely to be a cheapskate and look out for them in my library catalogue first to see if I could cope with the romance and see if it was the lead genre or the sub-genre of the stories.

In summary: A good story concept, a good little novella adventure. But not the first in the series and not a pure urban fantasy/ steampunk genre tale. Contains romance and should include this in its genre statement.
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Jul 31, 2016 Sarina rated it really liked it · review of another edition

Shelves: historical, fantasy, science-fiction, military, first-time, 101-350-pages, steampunk, love-bytes-reviews, dieselpunk

Review written for Love Bytes Reviews.

Ordered to accompany a diplomatic mission to Russia, Konstantin can’t help but feel out of place. With no knowledge of the Russian language, strict orders not to touch anything or speak out of turn, and an experiment awaiting him back home in his lab, Konstantin would rather be ensconced in his own space and left to his own devices. Add one devastatingly handsome zeppelin commander to the list of things he can’t touch and the trip has officially become a wor Review written for Love Bytes Reviews.

Ordered to accompany a diplomatic mission to Russia, Konstantin can’t help but feel out of place. With no knowledge of the Russian language, strict orders not to touch anything or speak out of turn, and an experiment awaiting him back home in his lab, Konstantin would rather be ensconced in his own space and left to his own devices. Add one devastatingly handsome zeppelin commander to the list of things he can’t touch and the trip has officially become a world class example of torture. When an unexpected discovery leaves Konstantin stranded and without a job, he’ll have to make a choice: go home in shame or take a chance and do something that will either end the war or land him in jail.

I’ve never heard of dieselpunk before but I really hope this isn’t the last book I read that uses it. (Think steampunk only instead of mechanicals run on either magic or steam, they’re run on magic or diesel fuel.) I’ve also not read any of the previous books in the series as they’re all M/F as far as I can tell but this was a great introduction to the world the author has created and I found this interesting enough to give the other books a look. While some knowledge of the previous books would’ve been helpful at the beginning of the story context wise, enough information was given along the way to know exactly what was going on so I had no problems understanding and enjoying the story. I adored Konstantin; he was a great protagonist and it was hard not to admire his determination to do what was right no matter the cost to himself. I really enjoyed Himmel, as well, though I do wish I had more of his back story. He and Konstantin seemed well matched and his actions both during and at the end of the story spoke volumes about what sort of man he is.

The setting of the story was great, the world building was great, I loved the characters and my only complaint is that I wasn’t ready to be done with them yet. I’m not sure if the main characters here will appear later on in the series again but, if they do, it will be another point in favor of checking the other books out. If you like steampunk I’d highly recommend you check this one out, even if you don’t give the other books in the series a second look, as it was really well done and really enjoyable.

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Mar 13, 2016 Sonja rated it liked it · review of another edition

Shelves: netgalley

I am not into m/m books. At all. So why did I read this one you ask? I had no idea it was one. When I requested this, it was because it was a Shadows of Asphodel novella and I probably only read the first paragraph of the synopsis. I knew it was from Konstantin's point of view but I figured it would just be a short tie in of his to the main story. Should have read that second paragraph sooner... But I already had it, so I had to read it. And honestly, it took quite a while to finally get good. E I am not into m/m books. At all. So why did I read this one you ask? I had no idea it was one. When I requested this, it was because it was a Shadows of Asphodel novella and I probably only read the first paragraph of the synopsis. I knew it was from Konstantin's point of view but I figured it would just be a short tie in of his to the main story. Should have read that second paragraph sooner... But I already had it, so I had to read it. And honestly, it took quite a while to finally get good. Eventually things picked up toward the end and I was glad for that.

It was easy enough to get over the m/m moments between Konstantin and Himmel because they made me laugh each time, it was so awkward. And thank gawd it didn't actually go that far. I don't think Konstantin was a very good main character. He was so out of place everywhere he went and with everything he did. Except, of course, when it came to the technomancy. I disliked Himmel for the simple fact that, considering the consequences of what could happen to them, he was incredibly pushy and too open about being more than friends with Konstantin.

When Konstantin is assigned a diplomatic mission to Russia, he's definitely not happy about being taken away from the clockwork dragon. Nothing goes well for him there, especially when he's told to observe only and don't touch. Making things worse is Himmel being there and the feelings he stirs in him. But things go from bad to worse when Konstantin finds out who is responsible for the illegal act of capturing souls and trapping them in machines. Being told to leave it be, he takes things into his own hands which only makes things worse for him. Eventually he manages to expose the criminal and deal a great blow to the Russians, but it costs him something big. I did not like that ending though. (view spoiler)

Copy provided by publisher via Netgalley. ...more

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Aug 02, 2015 Melissa ♥ Melissa's Eclectic Bookshelf rated it liked it

Shelves: owned-ebook, reviewed-pub-or-author

Clockwork Menagerie was an interesting chance for a little insight into Archmage Konstantin’s work and his budding relationship with Himmel. I enjoyed both of their characters and was happy to realize that this was their story. As usual Kontantin did annoy me a bit, he just seems way too immature for his age but it didn’t hinder my enjoyemnt of the novella too much.

As usual Karen Kincy’s writing is superb, the plot flowed effortlessly and the descriptives are amazing. I love living in a new worl Clockwork Menagerie was an interesting chance for a little insight into Archmage Konstantin’s work and his budding relationship with Himmel. I enjoyed both of their characters and was happy to realize that this was their story. As usual Kontantin did annoy me a bit, he just seems way too immature for his age but it didn’t hinder my enjoyemnt of the novella too much.

As usual Karen Kincy’s writing is superb, the plot flowed effortlessly and the descriptives are amazing. I love living in a new world through her eyes and the taste of St. Petersburg that we got in this novella was rich and gorgeous.

The deiselpunk aspects of the story – the technomancy and psychothaumaturgy – boggled my mind just a bit, but it’s easy enough to set ones questions aside and just go with the flow of the story.

Magic is Magic after all.

I love how imaginative the Shadows of Asphodel series is!

The M/M romance in this one was something completely new and a bit outside of my comfort zone. To be honest, although we all knew where these two were headed, I wish there had been a bit more development of their relationship. It just seemed a bit too rushed and inevitable feeling. (I skimmed through the few love scenes that there were…they were relatively short and tastefully done but were fairly explicit.)

I do wish that Kincy had taken a bit more time to delve into the feeling of each of the men regarding the wqar efforts and the cost involved. Konstantin has a bit of a crisis of conscience toward the end of the novella and Himmel makes some compelling ppoints which I felt would have been a great jumping bourd to delve a bit deeper into both of their psyches. I was disappointed that Kincy chose not to go there.

And I can’t deny that I missed Ardis and Wendel.

But perhaps that is due to the nature of writing a novella. There’s just never enough time to develop the story as much as in a full novel.

All in all, a strong effort and a solid addition to the Shadows of Asphodel series. I definitely recommend reading Clockwork Menagerie if you’ve enjoyed the first two books in the series. ...more

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Sep 08, 2015 Sarah rated it really liked it

Shelves: four-star-reviews, ebook, arc

Clockwork Menagerie is a very quick read set in the rich world of Karen Kincy's Shadows of Asphodel series. It takes place in an alternate historical world on the cusp of WWII, and is categorized best as steampunk or dieselpunk. We follow archmage Konstantin as he finds himself dragged into perhaps more political intrigue than he'd like -- he wants to stay in his lab and do his experiments, but life has other plans for him. He winds up in Russia where, well, drama seems to find him.

Konstantin is Clockwork Menagerie is a very quick read set in the rich world of Karen Kincy's Shadows of Asphodel series. It takes place in an alternate historical world on the cusp of WWII, and is categorized best as steampunk or dieselpunk. We follow archmage Konstantin as he finds himself dragged into perhaps more political intrigue than he'd like -- he wants to stay in his lab and do his experiments, but life has other plans for him. He winds up in Russia where, well, drama seems to find him.

Konstantin is a fun character -- he reminded me a lot of a combination of the scientist characters in Pacific Rim. Nerdy, kind of awkward, but very very good at his job and, when it comes down to it, has a good heart, too. I liked the glimpses that we saw of his relationship with Himmel, which is fraught with danger in many ways. I'd love to read more about them, and am curious to see how they will figure in to any future books in the series.

Despite the story's brief length, the plot felt fully realized and I felt like I had a good grasp on each of the characters throughout. I could easily see this as perhaps an HBO miniseries or something with its quick pacing.

If I had any complaint, it's that sometimes it was hard to tell just how much time had passed in between scenes. There is a lot of travel (zeppelin, train, etc.) over long distances and I was never really sure if the characters hadn't seen each other for a day, a week, or more. It's a minor quibble to be sure and didn't interfere with my enjoyment of the story.

Although this novella is part of a series, it stands alone very well. I've never read the other books in the series and had no problem following along. Readers familiar with the series will of course have greater understanding of the world/context for the characters but I didn't feel disadvantaged by coming in fresh. If anything, reading this makes me want to go back and read the first two books in the series.

Finally, this story does have some sexual content so is probably best for more mature readers. ...more

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Sep 15, 2015 Sarah-Jayne Briggs rated it really liked it

(I received a free copy of this book in exchange for a review).

(This review may contain spoilers).

Having read the previous two books in this series, I was really happy to have the opportunity to read this novella set in the same universe.

I liked being able to see Konstantin and Himmel in this story. Although I would have liked to see the events expanded a bit, it was nice to see the hints in the previous book come to fruition.

It was interesting to see Konstantin from his own perspective. Althoug (I received a free copy of this book in exchange for a review).

(This review may contain spoilers).

Having read the previous two books in this series, I was really happy to have the opportunity to read this novella set in the same universe.

I liked being able to see Konstantin and Himmel in this story. Although I would have liked to see the events expanded a bit, it was nice to see the hints in the previous book come to fruition.

It was interesting to see Konstantin from his own perspective. Although he was a well-rounded character in the previous books (and there were times I felt sorry for him), it added a new dimension to be able to see him as a main, focal character.

I thought the author did a good job of showing Konstantin’s struggle with what he wanted and the laws that were in place. It was interesting that, for all the advances in society, the people didn’t have the freedom to love those they were attracted to. I found it really easy to follow Konstantin’s struggle… and see how he wanted to be with Himmel but was scared of losing everything.

It was good to see some of the clockwork technology, though I wasn’t sure how the soul elements really fit in. Because the book was shorter, the villain wasn’t as well-rounded as they could have been.

I liked seeing Konstantin with the dog and it was good to see him interacting with the other characters. I was a bit disappointed that the elements of conflict shown to begin with weren’t expanded upon… but I did believe in the main characters’ feelings for each other. And by the end, I was rooting for them to get together.

It was a bit disappointing not to have the opportunity to see more of the characters from the previous two books, since I would have liked to see how Konstantin viewed them. I did like the fact that he was still an active character and didn’t just rely constantly on his magic, or for someone else to save the day.

I’d definitely be interested in reading more books in this series in the future. This was quick and easy to read… but it did leave me wanting more. ...more

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Aug 30, 2015 Lina (From the Verge) rated it really liked it

Shelves: steampunk, dragons

I am so happy I was able to pay a nice visit to the world portrayed in the Shadows of Asphodel's books. This alternate history with gears, zeppelins, complicated magic, war and engaging characters is a must read! I've contributed to Karen Kincy's Kickstarter campaigns to finance her previous Shadows of Asphodel books, thus I was thrilled I got the opportunity to read & review this story for its Blog Tour launch!

This novella gave me all that I expected regarding previous Karen Kincy's stories. Ev ...more

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Aug 22, 2015 Terri M. rated it really liked it · review of another edition

Shelves: format-ebooks, source-arc, fantasy, reading-lvl-adult, steampunk, action-adventure, historical-fiction, military

Mind Blown!

I have been eyeing this series since the first book popped up in the blogosphere. Heck, I even own the first book, but haven’t read it. After finishing this short novella, the first book may be the next book I read.

It doesn’t appear to be necessary to have read the first two novels in the series to understand what is going on in “Clockwork Menagerie.” This isn’t always the case with series novellas. This short peek into Konstantin’s and Himmel’s lives will give you a taste for the die ...more

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