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Magic & Machinery #2
The Blood Thief of Whitten Hall
In a world of science, magic is an abomination, but not the vile creation Royal Inquisitor Simon Whitlock once believed it to be. Accompanied by his apothecary companion, Luthor Strong, and Matilda Hawke, a werewolf, they return to the capital of Callifax, eager to convalesce after their last adventure.
Their peace is short-lived, however, as they are quickly sent on another mission. It seems the iron mines of Whitten Hall have ceased their production, no longer sending its ore to the crown. The Ministry of Trade has sent inquiries, but its representatives have all fled from the train ride to the distal outpost. It seems a vampire stalks the trains in and out of Whitten Hall, a vampire that will reveal the secret of the iron mine and the darkness that resides within.
Their peace is short-lived, however, as they are quickly sent on another mission. It seems the iron mines of Whitten Hall have ceased their production, no longer sending its ore to the crown. The Ministry of Trade has sent inquiries, but its representatives have all fled from the train ride to the distal outpost. It seems a vampire stalks the trains in and out of Whitten Hall, a vampire that will reveal the secret of the iron mine and the darkness that resides within.
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First published August 25, 2015
13 people are currently reading
639 people want to read
About the author
Jon Messenger
27 books304 followersJon Messenger (Born 1979 in London, England) serves as an United States Army Major in the Medical Service Corps. Since graduating from the University of Southern California in 2002, writing Science Fiction has remained his passion, a passion that has continued through multiple combat and humanitarian deployments. Jon wrote the "Brink of Distinction" trilogy, of which "Burden of Sisyphus" is the first book, while serving a 16-month deployment in Baghdad, Iraq.
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Displaying 1 - 12 of 12 reviews
August 31, 2015
The Blood Thief of Whitten Hall picks up shortly after the events of The Wolves of the Northern Rift, and marks the return of Royal Inquisitor Simon Whitlock and his apothecary assistant Luthor Strong. Shortly after returning from Haversham, they're sent off on another investigation to Whitten Hall. I loved the first book for the humor, but this one felt slightly darker in tone. I think the reason why this one will stay with me for a while is because of the psychological and ethical questions that are raised in Simon's mind, the situations he finds himself in, the way in which he ultimately deals with them, and the affect his choices have on others. At the end of the book, and before the epilogue, I found myself thinking that this is a side of him that wasn't fully on display in the first one, and think that makes him more compelling. Mattie, the werewolf from the first book, also returns, and accompanies them on their journey. Being a confessed fan of vampires, Mattie is such an interesting character that I can't help but like her.
I think that's why I was completely drawn in to this novel, not to mention I really fell in love with both Simon and Luthor in the first book and I had been looking forward to reading The Blood Thief of Whitten Hall. I wasn't disappointed, as there are traces of the humor from the first book, but this one had a lot more action as well. What I think is one of the greatest strengths after reading two books in The Magic and Machinery series is the world building. It feels fully fleshed out, and has a definite steampunk vibe to it. Just from the descriptions alone, I can picture the scenes in my mind as I read this novel. There are multiple story arcs too, and the epilogue from both books hints at that. I really want to read book three now to see where this story is heading. So now the question is, when is book 3 coming out?
My rating is 5/5 platypires.
I think that's why I was completely drawn in to this novel, not to mention I really fell in love with both Simon and Luthor in the first book and I had been looking forward to reading The Blood Thief of Whitten Hall. I wasn't disappointed, as there are traces of the humor from the first book, but this one had a lot more action as well. What I think is one of the greatest strengths after reading two books in The Magic and Machinery series is the world building. It feels fully fleshed out, and has a definite steampunk vibe to it. Just from the descriptions alone, I can picture the scenes in my mind as I read this novel. There are multiple story arcs too, and the epilogue from both books hints at that. I really want to read book three now to see where this story is heading. So now the question is, when is book 3 coming out?
My rating is 5/5 platypires.
September 18, 2015
I think that fans of Gail Carriger will enjoy this series. I can totally imagine Alexia in this world. I have been thinking I need more steampunk in my life so I was glad that I got the chance to read this book. Sadly I didn't have the time to read the first one. I was able to jump in and enjoy it from the start without being massively confused. I will be checking out other books by Jon and of course at some point I do plan on reading the first book in this series and will continue to read it.
I really like the picture at the start of each chapter. The pocket watch and the gears are a fun addition to a great book. I also think this will appeal to fans of Supernatural or Buffy since Simon along with his fellow Inquisitors hunt demons. I really do think the world in this series and the world in the Parasol Protectorate series would make a great crossover. If only books did that. Yes my fangirl is totally geeking out right now. This is a fun read with great characters and a story that will suck you in from the start. I look forward to reading more.
http://www.ficgal.com/book-club/the-b...
I really like the picture at the start of each chapter. The pocket watch and the gears are a fun addition to a great book. I also think this will appeal to fans of Supernatural or Buffy since Simon along with his fellow Inquisitors hunt demons. I really do think the world in this series and the world in the Parasol Protectorate series would make a great crossover. If only books did that. Yes my fangirl is totally geeking out right now. This is a fun read with great characters and a story that will suck you in from the start. I look forward to reading more.
http://www.ficgal.com/book-club/the-b...
August 28, 2015
Jon really outdid himself on the second book of this series. Generally authors seem to follow the same formula for each book, but this second book starts out very differently by giving us a much deeper look into the 'normal' part of life for the two main characters, Luthor and Simon. Simon's love interest is reveled and plenty of the storyline is dedicated to it. Once the main adventure gets underway we are once again thrown into a world where magical beings must be dealt with and where nothing is as it first appears. This story is expertly crafted with beautiful word imagery. I was caught off guard more than a few times with some surprising twists and turns, which is always appreciated. Overall, an incredible book that begs for at least two prequels, to give us even more background on Simon and Luthor, and will leave you impatiently waiting for the next book in the series to come out. This book is a little risqué, so maybe not the best for younger readers, but not a smutty romance novel at all. Keep the books coming please!
August 25, 2015
This is the second book in the new Magic & Machinery Novel series by Jon Messenger. With steampunk topping out my reading list at the moment I was excited to see this series moving along and new books popping up.
Book 2 has a new enemy to deal with but continues with the main characters you had in book 1. It probably could stand on it's own ... but personally I feel you would be missing out on a LOT of the amazing backstory if you chose to do that. Oh and book 1 is FREE so really you don't have anything to lose ;)
The characters and the mystery is great! So far I am yet to guess an ending but I feel that the clues are there I just need to get a better grasp on the rules and the author. Be warned ... that is my next task :D
Book 3 is already listing as coming soon so get caught up now!
Another easy 5 stars from me! V""V
Book 2 has a new enemy to deal with but continues with the main characters you had in book 1. It probably could stand on it's own ... but personally I feel you would be missing out on a LOT of the amazing backstory if you chose to do that. Oh and book 1 is FREE so really you don't have anything to lose ;)
The characters and the mystery is great! So far I am yet to guess an ending but I feel that the clues are there I just need to get a better grasp on the rules and the author. Be warned ... that is my next task :D
Book 3 is already listing as coming soon so get caught up now!
Another easy 5 stars from me! V""V
May 22, 2019
This series so far is reminiscent of a mixture = "Holmes and Watson" + "Van Helsing" and a good smattering of "The League of Extraordinary Gentlemen" where the members of the group are first coming together as a working team but still have space for new potential recruits. ****
October 29, 2021
Liked it
Personally, I really enjoyed the book. It's witty and funny and quite creative. Simon and Luthor's friendship really is one of the most honest portrayals of best friends I've seen in books so far.
Personally, I really enjoyed the book. It's witty and funny and quite creative. Simon and Luthor's friendship really is one of the most honest portrayals of best friends I've seen in books so far.
April 1, 2019
I LOVED THIS! I cannot wait to read the entire series! HIGHLY RECOMMEND! Peace & Love!
April 26, 2020
I enjoyed this book, and the hard choices the characters make. However, I feel the surprises were not as interesting as in the last one. On to book 3.
January 1, 2016
http://www.platypire.com/j-hooligan/t...
I enjoyed the first book, so I preordered this one and I was not disappointed.
Toward the beginning there's a nod at the scientists first thoughts of a platypus, but they gave it wings (like a platypire), and I think it was absolutely perfect. I cackled when I read it.
Having already become acquainted with this world with the last book, it made it much easier to get into this story again. It starts out shortly after the end of the last one, but expands the world to introduce the reader into more of the magic going on around them.
Many a time I became frustrated with Luthor, because he is keeping too many secrets. I mean, I understand why he's doing it... but he's making things more difficult on everyone because of it.
Then there's Simon. A romance aspect is introduced with him in this one, and I think it suits him. When it comes to this character, I honestly cannot say if I like him or not. He's not the typical "good guy" main character. There's a lot of what he does that I don't expect, and he doesn't always react in a positive way. This does make him feel more... I guess the word is real.
Most importantly, because I am biased, Maddie is back and is just as important as she was in the last story. I like that she's become an important member of the team.
I cannot wait to continue the story, I also preordered the third book.
I enjoyed the first book, so I preordered this one and I was not disappointed.
Toward the beginning there's a nod at the scientists first thoughts of a platypus, but they gave it wings (like a platypire), and I think it was absolutely perfect. I cackled when I read it.
Having already become acquainted with this world with the last book, it made it much easier to get into this story again. It starts out shortly after the end of the last one, but expands the world to introduce the reader into more of the magic going on around them.
Many a time I became frustrated with Luthor, because he is keeping too many secrets. I mean, I understand why he's doing it... but he's making things more difficult on everyone because of it.
Then there's Simon. A romance aspect is introduced with him in this one, and I think it suits him. When it comes to this character, I honestly cannot say if I like him or not. He's not the typical "good guy" main character. There's a lot of what he does that I don't expect, and he doesn't always react in a positive way. This does make him feel more... I guess the word is real.
Most importantly, because I am biased, Maddie is back and is just as important as she was in the last story. I like that she's become an important member of the team.
I cannot wait to continue the story, I also preordered the third book.
November 25, 2015
I received a free copy in exchange for an honest review.
Book two picks up shortly after The Wolves of the Northern Rift with Simon, Luthor, and Matilda at the capitol. Simon has yet to reveal Matilda's true nature to his superiors and knows he will face opposition to his continuing choices. They would like to recover from their latest mission but are soon sent to investigate rumors of vampire.
I loved the first book, but this one was a bit harder to get in to. I love that Simon is a steampunk, Sherlock investigative type with Luthor by his side to assist. As readers, we know the demons are not happy with Simon and are out to cause him more problems. Simon seems to have the same issues as he previously did while investigating the werewolves- complete doubt and disdain for his companions' opinions. I would like to see Simon grow more in the next book and use his experiences to catapult his investigations, not hinder.
Book two picks up shortly after The Wolves of the Northern Rift with Simon, Luthor, and Matilda at the capitol. Simon has yet to reveal Matilda's true nature to his superiors and knows he will face opposition to his continuing choices. They would like to recover from their latest mission but are soon sent to investigate rumors of vampire.
I loved the first book, but this one was a bit harder to get in to. I love that Simon is a steampunk, Sherlock investigative type with Luthor by his side to assist. As readers, we know the demons are not happy with Simon and are out to cause him more problems. Simon seems to have the same issues as he previously did while investigating the werewolves- complete doubt and disdain for his companions' opinions. I would like to see Simon grow more in the next book and use his experiences to catapult his investigations, not hinder.
December 11, 2015
4.5
I won this book in a goodreads giveaway.
When I started this book I was in a reading slump. I hoped that this would bring me out of my slump and it has! After having recently read Dracula by Bram Stoker this book is exactly what i wanted and needed. The writing in this book in much improved from the first book ans well as the characters get more complex. Their relationships and dialog are entertaining and well as being more natural. This story plot felt at a faster pace then that last book and well as the supernatural monsters in this one feed the vampire craving i was having. I loved this book and definitely look forward to getting the next book in this series.
PS. Thank you for signing my book. Yours is my first and only book signed by an author.
I won this book in a goodreads giveaway.
When I started this book I was in a reading slump. I hoped that this would bring me out of my slump and it has! After having recently read Dracula by Bram Stoker this book is exactly what i wanted and needed. The writing in this book in much improved from the first book ans well as the characters get more complex. Their relationships and dialog are entertaining and well as being more natural. This story plot felt at a faster pace then that last book and well as the supernatural monsters in this one feed the vampire craving i was having. I loved this book and definitely look forward to getting the next book in this series.
PS. Thank you for signing my book. Yours is my first and only book signed by an author.
September 12, 2016
This is an excellent story. Great characters and plot. Full of action and excitement, plus some surprises.
Displaying 1 - 12 of 12 reviews