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Mission: Improper

(London Steampunk: The Blue Blood Conspiracy #1)

Bec McMaster (Goodreads Author)

3.98 · Rating details · 1,486 ratings · 185 reviews

Three years ago, London society changed forever, with a revolution placing the widowed Queen firmly on the throne her blue blood husband tried to take from her. Humans, verwulfen and mechs are no longer considered the lesser classes, but not everybody is happy with the new order…

Entire families have gone missing in the East End. When Caleb Byrnes receives an invitation to ...more

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ebook, 380 pages

Published August 16th 2016 by Lochaber Press (first published August 11th 2016)

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Start your review of Mission: Improper (London Steampunk: The Blue Blood Conspiracy, #1)

Sep 03, 2015 ☆★Tinja★✮ A Court of Pizza and Laziness rated it it was amazing

Recommends it for: PNR lovers

Shelves: adults, mind-blowing-shit, lol-hilarious, vampires, shifters-werewolves, hot-sex-scenes, historical-fiction, action, romance, paranormal

Ahhhh simply amazing ♡ Why are aren't more people reading her books??? Like seriously, if you're a fan of Paranormal Romance, look no farther. And what's better than Historical + Paranormal combined? Very few things indeed. I seriously looove this author. She is one of my absolute favorites. If you haven't read her London Steampunk series yet, then what are you waiting for!!? She has some seriously sexy vampires..

If you are interested you can start with this one, but I recommend you start with t ...more

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Oct 24, 2018 Roobie rated it liked it · review of another edition

Shelves: part-of-series, historical-fiction-or-steampunk, romance, paranormal, standalone-in-series, 2018-challenge, first-in-series

⭐️3.5 stars⭐️

I never used to dream. Not when I was trapped in the cage, because if you dared to dream, then you would dare to hope.
And nothing hurts more than having that crushed and thrown in your face.

...more

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Nov 02, 2016 Mei rated it it was amazing

Shelves: paranormal

I'm thilled that Ms. McMaster wrote this spin-off! I've been missing the world of the London Steampunk series!!!

I loved both the heroine and the hero. Both Caleb and Ingrid are great and I loved them!
I usually don't like very much when the hero is all I'm too bad for her, but I loved it here! Maybe because I enjoyed how Caleb's reticence just melted when it come in contact with Ingrid's passion! Or maybe because Ingrid was such a strong heroine that Caleb didn't stand a chance! LOL

I love the in ...more

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Apr 19, 2019 Saint Monique rated it it was amazing · review of another edition

Shelves: kindle, omg-i-am-in-love-with-this-book, book-boyfriends-my-harem, vampires-shifters-angels-oh-my

5 'steamy' stars

I don't think I could ever forget you. You're one hell of a woman. And I don't know where this road will take us, or whether I can be what you want, but I do know that I want to explore that option."

description

I have no words. This world that Bec McMaster created is simply marvelous. I loved the original series, I adored it, hell, I wanted to live in it! And after reading this book, I can say that the spin-off is on a good way to be equally amazing.

The spin-off takes place three ...more

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Jun 27, 2017 Jo rated it really liked it · review of another edition

Recommends it for: All London Steampunk fans

Shelves: gr2017, 4-stars

I want to know what it feels like to explore that... that spark between us. I want to exorcise you from my mind, from my thoughts. That's all. I want to burn like the supernova that flames through my veins when you're nearby, and drown myself in these feelings until it's done. Until you're... extinguished from my soul."

It’s been three years since the prince consort was overthrown by the queen and London society changed completely. Humans, mechs and verwulfen aren’t seen as less anymore, th

I want to know what it feels like to explore that... that spark between us. I want to exorcise you from my mind, from my thoughts. That's all. I want to burn like the supernova that flames through my veins when you're nearby, and drown myself in these feelings until it's done. Until you're... extinguished from my soul."

It’s been three years since the prince consort was overthrown by the queen and London society changed completely. Humans, mechs and verwulfen aren’t seen as less anymore, their rights restored and Echelon society are no longer the top class. But not everyone is satisfied with these changes and a dangerous evil is stalking the streets. Families has gone missing, people has been murdered and invites has been sent to certain people in hope of forming a group of elite agents to protect the people, the queen and put a stop to whatever evil plot has been put in motion.

Caleb Byrnes is a blue blood, an agent of the crown and hunting criminals is what he does best. He prefers to work alone, but when he receives his invitation to join the Company of Rogues and investigate the mysterious disappearances, he can’t refuse. Even if accepting means partnering with the very woman who drove him crazy a year ago and who left him tied to a bed. Ingrid Miller gets under his skin like no other person ever has, makes him lose his iron control and Caleb has a score to settle with her and hopefully he’ll finally be able to get her out of his system and move on.

Ingrid is a verwulfen, fiery and passionate and she loves challenging Caleb. She knows that keeping her distance from him is the only way to protect herself, but being partnered with him again is proving distance impossible. Soon they are discovering an evil conspiracy, monsters that they thought couldn’t exist, and they’ll have to put their trust in each other if they want to survive.

Perhaps it was that fact that made him so irresistible to her: she wanted to ruffle him, wanted to see him undone, that facade washed away and replaced by the beating heart within him.

I loved Ingrid, how feisty and sassy she was, but also how vulnerable she was because of her past and the way verwulfens were treated before. I loved the sparring between her and Caleb and how she kept him on this toes and made him lose that control he kept so well around others.

He was going to throttle her. Slowly. Or maybe kiss her. He hadn't quite decided.

Byrnes was great, so cool, calm and a bit of a loner, and so different around Ingrid. I loved how he teased her, how he pursued her, trying to get her into bed, hoping it would rid him of his need for her.

"I love you, Ingrid. They're the only words that I know, and they're not empty." Pressing her hand to his chest, he gave a faint smile. "They fill me up, in here. I never knew there was so much emptiness inside until I met you, but you fill me up. You make every day a revelation."

The romance was great, filled with lots of sexual tension and playful banter. I did feel like in the beginning Ingrid’s feelings for Byrnes were a lot deeper than his for her, especially after what happened between them a year ago and I didn’t like that, but as the story progressed and Byrnes got more protective of Ingrid, realising that what he felt for her wasn’t something that was every going to go away and finally pursuing her with the intent to win her forever, and I really started loving their romance.

I love this world Bec McMaster created, with its steampunk elements set in a historical setting and I’m so glad that the London Steampunk plot continues with this series. We got to meet an entire new crew of members, but also old characters from the previous series, which I was very happy about. I’m especially intrigued by Gemma Townsend and the mysterious Obsidian. And of course blue blood Ava with her mechanical heart and sexy mech Kincaid, who seems to carry much hatred for blue bloods. The plot was captivating and action-packed with the Company of Rogues trying to find out why and how people are going missing and who is behind it.

I loved the London Steampunk series and I’m very glad to see it continue its arc with this new series. Highly recommended to all romance fans who loves steampunk and paranormal elements in a historical setting for their romances.

...more

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Mar 09, 2016 Sharon rated it really liked it

Shelves: adult-fiction, 4-stars, and-the-plot-thickens, arc, cute-bantering, family, historical-fiction, friendship, utterly-romantic, mystery

**I received a free copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.**

“'Revenge is going to be very sweet,’ Byrnes whispered in her ear as he brushed past.
She followed him, feeling that little thrill tingling through her blood, unable to stop herself from whispering, ‘Just remember: two can play at that game.’”

Rating: 4

When I was reading this book and realized that this story was about a newly assembled team of detectives/spies:

– Especially since one of the team members is th ...more

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Aug 12, 2016 Marta Cox rated it it was amazing

Shelves: my-reviews

I'm so glad this series continued as although I liked how things ended in the last book in so many ways it brought things to a close. The problem for me was what could happen next? The Queen had finally taken back control but how would things progress? Plus there were characters who I still had questions about so it was with great delight ( OK perhaps some fan girl squealing !) that I sat down to read this story that transports the reader just three years down the line . Yes there have been huge ...more

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May 18, 2017 Bubu rated it liked it

Shelves: 3-stars, read-2017, pnr

2.5 stars

Hmpf! I'm wondering why I keep reading Bec McMaster's books and end up not really liking them, or rather liking them and not liking them. Does that even make sense?

Well, her writing is compelling and she can build up a good mystery and pursue it throughout the series. My main complaints remain though. The books (and this one is a spin-off of the London Steampunk series and many of the previous characters have still a significant role here) are too modern. And I'm not even speaking of tr 2.5 stars

Hmpf! I'm wondering why I keep reading Bec McMaster's books and end up not really liking them, or rather liking them and not liking them. Does that even make sense?

Well, her writing is compelling and she can build up a good mystery and pursue it throughout the series. My main complaints remain though. The books (and this one is a spin-off of the London Steampunk series and many of the previous characters have still a significant role here) are too modern. And I'm not even speaking of tracking devices put under the skin of a protagonist, or the Mission Impossible like action scenes. I had this on my mind:

description

It's the very modern tone of the characters. For all intents and purposes, they could be placed in a 21st century setting and I wouldn't really see much of a difference. They'd sound a tad bit more stuffy but that's about it, really.

The romance is lacking and there are two reasons for that. 1. The plot takes quite some space, and 2. the continuous push/pull of McMaster's characters is tiring. There's too much of guarding their own feelings, too much supposedly blasé behaviour. At least always for the first half of the books. When the characters come to the stage where they reveal their true emotions, I've already missed the point of connecting to them and their romance.

In a way, the London Steampunk series has a similar effect on me as JR Ward's Black Dagger Brotherhood series. I read it because I'm intrigued by the world that the author has built; I like seeing the other characters' reappearances; and I'm definitely hooked to the mystery. But the romance falls flat for me. It's not that I don't like the characters individually. It's just that their romance is boring and leaves me with a description

feeling.

When I feel that the romantic interludes stand in the way of the mystery plot, I know I'm not reading it for the romance anymore.

Anyway, I'm rounding this up because of the mystery. Man, I really want to know who is behind the conspiracy. Oh, and what about Malloryn, Gemma and who the hell is Obsidian??? Might be just me but I have a feeling we may have a proper anti-hero here, and yes, yes, yes, wouldn't that be great. ...more

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Jan 04, 2016 Sunny rated it really liked it

Shelves: a-1-favorite-series, a-1-favorites-pnr-uf-fantasy, a-pnr-uf-fantasy

ARC REVIEW:

If you are a fan of Bec McMaster’s London Steampunk series, hang on to your Kindles because you will love this ride. We first meet Caleb Byrnes in the earlier series. We know he’s controlled, disciplined, and loves to solve puzzles. His previous encounter with verwulfen, Ingrid Miller, left him tied up in knots, and he is eager for payback. They are partnered together to investigate the strange disappearance of groups of people, blue bloods, humans, and others. Given the fragile natur ...more

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Oct 24, 2016 Monique V rated it really liked it

Shelves: adult, urban-fantasy-and-paranormal

The only disappointing thing about this book is the sex scene. I wanted more!!! also the ending left me wanting some answers and I better get them!

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Oct 21, 2016 Celestine rated it really liked it · review of another edition

Shelves: tortured-hero-heroine, sci-fi-romance, lendable

I was so lost in the characters of Bec McMaster's spin-off steampunk series that I want to read more. You can take that statement two ways.

First, all the characters are interesting and full of personality, quirks, physical punch and intriguing backstories. I just want to sit on the fringes and watch the Company of Rogues work and play. They are that absorbing.

Second, I was really, truly lost. Mission: Improper is billed as the first book in The Blue Blood Conspiracy series. Having read the fir I was so lost in the characters of Bec McMaster's spin-off steampunk series that I want to read more. You can take that statement two ways.

First, all the characters are interesting and full of personality, quirks, physical punch and intriguing backstories. I just want to sit on the fringes and watch the Company of Rogues work and play. They are that absorbing.

Second, I was really, truly lost. Mission: Improper is billed as the first book in The Blue Blood Conspiracy series. Having read the first book and one novella of McMaster's London Steampunk series, I was introduced to her imaginative, expansive and thrilling universe. It wasn't enough. Many, many characters who play fairly integral roles in this spin-off series are main characters in the latter books of the London Steampunk series. I felt a little like I was sitting in a revisionist history class; I just didn't have the full story, and it hampered my understanding.

Ingrid Miller and Caleb Byrnes, who are both skilled at tracking and fighting, are partnered together in this new steampunk police force that tackles nefarious creatures and villains. The backstory to these two was immediately titillating, and I knew I was in for a fun ride. Audacious is the word I would use to describe verwulfen Ingrid. Payback is the motivation for blue blood Byrnes. Along the way, the out of control attraction these two feel develops into something more. Quintessentially Victorian repartee, filled with clever little asides, draws you even more to these two tantalizing characters. As the peril grows ever more serious, so does their regard for one another.

"He was going to throttle her. Slowly. Or maybe kiss her. He hadn't quite decided."

And then there is Ingrid: "Provoking you does get me all hot and bothered."

This story is all about two extremely competitive and stubborn people falling in love. Toss in vampire, aristocracy, atmospheric tunnels, thrilling chase scenes, a mystery inside of a mystery, and gadgets that could have been invented by MI6's Q - if he had been born in the 19th century -and you have quite the tale. Never boring. Always fun. Plus McMaster has penned some of the best "kiss me before I head into danger" vignettes ever breathlessly uttered.

That is why I am totally lost in these characters. I can't wait to go back and read all about the stories teased from the rest of the London Steampunk series and discover what is coming next for Ava and Kincaid as they continue to unravel the Blue Blood Conspiracy. ...more

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Aug 12, 2016 Bonnie-Anne Carmichael (Love Triangles Are Fucking Stupid.) rated it really liked it

Shelves: arc

I received a free copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.

Bec McMaster is hands down my favourite PNR author. I LOVE every single one of her books. Which considering I'm a picky bitch is pretty amazing! That being said I was very wary about this book. See, I wanted Byrnes with Ava and I was hella pissed when I found out he wasn't being paired with her. I went through all the stages of grief, except acceptance. Which I was pretty sure I would never get to. I didn't see ...more

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Oct 03, 2016 Jenny Q rated it really liked it

Shelves: ebook, para-romance-faves

As a huge fan of Bec McMaster's London Steampunk series, I was sorry to see it come to an end, especially since I felt a certain pair of characters had not yet had their story told (I'm looking at you, Charlie and Lark), and the story world was so rich with opportunities for more novels. My prayers were answered when Mission: Improper was announced, the first book in a spin-off series set in the same world with new leading characters and featuring appearances from some of our favorite characters As a huge fan of Bec McMaster's London Steampunk series, I was sorry to see it come to an end, especially since I felt a certain pair of characters had not yet had their story told (I'm looking at you, Charlie and Lark), and the story world was so rich with opportunities for more novels. My prayers were answered when Mission: Improper was announced, the first book in a spin-off series set in the same world with new leading characters and featuring appearances from some of our favorite characters from the previous series!

Mission: Improper begins with Nighthawk Caleb Byrnes--a member of the supernatural police force-- receiving a summons to a mysterious meeting. He arrives to find that himself, three other blue bloods (including Charlie Todd, yay!), a mech, and the only woman to truly ever get under his skin, Ingrid Miller, a verwulfen, have been carefully selected by the Duke of Malloryn to investigate a series of murders and disappearances that seem to be designed to incite a riot. It's been three years since the revolution that took down the blue blood elite and placed all supernaturals on equal footing, but a shadowy group has emerged that is bent on bringing down the new order and returning to the old ways. If that wasn't already enough, there are vampires on the loose, controlled by a new and deadly creature the likes of which none of them have encountered before. Begrudgingly partnered together, Caleb and Ingrid will have to use all of their skills to unearth the players in this new game, uncovering a conspiracy far more ambitious and deep-rooted than first suspected, while fighting an intense attraction to each other as they race the clock to stop a group of madmen from destroying the world as they know it.

I so loved being back in this story world! And I love the characters. As usual, McMaster has created a deep and dimensional hero and heroine; both are brave, smart, and tough, yet at times vulnerable, and both have overcome heartbreaking childhood trauma, building up protective walls while still allowing their hearts to be generous and hopeful. Watching them work together on this case was a joy. My only real complaint here is that the romance takes a little bit of a backseat in this story, and that's mainly because a lot of things have to be set up in this first book to form the foundation of the entire series. which, like its predecessor, will feature a running plot throughout all of the books. And while I found it refreshing that Caleb and Ingrid actually talked to each other about what they were thinking and feeling rather than keep it to themselves, resulting in the angst and misunderstandings so common in romances these days, I got to a point where I just wanted them to shut up and do it already! And after they finally did, I wanted more of them together before the story raced along to its conclusion. And the epilogue, which takes place in the future and was satisfying of itself, made me wish I'd gotten to see what happened between the end of the story and that point. But since these two should feature in future books, I'm hoping I will get a chance to.

I'm sure Mission: Improper is intended to serve as a stand-alone for those who haven't read the previous series, and some backstory is included, but you just won't be able to grasp the full meaning of who the different species are, how they relate to each other, and what's at stake if you haven't read the other books. (And they're so good that you really should go and read them first!) Mission: Improper is an action-packed start to a new series in a beloved story world, introducing some new characters on both sides of the conspiracy that I am looking forward to getting to know better in future books. I am anxiously awaiting book two, The Mech Who Loved Me. ...more

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Aug 23, 2016 Ami rated it it was amazing · review of another edition

Shelves: historical-steampunk, 5-stars_rating, urban-fantasy-paranormal-futuristic

This is going to be a lousy opinion, simply because I had no words except to say how much I LOVED this book.

Plotline under spoiler tag so I can remember what happened this time around...

(view spoiler) This is going to be a lousy opinion, simply because I had no words except to say how much I LOVED this book.

Plotline under spoiler tag so I can remember what happened this time around...

(view spoiler)

She did it again. One of my favorite authors just gave me another 5* read this year. I felt hangover from how good this book was. I LOVED the banters between Byrnes and Ingrid. The sparks, the chemistry, THE SENSUAL TENSION!! I felt like I was hanging on the edge of my seat and consumed the words that they exchanged!! It was smart, witty, sexy, and judging by the status updates that I had, this book just owned me.

The only thing that I felt unsure about was the epilogue.

(view spoiler)

However, in a grand scheme of things, it was just tiny miniscule niggle. It didn't mean a lot because I loved this book too much to let it bother me. ...more

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Aug 09, 2017 Simply Sam ツ rated it really liked it

Shelves: lords-and-ladies, pnr-uf, first-in-series, kissing-books

***3.5 Stars***

This book was the perfect palate cleanser!

There's mystery, there's mayhem, there's blood, and (of course) there's a romance featuring a blue-blood (think vampire-lite) and a verwulfen (think werewolf-lite). Apparently these two met a year before and have had it in for each other ever since.

I love the whole "enemies to lovers" trope, which is where this kind of stems from, but it never quite got the whole "enemy" part down. We're told a bunch of times that the MC blue-blood Caleb ...more

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Jul 21, 2017 Annie (Under the Covers Book Blog) rated it really liked it

Shelves: 2017-favorites, author-bec-mcmaster, genre-paranormal-romance, read-in-2017, genre-steampunk, series-london-steampunk-the-blue

“Never snooze on Bec McMaster. She’s a must read!”
~ Under the Covers ...more

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Apr 01, 2016 Anna lost in stories *A* rated it it was amazing · review of another edition

Shelves: arc, paranormal, steampunk, books-i-own, 2016-favourites

added after my first re-read:

I stand by everything I said about this wonderful gem the first time I read it... honestly... I forgot how amazing this story is... what a wonderful job it does introducing us to the new mystery, making us fall in love with a whole group of characters... *sighs happily* for all the informations you can possibly need, just keep on reading to check out my full review :)

ARC received from the author in exchange for an honest review :)

I just finished reading this book... ...more

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Jul 28, 2017 Under the Covers Book Blog rated it really liked it

MISSION: IMPROPER is the first book in the London Steampunk spin off series by Bec McMaster. As a huge fan of the original series, I really don’t know why it took me so long to read this series. Set three years after the events in STEAM AND SILK, readers are once again submerged into the wonderful world that McMaster has created.

First off, I have to talk about the world because this is honestly one of my favorite combinations. It has everything from Paranormal Romance to Steampunk elements. If you know me, then you know that I really, really dislike Steampunk as a genre in general. It’s probably my least favorite genre to read for some reason. In order for me to enjoy it, it has to have a mix of something else like for example PNR or YA. These books by McMaster are honestly one of the only Steampunk books I enjoy so that’s saying something.

I’ve read in other people’s reviews that they felt that the romance was instalove in this book. I don’t think that’s the case. The hero, Caleb Brynes, and the heroine, Ingrid Miller, do have immediate chemistry but that’s because they also have a past. After some intense tension between the two, Ingrid literally tied Brynes to a bed and left him there. The memory has soured her image and now he’s looking for revenge. He now gets his chance when they are set to work together again.

Like I said, there’s sizzling tension but it’s not instalove. Especially since they go on to argue a lot more in the rest of the book. It’s a heated read and I really loved experiencing the tension between these characters. At first, I even thought that there might be something between Brynes and Ava but that idea was quickly pushed aside once Ingrid stepped into the picture. They were simply made for each other.

In addition to the epic worldbuilding and the fabulous romance, there’s also the amazing writing. I LOVE McMaster’s writing style. It’s descriptive enough that it gives you some details, but it doesn’t drone on to the point where it gets tedious. She definitely has a way with words and found that I really enjoyed this book from start to finish.

If you’ve never read McMaster before, this series reminds me of Cassandra Clare’s The Mostal Instruments series (but an adult version) and a little bit of Sherlock Holmes. So if you’re a fan of any of those two, you’ll definitely love this series. You don’t need to read the London Steampunk series to enjoy this one, but you will get references to past characters throughout.

I’ve learned my lesson —Never snooze on Bec McMaster. She’s a must read!

Reviewed by Ann❤ ♡ Don't want to miss any of our posts? Subscribe to our blog by email! ♡ ❤ ...more

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Oct 31, 2018 Sarah marked it as to-read · review of another edition

Shelves: books-i-own-kindle

31st Oct 2018: this ebook is currently free on all platforms. For one week only though so grab it while you can!

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Mar 07, 2018 alicat ♡➹♡ rated it really liked it

Shelves: favorite_heroines, awesome_dudes, cool_chicks, paranormal_romance, overdrive

I’ve always loved Byrnes and Ingrid put them together and it is fun banter and sizzling chemistry. Byrnes is that lone wolf type detective who pisses off most of his colleagues, Ingrid is a passionate former resistance member turned freelance detective.

The new series developments are pretty intense and as usual I wasn’t sure how things could resolve themselves.

I loved seeing some of the previous characters including some sweet domestic scenes with the Current & former nighthawk crew

Loved it!

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Oct 03, 2017 Aly rated it really liked it

I have not read many Steampunk books. I really liked Caleb and Ingrid. The book was very interesting with vampires and blue bloods and all. I think the book was heavy on the romance side as well but overall I enjoyed the book. I would not recommend anyone one under 18 reading due to some sexual content but I did not mind it because there was not very much in this book. I may have to read book two to see what happens next!

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Jul 04, 2018 Sophia rated it really liked it

Shelves: steampunk-steampunk-pnr

London Steampunk will remain one of my favorite series and I was feeling somewhat blue that it was over. Lo and behold, we have a new season with an action-packed and suspenseful new series arc and focusing on several new characters in the much beloved world. Please don't let the fact that this one set on the shelf a while fool you. I have been more than eager to get back into this world blending paranormal, steampunk, suspense, and romance.

Mission: Improper began with an assembling of a crack t London Steampunk will remain one of my favorite series and I was feeling somewhat blue that it was over. Lo and behold, we have a new season with an action-packed and suspenseful new series arc and focusing on several new characters in the much beloved world. Please don't let the fact that this one set on the shelf a while fool you. I have been more than eager to get back into this world blending paranormal, steampunk, suspense, and romance.

Mission: Improper began with an assembling of a crack team and their mission is to delve into mysterious mass disappearances and the apparent effort by someone to undercut the new government administration. It became obvious when the colorful group of characters on this team were revealed that there would be several sizzling stories to watch for.

This one hones in on ice cold Nighthawks' Investigator Caleb Byrnes, a rogue blue blood (think vampire) with a bitter past and a determination to keep himself strictly non-committed save to his work. And, the other part of the pair is hot-blooded vervolfen (werewolf) contracted independent investigator, Ingrid Miller. This pair has an acrimonious past and there is definitely unfinished business between the pair. Between facing off against a cunning group who have more than one plot going and some deep intrigue to heightens the danger and facing off with each other, they are kept pretty busy.

Now, I definitely had a good time with all the elements that made up this story and loved it as a whole. But, oddly, it was a struggle through the early chapters to keep my attention. Even chores were more compelling. I won't say it was boring, but I had a distinct need for it to get going already. Some of it can be attributed to the typical first book in series set up and intro stuff which is fine, but a lot of it was actually the early nonsense going on between Ingrid and Byrnes. Totally attracted, totally in denial, afraid to trust, lusting, competitive, and so on which led to several chapters of sniping at each other, one upping each other and nothing really happening in the romance or much of anything else. About half of all that would have probably been just the right amount to set up their romance style and personalities.

Which, speaking of this pair, they sparkled when they were out in the field working. Things got intense and they got themselves and each other out of tight spots. There were a handful of good fight scenes which I love about this series and the women are just as capable as the men whether its brains and cunning or actual fighter like Ingrid. When they finally got past the childish sniping, this pair were fun to watch two courageous people cautiously pick their way through love's mine field. They didn't immediately fall into bed and the build up of sexual tension was good. I was really cheering for them knowing they both had terrible childhoods and didn't think they could ever have a real relationship for different reasons.

Alongside Byrnes and Ingrid, other storylines that will blossom in future books rose up and I definitely want all those stories. As is her forte, McMasters delivers a clever and worthy enemy who is still in the shadows and has a strong group of villainous allies who give the good guys and gals a run for their money. I look forward to seeing what comes next since this mission was just the opener.

So, this new season of stories is off to a grand start. I can't wait to pick up book two. Those who are wondering if Steampunk is their thing and come from a paranormal romance loving background would probably find the London Steampunk books as a great gateway to the genre. And, the reverse is true for steampunk lovers wanting to try their hand at paranormal romance. ...more

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Dec 30, 2015 Suzanne (Under the Covers Book blog) rated it really liked it

Shelves: shifters, va-va-voom-vampires, action-adventure, genre-steam-punk

3.5 Stars

I've been meaning to pick this book up all year, however, it took Annie recommending this on a Pick It For Me challenge for me to actually read it. I am glad I did, I already really like McMaster's London Steampunk series and I was glad that I got a chance to dive back into the richly detailed world that she had created.

In the Blue Blood Conspiracy series we see the world post-revolution. Humans, Mechs and some Blue Bloods have killed the Prince Consort who was controlling the human qu 3.5 Stars

I've been meaning to pick this book up all year, however, it took Annie recommending this on a Pick It For Me challenge for me to actually read it. I am glad I did, I already really like McMaster's London Steampunk series and I was glad that I got a chance to dive back into the richly detailed world that she had created.

In the Blue Blood Conspiracy series we see the world post-revolution. Humans, Mechs and some Blue Bloods have killed the Prince Consort who was controlling the human queen and now the equality amongst all races is coming into force. However, there are some who prefer the old regime, of the Blue Bloods ruling over everyone and taking whatever they desire. A crack team has been put together, featuring all the races; human, blue blood, verwulfen and mechs to stop this conspiracy from bringing down this week earned peace.

In the first book we Caleb Byrnes, a Nighthawk and Ingrid Miller a verwulfen must try and work together to find out who is causing a series of incidents that's bring unrest to the population, could they all be related? However, Byrnes and Ingrid have worked together before and it resulted in Byrnes being tied, naked, to his bed unable to free himself and Ingrid disappearing. But, they must learn to work together if they are going to succeed in preventing a massive catastrophe.

I don't think this series can be read as a standalone. There is too much history involved , too many characters from the London Steampunk series, as well as an assumption that you understand the world in which this is set in. I imagine if you start reading without a little knowledge about what happened previously to lead to the rebellion in a series that very wonderfully describes this new world then it could be confusing. But, the London Steampunk series is well worth reading so please go and pick it up if you haven't already!

But, assuming you have read the main series, this book was great! What I liked most about it was the mystery itself and trying to decipher what is going on. What seems on the surface to be some malcontents within the high ranking Blue Bloods develops into something much more sinister and complicated. I can't wait to read on and find out who is behind this deadly plot and why. As for the romance, for me, this wasn't as strong as the mystery. It took me a while to warm up to Byrnes and found some of the other characters more interesting. I did really like the fiery Ingrid though, she was fierce and intelligent, which melted Byrnes' cool exterior.

A great start to this spin-off series and I can't wait to read more. ...more

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Nov 02, 2018 Somia rated it really liked it

Shelves: steampunk, historical-romance

So started reading this in my work breaks yesterday and ended up eagerly reading it in any spare time I had, finishing early today.

This book was a good suprise, the characters and story drew me in from the onset, loved the character of Ingrid and her initial interactions with Caleb, if you want a strong heroine Ingrid is the one for you. The chemistry and banter between the two was fun to read, and one of my favourite parts of the book (and what pushed this to 4 stars).

My focus wavered slightly ...more

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Aug 02, 2017 Caz rated it really liked it

Review to follow (at some point).

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Aug 04, 2019 eyes.2c rated it really liked it

Shelves: library, steampunk

It's been sometime since I've read some Bec McMaster. Am not disappointed. Am looking forward to finishing this series. ...more

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Oct 08, 2016 Jen (That's What I'm Talking About) rated it really liked it

Shelves: paranormal-romance, steampunk, london-steampunk-series

In the three years since the rebellion, the queen has instituted reforms that give more power to the humans, Mechs, and non-blue bloods, while diminishing the control of the Echelon. This isn’t sitting well with some, and there have been a series of unsolvable crimes aiming to lessen the queen’s effectiveness as ruler. The Duke of Malloryn has taken it upon himself to solve the mystery and put an end to the terror. He’s assembled a team of elite to find out what group has been causing riots and In the three years since the rebellion, the queen has instituted reforms that give more power to the humans, Mechs, and non-blue bloods, while diminishing the control of the Echelon. This isn’t sitting well with some, and there have been a series of unsolvable crimes aiming to lessen the queen’s effectiveness as ruler. The Duke of Malloryn has taken it upon himself to solve the mystery and put an end to the terror. He’s assembled a team of elite to find out what group has been causing riots and problems. Caleb Brynes, a highly respected blue blood Nighthawk, and Ingrid Miller, a verwulfen spy have both accepted the challenge of being part of Malloryn’s team.

Mission: Improper is the first book in the new London Steampunk spin-off, taking place three years into the future after the final book in the original series. I love that the author has found a way to continue this exciting series - keeping the same formula of action-packed mystery coupled with sexually-charged romance. The mix of paranormal, alternate history, historic setting, and steampunk mech is unique and engrossing. Mission: Improper expands the established mythology, but not so greatly as to become eye-rolling. The author has added enough new, mixed with a lot of the old, to create a whole new set of concerns for our heroes.

Caleb and Ingrid make for a perfect pair. I admire that the author didn’t toss unnecessary drama in their way, but let the story and characters dictate the speed and direction of the romance. They don’t have an easy path, and I like that both are uncertain about giving of themselves fully (emotionally, not physically). Each has a jaded history that puts wariness into their decision making, yet they also want to make sure not to hurt the other. It’s honest and raw emotion like this, that won me over:

“I am going to pursue you, Ingrid Miller, with the intention of never letting you go. So fair warning…”
“It's no longer about winning your body, Ingrid. When I finish these challenges, I intend to win your heart.”

Ms. McMaster creates some of the best romances out there: always steamy and sexy while simultaneously emotionally gripping. However, it’s not just the love story that keeps me coming back again and again. Every story centers on some sort of mystery and huge investigation. I become completely captivated as the characters try to figure out the puzzle. This time is no different. Mission: Improper follows Malloryn’s group as they uncover a huge conspiracy, and I believe they have only skimmed the surface in this first book.

Mission: Improper is an excellent, fascinating start to Ms. McMaster’s new London Steampunk: The Blue Blood Conspiracy series. I was completely captivated by the mysterious new baddies and their abilities. I like that there was subterfuge within subterfuge and layer upon layer, and we’ve only just begun to peel back that first layer. I cannot wait to discover more.

Rating: B+ Liked It A Lot
Originally posted at That's what I'm Talking About
Book source: Purchased ...more

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Feb 18, 2018 Jewlsbookblog rated it it was amazing · review of another edition

Shelves: 2018, steampunk

There’s so much I enjoyed about this book! For one, the cover is eye catching and considering I don’t usually pay attention, that’s saying something. And as weird as it sounds, I had The League of Extraordinary Gentleman playing in the background of my mind when I read the opening chapters...

Two, I love the characters. Even the villains had brains. Pick one-male or female, good or bad-they are all written as intelligent, passionate, humorous, sarcastic, sensual beings with a variety of colorful ...more

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May 11, 2019 Ursula rated it liked it

Shelves: independent-woman, love-the-banter, alpha-hero, steam-punk, magic-and-mayhem, para-normal-romance, i-hate-vampires

A very solid 3.5 stars.
I do love most of the books in this London steam punk series, including the ones from the first series. BM has a great way with words and can do some terrific world-building (although I might prefer Meljean Brook when it comes to this genre- there is a tenderness in her relationships that is sometimes missing in BM's aggressively sexy prose).

I have never been a fan of the so-called vampire romance (oxymoron, if you ask me. Aren't they DEAD people?), so it has to be a good ...more

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Oct 08, 2016 Aoi rated it it was ok

Shelves: hf-england, paranormal-fantasy, steampunk

2.5 Stars

I'm so glad Bec McMaster decided to write a spin off for her London Steampunk series, replete with more adventures! I'm not a fan of her latest offering though - the pace was too slow to hold my attention, and the romance was laden with the commitment - phobe trope, which doesn't appeal to me one bit..

...more

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About Bec McMaster

Bec McMaster

2,676 followers

Kidnapped by a dread pirate when she was a child, USA Today Bestselling Author Bec McMaster was raised on myth and legend, and offered her younger siblings to the goblin king many a time. Unfortunately, he did not accept.

Now she writes epic fantasy romance with a dark and sexy twist, which is almost as much fun. She has a secret weakness for villainous heroes, wicked fae princes and dangerous vamp ...more