ABANDONED. Sci fi. Two (brothers) build a catapult to get across the river. Land in the river, then float under a bridge. Become moguls build an empire. Something about creating a rainbow machine?

[Chordmatic]

I was given the book in 2009. I gather the book was at least a few (if not ten) years old by then. I recall a prolific sci-fi writer.

Time was industrial revolution era. Very steam punk feel to the settings. Set inNew York City (ish). Two (brothers) get stuck on the side of the river. They build a catapult to get over. It only launches then half way. They land on the river and float down stream, passing under a bridge. They swing to shore and get back to civilization.

One/both of them build an empire. A sister/relative has a cabin(mansion) in the woods with an ice skating rink. Lots of horses and buggies.

The end goal has something to do with a rainbow(s)? Like they were building a machine (in secret) to achieve this?

Thanks for your help!

[Rainbowheart]

Was the book for kids, teens, or adults?

[Chordmatic]

I think it was written for an adult audience.

[Kris]

Chordmatic, please post a new comment if you're still looking for this book - or if you found it.

Chordmatic (OP) was last active on the site in March 2020. Moving to Abandoned folder.