The Brass Queen by Elizabeth Chatsworth Pages: 448
Published by CamCat Books on January 12, 2021
Genres: adult, Steampunk, Gaslamp, Historical Fiction
Source: Paperback ARC from Publisher
In 1897, a fiery British aristocrat and an inept US spy search for a stolen invisibility serum that could spark a global war.
Miss Constance Haltwhistle is the last in a line of blue-blooded rogue inventors. Selling exotic firearms under her alias, the ‘Brass Queen,’ has kept her baronial estate’s coffers full. But when US spy, Trusdale, saves her from assassins, she’s pulled into a search for a scientist with an invisibility serum.
As royal foes create an invisible army to start a global war, Constance and Trusdale must learn to trust each other. If they don’t, the world they know will literally disappear before their eyes.
The Brass Queen is an adult gaslamp/steampunk alternative history by Elizabeth Chatsworth. The Brass Queen was a ton of fun! I loved this adventure, mixed with some mystery and romance so so much. I am already antsy to get my hands on another one of author Elizabeth Chatsworth’s books, because I loved her characters, humor and writing so much. If you are a fan of witty dialogue and spirited heroines who are not afraid to take charge, you will love The Brass Queen. This novel is an underrated gem of a book!
In The Brass Queen, we meet our main character, Ms. Constance Haltwhistle. Constance’s estate is in danger, so she begrudgingly starts looking for a husband. At her coming out ball, she finds Mr. Trusdale, who unbeknownst to her is an American spy. I loved just how much was packed into this one story. There are secrets, time travel, mad scientists galore, steampunk inventions, invisibility serums, global wars and goodness, arms dealers, spies…oh my! I loved how at first glance this book seems like it would be absolutely all over the place, but I have to say Elizabeth Chatsworth really made it all work. I was never confused or bored while reading The Brass Queen. Quite to the contrary- this book was a fun interdimensional hoot of a ride from start to finish. I absolutely loved it.
All of the characters were fantastic, but I have to say that Constance was my favorite. I loved how boisterous and spunky she is. The banter and witty dialogue between her and Mr. Trusdale were wonderful. The Brass Queen is a book unlike any other that I have read. I don’t even really know how to accurately describe or classify it. It is a fun wild ride packed full of an interesting world, romance, humor and adventure. A wonderful read for adult readers and upper young adult readers. I really loved The Brass Queen. I’m not sure if there will be more books set in this world or not, but I am really hoping that there are many more!
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