Series: Badlands #1
Genre: Steampunk
Published by: Carina Press on February 28, 2011
Format: eARC
Pages: 101
Source: NetGalley
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After a brutal Civil War, America is a land divided. As commander of her nation's border guards, Ever is a warrior sworn to protect her country and her queen. When an airship attacks and kills the monarch, Ever must infiltrate enemy territory to bring home the heir to the throne, and the dirigible Dark Hawk is her fastest way to the Union.
Captain Spencer Pierce just wants to pay off the debt he owes on the Dark Hawk and make a life for himself trading across the border. When the queen's assassination puts the shipping routes at risk, he finds himself Ever's reluctant ally.
As they fly into danger, Ever and Spencer must battle not only the enemy but also their growing attraction. She refuses to place her heart before duty, and he has always put the needs of his ship and crew above his own desires. Once the princess is rescued, perhaps they can find love in the Badlands— if death doesn't find them first...
*I received a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
A thrilling and adventurous read!
Ever is a warrior whose duties are to protect the Queen and her country. When her territory is attacked and her queen is killed, Ever is left for dead while attempting to escape onto enemy territory. Rescued by Captain Pierce of the Dark Hawk, a shipping vessel, Ever sees an opportunity to get to the next in line for the throne and restore the monarchy. Men are only good for a quick fling in Ever’s eyes, but spending time with the charming Captain has her questioning her opinion of the opposite sex. Her job is to protect the throne at all costs and she is determined to sacrifice her own happiness to see her duties fulfilled, even if it kills her.
This books kicks off with action and immerses the reader into a steampunk world of civil war and robotic creatures. Ever is a stand up heroine. She’s smart, independent and feisty. In a world where most women are prim and proper, Ever is a kick ass warrior that can hold her own. Captain Spencer Pierce is a noble hero who is ever the gentleman and not your usual alpha male. He’s confident and isn’t threatened by a strong woman which makes him even more desirable. The romance between Ever and Spencer is played out well, slowly developing from a physical attraction to a more meaningful relationship. The sexual tension between the two main characters throughout the story is entertaining and genuine. I love how both characters put their feelings aside for the greater good, it shows just how selfless they are and makes their story that more romantic.
This is a not your run of the mill love story. Where most books in this genre take place in England, the author creates a whole new perspective by choosing America as her setting. Her characters are well developed and not the usual delicate heroine and alpha hero. Full of adventure, unexpected revelations and an original romance, Badlands is a great addition to the steampunk genre and will leave you wanting more!
I recently discovered this title while working with Carina Press (they have a load of titles being featured in My Favorite Things Event). And this book sounds really good! What got my attention was the cover and the title. I grew up kind of near the Badlands in SD. I know there are Badlands in other states, so I don’t know where they are, but it sounds fantastic. I’m glad it ended up being really good!