Book Review: Photographs & Phantoms by Cindy Spencer Pape

Title:  Photographs & Phantoms          
Author:  Cindy Spencer Paper          
Reading level: Adult
Genre:  Steampunk/Paranormal
Size: E-Book, 186 pages            
Release Date:  April 2011
Publisher: Carina Press
Stand Alone or Series:   Gaslight Chronicles, Book 1.5
Source: Free Nook book

First Line:  "Kendall, Marquess Lake, stood on the observation deck of the dirigible's gondola as it flew west toward Brighton."

Summary (from GoodReads):

Brighton, 1855

As a member of the Order of the Round Table, Kendall Lake is overqualified to be investigating strange phenomena at a seaside photography studio. But since the photographer is related to the Order's most powerful sorcerer, Kendall reluctantly boards a dirigible to Brighton.

Amy Deland is haunted by a shadow that appears in some of her recent portraits. In each case, the subject died within days of the sitting. Does she have her grandmother's gift of foresight, or has she somehow caused the deaths?

As Kendall and Amy search for answers, their investigation draws them together in a most improper way—but it seems the evil presence in the studio is determined to keep them apart…

My Thoughts:

This short book (really more a novella) had a little something for everyone.  Steampunk, Magic, Romance, Mystery...you name it...this little gem had it.  The premise was interesting and kept me reading to see what would happen next.  The world was fascinating...Victorian England but with a bit of a "mechanical" twist.  And I'd almost forgotten how much I can enjoy a little (steamy) romance thrown into the mix.


All in all a short sweet fun and entertaining read...and for me a good mini introduction to the world of Steampunk.  Just enough to wet your whistle for the rest of the series... (I'm guessing it's meant to be a teaser but stands alone well if you just want a quick read.)

My Rating:

This book was entertaining