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Elemental Steampunk Chronicles #2
The Silver Skull
Lady Olivia is not all she seems. Trained for marriage to an assigned political target, her skills lie in programming household steambots to serve tea, dress her hair... and sound the alarm while she picks locks and listens at doors. Humiliated by a failed assignment, she decides to redeem herself by tailing a suspected double agent.
Lord Rathsburn must flirt with treason. Struggles to cure a horrible disease have met with unexpected complications. The cells he engineered can make a man's bones unbreakable, but the side effects are fatal. He believed the research terminated... until his sister was kidnapped by a German count. Her ransom? A cure.
Piloting a stolen dirigible, he uncovers an unlikely stowaway, Lady Olivia. Arriving together at a crumbling castle, an impossible task is set before cure the count's guardsmen. Amidst their fake marriage, a very real growing attraction, dying guardsmen and escalating hostilities, Lady Olivia and Lord Rathsburn are thrust deep into the world of international medical espionage from which there may be no return.
Lord Rathsburn must flirt with treason. Struggles to cure a horrible disease have met with unexpected complications. The cells he engineered can make a man's bones unbreakable, but the side effects are fatal. He believed the research terminated... until his sister was kidnapped by a German count. Her ransom? A cure.
Piloting a stolen dirigible, he uncovers an unlikely stowaway, Lady Olivia. Arriving together at a crumbling castle, an impossible task is set before cure the count's guardsmen. Amidst their fake marriage, a very real growing attraction, dying guardsmen and escalating hostilities, Lady Olivia and Lord Rathsburn are thrust deep into the world of international medical espionage from which there may be no return.
484 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 11, 2017
About the author
Anne Renwick
19 books699 followersThough Anne Renwick holds a Ph.D. in biology and greatly enjoyed tormenting the overburdened undergraduates who were her students, fiction has always been her first love. Today, she writes steampunk romance, placing a new kind of biotech in the hands of mad scientists, proper young ladies and determined villains.
Anne brings an unusual perspective to steampunk. A number of years spent locked inside the bowels of a biological research facility left her permanently altered. In her steampunk world, the Victorian fascination with all things anatomical led to a number of alarming biotechnological advances. Ones that the enemies of Britain would dearly love to possess.
Anne brings an unusual perspective to steampunk. A number of years spent locked inside the bowels of a biological research facility left her permanently altered. In her steampunk world, the Victorian fascination with all things anatomical led to a number of alarming biotechnological advances. Ones that the enemies of Britain would dearly love to possess.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 95 reviews
March 16, 2024
The Silver Skull is an intense, plot-driven, and science-focused steampunk roller coaster ride of a book. It wasn’t as good of a fit for me as book 1 was sadly but I think it would work well for other readers. I do think you need to read book 1 first, not because of a plot connection, but rather the connections related to the main and side characters, who are all enmeshed in national and international security, as well as the science community.
Ian (H) was in a tremendously difficult position and he had to not only worry about his own safety and security, but also account for his sister’s and Olivia’s while working through a complicated medical problem under heavy duress. He’s also got the threat of being labeled a traitor hanging over his head. Olivia (h) was such a feather brain in book 1 and this book turns everything you thought you knew about her completely on its head. She’s bright, resourceful, and a wanna-be spy, though she’s also impulsive and in way over her head with the danger Ian’s embroiled in. These two have forced proximity, a fake relationship, and high pressure danger working to tear away their walls and creating bonding. Though the romance was choppy for me personally due to the plot.
Written in third person, dual POV. Small amounts of ow and om drama. The H starts the book proposing to someone (out of obligation to his title) and questions about that relationship due pop up later. The h is planning on marrying a target to spy on him and also faces some uncomfortable attention from one of the villains. Neither main has interest in anyone but the other from a romantic standpoint.
I really can’t mention the bulk of this story because it had so many twists. But I will say there are multiple villains, violence on page, espionage, and lots of medical terminology and experimentation. Ian and Olivia kept secrets from each other but it also made sense. Olivia had a lot of growth to go through and she does make some foolhardy errors, while also saving the day in other ways. Their chemistry was nice and the steam is slow burn but hot. I just needed more consistency from them and time with them outside of all the madness to see what their relationship would look like in the everyday sense.
The climax (like the rest of the book) has so many moving parts. I did wish that one of the villains had something more drastic happen to them because I hated them the most and I’m vengeful. I did not like that we jumped from the climax to three weeks later, with a summary of those three weeks, then a marriage proposal, and an epilogue three months later. The wrap-up of this book fell short imo and I needed to feel more satisfied with these characters, even though I did feel they were perfect for each other. I don’t think I’m continuing the series because I found this read incredibly stressful, even as I had to finish it.
Ian (H) was in a tremendously difficult position and he had to not only worry about his own safety and security, but also account for his sister’s and Olivia’s while working through a complicated medical problem under heavy duress. He’s also got the threat of being labeled a traitor hanging over his head. Olivia (h) was such a feather brain in book 1 and this book turns everything you thought you knew about her completely on its head. She’s bright, resourceful, and a wanna-be spy, though she’s also impulsive and in way over her head with the danger Ian’s embroiled in. These two have forced proximity, a fake relationship, and high pressure danger working to tear away their walls and creating bonding. Though the romance was choppy for me personally due to the plot.
Written in third person, dual POV. Small amounts of ow and om drama. The H starts the book proposing to someone (out of obligation to his title) and questions about that relationship due pop up later. The h is planning on marrying a target to spy on him and also faces some uncomfortable attention from one of the villains. Neither main has interest in anyone but the other from a romantic standpoint.
I really can’t mention the bulk of this story because it had so many twists. But I will say there are multiple villains, violence on page, espionage, and lots of medical terminology and experimentation. Ian and Olivia kept secrets from each other but it also made sense. Olivia had a lot of growth to go through and she does make some foolhardy errors, while also saving the day in other ways. Their chemistry was nice and the steam is slow burn but hot. I just needed more consistency from them and time with them outside of all the madness to see what their relationship would look like in the everyday sense.
The climax (like the rest of the book) has so many moving parts. I did wish that one of the villains had something more drastic happen to them because I hated them the most and I’m vengeful. I did not like that we jumped from the climax to three weeks later, with a summary of those three weeks, then a marriage proposal, and an epilogue three months later. The wrap-up of this book fell short imo and I needed to feel more satisfied with these characters, even though I did feel they were perfect for each other. I don’t think I’m continuing the series because I found this read incredibly stressful, even as I had to finish it.
April 6, 2019
I have found my happy place in the steampunk genre and it doesn't involve paranormals! The Elemental Web Chronicles series by Anne Renwick is smart and engaging with a romance you won't want to stop reading. Lady Olivia is a very intelligent woman and she knows to pursue her life's passion she also has a duty to complete. She's been trained to be a spy via marriage to political targets. After a failed mission, her only hope to redeem herself is to spy on one of the crown's own researchers who had worked with her father and is currently suspected of treason. Lord Rathsburn was trying to cure his sister when he found fatal consequences to the cells he engineered as a cure. Thinking this research was terminated, he's shocked when he finds out his sister is being held hostage by a German count who demands he come immediately and provide a cure for his guardsmen. But he wasn't expecting the attractive Lady Olivia to be a stowaway while he was making his escape into German territory and now has to pretend she's his wife while he works to save his sister.THE SILVER SKULL had it all. It was fun, engaging, and interesting. The characters are endearing and I love that the heroines are not damsels in distress. They are strong, intelligent women and can add something to the solution of the story and give their hero a much needed hand.If you like historical romances with a bit of adventure, you'll enjoy this series. Also if you are interested in romances that blend in medicine and science well into the plot, you'll enjoy this series. The steampunk aspect is very light and I think even for the people that struggle with this genre like me it'll be a winning experience. Give it a try!*Reviewed by Francesca❤ ♡ Don't want to miss any of our posts? Subscribe to our blog by email! ♡ ❤
November 4, 2021
In book 1, I thought Lady Olivia was a husband hunting socialite, and I thought there was no way she’d be the smart heroine I needed. I was pleasantly surprised that her tinkering was really a gift in mechanical engineering, and her dreams of being a spy and controlling her own life were so well hidden under those husband hunting activities!
Ian was a gifted physician and researcher, but a little list in the wife seeking realm. He wanted to just check a box on his to do list for “wife obtained”. I thought his back story was very tragic and totally understood why he was potentially creating treason to save his sister.
The star of this book is Olivia. She comes into her own in this one, gains confidence in her skills, and with Ian, saves the day. I’m a sucker die a good fake relationship trope, and this delivered! I loved how Ian became possessive as soon as they started acting married. Ian completely falls for Olivia, and really how could he not? She was completely charming.
This one has a unique storyline with biological warfare being researched. Ian and Olivia head to Germany and must outsmart their hosts, save his sister, and not commit treason. It was a fun adventure, and I cannot wait to read book 3! I’m hoping later in the series we get Black’s book because I’m 100% ready for that charmer to be smitten!
Ian was a gifted physician and researcher, but a little list in the wife seeking realm. He wanted to just check a box on his to do list for “wife obtained”. I thought his back story was very tragic and totally understood why he was potentially creating treason to save his sister.
The star of this book is Olivia. She comes into her own in this one, gains confidence in her skills, and with Ian, saves the day. I’m a sucker die a good fake relationship trope, and this delivered! I loved how Ian became possessive as soon as they started acting married. Ian completely falls for Olivia, and really how could he not? She was completely charming.
This one has a unique storyline with biological warfare being researched. Ian and Olivia head to Germany and must outsmart their hosts, save his sister, and not commit treason. It was a fun adventure, and I cannot wait to read book 3! I’m hoping later in the series we get Black’s book because I’m 100% ready for that charmer to be smitten!
February 10, 2024
2 1/2
Not as good as the first. Still pleasant, but lacking the foundation on which to stand. Too much had little logical sense (family totally oblivious, sending one's daughter to peril, assign an untrained 'agent' such a difficult mission).
Not as good as the first. Still pleasant, but lacking the foundation on which to stand. Too much had little logical sense (family totally oblivious, sending one's daughter to peril, assign an untrained 'agent' such a difficult mission).
July 29, 2019
I must admit that I hated Lady Olivia in the previous book thinking her an empty-headed idiot!
But here she's anything but! LOL I love when this happens!
So, we discover that Olivia is actually an intelligent girl. A little bit reckless, but still clever!
Yes, she acts like a naive, but it's not because she's stupid: it's because she hasn't the training to be a field agent however she wants to be one and make mistakes.
Ian, on the other hand, is overly cautious. He overthinks things and often comes to the wrong decision. He wants to protect Olivia even when he knows that accepting her help will result in a much better resolution. But that's him: a wannabe knight in white armour! LOL
The best part of this book is the steampunk presudo science! I just loved these parts! The Captain Jack's Tension Torque, osforare apparatus, Watson, the zoetomatic hedgehog and many, many others! I loved all the world here!
But here she's anything but! LOL I love when this happens!
So, we discover that Olivia is actually an intelligent girl. A little bit reckless, but still clever!
Yes, she acts like a naive, but it's not because she's stupid: it's because she hasn't the training to be a field agent however she wants to be one and make mistakes.
Ian, on the other hand, is overly cautious. He overthinks things and often comes to the wrong decision. He wants to protect Olivia even when he knows that accepting her help will result in a much better resolution. But that's him: a wannabe knight in white armour! LOL
The best part of this book is the steampunk presudo science! I just loved these parts! The Captain Jack's Tension Torque, osforare apparatus, Watson, the zoetomatic hedgehog and many, many others! I loved all the world here!
August 3, 2017
As the daughter of a prominent Duke, Lady Olivia is expected to marry, produce heirs for her husband, and run a successful household - all things she was taught to do. Except Olivia is also a Queen’s agent, trained to marry a politically motivated target and report on his activities. Olivia sees this as a means to an end; becoming a widow and then a field agent. Tired of waiting for field assignment, Olivia takes matters in her own hands when she decides to follow Lord Ian Rathsburn.
Ian is a man with a tarnished reputation; a former Queen’s agent whose life work was stolen and is being developed by the enemy: Germany. Yet when his enemies kidnap his sister, Ian must act traitor to his country and help the Germans further develop his ideas, working along side his former friend - the man who stole his work. Finding stowaway Lady Olivia on his dirigible, Ian isn’t certain if she’s a bubble-headed woman looking for a husband, or an agent of the Queen looking to bring him in.
The second story in Ms. Renwick’s wonderful Elemental Web Chronicles is equally exciting and doubly adventurous as its predecessor. The story not only takes readers across the sea to Germany, but also opens up the setting to the much larger world. The world building continues as new characters are introduced, some with long-term potential. I feel like the entire Elemental Web Chronicles universe has expanded immensely after just one additional book. Even though things are growing within the series mythos, The Silver Skull is a tightly-woven story. The author does a fabulous job bring her world and characters to life without overwhelming readers/listeners.
The romance between physician Ian and engineer Olivia is entertaining. I love the use of “scientific exploration” as a means for examining their mutual and intense attraction. They banter and play as only two geeks could, which is very enduring to me. I appreciate the conundrum of being spies and the need to keep secrets versus creating a solid rapport based on honesty. Their romance burns slowly, but the unfulfilled desire keeps pulling the two together.
At first I was concerned that the similarities between The Silver Skull and the first title, The Golden Spider, would make for a repetitive listen; a scientist working to save a sibling, confiscation of experimental equipment, etc. However, the stories truly are very different. This story is very dark. Rathsburn’s sister, Elizabeth, is not only being held against her will but she's being experimented on, and she's been forced into an engagement to the evil faux doctor. There are several scenes that left me a bit uncomfortable because of the extent of coercion and/or “torture” involved. But with that said, the story never ventures into gratuitous violence, and there is a happy ending!
Once again, I adored the narration by Ms. Meire. Her “proper English” accent fits my ideas of how these ladies and lords would speak. She tosses in some lower-brow voices, as well as German and Chinese accents. Each male and female has their own, unique voice, with both genders well-presented.
While at first I was thrown by what appeared to be a “one-eighty” in Olivia’s character between the first and second books, I grew to appreciate the extent Olivia goes to find her own happiness out of life, regardless of her mother’s expectations and desires. Finding love despite one’s preconceived notions, while accepting someone for who they are in earnest, is the true message behind this exciting steampunk adventure.
My Rating: B+
Narration: A-
Review copy provided by Tantor Audio
Ian is a man with a tarnished reputation; a former Queen’s agent whose life work was stolen and is being developed by the enemy: Germany. Yet when his enemies kidnap his sister, Ian must act traitor to his country and help the Germans further develop his ideas, working along side his former friend - the man who stole his work. Finding stowaway Lady Olivia on his dirigible, Ian isn’t certain if she’s a bubble-headed woman looking for a husband, or an agent of the Queen looking to bring him in.
The second story in Ms. Renwick’s wonderful Elemental Web Chronicles is equally exciting and doubly adventurous as its predecessor. The story not only takes readers across the sea to Germany, but also opens up the setting to the much larger world. The world building continues as new characters are introduced, some with long-term potential. I feel like the entire Elemental Web Chronicles universe has expanded immensely after just one additional book. Even though things are growing within the series mythos, The Silver Skull is a tightly-woven story. The author does a fabulous job bring her world and characters to life without overwhelming readers/listeners.
The romance between physician Ian and engineer Olivia is entertaining. I love the use of “scientific exploration” as a means for examining their mutual and intense attraction. They banter and play as only two geeks could, which is very enduring to me. I appreciate the conundrum of being spies and the need to keep secrets versus creating a solid rapport based on honesty. Their romance burns slowly, but the unfulfilled desire keeps pulling the two together.
At first I was concerned that the similarities between The Silver Skull and the first title, The Golden Spider, would make for a repetitive listen; a scientist working to save a sibling, confiscation of experimental equipment, etc. However, the stories truly are very different. This story is very dark. Rathsburn’s sister, Elizabeth, is not only being held against her will but she's being experimented on, and she's been forced into an engagement to the evil faux doctor. There are several scenes that left me a bit uncomfortable because of the extent of coercion and/or “torture” involved. But with that said, the story never ventures into gratuitous violence, and there is a happy ending!
Once again, I adored the narration by Ms. Meire. Her “proper English” accent fits my ideas of how these ladies and lords would speak. She tosses in some lower-brow voices, as well as German and Chinese accents. Each male and female has their own, unique voice, with both genders well-presented.
While at first I was thrown by what appeared to be a “one-eighty” in Olivia’s character between the first and second books, I grew to appreciate the extent Olivia goes to find her own happiness out of life, regardless of her mother’s expectations and desires. Finding love despite one’s preconceived notions, while accepting someone for who they are in earnest, is the true message behind this exciting steampunk adventure.
My Rating: B+
Narration: A-
Review copy provided by Tantor Audio
September 25, 2017
3.5 stars
Want to read
December 27, 2022don't ask me why i own this book because i have no idea.
August 2, 2024
UPDATE: This is a favorite Steampunk series which I read originally. I have since purchased the audiobooks for most of the titles and am listening my way through this time. I am finding the series every bit as delightful as I remembered. I highly recommend this series. My original post follows.
ORIGINAL POST:
I am absolutely Delighted with the Elemental Steampunk series by Anne Renwick. She is a new-to-me author that is quickly becoming a top favorite.
I truly Loved! Loved! The Silver Skull (#4 in the suggested reading order). Again, the cover artwork caught my attention and the writing continued to pull me right in. The plotting and storyline in the Silver Skull is ingenious, complicated and captivating. The main characters are entirely unique - a male and female protagonist who are both scientists and a spy & liaison for England. Under the most trying circumstances Dr Ian Stanton/MMC and Lady Olivia/FMC together establish loyalty, build trust and eventually discover love. The Silver Skull reeks of espionage and treachery, is packed with adventure (dirigibles, pterodactyls, monster river kraken, mad-scientists) yet remains light and action-packed. Fabulous!
London, 1885.
Lord Ian Stanton, Earl of Rathsburn/MMC a former research medical espionage spy for England and once among the Queen’s favorite, is an orthopedic research dr at Lister Laboratories where only the most brilliant minds work under the Queen’s direction. His ill sister has been abducted by Germans who hope to obtain his cutting-edge medical knowledge by threatening her, providing them with great advances in warfare.
Lady Olivia/FMC is the middle daughter of well-connected & powerful Duke of Avesbury, Intelligence attaché to the Queen of England (and sister to both Lady Emily/The Tin Rose and Lady Amanda/The Golden Spider). Lady Olivia has been serving the Queen for several years in Intelligence service playing her part as a societal liaison although she has a sharp mind and a degree in programming from an esteemed technical institute which she must temporarily deny. While working to capture a marriage proposal from one of a group of aged titled men of whom the Queen seeks continued surveillance, the Queen tosses Lady Oliver a temporary assignment - surveil Lord Stanton. Compromised by his sister’s health, Lord Stanton is expected of treason in leading medical knowledge. Lady Olivia is immensely bored constantly portraying her role - the silly privileged flirt and title-seeking debutante - so she eagerly accepts the new challenge. But flying into Germany into the heart of the enemy’s territory in a dirigible that very evening wasn’t in her plan.
I highly recommend The Silver Skull (and Anne Renwick’s Elemental Steampunk series) to readers of action/adventure novels and mysteries, fast moving angst-free historical romances, novels involving science and/or intrigue (spy novels), those who enjoy intelligent, capable characters who willingly pool their resources for a common good in a Proximity/Danger trope, creative novels with a light touch and a HEA. You will Not be disappointed!
I look forward to reading the next titles in the series - #5/Kraken and Canals, a short story and #6/A Trace of Copper, a Tale. Renwick’s website has the recommended complete reading order - #1/Tin Rose/a short story, #2/Golden Spider, a full length title, and #3/Rust and Steam, a short story begin the series. Each title is a delightful standalone but an overall story arc connects them.
READER CAUTIONS
Violence - Similar to a PG/PG-13 rated adventure movie.
Profanity - None.
Sexual situations - Yes. 2 scenes of intimacy. Considering the length of this novel/6 delightful hrs, they are brief and could easily be skipped by those who prefer entirely Clean reading.
ORIGINAL POST:
I am absolutely Delighted with the Elemental Steampunk series by Anne Renwick. She is a new-to-me author that is quickly becoming a top favorite.
I truly Loved! Loved! The Silver Skull (#4 in the suggested reading order). Again, the cover artwork caught my attention and the writing continued to pull me right in. The plotting and storyline in the Silver Skull is ingenious, complicated and captivating. The main characters are entirely unique - a male and female protagonist who are both scientists and a spy & liaison for England. Under the most trying circumstances Dr Ian Stanton/MMC and Lady Olivia/FMC together establish loyalty, build trust and eventually discover love. The Silver Skull reeks of espionage and treachery, is packed with adventure (dirigibles, pterodactyls, monster river kraken, mad-scientists) yet remains light and action-packed. Fabulous!
London, 1885.
Lord Ian Stanton, Earl of Rathsburn/MMC a former research medical espionage spy for England and once among the Queen’s favorite, is an orthopedic research dr at Lister Laboratories where only the most brilliant minds work under the Queen’s direction. His ill sister has been abducted by Germans who hope to obtain his cutting-edge medical knowledge by threatening her, providing them with great advances in warfare.
Lady Olivia/FMC is the middle daughter of well-connected & powerful Duke of Avesbury, Intelligence attaché to the Queen of England (and sister to both Lady Emily/The Tin Rose and Lady Amanda/The Golden Spider). Lady Olivia has been serving the Queen for several years in Intelligence service playing her part as a societal liaison although she has a sharp mind and a degree in programming from an esteemed technical institute which she must temporarily deny. While working to capture a marriage proposal from one of a group of aged titled men of whom the Queen seeks continued surveillance, the Queen tosses Lady Oliver a temporary assignment - surveil Lord Stanton. Compromised by his sister’s health, Lord Stanton is expected of treason in leading medical knowledge. Lady Olivia is immensely bored constantly portraying her role - the silly privileged flirt and title-seeking debutante - so she eagerly accepts the new challenge. But flying into Germany into the heart of the enemy’s territory in a dirigible that very evening wasn’t in her plan.
I highly recommend The Silver Skull (and Anne Renwick’s Elemental Steampunk series) to readers of action/adventure novels and mysteries, fast moving angst-free historical romances, novels involving science and/or intrigue (spy novels), those who enjoy intelligent, capable characters who willingly pool their resources for a common good in a Proximity/Danger trope, creative novels with a light touch and a HEA. You will Not be disappointed!
I look forward to reading the next titles in the series - #5/Kraken and Canals, a short story and #6/A Trace of Copper, a Tale. Renwick’s website has the recommended complete reading order - #1/Tin Rose/a short story, #2/Golden Spider, a full length title, and #3/Rust and Steam, a short story begin the series. Each title is a delightful standalone but an overall story arc connects them.
READER CAUTIONS
Violence - Similar to a PG/PG-13 rated adventure movie.
Profanity - None.
Sexual situations - Yes. 2 scenes of intimacy. Considering the length of this novel/6 delightful hrs, they are brief and could easily be skipped by those who prefer entirely Clean reading.
January 13, 2021
Good
While not as exciting as the first one in my opinion, I still enjoyed learning that there was more to Olivia than what we first saw in Amanda’s book. The only thing I would say is that it was too convenient that Olivia was a type of spy but we saw none of that in the first book. Again, nit picky, but just my opinion.
While not as exciting as the first one in my opinion, I still enjoyed learning that there was more to Olivia than what we first saw in Amanda’s book. The only thing I would say is that it was too convenient that Olivia was a type of spy but we saw none of that in the first book. Again, nit picky, but just my opinion.
August 12, 2023
Ooooh this book satisfied my steampunk, science fiction with a splash of romance cravings! After reading book 1 I was more than a little curious about Lady Olivia and this story didn't disappoint me in regards to her. There was, by far, more than met the eye with that character.
February 7, 2017
Review to come.
July 14, 2024
I enjoyed this installment even though it was written in the same format as the first. Hero a scientist whose work is stolen by a lab assistant. Heroine has a degree from a technical college which is hidden from society. Hero and heroine inadvertently thrown together to solve an impossible medical issue under pressure of torture. Hero's sister has an incurable illness that hero has been trying to cure for years. A family member betrays hero. An evil villain tortures people as test subjects. If you read The Golden Spider, this will all sound familiar.
Having said that, I really, really liked Olivia. Though completely untrained as an agent, she was able to hold her own and even save the hero a time or two. I liked Ian and his determination to do everything himself until he gets a load of Olivia.
All in all, a terrific story that definitely holds your attention and keeps you turning pages as events are happening all the time. I will read #3 but I think I'm going to wait a little while to give these two books time to settle.
Having said that, I really, really liked Olivia. Though completely untrained as an agent, she was able to hold her own and even save the hero a time or two. I liked Ian and his determination to do everything himself until he gets a load of Olivia.
All in all, a terrific story that definitely holds your attention and keeps you turning pages as events are happening all the time. I will read #3 but I think I'm going to wait a little while to give these two books time to settle.
April 18, 2022
4.5 Stars:)
April 4, 2017
It's a good thing the author had the first chapters of this book at the back of the first one because otherwise I wouldn't have bothered with Lady Olivia's story. Yet, as it turns out, she's even more fascinating than Lady Amanda and is yet another tired Victorian/steampunk trope turned inside-out to make her into something fresh and new. The medical science in this book again showed the author's background perfectly, and I tore through it - thank goodness for being on a low-demand vacation! I can't recommend this series enough and am hoping for a third soon!
October 16, 2021
Very slow, difficult to get engaged with the characters, but I liked the world building.
July 2, 2017
I liked this. The leading lady was much more than she seemed in her sister's book and the leading man was a nice guy hero which was pleasant for a change. Hope there will be more of these - it is nice when steampunk elements are more than dressing the heroine in a corset and having her say "Look there's an airship is over there."
February 7, 2017
Review coming soon!
November 18, 2017
Excellent story
This has all the elements you want in a great steampunk tale. I particularly admire Olivia. I hope there are more stories to follow. Highly recommended.
This has all the elements you want in a great steampunk tale. I particularly admire Olivia. I hope there are more stories to follow. Highly recommended.
August 27, 2020
Setting: London & Germany 1885
Genre: Steampunk romance
Lady Olivia Ravensdale, the youngest daughter of the Duke of Avesbury, is a trained societal liaison in Her Majesty’s service. This involves foreign languages, lock picking, and programming skills. The aim is for her to marry a man suspected of treason, collect information, and report to the Queen. Everything was set for her to marry a target, but it all fell apart at the end of The Golden Spider (the first book in the series). Olivia’s desire is to become a field agent, but she cannot do so until she is a widow (you know, when this first came up, I thought maybe she was an assassin. After all, her ex-fiancé was not an old man. Alas, I was wrong). Any hoo, her mother decides to take her to Italy until the scandal that precipitated her broken engagement passes. Also, there is an old Italian Count who is of interest to the Crown, and it has been decided that he is Olivia’s new target. On the dirigible flight to Italy, Olivia is tasked with planting listening devices in the luggage of Lord Ian Stanton, Earl of Rathsburn. He is a former Queen’s agent, now suspected of stealing a medical device he designed to give to the Germans (with whom England is at war). He is in fact taking the device and formula for creating unbreakable bones, because his sister is being held hostage. When she goes into his room to do this, she doesn’t find his bags in either the lounge or bedroom of his quarters. But she does find them in the escape dirigible. After placing a device in the lining of each case, she hears him coming and conceals herself in a closet. And so she ends up crossing Into Germany with him. Even though they are keeping secrets, they have to work together to get out of the situation alive. Meanwhile, there is not only attraction, but love growing between them. But is it strong enough to stand up to the revelations to come?
This story is great. The plot is interesting and aside from a couple of minor holes it kept me entertained. The characters are well developed and generally believable in the context of the story. The character I liked best is Wei (not sure of the spelling because... audio), the 10 year old niece of the German baron’s Chinese henchman. The dialogue seems to be productive, and there’s hardly any stupid-as-plot-device.
You know what kept this from being a solid 4 stars for the overall score? The narration. I gave Ms. Miere the benefit of the doubt for her performance in the first book. But this is actually worse. How can that be? She’s been a professional narrator years. She should know how to create characters. She should know how to pronounce words. There is one more book in The Elemental Steampunk Chronicle Series, and I know she narrates it. I’m getting all twisted up on whether I want to use a credit and have to deal with this horrible performer, or just skip it. I’m leaning toward skipping.
Genre: Steampunk romance
Lady Olivia Ravensdale, the youngest daughter of the Duke of Avesbury, is a trained societal liaison in Her Majesty’s service. This involves foreign languages, lock picking, and programming skills. The aim is for her to marry a man suspected of treason, collect information, and report to the Queen. Everything was set for her to marry a target, but it all fell apart at the end of The Golden Spider (the first book in the series). Olivia’s desire is to become a field agent, but she cannot do so until she is a widow (you know, when this first came up, I thought maybe she was an assassin. After all, her ex-fiancé was not an old man. Alas, I was wrong). Any hoo, her mother decides to take her to Italy until the scandal that precipitated her broken engagement passes. Also, there is an old Italian Count who is of interest to the Crown, and it has been decided that he is Olivia’s new target. On the dirigible flight to Italy, Olivia is tasked with planting listening devices in the luggage of Lord Ian Stanton, Earl of Rathsburn. He is a former Queen’s agent, now suspected of stealing a medical device he designed to give to the Germans (with whom England is at war). He is in fact taking the device and formula for creating unbreakable bones, because his sister is being held hostage. When she goes into his room to do this, she doesn’t find his bags in either the lounge or bedroom of his quarters. But she does find them in the escape dirigible. After placing a device in the lining of each case, she hears him coming and conceals herself in a closet. And so she ends up crossing Into Germany with him. Even though they are keeping secrets, they have to work together to get out of the situation alive. Meanwhile, there is not only attraction, but love growing between them. But is it strong enough to stand up to the revelations to come?
This story is great. The plot is interesting and aside from a couple of minor holes it kept me entertained. The characters are well developed and generally believable in the context of the story. The character I liked best is Wei (not sure of the spelling because... audio), the 10 year old niece of the German baron’s Chinese henchman. The dialogue seems to be productive, and there’s hardly any stupid-as-plot-device.
You know what kept this from being a solid 4 stars for the overall score? The narration. I gave Ms. Miere the benefit of the doubt for her performance in the first book. But this is actually worse. How can that be? She’s been a professional narrator years. She should know how to create characters. She should know how to pronounce words. There is one more book in The Elemental Steampunk Chronicle Series, and I know she narrates it. I’m getting all twisted up on whether I want to use a credit and have to deal with this horrible performer, or just skip it. I’m leaning toward skipping.
October 5, 2017
Anne Renwick has been a recent Author find for me and I am so glad I did! The Elemental Web Chronicles Series is steampunk regency romance in a similar style to Cindy Spencer Pape and Bec McMaster. Anne's style is still very unique and really draws out the intrigue and suspense.
The Silver Skull is the second book in the series and centres around Lady Olivia and Lord Rathsburn. Over the course of the story Lady Olivia grows into herself and has to decide whether to allow others to dictate her future or to brave societies scrutiny to follow her own desires. Lord Rathsburn must face the scrutiny of the country he calls his own to help those nearest to him and to help those who can't help themselves.
Working together to help people who desperately need it and to save themselves, both soon find that neither is who they thought the other was.
The great chemistry between these two and all the facts that come to light throughout the story create a tale that had me always saying "just one more chapter".
I listened to this story as an audiobook and just cannot wait for book three to come up as an audiobook so I have already ordered the print book, very excited to read much more from Anne Renwick over the coming years!
The Silver Skull is the second book in the series and centres around Lady Olivia and Lord Rathsburn. Over the course of the story Lady Olivia grows into herself and has to decide whether to allow others to dictate her future or to brave societies scrutiny to follow her own desires. Lord Rathsburn must face the scrutiny of the country he calls his own to help those nearest to him and to help those who can't help themselves.
Working together to help people who desperately need it and to save themselves, both soon find that neither is who they thought the other was.
The great chemistry between these two and all the facts that come to light throughout the story create a tale that had me always saying "just one more chapter".
I listened to this story as an audiobook and just cannot wait for book three to come up as an audiobook so I have already ordered the print book, very excited to read much more from Anne Renwick over the coming years!
July 7, 2019
This is the second book in the Elemental Web Chronicles. This series is a trilogy with a variety of short stories available as well. I love this book just as much as the first in the series. These are such great steampunk reads!
I listened to this on audiobook, just like I did with the first book in the series.. The audiobook is well done. I do feel like the men sound a bit robotic (same issue with the last book) but the narration and women’s voices are very well done.
This book follows Olivia (who is introduced in the first book). Olivia is not at all who she was originally portrayed to be. She aspires to be a spy for the Queen but in order to gain her independence she must wed and become a widow first. Olivia wants to jump start her career as a spy and, when the opportunity presents itself, she stows away on Lord Rathsburn’s dirigible. Not only do Olivia and Rathsburn end up in a number of dangerous situations, but they end up drawn to each other as well.
I love how well these stories balance steampunk elements with adventure, action and romance. I also love that the story again has a very scientific bent to it. Olivia specializes in programming and Lord Rathsburn in genetic engineering.
The writing flows nicely and the story is incredibly engaging and sucks me right in. This is one of those audiobooks that I will take a longer route home from work so I can listen to it longer... The romance is also intensely engaging, there is such great chemistry between the lead characters!
Overall I loved this book just as much as the first one. This series is made for me, it blends together so many things I love. I love that the adventure, action, science, steampunk elements, and romance are perfectly balanced. I would recommend to those who enjoy a great steampunk adventure with romance. I look forward to reading the third book in the series, “The Iron Fin”.
I listened to this on audiobook, just like I did with the first book in the series.. The audiobook is well done. I do feel like the men sound a bit robotic (same issue with the last book) but the narration and women’s voices are very well done.
This book follows Olivia (who is introduced in the first book). Olivia is not at all who she was originally portrayed to be. She aspires to be a spy for the Queen but in order to gain her independence she must wed and become a widow first. Olivia wants to jump start her career as a spy and, when the opportunity presents itself, she stows away on Lord Rathsburn’s dirigible. Not only do Olivia and Rathsburn end up in a number of dangerous situations, but they end up drawn to each other as well.
I love how well these stories balance steampunk elements with adventure, action and romance. I also love that the story again has a very scientific bent to it. Olivia specializes in programming and Lord Rathsburn in genetic engineering.
The writing flows nicely and the story is incredibly engaging and sucks me right in. This is one of those audiobooks that I will take a longer route home from work so I can listen to it longer... The romance is also intensely engaging, there is such great chemistry between the lead characters!
Overall I loved this book just as much as the first one. This series is made for me, it blends together so many things I love. I love that the adventure, action, science, steampunk elements, and romance are perfectly balanced. I would recommend to those who enjoy a great steampunk adventure with romance. I look forward to reading the third book in the series, “The Iron Fin”.
December 22, 2020
Another fun story in this steampunk romance series. These are just the books I need to relax me while admiring a fun romance, adventure, and clever characters.
I was surprised to see Olivia in a lead role, since she didn't really endear herself to me previously. That said, she certainly filled her role. By the end, I found her to be as clever and resourceful as I hoped she would be. Ian is smart, broody, and strong. They have great chemistry and I loved the romantic tension between them. It led to some truly sexy moments and romantic drama.
The story had some great twists and turns. There were monsters, betrayals, murder, and plenty of adventure for our heroes. If you're looking for a breezy, exciting read or pure romantic fun, this is definitely a book for you to pick up. It's a sequel, but you don't really need to read the other books to enjoy this one.
I was surprised to see Olivia in a lead role, since she didn't really endear herself to me previously. That said, she certainly filled her role. By the end, I found her to be as clever and resourceful as I hoped she would be. Ian is smart, broody, and strong. They have great chemistry and I loved the romantic tension between them. It led to some truly sexy moments and romantic drama.
The story had some great twists and turns. There were monsters, betrayals, murder, and plenty of adventure for our heroes. If you're looking for a breezy, exciting read or pure romantic fun, this is definitely a book for you to pick up. It's a sequel, but you don't really need to read the other books to enjoy this one.
March 16, 2021
An excellent follow up to the golden spider, the silver skull follows Amanda’s older sister Olivia and offers a detailed discussion about how women have always been capable of so much more than “marrying.”
Still in the world of medical espionage, Olivia is a highly skilled programmer that makes their medical technology tick. But she’s not allowed to put her real name on her degree or speak of it to anyone. Make no mistake, any woman playing dumb is faking it.
Over and over, others underestimate her. But in classic Hermione style, the male protagonist wouldn’t have lived past chapter 7 without her skill and creativity.
Character driven, well-written, detailed and intelligent medical fantasy, espionage suspense, and an impenetrable castle. What’s not to love?
Still in the world of medical espionage, Olivia is a highly skilled programmer that makes their medical technology tick. But she’s not allowed to put her real name on her degree or speak of it to anyone. Make no mistake, any woman playing dumb is faking it.
Over and over, others underestimate her. But in classic Hermione style, the male protagonist wouldn’t have lived past chapter 7 without her skill and creativity.
Character driven, well-written, detailed and intelligent medical fantasy, espionage suspense, and an impenetrable castle. What’s not to love?
January 16, 2020
Poor Lady Olivia! Stuck with the usual social conventions that make marriage the only real option available to her - and ruined because of circumstances beyond her control. She and Claire Trevelyan (of Magnificent Devices) have so much in common. Lord Ian has the same problem, but at least he has the options to act in ways that may be rash but are considered socially acceptable - still, would Q want to be forced into an undesired marriage by M? What a couple Olivia and Ian make. What an action-filled and personally fulfilling courtship they had! Such fun for Shelly Adina, Gail Carriger and Ian Fleming fans!
September 13, 2021
I didn't care for this quite as much as the last one, I think part of it had something to do with the way the narrator did Olivia's voice.
Rathsburn's aversion to marry felt EVEN more forced than the last books hero. BUT, I did enjoy how the heroine did not require too much saving, she did a fair amount her self. Though she still came across as a little incompetent at times. And awww, look at this silly girl trying to do real agent work.
I did like what she decided to with herself at the end, and how she found her own place.
And again it was one of the better applications of steampunk I've read. Not too gimmicky, and just believable enough for the story.
Rathsburn's aversion to marry felt EVEN more forced than the last books hero. BUT, I did enjoy how the heroine did not require too much saving, she did a fair amount her self. Though she still came across as a little incompetent at times. And awww, look at this silly girl trying to do real agent work.
I did like what she decided to with herself at the end, and how she found her own place.
And again it was one of the better applications of steampunk I've read. Not too gimmicky, and just believable enough for the story.
February 16, 2022
A Delightful Blend of Action, Romance and Metal Skeletons
I’m loving the Elemental Steampunk Chronicles, each story has been riveting and filled with intrigue, with wonderful hero’s and heroines and equal fantastic villains (especially those villainous ladies!). This story has Olivia, Amanda’s sister from The Golden Spider, spying on Lord Rathsburn. I had completely missed that this was Lady Olivia from the first book - boy, does she undergo a dramatic character change, which I was completely on board with. I’m becoming a complete fan for this series, and for the rest of Anne Renwick’s work.
I’m loving the Elemental Steampunk Chronicles, each story has been riveting and filled with intrigue, with wonderful hero’s and heroines and equal fantastic villains (especially those villainous ladies!). This story has Olivia, Amanda’s sister from The Golden Spider, spying on Lord Rathsburn. I had completely missed that this was Lady Olivia from the first book - boy, does she undergo a dramatic character change, which I was completely on board with. I’m becoming a complete fan for this series, and for the rest of Anne Renwick’s work.
October 8, 2021
3.5 / 4 stars
The storyline was good, but I grew weary of the Katarina character. (I listen to the story, so I'm not sure of the spelling.) To me she was a one dimensional villainess. Liked Lord Rathsburn and Olivia. Again, Anne Renwick does a great job bringing forth a strong female character. She's not wrapped up in balls, teas, fashion and gossip. She wants more in her life than frippery and social gatherings.
The storyline was good, but I grew weary of the Katarina character. (I listen to the story, so I'm not sure of the spelling.) To me she was a one dimensional villainess. Liked Lord Rathsburn and Olivia. Again, Anne Renwick does a great job bringing forth a strong female character. She's not wrapped up in balls, teas, fashion and gossip. She wants more in her life than frippery and social gatherings.
Read
May 17, 2022I unfortunately think it may be due to her depiction in the first book but I really couldn’t get on board with Lady Olivia. It just didn’t feel right. However there were some great side characters here, including a spunky kid which is one of my favorite tropes.
Also the plot here was confusing, crossing the borders and the larger world politics brought too much into a story that didn’t have time to explain it.
Also the plot here was confusing, crossing the borders and the larger world politics brought too much into a story that didn’t have time to explain it.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 8, 2024
Finished listening to this at 11.59pm. So pleased with myself.
Once again, loved the narrator and loved the story. I'm on a hunt for good steampunk novels and I think this series is one of the good ones.
However, the characters and their relationships are starting to look samey.
I did enjoy the high stakes with China, and Russia stirred into the pot. But Olivia and Ian are basically Amanda and her dude 2.0
Once again, loved the narrator and loved the story. I'm on a hunt for good steampunk novels and I think this series is one of the good ones.
However, the characters and their relationships are starting to look samey.
I did enjoy the high stakes with China, and Russia stirred into the pot. But Olivia and Ian are basically Amanda and her dude 2.0
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