KISS OF STEEL by Bec McMaster

When I first picked up this book, I was like, "Wow, great cover!"  The shelves in the romance/paranormal section are always overflowing, so it takes a special something to stand out.  Then I read the back cover, and Kiss of Steel was coming home with me J.

WHEN NOWHERE IS SAFE

Most people avoid the dreaded Whitechapel district.  For Honoria Todd, it's the last safe haven.  But at what price?

Blade is known as the master of the rookeries--no one dares cross him.  It's been said he faced down the Echelon's army single-handedly, that ever since being infected by the blood-craving he's been quicker, stronger, almost immortal.

When Honoria shows up at his door, his tenuous control comes close to snapping.  She's so…innocent.  He doesn't see her backbone of steel--or that she could be the very salvation he's been seeking.

This book was so worth the price.

 

Great world building, and McMaster focused her story on two MCs that when thrown together made for a very fiery pair.  Honor's dilemma:  She's wanted by a sadistic vampire named Vickers, who her father used to work for.  Upon his death, Honor went into hiding with her two younger siblings and stole the one thing Vickers craves most--her father's precious diaries, which contain all his scientific research on finding a cure for the blood-craving virus.  (sidenote: Do NOT make the mistake of thinking this is just another vampire story.  It's so much more than that)

In Honor's world, being a vamp is fine so long as you don't let the disease take over.  It happens to every vamp eventually.  Honor's brother has been infected and she and her sister must keep it a secret or risk his death--even as he slowly fades away.  The upperclass (almost completely made up of vamps) don't want any new blood stepping onto their turf, and they run the city under an iron fist.  Except for the rookeries.

That brings me to Blade.  **WARNING: slightly off-topic rant ahead J**

He was just dandy!  As in, he totally and completely reminded me of Jack Dandy from The Girl in the Steel Corset, another Steampunk great.  Seriously, if you haven't read my review of that book, you probably don't know this but: I LOVED JACK!!  He was absolutely my fave character.

 

The things about Blade that were so Jack: 1) His awful/lovely cockney accent.  Seriously, I think I have a thing for guys with atrocious English lol!  2) His bad a** reputation.  In Kiss of Steel, Blade was a man you did not want to cross.  When Honor is called to his home (within the first few pgs) for being in his territory too long without paying a visit, even I felt nervous for her.  Blade was a bad, bad dude.  3) And yet, he was so protective of his people.  It was impossible not to fall in love with his small band of misfits.  Everyone in the crew had a story, a past.  But not one of them was as interesting as Blade J  He won me over with his Dandy-ness!!  Loved reading him, especially when he spoke.  *fans self*

In short, this book was Steampunk gold.  It's a definite keeper for me, and if you love Steampunk/adult romance, I'd greatly recommend!!

Happy Reading,

Ninja Girl

P.S. I'll be announcing the winner of the I LOVE STEAMPUNK Giveaway tomorrow, so stay tuned J