Title: The Inventor’s Secret
Author: Andrea Cremer
First published April 22, 2014
416 pages, Paperback
ISBN: 9780147514387 (ISBN10: 014751438X)
Rating: 3.63
Overview
If you’re a fan of steampunk fiction, then you’ll love Andrea Cremer’s new series. The Inventor’s Secret follows sixteen-year-old Charlotte and her group of fellow refugees as they try to survive on the outskirts of Britain’s industrial empire.
Despite the constant threat of the Empire’s Labor Gatherers, they’ve managed to eke out a meager existence. But when a mysterious stranger with no memory of his past stumbles upon their camp, he brings with him a host of new dangers and secrets that could change everything.
Perfect for fans of The Diviners, Clockwork Angel, Leviathan, and Mortal Engines, this thrilling tale will keep you on the edge of your seat until the very end.
About the Author
Meet Andrea Cremer, the talented author behind the beloved Nightshade series. Growing up in the lush landscapes of Northern Wisconsin, Andrea spent her days lost in daydreams and exploring the natural world.
Writing has always been a passion of hers, and she has dedicated her life to honing her craft.
Although Andrea spent many years as a history professor at Macalester College in St. Paul, Minnesota, she eventually took the plunge into professional writing. Her novels seamlessly blend her two passions of history and fantasy, creating captivating and unique stories that have captured the hearts of readers worldwide.
Now living in New York, Andrea writes full time, continuing to create imaginative worlds and unforgettable characters that leave readers spellbound. If you want to connect with Andrea or learn more about her work, visit her website at andreacremer.com.
Editoral Review
In “The Inventor’s Secret” by Andrea Cremer, published on April 22, 2014, the author blends elements of history, science fiction, and romance to create an exciting adventure that will delight YA readers. Andrea Cremer is a bestselling author known for her “Nightshade” series and “Invisibility”, both of which feature strong female protagonists and fantastical elements.
“The Inventor’s Secret” is set in an alternate version of the American Revolution, where the British control the eastern seaboard, and the American rebels must rely on their own ingenuity and resources to withstand the enemy’s superior technology. In this world, Charlotte, the main character, is a young rebel spy who must navigate dangerous situations and uncover secrets that could change the course of the war.
The pacing is brisk, and the action scenes are thrilling, as Charlotte uses her wits and her courage to stay one step ahead of her enemies. The setting is richly detailed, with a mix of real historical figures and fictional inventions, such as steam-powered vehicles and clockwork automatons.
This mixture of past and future technologies creates a unique atmosphere that will appeal to readers who enjoy exploring alternative histories. Despite the heavy focus on action and adventure, the characters are well-developed, with complex motivations and relationships.
Charlotte is a strong, capable heroine who is not afraid to take risks, but who also has vulnerabilities and doubts. Her romantic relationship with fellow rebel Jack is also a highlight, as they wrestle with their feelings for each other while striving to survive against impossible odds.
However, the book is not without flaws. The plot can be convoluted at times, with too many twists and turns that can be hard to follow.
There are also some rehashed stereotypes of the genre, such as the evil British villains and the plucky, resourceful rebels. Overall, “The Inventor’s Secret” is an enjoyable read that YA fans of sci-fi, adventure, and historical fiction will appreciate.
Cremer’s writing is polished, and her passion for the subject matter shines through in every page. While it may not be a literary masterpiece, it is undoubtedly a fun, engaging, and exciting story that will keep readers turning pages until the very end.
Therefore, The Washington Post recommends “The Inventor’s Secret” to readers looking for a YA adventure story with a touch of romance and historical intrigue. It would also make an excellent introduction to fans of Cremer’s other works or those interested in alternative histories of the American Revolution.
On a scale of 1 to 10, we would give it an 8, based on its strong character development, imaginative world-building, and overall entertainment value.
