Title: Whitechapel Gods
Author: S.M. Peters
First published February 5, 2008
374 pages, Paperback
ISBN: 9780451461933 (ISBN10: 0451461932)
Rating: 3.29
Overview
The debut novel Whitechapel Gods by S.M. Peters is a thrilling Steampunk adventure that will have readers on the edge of their seats. Set in Victorian London, the Whitechapel district is a place of mechanized horror, where two mysterious, mechanical gods-Mama Engine and Grandfather Clock-rule over all.
After the Great Uprising, where humans fought against the machines, a few brave veterans of the Uprising formed their own Resistance. Now, they have a secret weapon that may be their salvation-or their doom.
Can the Resistance finally free themselves from the tyrannical rule of the gods or will they meet their demise? Find out in this exciting novel that blends fantasy, technology, and rebellion.
About the Author
Meet S.M. Peters, a resident of Middle-of-Nowhere on Lake Okanagan, British Columbia. He may not have a past as an ex-spy, ex-lawyer, ex-physicist, ex-Navy SEAL, or ex-Wall Street executive, but he does have an important job.
His daily commute takes him into the city, where he spends his days helping teenagers improve their writing skills. He’s happily married and has an impressive collection of animals, rivaling even the Calgary Zoo.
Editoral Review
Whitechapel Gods by S.M. Peters is a unique and intriguing read that blends elements of fantasy, steampunk, and horror into a gripping tale of survival and rebellion in a dystopian world. Peters, whose real name is actually Sam Peters, is a prolific author whose works include thrillers, mysteries, and science fiction novels.
The novel is set in an alternate history where the Industrial Revolution has not only industrialized the world but also brought forth sentient machines known as ‘clankers’ that have enslaved humanity. The story takes place in the Whitechapel district of London, a grim and dirty place that is under the iron rule of the merciless clankers.
The citizens of Whitechapel live in constant fear of the clankers and the looming threat of the Purge, a periodic culling of the population. The novel follows the story of a young woman named Molly, who leads a group of rebels fighting against the clankers.
Peters’ writing style is captivating and immersive, drawing readers into the gritty world of Whitechapel with every page. The themes of oppression, resistance, and the struggle for liberation are expertly woven into the narrative, making the story not only entertaining but also thought-provoking.
One of the strengths of the novel is Peters’ ability to create complex and relatable characters. Molly, the protagonist, is fierce, determined, and loyal, while her love interest, Burton Cole, is nuanced and sympathetic even as he struggles with the moral implications of his work as a scientist working for the clankers.
The supporting cast of rebels and clanker agents are equally well-crafted, adding depth and substance to the story. Peters also excels at world-building, painting a vivid and disturbing picture of a society dominated by machines.
The descriptions of the clankers and their interactions with humans are both fascinating and terrifying, creating a sense of dread and tension that pervades the entire narrative. The use of Victorian-era language and style adds to the authenticity of the setting, making the story feel both historical and fantastical.
However, the book does have some limitations, the main one being its pacing. The story takes a while to get going and can feel slow at times, which may deter some readers.
Additionally, the ending is somewhat abrupt, leaving some loose ends untied and questions unanswered. Overall, Whitechapel Gods is a compelling and imaginative piece of writing that will appeal to fans of steampunk, dystopian fiction, and horror.
It’s a book that deserves to be read and appreciated for its creativity, depth, and masterful storytelling. It’s a definite must-read for anyone looking for something different and thought-provoking.
I would give this book a rating of 8 out of 10.