When I was handed this book, I was not so sure that I would like it. As an avid sci-fi/fantasy reader, I have stumbled across my fair share of terrible steampunk. I am ecstatic to report that Phoenix Rising qualifies as excellent steampunk. This, mind you, is coming from a lady who likes to dress up in steampunk gear and attend conventions. I’d like to think that I’m discerning when it comes to my steampunk literature.

We are introduced to Miss Eliza Braun as she is rescuing our hero, Wellington Books, who has been captured and is on the brink of being interrogated. They escape explosively, and I mean that. This incident leads to Eliza, a field agent of the Ministry of Peculiar Occurrences, to be sentenced to desk work in the Archives, with our very own Wellington Books, who, sharp-witted and quiet, is quite meticulous about his Archives.

Despite his admiration of Eliza’s bosom, at first Wellington Books is not happy to have his Archives disturbed. However, as Eliza discovers all the cold cases placed quietly on the shelves on the Archives, she is determined to solve them – particularly the case that had left her first partner and paramour in Bedlam. In her enthusiasm, Eliza drags Books into the case, and so ensues adventure.

I enjoyed this book more than I think I can express in a single review. The moment I finished it I wanted the next one in the series. The steampunk world is incredible, all the way from awesome weaponry to colorful clothing. Eliza’s sassy attitude kept me upbeat throughout the entire book, even when I was scared for the characters’ lives. At one point I actually stopped reading and wondered, “How are the authors going to get them out of this?”

I must also say, nothing pleases me quite as much as a bad-ass heroine. Furthermore, the hero is equally as bad-ass, but in his own, unique flavor.

So, if you are a sci-fi/fantasy lover, or even if you’ve toyed with the idea of trying out the genre, I shall advise you on what I think you should do after you read this review: Drive to your local bookstore, and purchase Phoenix Rising. If you are looking for a quick-paced, passionate adventure with characters you’ll want to follow through many, many books, I am sure that Phoenix Rising is a superb choice. As I write this, I am still yearning for the next in the series.