REVIEW: Chronicles of Steele: Raven by Pauline Creeden

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My Rating: 8 out of 10 stars

This was a highly entertaining steampunk fantasy. Raven is a reaper that lives by the reaper's code: for every life she takes, another must be redeemed. She's just about broken even, and has been seriously considering settling down and leaving the reaper life behind completely. But when she's asked to provide protection to the young Baron Darius of New Haven and bring him before the Wood Witch to help cure his malady, she decides to take this one last job. Unfortunately, things aren't quite as straightforward as she would've hoped, and along the way, it's not only her own life and that of her charge that are put in danger. To survive this trip, Raven will have to call upon all her reaper training, and examine her true feelings in the process.

I thought the author did an excellent job with the character and world building. The story takes place in an alternate universe, with cool steam-powered gadgetry, mechanical servants who look completely human, and yes evil witches too! I really connected with Raven's character. Despite her occupation, she's very real and vulnerable underneath her kickass exterior. I'm happy to see that Ms. Creeden will be releasing another book in the Chronicles of Steele universe in 2015 which will focus on young Darius, now the Duke of New Haven. I look forward to delving into more of this fantastic world.

Thank you to the author and NetGalley for providing a copy of this e-book in exchange for an honest review.