by Joely Sue Burkhart
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Yes, yes...YES! NO! --I want book #4, now.
This was a delicious, action-packed addition to the series. It definitely stands on its own, but the reader will benefit from having read at least Lady Doctor Wyre, the first in the series since the three main characters continue on from there. The story gets some great mileage with the foray to the Forbidden City and the court intrigue there. Add in Queen Majel's ever present threat, and there is some heavy suspense.
New technology and toys. Some intriguing reveals and development of both this story and the over-arching series makes this fulfilling on multiple levels. A definite cat and mouse game that is fun to watch. There are at least three big wows as far as the characters and plot goes for this one. LIke I said, I highly recommend reading these in order. One might get away without reading #2, Her Grace's Stable, but there are a couple of clues that add to the story complexity, especially Queen Majel--whatever else, book #1 is a MUST.
The sensual teasing that just started the salivating in it is ramped up with some very tempting and satisfying discoveries by the Charlotte and Sig.
"Perhaps he isn’t afraid of me torturing him. But of liking it too much."
"Make me feel, Charlie. Give me something other than death tonight.”
Burkhart can be depended on to deliver strong characters and a high level of sensuality and that is evident here. The one great torment? Gil. The tension between Gil and Sig is killing me. Sweet mercy above.
He had the distinct longing to touch those marks and see what else she’d done to Sig.
This is beginning to feel like the Dance of the Seven Veils, and being the barbaric heathen that I am...I want to rip them all off at once.
Recommended for steampunk devotees, cultural melange lovers and polyamory fans
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