The Girl in the Steel Corset by Kady Cross

☆☆☆☆☆
Author: Kady Cross
Publisher: Harlequin Teen
Released: May 24, 2011
Pages: 473
Genre: YA, Steampunk
Source: Netgalley ARC


She thought there was something wrong with her. She was right. Finley Jayne has known for quite some time that she isn't 'normal', but when she beats up the son of her employer and is forced to flee, she stumbles into a world where there are bigger freaks than her. They take her in, treat her like family and demand her trust. How can Finley trust them when she can't trust herself? And why is she drawn to the powerful Griffin as well as the dangerous Jack? She has to get herself under control before she gets into trouble she can't get out of.
Griffin King is one of the most powerful men in Britain but he couldn't save his best friend from almost dying. He is determined to save Finley and help her become the person he knows she can be, but there's evil afoot in London. Machines have attacked humans under the orders of a nefarious criminal called The Machinist. He has sworn to protect his country against such a threat, but he's never faced any foe like this. However, when he discovers The Machinist's connection to his past, Griffin vows to end the villain once and for all -- but he'll need the help of all his friends, including the beautiful Finley Jayne -- the girl in the steel corset.


This is my first introduction to the genre Steampunk. What an intro it was! If all the novels from this genre are this exciting and unusual, then I am in for a treat. Old-fashioned morality, flowing gowns from the west to the orient, all mixed with machines that defy the time-period can only keep the reader intent on not setting the book down.


Kady Cross is a rising star of my top authors. Well versed and continuously surprising, she writes in a way that you want to lap up every word. She is able to illustrate the details down to the clothing without losing the attention of the reader.


Oh and the characters! Finley is your tomboy heroine, but has the gorgeous physique that every woman desires. Tough and rocks a strong attitude, she is still self conscious in a way that you can't help but warm up to. The two side-kicks, Emily and Sam, are one of a kind. Emily is sweet but incredibly smart while Sam is burly and head strong. And then there is Griffin. *swoon* There aren't many male characters that I fall for (yes, I am on neither the vampire or werewolf team), but Griffin stands out among them all. A gentleman by nature, reassuring to his team, and a leader by heart. Yet, he is unafraid to explore his imperfections and emotions. Even his natural abilities to manipulate the aether reflect that side of him.


Romance...YES! Did I mention Griffin King yet? Oh yes I did! The entire novel is a struggle of boundaries between Griffin, Finley, and Jack (the handsome and conniving henchman).


I cannot wait until I get my hands on the second of this series, The Girl in the Clockwork Collar,