I was pretty excited to start this book. I liked that the author set the story in a Western environment and that the back cover indicated that the main character would be a guy. I’ve been trying to read more books with guys as the main character. They’re not quite as easy to find in my genres of choice as I would have first assumed. But this book surprised me. To me, Cedar Hunt was not the main character. In reality, there were multiple main characters. Cedar Hunt was not given any more page time than them, and I was disappointed that I was never able to sink into his character and get to know him well.
In my opinion (based on time spent in POV sections) there were at least three main characters. Cedar Hunt, a cursed man who’s determined to hunt for a missing boy, Mae Lindson, a grieving widow out for revenge, and Shard LeFel, the man at the center of all the unrest in the area. In addition to cycling through those main POVs, we also spent time in the heads of multiple other characters. Because of this, I never became substantially invested in any of the characters. I felt a distinct lack of depth, despite finding the plot intriguing.
I found the storyline fascinating, although after finishing the book I find myself with a lot of unanswered questions. Being that this is a series, it’s possible that the author wants to dole those answers out slowly, so I’ll give her the benefit of the doubt. The mix of magic and Steampunk worked very well together. Curses, magic, werewolves, zombies, and the Strange…they were all fascinating. And occasionally really creepy! Mr. Shunt and his freaky ability to stitch himself back together gave me the shivers.
I thought Mae’s storyline about her murdered husband was very tragic. Seeing Jeb’s POV gave their bond a particular poignancy. I think that’s why I resented the author’s subtle attempts to set the foundation for a future relationship between her and Cedar. Don’t get me wrong, it wasn’t in your face and there’s no actual romance in this book, but the author would throw in a little bit of lingering eye contact and subtle attraction that irritated me. Her husband died two days ago and they had such a soul deep bond that he was forced to be killed multiple times because the bond was so strong it pulled him from death. Trying to forge the seeds of a connection with another man while her husband is barely cold seemed a smack in the face to the bond that they shared.
My favorite characters were Rose Small and the Madder brothers. The Madder brothers were so fierce and wild and a little creepy. Their ability to pop up at just the right time and their habit of bargaining for favors made me intensely curious about what they are. The hints we were given about their connection to LeFel’s home just intensified that. And the way they shake hands—what’s up with that? Rose was impossible not to like. She was stuck in a life where she was unappreciated and thought a little mad. Watching her open herself to other people like herself was one of my favorite parts of the book.
Although the storyline takes place over a very short amount of time it never felt rushed. It actually felt a little bit slow at times. I’m interested in seeing where the author takes the characters in the second book. My only hope is that she gives her characters a little more depth. While I liked the book it felt more like I was watching a movie play out rather than immersing myself in a book.
Favorite Quote:
“Now, isn’t that a pretty thought? Forks of silver, spoons of moonlight. What do you suppose your knives should be made of, Mr. Hunt? Tears?”
Cedar cocked the hammer back on the Walker and aimed it at Alun’s head. “Don’t know about my knives, but my gun’s made of pain.”
Rating: C
Dead Iron by Devon Monk
July 5th 2011 by Roc Trade
Steampunk
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***Giveaway***
Thanks to Roc Trade we have one copy of Dead Iron by Devon Monk to giveaway! All you have to do to enter is leave a comment on this review. Because the prize is shipped directly from the publisher, giveaway is open to those with US mailing addresses only, no PO boxes please. Giveaway is open until July 2 winner announced soon after. Good luck!
About Catherine
I’m pretty excited for this one. Although I’ve heard some mixed reviews, I still can’t wait!
THX FOR THE AWESOME GIVEAWAY
I haven’t read this author yet. I love the cover on this book and I am intrigued by the premise, however I’m thinking I might have a hard time with the multiple POV’s and lack of focus on a main character. Seems a little confusing.
Thanks for the giveaway, the book looks interesting!
@MinnChica: It was a pretty cool world.
@Sophia (FV): It was an interesting style, but, for me, that sort of thing works better in movies. In books I crave a different sort of immersion in the characters.
I think it’s all a matter of style preference, though. Those who don’t mind that style probably won’t have any issues at all.
Great review, as always, Catherine!
@Sans: Thanks, Sans!
Thanks for the giveaway. I would like to give this book a try.
I can’t wait to read it for myself and find out if I will like this cool world
I love Devon Monk, so I’m excited about this book. Thanks for the review!
I’m really excited about reading this one! Thanks for the giveaway
It still sounds like a decent start to a series. Hopefully the characters will grow with the series.
Thanks for the review! I think I will take a chance on this series.
Great review, chica! I’m definitely excited to read this book. I’m also trying to read more books with male protagonists. I’m having a hard time getting into The Dresden Files series, but this book seems interesting if a little mediocre.
Thanks for the giveaway!! I would love to read this book.
@blodeuedd: I hope you do.
@Rebecca WS: This is my first book by her, but I’m planning to try out her Allie Beckstrom series, too.
@Melissa (Books and Things): I hope so, too.
@Ammarylis: Maybe this one will strike more of a cord with you. The world was pretty cool.
Good thing we’re friends. Otherwise I’d have to conclude you were crazy to speak such blasphemy about my beloved Dresden Files. Luckily I know you have good taste and have forgiven you for your lapse in judgment. But let us never speak of this again!
@Catherine:
LOL
Thank you for your review. I love a good movie *winks*!
Thanks for your honest opinion, I enjoyed your review. I’ve been waiting for Dead Iron to come out and I’m excited to have a chance to win a copy.
Thanks for the giveaway. Please enter me in contest. I would love to read this book. Tore923@aol.com
great review and fantastic contest.
scrtsbpal at yahoo dot com
Thanks for the giveaway!
daniellesaunders1984(at)hotmail(dot)com
I don’t know why I’m so fixated on the name Cedar. I’m obsessively trying to decide if I love it. Thanks for the giveaway!
b(dot)cardone(at)hotmail(dot)com
Sounds great. Thanks for the chance!
bacchus76 at myself dot com
@Catherine:
LMAO! Oops! I hadn’t read your comment before I mentioned it again. Shame on me.
@Sophia (FV):
@Bethany C.: Have you run across it often? This is actually the first time I’ve seen the name.
Thanks for the giveaway. I like western steampunk and I want to give this one a try.
@JenM: Have you read many like that? This is my first Western Steampunk.
I think this one is going on the wish list. I enjoy a change of a male’s POV. Thanks for the giveaway!
I’ve never read anything by this author but this does sound really. Thanks for a chance to win it.
I agree that a story line that has a character attracted to another person so soon after the death of a loved one would be a little strange.
meredithfl at gmail dot com
I’d love to give this book a shot- thanks for hosting the giveaway!
I agree…you don’t see guys as the main characters often enough!
looks like an interesting book to read!