Cody is one of the most imaginative authors I know, so I already knew I was in for a wild ride when I learned she was working on a romance set in a steampunk/fantasy world. The notes at the front of the text are useful, but Cody also includes enough useful details in the first chapters to immerse us into this unique setting without significant “info-dumping.” I appreciate authors who trust their readers to pick up on context clues when they are dropped into things slightly beyond what could have been considered the inciting incident if this had not also been a romance arc. Instead, the bond that develops between Edrick and Sparrow becomes the root from which the rest of the plot expands.
The relationship between Edrick and Sparrow is immediately possessive, which Cody justifies via both men’s characterizations, but is initially based more on complementary needs than love or romance. Things between them get surprisingly sexual fast, which may turn off some readers, but I found it easy to roll with since Edrick and Sparrow are both up-front with their desires and Edrick regularly emphasizes consent. The significant external plot involving political unrest in Edrick’s empire feels like the book’s primary focus while affection blossoms under the influence of the men’s undeniable chemistry. I did look forward to learning more about the context that led to their easy sexuality; however, while we get plenty of delicious worldbuilding to explain Edrick, the same doesn’t necessarily hold for Sparrow.
The eventual reveal of how Sparrow leaves the commune where he is raised and comes to live with Edrick is shocking but ultimately undramatic, leaving me with just as many questions as answers. Conversely, the bigger reveal of the true nature of Sparrow’s origins is handled dramatically and leads to escalating conflict, but I never did figure out the motivation between the villain’s long-term goals or his connection with another political plot point. This didn’t make the ending less satisfying, simply left room for Cody to expand on the story.
Of course, I have no idea whether Cody plans to do that. This book works well enough as a stand-alone, especially regarding the relationship arc between Edrick and Sparrow, but I’d happily let my final questions be answered by another novel set in this world. As usual, Cody surrounds her heroes with plenty of unique side characters who I’d more than enjoy in their own adventure.
Disclaimer: I received a digital review copy of this book from the author.