A review by janina_reads
Clockwork Heart by Dru Pagliassotti

3.0

Well. It took me quite a while to finish this book, and although it wasn't bad at all, I have to say that it didn't really manage to hold my attention for longer spans of time. I would read a chapter or two and then be absolutely content with putting the book away. Sometimes, I even found myself leafing through the book to see how many pages I had until the next chapter break. This is normally not a good sign. I also thought that some passages would have needed a good editor.

At the same time, though, the world was utterly fascinating: A city run by a clockwork heart set into a mountain. Icarii with metal wings sweeping through the air delivering messages. A caste system bound to create resent and rebellion among some groups. Detailed and vivid descriptions of the setting almost made me feel like I was part of it myself.

The romance played a smaller role, but that was fine with me. Despite some awkward situations, I found it sweet and believable. The two main characters were likeable, but remained a bit one-dimensional in my opinion.

What probably set me off the most was the resolution of the crime in this story. At the end, everything just tumbled into place at the most convenient moment. I also found it strange that people who weren't part of the police force and who were even considered suspects to some extend were involved so deeply and provided with confidential information.

Nevertheless, an original steampunk/urban fantasy novel with a little romance thrown in. If you are into those kinds of books, you might want to give Clockwork Heart a try.