Synopsis:
It is the cusp of World War I, and all the European powers are arming up. The Austro-Hungarians and Germans have their Clankers, steam-driven iron machines loaded with guns and ammunition. The British Darwinists employ fabricated animals as their weaponry. Their Leviathan is a whale airship, and the most masterful beast in the British fleet.
Aleksandar Ferdinand, prince of the Austro-Hungarian Empire, is on the run. His own people have turned on him. His title is worthless. All he has is a battle-torn Stormwalker and a loyal crew of men.
Deryn Sharp is a commoner, a girl disguised as a boy in the British Air Service. She's a brilliant airman. But her secret is in constant danger of being discovered.
With the Great War brewing, Alek's and Deryn's paths cross in the most unexpected way...taking them both aboard the Leviathan on a fantastical, around-the-world adventure. One that will change both their lives forever.Leviathan was a good read. Not exactly my style, although I love Westerfeld's other works (Midnighters especially). The Characters are fun, and the alternate history meshes well with actual history.
The world that's been created is so intricate and believable, and I'm interested to see where the story goes in the coming books. I'm also very curious as to what's in those eggs.
The concept of the fabricated beasts along with the advanced machinery is a little confusing at first, but once it clicks it's easy to imagine. The illustrations are a great help, and look fantastic.
Like I said, it's definitely not my kind of book, but the story, action, and amazing illustrations kept me reading. Give it a try, you might like it.
Recommended if you like Scott Westerfeld, alternate history, World War 1, steampunk
