Soulless is the debut novel of authoress Gail Carriger.
Alexia Tarabotti is quite unique in that she has no soul. In a London full of vampires, werewolves, and other assorted supernatural elements, this is even more exceptional because her soulless state makes her a preternatural (someone able to nullify the powers of any supernatural creature with a touch). Alexia is bluestocking with a shocking independent streak and has easily resigned herself to spinsterhood. When she is attacked by a vampire at a dinner party she unintentionally involves herself in a conspiracy. Alexia sets about solving the mystery with nothing but her wits, her ability, and her parasol.
This book is practically literary perfection in my opinion and therefore gets 5 out of 5 stars.
The publishers describe Soulless as“a comedy of manners set in Victorian London full of werewolves, vampires, dirigibles, and tea-drinking." And yes, that about sums it up. This charming novel has it all: romance, adventure, and silly hats. Carriger seamlessly slips paranormal activities into Victorian times to create an amazing steampunk world. All aspects of life are covered, from public opinion to government offices. The ideals, manners, and etiquette of the time are largely unchanged and it’s interesting to watch a single woman maneuver through it all.
The writing is clever and sharp; it keeps the reader enjoyably engaged. It’s hard to read this novel without a smile on your face. Even the smallest characters are worth reading about and the entire supporting cast is well developed. I adore so many of the supporting characters that I won’t bother listing them here, just to save time. The main romance, while a bit cliché, is definitely a joy to read. The process of Lord Maccon and Alexia falling in love is impeded by social convention and sheer stubbornness on both their sides. It does get a bit raunchy towards the end, so I wouldn’t recommend this book for the younger set.
Soulless is the first book in the Parasol Protectorate series. The next three books in the series have already been published (Changeless, Blameless, and Heartless). The next in the series, entitled Timeless is expected to be published in March 2012.
Soulless is currently avaiable at your local library:
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