Review – The Devious Dr. Jekyll (Electric Empire, Book 2) by Viola Carr (4/5 stars)
Reading Level: Adult
Genre: Steampunk
Length: 464 pages
Publisher: Harper Voyager
Release Date: October 27, 2015
ISBN-13: 978-0062363107
Stand Alone or Series: 2nd book in the Electric Empire series
Source: Gift
Rating: 4/5 stars
This is the second book in the Electric Empire series by Viola Carr. This was a well done continuation of this extension of the Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde story. I enjoyed the mystery, the steampunk elements, and the references to classical literature throughout.
Dr. Eliza Jekyll has established a name for herself in the male dominated field of forensic science. However, some of the leading males in the field are still belittling her contributions. Then Remy Lafayette asks for Eliza’s help on solving what is becoming known as the Pentacle Killer murders. Eliza is excited to have the chance to prove herself on another case, but also leery of being involved on a case that involves working with Remy too closely. Remy knows many of Eliza’s dangerous secrets and their attraction to each other doesn’t make things any easier.
There are lots of fun steampunk elements, mystery, action, and some romance here. I enjoyed the characters and the mystery a lot and continue to enjoy the theme of good vs evil within one’s own personality.
The book has a very Sherlock Holmes feel to it with some paranormal elements woven in. This book brings in the whole Dorian Grey type of storyline in addition to continuing some of the Sweeney Todd storyline that started in the first book. I love how all these different pieces of classic Victorian literature are woven in the story.
The whole book has an underlying theme of people trying to separate the dark in their personalities out from the light. It’s an interesting theme and one that is explored well in this book.
The story is tied up nicely and I am curious as to whether or not there will be future books in this series.
Overall a well done continuation of this Victorian steampunk series. I enjoyed the mystery, the characters, and all the references to other classic Victorian horror books. I would love to read more books in this series and would recommend to fans of Sherlock Holmes style mysteries and steampunk.
This book goes towards the following reading challenges:
– You Read How Many Books? Reading Challenge
– Mount TBR Reading Challenge
– Pick Your Genre (Steampunk) Reading Challenge
