Acorn: A steampunk adventure novella with romance, danger, and flying machines

Book excerpt: Flying and love. Which poses the greater risk? To outsiders, Lewis Protheroe is merely private secretary to Lady Claire and Sir Andrew Malvern, the most famous inventors in steampunk London. But to insiders, Lewis is a financial wizard and the owner of the Gaius Club, where the hottest bets this month are on the races at the Kennington Oval. Lewis and Snouts can’t resist the chance to go. The races are illegal, but the purse is large enough to attract daring inventors of personal flying machines from all over the country. As long as they don’t get caught… Lady Philomena Noakes has been driven to the Oval by pride and despair. Women are not allowed to compete, of course, but women aren’t allowed to do very much in a Blood family, except be married off to the highest bidder. If she can just fool everyone long enough to show what she can do with her dilapidated flying machine, winning the purse could change everything. And perhaps two lonely people might discover that flying and love are the two things in the world that pose the greatest risk—and the greatest happiness. “This is one of those books you can't help but cheer for. The plot is exciting, the challenges are difficult, and the stakes could not be higher. It's a quick read, and will keep you on the edge of your seat.” —Lori Alden Holuta, author of the Brassbright Chronicles Acorn is the fifth novella that follows book 12 of the Magnificent Devices steampunk series. These short reads capture secondary characters about whom readers have wanted more. Though they can be read as standalones, there are threads of romance, friendship, and family running through them all. No strong language, just a very proper kiss or two and a satisfying solution. If you like books by Gail Carriger, Lindsay Buroker, or Nancy Warren, you’re in the right place. Enjoy!