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Cherie Priest

Boneshaker

Part of "The Clockwork Century" series

In the sprawling, imaginative world of Cherie Priest’s “Boneshaker," readers are transported to an alternate history of the United States, where the Civil War is still raging and the city of Seattle has been plunged into chaos by a massive digging machine called the Boneshaker. The story centers around Briar Wilkes, the wife of the man who built the Boneshaker, and their teenage son Ezekiel, who is determined to clear his father’s name. Sixteen years after the Boneshaker’s disastrous first run, which left the city in ruins and its inhabitants turned into zombie-like “rotters,” Briar and Ezekiel venture into the heart of the danger zone in search of answers and a way to save the city. Priest’s writing is rich and atmospheric, bringing to life a gritty, steampunk-inspired version of Seattle filled with airships, intricate machinery, and all manner of clockwork contraptions. The characters are well-developed and relatable, with Briar in particular standing out as a strong, capable heroine who must confront her own past as she battles the undead and searches for the truth about her husband. The pacing of the novel is fast and engaging, with plenty of action and suspense to keep readers on the edge of their seats. At the same time, “Boneshaker” also offers a thoughtful exploration of themes such as redemption, family, and the consequences of scientific progress. Overall, “Boneshaker” is a thrilling and imaginative adventure that will appeal to fans of steampunk, historical fiction, and horror alike. Its richly detailed world-building, compelling characters, and gripping plot make it a standout addition to the genre and a must-read for anyone looking for a fresh take on alternate history.