Best Steampunk Books December 2024

The Bands of Mourning

Sanderson’s latest Mistborn adventure whisks readers back to the world of Scadrial, where allomantic powers and political intrigue collide. Wax and Wayne, our unlikely heroes, embark on a perilous quest to uncover the mythical Bands of Mourning. As they navigate treacherous landscapes and face formidable foes, the duo’s witty banter and deep friendship shine through. Sanderson’s masterful worldbuilding and intricate magic system kept me turning pages late into the night, eager to unravel the mysteries alongside the characters. A thrilling ride for fantasy lovers and newcomers alike.

Senlin Ascends

Thomas Senlin, a small-town schoolteacher, embarks on a honeymoon adventure to the Tower of Babel, only to lose his wife in the teeming crowds. Determined to find her, he begins a perilous ascent through the Tower’s bizarre and treacherous ringdoms. As he climbs, Senlin unravels the Tower’s mysteries, confronting danger, deceit, and his own naivety. This steampunk-infused journey blends whimsy and darkness, challenging Senlin to evolve from a timid academic into a cunning survivor in a world where nothing is as it seems.

Shadows of Self

Shadows of Self plunges readers back into the gritty, mist-shrouded world of Scadrial. Waxium Ladrian, lawman turned reluctant nobleman, grapples with his dual identity as he investigates a series of mysterious murders. Sanderson’s masterful blend of fantasy and detective noir keeps you guessing until the very end. I found myself completely absorbed, staying up way too late just to unravel one more clue. The witty banter between Wax and Wayne provides welcome moments of levity amidst the mounting tension. A thrilling ride that left me eager for more.

The Alloy of Law

Wax Ladrian, a lawman from the untamed Roughs, returns to the bustling city of Elendel after twenty years away. Haunted by his past, he reluctantly takes up his uncle’s noble title and finds himself thrust into a world of political intrigue and technological marvels. As he grapples with his new responsibilities, a string of mysterious robberies threatens the city’s stability. Wax must dust off his guns and team up with his eccentric friend Wayne to uncover a conspiracy that could shake the very foundations of their society. Sanderson’s blend of Wild West grit and steampunk ingenuity creates a thrilling adventure that kept me up way too late.

Mistborn: The Final Empire

In a world shrouded in ash, where the immortal Lord Ruler reigns supreme, a young street thief named Vin discovers she possesses extraordinary magical abilities. Recruited by a charismatic rebel leader, she joins a daring plot to overthrow the empire. As Vin hones her powers and uncovers dark secrets, she must confront her own doubts and the terrifying truth about the Lord Ruler’s origins. Sanderson’s masterful blend of intricate magic systems, political intrigue, and heart-pounding action will keep you riveted until the very last page.

Going Postal

Moist von Lipwig, a charming con artist, finds himself at a crossroads when he’s offered a chance at redemption: revive Ankh-Morpork’s defunct postal service or face the gallows. With a ragtag team of misfits and a stubborn golem, Moist tackles the impossible task. As he unravels centuries-old mysteries and battles corporate rivals, he discovers an unexpected passion for stamps and second chances. Pratchett’s wit shines through in this delightful tale of bureaucracy, redemption, and the power of the written word.

The Infernal Devices Series

Descend into a world of Victorian London where magic and mystery intertwine. Cassandra Clare’s “The Infernal Devices” series follows Tessa Gray, a young woman with a hidden power, as she navigates a secret society of demon-hunters. With clockwork creatures lurking in the shadows and a love triangle that spans lifetimes, this gripping trilogy blends steampunk elements with supernatural intrigue. I was captivated by the rich historical details and found myself staying up late, unable to put the books down. Clare’s masterful storytelling left me yearning for more of this enchanting world.

The Lunar Chronicles

Cinder, a gifted mechanic, harbors a secret that could topple Earth’s fragile peace. As a deadly plague ravages the population, she becomes entangled with the charming Prince Kai. Battling prejudice and a wicked queen, Cinder must uncover her mysterious past to save her world. Meyer’s masterful reimagining of classic fairy tales blends sci-fi and fantasy, creating a thrilling adventure that kept me up all night. The characters are so vivid, I felt like I was right there with them, fighting for their future.

Mistborn Trilogy

In a world where ash falls from the sky and mist dominates the night, an evil force reigns. A young street urchin discovers she possesses extraordinary magical powers, thrusting her into a dangerous quest to overthrow the Dark Lord. Sanderson’s masterful worldbuilding and intricate magic system captivate, while his flawed, relatable characters grapple with loyalty, sacrifice, and the weight of destiny. I couldn’t put it down, staying up far too late to unravel the mysteries. A thrilling epic that will leave you craving more.

The Amber Spyglass

Lyra and Will’s epic journey reaches its thrilling conclusion in “The Amber Spyglass.” Pullman weaves a tale of parallel worlds, dark matter, and the nature of consciousness with breathtaking skill. I was captivated by the complex themes of religion and free will, and found myself emotionally invested in the characters’ fates. The bittersweet ending left me pondering long after I’d turned the final page. A masterful blend of fantasy and philosophy that lingers in the mind.