this was fun. not the romp i was hoping for and maybe a kidnapping or two more than felt strictly necessary, but still fun. ( )

4.5* ( )

My gosh the way the book deals with abuse made me CRY. It didn't matter that there were plot holes, it didn't matter that the author really needed to check off every possible disadvantage/disability in the world, I still cried like a baby every time Monty's trauma came up. My gosh, Mackenzie Lee handled that topic so well. I'm astounded. ( )

A really delightful romp of a book; I came to love all the main characters so much! It's a very vibrant story that, although a bit unevenly paced in the first half, will absolutely be enjoyed by fans of witty historical YA fiction. The plotline that blended alchemy/magic and science felt a bit watery to me, and I think it could have been stronger in that respect, but I nonetheless look forwards to reading the sequel!
(Also, on a totally personal note: the descriptions of Venice made me so wistful! I've been fortunate enough to travel there once for a few days and reading about the city in this book made me want to go back so badly!! ( )

Honestly I loved it, it's so cute and I love the characters and the journey they go through. Monty is frustrating at first, but has a pretty solid amount of character growth by the end, still learning, but still having learned a lot in the time this adventure took place. I'm here for Monty and Percy, and I'm especially here for Dr. Pirate Felicity and her ace representation! ( )