Clockwork Pirate Novel

Novel: Clockwork Pirate

Author: Lyn Gala

Genres: Steampunk, Adventure, Romance

Released: 2015

Part of Book Series: Standalone

Summary: Alex hid his unnatural attraction to men for many years. That changes when the pirate Beche takes Alex after capturing his ship. At first Alex believes his fate is death and the only question a matter of how he might die. However, the longer he is on the ship, the more he realizes that Beche hates the world because it is unfair in ways Alex never understood. As Alex begins to respect this strong, independent man, Alex’s dormant desires begin to reassert themselves.

Beche hates the titled classes and their government enforcers. They might have outlawed slavery on paper, but they never came to the islands to free him or his family. Since his skin is black, society has little respect for him. Beche expects no more of this latest captive, but soon Beche begins to realize that Alex is a naïve and beautiful man who values family and struggles with his own place in society. That poses an even larger problem because Beche does not want to send Alex back to a world that will mistreat him, but he has no place for a lord on a ship full of pirates.

Post’s Author Opinion:
Note: This is a personal opinion, it does not reflect YaoiOtaku’s official position towards the novel.

This is my first steampunk novel ever and I must say it was a really interesting read. I felt a bit overwhelmed at first, but soon I got to really enjoy it, the contraptions and everything that went on. At the same time I must admit that I am glad this is not my first Lyn Gala novel, I might have been put off, but since it is the second, now I know that Lyn Gala is a versatile author and I look forward to discovering what else is there.

In this novel I didn’t like any character more than the other, I liked all of them equally. Well, with a few obvious exceptions, but all the important characters are well set in the liked area. I liked how Lyn Gala managed to make them all so distinct and how nicely the contradictory personalities of Alex and Beche were displayed.

One thing, and the only one, I found odd was the way the time setting was introduced. It felt so weird to me and also kind of unnecessary. The writing is so masterful it would have been obvious rather quick what year the plot was set in. And speaking of the writing, I am in awe. Although I only read one more novel by Lyn Gala before, the difference is obvious and that is a fantastic skill!

Moving along, the novel is simply great. The plot flows smoothly, I loved the whole of pirate life, Alex’s capture and everything that followed. I especially liked that there is no sugar coating, piracy is not wrapped in something shiny and soft, it is delivered bluntly. Whatever you think piracy is about, you get it.

I also liked a lot Alex and Beche’s conversations. (Speaking of Beche, he can be such an idiot, he’s great) At some point I was almost pissed at Beche, but as I read further I came to understand where he was coming from and everything made perfect sense. This being pretty much a new territory to me, I might have been a bit jumpy at times, but I was thoroughly put back into my place.

The novel rises some very serious issues too, such as slavery and the position of woman in society, as well as religion. This was hardly unexpected given the setting, but I liked how the author dealt with them. It made me wonder about some things too and that’s always a big plus from me.

Alex’s first meeting with pleasure was delightful. It was so well written and I liked Alex’s reactions so much. He, but Beche as well, have so much to learn and explore, I really love that for them. It’s going to be such an interesting journey, it makes me all giddy.

What else is there to say?
Pirates? Check.
Steampunk? Check.
Two clashing main characters? Check.
Awesome supporting characters? Check.
Good plot? Check.
All that’s left is giving it a try.

What’s your opinion on Clockwork Pirate novel? Please let us know in the comments below.