The Clockwork Scarab

In an alternate Victorian London powered by steam technology, Mina Holmes (niece of Sherlock) and Evaline Stoker (sister of Bram) are recruited by Irene Adler to investigate the mysterious deaths of young society women. The two teenage detectives must work together despite their contrasting personalities and methods. The investigation leads them through London's high society gatherings and dangerous underground tunnels, where they encounter Egyptian artifacts, suspicious characters, and inexplicable technology. Their partnership is further complicated by the presence of two potential romantic interests and the pressure of living up to their famous family names. The first installment in this series blends elements of steampunk, mystery, supernatural adventure and romance while exploring themes of female empowerment and identity. The story raises questions about destiny versus choice, and the weight of family legacy.

Readers note this Victorian steampunk mystery offers an interesting premise by combining Stoker's and Holmes' nieces as protagonists, but many feel the execution falls short. Readers appreciated: - The detailed Victorian London atmosphere - Creative steampunk technology elements - Strong female leads who reject traditional gender roles - The friendship between the two main characters Common criticisms: - Love triangle subplot feels forced and distracting - Time travel elements seem underdeveloped - Plot moves slowly with too much focus on romance - Mystery aspects are predictable As one reader stated: "Great concept but gets bogged down in unnecessary romantic drama rather than focusing on the detective work." Ratings: Goodreads: 3.6/5 (6,800+ ratings) Amazon: 3.9/5 (120+ ratings) Barnes & Noble: 3.8/5 (90+ ratings) Multiple reviews suggest the book works better as a teen romance novel than a mystery, despite its marketing as a detective story.

Etiquette & Espionage by Gail Carriger The blend of Victorian-era supernatural creatures, steampunk gadgets, and two young women training at a spy school mirrors the adventurous tone of The Clockwork Scarab.

The Dark Days Club by Alison Goodman A female protagonist in Victorian London discovers supernatural powers and battles dark forces while navigating high society obligations.

These Vicious Masks by Tarun Shanker, Kelly Zekas A Victorian-era mystery follows a young woman with healing powers who searches for her missing sister among London's supernatural society.

Stalking Jack the Ripper by Kerri Maniscalco A young woman defies Victorian social expectations to solve murders alongside a mysterious apprentice in gothic London.

The Friday Society by Adrienne Kress Three female assistants to powerful men in steam-powered London join forces to solve murders and fight crime.

🔍 The book blends multiple genres, combining steampunk, mystery, supernatural elements, and alternative history in Victorian London. ⚡ Colleen Gleason created a unique twist by making her protagonists the fictional nieces of two famous literary figures: Bram Stoker and Sherlock Holmes. 🦟 The scarab beetle featured in the story holds special significance in Egyptian mythology as a symbol of rebirth and transformation. 🎭 The author was inspired to write this YA series after wondering what it would be like if famous Victorian-era characters had crime-solving relatives who worked together. ⚙️ The steampunk elements in the novel include both real Victorian inventions and imaginative creations like steam-powered computers, reflecting an alternate timeline where electricity was never adopted.