Ink, Iron, and Glass

Elsa is a scriptologist - someone who can write new worlds into existence through special scientific methods. She lives with her mother in a world created entirely through scriptology, until her mother vanishes and Elsa must venture into 19th century Italy to find her. In alternate-history Italy, Elsa joins forces with a group of young scientists and mechanics who are part of a secret organization. Together they work to uncover the truth about her mother's disappearance while navigating political tensions and exploring the boundaries between science and creation. Within a steampunk backdrop of mechanical marvels and written worlds, this novel combines elements of fantasy, historical fiction, and science fiction. The story incorporates real historical figures and scientific concepts while building its own unique system of world-creation magic. The narrative explores themes of identity, the responsibility that comes with power, and the blurred lines between science and art. Through Elsa's journey, the story raises questions about what it means to create and control new realities.

Readers found this steampunk fantasy offers an intriguing premise about scriptology (the ability to write new worlds into existence), but many felt the execution fell short. Likes: - Creative worldbuilding concept - Strong female protagonist with scientific interests - Italian historical setting - Fast pacing in action scenes Dislikes: - Underdeveloped characters - Romance feels forced and rushed - Worldbuilding rules lack clarity - Plot becomes predictable Multiple readers noted the book reads more like a first draft that needed additional development. One reviewer said "the characters feel like sketches rather than fully-realized people." Ratings: Goodreads: 3.6/5 (2,100+ ratings) Amazon: 3.9/5 (80+ ratings) Kirkus Reviews gave it a starred review, while School Library Journal rated it as optional for collections. The companion novel, Mist, Metal, and Ash, received similar ratings and feedback from readers.

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🔖 In this steampunk fantasy novel, "scriptology" allows writers to create and edit entire worlds by writing them into existence - similar to coding a computer program. 🔬 Author Gwendolyn Clare holds a PhD in Mycology (the study of fungi) and frequently incorporates her scientific background into her fiction writing. 🗺️ The book is set in an alternate version of 19th century Italy, featuring real historical figures like Giuseppe Garibaldi alongside its fictional characters. 📚 The novel explores themes of scientific ethics and family loyalty while blending elements of steampunk technology with the Italian Risorgimento period. 🎨 The title "Ink, Iron, and Glass" represents the three main elements of the story: scriptology (ink), mechanika/steampunk elements (iron), and the fragile nature of created worlds (glass).