Lumière (The Illumination Paradox, #1)

by Jacqueline Garlick

[Charli G.]

Lumiere is a novel that might just be the ticket to getting you into steampunk if you aren't already. Set in the 1890s, this book makes use of fantastic inventions and machines and to me, just has a steampunk feel to it. I'm not a big fan of steampunk but I will say I very much enjoyed this book.

While the book starts off a bit on the slow side, it picks up around Part 2 (there are 55 chapters in 4 parts). You have to read this story to understand. The story centers around a girl's search for her father's machine that she believes will stop her seizures from happening if she uses the machine enough. But when she gets too close, all hell breaks loose.

I like Eyelet, the main character in the book. She's sassy, tenacious, and yet she's also terrified of being declared Mad. Urlick is a fun character as well, just as odd as Eyelet but in a different way. And the merry band of misfits that resides at Urlick's compound are wonderful as well! Such odd characters yet they fit right in to the scheme of things.

Lumiere is the first book in the Illumination Paradox series and it won't be your last. You'll want to start Noir (the second book) as soon as you finish Lumiere. I know I did!

**I received this book for free from NetGalley in exchange for my honest opinion. No other compensation was received and all opinions are my own.**