One-line Summary:

In the steampunk novel “Boneshaker” by Cherie Priest, a determined mother ventures into a dangerous underground city to save her son from the clutches of a deadly gas and encounters a world filled with adventure, mystery, and the resilience of the human spirit.

Setting and Characters:

Set in an alternate version of 19th-century Seattle, “Boneshaker” introduces us to a cast of intriguing characters. Briar Wilkes, a strong-willed and resourceful mother, is determined to rescue her son, Zeke, who unwittingly released a toxic gas known as the “Blight” that turned parts of the city into a nightmarish underground labyrinth. Leviticus Blue, Briar’s late husband, is blamed for the disaster and becomes a legendary figure in the city’s history. The story also features a motley crew of survivors, including the enigmatic Dr. Minnericht, a masked figure who rules over the underground city.

The Blight and the Underground City:

The Blight is a deadly gas that alters the minds and bodies of those who inhale it, turning them into zombie-like creatures known as “rotters.” The gas is contained within the underground city, where survivors have formed a new society. This subterranean world is filled with danger, from the Blight itself to the treacherous tunnels and the rotters that lurk within. The city is a maze of makeshift structures, steam-powered machines, and hidden secrets, creating a unique and atmospheric setting.

A Mother’s Determination:

Driven by her love for Zeke, Briar embarks on a perilous journey into the underground city, determined to find her son and bring him back to safety. Along the way, she faces numerous obstacles and encounters both allies and enemies. Briar’s determination and resilience are tested as she navigates the treacherous tunnels, battles rotters, and unravels the truth behind her husband’s actions. Her unwavering love for her son serves as a powerful motivation, showcasing the strength of a mother’s bond.

Key Takeaways:

• The power of a mother’s love: Briar’s unwavering determination to save her son highlights the incredible strength and resilience of a mother’s love.
• The consequences of actions: Leviticus Blue’s invention of the Boneshaker machine and the subsequent release of the Blight demonstrate the far-reaching consequences of one person’s actions.
• The resilience of the human spirit: Despite the bleak and dangerous circumstances, the characters in “Boneshaker” demonstrate resilience and adaptability as they navigate the challenges of the underground city.

“She was a mother, and mothers always find a way to help their children.” – Cherie Priest, Boneshaker

In “Boneshaker,” Cherie Priest weaves a captivating tale of adventure, danger, and the enduring strength of the human spirit. Through the eyes of Briar Wilkes, readers are immersed in a steampunk world filled with mystery, suspense, and the unbreakable bond between a mother and her child. The novel explores themes of love, sacrifice, and the consequences of one’s actions, all set against the backdrop of an underground city teeming with danger and secrets. With its vivid world-building and compelling characters, “Boneshaker” is a thrilling and immersive read that will leave readers eagerly turning the pages.