The Train (The Train, #1) by Cari Z.

Calling this short novella cute is kinda strange considering the mystery and murder happening on this train in only a 3 days ride, yet when I closed my kindle with a smile at the very end, that's what I thought. I LOVED it, really enjoyed it though I have to say I DID struggle with the language at first (English isn't my mother tongue and I don't have a lot of experience with Steampunk).

Anton Seiber is a student of thaumaturgy (basically magic), on his way to the University of Zurich to continue his studies. It's IMPERATIVE that he arrives on time for his internship but it doesn't seem likely since his destined train was just switched to a royal ride of one of the Emperor's cousins on his way to get married. Not sure what to do he knows he HAS to be on this train no matter what so with a strange kind of occurrence he finds himself impersonating one of the guests.



It doesn't take long for investigator to the Emperor Camille Lumiere to realize the man calling himself Consul Hasler is an impostor.. But as he speaks with Anton and he in turn confesses his actions, Lumiere realizes Anton can actually be an asset in the current state of affairs. While he believes the train will get to it's destination in 3 days he doesn't believe ALL passengers will.. The first morning, starting of with a scream reveals the first victim. Together they resolve the matter with and without Anton's magic but with wit from both of them for sure.

While this isn't truly a romance novella, there's only a kiss shared between Anton and Lumiere it DOES feel like the beginning of one. I enjoyed seeing these two very different men get closer to each other. Their situation actually reminded me of something from my previous read - A Blinded Mind (not saying more not to spoiler). Looking forward to delving into "The Tower" which is a prequel published in chapters in Cari's blog as this one was originally (now available as a free downloadable file though the button bellow).

I say, it you have a bit of a free time you should DEFINITELY give it a go.

Final note I HAD to add. I couldn't ignore the fact "Lumiere" is also the name of the lantern in Beauty and The Beast. It made me laugh at the beginning thinking about it. As I finished and went to sleep guess what I dreamed about? Hehe an adaptation to the movie in German?! What's up brain? The human mind.. a mystery..

Note - Anton and Camille's story continues in "The Tower" - Hurray!

Rating: ★★★★½

Free Read

100 pages

Read on: 13 December 2018