The Engineer’s Apprentice

by J.R. Martin

Genre: Science Fiction / Steampunk

Print Length: 288 pages

Two inventors chase their fate in an alternate Victorian-era Texas where magic and technology are competing sources of power.

In The Engineer’s Apprentice, the first installment of an exciting planned series, two inventors embark on a fate-chasing journey in an alternate Victorian-era Texas where magic and technology vie for power. Set in a steam-powered United States in 1893, this novel presents a unique twist on history, where indigenous nations have erected a magical barrier to halt the westward expansion of European settlement.

Within this version of Texas, steam engineering reigns as a major power source, shaping everyday life and presenting lucrative opportunities. Annie Sakdavong, the only woman in her profession and the daughter of immigrants from Siam (now Thailand), chooses steam engineering as her escape from the future her parents envision for her as a wife and bodyguard. As Annie secures an apprenticeship with Issa Obasi, a skilled engineer who migrated to Texas to pursue his work, their groundbreaking designs are stolen by a man possessing extraordinary powers and backed by a mysterious benefactor. Annie and Issa must join forces, track down the culprits, and foil their nefarious plans.

Narrated from Annie’s perspective, readers are privy to her reactions, emotions, and the unfolding plot. Driven by a desire for freedom and the ability to shape her own destiny, Annie is not afraid to fight for what she believes in. With a quick temper and a wry sense of humor, Annie challenges societal expectations of Victorian-era women, blending her adeptness as a fighter with her pursuit of technological achievement.

The plot of The Engineer’s Apprentice maintains a steady pace, skillfully balancing plot development, action, and character growth. While catering to steampunk enthusiasts with its retro-futuristic inventions, the story also incorporates runic magic, detective work, captivating fight sequences, and introspective moments as Annie and Issa confront their pasts and strive for a better future.

Readers should note that the novel may push the boundaries of anachronisms, particularly in its portrayal of attitudes toward non-white communities and advancements in automaton technology. While some may raise an eyebrow, others will view these elements as necessary for the story’s unique narrative. The Engineer’s Apprentice is an excellent choice for readers who delight in exploring Victorian-inspired worlds, innovative blends of magic and steam power, and alternate histories of the United States.

Overall, The Engineer’s Apprentice offers a thrilling adventure set in the Old West, albeit one that diverges significantly from the history books. Through its fusion of magic and technology, the novel explores the dichotomy between two sources of power, seamlessly merging elements of fantasy and science fiction. Ultimately, it delves into themes of choices, self-determination, and the strength of will required to shape one’s own future.