Boneshaker Summary of Cherie Priest's Book

Book Summary: Boneshaker by Cherie Priest

Cherie Priest's Boneshaker, published in 2009, is a captivating blend of Steampunk, Fantasy, and Science Fiction. Set in an alternate version of Civil War-era America, the story follows the aftermath of a disastrous invention gone awry that unleashes a deadly gas and creates a city overrun by zombies. The book is the first installment in The Clockwork Century series, introducing readers to a thrilling and dangerous world full of air pirates, undead creatures, and characters fighting for survival and redemption.

Characters

• Zombies: The undead inhabitants of the walled city created by the Bone-Shaking Drill Engine's mishap.
• Croggon Beauregard Hainey: Also known as Leviticus Blue, the inventor of the Bone-Shaking Drill Engine that caused the disaster in Seattle.
• Hale Quarter: A supporting character who aids Briar Wilkes in her quest.
• Joe Foster: Another character who assists Briar in navigating the dangerous city.
• Alastair Osterude: A key figure in the story who plays a significant role in the events that unfold.
• Andan Cly: An air pirate who becomes entangled in Briar's journey to save her son.
• Rector Sherman: A mysterious figure with secrets of his own.
• Lucy O'Gunning: Part of the cast of characters who adds depth to the narrative.
• Briar Wilkes: The protagonist of the story and Blue's widow who must save her son Ezekiel from the dangers of the walled city.
• Ezekiel (Zeke) Wilkes: Briar's teenage son who goes on a perilous mission that puts him in danger.
• Jerimiah Swakhammer: A character who plays a role in Ezekiel's mission and the overall plot of the book.

Detailed Summary

In the early days of the Civil War, Leviticus Blue, under pressure from Russian prospectors, creates the Bone-Shaking Drill Engine to mine for gold in Alaska. However, the machine malfunctions, causing chaos and releasing a deadly gas that turns people into zombies. Sixteen years later, Briar Wilkes, Blue's widow, lives outside the walled city created to contain the toxic gas and undead. When her son Ezekiel ventures into the city on a dangerous mission, Briar must follow him to ensure his safety and uncover the truth behind his actions.

Analysis

Boneshaker is a fast-paced and immersive novel that combines elements of steampunk, fantasy, and science fiction to create a unique and engaging story. The alternate history setting, with its steampunk technology and undead threats, adds depth and intrigue to the narrative. The characters are well-developed and relatable, each with their own motivations and struggles that drive the plot forward.

The world-building in Boneshaker is intricate and detailed, painting a vivid picture of a city overrun by zombies and populated by air pirates, criminals, and refugees. The tension and suspense are palpable as Briar and Ezekiel navigate the dangers of the walled city, facing numerous challenges and obstacles along the way. The story explores themes of redemption, sacrifice, and the resilience of the human spirit in the face of adversity.

Overall, Boneshaker is a thrilling and captivating read that will appeal to fans of steampunk, fantasy, and science fiction alike. Cherie Priest's storytelling is compelling and immersive, drawing readers into a world filled with danger, mystery, and adventure.

Final thoughts

If you enjoy a blend of steampunk, fantasy, and science fiction with a captivating storyline and rich world-building, Boneshaker by Cherie Priest is a must-read. The first installment in The Clockwork Century series sets the stage for a thrilling and compelling saga that will keep you on the edge of your seat until the very end. Purchase the complete book to delve deeper into the adventures of Briar Wilkes and her son Ezekiel, or listen to the audiobook for an immersive experience that will transport you to a world unlike any other. Happy reading!

9780765318411 (ISBN10: 0765318415)