Bronze Gods (Apparatus Infernum #1) by A. A. Aguirre

Hy Breasil is grimmer than it used to be. 

Before the Architect closed the door, there were regular crossings, and a great war decimated both humans and Ferishers. The native fae who refused to treat with the invaders faded; their bodies withered and died, stranding them as hungry, angry spirits that haunt the countryside. 

That means there’s always trouble brewing in Dorstaad. 

Janus Mikani and Celeste Ritsuko work for the Criminal Investigation Department, keeping citizens safe from things that go bump in the night. He’s a hardboiled cynic with an uncanny sixth sense; she’s determined to justify her promotion as the first female detective in her division. Together, they’re trying to keep a black tide from drowning the city. 

But when the second body surfaces, murdered with the same type of infernal device, the entire CID must face the truth. There’s a madman on the loose, twining magic and blood… and only Mikani and Ritsuko can unravel the intricate, lethal conspiracy before the Royale killer completes his macabre plan, unleashing old, forbidden magic on an unsuspecting populace. If the maniac succeeds, it could mean the end of everything…

This book is steampunk but does not go overboard with the mechanicals. I know that some people either look for those things or are wary. In this world it has more the "flavor" of steampunk and fantasy but still comes off more a UF mystery. Let me just say, it is a very interesting world indeed!

In this book Mikani and Ritsuko are our two main inspectors in which we follow this murder mystery. They are tasked with finding out who and why rather quickly even when there seems to be no road in which to follow. Both are good at relying on each other and together they are a formidable force. In other words, very complimentary. So, when there was a hint of romance between the two, I admit I was not in favor of the development. In fact, I was wishing the opposite. However, since this was anything but insta-love, things slowly developed between the two of them. I then found myself rooting for the relationship.

Mystery lovers will enjoy this tale I think the most. The way things were sussed out and the way they applied their minds together was quite interesting. I really enjoyed the ride trying to help them figure out who was killing and why. In the end, I was convinced I was right, but was lead expertly to the wrong conclusion. In fact one I had suspected and dismissed played a bigger role than I thought and it all ended up making sense.

I think my only complaint was the POV shifts. It was a bit abrupt between Mikani and Ritsuko at times, but not so much I couldn't easily figure out who was who. What I did enjoy the most were the characters. All well drawn out including the secondary characters. In fact, I'm quite curious about Theron. He has become a fascinating character to me.

I give this book 4 stars. I recommend it to those that like steampunk, fantasy, UF and especially mystery books. Yea, it's a fun ride for all. :D

I received this eARC from the author and no compensation for my review was given.

Bloggy note:

Come back Monday (6th) for a author blog post and giveaway!

Tour schedule:

April 30th The Nocturnal Library

May 1st Heidi @ Rainy Day Ramblings

May 2nd Jenny @ Supernatural Snark

May 3rd Mary @ Book Swarm

May 6th Melissa @ Books and Things

May 7th Kimberly @ Caffeinated Book Reviewer