Book review - Mechanica

Title: Mechanica
Author: Betsy Cornwell
Genre: fantasy
Similar books: A Court of Thorns and Roses by Sarah Maas
                     Just Ella by Margaret Peterson Haddix
Rating:

An interesting twist on a familiar tale

Summary: Since her father's death, Nicolette has essentially been a servant to her stepmother and stepsisters. When she discovers her mother's secret workshop her world opens up and for the first time a future apart from the steps seems possible. With the help of some mechanical creatures (a fusion of clockworks and magic created by her mother years ago) Nicolette begins to create devices that may be the key to her independence. If only she can invent something amazing and sneak out in time for the royal exposition. All she wants is a little shop and a life of her own. Is it possible that she will discover more?

My opinion: A lot of people are comparing this book to Marissa Meyer's Cinder but the two books really couldn't be more different. Cinder is solidly sci-fi. Mechanica is high fantasy. Nicolette is not the Cinderella we all know. she may be a dreamer but she's no soft girl waiting to be rescued. She's had a hard life which has left her somewhat rough around the edges, angry and closed off. While there is a "love at first sight" element, Cornwell also suggests that such "love" is likely simple infatuation. That real love takes time. Mechanica is a slower, contemplative read with technical and political elements. That slower pace will not appeal to everyone.

More information: Mechanica releases August 25.
Advanced Reader Copy provided by NetGalley.