Steampunk Novels: Finding the Best Reads

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In summary, the speakers discussed their interest in steampunk and related genres. The first speaker enjoyed China Mieville's writing style and characters in Perdido Street Station, but found it to be a blend of genres. They also mentioned trying The Difference Engine and asking for recommendations for steampunk novels. The second speaker also tried The Difference Engine but enjoyed Mieville's Kraken more, which is not steampunk. They also enjoyed R. Appleton's Prehistoric Clock, which combines steampunk and dinosaurs. The third speaker also enjoyed Mieville's writing but mentioned wanting to read Moby Dick before diving into his book Railsea. They also discussed the unexpected combination of steampunk and dinosaurs in Appleton
  • #1
nobahar
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Hello!
I have started to take an interest in steampunk and related genres. I read China Mieville's Perdido Street Station and enjoyed his writing style and some of the ideas and imaginative characters. However, it wasn't "pure" steampunk. I tried The difference Engine but it didn't provide the setting clearly enough from the outset. It is supposed to be a good read so I will try again, but can anyone suggest any good steampunk novels?
 
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  • #2
I too tried The Difference Engine but have yet to finish it.

I REALLY enjoyed Mieville's Kraken, though it's not Steampunk. It was WAY off my usual path. Not a fantasy reader.

I enjoyed R. Appleton's Prehistoric Clock. Steampunk and dinosaurs!
 
  • #3
Yeah Mieville seems to be a blend of different genres. At least that is what I got from Perdido street station. I really enjoyed some of the ideas and characters, especially the Weaver, which I think he done really well. I was planning to read Railsea but apparently it riffs off of Moby Dick and so it would make more sense to read that first, I guess, to appreciate it more.
Steampunkb and dinosaurs sounds like the most random combination of ideas! I was thinking "classic" steampunk with the Victorian setting.
 
  • #4
nobahar said:
Steampunkb and dinosaurs sounds like the most random combination of ideas! I was thinking "classic" steampunk with the Victorian setting.
Oh, they're Victorian all right. They just ... er ... should have never made that left toin at Alberkiokie.
 

1. What is a steampunk novel?

A steampunk novel is a sub-genre of science fiction or fantasy literature that is set in a fictional 19th-century Victorian era or alternate history, where steam power is the main source of technology. These novels often feature advanced steam-powered machinery, alternate versions of history, and elements of science fiction and fantasy.

2. What makes a steampunk novel unique?

Steampunk novels are unique because they blend elements of science fiction, fantasy, and historical fiction in a Victorian-era setting. They often feature advanced technology powered by steam, as well as themes of adventure, exploration, and rebellion against societal norms.

3. What are some popular examples of steampunk novels?

Some popular examples of steampunk novels include "The Difference Engine" by William Gibson and Bruce Sterling, "Soulless" by Gail Carriger, and "Leviathan" by Scott Westerfeld. Other notable steampunk novels include "Boneshaker" by Cherie Priest and "Perdido Street Station" by China Miéville.

4. What should I look for in a good steampunk novel?

A good steampunk novel should have a well-developed and immersive world, interesting and complex characters, and a compelling plot that explores themes of technology, society, and adventure. It should also have elements of both science fiction and fantasy, as well as a strong sense of Victorian-era aesthetics and steampunk technology.

5. Are there any recommended reading lists for steampunk novels?

Yes, there are many recommended reading lists available for steampunk novels. Some popular ones include the Goodreads list "Best Steampunk Books" and the Barnes and Noble list "Top 25 Steampunk Novels of All Time". There are also many websites and blogs dedicated to reviewing and recommending steampunk novels, such as Steampunkary and Steampunk Scholar.

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