A charming middle-grade series perfect for lovers of The Golden Compass, Inkheart, and A Wrinkle in Time, solely for the trope of "young girl's father is kidnapped/disappeared and must uncover a range of secrets and discoveries in order to get him back." Odd how often that one comes up in children's fantasy, but hey I'm not complaining. The world lends itself easily to adventure, being a steampunk-inspired setting full of automotons, airships, and other mechanical marvels.

Though I enjoyed this book, I wasn't able to loose myself in it. It lacks a certain personality, for lack of a better word and it takes a long time for all of our characters to meet and start working together. There wasn't anyone I was particularly drawn to, but I hope that next installments will provide a little more character development and exploration of the world.