We are not the cogs. We are the cog makers. And this machine runs because of us.
Asher Auden is a biology prodigy whose work led to an economic boom for his rural hometown but has left him feeling isolated and alone. Callendra Saint is an introvert and the town’s most prolific, yet reluctant, animal trapper. The two are presented with an opportunity of a lifetime when they are accepted into a prestigious university at the heart of the nation’s capital. As they adjust to new surroundings, Callie embraces her independence while Asher’s gifts land him the social acceptance he’s long desired.
But, they aren’t the only new arrivals.
A gas-masked terrorist has begun plaguing the city, poisoning its leaders, and sowing political discord. Equipped with the prowess to develop an antidote, Asher sets out to protect his new friends while enlisting the support of Callie, the only person he can trust. In doing so, he unknowingly ensnares them both in a covert investigation, an ancient society’s conspiracies, and the ambitions of a deadly menace.
A Machine Divine is a young adult steampunk fantasy that explores whether the value of acceptance is worth its cost.
Paul’s imaginative world includes human-like robots, “giant, four-legged creatures” with “an armadillo-like appearance,” and human genetic alterations. The expertly paced action rumbles through the pages as murder and anarchy strike. Asher may be a young genius, but he experiences the same relatable insecurities of many young individuals who find themselves stumbling at the precipice of a new, unfamiliar adventure. Eager to fit in with the cool kids, especially his influential roommate Nico, he brushes off the digs at his humble background and embraces the carefree party lifestyle. Callie prefers solitude and the company of her pet fox, Cloud. The juxtaposition of these two brings humanity to a creative world built on futuristic technology mixed with a dollop of whimsy, but within this magical setting lies a dangerous threat.
Paul hooks readers early and never lets them go as secrets are unearthed and Asher and Callie must combine talents to fight evil. At the core of this thrill ride are thought-provoking questions regarding immortality, death, and the role science plays in both. Mix these themes with a heavy helping of political unrest and Paul concocts an explosive look into corruption, power, and greed. Fans of genre mashups, dark secrets coming to light, and characters worth rooting for will be on board.
Takeaway:: A pulse-racing blend of fantasy, science fiction, action, and relatable young heroes.
Great for fans of: Cindy Pon’s Want, Olivia A. Cole’s A Conspiracy Of Stars.
Production grades
Cover: B
Design and typography: A-
Illustrations: B
Editing: A
Marketing copy: A
