You'll love this one...!! A book club & more discussion

Cherie, Delitealex, and I plan to read The Clockwork Scarab by Colleen Gleason for the geocache scarab task beginning April 12. Please feel free to join in our discussion!



Evaline Stoker and Mina Holmes never meant to get into the family business. But when you’re the sister of Bram and the niece of Sherlock, vampire hunting and mystery solving are in your blood. And when two society girls go missing, there’s no one more qualified to investigate.

Now fierce Evaline and logical Mina must resolve their rivalry, navigate the advances of not just one but three mysterious gentlemen, and solve murder with only one clue: a strange Egyptian scarab. The stakes are high. If Stoker and Holmes don’t unravel why the belles of London society are in such danger, they’ll become the next victims.

This looks interesting. I hope you will post a reminder in early April, so that I don't totally forget about it.

This one is on my list. I have marked my calendar!

Sure, I can do that Casceil. I'll put it in my calendar. :)

I'll join you.

I have this lined up for the geocache challenge so I will join you.

I'd like to join in too.

I was between books and able to download this book from my library so I started reading it. It will expire on April 11 - hopefully I will be able to renew it. The chapters go back and forth between the two main characters and have a title, but no numbers, not even a table of contents in my ebook. It is going to be hard to track for spoilers. It is pretty YA. The name dropping is amusing but I cannot quite picture the steampunk London as it is described. The young girls are...young and rather petty. I am at 44.3% The ebook indicates "Book Index 19" page 1 of 18."Miss Stoker Goes Hunting". Hmmm. ahhh. My ebook tracking IS reporting chapters as Book Index #xx. I will go back and post some spoilers then.

Oh, Cherie! lol

I have it from the library already too, but I just started another book to fill in the time. Scarab is just sitting on my nightstand staring at me! I've been having a difficult time not picking it up.

I'm going to finish the book I already started first and hold off on this one until April 12.

Looks like you're going through it quickly. Are you enjoying it, even though it is young?

Yes, I am enjoying it, Kristie. It is a very quick read. I have to admit to rolling my eyes several times. So far it is amusing me, especially after the dry, dry dusty dinosaur book I just finished but I am not sure I can swallow all of it.

What I am more upset about is the way the Overdrive app is managing the ebook. I cannot scroll back to a chapter without turning each page. I will have to add bookmarks to the beginning of each chapter to move back and forth. What a pain! Do you have a print book?

I do. I picked up a hard copy from the library.

The first chapter in my ebook is Book Index 7 Miss Holmes: A Summons at Midnight. (view spoiler)[Okay - I have to put convention aside and accept that Mycroft has a daughter. I did not realize that this was a steampunk story. The descriptions of London and the misc steam machines seem interesting. "Steam: the lifeblood of London." LOL! Both of the young ladies seem to be pretty full of themselves and then to find out that they were going to see Irene Adler - who seems like she should be older than 30??. (Ref: "A Scandal in Bohemia" when she met Holmes). (hide spoiler)]

I just downloaded this from the library to replace the book I just gave up on. Hope it works out better, I'm in the mood for a light, quick read.

Lynda wrote: "I just downloaded this from the library to replace the book I just gave up on. Hope it works out better, I'm in the mood for a light, quick read."

That' what I'm expecting from this too.

I'm only three chapters in, and I think this is exactly the type of book I was in the mood for. It's not something to take too seriously. It amuses me that it's a story about the niece of a fictional character, and the sister of a historical person. It reminds me of our discussion concerning ACD's irritation at London's belief that Sherlock was a real person.

Casceil wrote: "This looks interesting. I hope you will post a reminder in early April, so that I don't totally forget about it."

Hi Casceil! Just posting a reminder that this buddy read starts in a week. Looks like we have quite a few people interested.

Lynda wrote: "I just downloaded this from the library to replace the book I just gave up on. Hope it works out better, I'm in the mood for a light, quick read."

It really is a pretty quick read. I had a hard time gulping down all of the things that will be revealed, but I do not want to spoil any fun right now. I actually finished the book night before last, but I never added it to my currently reading list. I want to go back and add spoilers with everyone.

I see that Lynda is already finding out. :O)

Thanks for the reminder, Kristie!

You're welcome! :)

This is an easy read, but I've been somewhat distracted by a boy, so I'm only on page 76 (sorry my ebook doesn't have chapters, which: annoying).

(view spoiler)[There is definitely an inherent silliness to this book, and perhaps to steampunk in general, which is fine, but probably not something I would read if I wasn't particularly in the mood for. I had to laugh out loud, when Mina wanted to be circumspect and sneak around at the big ball, but dressed in perhaps one of the most outlandish costumes there. I guess she didn't learn how use a disguise from her uncle, yet!

One moment, though, that was a total, "boo" for me was when Mina forgot to be observant because she was dancing with the Scottish Inspector. Really? That troupe: girl is flustered by guy, thus forgets her intelligence. No thank you.

I feel like Mina is getting more character development than Miss Stoker (her first name is even escaping me at the moment), so I hope that changes. The first person narrative doesn't do much for making the girls likable. Perhaps they're supposed to come off as strident and judgmental? I'm sure that they will eventually thaw towards each other, but right now, they're not the most charming sleuths.

As far as the mystery goes, I'm interested to see what the secret scarab society, ancient Egyptian mythology, and iPhone-carrying time travelers have to do with society murders. (hide spoiler)]

What's wrong with these authors who can't number the chapters? Maybe it is the publishers? Maybe it is the ebooks? Anyone got a dead tree book?

Lynda - I am reading an ebook copy too. If I pause at the beginning of the chapter (put my finger on the bottom of the text), the screen shows Book Index #, page 1ofX and Book progress #.#%. in a black box.

The first chapter is Book Index 7, so I have to subtract 6 to get a chapter number. I added a book mark at the beginning of every chapter.
There are 30 chapters.

The third chapter is Miss Holmes "Of Mudless Shoes and Murder". Does this match your book, Lynda?

I cannot get pages unless I add up all of the pages as I go. The pages only display how many are in each chapter. The last chapter in my ebook is 7 pages long. The first chapter is 9 pages. The 2nd is 8 pages. Chapter three starts on page 18 or 8.1% (it is 14 pages long).

I am tired of this now. I'm going to review The Passage so I can start The Twelve.

Oh, have fun with your boy distraction, Lynda!

I will be starting this once I finish my current book. It sounds like it will be an enjoyable enough read so I am quite looking forward to it. I have it on my kindle so I'm guessing it won't have chapter numbers/headings.

Cherie wrote: "What's wrong with these authors who can't number the chapters? Maybe it is the publishers? Maybe it is the ebooks? Anyone got a dead tree book?

Lynda - I am reading an ebook copy too. If I pause a..."

My Nook isn't giving me more than page X of XX...the chapter I'm on now is Miss Stoker's Grudging Regret. That's about 10 pages past my spoiler, but no chapter numbers even in the text. I mean...how hard is that to put together ebook powers that be?

I have a hard copy. There are no chapter numbers, just headings, such as, "Miss Holmes A Summons at Midnight." Can you not get % done on the Kindle (or other ebook)?

Kristie wrote: "I have a hard copy. There are no chapter numbers, just headings, such as, "Miss Holmes A Summons at Midnight." Can you not get % done on the Kindle (or other ebook)?"

At least all editions seem to be the same with regards to the lack of chapter numbers. I can get % done on my kindle so that should help. I just wish all books were published with chapter numbers. It makes discussing them so much easier when it comes to spoilers.

Hmmm, mine doesn't have numbered Chapters just headings. I dont have % but I do have page numbers.

I have page numbers as well (obviously, since I have the hard copy). It is pretty easy to figure out % though. When you update what page you are on in the book, GR automatically tells you your percentage, so we should all be able to discus easily enough.

Hopefully, this will help.

Chapter 1 Miss Holmes A Summons at Midnight
Chapter 2 Miss Holmes In Which Our Heroines Accept an Intriguing Invitation
Chapter 3 Miss Holmes Of Mudless Shoes and Murder
Chapter 4 Miss Stoker In Which Miss Stoker Is Fanned by a Glocky Sprite
Chapter 5 Miss Holmes Miss Holmes Has an Unexpected Visitor
Chapter 6 Miss Stoker In Which Miss Stoker Is Twice Surprised
Chapter 7 Miss Holmes Of Firefly Lanterns, Copper Heels, and Convenient Waltzes
Chapter 8 Miss Stoker Wherein Our Heroines Encounter an Overabundance of Perfumes
Chapter 9 Miss Holmes An Introduction to a Secret Society
Chapter 10 Miss Stoker Miss Stoker’s Grudging Regret
Chapter 11 Miss Holmes An Unwanted Encounter
Chapter 12 Miss Holmes In Which Miss Holmes Gives a History Lesson
Chapter 13 Miss Stoker Miss Stoker Goes Hunting
Chapter 14 Miss Stoker Miss Stoker is Paid with a False Coin
Chapter 15 Miss Holmes An Unsettling Interrogation
Chapter 16 Miss Holmes A Most Curious Device
Chapter 17 Miss Stoker Of Crushed Cauldrons, Critics, and Characters
Chapter 18 Miss Holmes A Civil Conversation
Chapter 19 Miss Stoker Miss Stoker is Stymied
Chapter 20 Miss Stoker By the Fog of an Opium Stew
Chapter 21 Miss Stoker Miss Stoker Is Taken Off Guard
Chapter 22 Miss Holmes Horror
Chapter 23 Miss Stoker Out of the Frying Pan
Chapter 24 Miss Holmes An Unfortunate Miscalculation
Chapter 25 Miss Holmes The Game is Afoot
Chapter 26 Miss Stoker In the Shadow of Sekhmet
Chapter 27 Miss Holmes An Impossible Choice
Chapter 28 Miss Stoker Miss Stoker’s Decision
Chapter 29 Miss Holmes A Disembodied Voice
Chapter 30 Miss Holmes Wherein Our Heroines Learn the Meaning of the Word “Debrief”

Thanks for that, Cherie!

You're a rock star, Cherie...thank you.

I agree, Lisa, chapter numbers should just be a given!

That's great Cherie =]

I think I'll begin this either tonight or tomoz

My copy is due to arrive Friday. I can read it anytime after that, if others want to move up the start date.

I really don't mind. When I comment I'll put it under spoilers anyway.

Casceil wrote: "My copy is due to arrive Friday. I can read it anytime after that, if others want to move up the start date."

I don't mind either. I'm planning on starting it tomorrow.

I was noticing that a few people have started already too, Casceil. Unfortunately, I got the book from the library and left it at home when I went on vacation, so I can't start until the evening of the 12th because that's when I get home. If others want to read ahead, that's fine though. I'll just respond to spoilers later.

Sorry guys, I totally missed that there was a start date. Guess I'm a little rusty with all the details on Buddy Reads.

No worries, Lynda. Hope you're enjoying it. :)

I have started and am up to the beginning of Chapter 8 - Wherein Our Heroines Encounter an Overabundance of Perfumes.

So far, I would describe it as 'enjoyable hokum'. It's a bit silly but it's fun and easy to read. It's definitely more of a plot-driven rather than character-driven book at this stage. With the possible exception of Miss Holmes, I don't think any of the characters are particularly well developed thus far and like Lynda, I am struggling to even remember Miss Stoker's first name. Hopefully that will change.

Lynda, (view spoiler)[I also laughed when Miss Holmes went to the ball in that dress. So much for being inconspicuous! (hide spoiler)]

(view spoiler)[I'm curious about Pix and how he knows so much about Miss Stoker. From the way he speaks (when his awful, obviously fake Cockney accent slips), I think he could be Scottish. Ambrose is also Scottish which has got me wondering if maybe they know each other or if Pix also works for the police? It could certainly explain why he knows so much and why he happens to be at the ball. The time traveller (whose name I have also forgotten) is quite intriguing too. (hide spoiler)]

The Egyptian mythology elements are interesting so far so I am looking forward to seeing how they all fit it into the story. The steampunk elements are okay, although I think they could be better developed. I am not the biggest fan of steampunk though so that could be why that side of things is falling a bit flat.

I'm going to start this today. It's easier to juggle it with my other reading if I read this one over the weekend.

I am now caught up to Lisa's last post, beginning of Chapter 8. I'm enjoying the steampunk elements, though I find some of them a little hard to picture. I'm not sure I understand about the levels of street.

I gather this book was aimed at teen-aged girls. It does seem to include comments on the attractiveness of many males they encounter.

I am intrigued by Lisa's theory (view spoiler)[that there may be some connection between Pix and Inspector Grayley, or at least between Pix and Scotland Yard. (hide spoiler)]

Darn, I don't have my laptop and can't read spoilers.

Spoiler re: Lisa's theory and Casceil's response: (view spoiler)[That's interesting, I hadn't thought about Pix being connected with the police.

I was wondering if he isn't part of a larger "monster-hunter" type community, since he knows Miss Stoker's a slayer. He seems to be investigating the Sekhmet stuff, which includes some sort of supernatural connection since it sucked iPhone guy in to Victorian England. (hide spoiler)]

I'm up to Chapter 15 - An Unsettling Interrogation.

Chapter 8 - (view spoiler)[I had to roll my eyes when Miss Holmes and Miss Stoker got slightly separated from the rest of the women in the tunnel and then got set upon by the men. How convenient that there were all those other women who the men could have targeted, yet they let them pass by but couldn't resist the two heroines! (hide spoiler)]

Chapter 9 - (view spoiler)[I'm wondering if Irene Adler is the leader of the secret Sekhmet Society. She is a master of deception so it wouldn't be surprising if she somehow manages to conceal her identity, to the point where you no longer know if the person is male or female. Having said that, didn't Miss Holmes say that she refers to the leader of the Society as 'she' for the sake of simplicity? I thought that was slightly odd. (hide spoiler)]

(view spoiler)[It was quite nice, if a bit cheesy, to have Sherlock Holmes and Doctor Watson make an appearance. I wonder if they will show up again later on or whether it was literally a token gesture? (hide spoiler)]

Lynda, (view spoiler)[I like your idea about Pix being a member of a larger 'monster-hunter' type community. It's that or Scotland Yard, I think as there is no way he is just a petty criminal. He is definitely investigating something, be it the Sekhmet case or something else. (hide spoiler)]

(view spoiler)[I was really surprised that it took Miss Holmes so long to deduce that Dylan was a time traveller. This is Sherlock Holmes' niece we are talking about here! (hide spoiler)]

I'm still finding it really difficult to like or connect with our two heroines. (view spoiler)[Their constant coldness towards each other doesn't help and I also don't think their 'partnership' is particularly well developed. I'm not saying they have to like each other for a partnership to work or be interesting but I don't feel like they are a partnership at present because they seem to spend so much time apart doing separate things, albeit working towards the same goal. (hide spoiler)]

Casceil - Yes, this is most definitely a young-adult novel. Personally, there are far too many comments about male attractiveness for my liking. My eyeballs are getting sore from my rolling them so much! Lol.

I knew that was going to happen, Lisa. I felt the eye rolling too, but put it behind me to get on with the story. I don't think it is so bad later on, but maybe I just sucked it up and decided to ignore it. I didn't think it would bother Lynda as much as you.

The steampunk aspects are strange to me too. Some make no sense. The reasons given about why they passed a law to outlaw electricity do not seem reasonable.

The thing that bothered me the most is Irene Adler (view spoiler)[ why she was chosen to work in the museum cataloging Egyptian treasures makes no sense at all. I cannot understand the British royalty either. The names and relationships seem wrong to me. (hide spoiler)]

I'm a bit disappointed that I didn't bring the book on vacation with me. I can't wait to read all the spoilers.

There is a word this author likes to use a lot, "drassy," as in "drassy moonlight." I've never encountered it before, and my husband looked online and couldn't find a definition for it. Anyone out there know what it means? From context, I'm guessing it means something like "hazy."

Couldn't find drassy in the Urban Dictionary.

Maybe a steampunk thing? Something to do with dirty London air. I will watch for it again.

I haven't been able to find a definition of "drassy" either.

Cherie - (view spoiler)[I can't remember which members of the British Royal family have been mentioned (apart from Queen Victoria), although I think Edward VII (Edward Albert Victor) and his wife may have been two of them. He was married to Alexandra of Denmark so if it was her that was mentioned, it is correct. (hide spoiler)]

I'm up to chapter 15 also, and Lisa, I'm feeling very much the same way you are about the books as whole. And, yes, the "this boy is giving me the flutters" stuff is eye-rolling for sure. (view spoiler)[Maybe the reason Mina took so long to figure out our time-traveler is because he's a boy so she "forgot to be observant". (hide spoiler)]

Re Irene Adler (view spoiler)[I'm a bit suspicious of her as well. Also, I find it hard to believe Sherlock wouldn't know about her involvement with his niece, but maybe I'm doing too much intermingling of book series' there. (hide spoiler)]

I don't think the first person perspective is doing much to make our heroines less off-putting (at least for me). They are cold, and I really am finding myself disliking Miss Stoker (Eveline!). At this point, I'm most enjoying Pix.