Rating: 3.52/5 (from 33,986 ratings) | 416 pages | Find on Amazon
What is Boneshaker About?
Cherie Priest's Boneshaker throws readers into an alternate-history Seattle, walled off from the world after a terrible disaster. Years ago, a powerful machine called the Boneshaker tore through the city, releasing a mysterious gas that turns people into the undead. The story follows a determined mother, Briar Wilkes, as she ventures into the toxic, ruined city to rescue her son, who has gone searching for the truth about his family's past.
Why Readers Love This World
The most celebrated aspect of Boneshaker is undoubtedly its incredible atmosphere. Priest builds a world that is both terrifying and fascinating. Imagine a city buried under layers of poisonous yellow gas, where survivors live in precarious settlements and navigate the ruins with airships, advanced machinery, and fortified goggles. This isn't just a backdrop; the gas-filled city of Seattle is a character in itself, providing a constant sense of danger and wonder that readers consistently praise.
A Story of Grit and Determination
At its heart, this is a story about courage and a mother's love. Briar Wilkes is not a typical hero; she is an ordinary person pushed to extraordinary limits. Her journey through the perilous city is driven by one goal: to find her son. Her resilience and sheer determination make her a character you can't help but root for. It’s a thrilling adventure that shows just how far someone will go for their family.
A Note for Younger Readers
While the setting is a dangerous dystopia, Priest masterfully focuses on the adventure and the emotional core of the story rather than intense horror. The suspense is high, but it's delivered in a way that is gripping without being overly frightening, making it an exciting pick for younger teens and advanced middle-grade readers who love inventive gadgets and brave heroes.
Final Thoughts
Boneshaker is a wildly imaginative ride that successfully blends history, science fiction, and non-stop action. While some readers wished for a faster pace at times, the overwhelming consensus is that the rich, creepy, and utterly unique world-building is more than worth the journey. It’s a perfect introduction to the steampunk genre and a testament to the power of a parent's love. If you're looking for an adventure that is both inventive and heartfelt, this is the book for you.
