If you thought a finishing school was just about perfecting your curtsy and sipping tea, Gail Carriger’s Curtsies & Conspiracies is here to delightfully prove you wrong. This second installment in the Finishing School series soars even higher than the first, taking readers back to Mademoiselle Geraldine's floating steampunk academy, where young ladies are trained in the arts of espionage, diversion, and assassination—all while maintaining impeccable decorum.
A School in the Sky and a Plot Afoot
The story picks up with our sharp-witted heroine, Sophronia Temminnick, navigating the social and strategic complexities of her unique education. When a crucial test results in an unexpected outcome, the school’s delicate social order is thrown into disarray. The plot truly kicks into gear when the entire academy takes to the skies aboard an airship bound for London. What seems like a simple field trip quickly unravels into a web of secrets, with a mysterious device at the heart of a dangerous conspiracy. Sophronia and her eclectic group of friends—including the inventive genius Soap and the stylish vampire-descended Sidheag—must use every tool in their finishing school arsenal to uncover the truth before it’s too late.
What Makes This Book a Gem?
Readers have consistently praised Curtsies & Conspiracies for its brilliant blend of humor and high-stakes adventure. Carriger’s signature wit is on full display, making even the most tense moments sparkle with clever dialogue and hilarious observations. The world-building is a standout feature; the steampunk elements, from mechanical servants to elaborate gadgets, are woven seamlessly into the Victorian-esque setting, creating a universe that feels both fantastical and utterly charming.
Fans of the series will be thrilled to see Sophronia’s character development. She grows more confident in her abilities, proving herself to be a resourceful and intelligent protagonist who thinks on her feet. The dynamic between the students is another highlight, featuring a mix of rivalry, loyalty, and budding friendships that feel authentic and engaging. The book masterfully balances larger, action-packed sequences with smaller, character-driven moments, ensuring the story never loses its heart or its momentum.
Final Verdict
With a stellar 4.13-star rating from over 27,000 readers on Goodreads, it’s clear that Curtsies & Conspiracies is a resounding success. It’s a perfect read for those who love clever heroines, inventive steampunk worlds, and stories where a well-placed hairpin can be just as effective as a sword. If you’re looking for a book that is as smart and stylish as it is fun, this is it. Gail Carriger has crafted a sequel that is not only satisfying but leaves you eager for the next adventure aboard Mademoiselle Geraldine’s extraordinary airship.
Book Details: Curtsies & Conspiracies by Gail Carriger | 310 Pages | Find it on Amazon.
