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Watchmaker's Heart
For Miss Phoebe Lockswell, fashionable London tea parties and balls aren’t her style. Instead, she prefers to tinker tirelessly with a clockwork diffuser she’s built from scratch. If only she can get the invention to work on command, she might earn her way out of an arranged marriage to a repugnant member of the House of Commons.
London watchmaker Mortimer Kidd was brought up hard in the arms of an infamous London gang. Despite the respectability he strives for now, the gang leader is blackmailing him. When Mortimer sees Phoebe’s diffuser, he thinks he’s found a way to buy himself out of trouble. The brash Phoebe manages to steal his heart, however, before he can purloin her invention.
Will Mortimer’s unsavory past catch up to him before he convinces Phoebe of his devotion? Worse, once Phoebe learns the truth, will she ever trust him again?
London watchmaker Mortimer Kidd was brought up hard in the arms of an infamous London gang. Despite the respectability he strives for now, the gang leader is blackmailing him. When Mortimer sees Phoebe’s diffuser, he thinks he’s found a way to buy himself out of trouble. The brash Phoebe manages to steal his heart, however, before he can purloin her invention.
Will Mortimer’s unsavory past catch up to him before he convinces Phoebe of his devotion? Worse, once Phoebe learns the truth, will she ever trust him again?
- GenresSteampunk
227 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 1, 2016
About the author
Juli D. Revezzo
38 books93 followersJuli D. Revezzo writes fantasy and romantic stories filled in with elements garnered from a lifetime love affair with magic, myth, witches, wizards, and fated lovers and legend. She is the author of The Antique Magic series and the Paranormal Romance Celtic Stewards Chronicles series, steampunk historical romance WATCHMAKER'S HEART, and short stories published in ETERNAL HAUNTED SUMMER, LUNA STATION QUARTERLY, among others. She is also a member of the Independent Author Network and the Magic Appreciation Tour. To learn more about this and future releases, visit her at: www.julidrevezzo.com
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Displaying 1 - 11 of 11 reviews
October 2, 2016
Wondering what ‘Steampunk” is? Take a look at Juli D. Revezzo’s Watchmaker’s Heart and you will have a delicious sample of an alternate history that is equal parts, fascinating, fun, witty and even a little quirky at times! Did I mention the tinkerers and their machines and devices? If your mind isn’t dreaming up your own steampunk inventions, or you didn’t want to jump into this world for even just a little while, I would be surprised!
Meet Miss Penelope Lockswell, tinkerer, inventor and a woman far too independent for her time. She is also a woman caught in the customs of her day and could be married off at her father’s whim. But first, she must get her clockwork diffuser to work on command with the hopes that she will not have to marry an obese and foul man of political circumstance.
When watchmaker and former gang member, Mortimer Kidd sees Phoebe’s invention, he sees a way out of a rather nasty situation by taking it for himself. How could he know this vibrant young woman would steal his heart and bring his conscience back to life; a life that will be worth nothing if he does not get that diffuser.
What happens of Phoebe learns who Mortimer really is? What does Mortimer know about her suitor that could save her from a distasteful marriage?
Love is a many splendored thing and Juli D. Revezzo brings the magic of the dialogue, the atmosphere and a slowly simmering romance together with the excitement of the era until the lines of reality blur and you expect to look up and see clockwork creations all around!
From start to finish, this is a slice of reading heaven in a world that is over-flowing with imagination and charm from the characters to the inventions to the intrigue of dark pasts and hopes for bright futures.
I received this copy from Juli D. Revezzo in exchange for my honest review.
Publisher: Raven Queen Publications (March 1, 2016)
Publication Date: March 1, 2016
Genre: Steampunk Romance
Print Length: 222 pages
Available from: Amazon | Barnes & Noble
For Reviews & More: http://tometender.blogspot.com
Meet Miss Penelope Lockswell, tinkerer, inventor and a woman far too independent for her time. She is also a woman caught in the customs of her day and could be married off at her father’s whim. But first, she must get her clockwork diffuser to work on command with the hopes that she will not have to marry an obese and foul man of political circumstance.
When watchmaker and former gang member, Mortimer Kidd sees Phoebe’s invention, he sees a way out of a rather nasty situation by taking it for himself. How could he know this vibrant young woman would steal his heart and bring his conscience back to life; a life that will be worth nothing if he does not get that diffuser.
What happens of Phoebe learns who Mortimer really is? What does Mortimer know about her suitor that could save her from a distasteful marriage?
Love is a many splendored thing and Juli D. Revezzo brings the magic of the dialogue, the atmosphere and a slowly simmering romance together with the excitement of the era until the lines of reality blur and you expect to look up and see clockwork creations all around!
From start to finish, this is a slice of reading heaven in a world that is over-flowing with imagination and charm from the characters to the inventions to the intrigue of dark pasts and hopes for bright futures.
I received this copy from Juli D. Revezzo in exchange for my honest review.
Publisher: Raven Queen Publications (March 1, 2016)
Publication Date: March 1, 2016
Genre: Steampunk Romance
Print Length: 222 pages
Available from: Amazon | Barnes & Noble
For Reviews & More: http://tometender.blogspot.com
February 2, 2018
Poor Phoebe is nothing like her peers and prefers tinkering with her creations much to her parent's horror. Determined to set her on the straight and narrow they are encouraging a marriage with a man, dear reader who makes Phoebe shiver and cringe. I am inclined to agree with her. Not to be deterred she sneaks off by train to attend an inventors convention and share her diffuser. Being a young lady unescorted let alone attending such a conference was rather scandalous. When she spies a reporter on the train, she seeks to hide fearing her father will discover where she spent her day. As she hides she encounters, London watchmaker Mortimer Kidd. Mortimer has gotten himself into some trouble with the local gangs of London and at first, seeks to strip Phoebe of her diffuser, but as they strike up a conversation all that changes.
The tale that unfolds was an engaging one, as Phoebe tries to avoid Sir Dugard, the ghastly man her parents wish for her to marry and chooses to spend time with the exciting watchmaker, Mortimer. He seems to see the value of Phoebe's diffuser as he helps her tinker with the gadget. A friendship soon develops, as do warm, romantic feelings, but Mortimer isn't for the likes of Lady Phoebe, and his secrets might put them both in peril.
Revezzo did a fantastic job of taking a classic Victorian storyline and making it her own. She weaved in steampunk, mystery, and suspense all while entertaining us with a forward speaking young heroine whose outlandish ideas about romance, sex and more shock her parents and bewitch Mortimer.
The audio narration by Rachael Beresford had some issues. While Beresford did a splendid job, the quality of the track left something to be desired. I was rather surprised at the background noise, particularly at the end of each chapter. It almost sounded like the noise the needle makes at the end of an album. While I am sure this is an editing issue, it did deter from my overall enjoyment of the narration. I would recommend reading this tale if such matters annoy you. Noise aside, I felt Beresford captured Phoebe's spirit and gave each character a voice befitting their description. This review was originally posted at Caffeinated Reviewer
The tale that unfolds was an engaging one, as Phoebe tries to avoid Sir Dugard, the ghastly man her parents wish for her to marry and chooses to spend time with the exciting watchmaker, Mortimer. He seems to see the value of Phoebe's diffuser as he helps her tinker with the gadget. A friendship soon develops, as do warm, romantic feelings, but Mortimer isn't for the likes of Lady Phoebe, and his secrets might put them both in peril.
Revezzo did a fantastic job of taking a classic Victorian storyline and making it her own. She weaved in steampunk, mystery, and suspense all while entertaining us with a forward speaking young heroine whose outlandish ideas about romance, sex and more shock her parents and bewitch Mortimer.
The audio narration by Rachael Beresford had some issues. While Beresford did a splendid job, the quality of the track left something to be desired. I was rather surprised at the background noise, particularly at the end of each chapter. It almost sounded like the noise the needle makes at the end of an album. While I am sure this is an editing issue, it did deter from my overall enjoyment of the narration. I would recommend reading this tale if such matters annoy you. Noise aside, I felt Beresford captured Phoebe's spirit and gave each character a voice befitting their description. This review was originally posted at Caffeinated Reviewer
June 22, 2019
This is one of those books that I listened to a while back and never saw the lights of a review. Shame on me, but it’s never too late to remind you guys of this great title by Juli D. Revezzo.
Phoebe Lockswell’s imagination and ingenuity led her to create one of the most interesting devices of the time. She has spent numerous hours trying to get the silly clockwork diffuser to work and is almost out of patience. Still, when she meets Mortimer Kidd, her ambition becomes stronger. Little does she know that he has his own plans with her invention.
The author manages to create two amazing characters that mix so well with a plot that will captivate you from the start. A woman too strong-minded and independent for her time, Phoebe is very close to a role model. I admire her perseverance and her desire to be on her own two feet. Faced with the possibility to marry a man she has no other feelings for except fear and distaste, Phoebe forms a friendship with Mortimer. His past is more than shady and he has no place in her world. But somehow, the interest they share for creations, the curiosity and creativity unite them. However, the past always catches up to us and our characters will have a lot to face. If their feelings are strong enough or if there is room for one in the other’s world, you will have to discover on your won.
I loved the pace, I loved the mystery and I loved the characters. The narration was a bonus as well. I liked how Rachael Beresford interpreted the female voices and I appreciated her trying with the male ones. But her tone created a wonderful atmosphere and contributed to my enjoyment. In all honesty, I saw comments here and there that the quality of the audio was not the best but, after some time, I only remember the good parts. Probably the other ones were not so important 😉
All in all, I loved this book, as expected. Juli D. Revezzo has yet to disappoint me!
Phoebe Lockswell’s imagination and ingenuity led her to create one of the most interesting devices of the time. She has spent numerous hours trying to get the silly clockwork diffuser to work and is almost out of patience. Still, when she meets Mortimer Kidd, her ambition becomes stronger. Little does she know that he has his own plans with her invention.
The author manages to create two amazing characters that mix so well with a plot that will captivate you from the start. A woman too strong-minded and independent for her time, Phoebe is very close to a role model. I admire her perseverance and her desire to be on her own two feet. Faced with the possibility to marry a man she has no other feelings for except fear and distaste, Phoebe forms a friendship with Mortimer. His past is more than shady and he has no place in her world. But somehow, the interest they share for creations, the curiosity and creativity unite them. However, the past always catches up to us and our characters will have a lot to face. If their feelings are strong enough or if there is room for one in the other’s world, you will have to discover on your won.
I loved the pace, I loved the mystery and I loved the characters. The narration was a bonus as well. I liked how Rachael Beresford interpreted the female voices and I appreciated her trying with the male ones. But her tone created a wonderful atmosphere and contributed to my enjoyment. In all honesty, I saw comments here and there that the quality of the audio was not the best but, after some time, I only remember the good parts. Probably the other ones were not so important 😉
All in all, I loved this book, as expected. Juli D. Revezzo has yet to disappoint me!
December 8, 2017
I’m remember when I was first hesitant to read steampunk books, because I don’t know much about them. If you want to experience the genre, I suggest checking this WATCHMAKER’S HEART. This is a great introduction to steampunk and Victorian romance.
The dialogue was quick and witty, the characters quirky and mysterious. The novel was overall light and fast-paced. I loved the world that Revezzo created and the way she managed to write such a fun story within a historical context. She set a good foundation for the setting and provided interesting character interactions when there wasn’t action.
Penelope “Phoebe” Lockswell is an incredible character with her independence and determination to stick by her principles. It’s obvious she doesn’t fit in with the time she has been born into, but she doesn’t let that stop her creativity and dreams. I enjoyed seeing the relationship between her and Mortimer slowly form from stranger to lovers; a great slow burn romance, indeed. Their relationship is really a solid partnership that comes naturally to them.
The audio was fabulous with a narrator who nailed every character down to a tee. She brought the story to life for me and made it fun to listen along from start to finish.
"I was provided an audio copy of this book from the author via The New Adult Group on Goodreads at no charge, for my unbiased review."
The dialogue was quick and witty, the characters quirky and mysterious. The novel was overall light and fast-paced. I loved the world that Revezzo created and the way she managed to write such a fun story within a historical context. She set a good foundation for the setting and provided interesting character interactions when there wasn’t action.
Penelope “Phoebe” Lockswell is an incredible character with her independence and determination to stick by her principles. It’s obvious she doesn’t fit in with the time she has been born into, but she doesn’t let that stop her creativity and dreams. I enjoyed seeing the relationship between her and Mortimer slowly form from stranger to lovers; a great slow burn romance, indeed. Their relationship is really a solid partnership that comes naturally to them.
The audio was fabulous with a narrator who nailed every character down to a tee. She brought the story to life for me and made it fun to listen along from start to finish.
"I was provided an audio copy of this book from the author via The New Adult Group on Goodreads at no charge, for my unbiased review."
July 22, 2016
The main character, Phoebe, is an inventor with a creation made that fits right into a steampunk kind of world. However, Phoebe's actual gadget places this story into more of a romance setting. Based on its description, it would be amusing to see it in action.
Loved how Phoebe's spunky spirit made this story a light and fun romance read. Also, loved Phoebe's strong and independent personality. Despite her time period, it was good to know that she would not conform to the etiquette of the times. Her curiosity was a driving force in this story.
Phoebe's love interest, Mortimer, was just as endearing although his past remains somewhat of a mystery until the end.
Loved how Phoebe's spunky spirit made this story a light and fun romance read. Also, loved Phoebe's strong and independent personality. Despite her time period, it was good to know that she would not conform to the etiquette of the times. Her curiosity was a driving force in this story.
Phoebe's love interest, Mortimer, was just as endearing although his past remains somewhat of a mystery until the end.
December 16, 2017
Audio Review
3.5/5.0
This honey-sweet audio, featuring a headstrong heroine with spunk in spades and a thieving anti-hero, is such a romantic story!
Read full review in the 2017 December issue of InD'tale Magazine.
3.5/5.0
This honey-sweet audio, featuring a headstrong heroine with spunk in spades and a thieving anti-hero, is such a romantic story!
Read full review in the 2017 December issue of InD'tale Magazine.
November 25, 2017
The narration is very soothing. This book is about Phoebe a young inventor with a creation right of the steampunk world. Phoebe has a strong, independent personality. Her father is trying to arrange a marriage to Sir Dugard but she is interested in Mort. I received an ARC copy for a voluntary honest review.
August 7, 2020
*review of audiobook edition*
Before I get to the story I want to shout out the narrator Rachael Beresford. She did a spectacular job narrating a story I otherwise may not have gotten into. Her beautiful voice and talent with character differentiation, made the story flow and wish I was still listening even after I was done.
I don't normally put warnings on my reviews, but I read a lot of YA so when I read something that's not for young readers I feel odd recommending it without warning my followers.
Now I need to cravat my warning by saying, This is not Erotica it is very clean considering that a large plot point revolves around the pleasures of love making.
That said, if you have let's say a Victorian sense decency, this book may not be for you, seeing as it's largely about Victorians and their sense of decency, or lack thereof as the case may be.
which brings up another point, this book was billed as Steampunk but the only thing that ran on steam was the train. This could easily be listed as a historical romance without any tweaks and I honestly may have given it more if a pass as I tend to think of steampunk in more science fiction or fantasy terms.
plot summery in a way that makes my cravat understandable: In a world where women have little say in who they sleep with. Phoebe is a tinker trying to invent a device that will enhance the enjoyment of sex. She is a good girl though, and like I said this is a pretty clean book given the topic.
So final evaluation, if you enjoy historical romance and aren't afraid to talk about the facts of life without having then shown to you great detail then this book is for you.
If you want to try something with a steampunk vibe without straying from the believable possiblity of historical technology then this book may also be for you.
Before I get to the story I want to shout out the narrator Rachael Beresford. She did a spectacular job narrating a story I otherwise may not have gotten into. Her beautiful voice and talent with character differentiation, made the story flow and wish I was still listening even after I was done.
I don't normally put warnings on my reviews, but I read a lot of YA so when I read something that's not for young readers I feel odd recommending it without warning my followers.
Now I need to cravat my warning by saying, This is not Erotica it is very clean considering that a large plot point revolves around the pleasures of love making.
That said, if you have let's say a Victorian sense decency, this book may not be for you, seeing as it's largely about Victorians and their sense of decency, or lack thereof as the case may be.
which brings up another point, this book was billed as Steampunk but the only thing that ran on steam was the train. This could easily be listed as a historical romance without any tweaks and I honestly may have given it more if a pass as I tend to think of steampunk in more science fiction or fantasy terms.
plot summery in a way that makes my cravat understandable: In a world where women have little say in who they sleep with. Phoebe is a tinker trying to invent a device that will enhance the enjoyment of sex. She is a good girl though, and like I said this is a pretty clean book given the topic.
So final evaluation, if you enjoy historical romance and aren't afraid to talk about the facts of life without having then shown to you great detail then this book is for you.
If you want to try something with a steampunk vibe without straying from the believable possiblity of historical technology then this book may also be for you.
May 17, 2020
What can I say? This book is a bit cozy mystery, a bit steampunk, a bit of a YA- Coming of Age story (even though the protagonist isn't really a teen, but she's just too naive for me to think of her any in any other terms). I generally enjoy any of those genres, or combination of them, but there wasn't enough mystery to titillate me, or steampunk to delight my inner child, and even the coming of age story seemed tepid. I felt that there just wasn't enough character development to carry or propel the story forward, or maybe, to ummm... support my suspension of disbelief. I went ahead and finished the book because it was actually kinda cute, even though the ending was a forgone conclusion.
Rachael Bersford neither added to, nor distracted from, the listening process...
Soooooo, I'm giving it 2.5⭐out of 5.
Rachael Bersford neither added to, nor distracted from, the listening process...
Soooooo, I'm giving it 2.5⭐out of 5.
May 3, 2016
7, 1898, 3/1899.
Ms. Penelope “Phoebe” Lockswell (21, alias Locksley) had invented/built a clockwork diffuser.
She was trying to market the product but for now was to no evail.
Her father is trying to arrange a marriage for her with Sir Dugard (nobleman, Albert’s BMF, aka Sir Fat Pig, Member, House of Commons).
Phoebe goes to a theatre event with him & meets. Mortimer “Mort” Kidd (paymaster, London, England, owner of Nutbeam’s Watch Repair).
She kind of left Sir Dugard there with no explanation.
Mr. Albert Lockswell (father, solicitor) & Lady Lockswell (mother) were not happy with her at all. William Lockswell (brother) could have cared less.
What information did Ms. Cora Smythe Phoebe’s BFF) find out?
Will Phoebe get married?
Warning: This book contains extremely graphic adult content, violence, or expletive language &/or uncensored sexually explicit material which is only suitable for mature readers. It may be offensive to some readers.
I did not receive any type of compensation for reading & reviewing this book. While I receive free books from publishers & authors, I am under no obligation to write a positive review, only an honest one. All thoughts & opinions are entirely my own.
A very awesome book cover, great font & writing style. A very well written Historical romance book. It was very easy for me to read/follow from start/finish & never a dull moment. There were no grammar/typo errors, nor any repetitive or out of line sequence sentences. Lots of exciting scenarios, with several twists/turns & a great set of unique characters to keep track of. This could also make another great Historical romance movie, or a mini TV series. A very easy rating of 5 stars.
Thank you for the free Goodreads; Making Connections; Raven Queen Publishers; Author; PDF book
Tony Parsons MSW (Washburn)
Ms. Penelope “Phoebe” Lockswell (21, alias Locksley) had invented/built a clockwork diffuser.
She was trying to market the product but for now was to no evail.
Her father is trying to arrange a marriage for her with Sir Dugard (nobleman, Albert’s BMF, aka Sir Fat Pig, Member, House of Commons).
Phoebe goes to a theatre event with him & meets. Mortimer “Mort” Kidd (paymaster, London, England, owner of Nutbeam’s Watch Repair).
She kind of left Sir Dugard there with no explanation.
Mr. Albert Lockswell (father, solicitor) & Lady Lockswell (mother) were not happy with her at all. William Lockswell (brother) could have cared less.
What information did Ms. Cora Smythe Phoebe’s BFF) find out?
Will Phoebe get married?
Warning: This book contains extremely graphic adult content, violence, or expletive language &/or uncensored sexually explicit material which is only suitable for mature readers. It may be offensive to some readers.
I did not receive any type of compensation for reading & reviewing this book. While I receive free books from publishers & authors, I am under no obligation to write a positive review, only an honest one. All thoughts & opinions are entirely my own.
A very awesome book cover, great font & writing style. A very well written Historical romance book. It was very easy for me to read/follow from start/finish & never a dull moment. There were no grammar/typo errors, nor any repetitive or out of line sequence sentences. Lots of exciting scenarios, with several twists/turns & a great set of unique characters to keep track of. This could also make another great Historical romance movie, or a mini TV series. A very easy rating of 5 stars.
Thank you for the free Goodreads; Making Connections; Raven Queen Publishers; Author; PDF book
Tony Parsons MSW (Washburn)
May 31, 2016
This sweet Victorian romance involves a different sort of heroine, one who likes to tinker with inventions rather than obsess over romance. The hero comes into her life just as she's had her dreams dashed regarding her latest invention...a decorative diffuser seemingly with a mind of its own. I liked Phoebe's independent and spunky attitude, and I adored the hero, Mortimer. He's a man who's come up through the world in a hardscrabble fashion, but isn't too cynical to recognize a beautiful soulmate when he sees her. Unfortunately, his past might catch up with him in the most diabolical fashion. Therefore, he's reluctant to get involved with Phoebe, lest she be endangered, too.
I enjoyed the story very much, especially since it's slightly off the beaten path as far as formulaic Victorian romance goes. I also rooted for the young couple to get to their HEA! Recommended.
I enjoyed the story very much, especially since it's slightly off the beaten path as far as formulaic Victorian romance goes. I also rooted for the young couple to get to their HEA! Recommended.
Displaying 1 - 11 of 11 reviews