The Turquoise Spider is the first book of the Elizabeth Hunter-Payne Steampunk Adventures written by Mikala Ash. This series takes place during the golden age of an alternate Victorian England filled with technology and wonder.

This first-person novella focuses on Elizabeth, a war widow, who has a nose for mystery and a knack for asking hard-hitting questions. Before Elizabeth can hang her shingle at her detective agency, she’s pulled into a case that will blow the social norms and mores of the era out of the water.

Ash breathes life into her characters, and the world they inhabit. Her choice of era specific language and cultural idiosyncrasies lends authenticity to the tale. 

Elizabeth is relatable and a joy to follow. She’s feminine, cultured, headstrong, and gifted with a healthy dose of Holmesian wit. In the end, you may even find that she’s more of a Libertine than originally expected. 

The Turquoise Spider is a steamy steampunk mystery that is easily consumed in a single sitting. Highly recommended for any fan of steampunk and mysteries, as long as you don’t mind the heat!