A Lady's Guide to Marvels and Misadventure

4.4 4.4 out of 5 stars | 242 ratings

Price: 18.8

Last update: 12-12-2024


About this item

Miss Clara Marie Stanton's family may be eccentric, but they certainly aren't insane. London, England, 1860: When Clara's ex-fiancé begins to spread rumors that her family suffers from hereditary insanity, it's all she can do to protect them from his desperate schemes, society's prejudice, and a lifetime in an asylum. Then Clara's grandfather Drosselmeyer brings on an apprentice with a mechanical leg, and all pretense of normalcy takes wing.

Theodore Kingsley, a shame-chased vagabond haunted by the war, wants a fresh start far from Kingsley Court and the disappointed father who declared him dead. Upon returning to England, Theodore meets clockmaker Drosselmeyer, who hires him as an apprentice, much to Clara's dismay.

When Drosselmeyer spontaneously disappears in his secret flying owl machine, he leaves behind a note for Clara, beseeching her to make her dreams of adventure a reality by joining him on a merry scavenger hunt across Europe.

Together, Clara and Theodore set off to follow Drosselmeyer's trail of clues, but they will have to stay one step ahead of a villain who wants the flying machine for himself—at any cost.


Top reviews from the United States

Eileen van der Merwe (@Eileens_bookish_corner)
5.0 out of 5 stars Amazing
Reviewed in the United States on October 29, 2024
A lady's guide to Marvels and Misadventure - @authorangelabell
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

????: kissing (clean)
❗️: gambling debt, lunacy, abduction, war,child abuse, nightmares
✝️: Christian themes

A fun ,whimsical, steampunk story.
I absolutely loved this book so much. It gave all of the historical & mystery feelings while weaving in some Steampunk elements.

I absolutely adored the characters, and they definitely were eccentric.

Clara was such a strong ,independent, and jaded woman who lost sight of her whimsical dreams and forgot that she could ask for help and lean on others. And her grandpa decided he was going to change all that and sent Clara on a chase of a lifetime.

Theodore was the new apprentice for Drosselmeyer.
Trying to hide from the past and disappointment of his father.
I love how Grand and the family basically immediately adopted him as one of their own. Well, all exept Clara.
I had so much fun reading this one ,and the writing style was absolutely amazing. And the faith content was perfect.

O and my favorite character have to be the mother and her pack of mismatched animals. And her nicknames for everyone are absolutely adorable.

If you like:
????Steampunk elements
????Around the world in 80 days
????????‍♀️The Nutcracker
????Dr. Dolittle
Then this book is for you.

Some of my favorite quotes:

“Indeed, and you were beginning to look like the hero of a gothic novel, which is completely unacceptable. I cannot abide any form of brooding.”

“Just as Grand would never expect a clock to fix its own windings, God would never expect us to mend our own hearts.”
Customer image
Eileen van der Merwe (@Eileens_bookish_corner)
5.0 out of 5 stars Amazing
Reviewed in the United States on October 29, 2024
A lady's guide to Marvels and Misadventure - @authorangelabell
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

????: kissing (clean)
❗️: gambling debt, lunacy, abduction, war,child abuse, nightmares
✝️: Christian themes

A fun ,whimsical, steampunk story.
I absolutely loved this book so much. It gave all of the historical & mystery feelings while weaving in some Steampunk elements.

I absolutely adored the characters, and they definitely were eccentric.

Clara was such a strong ,independent, and jaded woman who lost sight of her whimsical dreams and forgot that she could ask for help and lean on others. And her grandpa decided he was going to change all that and sent Clara on a chase of a lifetime.

Theodore was the new apprentice for Drosselmeyer.
Trying to hide from the past and disappointment of his father.
I love how Grand and the family basically immediately adopted him as one of their own. Well, all exept Clara.
I had so much fun reading this one ,and the writing style was absolutely amazing. And the faith content was perfect.

O and my favorite character have to be the mother and her pack of mismatched animals. And her nicknames for everyone are absolutely adorable.

If you like:
????Steampunk elements
????Around the world in 80 days
????????‍♀️The Nutcracker
????Dr. Dolittle
Then this book is for you.

Some of my favorite quotes:

“Indeed, and you were beginning to look like the hero of a gothic novel, which is completely unacceptable. I cannot abide any form of brooding.”

“Just as Grand would never expect a clock to fix its own windings, God would never expect us to mend our own hearts.”
Images in this review
Customer image
Laura Hartness
4.0 out of 5 stars Globe-hopping Fun!
Reviewed in the United States on March 7, 2024
We humans can be a complicated lot. Many of us have been damaged emotionally, and we take those injuries into all corners of our lives. Because of hurtful words from others, we might come to believe that we are “less than” or “unworthy” of success, strength or even love. On the other hand, many of us are determined to be strong and self-sufficient, never showing weakness or the need for assistance. In either scenario, hearts can become closed off. We don’t allow ourselves to be truly seen and loved, either because we feel unworthy, or because we could be seen as weak. When this happens, our lives become smaller. We try to maintain control over what is actually uncontrollable, and we reject the love that will soothe our aching souls.

The lead characters in A Lady’s Guide to Marvels and Misadventure by Angela Bell exhibit these same tendencies. Clara Marie Stanton has been hurt by a former fiancé. Not only has she vowed to never be hurt in matters of romance ever again, but she also feels a strong compulsion to control her environment as much as possible. This includes shouldering the burden of protecting and providing for her family as much as she is able. The compulsion is so strong, that her grandfather refers to her as her “Little Atlas”, as she tries to bear the weight of the world on her shoulders.

Clara comes to know Theodore Kingsley, an apprentice of her grandfather’s who is adept in clock repair. His heart is closed as well, but due to reasons of insecurity rather than self-sufficiency. Rejected by his family and a failure as a soldier, he feels unworthy of love. Due to his service on the battlefield, he is an amputee, and his injury also manifests itself emotionally as he sees himself as “damaged goods.” He struggles to determine his place in the world, almost like a broken cog that needs mending and purpose.

Clara and Theodore find themselves on a fantastic journey, not only on a whirlwind scavenger hunt laid out by her grandfather, but also in a race to outwit a cunning adversary who would do anything to acquire important assets of the Stanton family. Along the way they learn lessons about human self-sufficiency (or lack thereof) as well as the inherent worthiness that we carry to be loved by others and by God.

A Lady’s Guide to Marvels and Misadventure was such a joyful novel. Much like Jules Verne’s Around the World in Eighty Days, Angela Bell’s tale takes her readers to wondrous locations around the globe. There is a bit of a steampunk feel to the story, as certain elements would certainly have been impossible (or certainly not invented yet) in 19th century Europe. If readers can buy into the notion of a huge, flying automaton owl and similar creatures, then this story is a wonder to behold. Bell’s descriptions of the many mechanical creatures are lush and bring the whimsical items to life. I thoroughly enjoyed playing along with Drosselmeyer’s inventions and adventures.

Readers of classic fiction will find many winks to some of our favorite novels. Of course there are many tips of the hat to The Nutcracker, given Clara Marie’s name, her grandfather Drosselmeyer, the great Owl and other elements. I also spotted acknowledgements of Jane Austen, C. S. Lewis, Beatrix Potter, Clement Moore, Dumas, and King Arthur. The modern Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles even have a cameo with one particular character. This was especially amusing.

Author Angela Bell weaves a delightful tale of adventure, romance, whimsy, and redemption. Her worldview is unmistakably Christian, as God’s saving grace is mentioned on numerous occasions. It is especially applicable in the lives of Clara and Theodore. Clara is so self-reliant, her heart is closed to the possibility of romance, and she struggles with trusting God with the many obstacles she faces. She must come to learn that we need each other as well as our Heavenly Father in order to flourish in this life. Theodore’s lessons lie in understanding God’s love for him. Clara’s mother says to him, “Don’t confuse the character of your heavenly Father with the voice of your earthly one.” This is a difficult truth for Theodore, as he believed the lie that he was broken and worthless. Watching the development of Clara and Theodore, both as individuals and as partners in a grand escapade was as enriching as it was entertaining.

Given the perspective of the author, the content of A Lady’s Guide is decidedly family-friendly, but there are moments when Bell does not shy away from difficult issues. On more than one occasion Theodore recalls moments of abuse and trauma from his past. I found one scene in particular to be difficult to read, in fact. This type of material isn’t pervasive, but if the reader finds family conflict to be triggering, I would proceed with caution. That said, the darker material was handled very carefully and could have been far more graphic and troubling. The scenes that are shared merely illustrate the depth at which Theordore’s pain has reached, and it also therefore demonstrates the levels to which he can be healed.

As a debut author, Angela Bell has produced a strong and enchanting first novel. A Lady’s Guide to Marvels and Misadventure seems primed for the possibility of a sequel. Given the richness of the narrative and the possibilities inherent in Bell’s steampunkian world, the options are really almost endless. My hope is that A Lady’s Guide takes off to grand success, and readers are treated to yet another international, spectacular adventure with her delightful characters.
Customer image
Laura Hartness
4.0 out of 5 stars Globe-hopping Fun!
Reviewed in the United States on March 7, 2024
We humans can be a complicated lot. Many of us have been damaged emotionally, and we take those injuries into all corners of our lives. Because of hurtful words from others, we might come to believe that we are “less than” or “unworthy” of success, strength or even love. On the other hand, many of us are determined to be strong and self-sufficient, never showing weakness or the need for assistance. In either scenario, hearts can become closed off. We don’t allow ourselves to be truly seen and loved, either because we feel unworthy, or because we could be seen as weak. When this happens, our lives become smaller. We try to maintain control over what is actually uncontrollable, and we reject the love that will soothe our aching souls.

The lead characters in A Lady’s Guide to Marvels and Misadventure by Angela Bell exhibit these same tendencies. Clara Marie Stanton has been hurt by a former fiancé. Not only has she vowed to never be hurt in matters of romance ever again, but she also feels a strong compulsion to control her environment as much as possible. This includes shouldering the burden of protecting and providing for her family as much as she is able. The compulsion is so strong, that her grandfather refers to her as her “Little Atlas”, as she tries to bear the weight of the world on her shoulders.

Clara comes to know Theodore Kingsley, an apprentice of her grandfather’s who is adept in clock repair. His heart is closed as well, but due to reasons of insecurity rather than self-sufficiency. Rejected by his family and a failure as a soldier, he feels unworthy of love. Due to his service on the battlefield, he is an amputee, and his injury also manifests itself emotionally as he sees himself as “damaged goods.” He struggles to determine his place in the world, almost like a broken cog that needs mending and purpose.

Clara and Theodore find themselves on a fantastic journey, not only on a whirlwind scavenger hunt laid out by her grandfather, but also in a race to outwit a cunning adversary who would do anything to acquire important assets of the Stanton family. Along the way they learn lessons about human self-sufficiency (or lack thereof) as well as the inherent worthiness that we carry to be loved by others and by God.

A Lady’s Guide to Marvels and Misadventure was such a joyful novel. Much like Jules Verne’s Around the World in Eighty Days, Angela Bell’s tale takes her readers to wondrous locations around the globe. There is a bit of a steampunk feel to the story, as certain elements would certainly have been impossible (or certainly not invented yet) in 19th century Europe. If readers can buy into the notion of a huge, flying automaton owl and similar creatures, then this story is a wonder to behold. Bell’s descriptions of the many mechanical creatures are lush and bring the whimsical items to life. I thoroughly enjoyed playing along with Drosselmeyer’s inventions and adventures.

Readers of classic fiction will find many winks to some of our favorite novels. Of course there are many tips of the hat to The Nutcracker, given Clara Marie’s name, her grandfather Drosselmeyer, the great Owl and other elements. I also spotted acknowledgements of Jane Austen, C. S. Lewis, Beatrix Potter, Clement Moore, Dumas, and King Arthur. The modern Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles even have a cameo with one particular character. This was especially amusing.

Author Angela Bell weaves a delightful tale of adventure, romance, whimsy, and redemption. Her worldview is unmistakably Christian, as God’s saving grace is mentioned on numerous occasions. It is especially applicable in the lives of Clara and Theodore. Clara is so self-reliant, her heart is closed to the possibility of romance, and she struggles with trusting God with the many obstacles she faces. She must come to learn that we need each other as well as our Heavenly Father in order to flourish in this life. Theodore’s lessons lie in understanding God’s love for him. Clara’s mother says to him, “Don’t confuse the character of your heavenly Father with the voice of your earthly one.” This is a difficult truth for Theodore, as he believed the lie that he was broken and worthless. Watching the development of Clara and Theodore, both as individuals and as partners in a grand escapade was as enriching as it was entertaining.

Given the perspective of the author, the content of A Lady’s Guide is decidedly family-friendly, but there are moments when Bell does not shy away from difficult issues. On more than one occasion Theodore recalls moments of abuse and trauma from his past. I found one scene in particular to be difficult to read, in fact. This type of material isn’t pervasive, but if the reader finds family conflict to be triggering, I would proceed with caution. That said, the darker material was handled very carefully and could have been far more graphic and troubling. The scenes that are shared merely illustrate the depth at which Theordore’s pain has reached, and it also therefore demonstrates the levels to which he can be healed.

As a debut author, Angela Bell has produced a strong and enchanting first novel. A Lady’s Guide to Marvels and Misadventure seems primed for the possibility of a sequel. Given the richness of the narrative and the possibilities inherent in Bell’s steampunkian world, the options are really almost endless. My hope is that A Lady’s Guide takes off to grand success, and readers are treated to yet another international, spectacular adventure with her delightful characters.
Images in this review
Customer image
Peekablue
5.0 out of 5 stars A Whimsical Romp Through Victorian Europe
Reviewed in the United States on November 18, 2024
I was quite intrigued when I read the premise of this book. I've always enjoyed the story of The Nutcracker upon which this tale is loosely based. The story follows Clara as she tries, unsuccessfully, to keep her eccentric relatives in line & safe from her former fiance who needs their money to settle his own family's debts. As the story progresses, the wounded Clara learns to open her heart & trust in others. Arthur (aka Theodore) is the Nutcracker Prince who gradually wins her trust & has an unfortunate past of his own to overcome. The story is both heartwarming & amusing. I alternated between reading & listening to the audiobook, which was performed very well by Beverley Crick. Overall, this was a very enjoyable read. I look forward to reading more from this author.
Amanda
5.0 out of 5 stars Beautiful prose, endearing characters, and the sweet aroma of a godly romance
Reviewed in the United States on April 9, 2024
The first thing that stood out to me was her prose! The verbiage was beautiful and captured 1860 Londoners so well. Your POV is immediately transported back in time to such endearing characters who, if were alive, would prove quite the sarcastic and funny pair. I really enjoyed the level of teasing between the characters and how the author walks them through their various struggles. This book truly has God’s heart written throughout and teaches such beautiful truths in profound ways. Bell writes about the lies we too often believe, but need to lay down at the Father’s feet. She writes truths into her story, truths we too often forget or don’t believe because we are too wrapped up in the enemy’s lies.

Such a beautiful romance and fun story to journey through. I went ahead and purchased additional copies for some young teens and young adults in my life! 10/10 would definitely recommend!!
Mellowmom
3.0 out of 5 stars Lots of religion
Reviewed in the United States on March 27, 2024
I liked the premise of the book. The book is well written, and interesting. In my opinion there were to many references to God which detracted from the story. I was so tired of lengthy dialogue about God, I stopped reading the book. If you like that kind of thing or can overlook it read the book. A few references would have been fine, but that’s not what happened. The end was predictable.

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