Set just before World War I, there are two sides to be on in this steampunk-themed series by Scott Westerfield: the Clankers or the Darwinists. The Clankers make their war machines using their amazing mechanical skills. The Darwinists have managed to create all new “beasties” to create living war machines. Deryn is a girl pretending to be a boy so that she can be part of the British Naval Service. Alek is the son of Prince Ferdinand, who was just assassinated. Each side has its own advantage and its own goal. Each main character has his or her own secret. The suspense and secrets are the best parts!
