Steampunk is a genre that intertwines the elegance of Victorian era fashion with the innovation and contraptions of science fiction! It’s a world full of gears, steam-powered gadgets, and endless possibilities.To help you build up a head of steam, we’ve compiled a list of the 5 best steampunk books ever. So, click in and get ready to whir into the imaginative world of steampunk.
The Diamond Age by Neal Stephenson – Classic Steampunk
The book that predicted the e-reader. Seriously! In this thrilling novel, nanotechnology has taken over the world. In the distant future, social classes have divided society based on ethnicity and income. The story follows a young girl who, after receiving a magical book filled with stories and adventures. As she navigates her way through the book’s contents, she unlocks the mysteries of her society and discovers her place in the world. This steampunk novel is a must-read for lovers of technology and adventure. Read it (on Kindle of course) here.
Leviathan by Scott Westerfeld
This alternate history novel combines steampunk and diesel-punk elements to create a fantastical world of airships and war. During World War I, the Central Powers created animal-shaped machines named Clankers, while genetically engineered animals served as weapons for the Allied Powers. Caught in the middle of the ongoing war, the young midshipman named Alek uses his intelligence and ingenuity to survive and become the protagonist. This book is a page-turner and a great introduction to the world of steampunk for newbies. Grab Leviathan here.
Perdido Street Station by China Mieville
This mesmerizing novel brilliantly embodies the essence of steampunk. Science and machinery power the impossible in this fantastical industrial city that serves as the backdrop for the story. The main character, a rogue scientist named Isaac, sets out to reverse a horrifying mistake he made with a dangerous experimental creature. Full of vivid characters and stunning world-building, this novel is a must-read for any steampunk fan. We recommend the amazing steampunk audiobook for this one! Find it here on Audible.
Soulless by Gail Carriger
On Goodreads, readers rank Soulless as the best steampunk book ever! The protagonist, a young woman named Alexia, has a rare condition of having no soul, which makes her immune to supernatural powers. After accidentally killing a vampire, she finds herself entangled in a perilous conspiracy that involves the supernatural world. This book is a cleverly written and delightful read. Get onto it here.
Boneshaker by Cherie Priest
This novel is set in an alternate history version of Seattle where the Civil War has never ended, and the city is filled with a poisonous gas that turns people into zombie-like creatures. The protagonist, a mother named Briar, embarks on a dangerous journey to find her son who has gone inside the city’s walls in search of a mysterious machine. The book is filled with action, adventure, and heart-pumping horror. This book is a must-read for those who love a good zombie apocalypse story with a steampunk twist. The start of one of the best steampunk series you’ll ever likely to encounter.
Get the first in the series here.
And there you have it! The 5 best steampunk books ever to transport you to a thrilling and fantastical world. Whether you’re a long-time fan of steampunk or a newbie, these books are guaranteed to keep you hooked till the very end. Moreover, their distinctive fusion of alternate history and science fiction results in a truly captivating read. So, with a cup of tea in hand, sit back, relax, and let the imaginative world of steampunk get your gears turning. Happy reading!