BOOK BRIEF

Boneshaker (The Clockwork Century, #1)

Cherie Priest
Guide cover placeholder

Boneshaker (The Clockwork Century, #1)

Fiction | Novel | Published in 2009

Book Brief

Sparkles iconBeta
Cherie Priest

Boneshaker (The Clockwork Century, #1)

Fiction | Novel | Published in 2009
Book Details
Pages

416

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Seattle, Washington • 1880s

Publication Year

2009

Recommended Reading Age

14+ years

Lexile Level

840L

Roundup icon

Super Short Summary

Boneshaker by Cherie Priest is a steampunk novel set in an alternate 1880s Seattle. It follows a woman and her son as they navigate a city devastated by a failed drilling machine that released a dangerous gas, turning residents into zombies. Together, they confront various factions vying for control and survival within the walled city.

Reviews & Readership

3.8

34,696 ratings

54%

Loved it

32%

Mixed feelings

15%

Not a fan

Roundup icon

Review Roundup

Boneshaker by Cherie Priest offers an inventive blend of steampunk and zombie fiction, praised for its rich, immersive world-building and fast-paced plot. Despite some criticism for underdeveloped characters and occasional slow pacing, readers generally find it a thrilling and atmospheric adventure. Overall, it's a captivating read with a unique setting.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Boneshaker (The Clockwork Century, #1)?

A reader who would enjoy Boneshaker by Cherie Priest likely appreciates steampunk adventures, alternate histories, and strong heroines. Fans of The Difference Engine by William Gibson and Bruce Sterling or Leviathan by Scott Westerfeld will find similar themes and vibrant, mechanically-rich worlds.

3.8

34,696 ratings

54%

Loved it

32%

Mixed feelings

15%

Not a fan

Book Details
Pages

416

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Seattle, Washington • 1880s

Publication Year

2009

Recommended Reading Age

14+ years

Lexile Level

840L

Buy This Book

We’re just getting started

Add this title to our list of requested Study Guides!