The Parasol Protectorate #3: Blameless Review

Title: The Parasol Protectorate #3: Blameless

Author: Gail Carriger

Date of Publication: September 1, 2010

Formats Available: Mass Market Paperback, E-Book

Note: This review may contain mild spoilers from the previous books, Soulless and Changeless

Synopsis: After moving back in with her repulsive family and being removed from Queen Victoria's Shadow Council Lady Alexia Maccon is the subject of the majority of London's society gossip. In addition the vampires are trying to kill her, Lord Akeldama has left town, and her husband continues to become more and more intoxicated. Deciding that its best to leave town herself Alexia gathers her traveling companions, Madame Lefoux and her father's butler Floote, and embarks to Italy to find the Templars. Only the Templars have the resources to tell Alexia what she really is, explain her inconvenient condition, and most of all prove her husband wrong.

My Review:

Full of action and wit Blameless does not disappoint. While the romantic storyline is all but non-existent what the novel lacks in romance is made up with intense action and an engaging plot. One of the most fast paced plots of the series there is hardly a dull moment, especially with Alexia and her parasol handy.

I adore Carriger's writing style, very proper and eloquent; Alexia manages to remain dignified in even the most excruciating of circumstances. From Lord Akeldama's every other italicized word to Floote's few serious admissions, each of the characters has their own humorous voice. With each book these voices become more defined, adding depth of character and making me laugh along the way.

Professor Lyall really had his chance to shine in this volume, taking care of Lord Maccon all the while figuring out why Lord Akeldama left town and why the vampires are after Alexia. Blameless switched perspectives between Alexia and Professor Lyall giving us an idea of whats going on in the underappreciated beta's head. I really like Professor Lyall's character; I would love to see him acquire a love interest! Hopefully there will be more from his perspective in future novels.

A wonderfully steampunk novel, Blameless is a fantastic addition to the Parasol Protectorate series. One of the most unique writers of paranormal romance Carriger delivers a novel that is impossible to put down! The Parasol Protectorate series definitely should not be missed.

4/5