Step into the steam-powered, artifact-charged world of Artifact Hunters, where Victorian England buzzes with ancient relics, daring adventures, and a touch of romance! Crafted by A.W. Exley, this spellbinding series blends historical fiction with fantasy, following the fearless Cara Devon as she hunts powerful artifacts in a world of mechanical marvels. With its vivid steampunk setting and gripping tales, Artifact Hunters has enchanted readers globally, offering a thrilling escape into a reimagined past.
Exley’s unique mix of mythology, mystery, and Victorian flair makes this series a standout in historical fantasy. Whether you’re a fan of Gail Carriger’s wit or Bec McMaster’s action, Artifact Hunters delivers a fresh, feisty heroine and a world where every relic holds a secret. Ready to explore this gaslamp adventure? Let’s dive in!
How Artifact Hunters Began
A.W. Exley, a New Zealand-based author with a passion for history and Egyptology, birthed Artifact Hunters from her love of Victorian settings and fantastical storytelling. A former forensic accountant, Exley traded numbers for novels, drawing inspiration from her studies of hieroglyphics and a childhood spent lost in library books. Launched in 2013 with Nefertiti’s Heart, the series grew from her desire to weave steampunk inventions with ancient myths, creating a vibrant alternate history that feels both familiar and fantastical.
The Heart of Artifact Hunters
The series kicks off with Nefertiti’s Heart (2013), where Cara Devon, a bold and broken heroine, hunts a legendary diamond tied to Queen Nefertiti, rumored to grant immortality. A killer stalking London’s nobility complicates her mission, blending mystery with high-stakes adventure. Hatshepsut’s Collar (2013) sees Cara racing to save Nathaniel Lyons from Queen Victoria’s wrath, battling an Egyptian necklace driving the queen to megalomania. Nero’s Fiddle (2014) ups the ante with spontaneous human combustion linked to a Roman relic, while The Unicorn’s Tail (2014), a novella, explores Cara’s friend Amy Hamilton’s romantic self-discovery.
Artifact Hunters thrives on its rich themes: empowerment, as Cara overcomes her traumatic past; the clash of technology and magic, with steampunk airships and mythical artifacts; and romance, woven subtly through Cara’s evolving bond with Nathaniel. Exley’s Victorian England is a character itself, alive with mechanical wonders and societal intrigue, grounded in historical detail yet elevated by fantastical elements like dragons and cursed relics. The series’ fast-paced style and vivid characters draw comparisons to The Mummy films, blending action, lore, and heart.
Why Artifact Hunters Resonates
Artifact Hunters has carved a niche in the steampunk and historical fantasy genres, captivating fans with its fearless heroine and imaginative world-building. Readers praise Exley’s ability to balance gritty action with emotional depth, making Cara a relatable, inspiring figure. The series’ global reach and glowing reviews—often likened to Lara Croft in an alternate Victorian era—highlight its appeal as escapist yet meaningful storytelling. Though only nine books long, its passionate fanbase clamors for more, cementing Exley’s status as a rising star in fantasy.
Its lasting charm lies in its blend of history and myth, offering a fresh lens on Victorian England that feels both nostalgic and innovative. For readers craving adventure with a side of romance, Artifact Hunters remains a hidden gem that sparks the imagination.
- Publication Years: 2013–2020
- Number of Books: 9 (6 main novels, 3 novellas)
- Genres: Steampunk, Historical Fantasy, Romance, Mystery
Grab Nefertiti’s Heart and dive into Artifact Hunters’ thrilling steampunk world! Join Cara Devon on her quest for ancient relics and discover why fans can’t get enough of this gaslamp adventure.