Step into the steam-powered world of Magnificent Devices, where airships soar, gadgets whir, and a fearless heroine defies Victorian norms! Shelley Adina’s beloved steampunk series, spanning 14 books, follows Lady Claire Trevelyan, a young woman whose intellect and courage make her the 'Lady of Devices.' Blending adventure, romance, and alternate history, this series captivates readers with its vivid world and empowering themes.
Set in an alternate 1889 London where combustion engines flopped and steam rules, Magnificent Devices offers a delightful mix of historical fiction, fantasy, and steampunk flair. Claire’s journey from society debutante to ingenious leader hooks readers with its wit, heart, and swashbuckling fun.
How Magnificent Devices Began
Shelley Adina, a USA Today bestselling author with a PhD in Creative Writing, launched Magnificent Devices in 2011 with Lady of Devices. Inspired by her love for steampunk’s blend of Victorian elegance and technological wonder, Adina crafted a world where steam-powered devices drive adventure. Her goal? To create a strong, relatable heroine who challenges societal norms while embracing science and friendship. Adina’s background in romance and Amish fiction adds depth to the series’ emotional core.
The Heart of Magnificent Devices
The series kicks off with Lady of Devices, where Claire, a 17-year-old Blood (aristocrat), loses her fortune and must rely on her wits to survive London’s gritty streets. Leading a band of ragamuffins, she embraces her engineering talents. Her Own Devices follows Claire’s rise as an inventor, navigating romance and danger. Magnificent Devices, the third book, takes her on a perilous airship journey to the Americas, while Brilliant Devices resolves a cliffhanger with thrilling action and colonial critiques.
Themes of female empowerment, social inequality, and scientific discovery shine throughout. Claire’s defiance of Victorian gender roles—she’d rather tinker in a lab than sip tea—resonates with readers. The series’ alternate Victorian setting, divided into Wits (intellect-driven) and Bloods (inheritance-driven), adds depth, with steampunk gadgets like lightning rifles and airships fueling the adventure. Adina’s light, humorous tone and vivid prose make the era feel immersive yet accessible.
Why Magnificent Devices Resonates
Magnificent Devices has carved a niche in steampunk, earning praise for its strong heroines and family-friendly themes. Fans on Goodreads rave about its 'swashbucklingly good fun' and anti-sexist messages, with Claire as a standout protagonist. The series’ blend of action, romance, and social commentary appeals to teens and adults alike, inspiring readers to embrace their inner ingenuity. Its lasting appeal lies in its celebration of resilience and community.
- Publication Years: 2011–2018
- Number of Books: 14
- Awards: Shelley Adina won the RWA RITA Award in 2005 (unrelated to series)
Grab Lady of Devices and dive into the steampunk adventure of Magnificent Devices today! Join Claire’s flock for a ride full of heart, humor, and high-flying heroics!