The Watchmaker of Filigree Street

Natasha Pulley creates a rich world with The Watchmaker of Filigree Street. It combines historical fact with fantasy. Multiple times I found myself looking up specifics to find that yes, that character existed, or that event happened. I began listening to this book as a library audiobook, but the sheer number of characters and time frames and locations made me pause, and buy the hardcopy. The language is rich and I found it much easier and more enjoyable to actually read this one.

Although I have no regrets about reading it as there is much to like, I was not grabbed like I hoped I would be. It was all very well crafted but I rarely climbed inside the characters. I felt like I was looking at them from a distance. I think that distance is what kept me picking up other books to read concurrently while I read this one. The gay romance is handled extremely vaguely – as is its consummation. After such longing and plotting from both characters, one at least wants a conversation between them that vocalizes their new relationship and their feelings… except for a brief reference to a hug and waking up together, that’s pretty much all we know about their burgeoning relationship moving forward. Additionally a secondary character makes a crazy choice that seemed significantly out of character, and its resolution was just odd. So… the book was enjoyable, but the ending was not as satisfying as one might hope. Again, much to enjoy but keep your expectations in check. You will pick up some history with regard to London’s relationship with Japan at the end of the nineteenth century. There is a sequel which I purchased at the same time… I will get to it eventually.

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For readers of Jonathan Strange & Mr. Norrell, an enchanting, bestselling novel that sweeps readers into a magical Victorian London inhabited by a clockwork octopus and a mysterious watchmaker who is not at all what he first appears.

1883. Thaniel Steepleton returns home to his tiny London apartment to find a gold pocket watch on his pillow. Six months later, the mysterious timepiece saves his life, drawing him away from a blast that destroys Scotland Yard. At last, he goes in search of its maker, Keita Mori, a kind, lonely immigrant from Japan. Although Mori seems harmless, a chain of unexplainable events soon suggests he must be hiding something. When Grace Carrow, an Oxford physicist, unwittingly interferes, Thaniel is torn between opposing loyalties.

The Watchmaker of Filigree Street is a sweeping, atmospheric narrative that takes the reader on an unexpected journey through Victorian London, Japan as its civil war crumbles long-standing traditions, and beyond. Blending historical events with dazzling flights of fancy, it opens doors to a strange and magical past.

The Purple Fantastic Steam Rating gives this a 1 out of 5. The book does vaguely hint that sexuality exists.  You can read more about the Steam Ratings on the About Page.