"Vivid characters, a breathtaking story, and the promise of a sequel all come together in this alluring middle-grade fantasy." -- Booklist "Murray expertly parses out pieces of world building alongside foreshadowing for his multiple story-shattering plot twists, making this one hard to put down." -- Bulletin of the Center for Children's Books "Murray weaves an ambitious tale of paranoia, religious zealotry, and adventure. A strong sense of unexplored history combined with the dynamic characters and atmosphere offers potential for further exploration, and readers will enjoy Ellie's struggle to protect her friends and home." -- Publishers Weekly "A psychologically intricate, steampunk-infused tale that will please adventure-lovers as well." -- Horn Book Magazine "The pace never slacks in this page-turning adventure, with well-crafted twists and secrets. Murray's prose is descriptive and vivid; kids will think they are in Ellie's workshop, piled high with crab catchers, broken machines, books, notes, and unidentified items." -- School Library Journal.