Thank you Netgalley and Titan Books for the free eArc in return for an honest review.

"When did you two learn to ride?” he asked.
“Nineteen years ago.”
“This morning.”
Caliban put his hands over his face. “We’re going to die." - This pretty much sets the tone for the book.

Turns out I love a book with a thrown together band of misfits go on an epic adventure, that is expected to end in death.
I admit, there were a few parts that I completely lost track of what was going on, but equally, there were some moments that were were really well written and captivating. Particularly the rats....
Looking forward to the next book.

The reason Kingfisher is an instant auto buy author for me is how she builds her characters, the dark humour that fits so perfectly to each cleverly crafted person is something that gives Kingfisher her unique voice, and Clockwork Boys is no different.

When convicted of treason, facing a death sentence, Slate assembles a questionable group for a suicide mission, which, if they succeed, rewards and pardons await.

- Slate - A forger with a unique gift for sniffing out magic (literally).
- Caliban - A (ex)paladin formerly possessed with a demon.
- Brenner - A murderous assassin, and Slate’s ex-lover.
- Learned Edmund - A genius scholar, with naive and sexist views.

The dialogue between Slate and Caliban is the highlight of this book for me. It’s fast paced, touching, darkly comedic and truly one of Kingfishers best works in my opinion. I devoured this book, in a few days, and I strongly recommend it to anyone who’s read any of Kingfishers previous works, or if your looking for a place to start, this is the perfect introduction.

Fantasy loves a good quest as well as the goal we usually have a great band of characters coming together, changing along the way and of course more than a few exciting adventures along the way. There have been times it has fallen a little too much into stereotypes but there are always some authors happy to play with the format. Delighted to say we can to that latter group T Kingfisher’s deliciously entertaining fantasy novel Clockwork Boys which starts a new series with a very unusual set of characters and some unexpected adventures and dangers to face.

The Dowager is at war against a magical threat from her enemies in Anuket City a rampaging advancing army known only as the Clockwork Boys. Add in a deadly plague known as the Blight and things have got very desperate. The latest plan is to send a band of skilled prisoners with nothing left to lose on a mission to find out what powers them. The lead is the smart forger Slate with a slight skill of witchy foresight, the laconic assassin Brenner who is also a skilled thief and now joining them the disgraced former paladin Sir Caliban once a famed hero who after being possessed by a demon ran amok killing part of his temple…the demon is apparently dead. They may not be the best and brightest but they’re all anyone has got.

T Kingfisher continues to be an author who combines excellent storytelling with a dash of humour, lightness and then throws in a handful of weird darkness and all combined with skilled character work and this novel sings as a read to me. While we have a quest story these aren’t the usual heroes we are expecting. Slate and Brenner are far more rogues who see crime as a business and yet now accept they must do this or be killed. Slate is funny, learning to be a leader and balancing two headstrong men who occasionally want to kill each other. Brenner and Slate have a complicated relationship and share the banter. Now we add in Caliban who is a skilled warrior, incredibly gallant and carries so so much guilt and developing feelings for Slate in a refreshing adult complicated not quite yet romance way. None of these three are from stock fantasy casting and each takes the reader focus on the page. They’re human not heroic and yet trying their best we see signs they will do the right thing (just not always perhaps the expected way). I loved the tensions, interplay, banter and developing relationships in the group. Latre on we get a young priest from a group of very intelligent geniuses who also think women are inferior. This adds to the dynamics as you’d expect in unusual ways!

Adventure wise we have the focus suitably on the group coming together and then in standard fantasy narrative a long ride awaits. Kingfisher though tries not to d the expected. Bandits here are negotiations with fellow criminals not fights. There is a stunningly strange and eerie sequence in a magical forest that links to the plot of Caliban’s demon possession in unexpected and interesting ways and we also have glimpses of vast and unknow magic. When the Clockwork Boys make their appearance, we see both the massive damage they cause and their inhuman nature. Nothing in this story feels easy. The pacing is brisk and very much in this story also focused on us getting to know out initial trio and they also getting to know each other. My one reservation is the ending feels a little sudden, Kingfisher does say in the afterword this was just one very very long novel, and this is the just the first half. Not a problem as we now know there is a second book at least in this series and I very much want to know what happens next as I sense things are about to get really interesting.

Clockwork Boys is an adventure that avoids doing the usual. Its funny, dark, romantic and has a touch of bawdiness too when needed. I love the way these contradictions work rather than overpower each other and that makes it a hugely engaging and refreshing read. I highly recommend it!

Absolutely loved this! A read in one sitting book filled with a great cast of characters, high stakes fantasy adventures, humorous shenanigans and a whole lot of heart. I love that Kingfisher has so much humour in her books (much of it laugh out loud) but they never become silly. Her plotting is tight, her world building imaginative and she always creates such a great sense of camaraderie between her misfit bunch of characters. This is a great entry point into this author’s body of work, but be warned you’ll be chafing to pick up book two immediately,

T Kingfisher never misses!! This book has her signature unique and loveable characters, the way she takes common tropes and plot lines and turns them on their head, her cool monster/creature design, and strong dose of humour. I absolutely loved it and I'm intensely upset that I will have to wait a while for book 2.

Thanks to the author, publisher, and NetGalley for the ARC.

Another delightful story from T.Kingfisher! Combining interesting characters, amazing world-building and funny dialogue, the author gives us an adventure that keeps you on your toes.

Clockwork Boys has the best kind of misfits off on a deadly adventure together. Despite the high stakes action there is humour and a lightheartedness to the writing that draws you in as a reader. I felt a strong bond with the characters almost instantly. The hint of romance is a nice added touch as well to the groups dynamics. T. Kingfisher seems to deliver such vivid and interesting characters. I don’t really mind what they are doing or the plot as the character work is so well done. Saying that the plot is interesting and felt very classic, they are on a long perilous journey and the found family theme is central to this. The story seems to abruptly end, which I wasn’t as keen on but also makes me eager to pick up the next instalment.
Definitely a great book for any fantasy adventure lover.
Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for an ARC. This is a voluntary review of my own thoughts.

This was my first ever T. Kingfisher's book, and I can assure you that this will not be my last! I thoroughly enjoyed this one, and I am already eager for the next book!

I really liked our ragtag group, formed mostly of criminals, who have been sent on an impossible misson, and I loved their humour and interactions. Slate is a fantastic character who has a great sense of humour and wit. With her danger-sensing sneezes and her ability in document forgery, Slate isn't your usual main character, but Kingfisher somehow manages to do an amazing job at making her the lead with an amazing character development

I liked seeing her friendship with Caliban grow and the banter between them. I think Caliban has the most interesting backstory, and I really liked getting to know his story and seeing how he is still coping and trying to deal with the events. I hope we get to learn a bit more about our other two members, Brenner and Learned Edmund, as I've enjoyed what we've learnt so far.

Clockwork Boys is a funny and incredibly gripping fantasy book that I had a great time reading! I definitely recommend this one to those who are looking for a smaller fantasy or are even thinking about starting their high fantasy journey!

Thank you so much to NetGalley and the publisher for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.

Today is my stop on the tour for Clockwork Boys by T.Kingfisher 💖 Thank you so much to the lovely Amy & Titan Books for my gorgeous copy and for my stunning bracelet!

I’ve heard so many good things about T.Kingfisher and after reading Clockwork Boys I completely get it and I’m so excited to dive in to all of her other books soon too!

One of my favourite things about reading this was the brilliant cast of characters! I love the trope of a group of people becoming unlikely friends and this story executed that perfectly! The banter between them all and the quips and sarcasm was so funny, I couldn’t stop laughing!
Each characters personality was so well developed and I also really enjoyed seeing the growth as well that they go through!

Also, the worldbuilding is very interesting and I’m hoping we get to explore even more of it in the sequel!

Clockwork Boys is a hilarious and delightful adventure with lots of adventure and great characters! I’m excited to see what happens next! 💖

Clockwork boys is the first book in T. Kingfisher’s new series- Clocktaur War. This short book packs a lot of punch, with plenty of memorable characters and action. As all good books do, we follow a band of (mostly) criminals who have to come together to unravel a mystery. They have to uncover the secrets of the clockwork soldiers- a mission that could cost them their lives.

It’s not a surprise but I loved T. Kingfisher’s writing in this book. As in other novellas like What moves the dead, she manages to create a full world, compelling characters and a strong plot in a very short amount of time. It is honestly because of Kingfisher that I’ve grown so fond of short fantasy stories. I appreciate a 700-page epic novel every now and again, but there is something so magical about getting sucked into a world in less than 200 pages.

I feel like this series has more in common with her Nettle and Bone book and Paladin series than some of her more recent horror and fairytale stories. There is a quest and a focus on found family which I love. Also, the steam-punk vibes are immaculate!

I would recommend this book to all fantasy fans, but particularly to people who enjoy darkly humorous books like Dreadful and rag tag groups of criminals like in Six of Cows and Five Broken Blades.

Clockwork Boys is the first book in The Clocktaur War Duology by T Kingfisher. And despite having only just finished the book last night, I am eagerly waiting for the publication of the second book in the series!
Our tale begins with Slate, a former forger who has been convicted of treason and is facing the death penalty. However, Slate earns herself a reprieve as she is capable of sniffing out magic and teams up with a paladin possessed by a demon, her murderous ex-lover, and an irritating sexist scholar. Now that's a motely crew that is bound to both cause chaos and be a lot of fun. And believe me, plenty of shenanigans are to be had in this fast-paced and fun filled tale.
To say more, would involve spoiling the tale so let's just say that you should grab a copy from your local bookshop as 'Clockwork Boys' is out today.

Clockwork Boys is my first ever step into the world of T. Kingfisher and I don’t think I could have chosen a better book. I read it over the weekend and it just hooked me straight away.

This book is the first part of two and it’s left me wanting to read the second half immediately - the writing is charming, funny, and full of high stakes.

Clockwork Boys is essentially about a ragtag group of criminals and a demon-possessed paladin on a quest to save the world, there’s high stakes, the most likeable anti-heroes, and so much good character background.

First I want to thank netgalley and titan books for this e-ARC of Clockwork Boys. I had such a good time with this!

This was such a good read. The writing was amazing. The characters were so well written. I actually really want to reread this book in summer.

T. Kingfisher is definitely starting to become an auto buy/read for me.

(Please note, this isn’t a large review as my brain just isn’t allowing me to put down the words, I want to 🙄)

Thanks to Titan Books and Netgalley for the ARC.

As I work through T. Kingfisher’s back catalog (and loving every book so far), The Clockwork Boys stood out as a refreshing change of pace. Unlike her gothic horror and fairytale-inspired stories, this one leans more into adventure with a touch of romance. It’s a compelling blend of humor, heart, and high-stakes action, wrapped in Kingfisher’s signature wit and sharp character work.

At the heart of The Clockwork Boys is its wonderfully dysfunctional ensemble cast. We have Slate, a practical, sharp-witted forger who’s spent most of her life trying to survive in a world that doesn’t leave much room for people like her. Then there’s Caliban, a disgraced paladin haunted by the remnants of a demonic possession. His solemn nature and moral struggles contrast perfectly with the rest of the group. Rounding them out is Brenner, a dryly amusing assassin who kills with unnerving efficiency but isn’t as cold as he pretends to be, and Learned Edmund, a naïve and hilariously out-of-his-depth scholar who quickly realizes his monastery hasn’t prepared him for real life.

Thrown together on a near-impossible mission, and watching them clash, grow, and begrudgingly form a bond is one of the book’s biggest strengths. Their interactions are full of sharp dialogue, reluctant camaraderie, and moments of surprising vulnerability. Kingfisher does a fantastic job of showing how they bring out both the best and worst in each other—whether it’s through biting banter, unexpected kindness, or deep-seated personal wounds that come to the surface.

With its mix of adventure, character-driven storytelling, and just a hint of romance, The Clockwork Boys is a fantastic entry point into this part of Kingfisher’s world. Titan Books is releasing it with a new cover in the UK this month, making now the perfect time to pick it up. And if you enjoy this one, you’ll want to continue with The Wonder Engine before diving into Swordheart and the Paladin books.

Another cracking read from T. Kingfisher that I loved.

Thank you to T. Kingfisher, Titan Books, and NetGalley for the e-arc in exchange for an honest review.

The premise was interesting and the beginning was promising until… literally nothing happened for half the book. The characters seemed to just be sitting / standing / disappearing / twiddling their thumbs. No fantasy / sci-fi elements or adventuring to be seen, just badly forced romance that didn’t work. The writing style itself was good though, just a shame the plot / characterisation let it down. I had to dnf at 40% and I’m glad because it seems the book actually cuts off before any real action happens. I’ll definitely try their other books.

I am biased when ever I read a Kingfisher book because I usually love their writing. They often mange to combine a bit of comedy into whatever they write and it’s usually very unique. I’m glad to say that is true of Clockwork Boys. I adored the motley cast of characters that are brought to life with Kingfisher’s usual flair. The story keeps you hooked and wanting to read more. I am also a sucker for anything a bit steampunk like and it certainly had elements of that. This is a must read for fans of Kingfisher or fantasy who love unique characters and a compelling story.
As always thank you to Titan Books for the advanced copy to review, my reviews are always honest and freely given.

We're back in the world of Paladins and the Dreaming God in this story and I completely ate it up. I love this world, and it was a nice twist to see it from the angle of outcasts and criminals this time. This unusual group made up of a master of forgery, a deadly assassin, an ex-knight, and a young scholar brings a real mix of personalities and dynamics on this dangerous journey, one they don't expect to return from. This book gets off to a strong start, bringing some curiosity and a little magic from the beginning, and keeps delivering as it progresses. There's plenty of humour, great banter, and interesting characters that really drew me in. It's safe to say, this is another T Kingfisher book that completely hooked me into its story and its characters. We don't necessarily get too far into the heart of the story just yet, so it did feel a little early to finish where it did but I also understand the reasoning and it doesn't take away from how much I enjoyed it - it only means I was left wondering what was going to happen when I next picked up the book and realising that I'd have to wait for the sequel. I really hope it's not a long wait because I can't wait to pick up this adventure where we left off, find out what Slate's ominous hints were about, and see if they add any more people to their rag tag bunch.

I received a free copy of this book. All views are my own.

This is my first T. Kingfisher book and I went in excited for adventure....then I got bored of waiting.
The adventure doesn't really start until 40%, prior to that there's a lot of explaining and set up. I almost gave up.
Once it gets started it's ok. A little adventure, a few fantasy creatures and the titular Clockwork boys all make an appearance.
The mix match group gets better as the story goes. The attempt romance element feels a little forced and awkward, I don't think it added anything to the story.
My main issue with the book was the POV it was told from. Sort of a 3rd person point of view with insight into most characters thinking. It was a little jarring at first and different from other narratives I've read.
This book ends at a half way point of the characters journey without a cliffhanger. Will I read book 2? Maybe
Grab this book for a slow journey or a weekend read. Pack tissues for the sneezing.

I haven't been as eager to pick up a book and get immersed in it for a while! Kingfisher is a better fantasy writer than she is a horror one, but her fantasy works best if she adds some uncanny to it. If you only read one Kingfisher book, make it Nettle&Bone, but The Clockwork Boys, her older novel due to be published in the UK this week, does something in my opinion equally valuable - it provides exactly what I am in the mood for.

The author does not hide the main influences on the novel - Neverwinter Nights and Dragon Age. Reading this book felt like an old-school Bioware RPG-lite experience. We have quite established tropes - a thief, an assassin, a paladin, and a scholar go on and quest - but Kingfisher managed to bring them to life and make me care about them, if not about their world. I felt like this is a particular playthrough of a mutilate choice game; the reader can even pinpoint where a video game writing team would have placed decision-making opportunities. You can even see the different romance options (with Slate, the protagonist, quite clearly choosing a particular one of those). A Bioware game would have had much more time to develop the story and the lore, so TCB feels much thinner on the ground.

Whilst Slate and Caliban came across as three-dimensional enough, I wish Brenner and Learned Edmund were a bit more fleshed out. From Zevran to Astarion, the neutral/evil charismatic rogue is my favourite type of character in these kinds of stories, but Brenner didn't get enough of a chance to shine. The world itself also needs a bit more depth, and whilst I liked the whole artificer focus, I am looking forward to more of it. The world came to life when Kingfisher chose to add something a bit more macabre to it (the dancing rat corpses were particularly memorable), and I hope she brings together her fantasy and horror sides a bit more in the second volume (yes, it is a duology, although old-school fantasy writers would have easily made this length of a text into one volume).

I chose to read this book because I am currently obsessed with BG3, and it delivered. It does not offer anything innovative, but it is really well executed.

4.75/5
This was a reread for me as I have read the Indie pub version...and no surprise, I still love it! Do a lot of T. Kingfisher male love interests blend together? Sure, but I eat it up every time! I also think this duology could've been one book, so the ending is pretty abrupt, but those are my only complaints.

Slate is tasked with the suicide mission of trying to stop the Clockwork Boys, mechanized soldiers who are wreaking havoc. She sets out with an assassin who had a fling with her in the past, an ex-paladin who is possessed by a demon and accidentally killed a bunch of nuns, and a very prudish scholar. Of course, there are many obstacles along the way and there is a lot of mutual pining between her and Sir Caliban, the hot ex-paladin. Caliban also has to come to terms with what it means to have been cast out of his order and forsaken by his god. Slate has to come to terms with the fact that she doesn't actually want to die and probably will at some point in their quest. I'm excited to see where the next book picks up!

Fun, funny in only the way that T. Kingfisher books are, sometimes disturbing, and always adventurous, this is a must read for fans of lighthearted fantasy.