Mechanica by Betsy Cornwell
Synopsis:
Nicolette’s awful stepsisters call her “Mechanica” to demean her, but the nickname fits: she learned to be an inventor at her mother’s knee. Her mom is gone now, though, and the Steps have pushed her into a life of dreary servitude. When she discovers a secret workshop in the cellar on her sixteenth birthday—and befriends Jules, a tiny magical metal horse—Nicolette starts to imagine a new life for herself. And the timing may be perfect: There’s a technological exposition and a royal ball on the horizon. Determined to invent her own happily-ever-after, Mechanica seeks to wow the prince and eager entrepreneurs alike.
Review:
Nicolette (or Mechanica) is a brilliant mechanic like her mother was. But after her parents died, Nicolette is forced to be a servant for her stepmother and stepsisters. However, she still has her little machines – and dreams of the future.
Mechanica is a fun and intriguing twist on the Cinderella story. Nicolette does fall for a young man, but this isn’t a Disney fairy tale. She has a good head on her shoulders and thinks with her head more than her heart. Full of fantastic inventions, magic, and suspense – this story is captivating. YA fantasy meets steampunk in this inspired tale with plenty of heart.