In the series 'Leviathan' by Scott Westerfeld, the book 'Behemoth' takes readers to an alternate history of WWI where Darwinists with genetically fabricated creatures clash with Clankers and their mechanical inventions. The story follows the adventures of Deryn, a girl disguised as a boy in the military, and Alek, a prince in hiding after his parents were assassinated. Set in Istanbul, the plot involves diplomacy, sabotage, revolution, and tricky decisions about loyalties. The narrative is filled with epic battles, shocking twists, and a blend of historical facts altered to fit the steampunk world created by Westerfeld.

Characters:

Characters are well-developed, with Deryn as a fierce protagonist and Alek as a reluctant hero, supported by a cast that adds intrigue.

Writing/Prose:

The writing style is fast-paced and descriptive, creating a vivid and engaging narrative that enhances the story's adventurous tone.

Plot/Storyline:

The narrative continues the adventures of Alek and Deryn in a politically charged Istanbul, focusing on their efforts to influence the outcomes of World War I.

Setting:

Set in Istanbul, the story immerses readers in a culturally rich and politically charged environment.

Pacing:

The pacing is generally fast, though some may find portions slower as the plot develops.

Deryn hefted her own weapon, studying Alek’s pose. His feet were splayed at right angles, his left arm sticking out behind like the handle of a teacup. His fencing armor made him look like a walking q...

Notes:

Behemoth is the second book in the Leviathan trilogy by Scott Westerfeld.

The story is set in an alternate history during World War I.

The book features Darwinist countries that use genetically engineered creatures for war, in contrast to Clanker countries that rely on mechanical technology.

Deryn Sharp disguises herself as a boy to serve in the British Royal Air Service.

Alek is a fugitive prince from Austria-Hungary trying to evade capture.

The setting shifts to Istanbul, which adds political intrigue to the plot.

New characters, such as the revolutionary girl Lilit, are introduced.

The book is noted for its imaginative creatures, including a species referred to as 'shrapnel pooping bats.'

Illustrations by Keith Thompson accompany the text, enhancing the visuals of the steampunk world.

The relationship between Deryn and Alek develops amid the chaos of war and personal secrets.

Readers praised the action sequences and world-building.

Behemoth includes discussions about historical events and their alteration in the narrative.

The main conflict centers around Alek and Deryn's efforts to prevent the Ottoman Empire from siding with Germany.

Has Romance?

There is a moderate level of romantic tension primarily between Alek and Deryn, with the complications arising from Deryn's disguise.

From The Publisher:

The behemoth is the fiercest creature in the British navy. It can swallow enemy battleships with one bite. The Darwinists will need it, now that they are at war with the Clanker Powers.

Deryn is a girl posing as a boy in the British Air Service, and Alek is the heir to an empire posing as a commoner. Finally together aboard the airship Leviathan, they hope to bring the war to a halt. But when disaster strikes the Leviathan's peacekeeping mission, they find themselves alone and hunted in enemy territory.

Alek and Deryn will need great skill, new allies, and brave hearts to face what's ahead.

Ratings (15)

Incredible (6)
Loved It (4)
Liked It (4)
It Was OK (1)

Reader Stats (24):

Read It (16)
Want To Read (5)
Not Interested (3)

What can you read after
Behemoth?

About the Author:

Scott Westerfeld is the author of the Leviathan series, the first book of which was the winner of the 2010 Locus Award for Best Young Adult Fiction. His other novels include the New York Times bestseller Afterworlds, the worldwide bestselling Uglies series, The Last Days, Peeps, So Yesterday, and the Midnighters trilogy. Visit him at ScottWesterfeld.com or follow him on Twitter at @ScottWesterfeld.

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Behemoth

Scott Westerfeld

Book 2 in the series:Leviathan