[Audiobook review] The Dark Unwinding by Sharon Cameron

The Dark Unwinding
Sharon Cameron
September 1, 2012
Scholastic Press


Amazon/Book Depository/B&N

When Katharine Tulman's inheritance is called into question by the rumor that her eccentric uncle is squandering away the family fortune, she is sent to his estate to have him committed to an asylum. But instead of a lunatic, Katharine discovers a genius inventor with his own set of rules, who employs a village of nine hundred people rescued from the workhouses of London.

Katharine is now torn between protecting her own inheritance and preserving the peculiar community she grows to care for deeply. And her choices are made even more complicated by a handsome apprentice, a secretive student, and fears for her own sanity.

As the mysteries of the estate begin to unravel, it is clear that not only is her uncle's world at stake, but also the state of England as Katharine knows it. With twists and turns at every corner, this heart-racing adventure will captivate readers with its intrigue, thrills, and romance.

This book was described as mysterious, spooky, and steampunk. If the only thing you are basing steampunk on is clockwork and steam powered machines then I guess it has a steampunk element. For me this book this book is more of a spooky gaslight mystery like Turn of the Screw. Someone is trying to make Kathrine think she is crazy.

Kathrine is sent to her creepy uncle's estate to determine if he should be sent to the asylum. Her wretched aunt thinks he is squandering the money. When she gets there she discovers that her uncle's estate is actually a small township and sending him away could destroy the lives of more than just her uncle. Kathrine starts seeing things, sleepwalking, and even biting herself. All things that make Kathrine think she is going insane.

I liked this book, it was creepy and there were parts that spooked me. I thought the mystery was well executed because I never saw it coming. That being, there were parts that were boring and it waseasy to put the audiobook down and walkaway. I loved the ending when they give the aunt what for. I was intrigued by the world Kathrine lives in, and I will be checking out the next book. I am interested to find out what happened to Kathrine's friend and possible love interest and why he left. I give The Dark Unwinding three laser pistols for being held in a stable orbit.