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H. L. Burke
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Nyssa Glass and the House of Mirrors: Book 1 in the Nyssa Glass Steampunk Series Kindle Edition

by H. L. Burke (Author) Format: Kindle Edition
4.5 out of 5 stars 282 ratings
Book 1 in the Nyssa Glass Steampunk Series Nyssa Glass is a reformed cat burglar turned electrician's apprentice, settled into a life repairing videophones and radio-sets. However, when her past comes calling, she finds herself forced into one last job. No one has entered Professor Dalhart's secluded mansion in almost a decade, at least not and returned to tell the tale. If Nyssa wants to ensure her freedom, she'll brave the booby trapped halls and mechanized maids. Nyssa has skills, but this house has more than its share of secrets. As she steps into the cobwebbed halls lined with dusty mirrors, she has to wonder. Is the House of Mirrors really abandoned? A Novella
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  1. Reading age
    10 - 18 years
  2. Book 1 of 5
    Nyssa Glass
  3. Print length
    159 pages
  4. Language
    English
  5. Publication date
    March 19, 2016
  6. Page Flip
    Enabled
  7. Word Wise
    Enabled
  8. Enhanced typesetting
    Enabled
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Editorial Reviews

Review

The author's chosen style is most like Steampunk, though with her own personal spin on the conventions of that genre which worked well for me. The level of scientific and technological accomplishment was a perfect complement to Nyssa's skills and abilities. Both feel entirely credible and I was fully immersed in the tale. I particularly liked the approach towards mechanical intelligence was handled - a very different route to our society's, or indeed what I choose for my own writing - but it is a persuasive and compelling alternative. There is a point where curious enquiry of possibilities gives way to the horrified realisation of reality, and this is handled particularly well.--Richard Abbott thereview2014.blogspot.co.uk/A steam-punk heist story, this is notable for Nyssa's sharp wit, the crackling dialogue, and some excellent writing. A great adventure for most speculative fiction readers, and suitable for all readers but young children. --Croydon Citizen via Book Angel UK
The story oozes with elaborate gadgets and the quirkiness of details (vehicles, clothes, machines) is both fascinating and scary. The use of artificial intelligence and robotics will probably be a thrill for the geeks among readers, although for me, it was their human aspect which interested me most.--Readers Review Room

Product details

  • ASIN ‏ : ‎ B01BZRI4Z4
  • Publisher ‏ : ‎ (March 19, 2016)
  • Publication date ‏ : ‎ March 19, 2016
  • Language ‏ : ‎ English
  • File size ‏ : ‎ 578 KB
  • Simultaneous device usage ‏ : ‎ Unlimited
  • Text-to-Speech ‏ : ‎ Enabled
  • Screen Reader ‏ : ‎ Supported
  • Enhanced typesetting ‏ : ‎ Enabled
  • X-Ray ‏ : ‎ Not Enabled
  • Word Wise ‏ : ‎ Enabled
  • Print length ‏ : ‎ 159 pages
  • Page numbers source ISBN ‏ : ‎ 1530155444
  • Customer Reviews:
    4.5 out of 5 stars 282 ratings

About the author

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H. L. Burke

H. L. Burke

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Born in a small town in north central Oregon, H. L. Burke spent most of her childhood around trees and farm animals and was always accompanied by a book. Growing up with epic heroes from Middle Earth and Narnia keeping her company, she also became an incurable romantic.

An addictive personality, she jumped from one fandom to another, being at times completely obsessed with various books, movies, or television series (Lord of the Rings, Star Wars, and Star Trek all took their turns), but she has grown to be what she considers a well-rounded connoisseur of geek culture.

Married to her high school crush who is now a retired US Marine, she has moved multiple times in her adult life but believes that home is wherever her husband, two daughters, and pets are.

She is the author of The Supervillain Rehabilitation Project Superhero Universe, the Award Winning (2016 Realm Award for Young Adult Fiction) Nyssa Glass Steampunk series, and MG/Fantasy "Cora and the Nurse Dragon," among others.

Customer reviews

4.5 out of 5 stars
282 global ratings

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Customers say

Customers enjoy this exciting YA steampunk adventure, describing it as a compelling mystery with a fast-paced plot that keeps readers up late reading. The book features an intrepid heroine, with one review highlighting Hart's impish personality, and customers find the writing style smooth and easy to relate to. They appreciate the humor and creativity, with one review noting Nyssa's sharp mind for mechanics, and find it suitable for both young adults and adults.

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58 customers mention "Enjoyment"58 positive0 negative

Customers find the book entertaining, describing it as a fascinating romp and exciting YA steampunk adventure.

"...The rest of the characters, who shall not be named whatsoever, are awesome, well-developed, and I fell in love with them (the good ones anyway)...." Read more

"...If I have a quibble with this very entertaining book it is simply that I would have liked the characters of the villains to be developed a little..." Read more

"...Final Verdict: Nyssa Glass and the House of Mirrors is an engrossing novella with a well-written heroine, a dynamic narrative, and a thoroughly..." Read more

"...Hart is fun and intriguing from the start, and while I guessed the truth about him early on, it was still very satisfying to see how his story..." Read more

48 customers mention "Suspense"45 positive3 negative

Customers enjoy the compelling steampunk mystery in this book, appreciating its intrigue and hints of mystery, with one customer noting the rewarding twist at the end.

"...I don’t usually read mystery, but I enjoyed the hint of mystery that Burke included in the book. It was just great all the way around...." Read more

"...is a solid 4.5 star novel with a smoothly written narrative, a well-plotted storyline and an intriguing heroine. I have no trouble recommending it." Read more

"...Mirrors is an engrossing novella with a well-written heroine, a dynamic narrative, and a thoroughly satisfying conclusion that will leave steampunk..." Read more

"...Not only does Burke create an intricate world full of interesting tech, but the technology also plays into the plot in ways that create a unique and..." Read more

38 customers mention "Character development"38 positive0 negative

Customers appreciate the character development in the book, describing the heroine as an intrepid and fun character to follow, with one customer particularly noting the impish personality of Hart.

"...I would. I adored Nyssa and the other good characters...." Read more

"...horror, and romance to fashion an interesting read with a winsome heroine. Nyssa has a shady past, which is not entirely her fault...." Read more

"...and the House of Mirrors is a quick-witted steampunk treat with a likable heroine, an intriguing set-up, and a finale that delivers a full..." Read more

"...interesting worlds, thought-provoking questions, and quirky, memorable characters." Read more

23 customers mention "Pacing"23 positive0 negative

Customers enjoy the book's pacing, describing it as a quick-moving plot that kept them up reading late, making it a light read.

"...There are lighter moments and there's a bit of romance as well, which is true of most of Burke's books...." Read more

"...It's a quick, entertaining read and I basically finished it in one sitting. I wanted more...." Read more

"...topics as identity and what it means to be human, Burke weaves a fast-paced tale that keeps your reading and rooting for her young heroine to..." Read more

"...A very fast-paced book that kept me up way too late so that I read it all in one sitting because I couldn’t put it down." Read more

23 customers mention "Writing style"23 positive0 negative

Customers appreciate the writing style of the book, describing it as smoothly written and creative, with one customer noting how the descriptive prose immerses readers in the world.

"...That said, this is a solid 4.5 star novel with a smoothly written narrative, a well-plotted storyline and an intriguing heroine...." Read more

"...Glass and the House of Mirrors is an engrossing novella with a well-written heroine, a dynamic narrative, and a thoroughly satisfying conclusion..." Read more

"...and her intelligence and heart make her interesting and easy to root for...." Read more

"...Very light Christianity woven throughout, but not preachy. Very well written. Loved it!..." Read more

12 customers mention "Adult content"12 positive0 negative

Customers appreciate the book's content, noting it is suitable for both youths and adults, with one customer describing it as a refreshing read for adults.

"...Highly recommended for readers teenage and above who like interesting worlds, thought-provoking questions, and quirky, memorable characters." Read more

"...This book is well suited for young adults who like a thriller. By Christina Morley and posted on Amanda's Books and More" Read more

"...This was such a sweet story! Very light Christianity woven throughout, but not preachy. Very well written. Loved it!..." Read more

"...What a wonderful, young adult novella...." Read more

12 customers mention "Creativity"12 positive0 negative

Customers appreciate the creativity of the book, finding Nyssa clever and intelligent, with one customer noting her sharp mind for mechanics and another highlighting her interesting combination of intelligence and heart.

"...of the characters, who shall not be named whatsoever, are awesome, well-developed, and I fell in love with them (the good ones anyway)...." Read more

"...Nyssa is an appealing character. She's smart, seems to have her head on straight, and she is determined to "do the right thing." The system,..." Read more

"...determination to escape it are compelling, and her intelligence and heart make her interesting and easy to root for...." Read more

"...xP Because Nyssa was so amazing. I want to be Nyssa. Another character who was really amazing was Hart...." Read more

8 customers mention "Humor"8 positive0 negative

Customers enjoy the humor in the book, with one mentioning Hart's hilarious writing style.

"...Nyssa Glass is a typical steampunk heroine: snarky, spunky, and mechanically-minded...." Read more

"...recommend to any lovers of steampunk, sci-fi, exciting adventures, sarcasm, computers, or amazing characters. ~Kellyn Roth" Read more

"...There is humor in this story, as well as sadness and joy, and many, many thrills and hold-your-breath moments...." Read more

"...Hart is utterly hilarious and his sarcarsm is endearing. The banter filled interactions between he and Nyssa are very natural...." Read more

Top reviews from the United States

  • Paige @ Between Reality
    5.0 out of 5 stars Amazing Journey with Great Characters
    Reviewed in the United States on October 3, 2016
    Verified Purchase
    Review Originally Posted on Between Reality

    Oh my. Ohhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh my. I liked this book. I bought this last month because the synopsis had me interested and wow, Burke didn’t disappoint me. An excellent blend of adventure, mystery, and romance. Oh, I am swooning.

    I THINK I’M IN LOVE WITH A COMPUTER. That’s all I can say about that, no spoilers, sorry.😉

    Honestly, I hate a lot of 5 star books. Do you know why? Because I love them. And because I love them the review isn’t as fun because a) I didn’t write any notes because I didn’t have any complaints so I am totally writing by memory, b) it’s a lot more fun to write a negative review, and c) I never like to write 5 star reviews because it just kinda taints the book for me. Not really in a bad way, but just in an “it’s over” way. But no matter, I will write about this wonderful book.

    Nyssa Glass and the House of Mirrors was kind of like a short story. It’s 154 pages, but I read it pretty quickly. It also strikes me as a short story because there’s no character development and there isn’t a ton of backstory for the characters. None of that detracted from the plot, the characters, or the book as a whole though.

    I love Nyssa. Nyssa is, to quote one of my notes, “chill.” She has an amazing set of abilities, even though her former job isn’t exactly a conventional nine-to-five, and she just wants a fresh start. She’s granted it and loves her job and then, like the synopsis says, she’s forced into her past life for one last time. Nyssa honestly is really cool and I liked how she rolls with situations and the way she thinks and deals with her quirks. I can see why anyone would like her as a friend and as a little more.

    The rest of the characters, who shall not be named whatsoever, are awesome, well-developed, and I fell in love with them (the good ones anyway).

    The plot was great too and I enjoyed it. I truly didn’t guess anything and I was intrigued throughout the whole book. The romance was just as great too, subtle, but obvious too (if that makes any sense at all) and I enjoyed it.

    This review is short, I can’t even lie. It’s hard to write a review about a book I really enjoyed because there isn’t anything to rant about or to hate on or anything of that nature. I just loved it, guys. I just really loved it. It’s the kind of book you buy as a paperback, specifically a paperback, curl up in your favorite reading spot with a cup of hot chocolate or tea, and let it take you on a wonderful journey.

    Would I Recommend Nyssa Glass and the House of Mirrors? I would. I adored Nyssa and the other good characters. I don’t usually read mystery, but I enjoyed the hint of mystery that Burke included in the book. It was just great all the way around.
    One person found this helpful
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  • Mike Billington author of Murder in the Rainy Season
    4.0 out of 5 stars A smoothly written narrative with an intriguing heroine
    Reviewed in the United States on March 29, 2016
    Verified Purchase
    In her fast-moving tale "Nyssa Glass and the House of Mirrors" author H.L. Burke has combined elements of Steampunk, science fiction, horror, and romance to fashion an interesting read with a winsome heroine.
    Nyssa has a shady past, which is not entirely her fault. Orphaned at a young age, she is shoved into a life of crime by circumstance more than desire. That doesn't prevent her from becoming very, very good at her "job" as a cat burglar, however. Caught one night while breaking into a store, she is taken under the wing of the man she was attempting to rob. He clears her name with the justice system, obtaining a pardon for her past crimes, and sees that she receives a top-flight education in things mechanical and electrical. Now, at 16, she has a "straight" job and a future she can look forward to with some pride.
    Then things go wrong.
    Bad wrong.
    It's not my intention to delve into the plot to spoil it for those who have not yet read this book, but I will say that the bulk of the action takes place in - as the title suggests - a very strange mansion. There is danger afoot in the mansion, literally and figuratively, and Nyssa will need all her skills as a burglar to survive and even with them there is a very good chance that she will not.
    Nyssa is an appealing character. She's smart, seems to have her head on straight, and she is determined to "do the right thing." The system, however, may not be inclined to allow that. "Once a criminal, always a criminal" seems to be the prevailing attitude of the police.
    This short novel has a lot of elements: Examples of courage, loyalty, betrayal, and pure evil are woven into the narrative with great skill. If I have a quibble with this very entertaining book it is simply that I would have liked the characters of the villains to be developed a little more because, to my way of thinking, they were pretty interesting in their own right.
    That said, this is a solid 4.5 star novel with a smoothly written narrative, a well-plotted storyline and an intriguing heroine. I have no trouble recommending it.
    12 people found this helpful
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  • AmazonCustomer1
    5.0 out of 5 stars A cleverly-paced novella that is impossible to put down
    Reviewed in the United States on May 3, 2016
    Verified Purchase
    Nyssa Glass and the House of Mirrors is a quick-witted steampunk treat with a likable heroine, an intriguing set-up, and a finale that delivers a full payoff.

    Nyssa Glass is a typical steampunk heroine: snarky, spunky, and mechanically-minded. What sets her apart is her criminal background–and her reluctance to return to that life. This isn’t a story that glorifies thieves or the ability to pick locks. Nor does it paint the cops in a negative light. Instead, Nyssa has an effective internal arc, struggling with her expert skills even while she has to use them to survive the House of Mirrors.

    The tech aspect offers a fresh take on steampunk. I particularly enjoyed the steampunk computers and other steampunk tech. Burke effortlessly integrates them into her world-building, and I liked seeing something different. She’s an author who is confident in her vision, and it really shows in every part of this story.

    No downsides for this book. However, for any concerned readers, there are one or two uses of mild profanity and some flirtatious comments/innuendo. That’s about it. Also, Burke is a faith-based writer, so Nyssa has some familiarity with Scripture and God, in a way that is entirely natural to the plot.

    Final Verdict: Nyssa Glass and the House of Mirrors is an engrossing novella with a well-written heroine, a dynamic narrative, and a thoroughly satisfying conclusion that will leave steampunk fans waiting for the next installment. At least, I certainly am!
    8 people found this helpful
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Top reviews from other countries

  • Richard Abbott
    5.0 out of 5 stars A compelling exploration of a different world
    Reviewed in the United Kingdom on April 21, 2016
    Verified Purchase
    I read Nyssa Glass and the House of Mirrors, by H.L. Burke, on the recommendation of a friend and am very glad to have done so: I really enjoyed this story.

    The plot follows a young lady - Nyssa, of course - through a series of exploits as she tries to extricate herself from being unjustly accused of murder. Her background is dubious enough to make the accusation likely to be believed, but she is determined to deserve the trust of her employer Mr Calloway, and her former teachers at Miss Pratchett's School for Mechanically Minded Maids. This determination keeps her going through puzzles, dangers, and difficulties.

    On the surface, her basic task seems clear - find a way into a seemingly abandoned house and retrieve a missing item. But inevitably things are not so simple. The house turns out to be well-defended, although the protective systems are overdue for servicing and overhaul, and it is not so empty as it seems at first sight...

    The action takes place almost entirely within a single day - barring some necessary flashbacks and a brief "what followed" section - but it is easy to forget the shortness of the timespan as you are carried along with the action. You reach the end of the book feeling that you have come to learn a great deal about her, owing to the intensity of her experiences.

    A recurring theme of the book is the question of who Nyssa can rely on. Sometimes she makes the wrong decision, and finds herself having to work out how to undo the difficulties resulting from this. Her life experiences have not disposed her to be particularly trusting, and suspicion of motives easily rises to the surface of her thoughts. But the ongoing need to work out who is dependable and who is fickle is a major thread of the book, and one which several of the characters grapple with. The answers to these questions shift multiple times through the book as various facts and snippets of background become clear.

    The author's chosen style is most like Steampunk, though with her own personal spin on the conventions of that genre which worked well for me. The level of scientific and technological accomplishment was a perfect complement to Nyssa's skills and abilities. Both feel entirely credible and I was fully immersed in the tale. I particularly liked the approach towards mechanical intelligence was handled - a very different route to our society's, but it is a persuasive and compelling alternative. There is a point where curious enquiry of possibilities gives way to the horrified realisation of reality, and this is handled particularly well.

    House of Mirrors is a YA novel and the personal interactions reflect this. However, this should not deter anyone, and there is ample interest and character depth to satisfy an adult reader. The cast of characters is comparatively small, and the end of the book strongly suggests that other books set in this world will follow in the future. I certainly hope so, and will be looking out for them.

    (This review was originally prepared for The Review blog, [...]/)
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  • CC
    4.0 out of 5 stars A New, Approved YA Steampunk Classic, to be sure!!!
    Reviewed in Italy on May 28, 2016
    Verified Purchase
    It took little coaxing to get me to dive into this story. Between the cover art, the title, and the steampunk premise, I was thrilled when I was able to get it and dive in. From the first words of the first chapter, I was riveted. There is nothing tacky or uninteresting about it. Action, adventure, mystery, with a great dose of humor and the minutest smidge of romance, it all works like getting men, dragons, automatons, and unicorns to coexist together in a steampunk world.

    Nyssa Glass is such a remarkably endearing youth, and Mr. C. and, dare I say, the computer (?) melted my heart. I certainly did not know where the story was leading, and was left aghast and startled many times along the way.

    To me there is underlying symbolism that completely relates to contemporary times. H. L. Burke did a fantastic job at keeping the flow and intrigue going, and with the world building and gadget creations. The characters, I felt, were solid, and unique. The plot was constantly tilted and twirled, so boredom was out of the question.

    There were some creepy, but fascinating moments. Between some very difficult plot twists, which I would characterize as darker steampunk, I noticed two swear words used by a character that had every right to be frustrated.

    I was pleased with the unusual use of verses to encourage a soul fighting temptation and the call of a past life of crime. I especially enjoyed how one was used as a clue to open a door. Very fun details!

    One of my favorite quotes: "I think I'd rather be frightened but informed than blissfully ignorant." (said by Nyssa)

    And I loved the dedication!!! "to the self-taught and the determined"
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  • Bronwen
    3.0 out of 5 stars Quick read
    Reviewed in Canada on June 9, 2021
    Verified Purchase
    The book has a good plot; fun, believable characters and nice descriptions. Interesting setting. Overall,enjoyable steampunk book. Worth the read.
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  • SSReadsALot
    5.0 out of 5 stars This was my first "steam-punk" book, so I'm not sure if I'm a fan of the genre, or just the author, but I absolutely LOVED it!
    Reviewed in Australia on April 2, 2016
    Verified Purchase
    This was my first "steam-punk" book, so I'm not sure if I'm a fan of the genre, or just the author, but I absolutely LOVED this book! Fast paced, action packed, flawless writing and such an amazing imagination! I loved all the characters, particularly Nyssa & Hart ... Can't wait 'til someone makes this into a film as it would be a good one, and I can claim to be one of the early readers.

    Five stars without a doubt.
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  • An Avid Reader
    4.0 out of 5 stars Entertaining
    Reviewed in Australia on April 3, 2016
    Verified Purchase
    This was a really good read, well written, good story, gets you in, with consistent and interesting world building. Nyssa is an appealing character and Hart is great. A good, clean, very entertaining steampunk story without the unpleasant moral inversions that are all too often part of fantasy.
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