Timeless (Parasol Protectorate #5)

Alexia Tarabotti, Lady Maccon, has settled into domestic bliss. Of course, being Alexia, such bliss involves integrating werewolves into London High society, living in a vampire's second best closet, and coping with a precocious toddler who is prone to turning supernatural willy-nilly. Even Ivy Tunstell's acting troupe's latest play, disastrous to say the least, cannot put a damper on Alexia's enjoyment of her new London lifestyle.

Until, that is, she receives a summons from Alexandria that cannot be ignored. With husband, child, and Tunstells in tow, Alexia boards a steamer to cross the Mediterranean. But Egypt may hold more mysteries than even the indomitable Lady Maccon can handle. What does the vampire Queen of the Alexandria Hive really want from her? Why is the God-Breaker Plague suddenly expanding? And how has Ivy Tunstell suddenly become the most popular actress in all the British Empire?

"Carriger's Parasol Protectorate series concludes with this uneven fifth installment (after Heartless). Two years after moving into vampire Lord Akeldama's third closet, the soulless Lady Alexia Maccon receives a summons from the world's oldest vampire, who requests an audience with Alexia's soul-stealing, scene-stealing two-year-old daughter, Prudence. Accompanying them to Egypt are Alexia's werewolf husband, Conall; the mysterious inventor Madame Lefoux; and Alexia's best friend, fluttery actress Ivy Tunstell, and her family and colorful theatrical troupe. Back in London, beta werewolf Professor Lyall and new pack member Biffy find love in unexpected places while investigating nefarious goings-on. Steampunk inventions take a backseat to the witty and affectionate depictions of the characters and their relationships. The language is somewhat forced and overstuffed, as if the complex plot overwhelmed Carriger's ability to string words together, but series readers will fall for Prudence and be happy with how it all wraps up. Agent: Kristin Nelson, Nelson Literary Agency." Publishers Weekly Copyright PWxyz, LLC. All rights reserved.