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Chautona Havig

Chautona Havig

Using story to connect YOU to the Master Storyteller

Why Is There So Little True, Great Steampunk in Christian Fiction?

by Chautona Havig · 5 Comments

Steampunk as a genre has been inundated by sensual romance, but what about the brilliance of guys like Jules Verne and now S.A. Shaffer via @chautonahavig

S.A. Shaffer writes what some would call “classic steampunk” adventure, but as we discussed in the opening of our episode, that genre has shifted since the days of Jules Verne. So while his books fit the classic definition of the genre, he classifies them as “sci-fi/fantasy” to ensure readers find what they’re really looking for!

And his books are AMAZING. Available in print, on Kindle, and audiobook with a brilliant narrator, The Protectorate Wars features rich characterization, fabulous settings, and the adventures and changes of a lifetime. You don’t want to miss this discussion OR the giveaway for audiobooks at the end!

steampunk

note: links may be affiliate links that provide me with a small commission at no extra expense to you. Thank you Michelle Griep and her book Lost in Darkness for sponsoring this episode.

Why Is There So Little True, Great Steampunk in Christian Fiction?

S.A. (Stuart) Shaffer and I discuss why and Stuart offered several valid points. Between the uncomfortable use of the word “punk” and the glut of sensual romances set in a steampunk setting, Christian authors may not like to have their books classified as such. In fact, Stuart puts his under sci-fi/fantasy for that reason. I had to throw out there that author Tabitha Bouldin has an Alice in Wonderland and Frankenstein mashup coming next year. STEAMPUNK!!!

I began reading Born Hero before our interview, and man! I LOVE what this book is doing.  I’m not done yet, but I know what the grandkids are getting for Christmas.  Since book three in the series is slated to release by then (crossing fingers and saying prayers!) I figure the series will be a perfect gift.

Especially if I get the game Scythe to go with them. Stuart says it is a great fit for people who love his books.  What a combination, eh?

In addition to the genre in general and his books in particular, Stuart talked about another book he recommends (especially in the audiobook!) Dawn of Wonder by Jonathan Renshaw.

He mentioned it because of the brilliant show of how faith impacts characters’ lives in that book.

Let’s just say that after talking to him about faith in fiction, I suspect he does a fabulous job himself in The Protectorate Wars.

Oh, and mini, itty-bitty spoiler?  Book one, Born Hero ends on a cliffhanger.  Have book 2 ready to go!

protectorate wars steampunkAbout S.A. Shaffer’s Steampunk/Sci-fi/Fantasy series:

#1 Bestseller in STEAMPUNK FICTION and RELIGIOUS SCIENCE FICTION & FANTASY

It’s an uncertain time in the Fertile Plains. Sixty cycles have passed since Alönia won The Protectorate War, but time and conflict have eroded the security gained through that great struggle. As Alönia wades through internal squabbling, David rises above his tragic childhood and earns a place as an aide to a powerful politician. Only time will tell if he can overcome petty disputes and uncover a hidden enemy before everyone he knows is dead.

Embark on an airship adventure. Feel the wind in your hair as you soar through the clouds. Solve mysteries, forge friendships, and watch an ordinary boy become the hero he was born to be.

Learn more about S.A. Shaffer on his WEBSITE.

And we have a WINNER for the audiobook!  Andrea Conner!

I’ll send your code as soon as I find what I did with them!

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Comments

  1. Challice Neipp says

    August 4, 2021 at 4:37 am

    I know limited stuff about Steampunk but it always fascinated me how old fashion and modern it was at the same time.

    Reply
  2. Andrea Conner says

    August 1, 2021 at 7:23 am

    I love Steampunk but didn’t know about any Christian authors who wrote about it. Will definitely be checking out this author.

    Reply
  3. Jasmine A. says

    July 28, 2021 at 11:06 pm

    I’ve only read one steampunk novel for sure, possibly another. I read Curio by Evangeline Denmark. I surprisingly liked the book quite a bit and because of it I’m open to trying more, I’d love to read Morgan L. Busse’s steampunk novels, but I haven’t really had the opportunity or had much of an idea what (clean) authors to check out.

    Reply
  4. Michelle L. says

    July 27, 2021 at 4:42 am

    I don’t read much steampunk because I find it an imaginary stretch and I did not know there was CF steampunk. This series sounds like it would be fascinating and also something I can get my grandboys to read. I’m quite initrigued by the series and will be looking into it for Christmas gifts.

    Reply
    • Chautona Havig says

      July 27, 2021 at 7:34 pm

      I think they’ll enjoy it. I sure am, but I like fantasy that “makes sense” to me.

      Reply

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The Because Fiction Podcast

The Because Fiction Podcast
The Because Fiction Podcast

Taking the pulse of Christian fiction

Episode 265: A Chat with Karen Witemeyer
byChautona Havig

Nothing says fairy tale like a sweet western romance by an author like Karen Witemeyer… unless it’s a fairytale retelling set in Texas in the late 19th century, right?  Fairest of Heart takes the familiar “Snow White” and turns it on its head with retired cowboys, a self-absorbed actress, a Texas Ranger, and a sweet girl who knows the true Source of her beauty.  Listen in to see all the genius Easter eggs Witemeyer planted in this book.

Note: links may be affiliate links that provide me with a small commission at no extra expense to you.

Sometimes All a Girl Needs Is a True Change of Heart

I fell in love with the cover of Karen Witemeyer’s Head Over Heels a few years back (only to learn it’s much older than that, even), and meant to read that book.  I didn’t.  #BecauseIdiot. Well, that’ll be rectified just as soon as I’m done listening to her first book in a trilogy of fairytale retellings. I loaded it up on my Audible app tonight and wheeeeeeee. Here I go! So much for no new books until October. HA! 

Karen talks about her heart for young women today and how they’re taught by every bit of media blasting at them that they need to use their bodies to get what they need or want when the Lord has a better plan. And I can’t guarantee it, but I strongly suspect she does it without preaching. SQUEE!

Fairest of Heart by Karen Witemeyer

Once upon a time in Texas . . .

Beauty has been nothing but a curse to Penelope Snow. When she becomes a personal maid for a famous actress whose troupe is leaving Chicago to tour the West, she hides her figure beneath shapeless dresses and keeps her head down. But she still manages to attract the wrong attention, leaving her prospects in tatters–and her jealous mistress plotting her demise.

After his brother lost his life over a woman, Texas Ranger Titus Kingsley has learned to expect the worst from women and is rarely disappointed. So when a young lady found in suspicious circumstances takes up residence with the seven old drovers living at his grandfather’s ranch, Titus is determined to keep a close eye on her.

With a promotion hanging in the balance, Titus is assigned to investigate a robbery case tied to Penelope’s acting troupe, and all evidence points to Penelope’s guilt. But Titus might just be convinced that the fairest woman of all has a heart as pure as her last name . . . if only he can prove it.

You can learn more about Karen Witemeyer and her books on her WEBSITE. Don’t forget the book is 30% off on BakerBookHouse.com.  

Follow Karen on BookBub and GoodReads.

And don’t forget her Posse Group on Facebook.

Like to listen on the go? You can find Because Fiction Podcast at:

  • Apple 
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  • Google Play
  • Libsyn 
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  • Spotify
  • Amazon
  • and more!
Episode 265: A Chat with Karen Witemeyer
Episode 265: A Chat with Karen Witemeyer
September 29, 2023
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September 26, 2023
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Episode 263: A Chat about The Love Script w/ Toni Shiloh
September 23, 2023
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Episode 262: Chatting about The Legacy of Longdale Manor with Carrie Turansky
September 19, 2023
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Episode 261: Chatting with Christian Youth Fiction Author, Candice Yamnitz
September 15, 2023
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Episode 260: A Chat with Rachel Hauck
September 12, 2023
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Episode 259: A Chat with Debut Author, Laura Conaway
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Episode 258: A Louisiana Christmas to Remember
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Episode 257: A Chat with Fantasy Author, N. Ford
September 1, 2023
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