Homunculus

by James P. Blaylock
Homunculus cover
Good Books rating 3.3
Steampunk
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  • ID: 6595
  • Added: 2025-11-26
  • Updated: 2025-11-26
  • ISBN: 9780857689832
  • Publisher: Titan Books
  • Published: 2013-02-22
  • Reviews: 3

Homunculus is a thrilling adventure set in the foggy, gaslit streets of Victorian London. A mysterious airship, carrying an alien homunculus, becomes the object of desire for a diverse cast of characters, including a fraudulent evangelist, a fiendish vivisectionist, and an evil millionaire. Leading the charge to protect the homunculus is Professor Langdon St. Ives, a brilliant scientist and explorer. The story is a race against time as St. Ives and his allies try to keep the homunculus out of the claws of the villainous Ignacio Narbondo, who seeks to use it for nefarious purposes. The novel is a blend of steampunk and gothic horror, with a richly detailed Victorian setting and a cast of eccentric characters. The author's vivid descriptions and fast-paced action make Homunculus a gripping read for fans of historical fiction and adventure.

Reviews
Huffington Post · Alice Charles · 2013-02-21
disappointing 2.00

This book would have made a great graphic novel, but as a work of fiction, it falls apart at the seams.

The reviewer feels that the book's strengths lie in its visual and imaginative elements, which would have been better suited to a graphic novel format. They find the plot to be disjointed and the characters poorly developed, leading to a less satisfying reading experience. Despite the book's unique setting and humor, the reviewer finds it lacking in coherence and depth. They appreciate the creativity but feel that the execution falls short.

Quick quotes

    This would have made a great graphic novel, but as a work of fiction, it falls apart at the seams.

    Homunculus reads like a mash-up of various elements that don't quite gel together.

    The plot is disjointed and the characters are poorly developed.

Goodreads · 2000-01-01
funny 3.50

This book is a surreal British comedy that fans of Monty Python or Fawlty Towers will enjoy. The humor and unique setting make it a standout.

This review highlights the book's unique blend of surreal humor and Victorian London setting. The reviewer compares it to the absurd comedy of Monty Python, suggesting it's a great fit for fans of that style. They appreciate the clever writing and the imaginative world-building, making it a delightful read for those who enjoy quirky, comedic fiction. The reviewer also notes that the pacing might be a bit odd for some readers, but overall, it's a fun and engaging book.

Quick quotes

    If you're in the mood for a surreal British comedy in the vein of Monty Python or Fawlty Towers, James P. Blaylock's Homunculus will fit the bill nicely.

    The humor and unique setting make it a standout.

    A delightful read for those who enjoy quirky, comedic fiction.

Fantasy Book Review · 2000-01-01
smart 4.40

This book is smart and witty, set in a unique Victorian London. The pacing might be odd for some readers.

The reviewer praises the book for its intelligence and wit, set against the backdrop of a unique Victorian London. They note that the pacing might be a bit off for some readers, but the clever writing and unique setting make it a worthwhile read. The reviewer appreciates the blend of humor and mystery, making it a standout in the genre. They also mention that the characters are well-developed and the plot is engaging, despite some pacing issues.

Quick quotes

    Homunculus is a smart and witty book that takes place in an unique Victorian London.

    Some readers might find the pacing of this book a bit odd, and this is ...

    The clever writing and unique setting make it a worthwhile read.

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