A few years after the American Civil War, a small wagon train travels from the untamed west towards Kansas, on a mission of mercy and a hunt for a mysterious weapon.

TIN SWIFT is the second book in Devon Monk's The Age of Steam series. It's set in a magical world that's part Old West and part supernatural myth. The travelers are two brothers cursed by the Pawnee; a woman with a gift to build and operate machines; a witch compelled to return to her coven; and three men driven to find the deadly weapon known as the Holder.

When the travelers find themselves in a ghost town with nowhere to turn, aid swoops down from the sky. The tin airship and its crew are in a rough spot of their own, but they can't turn their backs on people in need. The two groups soon learn they have some common goals and team up to battle the forces of darkness.

I've been aware of the steampunk genre for years, but this is the first book I've read in the genre. It contains all of what I would consider the typical elements: an airship, a magical glowing green substance, goggles with special features, and lots of brass and gears. Throw in some werewolves, witches, and the Strange (an unexplained alien-like group), and it all feels very trendy.

That said, the story at the heart of TIN SWIFT is compelling. The good guys are likeable, and the bad guys are terrifying. In a nod to realism, the characters don't come out of the adventure unscathed. I also like the "old world" feel of the dialogue; for example, even partners and friends call each other mister and miss, and it means something when they use someone's first name.

If you enjoy the steampunk subculture, like alternate histories, or appreciate stories that blend fantasy and science fiction elements, TIN SWIFT provides a thrilling read that's tough to put down.