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This book, due in Feb. 2015, has already been optioned for a movie, and more than anything else, it feels cinematic: striking settings, lots of action sequences, flimsy character development and "plot-driven" but with a slightly incomprehensible plot. Unfortunately, as a book, it doesn't quite work. The best part is the world building, especially the settings - a Scottish estate, futuristic Hong Kong, an airship that circles over London. The logic of the science/magic and the history are intriguing but not well-fleshed out. The characterization is based on what the author tells you about the characters, rather than anything they say or do. It's also the first in a series, and it basically reads like 400 pages of build-up for the next book.
An additional purchase if you have kids who are hungry for sci-fi/fantasy series (this has sort of a futuristic magic feel). Otherwise, wait to see if the movie gets made and buy it then.
An additional purchase if you have kids who are hungry for sci-fi/fantasy series (this has sort of a futuristic magic feel). Otherwise, wait to see if the movie gets made and buy it then.