Timeless

The Parasol Protectorate, the Fifth

By: Gail Carriger

Narrated by: Emily Gray

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?

©2012 Gail Carriger (P)2012 Hachette

Critic reviews

2010, Alex Award, Winner

2009, Publishers Weekly Best Books of the Year, Winner

"The world of Timeless is a unique recipe of steampunk and fantasy spiced with light sprinkling of romance. Its setting is rich for characters to romp about in, but the unbridled playfulness of the language and dialogue shines brightest."—Miami Herald

Cute Series

I love this entire series. This author just has a way of making each book different and unique. The story line is a different take on the vampires and werewolf themes and has nice twists. The dry humor is a fun treat and you end up liking all the different personalities. I would rate the whole series as a good listen.

Fun story and witty narration

This series has been a favourite right from the first book, first chapter. Pure entertainment, enhanced by Ms Greys' excellent narration.

Elicits chuckles of delight constantly!

Elicits chuckles of delight constantly! Wish I had a book of just Lord Akildama's endearments and nicknames....

As Magical As Ever!

I have been a fan since book 1, and she draws me in more every time! The action and reveals are perfectly paced, and the performance remains perfect! I can't wait to start the next one!

Fantastic author and narrator!

I love all the characters in this book. great story lines! It's being steampunk, too!

Well done, Emily Gray.

I'm confident Emily Gray's Audible reading added significantly to my enjoyment of this book, but Gail Carriger has not disappointed yet. Her quippy, witty, self-aware writing may not have deep substance, but it's just entertaining and fun. A bit like treacle tart...

That said, the abiding loyalty and firm commitment this husband and wife have for one another, teasing jabs aside, is completely refreshing and wholesome.

I'd rate this a PG-13 for adventurous danger, mild British swearing, and some adult themes such as sexual innuendo.

Original review on 8/7/23.

Perfect ending to a perfect series!

I love how all the threads of the previous books are all tied up neatly. This was another fun romp, this time in Egypt. Lots of narrow escapes (some of them VERY narrow), witty dialog, fashion, and TEA! I adore this series and hate that it ended, but this is pretty nearly a perfect way to end it.

Satisfying way to end Alexia's story

What a wonderful way to end Alexia's story and give the beginnings of another. The author takes us on a whirlwind journey where one never knows what exactly is going to happen next. Elements from previous books all come together in this final one while at the same time, still giving us some mysteries to ponder over.

I am going to miss Alexia terribly.

A Perfect Ending

Any additional comments?

Timeless wrapped up the Parasol Protectorate Series perfectly. Mysteries were solved, additional twists continued, all my favorite characters survived, and a two year old (who spoke in sounds, one word answers, and occasionally simple sentences) was introduced. Prudence was played as well as any of the other characters. With little material to work with, the author/narrator brought her to life with a very definite personality. Timeless not only wrapped up the series, but was a well thought out lead in to the next series. Start with Souless, read the series in order, and enjoy. I look forward to further audiobooks by Gail Carriger, and hope that Emily Gray narrates them as well.

I loved this series!

What made the experience of listening to Timeless the most enjoyable?

I thoroughly enjoyed listening to all of the series. Couldn't wait to listen every day.