Parasolverse is the name given to the universe in which are set several series of books and books written by Gail Carriger.
The name comes from the name of her first series in that universe, “The Parasol Protectorate”.

This very well thought out universe is steampunk with fantasy elements, making it potentially fit into the gaslamp fantasy category.

It’s set during the Victorian era, but in which technology is more developed and in a reality in which ether exists.
Ether is an element that the ancient Greeks situated as being in the top parts of the sky. It’s found in several theories in the field of physics until the early 20th Century. Its existence hasn’t been proved so it is admitted that it does not exist. (If I’ve understood what I’ve read correctly.)
In the parasolverse this element is associated with the soul – too much of it allows one to become a werewolf, a vampire or a ghost; the lack of it is rare and negates the effects of having too much of it. It also has practical uses, such as long distance communication as well as faster air travel.

 

I must specify that there are LGBTQ+ characters in each series, and some books are dedicated to them. If you have a problem with that, this is not for you.

 

Let me introduce the three main series, in order of publication of the first book in each.
Continuez la lecture