4.5 Stars - Great start to series. 
 When I first looked at this book, the words "Japanese Steampunk" made me giddy with joy. The seamless blend of mythology and technology along with a more traditional coming of age tale sets the stage for an epic fantasy series. It also made for an engrossing and enjoyable read. 
 For those readers who desire more magic in their stories, the islands of Shima are rich with legends, gods, oni, thunder tigers (griffins) and more. For those who crave more tech in their tales, there are the mechanical contraptions created by the insectoid-like suited Guildsmen along with the ecological and societal consequences of industrialization run amok. If you are an action fan, Kristoff has you covered here too. 
 Within this world we follow Yukiko, a young woman older than her years whose father is tasked with a seemingly impossible mission by the cruel, tyrannical Shogun. This task takes them from the poisoned skies of Kigen City to the mysterious, lush Iishi Mountains. I am not going to go over a plot synopsis. Most of my enjoyment came from immersing myself in the world, the characters, and the rising stakes and I won't spoil it for you. Although Yukiko is young, I would not call this a young adult book. 
 Stormdancer is very much a set-the-stage book, like most book 1's in a series. While there is a conclusion (no cliffhanger in case you were worried), there is plenty here to populate a series. From the first chapter I was enthralled, and reading the last words made me eager to start the next installment. 
 [Received an ARC to review for Amazon Vine http://www.amazon.com/review/R3U9LS9B...]