The Watchmaker's Daughter—A Victorian Historical Fantasy

Someone suggested The Watchmaker’s Daughter, so I added it to my reading list. Unfortunately, I can’t recall the person or the situation. I think it had to do with one of my blog posts, but now I can’t link this book to any post in particular.

What I Loved

In “The Watchmaker’s Daughter”, C.J. Archer creates a charming world of Victorian romance and light magic. It tells the story of India Steele, a 27-year-old woman on a quest to start afresh after her father’s death and her ex-fiancé’s betrayal. Set in late 19th-century London, the novel showcases a world rich in guild traditions and concealed magic. The world-building strikes a balance between historical accuracy and whimsical fantasy. I liked how Archer included a slow-burn romance in the story. The relationship between India and Mr. Glass develops slowly, avoiding the cliché of “instant love,” which is a nice change for this genre.

India stands out as a strong and determined woman, adding to the highlights of the story. As the daughter of a master watchmaker, her independence and skill make her a relatable and engaging protagonist. The enigmatic Mr. Glass and his crew added an element of intrigue, leaving me curious about their motives and background. The mix of British nobility, American outlaws, and magical watches was a total blast, making the adventure feel just right. 

What Didn’t Resonate with Me

Although I liked the characters, I thought they could have been better developed at times. Although India’s insight and independence were well-established, the other characters, particularly Mr. Glass, needed more backstory to be fully understood. The potential for a slow-burn romance between India and Mr. Glass was there, but the attraction felt underdeveloped, lacking a believable progression.  

Predictable plot twists took away from the suspense of the story. Moreover, the book often seemed more like an introduction to the series rather than a complete story. There wasn’t much of a plot and the characters didn’t really change, so it felt like I was waiting for something that never happened. 

Some things didn’t quite add up, and it bothered me. India’s dad dies right before the book starts, but she doesn’t really show much emotion about it. She rarely reflects on him, and it seems odd given their close relationship. The reason her father left the shop to Eddy seems far-fetched. Even if she couldn’t become a watchmaker because the guild didn’t accept her, she could have owned the shop and hire a watchmaker accepted by the guild. That could be Eddy or someone else. 

Themes and Tropes

The Watchmaker’s Daughter leans into familiar themes of personal reinvention, independence, and the power of self-determination. India, thrust into a position of vulnerability after her father’s death and the loss of her inheritance, must carve out a new place for herself in a world ruled by patriarchal guilds. Her story echoes the self-reliance found in Jane Austen’s heroines, with the added twist of Victorian melodrama and a dash of unexplained magic.  

The romance itself follows the slow-burn trope, and Archer wisely avoids making India’s attraction to Mr. Glass the sole focus of her journey. While the book includes mysterious strangers, a quest to uncover a secret, and magic that’s more hinted at than fully explored, these elements keep the plot ticking along, albeit lightly. It’s a fun read, but the magical aspects felt more like seasoning than the main course, which may or may not appeal to readers expecting more fantasy.

Final Thoughts 

Overall, The Watchmaker’s Daughter is an enjoyable read, particularly for those who appreciate light Victorian romance with a sprinkle of magic. The setting is richly atmospheric, and the premise of magical watches and guild traditions is intriguing, even if the execution feels a bit uneven. Archer’s writing is accessible and fun, making this a quick and pleasant read. 

For those looking for an easy escapist read with hints of romance and mystery, this book delivers. But if you’re hoping for a more profound exploration of its characters or magic system, you may find yourself left wanting. As for me, while I enjoyed India’s journey, I’m not in a rush to continue the series.