“War isn't a game, Deryn. It's a meat grinder, and you don't get to choose who goes in.”
— A harsh lesson about the reality of war, likely from Volger to Deryn.
Archivist's Choice
Leviathan
Scott Westerfeld (2009)
Genre
Literary Fiction / Mystery
Reading Time
587 min
Key Themes
See below
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In a steampunk WWI, a deposed Austro-Hungarian prince on the run in a walking war machine meets a cross-dressing British airman piloting a living airship, forming an alliance that will redefine the global conflict.
Synopsis
Prince Aleksander, Archduke Franz Ferdinand's son, escapes with his crew and a Stormwalker mech after his parents' assassination starts World War I. He is a fugitive, hunted by the Central Powers. Meanwhile, Deryn Sharp, a commoner disguised as a boy, serves in the British Air Service, piloting 'beastie' airships. Her secret is always at risk as she navigates war and society's rules. Their paths cross when Alek's Stormwalker crashes near Deryn's airship, the *Leviathan*, a living ecosystem engineered for war. Distrustful at first, the two teenagers form an alliance, each protecting their secrets while working together to survive. As they journey across Europe, evading capture and uncovering conspiracies, they find a shared purpose that goes beyond their backgrounds and the global conflict, shaping the future of a world on the brink.
Reading time
587 min
Difficulty
Medium
Pacing
Moderate
Mood
Adventurous, Inventive, Suspenseful, World-building
✓ Read this if...
You enjoy steampunk adventures, alternative history, and stories with strong, resourceful young protagonists.
✗ Skip this if...
You dislike historical fiction with fantastical elements or prefer stories with a purely realistic setting.
Plot Summary
The Archduke's Escape
On the eve of World War I, in a steampunk alternate history, Prince Aleksander, known as Alek, trains in his Stormwalker, a bipedal war machine, in the Austrian Alps. His fencing master, Count Volger, and his mechanics are with him. They receive news that Alek's parents, Archduke Franz Ferdinand and Sophie, have been assassinated in Sarajevo. Before Alek can process the tragedy, the German High Command, specifically Colonel Hoffman, tries to seize him, declaring him a dangerous heir because his mother was a commoner. Volger, loyal to the Archduke's last wishes, helps Alek escape, taking the Stormwalker and a train, heading for Switzerland to seek asylum, making Alek a fugitive from his own empire.
Deryn's Deception
Meanwhile, in England, Deryn Sharp, a commoner, has disguised herself as a boy named Dylan to join the British Air Service, which uses genetically engineered 'beasties' as airships. Her dream is to fly. She passes the tests, showing skill and bravery, especially in handling the delicate ecosystem of the hydrogen-breathing 'Leviathan' airbeasts. Her deception causes constant anxiety, as discovery would mean severe punishment. She is assigned to the airship *Leviathan*, a massive ecosystem of fabricated creatures, just as tensions rise across Europe, leading to global conflict.
A Crash Landing
Alek and his crew, including Volger and the mechanics, continue their journey through the snow-covered Alps. Their Stormwalker, a complex machine needing constant maintenance and fuel, is damaged during a fight with German forces, forcing them to crash in a remote, snowy forest. They are stranded and vulnerable, cut off from their escape route. The crew works to repair the damaged walker, but supplies are low, and discovery by German or other Clanker forces is a constant threat. Alek, despite his royal upbringing, faces the harsh realities of survival.
The *Leviathan*'s Mission
The British airship *Leviathan*, with Deryn (as Dylan) aboard, is sent on a secret mission. Their goal is to deliver scientific cargo to Constantinople (Istanbul) and investigate a potential new weapon being developed by the Central Powers. Deryn quickly proves herself a capable midshipman, showing skill in flying and handling the 'beasties' that make up the airship's living ecosystem. Her observational skills and quick thinking earn her the respect of her officers, especially Dr. Barlow, a scientist on the *Leviathan*. The journey is dangerous, as they navigate hostile territories.
First Contact
While scouting for supplies and a safe path, Alek and his men find a crashed fabricated beast—a damaged storm-lizard from the *Leviathan*. Unknown to them, Deryn, on a solo scouting mission from the *Leviathan* after its own crash, is nearby. She finds Alek's damaged Stormwalker and, thinking it's an enemy Clanker machine, tries to disable it. Alek, mistaking Deryn for a boy spy, captures her. This first meeting between the two, a Clanker prince and a Darwinist commoner disguised as a boy, shows their different worlds and views, setting the stage for an alliance.
An Uneasy Alliance
After the first fight, Alek and Deryn are forced into an uneasy alliance. The *Leviathan* has crashed nearby due to the storm-lizard's damage and a lightning strike, and its crew is also stranded. Realizing their precarious positions, Alek and Deryn agree to a temporary truce. Deryn, still disguised as Dylan, helps Alek's crew with repairs, using her knowledge of the terrain and quick thinking. Alek offers his dwindling supplies and the protection of his armed men. Their initial distrust slowly lessens as they face shared dangers and realize the value of each other's skills and knowledge.
The Rescue of the *Leviathan*
With both groups stranded, Alek, Volger, and the Stormwalker's mechanics help the *Leviathan* crew repair their damaged airship. Alek's mechanical skills and the Clanker tools are useful in patching up the fabricated beast. Deryn acts as a go-between for the two groups, translating technical terms and bridging the gap between Clankers (machine-users) and Darwinists (fabricated-beast users). This collaboration is tense because their nations are on the brink of war, but the immediate need for survival overrides their conflict, creating a fragile camaraderie among some.
Secrets Revealed
During a dangerous moment, Deryn's disguise as Dylan is accidentally revealed. While helping Alek, her shirt tears, showing her binding and her true gender. Alek is shocked and feels betrayed, but the immediate danger prevents a full confrontation. Deryn, embarrassed and afraid, tries to downplay it, but the secret is out between them. This revelation adds another layer to their relationship, changing their dynamic from a prince and a common boy to a prince and a disguised common girl, further challenging Alek's ideas.
Escape and New Orders
With the *Leviathan* partly repaired, both groups escape the Alps. Alek and his crew, with a new destination, continue their journey to the Ottoman Empire, hoping to find refuge and support for his claim to the throne. The *Leviathan*, with Deryn aboard, also resumes its mission to Constantinople. Their intense period of forced cooperation has affected both Alek and Deryn. They have seen beyond their nations' propaganda and developed a respect, even friendship, for each other, despite their differences and the looming war. They carry the secrets and shared experiences of their unusual encounter.
Arrival in Constantinople
The *Leviathan* reaches Constantinople, a neutral city in this alternate history, a busy place where Clanker and Darwinist technologies exist together. Deryn, though relieved, stays alert, her secret still weighing on her. The airship delivers its cargo, and the crew investigates rumors of a new, dangerous weapon being developed by the Central Powers. The city is a hub of intrigue and espionage, and the *Leviathan* crew quickly gets caught in a web of alliances and betrayals. Deryn continues to prove her worth, her skills and insights proving valuable in their intelligence gathering.
Alek's Pursuit
Following a similar path, Alek and his crew also make their way to Constantinople. Their journey is hard, with encounters with enemy forces and the challenge of maintaining their damaged Stormwalker. Alek hopes to find allies in the Ottoman Empire who might support his claim to the Austro-Hungarian throne and help him counter German efforts to discredit him. He knows his survival, and his lineage's future, depends on finding powerful support. The journey forces Alek to mature quickly, shedding some of his royal naivete and accepting the realities of his new life as a refugee prince.
The Ottoman Envoy
Upon arriving in Constantinople, Alek, guided by Count Volger, seeks an audience with the Ottoman Sultan. He hopes to secure political asylum and military aid against the Germans who have taken his place. The negotiations are delicate, as the Ottoman Empire is playing a neutral but strategic role in the global conflict. Alek must navigate the diplomatic landscape, proving his worth and claim, while also dealing with German envoys who work against him. This period tests Alek's diplomatic skills and his ability to project strength despite his vulnerable position.
Reunion and Revelation
In the streets of Constantinople, Alek and Deryn unexpectedly meet again. Their reunion is brief but important. Deryn, still disguised as Dylan, stays composed, but Alek knows her true identity. They exchange cautious greetings, acknowledging the bond formed in the Alps. Their paths, though separate, are clearly coming together again in this politically charged city. This reunion sets the stage for further interactions and the potential for their alliance to grow, especially as they both get involved in the larger plans surrounding the development of a mysterious, powerful new weapon.
The Ottoman Secret
Both Alek and Deryn, through their separate investigations, start to uncover parts of a dangerous secret in Constantinople. The British *Leviathan* crew suspects the Ottomans are developing a new weapon, possibly with German assistance, that could change the balance of power in the war. Alek, through his diplomatic efforts, also learns of a secret project. It becomes clear that the weapon involves both Clanker and Darwinist technologies, a fusion that could be incredibly destructive. The implications of this discovery are huge, forcing both characters to consider how their actions could affect the broader global conflict.
A Shared Purpose
As the Ottoman secret becomes clear, Alek and Deryn, despite their different loyalties and personal struggles, realize they share a common, urgent goal: to prevent the new weapon from falling into the wrong hands or being used. They find themselves, again, forced to work together, their skills and views complementing each other. The initial distrust has grown into a deep, unspoken understanding and respect. The first book ends with Alek and Deryn ready to confront this new threat together, their fates now linked to the global conflict and each other.
Principal Figures
Prince Aleksander (Alek)
The Protagonist
Alek transforms from a sheltered prince to a resourceful and determined leader, learning to navigate a dangerous world beyond the confines of his royal upbringing.
Deryn Sharp (Dylan)
The Protagonist
Deryn's journey is one of self-discovery and proving her worth, not just as a pilot, but as an individual, while grappling with the complexities of her deception.
Count Volger
The Supporting
Volger remains a steadfast guardian, his loyalty to Alek unwavering, but he learns to trust others outside his immediate circle.
Dr. Barlow
The Supporting
Dr. Barlow serves as a scientific and moral compass, her pragmatism balanced by an underlying sense of ethical responsibility.
Bovril
The Supporting
Bovril remains a loyal and helpful companion, his presence highlighting Deryn's connection to the Darwinist world.
Klopp and Bauer
The Supporting
Klopp and Bauer remain steadfast in their duty, their technical skills proving invaluable throughout their perilous journey.
Colonel Hoffman
The Antagonist
Hoffman serves as an initial antagonist, his actions driving Alek's flight and establishing the political stakes.
Captain Hobbes
The Supporting
Hobbes maintains his role as a capable leader, guiding his crew through perilous missions.
Themes & Insights
Identity and Deception
The theme of identity is central, especially through Deryn's disguise as 'Dylan.' Her entire time in the British Air Service relies on deception, showing societal limits and how far people go to achieve dreams. Alek also struggles with his identity, losing his royal title and taking on a dangerous role as a fugitive. Both characters adopt new identities, literal and metaphorical, to survive and reach their goals. Deryn's fear of discovery and Alek's struggle to connect his royal past with his present show how fragile identity is in a world at war. This is clear when Deryn's gender is accidentally revealed to Alek, making both face the truth.
““I’m not a girl, I’m a middy! And I’m going to fly!””
War and Its Consequences
The novel is set at the start of World War I, and the coming conflict is a constant, heavy background. The assassination of Alek's parents directly causes his flight, and tensions between Clanker and Darwinist nations are clear throughout. The book explores the personal effects of war, putting young characters like Alek and Deryn in dangerous situations and challenging their ideas about 'the enemy.' It also examines how conflict affects technology and society, showing the growth of weapons and the moral questions of war. The devastation of the Alps and the constant threat of attack highlight war's destructive nature.
““The war had begun with a murder, and would end with many more.””
Technology vs. Biology (Clankers vs. Darwinists)
A main theme is the ideological and technological difference between the Clankers and the Darwinists. Clankers, like Alek's Austro-Hungarian Empire and Germany, use steam-powered machines and rigid social structures. Darwinists, like the British, use genetically engineered 'fabricated' creatures, representing a more biological approach to technology. The book contrasts these two views, exploring their strengths, weaknesses, and the biases each holds against the other. The initial distrust between Alek and Deryn, from their loyalties, shows this clash, which they must overcome to work together. Their eventual collaboration in repairing both the Stormwalker and the *Leviathan* symbolizes a possible link between these two philosophies.
““Clankers made their machines from gears and pistons, from steel and steam. Darwinists made theirs from DNA and protein, from bone and blood.””
Prejudice and Understanding
Both Alek and Deryn start with biases against each other's groups—Alek sees Darwinists as 'beastie-lovers,' while Deryn sees Clankers as 'cold-iron' warmongers. Their forced alliance in the Alps challenges these biases. As they spend time together, they begin to see beyond propaganda and stereotypes, recognizing each other's humanity, courage, and resourcefulness. This theme shows the importance of personal experience in overcoming bias and building understanding across cultural and ideological divides. Their growing relationship shows how shared hardship can break down barriers and reveal common ground, even between people from opposing sides of a global conflict.
““He was a Clanker, she was a Darwinist. They were supposed to hate each other. So why did he feel… something else?””
Loyalty and Betrayal
Loyalty drives many characters, from Count Volger's devotion to Alek, to Deryn's commitment to her dream and the British Air Service. Alek's story begins with his own people (the Germans trying to seize him) betraying him, forcing him to rely on his small crew's loyalty. Deryn's loyalty to her country and her disguise constantly puts her at risk of discovery. The theme explores loyalty's complexities in wartime, where allegiances can be tested and redefined, and where the line between friend and foe can blur. Loyalty extends beyond individuals to nations and ideals.
““My loyalty is to the Archduke’s son, and to his dying wish.””
Plot Devices & Literary Techniques
Alternate History Setting
World War I reimagined with steampunk machines and bio-engineered creatures
The novel's setting is a crucial plot device, as it provides the unique backdrop for the story. By altering the historical context of World War I to include advanced machine technology (Clankers) and bio-engineering (Darwinists), Westerfeld creates a world where different forms of power and warfare clash. This allows for fantastical elements like Stormwalkers and the *Leviathan* airship, which directly influence the plot's conflicts and resolutions. It also provides a canvas to explore themes of technological advancement, prejudice, and the nature of war through a fresh lens, distinguishing it from traditional historical fiction.
Disguise and Secret Identity
Deryn Sharp's concealment of her gender to join the Air Service
Deryn's disguise as 'Dylan' is a central plot device that generates significant tension and drives much of her personal conflict. It allows her access to a world otherwise denied to her, but also places her in constant peril of discovery. This device creates numerous close calls and awkward situations that highlight Deryn's resourcefulness and bravery. It also serves to delay the development of her relationship with Alek, as he initially perceives her as a boy, adding a layer of complexity when her true gender is revealed. The secret identity also underpins the broader theme of identity and societal expectations.
The Stormwalker
Alek's bipedal war machine and primary mode of transport
The Stormwalker is more than just a vehicle; it's a symbol of Alek's heritage and a crucial tool for his survival. As a complex Clanker machine, its maintenance and operation drive many of the plot's challenges, such as mechanical breakdowns and fuel shortages. It represents Alek's world and his technological prowess. Its damaged state after the crash forces the initial collaboration with Deryn and the *Leviathan* crew. The Stormwalker embodies the Clanker philosophy and is a constant reminder of Alek's royal status and the power he wields, even in exile.
The *Leviathan*
A massive, fabricated airship and Deryn's home
The *Leviathan* is a pivotal plot device, representing the pinnacle of Darwinist bio-engineering and serving as Deryn's primary setting. As a living ecosystem, its unique characteristics (e.g., hydrogen breathers, storm-lizards) directly influence the narrative, from its crash in the Alps to its role in intelligence gathering. Its very nature as a fabricated beast, in contrast to Alek's Stormwalker, emphasizes the ideological divide between the two factions. The *Leviathan* also acts as a mobile base of operations, transporting Deryn and her crew across Europe and into new dangers, driving the geographical progression of the story.
Critical analysis
Notable Quotes
“The greatest weapon isn't a cannon, or a beast, or even a city. It's an idea.”
— A reflection on the power of ideology and invention in conflict.
“Sometimes you have to be willing to lose everything to gain something truly important.”
— A character contemplating sacrifice for a greater cause or goal.
“Secrets are like engines, Deryn. They need fuel to keep going, and the fuel is always truth.”
— Volger explaining the nature of secrets and their eventual reveal.
“The world isn't just clockwork and steam, Alek. There's a wildness to it, too, a beautiful, terrifying life.”
— A character, likely Deryn, describing the organic wonders of the Darwinists to Alek.
“Fear can be a useful tool, but it's a terrible master.”
— A piece of advice given about managing one's own fear in dangerous situations.
“You can't fight a war with just machines, or just beasts. You need both. And most of all, you need people.”
— A commentary on the necessity of diverse strengths and human element in warfare.
“History isn't just what happened. It's what people remember, and what they choose to forget.”
— A reflection on the subjective and often manipulated nature of historical narratives.
“Sometimes the bravest thing you can do is admit you're scared.”
— A moment of vulnerability and honesty between characters.
“The future isn't written in the stars, Alek. It's written by our hands, every day.”
— A character emphasizing agency and the power of individual choices.
“Loyalty isn't given, it's earned. And once it's earned, it's worth more than any crown.”
— A powerful statement about the value of trust and allegiance.
“There are no monsters, only creatures doing what they were bred to do.”
— A Darwinist perspective on the bio-engineered beasts, challenging traditional notions of 'monstrosity'.
“A lie told often enough becomes the truth, even to the one who tells it.”
— A warning about the insidious nature of self-deception and propaganda.
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Key Questions (FAQ)
'Leviathan' is an alternate history steampunk novel set at the beginning of World War I. It follows Prince Aleksander, a fleeing Austro-Hungarian heir with a walking machine called a Stormwalker, and Deryn Sharp, a British commoner disguised as a boy in the Air Service, who pilots organic airbeasts. Their paths converge amidst the brewing global conflict.
About the author
Biography coming soon.
