If you don't like excessively flowery prose, for which Gail Carriger is known, you might prefer this version of her series.
Supernatural
Review: Etiquette & Espionage
Sophronia is a character who is dreadfully curious about the world, but suffers from the societal restrictions of being a girl.
Review: The Sleeper and the Spindle
With respect to the story, I love the twists he puts on both Snow White and Sleeping Beauty.
Review: Snow, Glass, Apples
I love that Neil Gaiman the Snow White fairy tale it on its head. The queen is a tragic heroine.
HC Fitzpatrick 