Leviathan by Scott Westerfield

This is the first of a trilogy. I've nearly finished the last one now and I have really enjoyed all of them. I first came across Scott Westerfield when I read the fast paced fantasy series 'Uglies'. This trilogy is just as fast paced with equally strong protaganists. It's set in an alternative history of WW1, in a world of fantastic machines and fabricated beasties. It's in the 'steampunk' genre of which I'm a fan. If you enjoy this trilogy you'll enjoy The Mortal Engines series. Morrin sensei