Mortal Engines (Mortal Engines, #1)

The romance is limited to a few chaste kisses and developing feelings between the protagonists.

Frequent combat includes city-on-city destruction, stabbings, and many deaths during the chase sequences.

Occasional mild language and invented slang terms are used throughout the narrative.

Characters occasionally use religious terms in a casual or exclamatory manner.

There are brief mentions of characters drinking alcohol in social settings.

Characters deal with trauma and facial scarring, but no self-harm is present.

The Stalkers are resurrected, cyborg-like corpses that provide a creepy and unsettling presence.

The setting is mechanical and scientific rather than magical or occult.

There are no LGBTQ+ characters or themes present in this first installment.

The world operates on 'Municipal Darwinism,' a survival-of-the-fittest philosophy that drives the predatory cities.

Ancient religions are treated as misunderstood historical artifacts rather than active targets of mockery.

Tom and Hester show significant bravery in standing against powerful forces to save others.

There is no active Christian faith; characters rely on their own strength and technology.

The bond between Tom and Hester grows into a deep, loyal friendship and protective partnership.

While revenge is a major motivator for Hester, she eventually finds room for trust.