The vivid and easy to visualize action drew me into this story. The author did a wonderful job setting the tone for this steampunk story set in a 19th century where time travel has tweaked history. The world building, the imagery -- everything from the cool character names to the colorful seaside town to the air ships moving through the skies, mixing San Francisco with the made-up town of San Antenai -- effectively puts the reader into the mood of the story. And Nicola Tesla plays a central role. [Nerd love here for Tesla, one of science and technology's unsung heroes!]The prologue begins with a vivid battle scene between the mercenary pirate-like Phantoms whose objective is to steal a time travel pod the captain of an airship is charged with transporting. Later, we follow the action of the airship's son Acastu and his sister on the run from evil Phantom crew members looking to press local waifs into years of service aboard their ships. The pursuit of young Acastu and his little sister propels the children on their adventure.Stealing Time is an enjoyable, well-written page-turner.