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The Rising

Book 2 in the series:The Alchemy Wars

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The Rising in the Alchemy Wars series by Ian Tregillis is a continuation that builds on the original world and characters, focusing on the intertwined stories of two brilliant and ruthless women, a freed mechanical servitor finding his moral code, and the philosophical reflections interwoven with action and adventure. The story delves into questions of free will, the nature of evil, and the consequences of humanity's reliance on mechanical servants in an alternative 1800s setting where the Dutch control thinking machines.

Characters:

The characters are multi-dimensional, with relatable struggles and moral complexities, enhancing the story's depth.

Writing/Prose:

The prose is fluid and engaging, with an effective balance of detail and character perspective that enhances the narrative.

Plot/Storyline:

The story features philosophical explorations and an intricate plot that sometimes struggles to connect characters, but it maintains an exciting pace with humor and action.

Setting:

The setting is a richly constructed alternate 1800s that combines magic and technology, framing the conflict between different cultures.

Pacing:

The pacing starts strong but varies throughout, reflecting the balance of action and philosophical exploration.

Notes:

Jax is considered the main character and is relatable for his loyalty and guilt.
Berenice showcases complex character development, shifting from prideful mistakes to essential plot contributions.
Longchamp provides a wide perspective of society in Marseilles, enriching the reader's experience.
The novel incorporates philosophical themes about free will and societal attitudes toward programming mechanical beings.
The story is set in an alternate history where the Dutch have created intelligent machines called Clakkers.
The pacing of the book is fast and exciting compared to the previous installment.
The series is essentially one continuous narrative divided into three parts, which enhances reader engagement.
Worldbuilding includes intricate details about technology and alchemy relevant to the story's setting in the 1800s.
The violence depicted in the story reflects the ongoing war setting and is described as graphic, with warnings for sensitive readers.
Characters experience miraculous escapes that may feel lessening the sense of jeopardy as the plot progresses.
The writing is praised for its fluidity, making action scenes clear and exciting without overloading on exposition.

Sensitive Topics/Content Warnings

The book contains high levels of violence and graphic descriptions of combat and injuries, as well as foul language.

From The Publisher:

The second book in the Alchemy Wars trilogy by Ian Tregillis, an epic tale of liberation and war.

Jax, a rogue Clakker, has wreaked havoc upon the Clockmakers' Guild by destroying the Grand Forge. Reborn in the flames, he must begin his life as a free Clakker, but liberation proves its own burden.

Berenice, formerly the legendary spymaster of New France, mastermind behind her nation's attempts to undermine the Dutch Hegemony - has been banished from her homeland and captured by the Clockmakers Guild's draconian secret police force.

Meanwhile, Captain Hugo Longchamp is faced with rallying the beleaguered and untested defenders of Marseilles-in-the-West for the inevitable onslaught from the Brasswork Throne and its army of mechanical soldiers.

 
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