Books matching: alchemy
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- #1
Save:Quicksilver by Callie Hart is a dark fantasy romance novel set in a dystopian world where poverty is rampant, and water is a prized commodity. The story follows Saeris, a strong and independent young woman who accidentally opens a gateway to the world of the fae, discovering a realm she thought was only a myth. As she navigates this new world, she encounters Kingfisher, a morally grey fae with unique powers, and together they embark on a dangerous adventure filled with prophecies, magic, and a found family of warriors. The book is praised for its excellent world-building, intriguing plot, and well-developed characters, creating a blend of enemies-to-lovers romance, fae trickery, and unfulfilled prophecies.
- #2
Save:Roger and Dodger are twins created through alchemy to control the world, but they are not just tools and are now on the run to protect themselves from those trying to claim their power. The book delves into themes of science fiction, gothic fantasy, alchemy, time manipulation, and telepathy, all while exploring the dynamic relationship between the protagonists.
Roger didn’t know there was this much blood in the human body. It seems impossible, ridiculous, a profligate waste of something that should be precious and rare—and most importantly, contained. This b... - #3
Save:'The Alchemy of Stone' by Ekaterina Sedia is a steampunk novel revolving around the character of Mattie, an emancipated automaton who is on a journey of self-discovery and independence. The story delves into themes of love, freedom, and the struggle to find one's identity in a world filled with political unrest and societal conflicts. Through Mattie's interactions with various characters like gargoyles, alchemists, and mechanics, the reader is taken on a journey through a complex and intriguing world where the lines between humanity and machinery blur.
The narrative is filled with multiple plotlines running parallel to each other, weaving together themes of rebellion, friendship, and the search for purpose. The writing style is described as charming, haunting, and beautifully written, with a focus on character development and intricate world-building that immerses the reader into a fantastical steampunk setting.
We scale the rough bricks of the building’s facade. Their crumbling edges soften under our claw-like fingers; they jut out of the flat, adenoid face of the wall to provide easy footholds. We could’ve ... - #4
Save:The Mystic Marriage by Heather Rose Jones is a historical fantasy novel set in the fictional country of Alpennia in the 18th century. The story follows Antuniet, a character seeking to restore her family's honor through alchemy after being disgraced by her brother's treachery. The book delves into themes of alchemy, intrigue, romance, and friendship, with complex and well-developed characters like Margerit, Barbara, Jeanne, and Antuniet, each adding depth to the narrative. The writing style seamlessly weaves together elements of fantasy, politics, and romance, creating a rich and detailed world where magic is scientific and miracles happen.
Antuniet looked up from the ruined crucible on the workbench and swore softly. Dawn had come and gone while the delicate mixture cooled from a glowing slurry to a glassy, charred lump. Another failure...
(Also, see 100 recommendations for the series Alpennia ) - #5
Save:Set in Renaissance Italy, 'The Red Lily Crown' by Elizabeth Loupas follows the tale of shifting loyalties, murderous family dynamics, and two souls trying to survive amidst the political turmoil of the Medici family. The story revolves around commoner heroine Chiara Nerini, who becomes entangled in Duke Francesco de Medici's obsession with alchemy, leading to a dangerous journey filled with intrigue, alchemy experiments, and the pursuit of the Philosopher's Stone. The narrative is rich in historical details, showcasing the autocratic rule of the Medicis and the daily lives of those living under their influence.
The book expertly weaves together elements of historical drama, political intrigue, and alchemy, creating a gripping and intense tale that keeps readers engaged until the very end. Through well-developed characters like Chiara and Ruan, the story explores themes of hard work, intelligence, and cunning as they navigate the complex world of Renaissance Italy, making the reader care for them as individuals and as a pair. Loupas's descriptive writing style brings to life the intricacies of court life, Renaissance fashion, and the power dynamics at play during that era.
The prince was a Medici, richer than Satan, and people said he loved only two things—women and alchemy. To feed her Nonna and her two little sisters, Chiara would have sold herself to him quick as a s... - #6
Save:The Poison Master by Liz Williams is a fantasy novel that follows the story of Dee, an alchemist neuropharmacologist living on a faraway planet. Dee's goal is to save her sister from the Lords of Night, but her life takes a turn when one of her clients dies after consuming her drug concoction. She then meets Ari, the Poison Master from another planet, who offers to help her. The book delves into a morally and artistically complex plot with intricate worldbuilding, compelling characters, and a touch of romance. The writing style is described as solid, well-done, and enjoyable, with a balance between setting logic, plot, and character development.
Are you certain this unnatural device will not fail us?” Sir John Cheke's face was a study in apprehension. Beyond the windows of the college hall, the May twilight grew blue and dim. Cheke reached fo... - #7
Save:In Newton's Cannon, J. Gregory Keyes crafts an alternative history set in the 17th century, blending science and magic to create a world where historical figures like Benjamin Franklin and Sir Isaac Newton navigate a realm of alchemy and invention. The story follows the characters as they grapple with dark forces from another plane seeking to enslave or destroy humanity, all while exploring the possibilities of a universe governed by alchemy and mystical advancements.
The book is praised for its intricate plot twists, well-designed narrative turns, and the vivid portrayal of historical characters in a magical context. Keyes' writing style is described as consistent, dark, mystical, and engaging, seamlessly blending elements of fantasy, alternate history, and science fiction to create a captivating and imaginative tale.
Louis awoke to the clatter of Bontemps, his valet, putting away his folding bed, as he did every morning. A frigid wind blustered in through the open windows of his bedchamber, and Louis greeted it wi... - #8
Save:The Scarlet Alchemist by Kylie Lee Baker is a YA Fantasy novel set in an alternate historical China with elements of alchemy and magic. The story follows Zilan, a talented young girl from a poor province, as she navigates the challenges of becoming a Royal Alchemist and gets entangled in the dark world of the royal family. Alongside her cousins, Zilan practices illegal resurrections to make ends meet, but her life takes a drastic turn when she encounters the Crown Prince, Li Hong, who involves her in dangerous royal intrigues. The book is filled with twists and turns, a mix of romance and adventure, and a well-developed alchemy system that adds depth to the narrative. The writing style is engaging, with vivid descriptions of settings and characters that immerse the reader in this captivating world.
- #9
Save:Blue and Gold follows Saloninus, an alchemist known for his charisma and deceit, as he navigates a life of crime and deception while attempting to fulfill the demands of his patron, Prince Procas. The novella delves into Saloninus' pursuit of creating the elixir of eternal life and transforming base metal into gold, all while dealing with the consequences of his actions, including the accidental poisoning of his wife. The story unfolds with an unreliable narrator, blending elements of alchemy with themes of deception, ambition, and the complexities of human nature.
The narrative of Blue and Gold is presented in a series of scenes that shift between past and present, gradually revealing more about Saloninus' character and motivations. The writing style captures the essence of academia and alchemy, using the science of alchemy as a metaphor for various aspects of life such as time, money, social status, and personal growth. Through its fast-paced and dramatic storytelling, the novella explores themes of trust, morality, and the blurred lines between truth and deception in a world where nothing is as it seems.
“Ah.” The barman nodded and turned away. Alchemists, murderers and other cheapskates, the back of his neck seemed to be saying. I picked up my beer and looked at it. Worse things had happened, but not... - #10
Save:Meggy Swann, a disabled girl, is sent to live with her alchemist father in London during the Elizabethan Era. Despite facing rejection and hardship, Meggy learns to navigate the challenges of her new life with determination and wit. The book explores themes of disability, resilience, friendship, and survival in a historical setting, offering a vivid portrayal of life in Elizabethan London through the eyes of a strong and engaging character.
e toads and vipers,” the girl said, as her granny often had, “ye toads and vipers,” and she snuffled a great snuffle that echoed in the empty room. She was alone in the strange, dark, cold, skinny hou...
