Author: Liesel Schwarz
Category: Fiction
Publisher: Del Rey
Release Date: 3-5-13
It is 1903, and the world is divided between light and shadow. On the side of light is a wondrous science that has transformed everyday life by harnessing magical energies to ingenious new technologies. But each advance of science has come at the expense of shadow—the traditional realm of the supernatural. Now two ancient powers are preparing to strike back. Blood-sucking immortal Nightwalkers and their spellcasting Alchemist allies have a plan to cover the whole world in shadow. All they require is the sacrifice of a certain young woman whose past conceals a dangerous secret. But when they come after Elle, they get more than they bargained for. This enterprising young woman, the daughter of a scientific genius, has reserves of bravery and determination that even she scarcely suspects. Now she is about to meet her match in more ways than one: a handsome yet infuriating Warlock named Hugh Marsh, whose agenda is as suspect as his charms are annoyingly irresistible. – Goodreads
I confess that I was originally drawn to this book because of the cover and its setting in an alternate Victorian era. This steampunk adventure was very enjoyable with a heroine that I found to be appealing. I think I like the way that steampunk allows a Victorian era female character to step out of societal bindings and make her own way. Elle is no exception, as she is able to be tough while also being feminine by the standards of the time. I think that’s why I like steampunk. It allows for that historical feel with modern sensibilities. The supporting characters ranged from the mysterious to those that will betray Elle and Marsh. I also thought that Elle herself was well put together as her scientific mind has to grapple with some huge revelations about who she really is. The story itself packed in a lot of traveling and amazing contraptions for one book, and I am curious to see what stories the subsequent books in this series will tell.
I thought A Conspiracy of Alchemists was a very fun read! I loved the steampunk, of course, but it wasn’t so detailed and overwhelming that the novelty overshadowed the story itself, which can sometimes happen in this genre. There was a very sweet romance that fit in nicely with the plot, but I would not call this book a romance, per se. I think that this book would be excellent for those that are fans of steampunk, but it would also be good for those that are new to this area of fiction. There were a few plot twists that I did not see coming and a very artful combination of science an the paranormal, which made the story entertaining and interesting.
I received this galley from the publisher in exchange for my honest review.
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I’m quite a fan of steampunk, so i’m a bit surprised that I haven’t heard much about this. Thanks for the honest review- and for introducing it to me!
– Ellie at The Selkie Reads Stories
I’ve just started to gravitate to the work of steampunk and the this title practically clamped my attention. I’ll have to look this one up. 😀
The steampunk and Elle as a main character sounds great.
Brandi @ Blkosiner’s Book Blog
Oh gosh, this book sounds like such a “me” book! I forgot it was releasing this spring, I need to look into it, especially after seeing your 4 stars. Thanks for the reminder and review, Kate!
Wendy @ The Midnight Garden
I actually don’t read a lot of steampunk, but this certainly sounds interesting! The combination of elements – steampunk and magic and an alternate setting – makes it sound like a book I’d enjoy. I’ll definitely have to check it out.
This book sounds fun. I love reading steampunk stories, because there’s usually some very imaginative technologies within. I hadn’t heard of this one, but the cover also drew me in as soon as I saw it. I’m going to add it to my list. 🙂
I’m thrilled that you liked this! I’ve seen mixed reviews, but I really wanted to read it when I first read the description, and now I can go for it in full confidence. 🙂
Elle sounds fabulous; I think I’m going to get along with her wonderfully. Great review!
Sounds like a great read! I have this one on my Kindle – I’ve had it for quite some time, actually, but kept putting it off because of all the mixed reviews. Yours might’ve convinced me to give this a go, though. You made it sound like my kind of book. Great review!
Chri @ Ink Skies