Title: Alchemy Ever After
Series: N/A
Author: Raine and Siôn O’Tierney
Genre: Urban Fantasy/Steampunk
Length: Novella (57 pages)
Publisher: Dreamspinner Press (January 28th, 2015)
Heat Level: Low
Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥4Hearts
Blurb: The city of New Alexandria is filled with powerful magicians-in-training and mechanical follies, the world’s largest library, and marvels beyond compare. The allure of this modern metropolis draws young people from all over the world, but Idrian has come instead for the opportunity to learn the new art of alchemy.
He’s been taken as an apprentice by Maketh, a scholar experimenting with new ways to combine technology and the ancient mystic arts. Together they’ve animated a living ice sculpture. Idrian cannot wait to unveil the sculpture alongside the other wonders at the annual Spring Festival.
After witnessing his master in a passionate embrace with another student, Idrian’s mind drifts to things beyond alchemy. And when a warm touch accidently awakens the consciousness within the living sculpture, Idrian learns firsthand about physicality and the magic of passion.
ISBN: 978-1-63216-301-1
Product Link: http://www.dreamspinnerpress.com/store/product_info.php?products_id=5987
Reviewer: Prime
Review: This is a fun read and exactly what the blurb says – so no hidden surprises and the plot is simple. It verges more towards fantasy than steampunk, but nevertheless the world of New Alexandrina is an interesting place modelled on the ancient city of Alexandrina. Just like the meme says, in many fantasy or parallel universes, there are zeppelins!
This story is sort of like Idrian’s coming of age, with his master, Maketh and his lover/student Raj, being Idrian’s teachers. The story of Idrian and the ice sculpture is both cute and passionate. You don’t have to strictly like (or love) steampunk to thoroughly enjoy this one!
* I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review through http://mmgoodbookreviews.wordpress.com *