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honnari_hannya's review against another edition
3.0
If you liked And I Darken by Kiersten White, this book might be for you. It has a complex, prickly female main character with quite a voice. The setting is an alternate history version of the French Revolution if alchemy existed, though that event takes a background seat in this particular plot. This was a very quick read, and highly plot-driven if that is what you're after.
However, despite the strong start and an interesting premise, I think this failed to live up to that promise. I quite liked the main character, Thea Hope. I'm a sucker for the kind of fiercely intelligent, practical, sharp girl that she is. Her drive and ambition are second perhaps only to her mother, Marguerite, who is just as complicated a character that I wish we were able to spend a bit more time with in the story. The idea of two women being the most adept, most capable alchemists in such a male-dominated field—and the complex relationship between mother and daughter that oscillates between pride and jealousy, love and hatred—was so incredibly appealing to me, and I was quite disappointed to see it fizzle out within the first few chapters. Especially when it was replaced by a story ultimately about men—Thea's relationships with men, what men want to do with her, how men want to use her—instead of a badass story about a mother and daughter, and the sacrifices they make of and for each other.
There was a bit of self-awareness re: this point in the character of Rahel, but she was high-handed and overly preachy about her sense of morals. More a caricature than a character, which is something you could say for all but Thea and Marguerite. I felt like Will could also have been a more complex characters, with more interesting motives; not that saving your own skin isn't interesting, but little of his choices beforehand did anything to deepen him as a character. A typical "nice guy" with all the pomp included, and he's supposed to be the biggest villain here? (Not counting the curse itself, of course.)
Overall, I really enjoyed the beginning for its strong characters, but the stakes never really escalated. The middle flagged and the end became a little too saccharine and neat for me—with so-called bad guys having changes of heart, and everyone lives, and it all works out, etc.
Thanks to NetGalley and St. Martin's Press/Wednesday Books for providing this free e-ARC in exchange for an honest review.
However, despite the strong start and an interesting premise, I think this failed to live up to that promise. I quite liked the main character, Thea Hope. I'm a sucker for the kind of fiercely intelligent, practical, sharp girl that she is. Her drive and ambition are second perhaps only to her mother, Marguerite, who is just as complicated a character that I wish we were able to spend a bit more time with in the story. The idea of two women being the most adept, most capable alchemists in such a male-dominated field—and the complex relationship between mother and daughter that oscillates between pride and jealousy, love and hatred—was so incredibly appealing to me, and I was quite disappointed to see it fizzle out within the first few chapters. Especially when it was replaced by a story ultimately about men—Thea's relationships with men, what men want to do with her, how men want to use her—instead of a badass story about a mother and daughter, and the sacrifices they make of and for each other.
There was a bit of self-awareness re: this point in the character of Rahel, but she was high-handed and overly preachy about her sense of morals. More a caricature than a character, which is something you could say for all but Thea and Marguerite. I felt like Will could also have been a more complex characters, with more interesting motives; not that saving your own skin isn't interesting, but little of his choices beforehand did anything to deepen him as a character. A typical "nice guy" with all the pomp included, and he's supposed to be the biggest villain here? (Not counting the curse itself, of course.)
Overall, I really enjoyed the beginning for its strong characters, but the stakes never really escalated. The middle flagged and the end became a little too saccharine and neat for me—with so-called bad guys having changes of heart, and everyone lives, and it all works out, etc.
Thanks to NetGalley and St. Martin's Press/Wednesday Books for providing this free e-ARC in exchange for an honest review.
rebicon's review against another edition
3.0
I won a copy through a giveaway.
Overall, I liked the book but the beginning was very slow. The latter half of the book did seem to pick up but not a ton. I was initially drawn in by the cover, because it’s beautiful, and the beginning of the story did seem to have a strong setup. I felt as though some elements to the story seemed forced because things felt rushed towards the end of the book.
I think I would have liked more information about the characters to create more of an emotional connection and to explain some of their actions. I think more information about the characters could have also opened up more about the world and the story itself.
I did enjoy the dynamic between Thea and Dominic, especially because Dominic seemed to be the voice if reason most of the time. I also enjoyed the setting description, the history, and all of the information about alchemy.
Overall, I liked the book but the beginning was very slow. The latter half of the book did seem to pick up but not a ton. I was initially drawn in by the cover, because it’s beautiful, and the beginning of the story did seem to have a strong setup. I felt as though some elements to the story seemed forced because things felt rushed towards the end of the book.
I think I would have liked more information about the characters to create more of an emotional connection and to explain some of their actions. I think more information about the characters could have also opened up more about the world and the story itself.
I did enjoy the dynamic between Thea and Dominic, especially because Dominic seemed to be the voice if reason most of the time. I also enjoyed the setting description, the history, and all of the information about alchemy.
qkat's review against another edition
4.0
Pleasantly surprised by this book. I didn't think it would be a book I would enjoy, but it kept me captivated throughout. This book did not get the hype as others, which is a good thing. To me, it was a sleeper hit.
marieintheraw's review against another edition
3.0
Overall, this is a very plot-driven story that sometimes gets a bit muddled in the execution.
I received an ecopy of this book through Wednesday Books through Netgalley; however, all opinions are my own.
I received an ecopy of this book through Wednesday Books through Netgalley; however, all opinions are my own.
ladytiara's review against another edition
4.0
I'm normally a voracious reader, but lately, I've been in a bit of a slump. Most of the books I've picked up lately just haven't grabbed me, and I've been in search of a book that will pull me in and break my slump. A Golden Fury was just the book I needed. I devoured it and my slump is over. A Golden Fury is a great read.
Thea Hope is a terrific character. She's a feisty young woman in an era when woman had few rights or prospects. She wants to be an alchemist like her mother, but when her mother comes close to making the Philosopher's Stone (the ultimate goal of alchemy), she shuts Thea out, and then goes mad and nearly kills Thea. Thea is forced to flee revolutionary France to Oxford where the father she's never met lives. But safety is elusive, and everyone in the alchemical world is after Thea because she has the knowledge to make the elusive Philosopher's Stone.
I found the story really engrossing. It falls into the historical fiction category, because it's set in a actual time and place, but there's a fantasy/magical element because of the alchemy. I think the real world historical setting worked well for the story. The late eighteenth century is a time of revolution and enlightenment, and the ancient art of alchemy is looked down upon by many as a fool's passion. But there are wealthy patrons willing to pay a lot of money for alchemists to do their bidding, even if the practice is considered suspect.The plot is fast-paced, and Thea is in near constant danger, from a mother who tries to kill, and then from many others who want her unique skills. She has to rely on her wits and her vast alchemical knowledge to survive, all while fighting against the restrictions society places on women. It's a compelling story, and I highly recommend it for anyone who likes historical fantasy and books with strong heroines.
I received a digital ARC from the publisher in return for a review. Thank you to Wednesday Books for the opportunity to be on the blog tour.
Thea Hope is a terrific character. She's a feisty young woman in an era when woman had few rights or prospects. She wants to be an alchemist like her mother, but when her mother comes close to making the Philosopher's Stone (the ultimate goal of alchemy), she shuts Thea out, and then goes mad and nearly kills Thea. Thea is forced to flee revolutionary France to Oxford where the father she's never met lives. But safety is elusive, and everyone in the alchemical world is after Thea because she has the knowledge to make the elusive Philosopher's Stone.
I found the story really engrossing. It falls into the historical fiction category, because it's set in a actual time and place, but there's a fantasy/magical element because of the alchemy. I think the real world historical setting worked well for the story. The late eighteenth century is a time of revolution and enlightenment, and the ancient art of alchemy is looked down upon by many as a fool's passion. But there are wealthy patrons willing to pay a lot of money for alchemists to do their bidding, even if the practice is considered suspect.The plot is fast-paced, and Thea is in near constant danger, from a mother who tries to kill, and then from many others who want her unique skills. She has to rely on her wits and her vast alchemical knowledge to survive, all while fighting against the restrictions society places on women. It's a compelling story, and I highly recommend it for anyone who likes historical fantasy and books with strong heroines.
I received a digital ARC from the publisher in return for a review. Thank you to Wednesday Books for the opportunity to be on the blog tour.
rhrie38's review against another edition
Boring, didn't like the way things were going anywho
lyoungthebookfae's review against another edition
5.0
Thrilling, intoxicating, and so very wonderful! I had no idea where the story was going at points, and it surprised me in the best way. It has just a hint of magic and darkness, enough to satisfy, and I loved that so much. Perhaps not as ‘spooky’ as some like for a fall read, but I would still recommend it for the spookier season! ;)
Thank you for allowing me an advanced copy to read!
Thank you for allowing me an advanced copy to read!
ameserole's review against another edition
4.0
I have received this ARC from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
A Golden Fury was something. In it, you will meet characters that you will eventually hate. Unless you have some insta-hate feelings but I'm not sure if that's even a thing. It should be though because so many people annoyed the living shit out of me. For example, Thea's mom, supposed best friend, and her father.
Speaking of Thea, I loved how she wanted to be a alchemist. No matter how awful her own mother was towards her, she still tried to help her out. Then when she was sent away to go meet her sperm donor, I had no idea what to expect. To say I wasn't surprised by how selfish he was would be an understatement. Thea definitely needs better parents who see her as a human being, instead of whatever they were thinking would float their boats.
Then there's Will. Oh lord, at first I was blind. I didn't see how manipulative this little turd was until it was way too late. Boy, do I hate him so much and I am not satisfied by how this book ended one freaking bit.
Besides that, I did like the whole plot throughout this book. Even if the twists were a bit weird and confused me. I probably would've liked this book a whole lot more if I got a different ending.. but I will accept what I got. I guess.
A Golden Fury was something. In it, you will meet characters that you will eventually hate. Unless you have some insta-hate feelings but I'm not sure if that's even a thing. It should be though because so many people annoyed the living shit out of me. For example, Thea's mom, supposed best friend, and her father.
Speaking of Thea, I loved how she wanted to be a alchemist. No matter how awful her own mother was towards her, she still tried to help her out. Then when she was sent away to go meet her sperm donor, I had no idea what to expect. To say I wasn't surprised by how selfish he was would be an understatement. Thea definitely needs better parents who see her as a human being, instead of whatever they were thinking would float their boats.
Then there's Will. Oh lord, at first I was blind. I didn't see how manipulative this little turd was until it was way too late. Boy, do I hate him so much and I am not satisfied by how this book ended one freaking bit.
Besides that, I did like the whole plot throughout this book. Even if the twists were a bit weird and confused me. I probably would've liked this book a whole lot more if I got a different ending.. but I will accept what I got. I guess.