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4.08 AVERAGE
4.08 AVERAGE
Deliciously violent. When I first picked this book up, I was so excited for a Chinese-inspired historical fantasy (right up my alley). I thought the plot was cute at first but then it got dark and bloody and brutal and I LOVED it.
Zilan, the main character, was actually so likable and relatable and she had flaws! She was so complex and developed unlike a lot of other main FMCs in other books. Each character was so well thought out and developed and it was so brilliantly written.
I literally can’t wait to read Blood Orchid (the second book in the series).
Zilan, the main character, was actually so likable and relatable and she had flaws! She was so complex and developed unlike a lot of other main FMCs in other books. Each character was so well thought out and developed and it was so brilliantly written.
I literally can’t wait to read Blood Orchid (the second book in the series).
adventurous
challenging
dark
emotional
tense
medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
Plot
Strong character development:
Yes
Loveable characters:
Yes
Diverse cast of characters:
Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus:
No
Horrifying yet compelling.
adventurous
challenging
emotional
funny
hopeful
sad
tense
medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
Character
Loveable characters:
Yes
Diverse cast of characters:
No
adventurous
mysterious
tense
medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
A mix
Strong character development:
No
Loveable characters:
No
Diverse cast of characters:
No
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Yes
adventurous
dark
mysterious
medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
A mix
Strong character development:
Yes
Loveable characters:
Complicated
Diverse cast of characters:
Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Yes
I had been eyeing this up for quite some time. I’m glad I finally got around to it. Interesting plot and character development. The twists were all over the place, I don’t know if I’m attached enough to the main character but I probably will read the sequel anyway!
adventurous
mysterious
medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
Plot
Strong character development:
Yes
Loveable characters:
Yes
Diverse cast of characters:
No
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Yes
challenging
dark
emotional
mysterious
sad
tense
medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
A mix
Strong character development:
Yes
Loveable characters:
Yes
Diverse cast of characters:
Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Yes
adventurous
dark
emotional
mysterious
tense
medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
A mix
Strong character development:
Yes
Loveable characters:
Yes
Diverse cast of characters:
Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Yes
Kylie Lee Baker's The Scarlet Alchemist is a riveting blend of fantasy, intrigue, and emotional depth that captivates from the first page. Set against the backdrop of a richly imagined ancient China, the story follows Zilan, a young woman with grand aspirations to become a royal alchemist. Zilan's journey from her impoverished village to the grandeur of the capital is not just physical; it's a journey of self-discovery, brimming with challenges and wonders.
One of the book's most impressive elements is its intricate depiction of alchemy. Baker's imagination shines in her exploration of this mystical science, particularly the illegal practice of resurrecting the dead. This aspect of the story is tragic and fascinating, offering fertile ground for exploring themes of life, death, and the ethical dilemmas that come with such power. The internal workings of this magical system are thoughtfully crafted, adding a layer of realism to the fantastical elements.
The novel truly excels in portraying the imperial court's political machinations. As Zilan gets entangled in the dangerous games of the royal family, the story takes thrilling twists and turns. Baker skillfully weaves a narrative where the line between friend and foe is constantly blurred, keeping the reader on edge. A looming assassination attempt and the Crown Prince's involvement in Zilan's life adds a gripping political dimension to the plot.
What sets The Scarlet Alchemist apart is its emotional depth. Zilan is an easy protagonist to root for – her struggles and triumphs feel deeply personal. The elements of body horror and the moral implications of her alchemical abilities add a poignant layer to her character development.
The Scarlet Alchemist is fascinating, offering a fresh take on alchemical magic within a beautifully crafted world. It's a must-read for fantasy fans and those intrigued by the darker aspects of magic and power. Baker has crafted a tale that is as thought-provoking as it is entertaining, making The Scarlet Alchemist a memorable addition to the genre.
Thank you to Inkyard Press for providing an e-Arc of The Scarlet Alchemist by Kylie Lee Baker for my review.
One of the book's most impressive elements is its intricate depiction of alchemy. Baker's imagination shines in her exploration of this mystical science, particularly the illegal practice of resurrecting the dead. This aspect of the story is tragic and fascinating, offering fertile ground for exploring themes of life, death, and the ethical dilemmas that come with such power. The internal workings of this magical system are thoughtfully crafted, adding a layer of realism to the fantastical elements.
The novel truly excels in portraying the imperial court's political machinations. As Zilan gets entangled in the dangerous games of the royal family, the story takes thrilling twists and turns. Baker skillfully weaves a narrative where the line between friend and foe is constantly blurred, keeping the reader on edge. A looming assassination attempt and the Crown Prince's involvement in Zilan's life adds a gripping political dimension to the plot.
What sets The Scarlet Alchemist apart is its emotional depth. Zilan is an easy protagonist to root for – her struggles and triumphs feel deeply personal. The elements of body horror and the moral implications of her alchemical abilities add a poignant layer to her character development.
The Scarlet Alchemist is fascinating, offering a fresh take on alchemical magic within a beautifully crafted world. It's a must-read for fantasy fans and those intrigued by the darker aspects of magic and power. Baker has crafted a tale that is as thought-provoking as it is entertaining, making The Scarlet Alchemist a memorable addition to the genre.
Thank you to Inkyard Press for providing an e-Arc of The Scarlet Alchemist by Kylie Lee Baker for my review.
I wish I could unread it so I can remove all the contents from my brain.