What do you think?
Rate this book
Wyvern #1
The Nazi Alchemist
A magical ritual gone wrong. English aristocrat Clarissa Wyvern disappeared, presumed dead. A cover-up by the Gestapo to protect Professor Lustgarten, Adolf Hitler’s one-time mentor and closest friend.
James Valentine is an SAS officer fighting behind enemy lines. When Clarissa’s father, spy-master Sir Harry Wyvern, tasks him with kidnapping Professor Lustgarten, James embarks on a dangerous mission to the Mediterranean island of Panos.
Sir Harry has laid a trap. When Lustgarten learns that buried on the island is a codex containing instructions left by the High Priests of Atlantis on how a man might become a god, he cannot resist the bait.
However, Hitler’s patience with the once brilliant professor is at an end.
In the years since Clarissa’s death, Lustgarten’s mental state has deteriorated. He believes that Clarissa is tormenting him from beyond the grave.
Hitler is decided. No one must know that the occultist was once his mentor. The Fuehrer orders his old regimental comrade, Sepp Kahn, to silence Lustgarten once and for all.
Can James Valentine escape to Egypt with Lustgarten or will the murderous ‘Genghis’ Kahn prevent it? Or will Clarissa Wyvern surprise them all, and finally have her revenge?
James Valentine is an SAS officer fighting behind enemy lines. When Clarissa’s father, spy-master Sir Harry Wyvern, tasks him with kidnapping Professor Lustgarten, James embarks on a dangerous mission to the Mediterranean island of Panos.
Sir Harry has laid a trap. When Lustgarten learns that buried on the island is a codex containing instructions left by the High Priests of Atlantis on how a man might become a god, he cannot resist the bait.
However, Hitler’s patience with the once brilliant professor is at an end.
In the years since Clarissa’s death, Lustgarten’s mental state has deteriorated. He believes that Clarissa is tormenting him from beyond the grave.
Hitler is decided. No one must know that the occultist was once his mentor. The Fuehrer orders his old regimental comrade, Sepp Kahn, to silence Lustgarten once and for all.
Can James Valentine escape to Egypt with Lustgarten or will the murderous ‘Genghis’ Kahn prevent it? Or will Clarissa Wyvern surprise them all, and finally have her revenge?
461 pages, Kindle Edition
Published September 5, 2023
87 people are currently reading
63 people want to read
About the author
Gomery Kimber
9 books39 followersWinner of Mark Dawson’s SPF Foundation Scholarship 2023, in the Thriller category, Gomery Kimber is the author of exciting, thought-provoking novels: The Big Shilling trilogy, the forthcoming Justin Martello adventures, & the Wyvern Spy Saga.
Download my anti-Nazi novella, Vampire of Munich, for free from this link: https://storyoriginapp.com/giveaways/...
Download my anti-Nazi novella, Vampire of Munich, for free from this link: https://storyoriginapp.com/giveaways/...
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 16 of 16 reviews
October 15, 2021
"No Air Native, No Man Kindred" weaves a tangled web of philosophical and historical intrigue. Author Gomery Kimber has the refreshing boldness to match the scope of Colin Wilson's "The Philosopher's Stone", Dennis Wheatley's "They Used Dark Forces", and Norman Mailer's 'The Castle In The Forest' in a novel which rewardingly executes these heavyweight ambitions with spy-thriller aplomb.
"No Air Native, No Man Kindred" is no mere 'novel of ideas' (an action story which sneaks in ideas where it can) — instead, the philosophy underpinning this text has an intrinsic velocity that propels the story to its daring and brilliant conclusion..
"No Air Native, No Man Kindred" is no mere 'novel of ideas' (an action story which sneaks in ideas where it can) — instead, the philosophy underpinning this text has an intrinsic velocity that propels the story to its daring and brilliant conclusion..
November 21, 2021
An excellent read that tackles some big concepts masterfully. It is a hefty tome that could be a bit intimidating to some but in the skilful hands of Gomery Kimber it has pace and narrative that keeps the reader enthralled. The characterisation and the historical context coupled with some intriguing concepts around myth and religion has created an atmospheric novel that promises more as it is part of the Wyvern family saga....I look forward to more in the series.
November 10, 2023
I received a copy of this book from the folks at Storyoriginapp.com and the author in return for an honest review.
The theme of this story revolves around the Nazi obsession with occultism and their belief in alchemy (hence the title). The story successfully weaves history and fiction as the rise of Adolf Hitler from a lowly corporal in the trenches of World War I to that of the leader of Nazi Germany.
The premise of the story is that Hitler is treated by Professor Lustgarten, who can "cure" him of his gas blindness, which was the result of his being exposed to mustard gas near Ypres Salient in Belgium on October 14, 1918) and the mentorship role that Lustgarten plays as Hitler is convinced to begin his rise to power in post-war Germany. This temporary blindness that Hitler suffered as the result of the British gas was later determined to be hysterical amblyopia, a psychiatric disorder that can make sufferers lose their sight.
In the years leading up to the Second World War a British aristocrat, Clarissa Wyvern, disappears and is presumed dead which results in a cover-up by the Gestapo to protect the involvement of Professor Lutsgarten in her disappearance.
In the early years of the Second World War (the timeline appears to be after the start of Operation Barbarossa - June 1941 but before the battle of Stalingrad - August 1942), the Nazi obsession with occultism and belief in alchemy is personified by Professor Lutsgarten's search for an ancient codex, that is alleged to help a man become a god, on the Mediterranean island of Panos. This is an elaborate scheme that was put forth by British spymaster, Sir Harry Wyvern (father of Clarissa) to kidnap Professor Lustgarten at the behest of Winston Churchill (who was the Prime Minister of the UK and the leader of the free world at the time).
Questions were raised about Lustgarten's touch with reality in the years since Clarissa Wyvern's death (as Lustgarten believes that she is tormenting him from beyond the grave) and Hitler's patience with his former mentor is coming to an end and he dispatches one of the leaders of the Einstazgruppen (the dreaded "death squads" that were prevalent during the early years of the Second World War, particularly during the Soviet Campaign), Sepp Kahn to lead a team to remove his relationship to the occultist.
Once the trap has been laid by Sir Harry Wyvern and Lustgarten has started to make his way to way to the isle of Panos, a team of SOE operatives led by Jack Valentine is sent to kidnap Lustgarten.
In deciding on giving a rating for this book, I would give the book a solid four stars and believe that it would be enjoyed by readers of historical fiction.
As with all my literary ramblings, this is just my five cents worth.
The theme of this story revolves around the Nazi obsession with occultism and their belief in alchemy (hence the title). The story successfully weaves history and fiction as the rise of Adolf Hitler from a lowly corporal in the trenches of World War I to that of the leader of Nazi Germany.
The premise of the story is that Hitler is treated by Professor Lustgarten, who can "cure" him of his gas blindness, which was the result of his being exposed to mustard gas near Ypres Salient in Belgium on October 14, 1918) and the mentorship role that Lustgarten plays as Hitler is convinced to begin his rise to power in post-war Germany. This temporary blindness that Hitler suffered as the result of the British gas was later determined to be hysterical amblyopia, a psychiatric disorder that can make sufferers lose their sight.
In the years leading up to the Second World War a British aristocrat, Clarissa Wyvern, disappears and is presumed dead which results in a cover-up by the Gestapo to protect the involvement of Professor Lutsgarten in her disappearance.
In the early years of the Second World War (the timeline appears to be after the start of Operation Barbarossa - June 1941 but before the battle of Stalingrad - August 1942), the Nazi obsession with occultism and belief in alchemy is personified by Professor Lutsgarten's search for an ancient codex, that is alleged to help a man become a god, on the Mediterranean island of Panos. This is an elaborate scheme that was put forth by British spymaster, Sir Harry Wyvern (father of Clarissa) to kidnap Professor Lustgarten at the behest of Winston Churchill (who was the Prime Minister of the UK and the leader of the free world at the time).
Questions were raised about Lustgarten's touch with reality in the years since Clarissa Wyvern's death (as Lustgarten believes that she is tormenting him from beyond the grave) and Hitler's patience with his former mentor is coming to an end and he dispatches one of the leaders of the Einstazgruppen (the dreaded "death squads" that were prevalent during the early years of the Second World War, particularly during the Soviet Campaign), Sepp Kahn to lead a team to remove his relationship to the occultist.
Once the trap has been laid by Sir Harry Wyvern and Lustgarten has started to make his way to way to the isle of Panos, a team of SOE operatives led by Jack Valentine is sent to kidnap Lustgarten.
In deciding on giving a rating for this book, I would give the book a solid four stars and believe that it would be enjoyed by readers of historical fiction.
As with all my literary ramblings, this is just my five cents worth.
February 17, 2024
"The Nazi Alchemist" by Gomery Kimber is a riveting blend of history, fiction, and mysticism that captivates from start to finish. Set against the backdrop of Nazi Germany and World War II, the story delves into the depths of occultism and the pursuit of power.
At its core, the novel explores the Nazi obsession with alchemy and the quest for immortality. Professor Lustgarten, a key figure in Hitler's inner circle, becomes embroiled in a dangerous game of espionage and intrigue as he seeks an ancient codex rumored to grant godlike powers. Alongside Lustgarten, a cast of complex characters, including British aristocrat Clarissa Wyvern and SOE operative Jack Valentine, navigate a world rife with political machinations, betrayal, and moral ambiguity.
The narrative skillfully intertwines historical events with fantastical elements, blurring the lines between reality and myth. From Hitler's rise to power to the shadowy workings of British intelligence, Kimber weaves a tale that keeps readers absorbed until the very end.
While the philosophical musings may not be to everyone's taste, they add depth and complexity to the story, complementing the fast-paced action and suspense. Themes of mental illness, forbidden romance, and the quest for ultimate power resonate throughout, creating a multifaceted narrative that explores the darker aspects of human nature.
In summary, "The Nazi Alchemist" is a gripping read that offers a unique take on World War II history and the occult. With its richly drawn characters, intricate plot, and thought-provoking themes, this book is sure to appeal to fans of historical fiction and the occult alike.
At its core, the novel explores the Nazi obsession with alchemy and the quest for immortality. Professor Lustgarten, a key figure in Hitler's inner circle, becomes embroiled in a dangerous game of espionage and intrigue as he seeks an ancient codex rumored to grant godlike powers. Alongside Lustgarten, a cast of complex characters, including British aristocrat Clarissa Wyvern and SOE operative Jack Valentine, navigate a world rife with political machinations, betrayal, and moral ambiguity.
The narrative skillfully intertwines historical events with fantastical elements, blurring the lines between reality and myth. From Hitler's rise to power to the shadowy workings of British intelligence, Kimber weaves a tale that keeps readers absorbed until the very end.
While the philosophical musings may not be to everyone's taste, they add depth and complexity to the story, complementing the fast-paced action and suspense. Themes of mental illness, forbidden romance, and the quest for ultimate power resonate throughout, creating a multifaceted narrative that explores the darker aspects of human nature.
In summary, "The Nazi Alchemist" is a gripping read that offers a unique take on World War II history and the occult. With its richly drawn characters, intricate plot, and thought-provoking themes, this book is sure to appeal to fans of historical fiction and the occult alike.
Read
December 20, 2024I have previously read an unpublished short story by this author which I found hard work – primarily because it was not my preferred genre. Once again, with this full-length novel, I found it hard going. Not the story line as such, but the complexities of the characters and the style of writing. There are many complex characters introduced, and many of them had a well-developed educational background with University studies under the belt, thus at times, to me anyway, the language utilised is what I suspect was used by academics in the times the story is set – that is the Hitler era of Germany from the 1st World war days, but primarily through the 2nd World war days. I found the story line quite interesting, and although at times I had to put the book down, I persevered and completed the book. I am still somewhat bemused by it – not the story line as I have indicated, but more the style and some of the connections raised.
Other reviewers have commented on the unusual connections in the story between religion and mythology and the idea that religion could be the basis for Odin to be the god of the alchemist. Perhaps pondering on these points in the story has clouded my view when I find I am only able to rate the book a four-star story.
Other reviewers have commented on the unusual connections in the story between religion and mythology and the idea that religion could be the basis for Odin to be the god of the alchemist. Perhaps pondering on these points in the story has clouded my view when I find I am only able to rate the book a four-star story.
December 19, 2023
The power of persuasion
I’ve often wondered just how on this green earth people merely followed Hitler in his diabolical destruction of various groups of people. Not toward the end of his power trip, but rather at the beginning of his rise to power. I know that ‘…the sickness of a defeated Germany, in the aftermath of the Great War’ was a major factor, but come on… there’s gotta be more to it than that.
Well, you’ve certainly come to the right place for some answers. Or at least the author’s gander into the sick mind of the despot and his personal Dr. Frankenstein.
Wyvern’s sleuthing saga continues in ‘Man Number Seven’ (expected in 2024).
I’ve often wondered just how on this green earth people merely followed Hitler in his diabolical destruction of various groups of people. Not toward the end of his power trip, but rather at the beginning of his rise to power. I know that ‘…the sickness of a defeated Germany, in the aftermath of the Great War’ was a major factor, but come on… there’s gotta be more to it than that.
Well, you’ve certainly come to the right place for some answers. Or at least the author’s gander into the sick mind of the despot and his personal Dr. Frankenstein.
Wyvern’s sleuthing saga continues in ‘Man Number Seven’ (expected in 2024).
January 30, 2024
Politics, war, magic achieved thru science, espionage, philosophy, betrayal, mental illness, homosexual romance, ancient gods and civilizations, murder and torture.... this book has a bit of almost everything.
You'll find a complex weave of characters and events with heavy leanings on philosophy. Although highly intelligent, the philosophical portions weren't much to my personal taste, but there is enough action to balance it out.
The story takes place during the nazi reign of terror and Hitler is a part of it, but it's not so much the central focus. It's more about a man's quest to become a God and those who would stop him.
You'll find a complex weave of characters and events with heavy leanings on philosophy. Although highly intelligent, the philosophical portions weren't much to my personal taste, but there is enough action to balance it out.
The story takes place during the nazi reign of terror and Hitler is a part of it, but it's not so much the central focus. It's more about a man's quest to become a God and those who would stop him.
November 14, 2023
Some Good, Some Bad
The book was great of the story, yet some things made the ideas didn’t make sense me. The idea that religion would be the basis for an Odin the God for the Alchemist. None of the religious ideas can inspire the book.
The book was great of the story, yet some things made the ideas didn’t make sense me. The idea that religion would be the basis for an Odin the God for the Alchemist. None of the religious ideas can inspire the book.
January 20, 2025
Quality. Two books in one, what happened in Munich in 1936, and then James as a soldier in the wartime SAS hunting down the man who killed Clarissa. Mixture of fact and fiction, brilliantly executed. Proper historical thriller.
October 19, 2023
The basic premise of the story is far-fetched but the characters are worth the reading.
October 19, 2023
Another brilliant read by Gomery Kimber. Very well written. Loved this!
January 13, 2025
Well worth the read
January 1, 2026
Sorcery
A complicated story about Hitler, war, ancient religions, and egos that had many twists. The characters were complex, which made them interesting.
A complicated story about Hitler, war, ancient religions, and egos that had many twists. The characters were complex, which made them interesting.
November 16, 2023
The second novel in the Wyvern series, 'Man Number Seven,' will be published by Procursus Press in 2024. Read a self-contained short story from the novel here: https://storyoriginapp.com/giveaways/...
December 16, 2022
‘Set during World War Two...the period detail in this novel is exemplary, the characters well-drawn, the plot fast moving and entertaining. Not content, however, with merely telling a story, Kimber successfully elevates his text into a novel of ideas by taking a leaf from the late philosopher-novelist Colin Wilson (to whom the book is dedicated). Read...enjoy...ponder...you cannot fail to be impressed!’
— Colin Stanley, Amazon review. Colin Stanley is Colin Wilson’s bibliographer.
— Colin Stanley, Amazon review. Colin Stanley is Colin Wilson’s bibliographer.
February 2, 2022
It's a race to a Greek island to find Hitler's svengali. Strong characterisation and plotlines expertly weaved together. It feels like you are in the 1940s in the heat of WW2. Good read - especially if you enjoy war/spy thrillers
Displaying 1 - 16 of 16 reviews