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High Magic in the Age of Steam: A Steampunk's Introduction to Victorian Esotericism
207 pages, Paperback
Published August 13, 2024
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Displaying 1 - 3 of 3 reviews
July 5, 2024
Thank you to NetGalley, the publisher, and the author for the early copy in exchange for an honest review.
I have doubts about the intended audience for this book. The back cover blurb suggests it's a guide to Victorian magic, meant to help readers create an authentic "Steamsona" - a character to roleplay or LARP in a steampunk setting. However, I found the information provided to be quite superficial. As an experienced occultist with extensive knowledge of topics like Hermeticism, Futhark Runes, and Spiritualism, I didn't find enough depth here to build a solid foundation in any branch of the occult.
Similarly, if you're looking to this book for guidance on how to write a compelling steampunk character, you'd be better off consulting creative writing resources or roleplaying sourcebooks. The academic, dry tone makes it unsuitable for readers seeking inspiration.
Ultimately, this book fails to serve either aspiring occultists or writers looking to develop an authentic steampunk persona. It tries to cover too much ground without providing sufficient detail in any one area. For more focused and useful information, I'd recommend seeking out resources more directly relevant to your specific interests.
I have doubts about the intended audience for this book. The back cover blurb suggests it's a guide to Victorian magic, meant to help readers create an authentic "Steamsona" - a character to roleplay or LARP in a steampunk setting. However, I found the information provided to be quite superficial. As an experienced occultist with extensive knowledge of topics like Hermeticism, Futhark Runes, and Spiritualism, I didn't find enough depth here to build a solid foundation in any branch of the occult.
Similarly, if you're looking to this book for guidance on how to write a compelling steampunk character, you'd be better off consulting creative writing resources or roleplaying sourcebooks. The academic, dry tone makes it unsuitable for readers seeking inspiration.
Ultimately, this book fails to serve either aspiring occultists or writers looking to develop an authentic steampunk persona. It tries to cover too much ground without providing sufficient detail in any one area. For more focused and useful information, I'd recommend seeking out resources more directly relevant to your specific interests.
August 13, 2024
I love history and I love learning this title called to me purely on the steampunk description. Not that I am fond of it or into it, but it was a departure from my normal reading and it provided a lot of great new perspective. What a fun and interesting read!
July 5, 2026
A good and quick little guide to infusing occultism into steampunk.
Displaying 1 - 3 of 3 reviews