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Amethysts & Alchemy #1
Amethysts & Alchemy
I used to eat rocks as a child.
The family doctor diagnosed me with pica, dooming me to years of intensive therapy and extensive dentistry work. It wouldn’t be until much later that I would understand the all-consuming, insatiable craving that spurred me to eat a variety of rocks and minerals wasn’t a mental disorder, but an innate gift that allows me to extract the magic contained inside them: tourmaline for speed, celestite for strength, augite for a powerful laxative effect (that I had to discover the hard way).
Twenty years later, I’ve hidden my abilities beneath a white lab coat, working as a small-town pharmacist who creates proprietary “naturopathic” tonics that treat everything from memory loss to erectile dysfunction. Those tonics, in turn, fund my expensive lifestyle of solo flying around the world to search for more rocks. What more could an airplane-loving, mineral-munching, magical alchemist want?
Unfortunately, my arch nemesis, Heath Spencer, has recently taken it upon himself to single-handedly ruin my life. No longer content with annoying me from afar with his overpriced, tacky rock shop, Heath has decided to further antagonize me by dangling the opportunity of a lifetime right in front of my face: traveling to an ancient copper mine in China, which is home to some of the rarest and most stunning minerals on Earth.
It’s not until after I’m trapped halfway across the world with my least favorite person on the planet that I’m forced to come face-to-face with three terrible realizations: everything I thought I knew about Heath Spencer is wrong, some minerals were never meant to be ingested, and – worst of all – I’m not the only one who’s been keeping secrets...
The family doctor diagnosed me with pica, dooming me to years of intensive therapy and extensive dentistry work. It wouldn’t be until much later that I would understand the all-consuming, insatiable craving that spurred me to eat a variety of rocks and minerals wasn’t a mental disorder, but an innate gift that allows me to extract the magic contained inside them: tourmaline for speed, celestite for strength, augite for a powerful laxative effect (that I had to discover the hard way).
Twenty years later, I’ve hidden my abilities beneath a white lab coat, working as a small-town pharmacist who creates proprietary “naturopathic” tonics that treat everything from memory loss to erectile dysfunction. Those tonics, in turn, fund my expensive lifestyle of solo flying around the world to search for more rocks. What more could an airplane-loving, mineral-munching, magical alchemist want?
Unfortunately, my arch nemesis, Heath Spencer, has recently taken it upon himself to single-handedly ruin my life. No longer content with annoying me from afar with his overpriced, tacky rock shop, Heath has decided to further antagonize me by dangling the opportunity of a lifetime right in front of my face: traveling to an ancient copper mine in China, which is home to some of the rarest and most stunning minerals on Earth.
It’s not until after I’m trapped halfway across the world with my least favorite person on the planet that I’m forced to come face-to-face with three terrible realizations: everything I thought I knew about Heath Spencer is wrong, some minerals were never meant to be ingested, and – worst of all – I’m not the only one who’s been keeping secrets...
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First published July 30, 2024
424 people are currently reading
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About the author
Rachel Rener
23 books764 followersRachel Rener is a multi-award-winning, bestselling romantasy author best known for her fan-favorite Gilded Blood universe. Her books blend magic with real science, infusing powerful-yet-quirky heroines, emotional depth, and irresistible, sizzling romance.
After earning a degree in Psych and Neuroscience, Rachel has since lived on three continents and traveled to nearly 50 countries, fueling her worldbuilding with diverse cultural and mythological influences.
When she's not writing, Rachel enjoys making art in every medium she can get her hands on, riding her motorcycle, attending rock shows (both the musical and mineralogical kind), and engaging with her devoted reader community, Rachel’s Renergades. She lives in Colorado with her husband and a very opinionated umbrella cockatoo named Terrance (aka “Jungle Chicken”), who insists on being her loudest critic.
Learn more at www.RachelRener.com!
You can also be regaled with totally inappropriate stories and behind the scenes shenanigans by signing up for her newsletter: https://tinyurl.com/Rachel-Rener-NL .
@AuthorRachelRener across all socials
After earning a degree in Psych and Neuroscience, Rachel has since lived on three continents and traveled to nearly 50 countries, fueling her worldbuilding with diverse cultural and mythological influences.
When she's not writing, Rachel enjoys making art in every medium she can get her hands on, riding her motorcycle, attending rock shows (both the musical and mineralogical kind), and engaging with her devoted reader community, Rachel’s Renergades. She lives in Colorado with her husband and a very opinionated umbrella cockatoo named Terrance (aka “Jungle Chicken”), who insists on being her loudest critic.
Learn more at www.RachelRener.com!
You can also be regaled with totally inappropriate stories and behind the scenes shenanigans by signing up for her newsletter: https://tinyurl.com/Rachel-Rener-NL .
@AuthorRachelRener across all socials
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 194 reviews
June 27, 2024
Oh, wow - that was so great! I couldn’t put it down! (almost literally - I think I finished it around 4 am😂)
Amethysts & Alchemy is a hilarious new rivals to lovers story from the brilliant brain of Rachel Rener.
I loved prickly, difficult Delaney from the beginning and I especially enjoyed learning about her abilities, the properties of minerals, and all the random facts sprinkled throughout the book. And Heath is a wonderfully swoony MMC. But, of course, my favorite is Topie, the emotional support pig (who I imagine will be the runaway favorite of everyone reading the book.) He’s the absolute best!
Delaney Stone was diagnosed with Pica as a child - the uncontrollable need to eat non-food items, often stones. But it’s different for Delaney because when she tastes rocks and minerals, she can identify and use the inherent magic they possess and distill it into “potions” that others can use. In her quest to catalog all the minerals in the world, she reluctantly teams up with Heath Spencer, the gorgeous, but untrustworthy owner of the touristy “rock shop” nearby. They go to China in a non-sanctioned search for new minerals.
So-
* unique magic
* sweet and spicy romance
* Excellent science talk!
* funny footnotes
* neurodivergent main character ❤️
*TOPIE! 🐷 ❤️❤️❤️ and his piggy plushie
Amethysts & Alchemy is a hilarious new rivals to lovers story from the brilliant brain of Rachel Rener.
I loved prickly, difficult Delaney from the beginning and I especially enjoyed learning about her abilities, the properties of minerals, and all the random facts sprinkled throughout the book. And Heath is a wonderfully swoony MMC. But, of course, my favorite is Topie, the emotional support pig (who I imagine will be the runaway favorite of everyone reading the book.) He’s the absolute best!
Delaney Stone was diagnosed with Pica as a child - the uncontrollable need to eat non-food items, often stones. But it’s different for Delaney because when she tastes rocks and minerals, she can identify and use the inherent magic they possess and distill it into “potions” that others can use. In her quest to catalog all the minerals in the world, she reluctantly teams up with Heath Spencer, the gorgeous, but untrustworthy owner of the touristy “rock shop” nearby. They go to China in a non-sanctioned search for new minerals.
So-
* unique magic
* sweet and spicy romance
* Excellent science talk!
* funny footnotes
* neurodivergent main character ❤️
*TOPIE! 🐷 ❤️❤️❤️ and his piggy plushie
February 11, 2025
Lara Croft meets Sheldon copper
June 30, 2024
Have you ever had to make yourself “smaller” in an attempt to fit into a world that doesn’t seem as if it was made for you? Have you ever had to hide who you are and what interests you for fear of judgment?
Come meet Delaney, our neurodivergent pharmacist/mineralogist FMC. Originally diagnosed with Pica as a child, she learned later that the rocks and minerals she was so intent on ingesting actually gave her powers based on their properties. She’s now focused on creating potions to help others and finding ways to sample every mineral in the world, so when her arch-nemesis Heath dangles a Chinese visa and trip to a mine for an unknown mineral in front of her, Delaney, and her emotional support pig Topie, are off on a jet-setting adventure.
As a very literal person, I related so hard to Delaney. “Hit me.” […] “Open or closed fist?”
She’s spikey and prickly but also caring - in her own way. And her growth throughout this novel, going from someone who had preconceived notions about the enemy (and how we shouldn’t admire their 🍆s) to someone with very profound insights to what friendship is, was what kept me turning the pages. Of course, the enemies-to-lovers sweet and spicy scenes didn’t hurt. 😉
Come meet Delaney, our neurodivergent pharmacist/mineralogist FMC. Originally diagnosed with Pica as a child, she learned later that the rocks and minerals she was so intent on ingesting actually gave her powers based on their properties. She’s now focused on creating potions to help others and finding ways to sample every mineral in the world, so when her arch-nemesis Heath dangles a Chinese visa and trip to a mine for an unknown mineral in front of her, Delaney, and her emotional support pig Topie, are off on a jet-setting adventure.
As a very literal person, I related so hard to Delaney. “Hit me.” […] “Open or closed fist?”
She’s spikey and prickly but also caring - in her own way. And her growth throughout this novel, going from someone who had preconceived notions about the enemy (and how we shouldn’t admire their 🍆s) to someone with very profound insights to what friendship is, was what kept me turning the pages. Of course, the enemies-to-lovers sweet and spicy scenes didn’t hurt. 😉
June 28, 2024
Historical, Diverse, Magical Realism, Urban, Romantic
Exactly Forty-Two Stars
I am extremely honored to have been chosen as an ARC reviewer of this AMAZING book. I hope my review does it justice and EVERYONE pre-orders their copy. This heart-touching, adventure filled, and humorous novel is now ranked in my top 3 favorite novels and my top 2 in fantasy novels.
I was hooked from the dedication and by chapter 3 I was already convinced that I had to have a hardcopy of this book for my trophy shelf.
To say I loved this book is an understatement. There were several times I had to message Rachel and tell her how much I loved Delaney. And Topie (who I suspect will be a show stealer for most). And everything she captured in her newest novel. I've never related to a character more than Delaney Stone. When I read, I do enjoy all the different types of characters - I laugh, cry, hope, and cover my eyes in embarrassment like the rest of you... but Delaney - I LIVED through Delaney.
I consider myself a "modest highlighter" i.e one who highlights a few things in a novel that I find funny, moving, or relatable. However, in A&A, I think I highlighted nearly the whole book. I appreciated the footnotes, the bits of nonfiction thrown in with story, the nuances and quirks of Delaney's character, her growth arc, and the fact that Rachel wrote this book for me (or at least it feels this way). I mean the FMC and MMC are a Rat and Dragon. Guess who else is a Rat and a Dragon? My husband and me.
If you tell me to summarize this book, I might do an okay job at it. But I'm more about how a book makes me feel, and wow, this book made me feel everything.
Thank you Rachel for introducing me to Delaney and Topie. I don't feel so weird or annoying anymore
"In other words, you should love the whole house - even the noisy crow sitting on the roof"
Exactly Forty-Two Stars
I am extremely honored to have been chosen as an ARC reviewer of this AMAZING book. I hope my review does it justice and EVERYONE pre-orders their copy. This heart-touching, adventure filled, and humorous novel is now ranked in my top 3 favorite novels and my top 2 in fantasy novels.
I was hooked from the dedication and by chapter 3 I was already convinced that I had to have a hardcopy of this book for my trophy shelf.
To say I loved this book is an understatement. There were several times I had to message Rachel and tell her how much I loved Delaney. And Topie (who I suspect will be a show stealer for most). And everything she captured in her newest novel. I've never related to a character more than Delaney Stone. When I read, I do enjoy all the different types of characters - I laugh, cry, hope, and cover my eyes in embarrassment like the rest of you... but Delaney - I LIVED through Delaney.
I consider myself a "modest highlighter" i.e one who highlights a few things in a novel that I find funny, moving, or relatable. However, in A&A, I think I highlighted nearly the whole book. I appreciated the footnotes, the bits of nonfiction thrown in with story, the nuances and quirks of Delaney's character, her growth arc, and the fact that Rachel wrote this book for me (or at least it feels this way). I mean the FMC and MMC are a Rat and Dragon. Guess who else is a Rat and a Dragon? My husband and me.
If you tell me to summarize this book, I might do an okay job at it. But I'm more about how a book makes me feel, and wow, this book made me feel everything.
Thank you Rachel for introducing me to Delaney and Topie. I don't feel so weird or annoying anymore
"In other words, you should love the whole house - even the noisy crow sitting on the roof"
August 6, 2024
This was another amazing book by Rachel Rener. I will admit, it was very, very hard to get through the beginning. The FMC has autism and because of that is a very unlikeable character. At least in the bigging. She is super nasty to people because she assumes they will me mean to her since others had been mean to her in the past. It took me multiple days to get through the beginning because I would have to remind myself that she has autism and this is how her brain works, but I was still so upset at the way she was treating people. At lease later she realizes why she is acting the way she is. That being said, don't let the beginning stop you from reading this book! It gets really good! She set this up to possibly have more books in the future, I would pick them up in a heartbeat.
October 28, 2024
I loved the neurodiverse rep. The magic system was cool. Topie, the emotional support pig stole the show. Some of her trademark humor was present.
I had problems with the way the Chinese as individuals and as a nation were portrayed. Very stereotypical and little to no nuances. This limited my enjoyment.
I had problems with the way the Chinese as individuals and as a nation were portrayed. Very stereotypical and little to no nuances. This limited my enjoyment.
July 31, 2024
Wow, what a great book. I read this in just over 4 hours, and was completely enthralled.
Delany is a different main character - quirky, blunt, insecure, extremely smart but also naïve in way, has a history of being treated badly but she wants to help people (I’m not sure if she realizes that) and also seems to suffer from a form of pica. Although there were times when I wanted to tell her to stop talking!
Topaz or Topie her emotional support pig is adorable; thanks to Delany’s potions he is extremely smart and very capable of helping her.
Heath is the type of man Delany doesn’t like – good looking, suave, gets along with everyone and keeps “bugging” her.
But when they go to China to check out a mine, things get really interesting.
This book has adventure, great characters and interactions, a very interesting story line that will definitely lead to some more great books (I hope soon)
Rachel Rener has become one of my favourite authors and I highly recommend this book.
Delany is a different main character - quirky, blunt, insecure, extremely smart but also naïve in way, has a history of being treated badly but she wants to help people (I’m not sure if she realizes that) and also seems to suffer from a form of pica. Although there were times when I wanted to tell her to stop talking!
Topaz or Topie her emotional support pig is adorable; thanks to Delany’s potions he is extremely smart and very capable of helping her.
Heath is the type of man Delany doesn’t like – good looking, suave, gets along with everyone and keeps “bugging” her.
But when they go to China to check out a mine, things get really interesting.
This book has adventure, great characters and interactions, a very interesting story line that will definitely lead to some more great books (I hope soon)
Rachel Rener has become one of my favourite authors and I highly recommend this book.
August 6, 2024
I sped through this book faster than anything I've read this year. Another great read from Rachel Rener, A&A has a neurodivergent main character who I really enjoyed, a fascinating science-based magic system, plus a rivals-to-lovers romance.
Delaney consumes minerals (which resulted her getting diagnosed with pica as a child for eating rocks and ruining her teeth), but as an adult she's turned that into a superpower- she travels the world finding untouched minerals- each gives her a different "magic" power, such as making her super strong, or healing lungs, etc.
Add in a handsome owner of a mystical rock shop across the street, some very heartwarming friendships and trials for Delaney, and an emotional support pig, and you get a fantastic fantasy read. Bonus points for the ND rep, which I really connected with.
Delaney consumes minerals (which resulted her getting diagnosed with pica as a child for eating rocks and ruining her teeth), but as an adult she's turned that into a superpower- she travels the world finding untouched minerals- each gives her a different "magic" power, such as making her super strong, or healing lungs, etc.
Add in a handsome owner of a mystical rock shop across the street, some very heartwarming friendships and trials for Delaney, and an emotional support pig, and you get a fantastic fantasy read. Bonus points for the ND rep, which I really connected with.
July 2, 2024
This book was so different and amazing!! I absolutely adore Delaney, and it was so refreshing to see the inner thoughts of an MC that is so different from most others. The story was magical and scientific and just perfect!! I skipped over some spicy parts, but I know many people prefer those so if that's you, enjoy! Haha This is seriously SUCH a fantastic book! I highlighted so many parts that resonated with or were just hilarious! I'll definitely be reading this again in the future, and I can't wait for future books in this series 🤞🏻
December 30, 2024
pretty Good
New to me author and I really like the story/adventure. Laney being neurodivergent and the author having it as just part of the story along with her emotional support pig 😏😏 was great. The adventure lagged a bit in the middle but for a book with no murder or magical mystery etc, it was a good read.
New to me author and I really like the story/adventure. Laney being neurodivergent and the author having it as just part of the story along with her emotional support pig 😏😏 was great. The adventure lagged a bit in the middle but for a book with no murder or magical mystery etc, it was a good read.
July 5, 2024
Wow! It is difficult for me to explain just how much I have enjoyed reading Amethysts & Alchemy. It was a true delight, especially because of the unique main character Delaney Stone. And Rachel Rener knows a thing or umpteen about writing compelling characters. Every single book I’ve read by her have a female main character. But they’re not the usual hard-boiled and gruff no-nonsense female leads we see so often in fantasy lately (nor are they damsels in distress that need to have a strong partner at her side). No, Rachels characters simply feel very real, with their strengths, but also with their respective weaknes(ses) of which they are usually very aware of. Delaney Stone – the main character in Amethysts & Alchemy might be my favorite character from all the Rener-books, probably my favorite female character in fantasy so far, period.
Delaney (definitely not Laney!) is extremely intelligent and independent, straightforward and honest. Very caring for the few people (and animals) she allows to get close to her. She is a neurodiverse character – or as another character in the book puts it: she is differently wired. And the author shows this in a realistic and very caring way. And Delaney can taste and use the inherent attributes in minerals and distill them into potions that she and other people can use. When one of her clients get really sick, she tries everything in her power to save her. Her best chance are so far unknown (to her) and uncatalogued minerals which might be found in Chinese mines. To get there, Delaney needs to team up with her archnemesis Heath Spencer.
What follows is a wild ride: Insightful, action-packed, unpredictable, sizzling and funny. I truly loved every word of it. But then the author actually already had me with the disclaimer. After that, there was simply no way I wouldn’t enjoy this book. Rachel Rener knows how to write a compelling story, how to entertain, how to make the readers connect with her characters and especially how to be funny. There were just so many great moments in this book! (I tend to highlight either insightful or funny parts in books, and trust me when I say there were a lot of them in here.) And if you want to know how to use footnotes in a novel – which were a beautiful nod to the MC being a scientist – this book might serve as a guidebook. Seriously, it is incredibly well done and the author makes wonderful (but sparing) use of them! This combined with her extraordinary writing skills puts Rachel Rener on the same level as other great writers such as Douglas Adams or Terry Pratchett. Bravo!
You can also tell by the amount of information on minerals and the way it’s presented that the author might have a not-so-small compassion for ‘rocks’ herself.
Oh, while gushing about trivial things like characters and writing, I completely forgot to mention that there is an animal sidekick. A pig! And I believe that for a lot of readers, Topie might steal the show (because let’s be honest: Topie is great).
To sum it up: If you enjoy a story with a few X-Men and strong Indiana Jones-vibes and a wonderful main character, Amethysts & Alchemy is for you. You probably shouldn’t shy away from a little steam, but you don’t need to be a romantasy reader to enjoy this truly fabulous book.
All the stars!
Delaney (definitely not Laney!) is extremely intelligent and independent, straightforward and honest. Very caring for the few people (and animals) she allows to get close to her. She is a neurodiverse character – or as another character in the book puts it: she is differently wired. And the author shows this in a realistic and very caring way. And Delaney can taste and use the inherent attributes in minerals and distill them into potions that she and other people can use. When one of her clients get really sick, she tries everything in her power to save her. Her best chance are so far unknown (to her) and uncatalogued minerals which might be found in Chinese mines. To get there, Delaney needs to team up with her archnemesis Heath Spencer.
What follows is a wild ride: Insightful, action-packed, unpredictable, sizzling and funny. I truly loved every word of it. But then the author actually already had me with the disclaimer. After that, there was simply no way I wouldn’t enjoy this book. Rachel Rener knows how to write a compelling story, how to entertain, how to make the readers connect with her characters and especially how to be funny. There were just so many great moments in this book! (I tend to highlight either insightful or funny parts in books, and trust me when I say there were a lot of them in here.) And if you want to know how to use footnotes in a novel – which were a beautiful nod to the MC being a scientist – this book might serve as a guidebook. Seriously, it is incredibly well done and the author makes wonderful (but sparing) use of them! This combined with her extraordinary writing skills puts Rachel Rener on the same level as other great writers such as Douglas Adams or Terry Pratchett. Bravo!
You can also tell by the amount of information on minerals and the way it’s presented that the author might have a not-so-small compassion for ‘rocks’ herself.
Oh, while gushing about trivial things like characters and writing, I completely forgot to mention that there is an animal sidekick. A pig! And I believe that for a lot of readers, Topie might steal the show (because let’s be honest: Topie is great).
To sum it up: If you enjoy a story with a few X-Men and strong Indiana Jones-vibes and a wonderful main character, Amethysts & Alchemy is for you. You probably shouldn’t shy away from a little steam, but you don’t need to be a romantasy reader to enjoy this truly fabulous book.
All the stars!
July 30, 2024
This book is wonderfully written. It’s about an imperfect person that’s neurodivergent with PICA. You will learn a lot about minerals and what it’s like to be different from everyone else. Most people have awkward moments when they do or say the wrong thing. I’m one of those people. Delaney learns to embrace her differences. She also learns to embrace the differences in others. It’s a great lesson to learn. Oh, and there’s her adorable pig, Topie. I’m not going to lie, there were times when I didn’t like Delaney. But I remembered her backstory and gave her grace. I think we could all use a little grace. Anyway, the science is solid and you can tell Rachel did her research. The footnotes were often funny. I definitely recommend this book.
September 14, 2024
ARC Review
Amethysts & Alchemy by Rachel Rener
- Unique magic system involving Pica (PIE-Kuh) Disorder
- Neurodivergent FMC
- FMC in her late 20s
- Witty Banter 🤣
- Science talk! 🧪🔬
- Pop Culture easter eggs
- Emotional support Pig (who has his own emotional support plushie!) 🐷
- HEA 🥰
- Indiana Jones & Nathan Drake adventure vibes (minus the violence)
- Dabbles in Chinese history and mining ⛏️ 🔦
- Standalone, but non-cliffhanger open ending makes me want more! Maybe if we ask Rachel nicely?
I feel oh so lucky to have been chosen as an ARC reader for this fresh, new story from Rachel Rener. I’ve come to love her humorous, romantic, adventurous, and magical stories. And when she adds in an animal sidekick, I get BEYOND giddy!
Meet our FMC, Delaney! She’s intelligent and caring, albeit guarded. Her Pica disorder (an eating disorder: craving and/or eating non-food items) impacted her childhood and how she evolves as a now 28-year old woman is inspiring.
“Wounds may heal over time, but psychological injuries seldom do.”
Topie, her emotional support pig, steals the show with his HUGE personality. He stole my heart by page 15!❤️ If you pick this book up just because of the cute little pig on the cover, I can tell you now that you’ll enjoy the ride!
Enter our MMC, Heath. He’s unassuming and a bit mysterious. We get to discover who he is along with Delaney and felt like I, too, was at the start of a relationship again. That phase of unknowing and skepticism eventually turning into admiration and respect. His character development was a slow burn and I wouldn’t have wanted it any other way.
It’s insanely difficult for me right now to not shout out all my favorite laughs and moments, but I do not want spoil anything as I find it best to go into Rachel’s stories ready for a good time but without too many plot details. I will tell you it is a lighter-hearted romantic adventure with a small, but mighty, cast of characters and well worth your time.
Get to know Delaney, Heath, and little Topie on July 31st!
P.S.
The author clearly did a lot of research on the subject matter because I was googling fun tidbits left and right and going down my own rabbit holes. I could see the inspiration come to life even in myself. A story that moves AND inspires you is always a gem to find (pun intended! 😂)
Amethysts & Alchemy by Rachel Rener
- Unique magic system involving Pica (PIE-Kuh) Disorder
- Neurodivergent FMC
- FMC in her late 20s
- Witty Banter 🤣
- Science talk! 🧪🔬
- Pop Culture easter eggs
- Emotional support Pig (who has his own emotional support plushie!) 🐷
- HEA 🥰
- Indiana Jones & Nathan Drake adventure vibes (minus the violence)
- Dabbles in Chinese history and mining ⛏️ 🔦
- Standalone, but non-cliffhanger open ending makes me want more! Maybe if we ask Rachel nicely?
I feel oh so lucky to have been chosen as an ARC reader for this fresh, new story from Rachel Rener. I’ve come to love her humorous, romantic, adventurous, and magical stories. And when she adds in an animal sidekick, I get BEYOND giddy!
Meet our FMC, Delaney! She’s intelligent and caring, albeit guarded. Her Pica disorder (an eating disorder: craving and/or eating non-food items) impacted her childhood and how she evolves as a now 28-year old woman is inspiring.
“Wounds may heal over time, but psychological injuries seldom do.”
Topie, her emotional support pig, steals the show with his HUGE personality. He stole my heart by page 15!❤️ If you pick this book up just because of the cute little pig on the cover, I can tell you now that you’ll enjoy the ride!
Enter our MMC, Heath. He’s unassuming and a bit mysterious. We get to discover who he is along with Delaney and felt like I, too, was at the start of a relationship again. That phase of unknowing and skepticism eventually turning into admiration and respect. His character development was a slow burn and I wouldn’t have wanted it any other way.
It’s insanely difficult for me right now to not shout out all my favorite laughs and moments, but I do not want spoil anything as I find it best to go into Rachel’s stories ready for a good time but without too many plot details. I will tell you it is a lighter-hearted romantic adventure with a small, but mighty, cast of characters and well worth your time.
Get to know Delaney, Heath, and little Topie on July 31st!
P.S.
The author clearly did a lot of research on the subject matter because I was googling fun tidbits left and right and going down my own rabbit holes. I could see the inspiration come to life even in myself. A story that moves AND inspires you is always a gem to find (pun intended! 😂)
August 16, 2024
OH MY GOD, WHERE HAS THIS BOOK BEEN ALL MY LIFE!
One of the most spectacular characters I have ever read, prickly, quirky and totally outside most people's boxes I fell in love with Delaney immediately. She literally leaped of the pages and seemed so very real to me. And yes there are definitely some quirks I can relate to big style. If a person could be a spirit animal Delaney is surely mine.
Which brings me to Heath, the object of Delaney's ire, he's a total cinnamon roll, kind, patient funny and gets that Delaney is different but is willing to take the time to crack the rock hard outer shell she has erected to protect herself.
Watching Delaney discover this about him is pure magic to read.
And then there's Topie, what's not to love about an emotional support pig, who has his own emotional support piggy stuffie and his favourite movies are Charlotte's Web and Babe, I totally need a Topie in my life.
This book was a blast from beginning to end and I loved every second of it and I'm desperately hoping there will be more adventures featuring these characters in the future. If you haven't already read this I suggest you run don't walk and grab your copy right now.
One of the most spectacular characters I have ever read, prickly, quirky and totally outside most people's boxes I fell in love with Delaney immediately. She literally leaped of the pages and seemed so very real to me. And yes there are definitely some quirks I can relate to big style. If a person could be a spirit animal Delaney is surely mine.
Which brings me to Heath, the object of Delaney's ire, he's a total cinnamon roll, kind, patient funny and gets that Delaney is different but is willing to take the time to crack the rock hard outer shell she has erected to protect herself.
Watching Delaney discover this about him is pure magic to read.
And then there's Topie, what's not to love about an emotional support pig, who has his own emotional support piggy stuffie and his favourite movies are Charlotte's Web and Babe, I totally need a Topie in my life.
This book was a blast from beginning to end and I loved every second of it and I'm desperately hoping there will be more adventures featuring these characters in the future. If you haven't already read this I suggest you run don't walk and grab your copy right now.
September 22, 2025
An emotional support pig named Topie? Yes, sign me up for an action-packed sci-fi paranormal romance between an intelligent if socially inept pharmacist Delaney and her arch nemesis Heath, the rock gift shop owner across the street.
With her odd quirk for eating rocks to consume their metallurgic properties and the aforementioned Topie who carries around his own emotional support stuffie, Delaney is a walking encyclopedia of insane facts and sweet vulnerability.
Determined to find her next exceptional rock in China, she accepts an offer from Heath that hurtles them into an adventure in the unexplored depths of China’s infamous mines.
Their witty exchanges plus all the tension between them not to mention the adorable Topie running interference makes for a totally captivating story. Can hardly wait for the sequel!
With her odd quirk for eating rocks to consume their metallurgic properties and the aforementioned Topie who carries around his own emotional support stuffie, Delaney is a walking encyclopedia of insane facts and sweet vulnerability.
Determined to find her next exceptional rock in China, she accepts an offer from Heath that hurtles them into an adventure in the unexplored depths of China’s infamous mines.
Their witty exchanges plus all the tension between them not to mention the adorable Topie running interference makes for a totally captivating story. Can hardly wait for the sequel!
August 5, 2025
super witty and cheeky, definitely a fun and entertaining read
August 6, 2024
Funny and entertaining
Funny without "trying too hard." Romantic without being pornographic. Looking forward to this becoming an adventure series. Hope more to come.
Funny without "trying too hard." Romantic without being pornographic. Looking forward to this becoming an adventure series. Hope more to come.
September 17, 2024
This is a delightful romp that blends humor, adventure, and heart with a unique alchemical/magical twist. From the moment I started reading, I knew I was in for a good time. The concept of a protagonist who can extract magic from rocks and minerals is refreshingly original. Add in Delaney, an autistic and deeply relatable character, and I was hooked.
Delaney's story resonated with me right away. She’s logical, practical, and absolutely hilarious (even if she doesn't always mean to be), and I loved seeing how her past experiences, especially the bullying she faced, shaped her into the guarded, rock-munching alchemist we meet. Watching her journey as she lets Heath in (slowly, slowly), even though he's the last person she expected to care for, was heartwarming. As someone who isn’t autistic but has a logical brain, I found her struggles with social interactions and the way she navigated relationships deeply touching. I want to wrap her in my arms (metaphorically because she would hate it) and protect her from the world.
And Heath? He’s an absolute gem (😂). I ADORE the rivals-to-lovers trope - and it soon developed into something much more nuanced. I loved how their relationship unfolded. The chemistry between them was fantastic, and their banter kept me smiling the whole time. I also appreciated how Heath had his own layers and secrets. And obviously, Topie is the best pig ever.
Rener’s knack for mixing action, humor, and emotion shines through in all of her books - but especially this one. The adventure was fast-paced and thrilling, but it was balanced perfectly with laugh-out-loud moments and deeper, more heartfelt themes. It’s one of those books that had me fully immersed, and I just couldn’t put it down.
In short, I had an absolutely FANTASTIC time with this book. It’s lighthearted, adventurous, and full of charm—exactly the kind of read I needed. Highly recommend it if you’re looking for a fun, magical, and heartfelt story with characters you’ll fall in love with.
Delaney's story resonated with me right away. She’s logical, practical, and absolutely hilarious (even if she doesn't always mean to be), and I loved seeing how her past experiences, especially the bullying she faced, shaped her into the guarded, rock-munching alchemist we meet. Watching her journey as she lets Heath in (slowly, slowly), even though he's the last person she expected to care for, was heartwarming. As someone who isn’t autistic but has a logical brain, I found her struggles with social interactions and the way she navigated relationships deeply touching. I want to wrap her in my arms (metaphorically because she would hate it) and protect her from the world.
And Heath? He’s an absolute gem (😂). I ADORE the rivals-to-lovers trope - and it soon developed into something much more nuanced. I loved how their relationship unfolded. The chemistry between them was fantastic, and their banter kept me smiling the whole time. I also appreciated how Heath had his own layers and secrets. And obviously, Topie is the best pig ever.
Rener’s knack for mixing action, humor, and emotion shines through in all of her books - but especially this one. The adventure was fast-paced and thrilling, but it was balanced perfectly with laugh-out-loud moments and deeper, more heartfelt themes. It’s one of those books that had me fully immersed, and I just couldn’t put it down.
In short, I had an absolutely FANTASTIC time with this book. It’s lighthearted, adventurous, and full of charm—exactly the kind of read I needed. Highly recommend it if you’re looking for a fun, magical, and heartfelt story with characters you’ll fall in love with.
July 28, 2024
Ok Rachel Rener, you need to calm down here. This rivals to lovers book was a treat! This was my first Rener book and boy was I NOT disappointed. We’ve got Mineral Magic, an emotional support pig, and a neurodivergent FMC.
I know what you’re thinking, whatcha talkin bout Willis? I too was skeptical about reading a Neurospicy book about stones and minerals, personally never came across anything like it. But I WAS NOT disappointed.
You’ll begin by being introduced to Delaney Stone, FMC who’s a prickly pear, but also intelligent. Her inner dialogue was also something really special to me, I was able to resonate with her so well. As you read you’ll get a better understanding of her. From her eating disorder (Pica - craving/ eating non food items), to what she endured as a child and how it’s affected her relationship with not only how she interacts with people, but most specifically our MMC, Heath.
Heath’s rather mysterious, but you will get to know him along the way, which keeps you turning the pages (talk about a slow burn… hellurrrr). Who wouldn’t want to know more about a hot mysterious, smart man?!
And don’t let me forget about one of my absolute favorite characters here! Topie! Our sassy, sweet emotional support pig. He’s cute, and he’s got it going on. 😎
I will say, if you are looking for a chapter with our MMC’s perspective, this book does not have it. While I would have enjoyed reading a chapter, It did just fine without it. Would definitely recommend this to friends who have interest in any romantasy slow burns, banter and those to like science 🧪.
Overall, there are so many positive things I could say about this book, but in a nutshell, I had fun, Rachel had me hooked, I had GREAT laughs and really enjoyed the character development throughout.
I know what you’re thinking, whatcha talkin bout Willis? I too was skeptical about reading a Neurospicy book about stones and minerals, personally never came across anything like it. But I WAS NOT disappointed.
You’ll begin by being introduced to Delaney Stone, FMC who’s a prickly pear, but also intelligent. Her inner dialogue was also something really special to me, I was able to resonate with her so well. As you read you’ll get a better understanding of her. From her eating disorder (Pica - craving/ eating non food items), to what she endured as a child and how it’s affected her relationship with not only how she interacts with people, but most specifically our MMC, Heath.
Heath’s rather mysterious, but you will get to know him along the way, which keeps you turning the pages (talk about a slow burn… hellurrrr). Who wouldn’t want to know more about a hot mysterious, smart man?!
And don’t let me forget about one of my absolute favorite characters here! Topie! Our sassy, sweet emotional support pig. He’s cute, and he’s got it going on. 😎
I will say, if you are looking for a chapter with our MMC’s perspective, this book does not have it. While I would have enjoyed reading a chapter, It did just fine without it. Would definitely recommend this to friends who have interest in any romantasy slow burns, banter and those to like science 🧪.
Overall, there are so many positive things I could say about this book, but in a nutshell, I had fun, Rachel had me hooked, I had GREAT laughs and really enjoyed the character development throughout.
August 16, 2024
Delaney Stone is so wonderfully written with the typical neuro-divergent way of thinking, black or white with nothing in between. She needs to know all the rules to the point that she has a detailed 42 point list that includes sub-lists whenever she goes into a mine to collect minerals. And she has a compulsive need to read the list out loud. The rules are hers, not always society's rules or laws. The detailed checklist as a pilot is necessary. But when she does it for everything, you can easily see how difficult she finds it trying to deal with neurotypical people. She also can't decipher body language or facial expressions and takes what people say literally.
And as if that isn't enough to make her feel like an outsider, add in that she was bullied mercilessly as a kid. And she eats rocks. Excuse me. MINERALS. She can make custom pharmaceutical elixirs, aka "magic potions".
With her affinity with natural minerals, of course the guy who owns the rock shop across the street is her enemy. He sells pretty rocks that have been polished, cut, dyed, heat treated, and/or irradiated that destroys the natural essence and making them useless to her. I absolutely loved this magic system. Or as Delaney puts it, "parascientific" results for her potions.
Don't worry, you learn all this in the first couple chapters, so no spoilers.
I couldn't put this book down. I finished it in an afternoon. I would love to see more books with Delaney as the main character. I worked with several autistic students and have autistic people in my family, so it was great to see an accurate depiction in such an exciting book. Because as wonderfully written as the characters are, the story is exciting and nailbiting at times as Delaney and the rock shop guy uncover an ancient Chinese mystery.
And for a bit of comic relief, Delaney's emotional support pig who needs his own emotional support toy.
I absolutely cannot recommend this book enough.
And as if that isn't enough to make her feel like an outsider, add in that she was bullied mercilessly as a kid. And she eats rocks. Excuse me. MINERALS. She can make custom pharmaceutical elixirs, aka "magic potions".
With her affinity with natural minerals, of course the guy who owns the rock shop across the street is her enemy. He sells pretty rocks that have been polished, cut, dyed, heat treated, and/or irradiated that destroys the natural essence and making them useless to her. I absolutely loved this magic system. Or as Delaney puts it, "parascientific" results for her potions.
Don't worry, you learn all this in the first couple chapters, so no spoilers.
I couldn't put this book down. I finished it in an afternoon. I would love to see more books with Delaney as the main character. I worked with several autistic students and have autistic people in my family, so it was great to see an accurate depiction in such an exciting book. Because as wonderfully written as the characters are, the story is exciting and nailbiting at times as Delaney and the rock shop guy uncover an ancient Chinese mystery.
And for a bit of comic relief, Delaney's emotional support pig who needs his own emotional support toy.
I absolutely cannot recommend this book enough.
July 17, 2024
Let's be clear up front. This book is not for everyone. This book is written about a main character who is neurospicy (PICA is the diagnosis). There are magical elements, and her mental health is not seen as a hindrance. There are people who will not relate and who will find the main character annoying and the text overly detailed. This book is not for them. This book is for those of us who have had to mask ourselves and hide some of the "annoying" parts when we are around people we don't know or trust. This book is for those of us who will dive head first into a rabbit hole of information and emerge hours (or days) later without realizing how long it has been.
This book is for those of us who use () in text too much because there is always another thought.
Delaney and Heath (and Topie) are some of the best main characters I've read in a long time.
The story itself is nothing like I've read before. It has a unique nuerodivergent aspect that is very relatable to those who struggle with meeting socially acceptable norms. This book took me by complete surprise. It had me laughing and unable to put it down until I knew all the answers.
I found the plot to be unique yet believable, and reading the story from Delaney's point of view was detailed yet fast-paced.
There is some spice, but it isn't as spicy as many spicy books I read. That does not diminish the tension between Heath and Delaney, and it leaves you wanting just a little more if you are used to very spicy content.
I also enjoyed the openness and finality of the ending of the story.
Things I wanted to see more of:
⭐️ Topie and the magic surrounding Delaney and Topie's relationship
⭐️ Heath's point of view (maybe just one chapter) 🤔
You will enjoy this book if you like urban fantasy, slow burn, science and magic, and adventure
This book is for those of us who use () in text too much because there is always another thought.
Delaney and Heath (and Topie) are some of the best main characters I've read in a long time.
The story itself is nothing like I've read before. It has a unique nuerodivergent aspect that is very relatable to those who struggle with meeting socially acceptable norms. This book took me by complete surprise. It had me laughing and unable to put it down until I knew all the answers.
I found the plot to be unique yet believable, and reading the story from Delaney's point of view was detailed yet fast-paced.
There is some spice, but it isn't as spicy as many spicy books I read. That does not diminish the tension between Heath and Delaney, and it leaves you wanting just a little more if you are used to very spicy content.
I also enjoyed the openness and finality of the ending of the story.
Things I wanted to see more of:
⭐️ Topie and the magic surrounding Delaney and Topie's relationship
⭐️ Heath's point of view (maybe just one chapter) 🤔
You will enjoy this book if you like urban fantasy, slow burn, science and magic, and adventure
July 30, 2024
This book deserves all of the stars because it was flipping phenomenal!
This is a rivals to lovers fantasy romance that will have you hooked from the very first page!
I have never related to a main character more in my entire life and I am so happy right now. It's all of the little details that made Delaney shine and made me feel represented. This was also such a truly unique magic system.
This is a fantasy romance novel, but it does feel a bit more like a contemporary romance where the FMC has something magical about her. I loved the tension and the chemistry between these characters, and there were just so many moments where I was laughing out loud.
Delaney is a pharmacist, but she also has a secret. She was diagnosed with pica when she was little because she couldn't stop eating rocks. She was always told she was weird and not normal and lived her life feeling like she was on the outside of everyone else. On top of her Pica diagnosis, she is also autistic. When she gets older she finds out that the reason she has always been drawn to eating rocks is because of the minerals and the way that her body has magical reactions to different minerals. The fact that the author included Delaney's log of what minerals do what in the back was such a nice and special touch that I absolutely adored.
Please read this book. This book was sop emotionally healing for me and I loved every single second of it.
Oh, and did I mention that she has an emotional support pig and his name is Topaz (Topie for short) and he is just magical and wonderful and amazing
This is a rivals to lovers fantasy romance that will have you hooked from the very first page!
I have never related to a main character more in my entire life and I am so happy right now. It's all of the little details that made Delaney shine and made me feel represented. This was also such a truly unique magic system.
This is a fantasy romance novel, but it does feel a bit more like a contemporary romance where the FMC has something magical about her. I loved the tension and the chemistry between these characters, and there were just so many moments where I was laughing out loud.
Delaney is a pharmacist, but she also has a secret. She was diagnosed with pica when she was little because she couldn't stop eating rocks. She was always told she was weird and not normal and lived her life feeling like she was on the outside of everyone else. On top of her Pica diagnosis, she is also autistic. When she gets older she finds out that the reason she has always been drawn to eating rocks is because of the minerals and the way that her body has magical reactions to different minerals. The fact that the author included Delaney's log of what minerals do what in the back was such a nice and special touch that I absolutely adored.
Please read this book. This book was sop emotionally healing for me and I loved every single second of it.
Oh, and did I mention that she has an emotional support pig and his name is Topaz (Topie for short) and he is just magical and wonderful and amazing
August 18, 2024
Okay, I'm going to try to do this without any spoilers.
tl;dr: Rachel did it again
Delaney Stone is a character with...
Quirks.
That's a nice way of putting it. She's had a lifetime to build up defenses against the people out to get her - people who don't take time to understand her, i.e. everyone - and approaches the world with great care. She has routines she leans on to interact with the rest of humanity when she's forced to, which perform admirably.
Oh, and she has an emotional support pig, Topie, who's probably smarter than most people.
Did I mention she eats minerals?
Anyway, Rachel has taken this character and thrown her off the deep end in the pursuit of an unknown mineral, which forces her to accept the aid of her archnemesis, Heath Spencer, who runs the tacky gift shop across the street.
Okay, I really can't say much more here. Why? Because spoilers, and I won't do that. Nope.
This was a fun read. It is a fast read - it takes place mostly over a single weekend of dire adventures overseas, which make s it feel a bit compressed. But with so many rivals/enemies-to-lovers stories, it's dragged out over weeks/months, the accelerated timetable is refreshing. To put it in chemistry terms: Delaney's a supersaturated solution, and Heath is the seed crystal that causes her to suddenly recrystallize.
If you want a fun, standalone RtL romance with a seriously spicy scene and a slightly open-ended HEA, pick this up!
tl;dr: Rachel did it again
Delaney Stone is a character with...
Quirks.
That's a nice way of putting it. She's had a lifetime to build up defenses against the people out to get her - people who don't take time to understand her, i.e. everyone - and approaches the world with great care. She has routines she leans on to interact with the rest of humanity when she's forced to, which perform admirably.
Oh, and she has an emotional support pig, Topie, who's probably smarter than most people.
Did I mention she eats minerals?
Anyway, Rachel has taken this character and thrown her off the deep end in the pursuit of an unknown mineral, which forces her to accept the aid of her archnemesis, Heath Spencer, who runs the tacky gift shop across the street.
Okay, I really can't say much more here. Why? Because spoilers, and I won't do that. Nope.
This was a fun read. It is a fast read - it takes place mostly over a single weekend of dire adventures overseas, which make s it feel a bit compressed. But with so many rivals/enemies-to-lovers stories, it's dragged out over weeks/months, the accelerated timetable is refreshing. To put it in chemistry terms: Delaney's a supersaturated solution, and Heath is the seed crystal that causes her to suddenly recrystallize.
If you want a fun, standalone RtL romance with a seriously spicy scene and a slightly open-ended HEA, pick this up!
August 2, 2024
Making her home in Portland, Maine, Delany Stone, is a 28-year-old naturopathic pharmacist that creates her tinctures and homeopathic remedies using a very special gift--She can extract the healing properties from any gemstone she CHEWS! She travels the country with her emotional support 10-year-old spotted Juliana pig, Topie mining the stones needed for her special remedies.
Delany is a loner, and she likes it that way, because people, in general, just make her uncomfortable. Heath Spencer, the owner of the local rock shop, is one of those people and she has a strong dislike for him. Unfortunately for her, he has a strong like for her and “gets,” her neurodivergent personality.
The story is original, fresh, and well written. The author has a special gift of her own as she weaves into the relationship between Delany and Heath, just the right amount of sarcasm, quick wit, and humor resulting in some hysterical interactions between the two. It is so obvious that she likes him, and he adores her! It’s a slow burning romance, with just the right amount of romantic comedy between two people that have more in common than they realize. Oh, and Topie, is a scene stealer and absolutely adorable in his little tool vest!
I thoroughly enjoyed and highly recommend this book.
Delany is a loner, and she likes it that way, because people, in general, just make her uncomfortable. Heath Spencer, the owner of the local rock shop, is one of those people and she has a strong dislike for him. Unfortunately for her, he has a strong like for her and “gets,” her neurodivergent personality.
The story is original, fresh, and well written. The author has a special gift of her own as she weaves into the relationship between Delany and Heath, just the right amount of sarcasm, quick wit, and humor resulting in some hysterical interactions between the two. It is so obvious that she likes him, and he adores her! It’s a slow burning romance, with just the right amount of romantic comedy between two people that have more in common than they realize. Oh, and Topie, is a scene stealer and absolutely adorable in his little tool vest!
I thoroughly enjoyed and highly recommend this book.
July 28, 2024
Amethysts & Alchemy by Rachel Rener is a refreshing twist on the classic rivals-to-lovers trope, set in a modern-day world where magic and alchemy blend seamlessly with everyday life. The story introduces us to Delaney, a quirky pharmacist with a unique condition that compels her to "eat rocks," from which she derives magical abilities. This novel stands out not only for its enchanting premise but also for its deeply relatable neurospicy main character.
Delaney, the main character, is a pharmacist who can harness magical abilities by consuming crystals like amethyst and morganite. Her special talent also includes creating potions that heal others, a craft she excels at despite her social challenges. Her life takes a twist when her only friend passes away, leaving the rival crystal shop down the street to Heath, a new and mysterious figure. Heath appears to be the polar opposite of everything Delaney values, but as their paths inevitably cross, sparks fly, revealing more than just rivalry.
Rener's writing is engaging and fluid, making Amethysts & Alchemy a compelling read from the start. The book's pacing is excellent, with a perfect blend of adventure, twists, and romantic tension. The magical system based on crystals is innovative and adds a fresh dimension to the fantasy genre, making it both intriguing and educational. The inclusion of neurospicy traits in Delaney's character is handled with sensitivity and authenticity, making her both unique and relatable.
As someone who discovered my own neurospiciness later in life, I found Delaney's character profoundly resonant. Her quirks, challenges, and strengths are depicted with a rare honesty that makes her journey both touching and inspiring. I also appreciated the novel's rich vocabulary and the joy of encountering new words, which added depth to the reading experience. The incorporation of crystals and their properties not only appealed to my love of them but also provided an engaging and unique magic system that felt fresh and original.
Amethysts & Alchemy is a delightful read for anyone looking for a story that combines a fresh take on magic with an engaging rivals-to-lovers romance. Rachel Rener has created a world that is as enchanting as it is relatable, with characters that leap off the page and into your heart. Whether you're a longtime fan of Rener's work or new to her novels, this book promises a unique and enjoyable experience. It's a must-read for those who enjoy strong character development, adventure, and a touch of the magical. ★★★★★
If you're in the mood for a novel that will make you laugh, cry, and cheer for its characters, Amethysts & Alchemy is the perfect choice. Join Delaney, Tophie, and Heath on a journey filled with magic, discovery, and heart.
Delaney, the main character, is a pharmacist who can harness magical abilities by consuming crystals like amethyst and morganite. Her special talent also includes creating potions that heal others, a craft she excels at despite her social challenges. Her life takes a twist when her only friend passes away, leaving the rival crystal shop down the street to Heath, a new and mysterious figure. Heath appears to be the polar opposite of everything Delaney values, but as their paths inevitably cross, sparks fly, revealing more than just rivalry.
Rener's writing is engaging and fluid, making Amethysts & Alchemy a compelling read from the start. The book's pacing is excellent, with a perfect blend of adventure, twists, and romantic tension. The magical system based on crystals is innovative and adds a fresh dimension to the fantasy genre, making it both intriguing and educational. The inclusion of neurospicy traits in Delaney's character is handled with sensitivity and authenticity, making her both unique and relatable.
As someone who discovered my own neurospiciness later in life, I found Delaney's character profoundly resonant. Her quirks, challenges, and strengths are depicted with a rare honesty that makes her journey both touching and inspiring. I also appreciated the novel's rich vocabulary and the joy of encountering new words, which added depth to the reading experience. The incorporation of crystals and their properties not only appealed to my love of them but also provided an engaging and unique magic system that felt fresh and original.
Amethysts & Alchemy is a delightful read for anyone looking for a story that combines a fresh take on magic with an engaging rivals-to-lovers romance. Rachel Rener has created a world that is as enchanting as it is relatable, with characters that leap off the page and into your heart. Whether you're a longtime fan of Rener's work or new to her novels, this book promises a unique and enjoyable experience. It's a must-read for those who enjoy strong character development, adventure, and a touch of the magical. ★★★★★
If you're in the mood for a novel that will make you laugh, cry, and cheer for its characters, Amethysts & Alchemy is the perfect choice. Join Delaney, Tophie, and Heath on a journey filled with magic, discovery, and heart.
July 25, 2024
Yes yes yes!!!! When the fabulous Rachel mentioned the idea for this book I was like 'I am here for it and am waiting -semi- patiently' for its arrival. I was not disappointed when it did.
So overjoyed I got to read the ARC for this book, I may have popped from having to wait much longer.
Delaney Stone is a smart, funny, honest to a fault human bean. She gets overwhelmed by her surroundings but finds her way with help from Topie her loving emotional support pig. I need an emotional support pig!!! As a neurospicy, crystal collecting -but not consuming- bean myself I could relate to so much with this character. Her inner monologue shone so much light, her overanalyzing due to past trauma -been there- and the footnotes written in this book really added to the flavour.
The research and dedication that must have gone into writing this epic adventure shines clear and bright off every facet (see what I did there😆) of the book.
This was such a ride. Funny in one moment, the next I was chewing my nails (not crystals) in a gripped suspenseful ' just one more chapter' mode.
Should I talk about Heath? No I won't. Spoilers.
Recommend this to anyone who loves
Grumpy/ sunshine
Rivals to lovers
Animal sidekicks
Neurospicy representation
So overjoyed I got to read the ARC for this book, I may have popped from having to wait much longer.
Delaney Stone is a smart, funny, honest to a fault human bean. She gets overwhelmed by her surroundings but finds her way with help from Topie her loving emotional support pig. I need an emotional support pig!!! As a neurospicy, crystal collecting -but not consuming- bean myself I could relate to so much with this character. Her inner monologue shone so much light, her overanalyzing due to past trauma -been there- and the footnotes written in this book really added to the flavour.
The research and dedication that must have gone into writing this epic adventure shines clear and bright off every facet (see what I did there😆) of the book.
This was such a ride. Funny in one moment, the next I was chewing my nails (not crystals) in a gripped suspenseful ' just one more chapter' mode.
Should I talk about Heath? No I won't. Spoilers.
Recommend this to anyone who loves
Grumpy/ sunshine
Rivals to lovers
Animal sidekicks
Neurospicy representation
August 2, 2024
You’ve met people like this, but until now, not been inside their brain.
Amethysts & Alchemy
Rachel Rener
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
359 pp
Rachel Rener has a brain that takes readers to unique places and delivers a story that is remarkable in its difference.
Not the romance, that’s pretty much standard fare. What is different … whole-heartedly and embracingly unusual are the main characters, especially Delaney.
Imagine a person who can tell chemical compositions by tasting them and observing their effect on her body, using them to deliver highly effective *para-pharmaceuticals.* Delaney has an obsession with rock collecting of the gem-encrusted sort and travels to mines as a hobby.
She’s also neuro-diverse, travelling with her emotional support pig, Topaz, even into the mines.
I’m not sure what else you might need to know in order for me to convince you to pick up the book, other than Rener is a delightful writer with a wicked sense of humour, and it shows up in face-palming puns. You’ve been warned.
Amethysts & Alchemy
Rachel Rener
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
359 pp
Rachel Rener has a brain that takes readers to unique places and delivers a story that is remarkable in its difference.
Not the romance, that’s pretty much standard fare. What is different … whole-heartedly and embracingly unusual are the main characters, especially Delaney.
Imagine a person who can tell chemical compositions by tasting them and observing their effect on her body, using them to deliver highly effective *para-pharmaceuticals.* Delaney has an obsession with rock collecting of the gem-encrusted sort and travels to mines as a hobby.
She’s also neuro-diverse, travelling with her emotional support pig, Topaz, even into the mines.
I’m not sure what else you might need to know in order for me to convince you to pick up the book, other than Rener is a delightful writer with a wicked sense of humour, and it shows up in face-palming puns. You’ve been warned.
August 27, 2024
I fell head over heels in love with Rachel's writing after I read Inked. She is one of those authors that has well and truly earned her place on my instabuy list and when she announced she was working on Amethysts & Alchemy I was beyond excited: neurodiverse main character, unique magic or rather "parascientific" system based on the supernatural and medicinal properties of minerals, spicy "rivals" to lovers romance, AND an emotional support pig? OMG it is like she was writing this book just for me.
And she did not disappoint. I loved this story perhaps more than I loved Inked, almost as much as I loved The Boy Who Lurks in Shadows. It made me laugh and cry and cringe. Delaney's inner monologue was just so close to home so many times that I related to her perhaps more than I have related to any leading character outside of my own stories. Once again Rachel has captured the essence of her characters in a way that makes them so gloriously human, warts and all.
And she did not disappoint. I loved this story perhaps more than I loved Inked, almost as much as I loved The Boy Who Lurks in Shadows. It made me laugh and cry and cringe. Delaney's inner monologue was just so close to home so many times that I related to her perhaps more than I have related to any leading character outside of my own stories. Once again Rachel has captured the essence of her characters in a way that makes them so gloriously human, warts and all.
July 30, 2024
Another 5 star Book from Rachel Rener!! I love that geology is again being combined with magic for another great adventure! If you thought the science was amazing in her Lighting Conjurer series then you’ll be even more amazed with this one! You even get footnotes and pictures in the back!! Heath is a great book boyfriend too, sexy, smart and patient. 💖 I did have one big draw back to this book, once you get to the last chapter it fast forwards almost like an epilogue ( which I normally love epilogues so much ), but with this one I kept finding reasons not to read it. Normally I just devour the next page but I couldn’t bring myself to finish the last page because I knew it would be over and I didn’t want it to be! 😭 I really hope we get more adventures with Heath, Delaney and Topie ( also I’ve never wanted a pig before in my life, but I would 💯 take Topie) in the very near future!!! 💖💚
August 5, 2024
Absolutely A Must Read!!!!!!!!
I absolutely love Rachel Rener’s work. Her work always grabs me and pulls me in from the very beginning. This one is no different. She develops worlds of magic and mysteries combined that has you believing that all of is completely real no matter what you know that some of really isn’t. The amount of research that went into this story is extremely evident. From the different classifications of minerals and the mines that are active is outstanding. I absolutely loved Delaney and her quirky ways. Then we have her emotional support pig, Topie. That little guy is amazing and his little quirks will have you laughing out loud. The interactions and chemistry between Delaney and Heath are amazing. The uniqueness of Delaney stands out and shines throughout the story. I was unable to put the story down once I picked it up. It is so good. I absolutely loved how it ends and was wishing for more. Absolutely a must read.
I absolutely love Rachel Rener’s work. Her work always grabs me and pulls me in from the very beginning. This one is no different. She develops worlds of magic and mysteries combined that has you believing that all of is completely real no matter what you know that some of really isn’t. The amount of research that went into this story is extremely evident. From the different classifications of minerals and the mines that are active is outstanding. I absolutely loved Delaney and her quirky ways. Then we have her emotional support pig, Topie. That little guy is amazing and his little quirks will have you laughing out loud. The interactions and chemistry between Delaney and Heath are amazing. The uniqueness of Delaney stands out and shines throughout the story. I was unable to put the story down once I picked it up. It is so good. I absolutely loved how it ends and was wishing for more. Absolutely a must read.
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