The Alchemist's Dilemma: A series of urban fantasy books

by Jef Curlin

The Alchemist's Dilemma is a must-read for urban fantasy fans who appreciate sophisticated world-building and complex character development, and I'd definitely recommend it. —K. Finn, Reader’s Favorite

Every battle in The Alchemist's Dilemma is exciting and expertly written, pivoting on high stakes for Earth’s survival. —K. Bowe, Reader’s Favorite

This novel was such a good read and, even though this is the second book in the series, I found it so easy to follow along. This is definitely a book I would recommend. —M. Arendse, Reader’s Favorite


The decision to use godlike power should never be made lightly.

The Alchemist, Finn Graye, is attempting to live a quiet life. But when offered the chance to avenge the deaths of his wife and parents, he can’t say “no.”

Too soon, Finn goes from hunter to hunted. Worse, the destruction of his cane, his greatest creation, leaves him feeling useless.

However, new hope is found in a powerful object that seems to have chosen Finn as its wielder.

Can Finn wield this new power to save the day, or will he become the true threat to the safety of our world?

In the second book of the Alchemist Chronology, follow Finn as he races against time to stop an evil plot. Action, adventure, and shocking secrets await the reader in this urban fantasy thrill ride.

Genres: Urban Fantasy

531 pages, Kindle Edition

Published December 16, 2024

About the author

Jef writes urban fantasy with heart, humor, and a touch of mental alchemy. A late bloomer in the writing world, he never believed he could write a book—until he did. Twice. And counting.

Jef is the author of The Alchemist's Journey and The Alchemist's Dilemma, the first two entries in the Alchemist Chronology series, available on Amazon. When not conjuring magical mayhem on the page, he puts his Bachelor’s in Food Science to good use experimenting in the kitchen (results may vary).

Fun fact: back in junior high, Jef sang baritone in a Barbershop Quartet. These days, he sticks to harmonizing storylines and character arcs—but never rule out a comeback tour.

Reviews

[Penny · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was so excited to read this second book as I’d forgotten all about this series until I saw this one. I just loved this first one. This second book is a chonker at over 500 pages, and even though I don’t like large books like this one, I was enthralled from the beginning to the end. I absolutely adore Finn, and his pain about the death of his parents and wife are just so real. His friendship with Skye is real, too, and I love how he figures out about his friendship (might not make sense, but will when reading) with her. Add in his race to find out what’s going on, his courage in finding out who he really is, and his courage to maybe let go of some of those issues are wonderful plots on their own. I just love this series, and I thought this might be the last one until the epilogue, and I’m excited to read that there will be more from this talented urban fantasy author. Highly recommend. I was provided a complimentary copy which I voluntarily reviewed.

[Rebel · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Alchemist’s Journey by Jef Curlin is an electrifying addition to the Finn Graye Series, blending supernatural intrigue, high-stakes action, and a touch of alchemical mystery into a gripping urban fantasy. If you love fast-paced adventures with morally complex heroes, ancient magic, and shadowy institutions, this book is a must-read.

Finn Graye is no ordinary alchemist—he works for the Magistracy of the Supernatural, an organization dedicated to protecting the world from dark forces. But when enemies emerge to bring down the Magistracy, Finn finds himself in the middle of a deadly game—one that could either save the world or doom it. With a mysterious artifact of immense power in his possession, Finn must navigate dangerous alliances, powerful adversaries, and the unsettling question: is he truly the hero of this story, or the greatest threat of all?

I loved the world-building in this book—the supernatural elements are seamlessly woven into the modern world, creating a setting that feels immersive and lived-in. Finn is a compelling protagonist, intelligent and resourceful, but with just enough mystery surrounding him to keep you questioning his true motives. The story never slows down, keeping you hooked with unexpected twists, magical battles, and layers of secrets that unfold in thrilling ways.

If you’re a fan of urban fantasy series like The Dresden Files or Iron Druid Chronicles, The Alchemist’s Journey delivers the same level of action, intrigue, and sharp storytelling. This is a world you’ll want to get lost in—and trust me, you won’t want to leave.

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ – A masterful blend of alchemy, danger, and unforgettable characters!.

[Patrick Chadd · Rating 5 out of 5]

Jef Curlin’s The Alchemist’s Journey was a fantastic debut—an immersive, character-driven urban fantasy that hit all the right notes—and I’m happy to say that the second installment delivers just as strongly.

The continuity between books is seamless, with rich character development and a steady stream of plot twists that manage to surprise without feeling forced. Curlin has a talent for keeping the story arc fresh while deepening the emotional and magical threads that made the first book so compelling. The world expands, the stakes grow, and yet the story remains grounded in the characters’ personal journeys.

There was one element in the second book that felt a little discordant to me—something that didn’t quite land—but in the end, this is the author’s vision, not mine. And thankfully, it didn’t detract from the overall experience.

Best of all, the second book wraps things up without leaning on a cliffhanger, which I always appreciate. Curlin leaves the door open for future stories in this world, and it’s a world I’d happily return to—especially if we get to follow other characters' paths.

This series has been a genuine pleasure to read. Curlin has proven he’s more than just a promising debut author—he’s one to keep an eye on. I’ll be first in line for book three.

[Annarella · Rating 5 out of 5]

I think Oscar Wilde would have said about this book: "To stumble upon one brilliant novel is a delightful accident; to find two entwined in a series is a destiny too exquisite to ignore."
Jef Curlin’s The Alchemist’s Journey and The Alchemist’s Dilemma are gripping urban fantasy novels packed with magic, mystery, and, yes, sentient cats. Finding a single great book is a delight, but discovering a series worth following? That’s pure alchemy.
The Alchemist’s Journey is more than a tale of magic—it’s about self-discovery. Finn Graye, once a knight, now an alchemist, is pulled into a dangerous conspiracy. His transformation is not just about mastering alchemy but learning that fate is rarely kind.
The Alchemist’s Dilemma goes beyond magical conflicts—it’s about confronting the past. Finn must navigate the consequences of his choices, proving that wisdom often comes at a cost.
Curlin’s world is mysterious and unpredictable, but Finn’s greatest strength isn’t his magic—it’s his resilience. If Oscar Wilde were to review these books, he might note that the greatest danger isn’t alchemy, but fate itself. After all, what is life without a little risk?
Highly recommended.
Many thanks to the publisher for this ARC, all opinions are mine

[Wes Baird · Rating 2 out of 5]

What the heck...

This book a train wreck in four parts.

Part 1, where we have Finn explaining to everyone who will listen why his relationship with Gwynn didn't work and why he is ok with that.

Part 2, where everyone tells Finn how weak and worthless he is despite him being so OP last book.

Part 3, where Finn becomes so OP he breaks the world and god like figures tell him not to do that again, for which he feels guilty about the rest of the book for using ultimate power

Part four is whatever the heck the finale was. It wrapped ok but the characters and motivations overall were all over the place. It is also quite hard to track all these extradimensional races who we have either not met or barely met.

[Adena Lee · Rating 5 out of 5]

Reading this was like reading Theophilus Monroe's Vilokan Asylum series - both have a painfully humble main character who tries so hard to act rightly with much outside interference and who both end up handling issues of almost biblical proportions. The scope of Finn's actions and influence is almost beyond human comprehension. It is good thing that his feline godfather was there to guide him. There may be something to the idea that cats are a superior species.

I received an ARC from the author and I am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Steven McCorkle · Rating 4 out of 5]

Another great read in this series. In reviewing book 1, I said I hope the author would make it a series, and he did. Now, a third book should be coming soon. This book felt a little rushed at times, but the author is clearly talented. Despite the fact that this book could have been expanded and split into two, it was still a very good read. The creativity and originality of this story have me looking forward to reading lots of Jef Curlin work in the future!

[Tanya · Rating 5 out of 5]

He wanted a quiet life but he is about to be offered a choice he cannot turn doen, a chance to avenge his patients and wife life so he takes it but it will not be so easy. He loses his cane and he becomes the hunted rather than the hunter. See just how he will get on.
I received an advance copy from hidden gems and was soon caught up in his thirst for vengeance

[Magnolia Spruce · Rating 4 out of 5]

I missed the first one but still it didn't make much of a difference since this book explains clearly. The writing is beautiful and the way the details are described is enthralling. I love how easily the book flows and the strong story line. Definitely a good read but a long one.

[Mrs. Priscilla M. Dicus · Rating 4 out of 5]

Wow! Complex had to go back and reread passages to figure out what I missed. Even though it can be a bit confusing it is a great finish to this series. All sorts of funky monsters etc. oh and Mr. Smith will blow your mind.

[Mik Wasiak · Rating 4 out of 5]

A good second book I like characters and magic urban fantasy

[Sheri C Patterson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent book! Captured me from the first page. Can’t wait for the next one!