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Whispers of the Elixir
“Balancing politics and personal awakening, the fantasy novel Whispers of the Elixir is an engaging entry into a broader saga.” – Foreword Clarion Reviews
"Unlike many fantasy stories, the book is full of strong female characters and nuanced magical properties that go beyond the standard fare of wizards and mages. This is a fresh spin on the genre and a promising launch of a new universe.” – BlueInk Review
A matriarchal empire. A princess with forbidden magic. A mother who would kill to protect her own legacy.
As heir to the Min empire, Tori has spent her life under the iron will of her mother, Empress Zinchen—a sovereign determined to shape the world in her own image. But Tori has been hiding a dangerous a forbidden elemental power tied to the world’s mythic past. If Zinchen discovers the truth, it will cost Tori her life.
Haunted by this threat, Tori flees into the hidden lands—an ancient realm of ghost-flowers, sentient forests, and immortals from a half-remembered age. But magic here is neither blessing nor curse—it is a reflection, a test, a force that shapes as much as it destroys. And as her trials progress, Tori is stripped of certainty and pride. To survive her mother’s ambition, she must use what she learns to suppress the power that could doom her—but in doing so, she risks losing the very future she was born to inherit.
Whispers of the Elixir begins the Order of the Ember series—a slow-burn, character-driven epic of legacy, sacrifice, and the strength of a princess destined to rise from the shadows and claim her place in legend.
Here you will find the political intrigue of Andrea Stewart , the mythic worldbuilding of Ken Liu , and the emotional resonance of M.L. Wang .
"Unlike many fantasy stories, the book is full of strong female characters and nuanced magical properties that go beyond the standard fare of wizards and mages. This is a fresh spin on the genre and a promising launch of a new universe.” – BlueInk Review
A matriarchal empire. A princess with forbidden magic. A mother who would kill to protect her own legacy.
As heir to the Min empire, Tori has spent her life under the iron will of her mother, Empress Zinchen—a sovereign determined to shape the world in her own image. But Tori has been hiding a dangerous a forbidden elemental power tied to the world’s mythic past. If Zinchen discovers the truth, it will cost Tori her life.
Haunted by this threat, Tori flees into the hidden lands—an ancient realm of ghost-flowers, sentient forests, and immortals from a half-remembered age. But magic here is neither blessing nor curse—it is a reflection, a test, a force that shapes as much as it destroys. And as her trials progress, Tori is stripped of certainty and pride. To survive her mother’s ambition, she must use what she learns to suppress the power that could doom her—but in doing so, she risks losing the very future she was born to inherit.
Whispers of the Elixir begins the Order of the Ember series—a slow-burn, character-driven epic of legacy, sacrifice, and the strength of a princess destined to rise from the shadows and claim her place in legend.
Here you will find the political intrigue of Andrea Stewart , the mythic worldbuilding of Ken Liu , and the emotional resonance of M.L. Wang .
- GenresFantasy
591 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 14, 2025
4 people are currently reading
26 people want to read
About the author
C.P. Silver
1 book7 followersC.P. Silver writes epic fantasy set in a world where matriarchy is absolute, with immersive worldbuilding, evocative prose, and emotionally complex characters.
Born of Caribbean heritage and raised in the Cayman Islands, she later became a French national and settled in Europe. A former lawyer with a master’s in law, she also studied Chinese medicine on the side—experiences that shape the nuance and depth of her debut novel, Whispers of the Elixir.
Set in a matriarchal empire filled with secrets and sentient forests, it’s a slow-burn, epic fantasy centered on legacy, inheritance, and the dangerous cost of power.
When not writing, she’s usually reading fantasy in a quiet nook or walking somewhere green, listening for the next story.
Born of Caribbean heritage and raised in the Cayman Islands, she later became a French national and settled in Europe. A former lawyer with a master’s in law, she also studied Chinese medicine on the side—experiences that shape the nuance and depth of her debut novel, Whispers of the Elixir.
Set in a matriarchal empire filled with secrets and sentient forests, it’s a slow-burn, epic fantasy centered on legacy, inheritance, and the dangerous cost of power.
When not writing, she’s usually reading fantasy in a quiet nook or walking somewhere green, listening for the next story.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 39 reviews
November 27, 2025
I love the complex world building in this box the flipped matriarchal society was such an interesting take. I found the magic system to be unique and interesting with the different types alchemy, wielding etc but all tied to a similar theme and the kernel of power.
I really enjoyed getting the different perspectives would have liked more of Caliss she was so intriguing. I found Tori’s character development so great she was so insufferable and pretentious at the start but her growth as she goes through training and finding strength in her abilities and changing her perspective changed my opinion of her and by the end I loved her.
I really enjoyed getting the different perspectives would have liked more of Caliss she was so intriguing. I found Tori’s character development so great she was so insufferable and pretentious at the start but her growth as she goes through training and finding strength in her abilities and changing her perspective changed my opinion of her and by the end I loved her.
October 5, 2025
This was a fabulous read. The world building was great, the politics, the elemental magic - I enjoyed it all. I really enjoyed the characters. Tori and the empress played off against one another well. The multiple POV made me feel more immersed in the world. The undercurrent of romance waiting to happen was just right.
I cannot wait for the next book.
I got my copy from Netgalley.
I cannot wait for the next book.
I got my copy from Netgalley.
November 27, 2025
Where to start! Firstly, this book is like a journey. You get to know the characters, the world they live in and everything around them. I loved the length of the chapters, not overly long like some books within this genre. I also didn’t feel over whelmed by the characters at the start. Yes, there are quite a few but they are introduced gradually and I easily got a gist of who was who.
Considering this book is nearly 600 pages, it really didn’t feel long. You get drawn in and captivated by the characters and their journeys, watching them navigate through this different world, that before you know it you have reached the end.
As I neared those final pages I did feel a likeness to The Lord of the Rings, the immense journey, the responsibility upon the characters, the huge world they live in and what must come next. How this can be a debut novel yet hold your interest and intrigue like such well known titles is an amazing accomplishment. You really would not know that this is a debut novel. The writing is second to none and the whole story keeps you captivated throughout. I could easily envisage this turned into a movie.
The characters are well thought out and well developed. I loved watching Tori’s growth, her confidence and tenacity growing. Her ability to strive for what she needs to achieve, but also her caring side, the protectiveness of her friends.
I’d love to know more about the elixir and full meaning behind the stone kernels. This book covers so much, but it’s all weaved together well, plus the cover! That would certainly attract you.
So all in all, I’d definitely recommend this one. There’s plenty to get your head around but I really enjoyed learning all about the land Tori lives in. Peach Blossom Grove was my favourite place and enjoyed the parts set here the most.
Considering this book is nearly 600 pages, it really didn’t feel long. You get drawn in and captivated by the characters and their journeys, watching them navigate through this different world, that before you know it you have reached the end.
As I neared those final pages I did feel a likeness to The Lord of the Rings, the immense journey, the responsibility upon the characters, the huge world they live in and what must come next. How this can be a debut novel yet hold your interest and intrigue like such well known titles is an amazing accomplishment. You really would not know that this is a debut novel. The writing is second to none and the whole story keeps you captivated throughout. I could easily envisage this turned into a movie.
The characters are well thought out and well developed. I loved watching Tori’s growth, her confidence and tenacity growing. Her ability to strive for what she needs to achieve, but also her caring side, the protectiveness of her friends.
I’d love to know more about the elixir and full meaning behind the stone kernels. This book covers so much, but it’s all weaved together well, plus the cover! That would certainly attract you.
So all in all, I’d definitely recommend this one. There’s plenty to get your head around but I really enjoyed learning all about the land Tori lives in. Peach Blossom Grove was my favourite place and enjoyed the parts set here the most.
November 10, 2025
Great read! I really liked Tori and her ways of thinking and doing things.
I loved how original the world build is, the way the author created scenes describing the world around us. as well as the imaginative creatures like the tailu-bird.
AIf youve not read it yet.. stop reading my review.. as I do think the blood magic part got me really thinking.. if that was this day in age about many people would genuinely try it..
I loved how original the world build is, the way the author created scenes describing the world around us. as well as the imaginative creatures like the tailu-bird.
AIf youve not read it yet.. stop reading my review.. as I do think the blood magic part got me really thinking.. if that was this day in age about many people would genuinely try it..
October 14, 2025
[ARC Review]
4 stars -- overall I liked this book!
It's obvious the author is super passionate about world-building, mythology, and East Asian medicine because the lore is DEEP. The lines between legend and history, magic and reality, are very blurry and make this matriarchal culture rich and intriguing. Most of the lore is told through storytelling and spans from recent history to ancestors to gods, trying to set up the whole projected series. There's a big chunk of storytelling in the second quarter of the book (30-40%) which is cool but also slowed the pace a lot, so I honestly ended up skimming most of it to get the gist.
Once past that and on to the magic of wielding, dawn-essence, and elixir, I really liked it and it flew by. The political intrigue between Zinchen and Tori (plus Elnora, my fave) was definitely the highlight and they play off each other well. Tori is idealistic, stubborn, and very gifted, which makes her both easy to root for and also sooo frustrating. She goes through a lot of character growth in the second half though so I'd be excited to see her in a sequel. I hope the main love interest (at least I assume??) also gets a little more screentime next book :') his friend seemed to have a lot more personality (I did like Ruvien).
The vibes of this book are rich, atmospheric, and there's a lot of potential to this world, so I would recommend if you like Asian-inspired fantasy!
4 stars -- overall I liked this book!
It's obvious the author is super passionate about world-building, mythology, and East Asian medicine because the lore is DEEP. The lines between legend and history, magic and reality, are very blurry and make this matriarchal culture rich and intriguing. Most of the lore is told through storytelling and spans from recent history to ancestors to gods, trying to set up the whole projected series. There's a big chunk of storytelling in the second quarter of the book (30-40%) which is cool but also slowed the pace a lot, so I honestly ended up skimming most of it to get the gist.
Once past that and on to the magic of wielding, dawn-essence, and elixir, I really liked it and it flew by. The political intrigue between Zinchen and Tori (plus Elnora, my fave) was definitely the highlight and they play off each other well. Tori is idealistic, stubborn, and very gifted, which makes her both easy to root for and also sooo frustrating. She goes through a lot of character growth in the second half though so I'd be excited to see her in a sequel. I hope the main love interest (at least I assume??) also gets a little more screentime next book :') his friend seemed to have a lot more personality (I did like Ruvien).
The vibes of this book are rich, atmospheric, and there's a lot of potential to this world, so I would recommend if you like Asian-inspired fantasy!
October 22, 2025
Firstly, let's start by saying what a beautiful cover this has. The scenery looks stunning. It would definitely attract me to it sitting on a bookshelf!
The first 30-40% was quite hard-going for me. There is a huge amount of world building, its totally common in this kind if book, but its something I struggle with. Once I got past that and started to actually get to know the main players I was totally hooked.
Set in a world of matriarchal power, it was great to see Tori as such a strong female lead. She also had no problem showing her vulnerable side, especially with her best friend and confidante Elnora.
I loved the time in Peach Blossom Grove, I thought the people and the idea of their hidden village was brilliant.
I don't feel like I ever truly understood the idea of the Elixir, kernels and wielding. There was so much else to learn about this world that this went a bit on the back burner despite seemingly being key to everything. Maybe I overlooked it as there was always so much going on.
I desperately want to know more about Senrik and see what develops there.
I think book 2 will be full of adventure and hopefully more development of the relationships and I would definitely like to continue the story.
The first 30-40% was quite hard-going for me. There is a huge amount of world building, its totally common in this kind if book, but its something I struggle with. Once I got past that and started to actually get to know the main players I was totally hooked.
Set in a world of matriarchal power, it was great to see Tori as such a strong female lead. She also had no problem showing her vulnerable side, especially with her best friend and confidante Elnora.
I loved the time in Peach Blossom Grove, I thought the people and the idea of their hidden village was brilliant.
I don't feel like I ever truly understood the idea of the Elixir, kernels and wielding. There was so much else to learn about this world that this went a bit on the back burner despite seemingly being key to everything. Maybe I overlooked it as there was always so much going on.
I desperately want to know more about Senrik and see what develops there.
I think book 2 will be full of adventure and hopefully more development of the relationships and I would definitely like to continue the story.
November 23, 2025
Thanks to Love Book Tours and the author C.P. Silver for the copy, it hasn’t affected my honest review.
As the heir to the Min Empire, Tori has spent her entire life trying to shake off the control of her mother, Empress Zinchen, and her intentions to shape the world to her liking. Hiding a power that her people see as monstrous and Zinchen would see her executed for, Tori challenges her mother’s rule as best she can without drawing more attention. Terrified that Empress Zinchen will discover the truth about her, Tori flees into the wilds- hidden lands full of ancient, immortal warriors, sentient forests and wielders of magic like herself. Following closely behind, Zinchen hunts for her missing daughter, intent on discovering her secrets. Joining with a sect of rebels at a hidden location named Peach Blossom Grove, Tori is forced into a series of trials to awaken her powers but these same gifts could also lead to her- and the Min Empire’s- ruin. In order to survive Zinchen’s ambitions and to be the woman she knows she can be, Tori might have to sacrifice everything she knows for the future.
This is a hugely ambitious book with some of the most detailed worldbuilding and magic systems I think I’ve read. I’m a huge epic fantasy lover and I adored the political give and take between Zinchen and Tori in this book a lot. They’re very alike and this makes their scenes shine as Tori pushes back against her mother over and over again. At first Tori’s ability to fight back is limited but as she grows more confident and accepting of her power, we get to see her shine. I liked how she had to unlearn her biases once she reached the forests and forgot that she’s a princess, especially alongside her maid Elnora. There’s so much happening in this book and a lot of information drops at once, which can be overwhelming. I do think there’s aspects that could have been shortened down and I wish we’d spent some more time with Zinchen in parts. The characters are really well written and I’m interested to see what might come next for them.
As the heir to the Min Empire, Tori has spent her entire life trying to shake off the control of her mother, Empress Zinchen, and her intentions to shape the world to her liking. Hiding a power that her people see as monstrous and Zinchen would see her executed for, Tori challenges her mother’s rule as best she can without drawing more attention. Terrified that Empress Zinchen will discover the truth about her, Tori flees into the wilds- hidden lands full of ancient, immortal warriors, sentient forests and wielders of magic like herself. Following closely behind, Zinchen hunts for her missing daughter, intent on discovering her secrets. Joining with a sect of rebels at a hidden location named Peach Blossom Grove, Tori is forced into a series of trials to awaken her powers but these same gifts could also lead to her- and the Min Empire’s- ruin. In order to survive Zinchen’s ambitions and to be the woman she knows she can be, Tori might have to sacrifice everything she knows for the future.
This is a hugely ambitious book with some of the most detailed worldbuilding and magic systems I think I’ve read. I’m a huge epic fantasy lover and I adored the political give and take between Zinchen and Tori in this book a lot. They’re very alike and this makes their scenes shine as Tori pushes back against her mother over and over again. At first Tori’s ability to fight back is limited but as she grows more confident and accepting of her power, we get to see her shine. I liked how she had to unlearn her biases once she reached the forests and forgot that she’s a princess, especially alongside her maid Elnora. There’s so much happening in this book and a lot of information drops at once, which can be overwhelming. I do think there’s aspects that could have been shortened down and I wish we’d spent some more time with Zinchen in parts. The characters are really well written and I’m interested to see what might come next for them.
December 29, 2025
Rating: 4.5/5 (rounded up to 5)
Set in a Ming Dynasty-inspired Matriarchal empire, power is everything and no one can be trusted. We follow Tori (daughter of the Empress) on her journey to protect the downtrodden, oppressed by her mother’s ambition to rule over all the kingdoms at any cost. In this world, magic is real and its use outlawed except for the chosen few aligned to the Empress. When Tori discovers her hidden power isn’t cured and is spilling out, despite her careful hold on it, she has no choice but to find those remaining few with the power to train her.
I was not expecting to love this book. At 600 pages, I went in assuming it was in need of a good edit or would spend 20 pages describing a hill. But boy was I wrong. This story is a gently-building, sweeping epic fantasy, with complex characters (ALL the political intrigue!) and a gorgeous elemental magic system. Yes, as a true fantasy novel, there is a lot going on, with lots of lore to learn, characters to remember and plot strands to keep track of, but this only serves to build a compelling world.
Overall, Tori's struggles and growth are believable and enrich a classic rebellious daughter story into a twisting journey of discovery. Plus the side characters are just as delightful. I also love the sprinkle of trials in there. I would recommend this as something new for magic fans that think they've read it all and YA readers who want to step into full blown fantasy.
For transparency, I was delighted to receive a physical copy of this book for review and look forward to supporting the rest of the series and more of the author’s work.
Set in a Ming Dynasty-inspired Matriarchal empire, power is everything and no one can be trusted. We follow Tori (daughter of the Empress) on her journey to protect the downtrodden, oppressed by her mother’s ambition to rule over all the kingdoms at any cost. In this world, magic is real and its use outlawed except for the chosen few aligned to the Empress. When Tori discovers her hidden power isn’t cured and is spilling out, despite her careful hold on it, she has no choice but to find those remaining few with the power to train her.
I was not expecting to love this book. At 600 pages, I went in assuming it was in need of a good edit or would spend 20 pages describing a hill. But boy was I wrong. This story is a gently-building, sweeping epic fantasy, with complex characters (ALL the political intrigue!) and a gorgeous elemental magic system. Yes, as a true fantasy novel, there is a lot going on, with lots of lore to learn, characters to remember and plot strands to keep track of, but this only serves to build a compelling world.
Overall, Tori's struggles and growth are believable and enrich a classic rebellious daughter story into a twisting journey of discovery. Plus the side characters are just as delightful. I also love the sprinkle of trials in there. I would recommend this as something new for magic fans that think they've read it all and YA readers who want to step into full blown fantasy.
For transparency, I was delighted to receive a physical copy of this book for review and look forward to supporting the rest of the series and more of the author’s work.
January 6, 2026
Whispers of the Elixir is a richly layered epic fantasy that balances political intrigue with an inward, character driven journey of awakening and restraint. Rather than framing magic as a simple instrument of dominance or destiny, C.P. Silver presents it as a reflective force one that exposes fear, ambition, and moral fracture as much as it offers power.
At the novel’s center is Tori, heir to the Min empire and daughter of the formidable Empress Zinchen. Their relationship defined by control, legacy, and the threat of annihilation gives the story its emotional and political gravity. Tori’s forbidden elemental magic is not merely a secret to be protected, but a test of identity: what must be suppressed to survive, and what must be embraced to claim one’s future.
Silver’s worldbuilding is immersive without excess. The hidden lands Tori flees into filled with sentient forests, ghost flowers, and immortals feel ancient and mythic, yet governed by coherent, nuanced rules. Magic here exacts a cost, stripping characters of certainty and pride rather than granting easy mastery. This restraint allows the novel’s themes of sacrifice, inheritance, and self-definition to emerge with clarity.
What distinguishes Whispers of the Elixir is its emphasis on female power in all its forms political, maternal, magical, and moral without flattening those forces into archetypes. The result is a debut that feels both epic in scope and intimate in consequence. As the opening volume of the Order of the Ember series, it promises a saga grounded not just in spectacle, but in the difficult, often painful work of becoming.
At the novel’s center is Tori, heir to the Min empire and daughter of the formidable Empress Zinchen. Their relationship defined by control, legacy, and the threat of annihilation gives the story its emotional and political gravity. Tori’s forbidden elemental magic is not merely a secret to be protected, but a test of identity: what must be suppressed to survive, and what must be embraced to claim one’s future.
Silver’s worldbuilding is immersive without excess. The hidden lands Tori flees into filled with sentient forests, ghost flowers, and immortals feel ancient and mythic, yet governed by coherent, nuanced rules. Magic here exacts a cost, stripping characters of certainty and pride rather than granting easy mastery. This restraint allows the novel’s themes of sacrifice, inheritance, and self-definition to emerge with clarity.
What distinguishes Whispers of the Elixir is its emphasis on female power in all its forms political, maternal, magical, and moral without flattening those forces into archetypes. The result is a debut that feels both epic in scope and intimate in consequence. As the opening volume of the Order of the Ember series, it promises a saga grounded not just in spectacle, but in the difficult, often painful work of becoming.
December 31, 2025
In a fierce matriarchal empire, Princess Tori has spent her entire life under her mother’s iron rule. Empress Zinchen will do anything to protect her legacy even if it means destroying her own daughter. But Tori is hiding a forbidden magic and if her mother discovers the truth, it could cost Tori everything.
Escaping the danger closing in, Tori flees into the hidden lands, a realm filled with ghost-flowers, sentient forests, and immortals from a half-forgotten age. Here, magic isn’t simply good or evil, it’s a test, a mirror, a force that can both create and destroy.
As Tori faces trial after trial, she’s stripped of everything she thought she knew. To survive her mother’s ambitions and uncover who she truly is, she must learn to wield her power without letting it consume her. But embracing it could cost her the very future she was meant to claim…
This book had the most extensive world building I have ever read. Many layers filled with characters and different lands set the groundwork for what is going to be an epic journey. It did take me a bit to get into it but I knew it was the first book in a fantasy series so world building takes time. Once it finally clicked, I couldn’t put the book down! I am excited for what is to come. This was the authors debut but the writing felt like she was a seasoned author.
Escaping the danger closing in, Tori flees into the hidden lands, a realm filled with ghost-flowers, sentient forests, and immortals from a half-forgotten age. Here, magic isn’t simply good or evil, it’s a test, a mirror, a force that can both create and destroy.
As Tori faces trial after trial, she’s stripped of everything she thought she knew. To survive her mother’s ambitions and uncover who she truly is, she must learn to wield her power without letting it consume her. But embracing it could cost her the very future she was meant to claim…
This book had the most extensive world building I have ever read. Many layers filled with characters and different lands set the groundwork for what is going to be an epic journey. It did take me a bit to get into it but I knew it was the first book in a fantasy series so world building takes time. Once it finally clicked, I couldn’t put the book down! I am excited for what is to come. This was the authors debut but the writing felt like she was a seasoned author.
November 27, 2025
Firstly, I can't believe this is C.P Silvers debut novel! The amount of world building and character development in one book was extremely impressive. The book is a chonk at 591 pages, which does allow for the writer to expand of the world and characters within it, however I was still impressed by the details of which she did it.
I highly enjoyed the amount of politics that was in the book as it made for such an interesting read of how the story was going to play out. The scenes were always very detailed that helped you feel very immersed in it. I enjoyed all the characters, especially Tori as I felt she was a very strong FMC. The magic system was very unique and refreshing from other fantasy books that I have been reading.
My only critique of the book is when its changed from one character to another, it felt quite abrupt. However, that is just me as I like to know who's POV the chapter is focusing on.
Overall, I really enjoyed this book and if you like Asian-inspired fantasy then this is one for you to add to your tbr list.
I would like to thank love book tours and the author for having me on this tour and read-along in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
I highly enjoyed the amount of politics that was in the book as it made for such an interesting read of how the story was going to play out. The scenes were always very detailed that helped you feel very immersed in it. I enjoyed all the characters, especially Tori as I felt she was a very strong FMC. The magic system was very unique and refreshing from other fantasy books that I have been reading.
My only critique of the book is when its changed from one character to another, it felt quite abrupt. However, that is just me as I like to know who's POV the chapter is focusing on.
Overall, I really enjoyed this book and if you like Asian-inspired fantasy then this is one for you to add to your tbr list.
I would like to thank love book tours and the author for having me on this tour and read-along in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
December 1, 2025
What a gorgeous, mystical world to visit!
This is listed as Book 1 and I, for one, can't wait to dive right into the next one when it's available! The author has created a beautiful, matriarchal world full of magic, adventure, and intrigue. What a great chance to see what it would be like if women ran things for once! Of course, she makes a lot of political and social commentary along the way reminding us of that old adage that "power corrupts and absolute power corrupts absolutely."
If you love high fantasy books filled with magical settings straight out of a Dungeons and Dragons campaign, this is a great read for you. The stakes are high, magic is forbidden, and our MC is of course a magic wielder (a general term but also what they call them). I really love a lot of the supporting characters in this one, and like many fantasy books you might want to take notes or something because there are so many you might get confused.
The world building is wonderful, no info dumps or slow parts - it felt absolutely seamless. And the characters were also well built, which doing both great is extra special!
As with many books like this, there is a great deal of violence, including SA, and dysfunctional family dynamics.
This is listed as Book 1 and I, for one, can't wait to dive right into the next one when it's available! The author has created a beautiful, matriarchal world full of magic, adventure, and intrigue. What a great chance to see what it would be like if women ran things for once! Of course, she makes a lot of political and social commentary along the way reminding us of that old adage that "power corrupts and absolute power corrupts absolutely."
If you love high fantasy books filled with magical settings straight out of a Dungeons and Dragons campaign, this is a great read for you. The stakes are high, magic is forbidden, and our MC is of course a magic wielder (a general term but also what they call them). I really love a lot of the supporting characters in this one, and like many fantasy books you might want to take notes or something because there are so many you might get confused.
The world building is wonderful, no info dumps or slow parts - it felt absolutely seamless. And the characters were also well built, which doing both great is extra special!
As with many books like this, there is a great deal of violence, including SA, and dysfunctional family dynamics.
December 1, 2025
Ooohhhh she's a chonky one for sure. But Whispers of the Elixir hooked me in so fast, mostly because it’s not just another 'princess with secret magic' story.
Following Tori on this epic journey felt like watching someone peel back layers of fear they didn’t realise they were living under - which made me root for her harder. The palace scenes are tight and suffocating, and when she escapes the whole book seems to breathe....while still projecting a warning that power always has a price.
What worked best for me was how personal the stakes felt. Tori’s struggle with hiding versus owning her gift isn’t melodramatic....it’s honest. The people around her give her choices weight instead of just drama and the magic isn’t flashy for its own sake either; it’s written in a way that feels physical and risky.
It’s a slower burn than I expected, but by the time everything came together near the end, I realised the pacing had quietly done its job. Not everything is resolved, but it’s the first in a series, and I finished it genuinely curious about who Tori will become if she stops running from herself.
This is a character-driven fantasy with atmosphere, tension, and a heroine who feels real instead of polished, this one definitely delivers.
Following Tori on this epic journey felt like watching someone peel back layers of fear they didn’t realise they were living under - which made me root for her harder. The palace scenes are tight and suffocating, and when she escapes the whole book seems to breathe....while still projecting a warning that power always has a price.
What worked best for me was how personal the stakes felt. Tori’s struggle with hiding versus owning her gift isn’t melodramatic....it’s honest. The people around her give her choices weight instead of just drama and the magic isn’t flashy for its own sake either; it’s written in a way that feels physical and risky.
It’s a slower burn than I expected, but by the time everything came together near the end, I realised the pacing had quietly done its job. Not everything is resolved, but it’s the first in a series, and I finished it genuinely curious about who Tori will become if she stops running from herself.
This is a character-driven fantasy with atmosphere, tension, and a heroine who feels real instead of polished, this one definitely delivers.
November 27, 2025
Whispers of the Elixir by C. P. Silver is a vibrantly imagined fantasy that stands out for incredible world-building and setting. The politics, magic system, and culture all blend together into a vivid world that has been a pleasure to explore. From warriors and a sentient forest to powerful magic wielders and the creatures such as the Tailu-bird, the world feels truly alive.
The story itself is just as engaging. I was intrigued by Tori’s struggle to break free from her mother’s control while navigating the influence of a leader determined to bend the world to conform to her own set of ideologies. Tori’s journey adds emotional tension to an already complex landscape, and I enjoyed seeing her forge her own identity.
A lot happens over the course of this book—sometimes so much that a few moments could have been condensed slightly—however I thoroughly enjoyed reading. The descriptive writing makes the setting easy join and follow, and the characters, relationships, and unfolding conflicts kept me invested throughout.
This was a brilliant and immersive read, and I’m definitely excited to see what comes next!
The story itself is just as engaging. I was intrigued by Tori’s struggle to break free from her mother’s control while navigating the influence of a leader determined to bend the world to conform to her own set of ideologies. Tori’s journey adds emotional tension to an already complex landscape, and I enjoyed seeing her forge her own identity.
A lot happens over the course of this book—sometimes so much that a few moments could have been condensed slightly—however I thoroughly enjoyed reading. The descriptive writing makes the setting easy join and follow, and the characters, relationships, and unfolding conflicts kept me invested throughout.
This was a brilliant and immersive read, and I’m definitely excited to see what comes next!
October 15, 2025
Tori has a gift that she must hide at all costs. To escape her grim world of political intrigue and merciless punishment, she enters a secret place called Peach Blossom Grove, which only admits those who are on a quest to find themselves.
The plot of Whispers of the Elixir is riveting. What I loved most about the book is the secret, magical world that is at once so pure and clear, it transports the reader back to their childhood. Peach Blossom Grove is a place where no judgement is passed, everyone who enters is accepted, and marvelous things happen when least expected. It is also filled with the kind of innocent friendships we once experienced in youth, and as I turned the pages, I found myself wanting to remain in that world.
C.P. Silver posses a magical power of her own, one that is able to immerse the reader in a world of sheer wonder. I am looking forward to the sequel(s) to this book.
The plot of Whispers of the Elixir is riveting. What I loved most about the book is the secret, magical world that is at once so pure and clear, it transports the reader back to their childhood. Peach Blossom Grove is a place where no judgement is passed, everyone who enters is accepted, and marvelous things happen when least expected. It is also filled with the kind of innocent friendships we once experienced in youth, and as I turned the pages, I found myself wanting to remain in that world.
C.P. Silver posses a magical power of her own, one that is able to immerse the reader in a world of sheer wonder. I am looking forward to the sequel(s) to this book.
November 27, 2025
I absolutely adore fantasy, it's my favourite genre, ever since reading The Hobbit as a child, but Whispers of Elixir is something a little different.
Most fantasy is male dominated, with very few female characters, and even fewer strong female characters. But in Whispers of the Elixir, we have a whole host of brilliant strong female characters, in a matriarchal society, which I found to be just so refreshing.
Being a Father of 3 Daughters, it's exactly what I want to see more of and what I want my Daughters to see more of in literature.
It's the beginning of The Order of the Ember series and is a tale of family, loyalty and sacrifice, with more than a dash or two of the magical and fantastical to boot.
It's very much character driven, with some great, vivid world building and a pace that flows along nicely.
I read this as part of the readalong across about a month.
4 🌟 🌟 🌟 🌟 's from me.
Most fantasy is male dominated, with very few female characters, and even fewer strong female characters. But in Whispers of the Elixir, we have a whole host of brilliant strong female characters, in a matriarchal society, which I found to be just so refreshing.
Being a Father of 3 Daughters, it's exactly what I want to see more of and what I want my Daughters to see more of in literature.
It's the beginning of The Order of the Ember series and is a tale of family, loyalty and sacrifice, with more than a dash or two of the magical and fantastical to boot.
It's very much character driven, with some great, vivid world building and a pace that flows along nicely.
I read this as part of the readalong across about a month.
4 🌟 🌟 🌟 🌟 's from me.
November 23, 2025
Thank you to the author and LBT for having me on the join the tour & read along for Whispers of the Elixir!
Little spoilers as possible:
Whispers of the Elixir is a multi POV, Politics involved fantasy.
Politics is a rare read for me so I tend to stick away from the topic, so jumping into this I’ll be honest I was worried I wouldn’t enjoy it so much.
Surprisingly, I actually really enjoyed the plot with the political elements of the story and with all the world building going on, it’s a chunky story with plenty to get you interested.
And to put the final say on it, just look at that cover! It’s quite beautiful!
I've never read anything by the author before so I look forward to future work by C.P. Silver which I hope I get to read :D
Would I recommend this book?
It’s brilliantly written & I absolutely would recommend others to read this!
Little spoilers as possible:
Whispers of the Elixir is a multi POV, Politics involved fantasy.
Politics is a rare read for me so I tend to stick away from the topic, so jumping into this I’ll be honest I was worried I wouldn’t enjoy it so much.
Surprisingly, I actually really enjoyed the plot with the political elements of the story and with all the world building going on, it’s a chunky story with plenty to get you interested.
And to put the final say on it, just look at that cover! It’s quite beautiful!
I've never read anything by the author before so I look forward to future work by C.P. Silver which I hope I get to read :D
Would I recommend this book?
It’s brilliantly written & I absolutely would recommend others to read this!
November 30, 2025
What a great debut by author CP Silver! As usually happens for me with fantasy books with strong world building, it took me a bit to get into a flow while reading Whispers of the Elixir. But once I got comfortable with the world and the characters, it felt like I raced through the rest of the book!
There is a whole cast of well developed, interesting characters with their own stories and POVs, which I really enjoyed. As I mentioned, I thought the world building was also really strong here. Politics, intrigue and powers - all the makings of a great fantasy series. I'm looking forward to continuing the Order of the Ember books!
Thank you to author CP Silver, Yellow Thearch Enterprises, and Love Books Tours for having me on the LBT read along and for the gifted copy of Whispers of the Elixir. All thoughts expressed are my own.
There is a whole cast of well developed, interesting characters with their own stories and POVs, which I really enjoyed. As I mentioned, I thought the world building was also really strong here. Politics, intrigue and powers - all the makings of a great fantasy series. I'm looking forward to continuing the Order of the Ember books!
Thank you to author CP Silver, Yellow Thearch Enterprises, and Love Books Tours for having me on the LBT read along and for the gifted copy of Whispers of the Elixir. All thoughts expressed are my own.
December 23, 2025
So much to say about why I loved this book.
Firstly, the world building. Detailed, magical and ambitiously creative, I adored the way the author created a brilliant epic fantasy world.
And the multi POV really worked! Made it easier to immerse into the world and the characters and be swept along in the story.
I loved Tori, she was strong and determined and one of those FMCs that becomes easy to connect with. The authors writing style is really immersive and creative and the characters in this book are very diverse and well rounded. They hold the readers attention and make the story!
This was a fantastic read and while super chunky I flew through it for a readalong because I wanted to know what happened next.
Keen to see read more and see what happens next in the series.
Thanks to Love book Tours and the author for my gifted book for the readalong. All thoughts are own.
Firstly, the world building. Detailed, magical and ambitiously creative, I adored the way the author created a brilliant epic fantasy world.
And the multi POV really worked! Made it easier to immerse into the world and the characters and be swept along in the story.
I loved Tori, she was strong and determined and one of those FMCs that becomes easy to connect with. The authors writing style is really immersive and creative and the characters in this book are very diverse and well rounded. They hold the readers attention and make the story!
This was a fantastic read and while super chunky I flew through it for a readalong because I wanted to know what happened next.
Keen to see read more and see what happens next in the series.
Thanks to Love book Tours and the author for my gifted book for the readalong. All thoughts are own.
November 22, 2025
Thanks for Love Books Tours and the author for the ARC opportunity. As always, this is an honest, voluntary review.
The world building in this one is exquisite. The passion the author approached the subject of medicine and lore, it's just really amazing. The matriarchal empire, the legends and culture mixed in such perfect way, it's really a massive and great work.
The characters were nice. I do admit that Tori has gotten on my nerves a little bit from time to time. There's only so much not so well thought out idealism I can tolerate. But she's gone through quite a growth during the second part of the story so I'm curious to see her in book 2.
I definitely recommend this to anybody who likes the East Asian inspired fantasy stories.
The world building in this one is exquisite. The passion the author approached the subject of medicine and lore, it's just really amazing. The matriarchal empire, the legends and culture mixed in such perfect way, it's really a massive and great work.
The characters were nice. I do admit that Tori has gotten on my nerves a little bit from time to time. There's only so much not so well thought out idealism I can tolerate. But she's gone through quite a growth during the second part of the story so I'm curious to see her in book 2.
I definitely recommend this to anybody who likes the East Asian inspired fantasy stories.
November 27, 2025
I thoroughly enjoyed this book. I found it had all the elements you would hope to find, in a fantasy read, and took each of those to the best it could in this first book.
The whole thing had excellent world building, really creating a brilliant world to immerse in and fully enjoy the book. The characters are unique and detailed, really giving people to love and to loathe. There were good layers and different companionships and interactions, creating a very real and in depth social circle in the book.
I really liked the overall tale and how much of a journey we were taken on in this first book. I do feel that enough detail and depth was out into the story to really create something that could be properly expanded into a full series.
The whole thing had excellent world building, really creating a brilliant world to immerse in and fully enjoy the book. The characters are unique and detailed, really giving people to love and to loathe. There were good layers and different companionships and interactions, creating a very real and in depth social circle in the book.
I really liked the overall tale and how much of a journey we were taken on in this first book. I do feel that enough detail and depth was out into the story to really create something that could be properly expanded into a full series.
November 28, 2025
Omg I cannot believe that this is C.P. Silver’s DEBUT novel🤯The world building and politics is just phenomenal. Every single detail in this world is intricate and well thought out. I love the magic system it’s nothing like I’ve ever read before and I’m curious to see it expand and develop even more in the next book. I will admit I did struggle to get into the story until about I was 50% of the way through and then something just clicked and I couldn’t put it down. At times I did find it a little difficult to know when it changed characters and sometimes got lost but after a while I slowly got the hang of it .
Overall I think this is an exceptional debut novel and I can’t wait to see what happens in the next!😊
Overall I think this is an exceptional debut novel and I can’t wait to see what happens in the next!😊
November 25, 2025
WOW! What an absolute stunner of a book! I thoroughly enjoyed this captivating story with such exquisite world building. You can see how much research and work had gone into this world. From the very first sentence, you are captivated.
The character building is definitely another level, and with so much detail, the story just flows so effortlessly. Another plus point is the right mixture of magic system, romance, and politics. I enjoyed watching Tori's character growing. I can't wait to see her and her character develop further in the next adventure. Definitely and highly recommend this book.
The character building is definitely another level, and with so much detail, the story just flows so effortlessly. Another plus point is the right mixture of magic system, romance, and politics. I enjoyed watching Tori's character growing. I can't wait to see her and her character develop further in the next adventure. Definitely and highly recommend this book.
November 27, 2025
Princess Tori is heir to the Min empire but her mother, Empress Zinchen, fiercely rules the territories as a powerful, vexatious, uncompromising matriarch, leaving Tori powerless over her own life. She wants equality and control and seeks this by fleeing to hidden lands. Here there are myths, magic and mystery. I loved the names of some of the locations in this book Greenstalk Teahouse, The Pavilion of Honorable Logograms and The Glade of Celestial Virtue in lands with forest lomi and kamen, guardians of nature and animals. The book is full of golden mists, alchemy and is a captivating read about secrets, legacy and destiny. I can’t wait for the next book in the Order of the Ember series.
November 27, 2025
I had a great time with this, I loved the settings - amazing, vivid description - the magic system - so intriguing - and the journey. I thought this was well-done, well-written, and thoughtfully conceived. I can't wait for book 2 to get to visit these characters again, and continue Tori's character arc! The side characters were my favourite, particularly the devotion to Tori shown by her best friend. The adventure/journey plot was fun to follow and meant we got to see more of the country, as does Tori, and interact more with different types of people. A great fantasy, I recommend this!
Thank you to the author and Love Books Tours for my review copy in exchange for an honest review.
Thank you to the author and Love Books Tours for my review copy in exchange for an honest review.
November 28, 2025
Firstly I have to applaud the author for her beautifully designed book cover. Her debut book is rich in world building, imagery, magic and mythology. I’m a huge fan of Asian inspired reads so it was a treat to join in on a read along for this book with other awesome readers. Tori’s story is one full of self discovery, fighting to belong and rising up against injustice. Her relationship with her mother was what truly made this book unique. She undergoes quite a bit of character growth, making her one of those fmcs you can’t help but to root for. This was a great start to the series and I’m eagerly anticipating book two.
November 29, 2025
What a read! Whispers of the Elixir is a beautifully written, enchanting story that drew me in immediately.
I sometimes struggle to understand how someone can have so much fantasy in their brain to produce such an incredible story and this book was one of those!
The author’s imaginative world-building created such an atmosphere that feels magical. The characters journeys are compelling from start to finish. This is the kind of book that stays with you long after you’ve finished.
Truly unforgettable, I can’t recommend it highly enough. I am very much looking forward to book 2! If you love beautifully written fantasy, Whispers of the Elixir is a must-read!
I sometimes struggle to understand how someone can have so much fantasy in their brain to produce such an incredible story and this book was one of those!
The author’s imaginative world-building created such an atmosphere that feels magical. The characters journeys are compelling from start to finish. This is the kind of book that stays with you long after you’ve finished.
Truly unforgettable, I can’t recommend it highly enough. I am very much looking forward to book 2! If you love beautifully written fantasy, Whispers of the Elixir is a must-read!
December 11, 2025
Whispers of the Elixir is a majestical story set in a strict matriarchal society. A young woman breaks free of her royal chains and follows her destiny into a world of magic.
Though the book starts slowly and it takes sometime to wrap your head around the incredible worldbuilding - stay with it. It's well worth it. I loved the details the author builds into her writing that make the story come alive.
The lore is deep and intricate, the multiple POV give breadth to the reading experience, and the fantasy elements are unique and immense. This is an ambitious and beautifully written debut. I highly recommended this book if you love true epic fantasy and I I look forward to the next in the series.
Though the book starts slowly and it takes sometime to wrap your head around the incredible worldbuilding - stay with it. It's well worth it. I loved the details the author builds into her writing that make the story come alive.
The lore is deep and intricate, the multiple POV give breadth to the reading experience, and the fantasy elements are unique and immense. This is an ambitious and beautifully written debut. I highly recommended this book if you love true epic fantasy and I I look forward to the next in the series.
November 27, 2025
I have loved being part of the Whispers of the Elixir ReadAlong tour and now its Review Day ✨
Thank you so much to @cpsilver_author
and @lovebookstours for my gifted copy of this amazing story. It is the first book in the Order of the Ember series.
A young girl, Tori, the heir to the throne of the realm our story is set in is trying to get out from under the influence and shadow of her mother and the matriarchal empire that she is head of. She doesn’t like the way the Empress is running things, very much disagrees with her ideas and wants to see a different world with kinder ways and less harm to others. Tori also has a secret that, if discovered, will cost her her life.
Tori ends up fleeing and discovers hidden lands where her secret magic is viewed very differently and she is put through trials to learn how to use it.
The world building is detailed and immersive and, like many books of this genre, takes a little while to get into it and understand the world. And what a clever world she has built!
I enjoyed this book a lot, it is a fairly chunky read at nearly 600 pages, but again, expected with the level of detail in the story. I was completely immersed in the story and I really hope to be able to carry on with further books in the series as they are published 🩷 hint hint 🤣🤣
Thank you so much to @cpsilver_author
and @lovebookstours for my gifted copy of this amazing story. It is the first book in the Order of the Ember series.
A young girl, Tori, the heir to the throne of the realm our story is set in is trying to get out from under the influence and shadow of her mother and the matriarchal empire that she is head of. She doesn’t like the way the Empress is running things, very much disagrees with her ideas and wants to see a different world with kinder ways and less harm to others. Tori also has a secret that, if discovered, will cost her her life.
Tori ends up fleeing and discovers hidden lands where her secret magic is viewed very differently and she is put through trials to learn how to use it.
The world building is detailed and immersive and, like many books of this genre, takes a little while to get into it and understand the world. And what a clever world she has built!
I enjoyed this book a lot, it is a fairly chunky read at nearly 600 pages, but again, expected with the level of detail in the story. I was completely immersed in the story and I really hope to be able to carry on with further books in the series as they are published 🩷 hint hint 🤣🤣
November 27, 2025
what an amazing first book in this series. The world building was phenomenal and really set the scene for everything that was going on throughout the book.
Tori was the perfect main character, she was strong willed and definitely put the interest of her people first.
I really enjoyed how the book was written from different characters POV as it gave us an unfiltered perspective into what they were thinking and most importantly upto!!
I am so invested in this world and I can't wait to see what happens next.
Tori was the perfect main character, she was strong willed and definitely put the interest of her people first.
I really enjoyed how the book was written from different characters POV as it gave us an unfiltered perspective into what they were thinking and most importantly upto!!
I am so invested in this world and I can't wait to see what happens next.
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