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Prima Materia: On Matter and Decay, Book 1
A LGBTQ+ spicy dark academia fantasy horror on alchemy, set in an alternative 1800s Europe.
The Alchemists inspired terror, and becoming one was the last thing he wanted.
In the dark and rainy city of Clawfort, the weakened Crown of Von Meier, the fearsome cult of Moonthorne Alchemists, and the infamous Guild of Thieves are spreading panic and plotting deadly subterfuge to determine who can be in control.
As the third child of one of the wealthiest and most prestigious families in the city, young Kilian Morgenstern resigned himself to the idea of merely running the family law office when the terrible news of his father's accidental death shakes his family from across the ocean.
While his brothers inherit the Morgenstern fortune, ensuring lives of luxury, the proud Kilian is forced to follow his father's last wishes to become an Alchemy student at the infamous Moonthorne Academy, trapped forever behind its inescapable walls with the ultimate goal of finding a cure for Death.
Driven by terrifying visions of unspeakable horrors that hang like an axe over the heads of his family and friends, the only person who offers to help Kilian out is a dangerous criminal and Guild member from his a scarred young man with demon-yellow eyes named Nikolas Vesa, who hates the Alchemists.
The only problem is that Nikolas also hates the Morgensterns to his core, and he’s eager to rip them apart...
This book contains explicit scenes, violence, and gore.
For a complete list of Trigger Warnings, please check out the Author's website.
The Alchemists inspired terror, and becoming one was the last thing he wanted.
In the dark and rainy city of Clawfort, the weakened Crown of Von Meier, the fearsome cult of Moonthorne Alchemists, and the infamous Guild of Thieves are spreading panic and plotting deadly subterfuge to determine who can be in control.
As the third child of one of the wealthiest and most prestigious families in the city, young Kilian Morgenstern resigned himself to the idea of merely running the family law office when the terrible news of his father's accidental death shakes his family from across the ocean.
While his brothers inherit the Morgenstern fortune, ensuring lives of luxury, the proud Kilian is forced to follow his father's last wishes to become an Alchemy student at the infamous Moonthorne Academy, trapped forever behind its inescapable walls with the ultimate goal of finding a cure for Death.
Driven by terrifying visions of unspeakable horrors that hang like an axe over the heads of his family and friends, the only person who offers to help Kilian out is a dangerous criminal and Guild member from his a scarred young man with demon-yellow eyes named Nikolas Vesa, who hates the Alchemists.
The only problem is that Nikolas also hates the Morgensterns to his core, and he’s eager to rip them apart...
This book contains explicit scenes, violence, and gore.
For a complete list of Trigger Warnings, please check out the Author's website.
340 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 31, 2025
About the author
Lance W. Bones
3 books8 followersLance W. Bones is an Italian LGBTQIA+ illustrator by day and author of dark fantasy, dystopian, and supernatural fiction by night. He takes pride in crafting authentic, complex, and nuanced representations of characters and neurodivergent individuals. With a degree in Arts, Music, and Entertainment from the University of Bologna, he cut his teeth in video editing, but his true passion lies in comics, esotericism, and metal music.
His debut dark academia horror novel, Prima Materia, is slated for release in late 2025, with his dystopian SFF novel, Posthuman, scheduled for 2026. You can find Lance on Instagram, Threads, and TikTok.
LANCE W. BONES WEBSITE
LANCE W. BONES LINKS
His debut dark academia horror novel, Prima Materia, is slated for release in late 2025, with his dystopian SFF novel, Posthuman, scheduled for 2026. You can find Lance on Instagram, Threads, and TikTok.
LANCE W. BONES WEBSITE
LANCE W. BONES LINKS
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Displaying 1 - 12 of 12 reviews
May 10, 2026
The best comparison I can make for this book is to a labrynth. I really have to pay attention to every detail and turn or I became lost and had to backtrack.
It fits well for dark and gritty academia. I enjoyed the complexity of each character even if I had to backtrack. Usually that would have me more hesitant to finish a book, but it was just way too interesting to walk away from.
Thank you for an arc copy. I have given my review by my own free will.
It fits well for dark and gritty academia. I enjoyed the complexity of each character even if I had to backtrack. Usually that would have me more hesitant to finish a book, but it was just way too interesting to walk away from.
Thank you for an arc copy. I have given my review by my own free will.
May 16, 2026
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
On Matter and Decay is, quite simply, a total masterclass in psychological disorientation—and I mean that in the best way possible. From the stunning cover art to the heart-pounding chase that opens the prologue, I was immediately hooked, even as the narrative began to weave a web so complex I spent most of the book trying to find my equilibrium.
This is not a traditional fantasy, nor would I classify it as a true romance, though it features intense connections and sexual elements. Instead, it feels like a high-stakes alchemical thriller where the rules of reality are constantly shifting. We follow Nik, a thief with a magical edge, and Kil, a third son caught in a oppressive family hierarchy. Their dynamic is electric and heartbreaking, especially as the plot pulls them into a world of corrupt alchemists, brainwashing, and political machinations.
Why it earned 5 stars:
What impressed me most was the writing quality. Even when I felt like I was in a narrative free-fall trying to grasp the magical hierarchy or the alchemists’ true motives, the prose was so sharp and well-crafted that I didn't want to find my footing! Every time I thought I finally understood the "matter" of the story, a new layer of "decay" (or a literal time loop!) would appear, resetting my expectations. The shock factor is high—one particular scene involving a pheasant and a character named Morel left me absolutely stunned.
Final Thoughts:
If you enjoy stories that don't hold your hand and instead challenge you to piece together a fragmented, magical puzzle, this is for you. One question answered seems to lead to a hundred more appearing, and while I’m still processing exactly what happened, I am thoroughly satisfied with the journey. It is a dark, dizzying, and brilliantly written start to the Prima Materia series. I would highly recommend it just to see if other readers can catch things I might have missed!
On Matter and Decay is, quite simply, a total masterclass in psychological disorientation—and I mean that in the best way possible. From the stunning cover art to the heart-pounding chase that opens the prologue, I was immediately hooked, even as the narrative began to weave a web so complex I spent most of the book trying to find my equilibrium.
This is not a traditional fantasy, nor would I classify it as a true romance, though it features intense connections and sexual elements. Instead, it feels like a high-stakes alchemical thriller where the rules of reality are constantly shifting. We follow Nik, a thief with a magical edge, and Kil, a third son caught in a oppressive family hierarchy. Their dynamic is electric and heartbreaking, especially as the plot pulls them into a world of corrupt alchemists, brainwashing, and political machinations.
Why it earned 5 stars:
What impressed me most was the writing quality. Even when I felt like I was in a narrative free-fall trying to grasp the magical hierarchy or the alchemists’ true motives, the prose was so sharp and well-crafted that I didn't want to find my footing! Every time I thought I finally understood the "matter" of the story, a new layer of "decay" (or a literal time loop!) would appear, resetting my expectations. The shock factor is high—one particular scene involving a pheasant and a character named Morel left me absolutely stunned.
Final Thoughts:
If you enjoy stories that don't hold your hand and instead challenge you to piece together a fragmented, magical puzzle, this is for you. One question answered seems to lead to a hundred more appearing, and while I’m still processing exactly what happened, I am thoroughly satisfied with the journey. It is a dark, dizzying, and brilliantly written start to the Prima Materia series. I would highly recommend it just to see if other readers can catch things I might have missed!
November 2, 2025
A very intriguing story meets a surgical writing style. Every word is chosen meticulously to express the concepts and enrich the scenes. The characters feel alive, and you can sense and live their struggles throughout the book with them. The world-building is really interesting, one of the best feature of this book, in my opinion. Can't wait to see where the story's heading.
March 6, 2026
Let me start by saying this is not a 'quick and easy' read. It's a book with complex characters, whose struggles and emotions feel real and make you connect to them, and worldbuilding that gets you hooked and require you to read carefully. I loved diving into the world that Lance W. Bones has created and I'm very excited to see where the story goes! I feel like this is a book that I'll appreciate more and more with every reread as I'll probably find details and clues I've missed.
Also.. this is one of the most beautiful books I own (I mean, look at that cover?!)
Also.. this is one of the most beautiful books I own (I mean, look at that cover?!)
April 22, 2026
Prima Materia: On Matter and Decay is the kind of dark fantasy that feels less like a story you simply read and more like something that slowly corrodes its way into your head.
From the outset, there’s an almost oppressive sense of decay woven into everything—setting, tone, even the way power itself seems to function in this world. It’s not just “dark” for aesthetic effect; it genuinely feels like the world is breaking down at a structural level, and everyone inside it is either adapting or being consumed by it.
The concept of matter and decay is what really carries the experience. There’s a constant fascination with transformation, deterioration, and what’s left behind when things stop being whole. It gives the book a philosophical edge that makes it feel heavier than your average fantasy read, even in quieter moments.
The atmosphere is strong—cold, clinical in places, and almost ritualistic in how it treats destruction. I found that really compelling, especially when the story leans into its more unsettling imagery. There’s a sense that nothing is permanent here, and that includes people, identities, and even power structures.
That said, this is not a light or easy read. The pacing is deliberate, sometimes to the point of feeling slow, and there are sections where the focus on concept and atmosphere outweighs forward momentum. I personally found those moments interesting, but I can see them feeling dense depending on what you’re expecting.
The characters exist more as extensions of ideas and forces within the world rather than deeply personal, emotionally accessible figures. That works for the tone, but it does create some distance when you’re looking for emotional connection or intimacy in the story.
From the outset, there’s an almost oppressive sense of decay woven into everything—setting, tone, even the way power itself seems to function in this world. It’s not just “dark” for aesthetic effect; it genuinely feels like the world is breaking down at a structural level, and everyone inside it is either adapting or being consumed by it.
The concept of matter and decay is what really carries the experience. There’s a constant fascination with transformation, deterioration, and what’s left behind when things stop being whole. It gives the book a philosophical edge that makes it feel heavier than your average fantasy read, even in quieter moments.
The atmosphere is strong—cold, clinical in places, and almost ritualistic in how it treats destruction. I found that really compelling, especially when the story leans into its more unsettling imagery. There’s a sense that nothing is permanent here, and that includes people, identities, and even power structures.
That said, this is not a light or easy read. The pacing is deliberate, sometimes to the point of feeling slow, and there are sections where the focus on concept and atmosphere outweighs forward momentum. I personally found those moments interesting, but I can see them feeling dense depending on what you’re expecting.
The characters exist more as extensions of ideas and forces within the world rather than deeply personal, emotionally accessible figures. That works for the tone, but it does create some distance when you’re looking for emotional connection or intimacy in the story.
November 1, 2025
4.5/5 Stars
This book is chaotic, cerebral, dark, and mind-bending...and I absolutely loved it. It is almost experimental in nature with the way it jumps from perspective to perspective, with each chapter being flashes of scenes that start to weave together over the course of the book. While this does not work for a lot of stories, it worked perfectly for the events that transpire in On Matter and Decay. It leaves you barely holding on to a thread of what is "real" in the story, as characters are impacted by mind-bending magic and substances. You won't really know where you are headed for most of the story. If you are looking for a book where you can just kind of turn your brain off and read...this is not for you. It is complex and layered, and you really have to be paying attention to avoid getting lost in the chaos - much like the characters themselves must do.
If you love dark academia, cerebral storytelling, mystery, magic, and unapologetically messy characters that are just trying to find their place in a world falling apart around them, then I recommend you give Prima Materia: On Matter and Decay a read.
I received an early copy of this book for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
This book is chaotic, cerebral, dark, and mind-bending...and I absolutely loved it. It is almost experimental in nature with the way it jumps from perspective to perspective, with each chapter being flashes of scenes that start to weave together over the course of the book. While this does not work for a lot of stories, it worked perfectly for the events that transpire in On Matter and Decay. It leaves you barely holding on to a thread of what is "real" in the story, as characters are impacted by mind-bending magic and substances. You won't really know where you are headed for most of the story. If you are looking for a book where you can just kind of turn your brain off and read...this is not for you. It is complex and layered, and you really have to be paying attention to avoid getting lost in the chaos - much like the characters themselves must do.
If you love dark academia, cerebral storytelling, mystery, magic, and unapologetically messy characters that are just trying to find their place in a world falling apart around them, then I recommend you give Prima Materia: On Matter and Decay a read.
I received an early copy of this book for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
October 31, 2025
I received an ARC copy of the book and have read through it twice. According to the author and what I've seen from some preview pics, there's already been some suggested edits and changes from when I last read it. I will be updating this review after reading the released copy.
It starts a bit slow, but starts to hook you in a bit later with the relationships between the Morgenstern siblings and even more so once the Academy is introduced. Overall, it is a good book that takes a moment to become enjoyable. Especially if you enjoy gritty, dark fantasy set in perpetual rain with dashes of horror and gore and a magic system that'll twist realities leaving you wondering what's happening next. At the time of reading the ARC copy, I gave it a 6½ - 7/10 before edits. It is a good start to the series and I look forward to the next installment to see what happens next on Niko and Killian's journey.
It starts a bit slow, but starts to hook you in a bit later with the relationships between the Morgenstern siblings and even more so once the Academy is introduced. Overall, it is a good book that takes a moment to become enjoyable. Especially if you enjoy gritty, dark fantasy set in perpetual rain with dashes of horror and gore and a magic system that'll twist realities leaving you wondering what's happening next. At the time of reading the ARC copy, I gave it a 6½ - 7/10 before edits. It is a good start to the series and I look forward to the next installment to see what happens next on Niko and Killian's journey.
November 2, 2025
This is one of those stories you have to pay attention to, and even then it’s still weird, but in the best way. It’s wild and mysterious and reality bending, and the imagery is incredible, which makes the weird things feel really, well, real. The only book I can think of to compare this to is Vita Nostra, and if you liked that, you’ll almost certainly like this.
I feel like I can’t say much about this without it being spoilery, so I’ll keep it short. One thing I do want to note is there’s some sexual content that is described in detail, but I wouldn’t call it spicy based on the way it’s written. I don’t feel it takes anything away from the experience, but figured I’d mention it for those who might feel differently than I do. Overall I quite enjoyed this, and I definitely want to do a reread before the sequel.
Thanks very much to Lance for this ARC. I’ll be on the lookout for the book 2 announcement!
I feel like I can’t say much about this without it being spoilery, so I’ll keep it short. One thing I do want to note is there’s some sexual content that is described in detail, but I wouldn’t call it spicy based on the way it’s written. I don’t feel it takes anything away from the experience, but figured I’d mention it for those who might feel differently than I do. Overall I quite enjoyed this, and I definitely want to do a reread before the sequel.
Thanks very much to Lance for this ARC. I’ll be on the lookout for the book 2 announcement!
April 24, 2026
I was fortunate enough to receive an ARC for this book
First and foremost, On Matter and Decay is definitely not a book for everyone. The pace flip flops between rapid and slow, and the frequent POV changes constantly keep you on your toes. It's not an easy read, in both content and style, as it's the type of story that you need to be in the right state of mind and focus for.
What fit perfectly within a shady atmosphere was the large shady cast, all of which were well-written with three-dimensional development and their own individual agendas. None of the POV characters, no matter how minor their role might have been, lacked purpose.
A bit tricky to follow along at times, but once you find yourself sucked in the pages pass like its nothing. I'll certainly be tuned in for the sequel
First and foremost, On Matter and Decay is definitely not a book for everyone. The pace flip flops between rapid and slow, and the frequent POV changes constantly keep you on your toes. It's not an easy read, in both content and style, as it's the type of story that you need to be in the right state of mind and focus for.
What fit perfectly within a shady atmosphere was the large shady cast, all of which were well-written with three-dimensional development and their own individual agendas. None of the POV characters, no matter how minor their role might have been, lacked purpose.
A bit tricky to follow along at times, but once you find yourself sucked in the pages pass like its nothing. I'll certainly be tuned in for the sequel
October 11, 2025
Prima Materia: On Matter and Decay (1st book) by Lance W. Bones. This book is a gothic fantasy with romanic undertones. I read this book in an ARC. This book was very intense and very complex. lts of world building happening as it is a new debut series. I found this book very hard to read and understand. I think the plot and concept was very good and I would recommend reading it if you’re into these types of novels. I’m excited to finish the series. This book also has mentions of gore and violence. The male main characters are also LGBTQIA+.
October 31, 2025
ARC review
3.75 🌟
A dark academy gothic fantasy with family and political intrigues and some spicy. At first is a bit dense and difficult to understand but as it develops it becames incredible.
Love how the alchemy concepts appear (the philosopher's stone, the prima materia per se, dimensional treavelling, etc) and the main plot. It's a good first part to establish the world building. Looking forward to seeing Niko and Kilian paths, and also Sand and Orlando as well.
3.75 🌟
A dark academy gothic fantasy with family and political intrigues and some spicy. At first is a bit dense and difficult to understand but as it develops it becames incredible.
Love how the alchemy concepts appear (the philosopher's stone, the prima materia per se, dimensional treavelling, etc) and the main plot. It's a good first part to establish the world building. Looking forward to seeing Niko and Kilian paths, and also Sand and Orlando as well.
May 14, 2026
I really enjoyed this wonderful book.
Killian though seemed younger tan he was . More like a teenager. I enjoyed him a lot.
I loved the whole world of the book.
Like a fantasy.
Jan's was horrible.
I really enjoyed this and I'm really excited for book 2 .
I received this as an earc in exchange for an honest review.
Killian though seemed younger tan he was . More like a teenager. I enjoyed him a lot.
I loved the whole world of the book.
Like a fantasy.
Jan's was horrible.
I really enjoyed this and I'm really excited for book 2 .
I received this as an earc in exchange for an honest review.
Displaying 1 - 12 of 12 reviews