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The Final Formula #3
The Alchemist's Flame
Now that the local hospital is using her burn salve, master alchemist Addie Daulton has become a celebrity. The positive press will go a long way in helping her redeem alchemy’s reputation, but Addie wishes the media would stop calling her the Flame Lord’s alchemist. She doesn’t need his sanction to validate her skills. Besides, having the name of the city’s premier Element tied to hers makes it hard to carry out her clandestine activities—like spying on the leader of the necromancer community. If she’s not careful, she could kick off a war between Old Magic and New. The risk proves worth it when she discovers that her former colleague and current nemesis, Neil Dunstan, is working with the Deacon himself. If that wasn’t bad enough, she learns that Neil has resurrected a grim and made it his own. A grim that once destroyed a family of Elements. And this month, every Element in the world is gathering right here in Cincinnati. With the date of the gathering fast approaching, Addie must figure out what Neil plans to do and stop him, or Old Magic will win the war before it even begins.
402 pages, Paperback
First published February 8, 2015
38 people are currently reading
192 people want to read
About the author
Becca Andre
29 books242 followersBecca Andre lives in southern Ohio with her husband, two children, and an elderly Jack Russell Terrier. A love of science and math (yes, she’s weird like that), led to a career as a chemist where she blows things up far more infrequently than you’d expect. Other interests include: chocolate, hard rock, and slaying things on the Xbox. She also finds writing about herself in third person a bit strange.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 58 reviews
April 6, 2015
This is one of those few times I loved the first book, had high hopes for the rest of the series only to have it fall flat on its face. *sigh*
After the Sookie Stackhouse/TrueBlood series, other contemporary paranormal book series sprouted up like mushrooms. Some good, many bad. Most of them like their predecessor, the sequels became stale and repetitive after the 3rd or 4th volume. This one started to spoil at the 2nd one.
I thought the initial premise held a lot of promise. Unfortunately, the world building remained shallow and uneven. Amelia "Abbie" Daulton started out as a strong female protagonist, and I really like James, her grim/hellhound sidekick & Ian, the undead alchemist/necromancer. Author Becca Andre never fleshes them out (pun intended). I was hoping to see more clues of Amelia's forgotten dark past. Instead she runs pell mell from one peril to another, quickly creating concoctions then hiding them in her bosom. There's a lot of annoying side commentary and dialogue, repetitive situations pulled straight out of cut scenes from The Walking Dead or Supernatural. And the once hot romance between Abbie and Rowan became forced and uber melodramatic. Oh no! Rowan's powers are going haywire because of her! Bah! Who cares!
After the Sookie Stackhouse/TrueBlood series, other contemporary paranormal book series sprouted up like mushrooms. Some good, many bad. Most of them like their predecessor, the sequels became stale and repetitive after the 3rd or 4th volume. This one started to spoil at the 2nd one.
I thought the initial premise held a lot of promise. Unfortunately, the world building remained shallow and uneven. Amelia "Abbie" Daulton started out as a strong female protagonist, and I really like James, her grim/hellhound sidekick & Ian, the undead alchemist/necromancer. Author Becca Andre never fleshes them out (pun intended). I was hoping to see more clues of Amelia's forgotten dark past. Instead she runs pell mell from one peril to another, quickly creating concoctions then hiding them in her bosom. There's a lot of annoying side commentary and dialogue, repetitive situations pulled straight out of cut scenes from The Walking Dead or Supernatural. And the once hot romance between Abbie and Rowan became forced and uber melodramatic. Oh no! Rowan's powers are going haywire because of her! Bah! Who cares!
April 5, 2017
GOOD !!
February 25, 2015
The Alchemist's Flame is another fun, action packed adventure with Addie. I loved the urban fantasy world that Becca Andre has created. Throughout each book, she slowly reveals one more layer of the world. The pacing is great. I never want to stop reading, and the dialogue keeps you laughing while you read. Love this series!
September 29, 2015
Enjoyed the continuing story
February 16, 2016
4.5. The Final Formula books are so fun and easy to read!
Plot:
At first, things were starting to look up again for Addie. Her burn salve was working better than ever, she’s rebuilding her trust in Ian, and (perhaps most importantly) Rowan is no longer shunning her. Then everything kind of goes to pot. She learns that Neil is planning something big, Gavin (in Brian’s body) is no longer captive in the world of the dead, and Rowan is losing control of his powers. And, as you would expect, she takes on the burden of alchemically righting all of these wrongs.
Characters:
I want to not like Addie because she’s so sarcastic, but I just can’t help myself. I’ve mentioned this before, but one of my favorite things about her is that even though she is incredibly determined, she also shows that she’s vulnerable. Somehow, those moments of vulnerability only seem to strengthen her resolve. She’s also starting to realize just how strongly she feels for Rowan. Rowan, of course, is still bossy and overprotective, but now he at least admits it’s because he cares so much for Addie. There was a lot more playfulness between the two, and it was really nice to see a less serious side of Rowan.
Elysia, who we met in FF2.5, The Necromancer’s Betrayal, plays a pretty big role in Alchemist’s Flame. Elysia is a distant relative of Ian’s, so we are learning a lot more about their family history. (Some of it is SUPER intriguing.) We are also getting to see how her relationship with James is developing and how everyone (especially Ian) reacts to it.
Rowan’s fellow elementals—Cora, Donovan, and Era return—and because there is a huge Elemental convention we get to meet some of the other Elements. Of course, all of them are endangered because of Neil’s plans and Gavin’s presence. At least this time around, Doug seems like he’s trying to do what’s right instead of just going along with Neil and Xander.
Writing:
As usual, the editing is spot on, and because Addie is always up to something, there is a ton of suspense. If I had to give the book a rating, I would probably say it was a mild R. There is some language (including the f-bomb). There are also sexual situations, but they are not graphic, and at this point it wouldn’t matter if they were because we are so desperate for Addie and Rowan to get together.
The Bottom Line:
I really liked The Alchemist’s Flame. For some reason, I was thinking it was the last book in the series, so when I got about 85% of the way through I starting panicking. I was almost disappointed (because I so wanted everything tied up in a neat little bow) until I realized that I get to read more about everyone. I can’t wait for the next one.
Plot:
At first, things were starting to look up again for Addie. Her burn salve was working better than ever, she’s rebuilding her trust in Ian, and (perhaps most importantly) Rowan is no longer shunning her. Then everything kind of goes to pot. She learns that Neil is planning something big, Gavin (in Brian’s body) is no longer captive in the world of the dead, and Rowan is losing control of his powers. And, as you would expect, she takes on the burden of alchemically righting all of these wrongs.
Characters:
I want to not like Addie because she’s so sarcastic, but I just can’t help myself. I’ve mentioned this before, but one of my favorite things about her is that even though she is incredibly determined, she also shows that she’s vulnerable. Somehow, those moments of vulnerability only seem to strengthen her resolve. She’s also starting to realize just how strongly she feels for Rowan. Rowan, of course, is still bossy and overprotective, but now he at least admits it’s because he cares so much for Addie. There was a lot more playfulness between the two, and it was really nice to see a less serious side of Rowan.
Elysia, who we met in FF2.5, The Necromancer’s Betrayal, plays a pretty big role in Alchemist’s Flame. Elysia is a distant relative of Ian’s, so we are learning a lot more about their family history. (Some of it is SUPER intriguing.) We are also getting to see how her relationship with James is developing and how everyone (especially Ian) reacts to it.
Rowan’s fellow elementals—Cora, Donovan, and Era return—and because there is a huge Elemental convention we get to meet some of the other Elements. Of course, all of them are endangered because of Neil’s plans and Gavin’s presence. At least this time around, Doug seems like he’s trying to do what’s right instead of just going along with Neil and Xander.
Writing:
As usual, the editing is spot on, and because Addie is always up to something, there is a ton of suspense. If I had to give the book a rating, I would probably say it was a mild R. There is some language (including the f-bomb). There are also sexual situations, but they are not graphic, and at this point it wouldn’t matter if they were because we are so desperate for Addie and Rowan to get together.
The Bottom Line:
I really liked The Alchemist’s Flame. For some reason, I was thinking it was the last book in the series, so when I got about 85% of the way through I starting panicking. I was almost disappointed (because I so wanted everything tied up in a neat little bow) until I realized that I get to read more about everyone. I can’t wait for the next one.
February 11, 2015
As a third book in a series you really need to read the other books first (including the short stories) otherwise it won't make sense. That aside, if you've enjoyed the other books you will have to read this one to find out what happens next. I love the characters. I love Andre's magic world and the various types of magical characters. I, a zombie bigot, have become a fan...at least of Andre's zombies and Necromancers...Ian Mallory in particular. Addie is brilliant. The Flame Lord is lovely, but Ian remains my favorite. He gets much more page time which made me happy and I love the unfolding of the story. Pieces of the Addie puzzle are starting to fall into place, but the puzzle remains as of yet unsolved.
My only negative comment would be...I thought this was the final book...so I was expecting everything to get wrapped up and that threw me as I got closer to the end. There must be at least one more book (if not two) in the series because there are so many things that haven't been resolved and we are left hanging (euphemistically) out of a hell-plane portal at the end.
This is a brilliant fast paced story with lots of action, magic, blood, the odd zombie, hell-hounds, lots of Necromancers and of course...fire.
As a bonus there's witty dialogue, numerous threads in the story to unpick and brilliant haunting characters...not to mention the strange urge to visit Cincinnati, Ohio. Now I'm back to waiting for the next book (please let there be one or I'll Make myself and run off to join a Liche Circuss (anything to distract myself from not knowing that happens!).
My only negative comment would be...I thought this was the final book...so I was expecting everything to get wrapped up and that threw me as I got closer to the end. There must be at least one more book (if not two) in the series because there are so many things that haven't been resolved and we are left hanging (euphemistically) out of a hell-plane portal at the end.
This is a brilliant fast paced story with lots of action, magic, blood, the odd zombie, hell-hounds, lots of Necromancers and of course...fire.
As a bonus there's witty dialogue, numerous threads in the story to unpick and brilliant haunting characters...not to mention the strange urge to visit Cincinnati, Ohio. Now I'm back to waiting for the next book (please let there be one or I'll Make myself and run off to join a Liche Circuss (anything to distract myself from not knowing that happens!).
February 11, 2015
Forget Master Alchemist . . .Becca Andre is a Master Storyteller!
Genius, that is the word that springs to mind as I think about this book (and all the others in the series). Becca Andrew has crafted a plot so intricate, a world so believable, and a magic lore so fascinating that I truly stand in awe of her talent. She is anything but Untalented! She has won her place in my heart as my all-time favourite indie author. Pure brilliance.
The book picks up quite quickly after the last in the series, but to make sense of it, you really do need to read the novellas. You won't regret it. Addie, Ian, James, Rowan and Elysia are quickly thrust into the action and from then on its high-octane ride until the very last page. I could not put it down.
There is oodles of character growth, especially for Addie, Rowan and Ian. Even Cora begins to defrost! I just loved the banter as all these very different characters, all with the same, but divergent goals, battle it out to overcome the evil necros. As to be expected, there were some really cool zombie scenes!
What didn't I like? The fact that I now have a long wait until the next book. It will be torture.
I was given this book for an honest review.
Genius, that is the word that springs to mind as I think about this book (and all the others in the series). Becca Andrew has crafted a plot so intricate, a world so believable, and a magic lore so fascinating that I truly stand in awe of her talent. She is anything but Untalented! She has won her place in my heart as my all-time favourite indie author. Pure brilliance.
The book picks up quite quickly after the last in the series, but to make sense of it, you really do need to read the novellas. You won't regret it. Addie, Ian, James, Rowan and Elysia are quickly thrust into the action and from then on its high-octane ride until the very last page. I could not put it down.
There is oodles of character growth, especially for Addie, Rowan and Ian. Even Cora begins to defrost! I just loved the banter as all these very different characters, all with the same, but divergent goals, battle it out to overcome the evil necros. As to be expected, there were some really cool zombie scenes!
What didn't I like? The fact that I now have a long wait until the next book. It will be torture.
I was given this book for an honest review.
February 12, 2015
This series has turned into one of my favorites. I love Addie! She is a refreshingly unique character who is turning out to have a great deal of heart. Her sidekick, James the Grim, is back with his partner in crime, Elysia, as well as Rowan and the other Elements. We learn more about Ian and his long lost family in this book. Necromancers, both evil and good, play a big role too.
Addie's quirky sense of humor and independent spirit are challenged again by the machinations of some very unpleasant types . . . all very entertaining!
Becca's books are very well edited with a nice, tight plot line running through all of them. This adds to the pleasure of reading them. I highly recommend reading the three books and two novellas in the order they were written. Great reads!
Addie's quirky sense of humor and independent spirit are challenged again by the machinations of some very unpleasant types . . . all very entertaining!
Becca's books are very well edited with a nice, tight plot line running through all of them. This adds to the pleasure of reading them. I highly recommend reading the three books and two novellas in the order they were written. Great reads!
October 24, 2016
Addie
This is an excellent book. I love the characters. The storyline is great and cohesive. There is plenty of action and magic. The story involves the love and commitment of friends and family. The bad guy is totally wicked. Becca Andre has done an AwEsOmE job with this series. I hope the series is not done because I want more. I will definitely recommend this to all my friends.
This is an excellent book. I love the characters. The storyline is great and cohesive. There is plenty of action and magic. The story involves the love and commitment of friends and family. The bad guy is totally wicked. Becca Andre has done an AwEsOmE job with this series. I hope the series is not done because I want more. I will definitely recommend this to all my friends.
January 16, 2017
It's so hard to say which characters I'm changing my opinion of most- Ian, Cora, Doug, or Wayland. Elysia and other characters introduced in FF2.5 are seamlessly integrated into the story. There are also new Element characters introduced which put a spin on things. Neil, Xander, and Gavin continue to do their thing with devastating consequences. Each book- and the novellas- continues to reveal more layers and connections.
Read
February 11, 2015Available everywhere ebooks are sold! Print book coming soon.
August 1, 2020
Three books in and I'm finding myself disappointed by this series. Maybe I just read them in too quick succession but I'm too bored with it to continue.
I was hoping that once the world and the magic system was established the explanation chunks would be replaced with action and adventure but it feels like the opposite has happened. It's getting more and more complicated and so way more difficult to keep track of who has what magic powers and what they are capable of and who they are related to.
The plotline from this book is no different than the first two - Neil is still causing havoc but no one cares enough to do anything about it until they are forced into a confrontation. The book ended again with no advancement to this story and no more explanation of Addie's history or how she was involved with Neil.
I find it strange that Addie has no interest in her history and doesn't seem at all concerned that it appeared to be her that blew up the Alchemist building and killed around 40 people. I'm sure it will turn out that it wasn't her at all but Addie believes it was her and has shown no interest in finding out what happened.
I also feel like Rowan's issues with controlling his fire magic were thrown in there just to create some conflict between him and Addie and I don't see the point of it. It just bogs the story down even more.
Three stars because even with all the issues I didn't hate it and I like the characters. I'm just bored with it and can't face reading another book where nothing happens.
I was hoping that once the world and the magic system was established the explanation chunks would be replaced with action and adventure but it feels like the opposite has happened. It's getting more and more complicated and so way more difficult to keep track of who has what magic powers and what they are capable of and who they are related to.
The plotline from this book is no different than the first two - Neil is still causing havoc but no one cares enough to do anything about it until they are forced into a confrontation. The book ended again with no advancement to this story and no more explanation of Addie's history or how she was involved with Neil.
I find it strange that Addie has no interest in her history and doesn't seem at all concerned that it appeared to be her that blew up the Alchemist building and killed around 40 people. I'm sure it will turn out that it wasn't her at all but Addie believes it was her and has shown no interest in finding out what happened.
I also feel like Rowan's issues with controlling his fire magic were thrown in there just to create some conflict between him and Addie and I don't see the point of it. It just bogs the story down even more.
Three stars because even with all the issues I didn't hate it and I like the characters. I'm just bored with it and can't face reading another book where nothing happens.
July 19, 2017
A Truly Exceptional Series
I do love this series, it just keeps getting better and better. In book 3 there are even more twists and turns, and even some surprises. Again, this is a fast paced book, with what seems like continuous action. All the characters are written so believably and the world building is exceptional. Becca Andre certainly has a way with words.
In this book, we are introduced to a few new characters, some of which, I have a feeling, we are going to see more of. Addie, as usual, manages to get herself into some crazy situations. Ian finds out about some of his family, and to top it all off, there is a Ghoul Master flotilla around.
Overall, you will not be disappointed if you pick up this book. It picks up after book 2.5 nicely, so I would recommend reading that before you read book 3. There is minimal cussing, slight sexual innuendo's and the briefest sex scene. All of which is done in really good taste. Can't wait to get my eyes on the next book.
I do love this series, it just keeps getting better and better. In book 3 there are even more twists and turns, and even some surprises. Again, this is a fast paced book, with what seems like continuous action. All the characters are written so believably and the world building is exceptional. Becca Andre certainly has a way with words.
In this book, we are introduced to a few new characters, some of which, I have a feeling, we are going to see more of. Addie, as usual, manages to get herself into some crazy situations. Ian finds out about some of his family, and to top it all off, there is a Ghoul Master flotilla around.
Overall, you will not be disappointed if you pick up this book. It picks up after book 2.5 nicely, so I would recommend reading that before you read book 3. There is minimal cussing, slight sexual innuendo's and the briefest sex scene. All of which is done in really good taste. Can't wait to get my eyes on the next book.
April 1, 2018
Excellent book! There is so much going on in this book and so many story lines and twists! Addie, Rowan, James, Ian, Elysia, Donovan, Cora, Era and even Doug are trying to change many things. Doug wants to help Elysia because he created a problem. So much action, humor, romance. Learn about Ian’s past and his relationship to Elysia . Learn about the Element families and the conference to be taking place. Neil and Xander are up to no good and creating evil. Many characters are learning to get along better but Cory a new one is having problems because he doesn’t want to be a fire element. This book will keep you entertained and engrossed in the story but have a few Kleenex handy as you might need them. I highly recommend this book!
June 11, 2018
#SpoilerWarrior
This story is incredibly complex, with so many plot twists. Sometimes I’m nervous that it will turn out that I’m the bad guy. Who knows who it could be next.
As always, running thoughts:
I feel like a lot has happened between the ending of the last book and this book. I probably should have read the novella.
Okay I feel like I’m missing too much. I’m going to pause and go read the novella.
Okay, nevermind. Pretty sure that the novella isn’t going to catch me up on what is happening with Addie and Roe. Sigh.
Legit life question: why doesn’t she just give him a small amount of X Dust when they want to get down to it? That would take away the flame.
Poor Colby.
Poor Roe.
This story is incredibly complex, with so many plot twists. Sometimes I’m nervous that it will turn out that I’m the bad guy. Who knows who it could be next.
As always, running thoughts:
I feel like a lot has happened between the ending of the last book and this book. I probably should have read the novella.
Okay I feel like I’m missing too much. I’m going to pause and go read the novella.
Okay, nevermind. Pretty sure that the novella isn’t going to catch me up on what is happening with Addie and Roe. Sigh.
Legit life question: why doesn’t she just give him a small amount of X Dust when they want to get down to it? That would take away the flame.
Poor Colby.
Poor Roe.
August 28, 2018
Wow, this book of the series really is full of action. You learn more about the characters and what they are capable of, especially Addie. What is amazing is that she keeps finding out more about herself all of the time and in the end of the book she comes to a very profound realization.
The entire Mallory/Nelson family is very complicated and it seems to get more so with each book. You find that you are not sure which family members are the “good” ones and which are just downright evil. Their family connections and relationships, while it looks at times like it is getting clearer, are actually becoming more convoluted.
The ending leaves some closure but a lot more questions than answers. Looking forward to the next book.
The entire Mallory/Nelson family is very complicated and it seems to get more so with each book. You find that you are not sure which family members are the “good” ones and which are just downright evil. Their family connections and relationships, while it looks at times like it is getting clearer, are actually becoming more convoluted.
The ending leaves some closure but a lot more questions than answers. Looking forward to the next book.
June 1, 2017
This definitely took a turn towards Addie's past, and I'm glad its finally being looked at more closely. I love seeing everyone adjust and still accept her despite all the bad things that happened in the past books. The writing style was great, everything flowed, and it's a new way to look at the Others. It's a world full of things I've known and am constantly surprised about when something happens. Addie has major character development and she only seems to be getting better, though this one did slow down the pace a bit, if only to better reveal things. Overall satisfying.
May 25, 2017
More action-packed paranormal fun with some good continuing character development. I do get lost in Andre's rules about who (alchemists, Elements, necromancers, lich kings, ghoul masters, hellhounds, etc etc) can do what with their powers and in what specific circumstances, but am able to enjoy the story anyway. I will definitely be continuing with this series.
September 11, 2020
I hate that I can’t put these down
I was later for work because I stayed up all night reading- I love the way the characters are introduced and built up and grown throughout this books - I am loving this series
I was later for work because I stayed up all night reading- I love the way the characters are introduced and built up and grown throughout this books - I am loving this series
May 23, 2017
Smokin' series!
The relationships between the characters is evolving so well, it's hard to stop reading! Love the addition of a magical librarian. On to the next book!
The relationships between the characters is evolving so well, it's hard to stop reading! Love the addition of a magical librarian. On to the next book!
October 22, 2018
Just brilliant.
The series has kept my interest and allowed me to immerse myself.
Becca Andre is a very skilled author and I can't wait to read the rest of Addies story. Xx
The series has kept my interest and allowed me to immerse myself.
Becca Andre is a very skilled author and I can't wait to read the rest of Addies story. Xx
June 2, 2019
Not tired of this yet!
Still super love this series! This world keeps getting deeper and more developed. Love ALL the characters, even the new ones. The chemistry between all of them is amazing.
Still super love this series! This world keeps getting deeper and more developed. Love ALL the characters, even the new ones. The chemistry between all of them is amazing.
October 17, 2019
I continue to love and speed my way through this series. Definitely not a series to pick up in the middle, though; this is one continuous story.
January 31, 2020
Another great read in the Final Formula series.
February 9, 2020
Amazing
Always twists and turns!! Just when you think you know what will happen a new twist is given. I love this series. I don’t want it to ever end.
Always twists and turns!! Just when you think you know what will happen a new twist is given. I love this series. I don’t want it to ever end.
May 23, 2020
I really love this series. It is so unique in hell and magic.
November 8, 2020
Borrowed from library:
Again I was enthralled throughout this story!
Can't wait to get into next book♡
Again I was enthralled throughout this story!
Can't wait to get into next book♡
December 9, 2020
Addicting
I love this series. I've read them more than once. Not sure how I missed leaving a review but here it is.... These books just grip you and won't let go.
I love this series. I've read them more than once. Not sure how I missed leaving a review but here it is.... These books just grip you and won't let go.
June 24, 2021
Interesting story, alchemists, elementals, necromancers, and grims, oh my!
February 19, 2017
The Alchemist's Flame was a big let down for me. I still like the story itself but there were a lot of inconsistencies. At one point James and Elysia find out something they already knew in the previous novella. It wasn't like they were hiding it, they actually acted like they didn't know. Another instance, there was a fire and it wasn't until he guy with the heightened senses turned around that they found out the house was on fire. How is it they couldn't smell it? Last complaint is that there was an awful lot of time for talking or doing things that sent characters away from danger. We know that some shit is about to go down or is going down yet characters had time to pack up or talk? There was also a lot of passive writing which is always a bit of a drag to read. I didn't notice much in the other books. I will continue to the next book. Hoping maybe this one was just rushed and the next one is better.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 58 reviews