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The Final Formula #3.5
The Heir of Death
Elysia Mallory has never embraced her magic, not when doing so comes at the price of her sanity. Her family is cursed with bizarre necromantic gifts that have driven each recipient mad, and she doesn’t want to be another dead branch on the family tree. But when Elysia learns that an ancestor is still in the mortal world and using his rare gift to possess the Deacon, the leader of the necromancer community, she decides it’s time to take control of the power she was given. Will her gift give her the ability to right a wrong centuries in the making? Or will she become another puppet for him to control? (The Heir of Death is a 53,000-word novella.)
209 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 22, 2015
26 people are currently reading
138 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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May 24, 2015Uploaded everywhere! Print book coming soon.
June 30, 2020
Book 39 complete.
May 25, 2015
Becca Andre's storytelling genius continues in The Heir of Death. In this book, Elysia, Doug and Neil are competing against each other for the title of Deacon in the Nelson necromancer family—in reality, it is an opportunity to be be possessed and controlled by Alexander. James, determined to protect Elysia, find himself in some very sticky spots. Ian and, to a lesser degree, Addie also feature.
As I read this book I just had to marvel at the complexity of the plot Andre is weaving for us. Every time I think I have put it altogether, she adds another layer of mystery and necromantic lore to her already sparkling story. Brilliant.
But no matter how much complexity, the story would be meaningless without great characters. Elysia continues to charm, add her to James, and the chemistry is magical. Ian was his usual wonderful self. Neil, just what we've come to expect. The real surprise for me though, was Doug. Now he has certainly bored a place into my heart. I hope Becca has a HEA in mind for him—he deserves it . And, spoilers aside, I could think of a pretty good candidate for that . . .
All told, an excellent read. Can't wait for the next one.
As I read this book I just had to marvel at the complexity of the plot Andre is weaving for us. Every time I think I have put it altogether, she adds another layer of mystery and necromantic lore to her already sparkling story. Brilliant.
But no matter how much complexity, the story would be meaningless without great characters. Elysia continues to charm, add her to James, and the chemistry is magical. Ian was his usual wonderful self. Neil, just what we've come to expect. The real surprise for me though, was Doug. Now he has certainly bored a place into my heart. I hope Becca has a HEA in mind for him—he deserves it . And, spoilers aside, I could think of a pretty good candidate for that . . .
All told, an excellent read. Can't wait for the next one.
May 25, 2015
I love Elysia and James! Their bond grows stronger as does the realization their feelings are genuine, not a product of the connection created when Elysia soul bound James. The villains they are up against are seriously nasty types who will do anything to achieve their desires. Ian's twin brother, Alexander, is brilliant but quite mad and he is assisted by Neil, the alchemist who is Addie's nemesis. James and Elysia strive to help her ex-lover, Doug, who was raised to believe he would the Deacon, leader of the necromancer community.
I devoured this novella because I couldn't wait to find out what happened next. This story is fast paced and full of surprises. Addie, Ian and Rowan all make appearances along with Era, the air element. If you haven't read the other books in this series, I recommend starting with The Final Formula and proceeding from there. It won't be a hardship because all of the books and novellas are excellent reads. All of Becca Andre's book are well written and well edited too.
I devoured this novella because I couldn't wait to find out what happened next. This story is fast paced and full of surprises. Addie, Ian and Rowan all make appearances along with Era, the air element. If you haven't read the other books in this series, I recommend starting with The Final Formula and proceeding from there. It won't be a hardship because all of the books and novellas are excellent reads. All of Becca Andre's book are well written and well edited too.
July 27, 2017
Alchemists, Necromancer's and a Grim, Oh! My...
This is an amazingly written book. Again, this novella is from the POV's of Elysia and James. It takes place at the end of book 3, so it sets up what will come in book 4. It is action packed, with a twist or two, and the odd surprise. James will do just about anything for Elysia, even follow her into a den of evil necromancers.
I thoroughly enjoyed reading this novella, in fact, this series rocks. The subject of necromancers and alchemists is a new genre for me, and Becca Andre has not disappointed. She is an amazing writer, and her characters are well thought out. She describes her world with such ease and clarity, which makes her works flow effortlessly. You won't be disappointed.
This is an amazingly written book. Again, this novella is from the POV's of Elysia and James. It takes place at the end of book 3, so it sets up what will come in book 4. It is action packed, with a twist or two, and the odd surprise. James will do just about anything for Elysia, even follow her into a den of evil necromancers.
I thoroughly enjoyed reading this novella, in fact, this series rocks. The subject of necromancers and alchemists is a new genre for me, and Becca Andre has not disappointed. She is an amazing writer, and her characters are well thought out. She describes her world with such ease and clarity, which makes her works flow effortlessly. You won't be disappointed.
June 6, 2019
Another amazing adventure!
Love this world of necromancers and alchemists. This half novel is from James’s and Elysia’s POVs. So many fun things that can be done in this world of old and new magic. I can’t keep them straight most of the time. Like how all the different kinds of bonds work. And how all these things with the souls work. But I love all the characters so much that I am willing to go along with the ride and just hope that it all makes sense in the end.
I just love this world too much!
Reader Rated for ages 15+ for moderate violence, mild language, and mild sensuality.
Love this world of necromancers and alchemists. This half novel is from James’s and Elysia’s POVs. So many fun things that can be done in this world of old and new magic. I can’t keep them straight most of the time. Like how all the different kinds of bonds work. And how all these things with the souls work. But I love all the characters so much that I am willing to go along with the ride and just hope that it all makes sense in the end.
I just love this world too much!
Reader Rated for ages 15+ for moderate violence, mild language, and mild sensuality.
April 1, 2018
Awesome story! This a story where a bunch of people try to eliminate an evil person/ dead one. Doug to save his father and Elysia to save many. Lots of action and eye opening twists. Elysia learns more than she would rather she hadn’t but look forward to solutions. James and her have lots of things to work out in order to be together. Read and enjoy as I recommend this book!
February 28, 2020
Flipping awesome
Just when you think things are never going to change, BAM, you’re hit between the eyes with another creeper. By now I thought I would get tired of these characters and story line but I can’t get enough!! I have to know what happens!!!
Just when you think things are never going to change, BAM, you’re hit between the eyes with another creeper. By now I thought I would get tired of these characters and story line but I can’t get enough!! I have to know what happens!!!
October 18, 2019
Really hoping for happy endings all around at this point...
February 8, 2020
HOLY SHIT
February 19, 2020
And the mystery remains
I prefer the Ely and James couple. And now I'm more curious what Ian looks like. Hurrah for identical twins.
I prefer the Ely and James couple. And now I'm more curious what Ian looks like. Hurrah for identical twins.
September 12, 2020
Enthralling as always
I enjoy more abs more of the big picture with thus set of novels. the build up is forever exceeding my own expectations
I enjoy more abs more of the big picture with thus set of novels. the build up is forever exceeding my own expectations
March 16, 2017
Love these books so much!
So far every book in this series locks me in from the beginning to the end! Think I'll go find the next one!
So far every book in this series locks me in from the beginning to the end! Think I'll go find the next one!
February 16, 2016
Upper 3s, but I’ll round up to 4.0 because I love this series so much. Heir of Death was a little confusing at times, and it didn’t feature as much humor as the previous books, but it was still a very entertaining read with a lot of mystery and suspense.
Plot:
Elysia tries to use her gifts to become Deacon and put an end to Alexander’s and Neil’s evil schemes.
Characters:
Elysia (who we know is a distant relative of Ian’s) continues to learn about her family history, Alexander and Ian’s past, and the curse Ian placed on her family. She also continues to learn more and more about the gifts she’s given, and she does her best not to abuse those powers. Even though she has so much on her shoulders, she takes it all in stride and handles everything very bravely. The only thing she doesn’t handle well is Ian’s refusal to teach her some aspects of her gifts, even when he tells her the reason he doesn’t want her to learn is because he doesn’t want to jeopardize her safety.
James is exactly as you remember … hot, sweet, and modest. This time around he’s also very protective, as he and Elysia are growing closer because of the bond they established.
The most changed character seems to be Doug, who was untrustworthy in previous books, but now seems to be trying to do what’s best for magic (and for those he cares about) instead of just pleasing his relatives. In this novella, we get to see a little more of Doug’s personality, too, especially his sense of humor (which was unexpected).
The other major characters here are Alexander, Xander and Neil, all of whom are extremely evil and have no redeeming qualities. We do catch up with Addie (who is still recovering from Gavin’s attack), Roland, Ian, and Era, but we only get minor details, as the story really doesn’t focus on any of them.
Writing:
The Heir of Death was pretty well edited. I mentioned before that there wasn’t as much humor, but there is still a ton of suspense. There is also a little bit of language and a small amount of violence. I’d probably rate it somewhere around a PG or a PG-13.
The Bottom Line:
I’m not really a fan of novellas because they usually leave me wanting more. I’m actually glad I read this one though. It had been a while since I read The Alchemist’s Flame, so I had pretty much forgotten a lot of the details. Heir of Death served as a reminder, while at the same time getting me ready for the series’ finale, The Catalyst of Corruption.
Plot:
Elysia tries to use her gifts to become Deacon and put an end to Alexander’s and Neil’s evil schemes.
Characters:
Elysia (who we know is a distant relative of Ian’s) continues to learn about her family history, Alexander and Ian’s past, and the curse Ian placed on her family. She also continues to learn more and more about the gifts she’s given, and she does her best not to abuse those powers. Even though she has so much on her shoulders, she takes it all in stride and handles everything very bravely. The only thing she doesn’t handle well is Ian’s refusal to teach her some aspects of her gifts, even when he tells her the reason he doesn’t want her to learn is because he doesn’t want to jeopardize her safety.
James is exactly as you remember … hot, sweet, and modest. This time around he’s also very protective, as he and Elysia are growing closer because of the bond they established.
The most changed character seems to be Doug, who was untrustworthy in previous books, but now seems to be trying to do what’s best for magic (and for those he cares about) instead of just pleasing his relatives. In this novella, we get to see a little more of Doug’s personality, too, especially his sense of humor (which was unexpected).
The other major characters here are Alexander, Xander and Neil, all of whom are extremely evil and have no redeeming qualities. We do catch up with Addie (who is still recovering from Gavin’s attack), Roland, Ian, and Era, but we only get minor details, as the story really doesn’t focus on any of them.
Writing:
The Heir of Death was pretty well edited. I mentioned before that there wasn’t as much humor, but there is still a ton of suspense. There is also a little bit of language and a small amount of violence. I’d probably rate it somewhere around a PG or a PG-13.
The Bottom Line:
I’m not really a fan of novellas because they usually leave me wanting more. I’m actually glad I read this one though. It had been a while since I read The Alchemist’s Flame, so I had pretty much forgotten a lot of the details. Heir of Death served as a reminder, while at the same time getting me ready for the series’ finale, The Catalyst of Corruption.
June 21, 2015
You need to read all the other books in the series first because otherwise this book won't make any sense, but its very very important in the development of the whole story. This part of the story is told from the point of two minor characters who are pivotal to the unfolding tale. If you decide to skip this one and read the next book in the series you'll feel like you've been locked in a crypt with a crowd of ravenous zombies. I was on the edge the whole book. I had no idea how she was going to resolve endless complications all of which move the story forward and all of which could and may end in disaster. For those reading the series who adore Addie and Rowan - they're barely involved in the story. You have to be able to emotionally invest in minor characters who you may or may not have liked. The Heir of Death is Doug Nelson (who is the man on the cover - as noted by the author on her website). Well written! Andre can hold and increase tension with the best. I now await the next book in the series!!!
July 19, 2015
I was very disappointed throughout this book.
When Elysia was introduced, I thought she'd add an interesting new dynamic to the gang. She's barely even interacted with them, instead becoming immersed in the much less captivating world of necromancers.
Why is this a bad thing? Well, first, the necromancers. Crazy, powerful, ambitious, obsessed with lineage, manipulative... that's all of them. They virtually all have the same personality, from the centuries-old long-dead to the youngest of the bunch.
But it's their manipulative nature that really kills it. Their ability to convince, force, coerce, control, put under compulsion... it's used as a plot point too many times. Every single conflict in the book revolves around one of the heroes being controlled by a bad guy.
I hope in the next book we see more elements, more magic, more alchemy, more society. I love Ely, but I don't feel like the necromantic world is truly where she belongs. She could so some great work with Addie, Rowan and the gang. Make it happen, Becca!
When Elysia was introduced, I thought she'd add an interesting new dynamic to the gang. She's barely even interacted with them, instead becoming immersed in the much less captivating world of necromancers.
Why is this a bad thing? Well, first, the necromancers. Crazy, powerful, ambitious, obsessed with lineage, manipulative... that's all of them. They virtually all have the same personality, from the centuries-old long-dead to the youngest of the bunch.
But it's their manipulative nature that really kills it. Their ability to convince, force, coerce, control, put under compulsion... it's used as a plot point too many times. Every single conflict in the book revolves around one of the heroes being controlled by a bad guy.
I hope in the next book we see more elements, more magic, more alchemy, more society. I love Ely, but I don't feel like the necromantic world is truly where she belongs. She could so some great work with Addie, Rowan and the gang. Make it happen, Becca!
May 26, 2015
Another great installment to the Final Formula series! I pretty much buy all of these books the instant they come out and am never disappointed.
This novella had a sort of Comedy of Errors quality at times for me. Almost all of the characters are alchemists, necromancers, dead, or some combination of the three. And pretty much all of them have the ability to control, possess, or incapacitate the others using necromancy, potions, or magic. Add in the fact that several of the characters can teleport, and complete madness ensues.
The only aspect of the story that frustrated me was an almost complete lack of progress by our heroes in terms of the overall story arc. I'm hoping in the next book they are able to lay down the law and actually get one over on at least one of the villains.
This novella had a sort of Comedy of Errors quality at times for me. Almost all of the characters are alchemists, necromancers, dead, or some combination of the three. And pretty much all of them have the ability to control, possess, or incapacitate the others using necromancy, potions, or magic. Add in the fact that several of the characters can teleport, and complete madness ensues.
The only aspect of the story that frustrated me was an almost complete lack of progress by our heroes in terms of the overall story arc. I'm hoping in the next book they are able to lay down the law and actually get one over on at least one of the villains.
February 9, 2017
Yet more fun
I've been slightly obsessed with these books although I'm not sure why. This is a good point between the 2nd and 3rd books and I strongly suggest reading this before 3rd as I felt a little out of things when I started that book before this one.
I've been slightly obsessed with these books although I'm not sure why. This is a good point between the 2nd and 3rd books and I strongly suggest reading this before 3rd as I felt a little out of things when I started that book before this one.
December 24, 2016
*Tried my best to avoid any spoilers!!*
Definitely full of action and amazing, unexpected plot twists! Elysia is one of my favorite characters and this new story really reaffirmed that. We learn more about her powers, see the ever sexy James get dominant, and of course Ian has a few revelations as well. We learn more about the original Deacon and more is revealed about Doug and who he really is as a person. The chemistry between James and Elysia is so well done, and I die a little each time I read a sweet scene. The pace is fast and the action is done perfectly. The book didn't drag at any point and I was always on the edge of my seat waiting to see what happened next. I could barely put it down! Easily my favorite book so far! Well done, Ms. Andre!!
Definitely full of action and amazing, unexpected plot twists! Elysia is one of my favorite characters and this new story really reaffirmed that. We learn more about her powers, see the ever sexy James get dominant, and of course Ian has a few revelations as well. We learn more about the original Deacon and more is revealed about Doug and who he really is as a person. The chemistry between James and Elysia is so well done, and I die a little each time I read a sweet scene. The pace is fast and the action is done perfectly. The book didn't drag at any point and I was always on the edge of my seat waiting to see what happened next. I could barely put it down! Easily my favorite book so far! Well done, Ms. Andre!!
April 18, 2016
I love these novellas, though I do think that the could also just be part of the next book. It is a way of having the concentration on some of the other characters and getting to know them or even introducing new ones. The author does not let you down when it comes to her twists and turns in the arch of the story or even in the characters. There are times you never know quite which line of the fence some of them they are on since they tend to go back and forth. Which makes for a better story.
So my feeling has not changed in the least with this author. Her books take you into this world and you become part of the path that they each follow. Enjoy!!
So my feeling has not changed in the least with this author. Her books take you into this world and you become part of the path that they each follow. Enjoy!!
May 25, 2015
The trouble with these books are that they are just that little bit longer than a novella so you get really into the story and then it ends ...
This was so much more than a novella, Elysia and James and Doug and Neil and Alexander dominate this story as Ely and James try to find Alexander's daughter's body/litch. There's Making and potions and crypts and Grims galore.
This is one of the few series where I recall each of the characters from book to book, a fantastic addition and many thanks to Becca for uploading the day I went on holiday.
This was so much more than a novella, Elysia and James and Doug and Neil and Alexander dominate this story as Ely and James try to find Alexander's daughter's body/litch. There's Making and potions and crypts and Grims galore.
This is one of the few series where I recall each of the characters from book to book, a fantastic addition and many thanks to Becca for uploading the day I went on holiday.
February 11, 2016
Another great chapter in the Final Formula Series!
Becca Andre packs more into 24 hours in her world of the Final Formula than most epic fantasy can boast of in an entire series! This isn't a stand alone story, and I recommend the entire series wholeheartedly. Pick up a sample of the Final Formula and you will be hooked. Very well written urban paranormal fantasy, and these are a very unique tales indeed. I've never read anything quite like this blending of elements in a fantasy. Always leaves you sorry to see the last page and wanting more!
Becca Andre packs more into 24 hours in her world of the Final Formula than most epic fantasy can boast of in an entire series! This isn't a stand alone story, and I recommend the entire series wholeheartedly. Pick up a sample of the Final Formula and you will be hooked. Very well written urban paranormal fantasy, and these are a very unique tales indeed. I've never read anything quite like this blending of elements in a fantasy. Always leaves you sorry to see the last page and wanting more!
December 26, 2016
Becca seamlessly integrates multiple points of view and plot lines into this series through novellas, novels, and picking the right narrator. Her first person point of view flows well and draws you in immersing you deep within the story. Necromancy, alchemy, Old and New magic are integrated in a world that never feels too much is going on - even though there is a lot of complexity to the plot. You always want more from Becca's talent. I will mourn the day the series ends.
June 2, 2021
A plus to this series is every book's events happen within 1-2 days with so much action it's ridiculous. A negative to this series is every book's events happen within 1-2 days with so much action it's ridiculous.
So, yes. Totally enjoying it. Always twists, lots of crazy action, and MORE bad guys!? But I think I'm going to take a breather before I tackle the last few books, so I can really savor the revelations that are about to be made.
So, yes. Totally enjoying it. Always twists, lots of crazy action, and MORE bad guys!? But I think I'm going to take a breather before I tackle the last few books, so I can really savor the revelations that are about to be made.
November 4, 2015
Love this series although I admit I sometimes have a hard time keeping track of the characters and their special abilities. Such an interesting premise and the technical details are amazing. The idea of a chemical that can restore life has long been bandied about but here, in this series, the Author makes it seem possible.
May 30, 2015
always a pleasure
Good book. Not sure if I wanted that much a story about Elysia. I was also very disappointed with the lack of a resolution. Of course, you know the story will continue, but why read a book to the end to be back where you started? And to not get much Rowan and Addie? Criminal.
Good book. Not sure if I wanted that much a story about Elysia. I was also very disappointed with the lack of a resolution. Of course, you know the story will continue, but why read a book to the end to be back where you started? And to not get much Rowan and Addie? Criminal.
January 5, 2017
I discovered this series from one of those book suggestion emails and it sounded interesting. Well I ended up devouring this series in no time, I love the characters, the plot and fast pace. I can't say enough good things about these books, you need to read them all now!
August 18, 2015
This book kept me on the edge of my seat. I hope the eventual resolution is as good as the ongoing story has been.
November 9, 2015
Fun novella.
June 20, 2024
The best of the novellas in this series so far, and the most relevant to the on going main plot line.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 30 reviews