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The Alchemists' Council #1
The Alchemists' Council
The first in a phenomenal new fantasy trilogy, where the power of words can change the fate of all dimensions
As a new Initiate with the Alchemists’ Council, Jaden is trained to maintain the elemental balance of the world, while fending off interference by the malevolent Rebel Branch. Bees are disappearing from the pages of the ancient manuscripts in Council dimension and from the outside world, threatening its very existence. Jaden navigates alchemy’s complexities, but the more she learns, the more she begins to question Council practices. Erasure — a procedure designed not only to remove individuals from Council dimension but also from the memories of other alchemists — troubles Jaden, and she uses her ingenuity to remember one of the erased people. In doing so, she realizes the Rebel Branch might not be the enemy she was taught to fight against.
Jaden is caught between her responsibility to the Council and her growing allegiance to the rebels, as the Council finds itself at the brink of war. She is faced with an ethical dilemma involving the free will of all humanity and must decide whether or not she can save the worlds.
As a new Initiate with the Alchemists’ Council, Jaden is trained to maintain the elemental balance of the world, while fending off interference by the malevolent Rebel Branch. Bees are disappearing from the pages of the ancient manuscripts in Council dimension and from the outside world, threatening its very existence. Jaden navigates alchemy’s complexities, but the more she learns, the more she begins to question Council practices. Erasure — a procedure designed not only to remove individuals from Council dimension but also from the memories of other alchemists — troubles Jaden, and she uses her ingenuity to remember one of the erased people. In doing so, she realizes the Rebel Branch might not be the enemy she was taught to fight against.
Jaden is caught between her responsibility to the Council and her growing allegiance to the rebels, as the Council finds itself at the brink of war. She is faced with an ethical dilemma involving the free will of all humanity and must decide whether or not she can save the worlds.
448 pages, Paperback
First published May 10, 2016
12 people are currently reading
1166 people want to read
About the author
Cynthea Masson
9 books64 followersCynthea Masson is a professor in the English department at Vancouver Island University. After completing a Ph.D. in English with a focus on medieval mysticism, she undertook a postdoctoral fellowship involving work with medieval alchemical manuscripts at the British Library. In addition to articles on mysticism and alchemy, many of her publications over the past decade have been in the area of television studies. She is a co-editor of the academic book Reading Joss Whedon (Syracuse University Press, 2014); her fiction includes The Elijah Tree (Rebel Satori, 2009). She lives in British Columbia.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 74 reviews
July 24, 2016
What to say? The Alchemists' Council is unlike any book I've ever read. It's strange and complicated and incredibly odd, but lovely.
First, to describe the premise a bit more in detail: Imagine that all life and existence stems from a powerful stone thing called the Lapis. In another dimension, the Alchemists' Council interprets this Lapis and thus affects the real world via the manuscripts they create. Those manuscripts and the words on them (written in ink created from the Lapis) can control the world! However, there is a Flaw in the Lapis, one that restricts Council control and gives the outside world free will. That Flaw is also the domain and purpose of the rebels, who seek to not only preserve it but to expand it. The plot begins when bees begin to disappear from the manuscripts and from the world, leading the Council to suspect rebel activity. There are several viewpoint characters, but Jaden - a new Initiate into the Council - is the most important, as she strives to unravel the mysteries of the Council, the rebels, and the Lapis.
In short, The Alchemists' Council is about words, academia, bees, free will, ethics, theory, and so much more. It's just so cool. (I forgot to add, the book is also so diverse! Love it.)
The worldbuilding is complicated as hell, as evidenced by that long paragraph explaining only a fraction of the premise and all its plots and problems. The world of the Council is so intricate and rich and immersive, unlike anything I've ever read before. The only quibbles I had with the novel are that there is so much information it sometimes becomes overwhelming (there are info-dumps that could be much more elegant), and that the plot and the world are so complex that I still don't understand some of it, or I'm not entirely convinced of some of it. I'm not sure whether it's one or the other or both at the moment.
Additionally, this is not a book for everyone. It's dense and slow and quiet - there are no huge events until the second half of the novel. It is more focused on the unraveling of secrets and relationships and pasts than it is advancing the plot in conventional, exciting ways. While I like this - I generally like slow books, and books about studying, lmao - I know many people won't.
Nevertheless, The Alchemists' Council left me reeling and disoriented but also awestruck and fascinated, and I really enjoyed it. If any of the above intrigues you, give it a try.
First, to describe the premise a bit more in detail: Imagine that all life and existence stems from a powerful stone thing called the Lapis. In another dimension, the Alchemists' Council interprets this Lapis and thus affects the real world via the manuscripts they create. Those manuscripts and the words on them (written in ink created from the Lapis) can control the world! However, there is a Flaw in the Lapis, one that restricts Council control and gives the outside world free will. That Flaw is also the domain and purpose of the rebels, who seek to not only preserve it but to expand it. The plot begins when bees begin to disappear from the manuscripts and from the world, leading the Council to suspect rebel activity. There are several viewpoint characters, but Jaden - a new Initiate into the Council - is the most important, as she strives to unravel the mysteries of the Council, the rebels, and the Lapis.
In short, The Alchemists' Council is about words, academia, bees, free will, ethics, theory, and so much more. It's just so cool. (I forgot to add, the book is also so diverse! Love it.)
The worldbuilding is complicated as hell, as evidenced by that long paragraph explaining only a fraction of the premise and all its plots and problems. The world of the Council is so intricate and rich and immersive, unlike anything I've ever read before. The only quibbles I had with the novel are that there is so much information it sometimes becomes overwhelming (there are info-dumps that could be much more elegant), and that the plot and the world are so complex that I still don't understand some of it, or I'm not entirely convinced of some of it. I'm not sure whether it's one or the other or both at the moment.
Additionally, this is not a book for everyone. It's dense and slow and quiet - there are no huge events until the second half of the novel. It is more focused on the unraveling of secrets and relationships and pasts than it is advancing the plot in conventional, exciting ways. While I like this - I generally like slow books, and books about studying, lmao - I know many people won't.
Nevertheless, The Alchemists' Council left me reeling and disoriented but also awestruck and fascinated, and I really enjoyed it. If any of the above intrigues you, give it a try.
July 5, 2016
ACTUAL RATING: 4.3/5
MAGIC SYSTEM: I picked up this book on the intrigue of a potentially unique alchemical system; it satisfied, if not surpassed my expectations. Some books make empty promises of vivid a magic system, but this was not the case in The Alchemists' Council. The magic system that was the council was rich and complex with myriad rituals, traditions and world building. There was a fluidity between the different aspects that allowed the alchemical system to make sense. I liked how the rank and status within the council was built upon one's merit; there's not that one main character who is, for reasons unexplained, born with all-powerful magical gifts.
PLOT: The plot was not overly complex or too predictable. Where the plot may seem unoriginal when simply put- a young girl gone to a a secret magical school faced with the an ethical choice that could save, or destroy, the world- it was unique in its own way and the plot surprised me many times.
WHERE IT LACKED: What made me give it four stars was an overall sense of being too one-dimensional. Where there was some mythology and history introduced, I would have enjoyed more historical background to enhance the world building. None of the characters particularly stood out to me as being unique people I could feel attached to. There seemed to be too many instances of information dumping.
OVERALL: Intriguing and unique alchemical system, complex plot, good world building, somewhat flat, but not overly stereotypical characters and a highly recommended read!
MAGIC SYSTEM: I picked up this book on the intrigue of a potentially unique alchemical system; it satisfied, if not surpassed my expectations. Some books make empty promises of vivid a magic system, but this was not the case in The Alchemists' Council. The magic system that was the council was rich and complex with myriad rituals, traditions and world building. There was a fluidity between the different aspects that allowed the alchemical system to make sense. I liked how the rank and status within the council was built upon one's merit; there's not that one main character who is, for reasons unexplained, born with all-powerful magical gifts.
PLOT: The plot was not overly complex or too predictable. Where the plot may seem unoriginal when simply put- a young girl gone to a a secret magical school faced with the an ethical choice that could save, or destroy, the world- it was unique in its own way and the plot surprised me many times.
WHERE IT LACKED: What made me give it four stars was an overall sense of being too one-dimensional. Where there was some mythology and history introduced, I would have enjoyed more historical background to enhance the world building. None of the characters particularly stood out to me as being unique people I could feel attached to. There seemed to be too many instances of information dumping.
OVERALL: Intriguing and unique alchemical system, complex plot, good world building, somewhat flat, but not overly stereotypical characters and a highly recommended read!
February 3, 2016
I was lucky to get an advance copy of this book and very much enjoyed it. Cynthea Masson has created a wonderful fantasy world. The book is intelligent, well written and the story raises some interesting ethical arguements about free will. She has created a community of characters that engaged me and made me care about what was going to happen next...and kept me guessing as to who was on what side. I look forward to finding out what happens in the next installment. I am hooked. Well worth the read!
March 7, 2016
I received an advance reading copy of this book.
What Masson has done here is extraordinary. She has created a fully-realized world (technically, three dimensions, but who's to quibble?) and then peopled it with characters who have hidden motives, ambitions, and agendas - wheels within wheels, so to speak.
The book takes its time in building a complex world and the result is one that reflects Masson's own training as a academic. Words and manuscripts are of paramount importance in this novel which centers on a rigid secret society who has long been charged with maintaining balance in the everyday world. But there are those who don't like balance and think that it would just be easier if humans didn't fool about with messy things like free will. Take that away and then perfection could be achieved. So the book turns a philosophical debate into driving action - are we better for our flaws or should others substitute their judgement for our own in the goal of making us "better"? (Note - as a Joss Whedon fan, I already knew my answer to that one!)
This is an entrancing book, which I highly recommend to everyone who enjoys intricate plotting and compelling characters in a fantasy setting.
What Masson has done here is extraordinary. She has created a fully-realized world (technically, three dimensions, but who's to quibble?) and then peopled it with characters who have hidden motives, ambitions, and agendas - wheels within wheels, so to speak.
The book takes its time in building a complex world and the result is one that reflects Masson's own training as a academic. Words and manuscripts are of paramount importance in this novel which centers on a rigid secret society who has long been charged with maintaining balance in the everyday world. But there are those who don't like balance and think that it would just be easier if humans didn't fool about with messy things like free will. Take that away and then perfection could be achieved. So the book turns a philosophical debate into driving action - are we better for our flaws or should others substitute their judgement for our own in the goal of making us "better"? (Note - as a Joss Whedon fan, I already knew my answer to that one!)
This is an entrancing book, which I highly recommend to everyone who enjoys intricate plotting and compelling characters in a fantasy setting.
January 13, 2016
I was able to receive an advanced reading copy of this book and absolutely loved it! I did find the first couple of chapters to be somewhat slow going (for me), but am so glad I hung in there. The story quickly turned into a can't-put-it-down reading frenzy and more than redeemed itself of my initial perception. I loved following Jaden through her trials and discoveries, and I loved discovering her world through her eyes. The magic and the mystery that continues throughout the book are completely engaging, and I couldn't wait to see where the author was headed. I definitely recommend this book, but some readers may want to exercise some initial patience to allow the story to begin to take off. I guarantee - it's worth it!
June 8, 2020
This book is expert story telling, hands down. I was so thoroughly entertained by every aspect, and I never met a character that didn't engage me or seemed out of place. I am in awe of how well the complexities of the stories were so seamlessly woven in to the story. If you enjoy being pulled into adventures that play with time, dimension, and meaning via delightful, intriguing characters and rich imagery, this - I cannot stress enough - is your book.
February 23, 2016
The Alchemists' Council, by Cynthea Masson
Let me begin by saying that The Alchemists' Council is the bee's knees (more on why that's a pun later). I'll be honest; I was asked to read and review The Alchemists' Council, by my aunt, who is a friend and former colleague of the author. I do not know the author personally, but I was provided with an Advance Reading Copy. That said, I intend to review this book as honestly as possible.
The Alchemists' Council is an imaginative, intelligent fantasy novel, set alternately between the Council dimension and our world. Told from multiple points of view, it is largely the story of Jaden, a Junior Initiate of the Alchemists' Council, who is presented with a choice. To follow the Council blindly, or to question everything she's learned since she arrived in Council Dimension and decide for herself who she can trust.
So, what do alchemists and bees have in common?
I'll be honest. Fantasy isn't exactly my genre. I mostly read steampunk, occasionally horror. I like fast-paced stories with airship battles, daring feats, and suspenseful chase scenes. This book was not that. Instead, Cynthea Masson drew me in to her world through imaginative, utterly unique, and highly detailed world-building, and believable, flawed characters. Indeed, while Council Dimension is immaculate, beautiful, and pristine, the characters that inhabit it are deceptive (Cedar, Sadira, Kalina), self-centered (Laurel), and even cruel (Obeche), which is exactly how I like my characters.
You'rea wizard, Harry an alchemist, Jaden.
It's an intelligently written, character-driven fantasy novel. The Alchemists' Council is Harry Potter for adults. No, you won't be seeing Quidditch within these pages, but still, the similarities are really not so disparate. Harry heads off to Hogwarts each year to study wizardry. He secretly sneaks about in the halls at night to meet with his friends as they look into a possible plot to bring back the Dark Lord. See what I mean?
Admittedly, at its core, Alchemists' Council has a fairly standard fantasy plot, but it's not so simple as that. Every character seems to have their own agenda, and they all have their secrets. Since the plot is driven by characters, this makes for some interesting surprises along the way.
The novel excels particularly at world-building. The rules of alchemy are laid out as early as possible, answering questions such as what can and can't the alchemists do within the opening chapters, and constructing the plot around that. Oh, and (again, spoiler alert) there's much more to alchemy than merely transmuting lead into gold. Speaking of gold, The Alchemists' Council, by Cynthea Masson, definitely merits a gold seal of approval. A gold star? Some sort of gold pun.
Let me begin by saying that The Alchemists' Council is the bee's knees (more on why that's a pun later). I'll be honest; I was asked to read and review The Alchemists' Council, by my aunt, who is a friend and former colleague of the author. I do not know the author personally, but I was provided with an Advance Reading Copy. That said, I intend to review this book as honestly as possible.
The Alchemists' Council is an imaginative, intelligent fantasy novel, set alternately between the Council dimension and our world. Told from multiple points of view, it is largely the story of Jaden, a Junior Initiate of the Alchemists' Council, who is presented with a choice. To follow the Council blindly, or to question everything she's learned since she arrived in Council Dimension and decide for herself who she can trust.
So, what do alchemists and bees have in common?
Bees are disappearing from the pages of the ancient manuscripts in Council dimension and from the outside world, threatening its very existence. Jaden navigates alchemy’s complexities, but the more she learns, the more she begins to question Council practices.
I'll be honest. Fantasy isn't exactly my genre. I mostly read steampunk, occasionally horror. I like fast-paced stories with airship battles, daring feats, and suspenseful chase scenes. This book was not that. Instead, Cynthea Masson drew me in to her world through imaginative, utterly unique, and highly detailed world-building, and believable, flawed characters. Indeed, while Council Dimension is immaculate, beautiful, and pristine, the characters that inhabit it are deceptive (Cedar, Sadira, Kalina), self-centered (Laurel), and even cruel (Obeche), which is exactly how I like my characters.
You're
It's an intelligently written, character-driven fantasy novel. The Alchemists' Council is Harry Potter for adults. No, you won't be seeing Quidditch within these pages, but still, the similarities are really not so disparate. Harry heads off to Hogwarts each year to study wizardry. He secretly sneaks about in the halls at night to meet with his friends as they look into a possible plot to bring back the Dark Lord. See what I mean?
Admittedly, at its core, Alchemists' Council has a fairly standard fantasy plot, but it's not so simple as that. Every character seems to have their own agenda, and they all have their secrets. Since the plot is driven by characters, this makes for some interesting surprises along the way.
The novel excels particularly at world-building. The rules of alchemy are laid out as early as possible, answering questions such as what can and can't the alchemists do within the opening chapters, and constructing the plot around that. Oh, and (again, spoiler alert) there's much more to alchemy than merely transmuting lead into gold. Speaking of gold, The Alchemists' Council, by Cynthea Masson, definitely merits a gold seal of approval. A gold star? Some sort of gold pun.
April 30, 2016
I received an ARC of this book from the publisher at the request of the author, due to personal acquaintance. This does not impact my opinion of the book.
This is a book with Big Ideas and some pretty smart details that I really appreciated, but overall I found the writing style quite dry and wordy, and not to my taste. It took me a long time to finish, and I feel a bit like I've just read 400+ pages of exposition.
There are a lot of characters, including multiple POV characters -- not only Jaden, as the book's official description would lead one to believe -- and they are all on their own unique journeys in the plot, although their personalities and internal thoughts seem largely undifferentiated to me. My favorite parts were in Chapters V and VI, when Arjan (my favorite character) meets his younger self and we learn more about his family background.
I was hoping to like this book more than I did (especially, but not only, because I like Cynthea Masson very much!), but in any case I'm sure that it will find a passionate audience.
This is a book with Big Ideas and some pretty smart details that I really appreciated, but overall I found the writing style quite dry and wordy, and not to my taste. It took me a long time to finish, and I feel a bit like I've just read 400+ pages of exposition.
There are a lot of characters, including multiple POV characters -- not only Jaden, as the book's official description would lead one to believe -- and they are all on their own unique journeys in the plot, although their personalities and internal thoughts seem largely undifferentiated to me. My favorite parts were in Chapters V and VI, when Arjan (my favorite character) meets his younger self and we learn more about his family background.
I was hoping to like this book more than I did (especially, but not only, because I like Cynthea Masson very much!), but in any case I'm sure that it will find a passionate audience.
September 28, 2018
Fair warning, I read this book because I got the second book in the series (The Flaw in the Stone) for free for a fair and unbiased review. Also, I am very stingy with my stars for rating. I believe there should be very few 5 star books in your life.
I found the whole workings of the Alchemist's Council to be very hard to follow. But maybe that was on purpose, as their workings are supposed to be very complex. But it did lead to a state of confusion for me while I read the book. Having said that, the magic and world building in this book are well thought out and have the potential to be very rich. I think there is great potential here.
I also wished the book concentrated more on one main character. Both Jaden (the defacto main character) and Cedar are the primary focus. But I felt I never really got to know either one quite well enough. The story was well written, thought out, and enjoyable to read.
I found the whole workings of the Alchemist's Council to be very hard to follow. But maybe that was on purpose, as their workings are supposed to be very complex. But it did lead to a state of confusion for me while I read the book. Having said that, the magic and world building in this book are well thought out and have the potential to be very rich. I think there is great potential here.
I also wished the book concentrated more on one main character. Both Jaden (the defacto main character) and Cedar are the primary focus. But I felt I never really got to know either one quite well enough. The story was well written, thought out, and enjoyable to read.
June 14, 2020
I'm a bit biased as Cynthea was one of my professors at VIU. Nevertheless, I must give credit where it's due, and Cynthea has definitely written one of the most original fantasy works I've read in awhile.
The world and magic is really well done, and the use of alchemy is refreshing rather than overused. It took me a few chapters to understand the hierarchy within the council, and there were many characters to learn quite quickly, but Cynthea made each of them memorable.
Cynthea will be giving a public lecture and discussing her novel at VIU in Nanaimo, BC on Friday September 30 at 10am. I'm looking forward to hearing her then!
The world and magic is really well done, and the use of alchemy is refreshing rather than overused. It took me a few chapters to understand the hierarchy within the council, and there were many characters to learn quite quickly, but Cynthea made each of them memorable.
Cynthea will be giving a public lecture and discussing her novel at VIU in Nanaimo, BC on Friday September 30 at 10am. I'm looking forward to hearing her then!
January 11, 2016
This is an elegant novel. I don't usually read Fantasy, but was fortunate enough to be sent an advance reader copy. This was a treat - poetic and rich, without being heavy handed. The language and imagery are colourful, compelling and unique. The story is dense and full of magic - it follows Jaden, an initiate into an other-worldly council of alchemists, a place full of secrets and hidden allegiances. What happens in that dimension influences our world. A story of ancient manuscripts, wise scribes, other dimensions, and disappearing bees, amongst much else. Highly recommended.
December 21, 2015
An intelligent and intriguing fantasy/mystery. The ideas in this book haunted me; my mind kept returning to them when I wasn’t reading, turning them over and looking at them from different angles, and wondering where the author would take them. And the writing is simply exquisite!
December 20, 2021
I enjoyed this, but its clearly a cerebral fantasy novel. Canadian author though, didn't see that coming. Listening to the book I was both intrigued and bored. I still look forward to the other 2 books in the series (all 3 books are free with an audible subscription)
June 24, 2017
What did I just read?
October 3, 2019
For full disclosure, I am a former student of Masson, and I have chosen to look at this series as part of (the main focus, really) my MA and PhD research.
That said, this is a wonderful, intelligent, and all-around-lovely novel. It was also a lot of fun to read. There is a ton of well done diversity (and bees!). There is academia (isn't academia in novels always more fun when it's fantasy, too??).
It's not a simple world, Masson's world building and plot is complicated and requires close attention to detail, but the pay off is an immersive, beautifully crafted story.
Occasionally I did find the world building slightly overwhelming, but not any more so than many other fantasy novels that I love (think ASOIAF by GRRM, or A Discovery of Witches by Harkness). It also felt clear to me that we needed the world set up in this way, to be able to dive even deeper in the next two books, which made it easy to accept a tiny bit of what some might call "info dumping" in exchange for more clearly understanding this complex world. That said, it didn't at any point take away from my enjoyment as I read this novel, which is why I didn't remove any 'stars' from my review.
Masson has crafted a world I want to dive into again (and luckily there are two more novels for me to do so!), with diverse and intelligent characters, and a fascinating plot. It's the perfect book to curl up with on a rainy weekend and read... just make sure you cancel your plans, because you won't want to put the book down once you get immersed in it.
That said, this is a wonderful, intelligent, and all-around-lovely novel. It was also a lot of fun to read. There is a ton of well done diversity (and bees!). There is academia (isn't academia in novels always more fun when it's fantasy, too??).
It's not a simple world, Masson's world building and plot is complicated and requires close attention to detail, but the pay off is an immersive, beautifully crafted story.
Occasionally I did find the world building slightly overwhelming, but not any more so than many other fantasy novels that I love (think ASOIAF by GRRM, or A Discovery of Witches by Harkness). It also felt clear to me that we needed the world set up in this way, to be able to dive even deeper in the next two books, which made it easy to accept a tiny bit of what some might call "info dumping" in exchange for more clearly understanding this complex world. That said, it didn't at any point take away from my enjoyment as I read this novel, which is why I didn't remove any 'stars' from my review.
Masson has crafted a world I want to dive into again (and luckily there are two more novels for me to do so!), with diverse and intelligent characters, and a fascinating plot. It's the perfect book to curl up with on a rainy weekend and read... just make sure you cancel your plans, because you won't want to put the book down once you get immersed in it.
August 17, 2016
I knew when I reached the end of this book I’d be sad… sad that I would have to wait for the next installment!
The book totally pulled me into a world that I’m unaccustomed to. The Alchemists’ Council is my first novel dealing with alchemy. Personal life factoid : I studied bio-chemistry in university. So the whole alchemy part turned my reality upside down. This is not your “turn lead into gold” type book, far from it. It is not all about alchemy, just as it is rich with magical and fantastic things, there is just as much political intrigue and power struggles going on.
Alchemy being “a new to me thing”, everything was alien and I didn’t know the rules. For example, here in my reality red and green make yellow. CHECK. However in the world that Cynthea Masson created, you are going to get something completely different and most likely unexpected. Things work completely different there… and often they blew my mind. Thank you Cynthea Masson for blowing my mind. More than once.
In the Alchemists’ Council, we meet Jaden who is a new initiate at the Alchemists’ council, an in-between world of sorts that keeps elemental balance in check. As she spends time within the council, she learns of disappearing bees, she makes new friends (loses some), travels through portals and spends time in a library that I wish I could have in real life. Jaden’s been brought into the Alchemists’ Council at a critical time, the threat of war from the Rebel Branch is a heartbeat away. Difficult choices are to be made by Jaden with the fate of these worlds in the balance. In the end, free will being a huge part of the equation.
There is a considerable amount of political intrigue written into this book, but I’m guessing it is essential to have all of this in the first book as a base line for what follows in the next books.
As I said earlier, the reason I enjoyed this book was the surprise factor. If this is your genre, you may see these twists coming a mile away. Not seeing them coming was magical, simply magical. I want to get to know these characters more, I feel I’ve only skimmed the surface. For this, I must wait patiently for the continuation… until then though I can read Alchemist Council news on their blog. I love when authors do this sort of thing.
The book totally pulled me into a world that I’m unaccustomed to. The Alchemists’ Council is my first novel dealing with alchemy. Personal life factoid : I studied bio-chemistry in university. So the whole alchemy part turned my reality upside down. This is not your “turn lead into gold” type book, far from it. It is not all about alchemy, just as it is rich with magical and fantastic things, there is just as much political intrigue and power struggles going on.
Alchemy being “a new to me thing”, everything was alien and I didn’t know the rules. For example, here in my reality red and green make yellow. CHECK. However in the world that Cynthea Masson created, you are going to get something completely different and most likely unexpected. Things work completely different there… and often they blew my mind. Thank you Cynthea Masson for blowing my mind. More than once.
In the Alchemists’ Council, we meet Jaden who is a new initiate at the Alchemists’ council, an in-between world of sorts that keeps elemental balance in check. As she spends time within the council, she learns of disappearing bees, she makes new friends (loses some), travels through portals and spends time in a library that I wish I could have in real life. Jaden’s been brought into the Alchemists’ Council at a critical time, the threat of war from the Rebel Branch is a heartbeat away. Difficult choices are to be made by Jaden with the fate of these worlds in the balance. In the end, free will being a huge part of the equation.
There is a considerable amount of political intrigue written into this book, but I’m guessing it is essential to have all of this in the first book as a base line for what follows in the next books.
As I said earlier, the reason I enjoyed this book was the surprise factor. If this is your genre, you may see these twists coming a mile away. Not seeing them coming was magical, simply magical. I want to get to know these characters more, I feel I’ve only skimmed the surface. For this, I must wait patiently for the continuation… until then though I can read Alchemist Council news on their blog. I love when authors do this sort of thing.
July 17, 2016
Have you ever read a book and realized a few chapters in that you can guess the ending? This is not that book. The Alchemists' Council not only introduces you to an entire new 'world' to enjoy but keeps you guessing each chapter along the way.
The first few chapters were very heavy and dense with new information as the author introduces you to the history and structure of the dimension in which the story takes place. But it is definitely worth it. I compared it to being dropped in country where you don't know the language, the customs or your way around. It might be difficult for the first little bit but the journey of being there makes it very worthwhile. I found this to be the case with this book as well. Where, with the introduction of a new world and beings, the author drops the reader into unfamiliar territory. And with no comparisons from prior fiction novels to draw on, we are left to follow the authors words as she builds this new environment. It was such a wonderfully unique experience for me to read a book that captures a completely original story with no ties to previous books written by other authors (for example:stories about vampires, fairies etc. where prior knowledge of the beings helps you to form the storyline).
Once the story begins, it was very easy to follow along with Jaden and the other characters as the story develops. I found myself being pulled along in the story with each twist of the story drawing me to read 'just one more chapter' before I put it down. I ended up being unable to leave the story and spent the entire day being drawn through the intrigue that the author creates. Each chapter left me unable to envision what could possibly be coming next and it was this experience that had me guessing right up until the very end.
The author has done an incredible job of writing a story that is unique and intriguing. I absolutely loved this book! I can't wait for the second book to come out to read more from this author.
The first few chapters were very heavy and dense with new information as the author introduces you to the history and structure of the dimension in which the story takes place. But it is definitely worth it. I compared it to being dropped in country where you don't know the language, the customs or your way around. It might be difficult for the first little bit but the journey of being there makes it very worthwhile. I found this to be the case with this book as well. Where, with the introduction of a new world and beings, the author drops the reader into unfamiliar territory. And with no comparisons from prior fiction novels to draw on, we are left to follow the authors words as she builds this new environment. It was such a wonderfully unique experience for me to read a book that captures a completely original story with no ties to previous books written by other authors (for example:stories about vampires, fairies etc. where prior knowledge of the beings helps you to form the storyline).
Once the story begins, it was very easy to follow along with Jaden and the other characters as the story develops. I found myself being pulled along in the story with each twist of the story drawing me to read 'just one more chapter' before I put it down. I ended up being unable to leave the story and spent the entire day being drawn through the intrigue that the author creates. Each chapter left me unable to envision what could possibly be coming next and it was this experience that had me guessing right up until the very end.
The author has done an incredible job of writing a story that is unique and intriguing. I absolutely loved this book! I can't wait for the second book to come out to read more from this author.
April 4, 2016
I had the opportunity to read an ARC of this book—and am I glad I did! This is a captivating story where questions of free will and destiny play out against the backdrop of a fully-imagined, lyrically-described fantasy world. We follow Jaden, new initiate to the Alchemists’ Council, as she learns about political intrigue and contemplates rebellion against the ostensibly good works of the established order.
This is far more than the age-old tale of rebellion versus status quo, though. Legends of alchemy focus on the idea of turning lead into gold, of turning something common and relatively worthless into something rare and valuable. Masson’s alchemists, however, seek a higher goal, a form of spiritual enlightenment driven by a calling to protect a complex metaphysical ecosystem across three dimensions. The tale cleverly forces readers to question whether that which these alchemists value is really worth striving for. This is a story that compellingly explores opposing ideologies and hints that it is only through balancing these competing interests—rather than privileging one over another—that true harmony is achieved. To be fair, though, we’ll have to see where Books 2 and 3 of the Alchemists’ Council land on the subject!
Cynthea Masson has performed her own alchemy here, turning mere words into a nuanced, complex exploration of identity and philosophy, wrapped in an enthralling tale of adventure and intrigue.
This is far more than the age-old tale of rebellion versus status quo, though. Legends of alchemy focus on the idea of turning lead into gold, of turning something common and relatively worthless into something rare and valuable. Masson’s alchemists, however, seek a higher goal, a form of spiritual enlightenment driven by a calling to protect a complex metaphysical ecosystem across three dimensions. The tale cleverly forces readers to question whether that which these alchemists value is really worth striving for. This is a story that compellingly explores opposing ideologies and hints that it is only through balancing these competing interests—rather than privileging one over another—that true harmony is achieved. To be fair, though, we’ll have to see where Books 2 and 3 of the Alchemists’ Council land on the subject!
Cynthea Masson has performed her own alchemy here, turning mere words into a nuanced, complex exploration of identity and philosophy, wrapped in an enthralling tale of adventure and intrigue.
November 3, 2016
I read this book in two days, I just could not put it down! The book is beautifully written and Jaden as the main character is someone I could really associate with. A strong female character, yet, not one who is stereotypically a hardcore fighter (which I hate!) Jaden felt real.
I really liked the slow development of feelings towards Arjan, however sometimes I felt as if he was more of a blank wall and would have liked to see more of an emotional response (however, there was beautiful moment when he touched Jaden's hair- I really felt so much emotion at that part).
I do not agree with the fact that people state the characters are flat, after writing notes as I went a long I could really begin to see the personality differences between Jaden, Cedar and Sadira. Masson does well at bringing HUMAN characters into the novel.
The reason I rate this four stars is I felt the ending was rather rushed and I was extremely disappointed with how Masson left Arjan at the end of the book. He seemed to have no emotion as to what was happening and even at that point Jaden suddenly seemed to care very little about him.
I'm excited to read then next book but I hope Arjan remains a strong part of the series and does not get washed to the side as he did in the end of the book.
I really liked the slow development of feelings towards Arjan, however sometimes I felt as if he was more of a blank wall and would have liked to see more of an emotional response (however, there was beautiful moment when he touched Jaden's hair- I really felt so much emotion at that part).
I do not agree with the fact that people state the characters are flat, after writing notes as I went a long I could really begin to see the personality differences between Jaden, Cedar and Sadira. Masson does well at bringing HUMAN characters into the novel.
The reason I rate this four stars is I felt the ending was rather rushed and I was extremely disappointed with how Masson left Arjan at the end of the book. He seemed to have no emotion as to what was happening and even at that point Jaden suddenly seemed to care very little about him.
I'm excited to read then next book but I hope Arjan remains a strong part of the series and does not get washed to the side as he did in the end of the book.
February 17, 2016
I got an Advance readers copy.
Wow! It's been a while since I read such a good book. I cant wait for the next book to come out. I loved this book which came to me as a surprise because it was a bit slow paced in the beginning. I am glad I stuck with it because the story was new and different.
The story centers around the main character Jaden however, not all focus is on her you do get the perspective from other characters in the story which made it much more interesting.
Jaden is a new initiate in the Alchemist Council which keep the elemental balance between earth and the alchemist council. The Council has the power to control events in our world EARTH. The rebel branch believe that the council has too much power and are trying to thwart their influence. Jaden is faced whether to believe in the council or rebel forces.
I definitely recommend this book. Very intriguing.
Wow! It's been a while since I read such a good book. I cant wait for the next book to come out. I loved this book which came to me as a surprise because it was a bit slow paced in the beginning. I am glad I stuck with it because the story was new and different.
The story centers around the main character Jaden however, not all focus is on her you do get the perspective from other characters in the story which made it much more interesting.
Jaden is a new initiate in the Alchemist Council which keep the elemental balance between earth and the alchemist council. The Council has the power to control events in our world EARTH. The rebel branch believe that the council has too much power and are trying to thwart their influence. Jaden is faced whether to believe in the council or rebel forces.
I definitely recommend this book. Very intriguing.
April 5, 2016
I absolutely loved this book and am eagerly awaiting the sequel! Masson has crafted an eloquently vivid and memorable world. One that is beautifully detailed and filled with fascinating and complex characters. A fresh, original fantasy that intertwines mysteries from our current reality such as disappearing bees with tantalizing affect.
The first few chapters lay down the neccesarily detailed history and begin building this incredible world in the reader's mind. With the ground work laid, the reader is rewarded with a wonderfully fast tale of mystery and magic that will leave them wanting more and wondering when they can get their hands on the sequel to learn more of Jaden, Cedar, Sadira, and the other fascinating characters of The Alchemists' Council.
A very difficult book to put down! Highly recommended.
The first few chapters lay down the neccesarily detailed history and begin building this incredible world in the reader's mind. With the ground work laid, the reader is rewarded with a wonderfully fast tale of mystery and magic that will leave them wanting more and wondering when they can get their hands on the sequel to learn more of Jaden, Cedar, Sadira, and the other fascinating characters of The Alchemists' Council.
A very difficult book to put down! Highly recommended.
May 11, 2016
The smell of libraries and old manuscripts permeates this novel. I enjoyed this intriguing fantasy, the first in a trilogy. The complexities of the Alchemists’ Council are challenging at first, but as you move through the novel, the reasons for that complexity become clear. Jaden is an appealing protagonist. The scene in Quindao really hooked me, and the twists and turns made for a fascinating ending. I really did not see all of them coming.
As a serious examination of the role of free will, it reminded me of Milton. It is a fantasy set in other dimensions than ours, yet it is inherently about our world, about how to decide who to trust in a rigid hierarchy and about our propensity for environmental destruction.
As a serious examination of the role of free will, it reminded me of Milton. It is a fantasy set in other dimensions than ours, yet it is inherently about our world, about how to decide who to trust in a rigid hierarchy and about our propensity for environmental destruction.
July 24, 2016
I grabbed this book almost at random from the store because I liked what the title seemed to imply (politics and a richly developed magic system) and I was not disappointed! I was so impressed with the author's mix of existing alchemical lore and her own creations to craft the world of Council Dimension, and she portrayed everything so convincingly that I was shocked not to find a Wikipedia page for "Novillian Scribe" or "Azoth Magen" I also loved how the cosmology of the book magnified the effects of personal choices, making the stakes colossally high while still remaining intensely personal for the characters. Good stuff.
August 23, 2016
I began to read The Alchemist’s Council slowly, one brimming chapter at a time, taking delight in the marvelous and complex world that the author brings to life and enjoying the subtle intrigues of the characters’ relationships and dilemmas. Just past the mid-point, though, as the deepening mysteries of the novel began to unfold, I started turning pages more quickly until I was racing to the conclusion. I agree with the reviewer who described the writing as exquisite, and there is some clever gender-bending and a play of ideas throughout that makes this an engaging and thoroughly-satisfying read.
May 13, 2016
I loved this story! It was so skilfully written, the words just melted into my imagination. As a few other reviewers have commented, I also found the writing to be dense but that was part of the delight of the book. Masson created a rich and sumptuous world, one that naturally transmuted into a visual world my mind's eye. I can't wait for the sequels!
June 23, 2016
The Alchemists' Council is a superbly-crafted universe with rich characters, well-developed themes and crisp storytelling. This is a story about magic, science, loyalty, sensuality, philosophy, logic, reason, ethics, morals....I could go on and on. This story is well-written, intriguing, and incredibly detailed, with a level of imagination I've rarely seen elsewhere in fantasy lit. Well done!
June 19, 2016
Finished in a little over a month. This is a definite page-turner that blends mystery and fantasy. the first 20 pages were a bit hard to get into but after that- full speed ahead. It leaves it open for a sequel, as the cover suggests it's the first in a trilogy, but if she never wrote another it is still good enough to stand on it's own.
December 7, 2015
I was lucky to get an Advance Reader Copy of this book - I absolutely loved it and couldn't put it down once I started! The characters were engaging and kept your interest all the way through to the end - and beyond! Can't wait for the next installment.
September 5, 2018
Its hard to find a book in the fantasy genre that isn't just a rework of someone else's book. This one is different. And what has been happening to all the bees lately...?
January 7, 2019
Written by an someone with an English/Alchemy background was certainly evident throughout this book. Some of the writing and overall attention to detail made me think of the All Souls Trilogy. (If you're a fan of that series, I'd give this one a go, as well!)
The biggest downside I found was that it was a little difficult to read at times, as there were so many terms and concepts to remember. The author must have anticipated that, as there was an entire section at the beginning of the book that described these terms and concepts, so it was easy to refer back when needed. (Though, a glossery or "who's who" by name would also have been helpful!) I especially liked how it wasn't written from a single point of view, so you were able to get the full spectrum of the story. The only downside to that, though, was that the character development felt like it fell a little flat or jumpy.
But getting past the structure, the story itself was fantastic. It had me hooked right from the beginning, and urged me to continue with all the questions of who to trust, and what the rebels ultimate plan was. I can't wait to start the next book in the series, and am already anticipating the third!
The biggest downside I found was that it was a little difficult to read at times, as there were so many terms and concepts to remember. The author must have anticipated that, as there was an entire section at the beginning of the book that described these terms and concepts, so it was easy to refer back when needed. (Though, a glossery or "who's who" by name would also have been helpful!) I especially liked how it wasn't written from a single point of view, so you were able to get the full spectrum of the story. The only downside to that, though, was that the character development felt like it fell a little flat or jumpy.
But getting past the structure, the story itself was fantastic. It had me hooked right from the beginning, and urged me to continue with all the questions of who to trust, and what the rebels ultimate plan was. I can't wait to start the next book in the series, and am already anticipating the third!
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