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The Alchemyst's Mirror
Petra and Maisie Everturn just want to run their family’s tea shop, but when their explorer brother Jiordan goes missing while looking for an alchemycal artifact, none of them are safe.
The sisters must enlist the help of another explorer in order to find Jiordan or the artifact—before the mysterious alchemyst society finds them first.
However, when one of the sisters stumbles into the clutches of the most dangerous alchemyst in the city, the race to unravel the clues becomes desperate. And when they discover the truth about the artifact, their quest to infiltrate the alchemyst’s secret society becomes a matter of life and death.
The sisters must enlist the help of another explorer in order to find Jiordan or the artifact—before the mysterious alchemyst society finds them first.
However, when one of the sisters stumbles into the clutches of the most dangerous alchemyst in the city, the race to unravel the clues becomes desperate. And when they discover the truth about the artifact, their quest to infiltrate the alchemyst’s secret society becomes a matter of life and death.
ebook
Published October 27, 2020
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About the author
Liz Delton
35 books166 followersLiz Delton writes and lives in New England, with her husband and sons. She studied Theater Management at the University of the Arts in Philly, always having enjoyed the backstage life of storytelling.
World-building is her favorite part of writing, and she is always dreaming up new fantastic places.
She loves drinking tea and traveling. When she’s not writing or reading, you can find her baking in the kitchen, or out in the garden trying to keep her plants alive.
World-building is her favorite part of writing, and she is always dreaming up new fantastic places.
She loves drinking tea and traveling. When she’s not writing or reading, you can find her baking in the kitchen, or out in the garden trying to keep her plants alive.
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Displaying 1 - 23 of 23 reviews
November 25, 2020
This review was also posted on my blog: https://prettypeonyblog.com/2020/11/2...
The Alchemyst’s Mirror by Liz Delton is a fantasy story about two sisters who are on a quest to find their kidnapped brother. At the same time, there is a missing object/item that’s very dangerous and needs to be found before the wrong person gets to it.
Petra and Maisie own a bakery and are very happy in their lives. The only thing that worries them is their missing brother. They both want to find him, so they set a plan to find him. Maisie gets kidnapped before they began the search leaving Petra to go without her. While Maisie is gone, Petra and an explorer named Evan commence the mission to find the brother. During their search, they find clues to a dangerous secret society, and before they know it, they get tangled in a trap. Maisie, while kidnapped on a ship outsmarts the person who kidnapped her and finds her way back to save her sister and Evan.
This was a really fun read. The two sisters were strong and knew what kind of life they wanted to live. Even though they had lost their parents and their brother was kidnapped, they kept it together. They were very protective of each other and you can feel the love between them. The action was wonderful, and the villain was well done. This story was a little fast-paced and there were lots of telling/describing things (that were unnecessary), but otherwise, it was a great read.
There was one thing I found a little annoying and I hope this changes in the following books, but I found Petra somewhat unlikable in the sense that she was often verbally abusive to Evan, who happened to really like her. She bossed him around and yelled at him when he made mistakes. I’m not sure why he stuck around or why he’d like someone like that. I was confused. I think that’s the only issue I had. I secretly wanted Evan to stand up to her.
I’d say this book would be great for those who enjoy a middle grade level of reading. It reminds me a little of Harry Potter in writing style.
NOTE: This book was given to me to read and review, but the opinion is purely my own.
The Alchemyst’s Mirror by Liz Delton is a fantasy story about two sisters who are on a quest to find their kidnapped brother. At the same time, there is a missing object/item that’s very dangerous and needs to be found before the wrong person gets to it.
Petra and Maisie own a bakery and are very happy in their lives. The only thing that worries them is their missing brother. They both want to find him, so they set a plan to find him. Maisie gets kidnapped before they began the search leaving Petra to go without her. While Maisie is gone, Petra and an explorer named Evan commence the mission to find the brother. During their search, they find clues to a dangerous secret society, and before they know it, they get tangled in a trap. Maisie, while kidnapped on a ship outsmarts the person who kidnapped her and finds her way back to save her sister and Evan.
This was a really fun read. The two sisters were strong and knew what kind of life they wanted to live. Even though they had lost their parents and their brother was kidnapped, they kept it together. They were very protective of each other and you can feel the love between them. The action was wonderful, and the villain was well done. This story was a little fast-paced and there were lots of telling/describing things (that were unnecessary), but otherwise, it was a great read.
There was one thing I found a little annoying and I hope this changes in the following books, but I found Petra somewhat unlikable in the sense that she was often verbally abusive to Evan, who happened to really like her. She bossed him around and yelled at him when he made mistakes. I’m not sure why he stuck around or why he’d like someone like that. I was confused. I think that’s the only issue I had. I secretly wanted Evan to stand up to her.
I’d say this book would be great for those who enjoy a middle grade level of reading. It reminds me a little of Harry Potter in writing style.
NOTE: This book was given to me to read and review, but the opinion is purely my own.
October 4, 2020
The Alchemyst's Mirror, by Liz Delton, is an exciting, non-stop action, page turner.
Two sisters, Petra and Maisie run their parents tea shop in the industrialized city of Harrowdell. Their brother, an explorer, is missing, presumed dead, and all they want is to find out what happened to him. Their search leads them to the dark underworld of secret societies and unethical alchemyists. It's a well paced thrill ride, never knowing what will happen or who they can trust.
I really love the steampunk aesthetic, the world building felt well thought out with plenty of room to expand in future books. The main characters were everything you want in a female lead; strong, independent, resourceful, intelligent and above all feminine.
But the best part was really just the story. Every time I thought I knew where the story was going, it took a turn on me. The outcome was impossible to predict. But at the same time it didn't feel cobbled together either.
I feel like this is mostly a standalone book. While there is plenty of potential for a sequel, I wasn't left with any burning questions or any cliffhangers.
*I was given an ARC of this novel with no obligations attached. My review is provided honestly and willingly.*
Two sisters, Petra and Maisie run their parents tea shop in the industrialized city of Harrowdell. Their brother, an explorer, is missing, presumed dead, and all they want is to find out what happened to him. Their search leads them to the dark underworld of secret societies and unethical alchemyists. It's a well paced thrill ride, never knowing what will happen or who they can trust.
I really love the steampunk aesthetic, the world building felt well thought out with plenty of room to expand in future books. The main characters were everything you want in a female lead; strong, independent, resourceful, intelligent and above all feminine.
But the best part was really just the story. Every time I thought I knew where the story was going, it took a turn on me. The outcome was impossible to predict. But at the same time it didn't feel cobbled together either.
I feel like this is mostly a standalone book. While there is plenty of potential for a sequel, I wasn't left with any burning questions or any cliffhangers.
*I was given an ARC of this novel with no obligations attached. My review is provided honestly and willingly.*
October 26, 2020
Liz Delton is a wonderful steampunk author who infuses her novels with action, humor, whimsy, and charming characters set in a unique fantastical world. Sisters Petra and Maisie Everturn want only to run their teashop, but fate has other plans. When their explorer brother goes missing, the sisters' set out to find the truth behind his disappearance. A mysterious artifact called the Alchemyst's Mirror may hold clues, but dark forces are conspiring to secure the prize. The detailed world-building, fascinating plot turns, and a slow-burn romance drew me into this novel from page one. I will definitely search out additional titles by this author!
October 26, 2020
I'd like to thank Liz Delton for sending me an advanced reader's copy of The Alchemyst's Mirror in exchange for an honest review.
This was my first time reading a steampunk fantasy novel and I have to say its made me want to read more steampunk books! Liz did well to continuously incorporate descriptive words, elements, and trinkets relating to the steampunk theme.
The main story of Petra and Maisie trying to uncover their brother, Jiordan's whereabouts, was an interesting and well strategized mystery to follow. I've always enjoyed multi-POV stories, and this one was no different. Both main characters, Petra and Maisie, have strong character voices. I liked following each one as they tried to figure out what really happened to their brother. This story also has a strong emphasis on the value of family, and Liz shows it by the dangerous lengths these characters will go to for one another.
There's definitely an Indiana Jones vibe mixed within this steampunk world. There's magic in this world too, but I saw more of the steampunk world with mechanical gadgets, trinkets, and building structures, as well as potions made by alchemists. With a good size cast of characters, I'm looking forward to reading future books within the Everturn Chronicle series.
Be sure to read my full review on the Plum Report book blog:)
This was my first time reading a steampunk fantasy novel and I have to say its made me want to read more steampunk books! Liz did well to continuously incorporate descriptive words, elements, and trinkets relating to the steampunk theme.
The main story of Petra and Maisie trying to uncover their brother, Jiordan's whereabouts, was an interesting and well strategized mystery to follow. I've always enjoyed multi-POV stories, and this one was no different. Both main characters, Petra and Maisie, have strong character voices. I liked following each one as they tried to figure out what really happened to their brother. This story also has a strong emphasis on the value of family, and Liz shows it by the dangerous lengths these characters will go to for one another.
There's definitely an Indiana Jones vibe mixed within this steampunk world. There's magic in this world too, but I saw more of the steampunk world with mechanical gadgets, trinkets, and building structures, as well as potions made by alchemists. With a good size cast of characters, I'm looking forward to reading future books within the Everturn Chronicle series.
Be sure to read my full review on the Plum Report book blog:)
August 18, 2021
What a fun read! 𝑻𝒉𝒆 𝑨𝒍𝒄𝒉𝒆𝒎𝒚𝒔𝒕'𝒔 𝑴𝒊𝒓𝒓𝒐𝒓 is a fast-paced steampunk fantasy full of amazing characters, yummy tea, and interesting gadgets.
I really loved the concept behind this story, and how lush all the descriptions were. Especially of the tea shop; it made me want to dive into the pages and visit the Everturn tea shop myself!
Another aspect of this book that I really enjoyed were all of the characters. From the main characters, sisters Petra and Maisie, to the charming Evan Rosslyn, and the crew of the 𝑆𝑐𝑎𝑟𝑏𝑜𝑟𝑜𝑢𝑔ℎ, this book is full of characters that will keep you wanting more.
There were only a couple of things that kept this from being a full 5⭐️ read for me personally, and the first one was that there were certain story elements I wish would’ve been explained a little better for world-building’s sake. I know this is the first book in a series, so hopefully everything will be full explained as the series goes on! The other element was the romance - I enjoyed it, but almost felt like it started happening too fast.
But, that being said, those elements don’t take away from the fact that this is a truly great read! It’s fast, fun, and unique. I definitely recommend checking this one out, and I’m excited to see where the series goes from here!
I really loved the concept behind this story, and how lush all the descriptions were. Especially of the tea shop; it made me want to dive into the pages and visit the Everturn tea shop myself!
Another aspect of this book that I really enjoyed were all of the characters. From the main characters, sisters Petra and Maisie, to the charming Evan Rosslyn, and the crew of the 𝑆𝑐𝑎𝑟𝑏𝑜𝑟𝑜𝑢𝑔ℎ, this book is full of characters that will keep you wanting more.
There were only a couple of things that kept this from being a full 5⭐️ read for me personally, and the first one was that there were certain story elements I wish would’ve been explained a little better for world-building’s sake. I know this is the first book in a series, so hopefully everything will be full explained as the series goes on! The other element was the romance - I enjoyed it, but almost felt like it started happening too fast.
But, that being said, those elements don’t take away from the fact that this is a truly great read! It’s fast, fun, and unique. I definitely recommend checking this one out, and I’m excited to see where the series goes from here!
October 19, 2020
The Alchemyst’s Mirror is an exciting steam punk fantasy.
When sisters Petra and Maisie learn that their adventurer brother is missing and may have met the same fate as their parents they're determined to discover the truth behind his disappearance. Especially when a man arrives with a strange trunk. From that point forward the story takes many twists and turns as the sisters discover secret societies and that science doesn’t always have the answers.
I loved the relationship between sisters Petra and Maisie and the bond they share. They are both strong, independent, and intelligent women in their own right and each character stands on their own. The tiered steam punk world made the story even more interesting and the story itself kept me turning pages until the very end.
If you like strong female leads, solving mysteries, and slow burn romance then you’ll love The Alchemyst’s Mirror.
When sisters Petra and Maisie learn that their adventurer brother is missing and may have met the same fate as their parents they're determined to discover the truth behind his disappearance. Especially when a man arrives with a strange trunk. From that point forward the story takes many twists and turns as the sisters discover secret societies and that science doesn’t always have the answers.
I loved the relationship between sisters Petra and Maisie and the bond they share. They are both strong, independent, and intelligent women in their own right and each character stands on their own. The tiered steam punk world made the story even more interesting and the story itself kept me turning pages until the very end.
If you like strong female leads, solving mysteries, and slow burn romance then you’ll love The Alchemyst’s Mirror.
March 3, 2021
Read a beta copy of this. Probably need to re-read it to give an accurate review assessment, so not saying much here until I get a chance. Honestly very much enjoyed the beta copy.
July 8, 2022
💥 Read for SPFBO, this is only my opinion, the team verdict might wary widely! 💥
This book has a lot of promise, so I shall look up the author again! So even though this review sounds rather negative, let me prevace it with I DID enjoy the book anyway! In my eyes it just could have been amazing instead of "fine", which is why I have to niggle so much.
Sadly it didn't always deliver on those promises, so while it was a quick and enjoyable read, I will have to stick with three stars for it. There's a lot of things I live, but they all just struck a little bit short of how amazing they could have been.
I loved having a family at the heart if the story, two sisters looking for their lost, presumed dead, explorer brother. I am a big fan of families and really any close relationships that rent romance. So that was a big plus! The downside was that it felt a bit on the surface. So we get told they love each other because they are siblings, but the little squabbles as well as their family love felt a bit shallow. Having sisters who run a tea shop and like scones as much as their pistols was definitely a plus for me! So you see, it does have its ups!
I also really enjoyed the world, which combines alchemy, science and magic, with things like tea shops, guns, lifts, and more. But again I also would have liked teh whole world building to be just a bit deeper. It felt more like a movie setting, than a fully fleshed out world where you can almost feel all the things you can yet discover if you only just round that next corner.
The big bad also seems rather lackluster, and doesn't seem to be at all as powerful as we are made to believe in the beginning, and some of the twists just felt cobbled together, raising my eyebrow in a "really?" manner instead of an eye opening "So that's what it was all about!" moment.
There's a lot of action and running away, so it was a fast paced and quick read! And again there is a but - it didn't really feel like one coherent story, but rather a series of reactions to what happened. We are frequently told how the sister know hot to protect themselves, and always carry a weapon - and yet when there's actual danger they are always disarmed right away. They are a strange mix of "run into danger headlong" and timid, and it just didn't feel like a smooth characterization, or growth from one to the other.
Those "reactions" instead of actions were another main problem for me - the sisters seem to be pushed around by everyone around them, instead of deciding to do things for their own. I wished they just had a bit more volition of their own, instead of being told what to do so often.
They also seem to either trust everyone they meet right away, or know people are the true enemy right on. Yes it's a short book, and a fast paced one, so no time to set up the characters very long, but a bit more just would have felt better.
Despite all this complaining, it was a fun, fast paced and entertaining story I read within just two days, and as I said there's a lot of promise here!
This book has a lot of promise, so I shall look up the author again! So even though this review sounds rather negative, let me prevace it with I DID enjoy the book anyway! In my eyes it just could have been amazing instead of "fine", which is why I have to niggle so much.
Sadly it didn't always deliver on those promises, so while it was a quick and enjoyable read, I will have to stick with three stars for it. There's a lot of things I live, but they all just struck a little bit short of how amazing they could have been.
I loved having a family at the heart if the story, two sisters looking for their lost, presumed dead, explorer brother. I am a big fan of families and really any close relationships that rent romance. So that was a big plus! The downside was that it felt a bit on the surface. So we get told they love each other because they are siblings, but the little squabbles as well as their family love felt a bit shallow. Having sisters who run a tea shop and like scones as much as their pistols was definitely a plus for me! So you see, it does have its ups!
I also really enjoyed the world, which combines alchemy, science and magic, with things like tea shops, guns, lifts, and more. But again I also would have liked teh whole world building to be just a bit deeper. It felt more like a movie setting, than a fully fleshed out world where you can almost feel all the things you can yet discover if you only just round that next corner.
The big bad also seems rather lackluster, and doesn't seem to be at all as powerful as we are made to believe in the beginning, and some of the twists just felt cobbled together, raising my eyebrow in a "really?" manner instead of an eye opening "So that's what it was all about!" moment.
There's a lot of action and running away, so it was a fast paced and quick read! And again there is a but - it didn't really feel like one coherent story, but rather a series of reactions to what happened. We are frequently told how the sister know hot to protect themselves, and always carry a weapon - and yet when there's actual danger they are always disarmed right away. They are a strange mix of "run into danger headlong" and timid, and it just didn't feel like a smooth characterization, or growth from one to the other.
Those "reactions" instead of actions were another main problem for me - the sisters seem to be pushed around by everyone around them, instead of deciding to do things for their own. I wished they just had a bit more volition of their own, instead of being told what to do so often.
They also seem to either trust everyone they meet right away, or know people are the true enemy right on. Yes it's a short book, and a fast paced one, so no time to set up the characters very long, but a bit more just would have felt better.
Despite all this complaining, it was a fun, fast paced and entertaining story I read within just two days, and as I said there's a lot of promise here!
October 22, 2020
3.5/4 stars.
I was sent a copy of this book by the author for an honest review.
The Alchemyst's Mirror tells the story of two sisters whose dogged search for their missing brother leads them into a world of alchemy, secret societies, and adventure. Petra and Maisie have searched for their brother Jiordan for a long time, and when another explorer turns up with a trunk belonging to him and with news of his death, the girls are both skeptical. The mysterious trunk leads them to a secret society hunting for the Alchemyst's Mirror, a device that can be used to transport matter from place to place. When Maisie finds herself kidnapped by a former member of the Rose Guild, Petra must team up with Evan, the explorer, and find out what happened to both her sister and her brother. Maisie, meanwhile, finds herself in a far-off land trying to find her way home, but stumbles upon the key to restoring her family once and for all.
The Alchemyst's Mirror was actually a pretty fun read. From the beginning, the plot gets rolling and doesn't stop for the entire novel. The pacing in this book is really good, and I found Maisie and Petra's desperate quest to reunite their family to be a narrative that was super compelling and engaging. I loved how the bond between sisters is truly the heart of this book. Maisie and Petra would do anything for each other, and seeing their relationship was really rewarding. I thought the plot and the different factions wanting the Alchemyst's Mirror was really well-thought out and intriguing. My only wish was to see a bit more development of Petra and Maisie's world, as well as more development of the romance that blooms between Petra and Evan. So while my time constraints were happy it was a quick read, I wouldn't have minded it being a little longer than it was. But overall, considering the book's short length, The Alchemyst's Mirror is a pretty solid steampunk fantasy about the lengths we will go for family and power.
I was sent a copy of this book by the author for an honest review.
The Alchemyst's Mirror tells the story of two sisters whose dogged search for their missing brother leads them into a world of alchemy, secret societies, and adventure. Petra and Maisie have searched for their brother Jiordan for a long time, and when another explorer turns up with a trunk belonging to him and with news of his death, the girls are both skeptical. The mysterious trunk leads them to a secret society hunting for the Alchemyst's Mirror, a device that can be used to transport matter from place to place. When Maisie finds herself kidnapped by a former member of the Rose Guild, Petra must team up with Evan, the explorer, and find out what happened to both her sister and her brother. Maisie, meanwhile, finds herself in a far-off land trying to find her way home, but stumbles upon the key to restoring her family once and for all.
The Alchemyst's Mirror was actually a pretty fun read. From the beginning, the plot gets rolling and doesn't stop for the entire novel. The pacing in this book is really good, and I found Maisie and Petra's desperate quest to reunite their family to be a narrative that was super compelling and engaging. I loved how the bond between sisters is truly the heart of this book. Maisie and Petra would do anything for each other, and seeing their relationship was really rewarding. I thought the plot and the different factions wanting the Alchemyst's Mirror was really well-thought out and intriguing. My only wish was to see a bit more development of Petra and Maisie's world, as well as more development of the romance that blooms between Petra and Evan. So while my time constraints were happy it was a quick read, I wouldn't have minded it being a little longer than it was. But overall, considering the book's short length, The Alchemyst's Mirror is a pretty solid steampunk fantasy about the lengths we will go for family and power.
October 10, 2020
** I received a copy of this book from the author and I am happy to leave this review.**
The Alchemyst's Mirror is a fun, pistol-wielding, fantasy adventure set in a rich, vertically layered city. Yes, vertical! The story also has strong female protagonists, a slow romance, kidnapping, sea voyages, a rescue mission, and a fabulous tea and bakery shop. All the makings of a solid story arc that keeps you turning pages.
Petra and Maisie are sisters running their family tea and bakery shop, except they are the last two Everturns left. Their parents, life-long adventurers, set out on a journey and never returned, and their brother seems destined to follow in their footsteps. When a trunk arrives for the sisters bearing a note from their brother "upon his death," Petra and Maisie are swept up into the intrigue they tried hard to avoid.
The characters are well-written and easy to love. The story takes them through trials, both together and apart, which show the sisters different sides of themselves they didn't know they had. The vertically constructed city is a unique element of Liz Delton's tale, increasing the conflict across the socially divided Rises.
The Alchemyst's Mirror is perfect for fantasy readers who want a lighter, adventurous read set in a rich, vivid world. Don't be shy, step into the Everturn's tea shop and learn of their escapades, you will be happy you did!
The Alchemyst's Mirror is a fun, pistol-wielding, fantasy adventure set in a rich, vertically layered city. Yes, vertical! The story also has strong female protagonists, a slow romance, kidnapping, sea voyages, a rescue mission, and a fabulous tea and bakery shop. All the makings of a solid story arc that keeps you turning pages.
Petra and Maisie are sisters running their family tea and bakery shop, except they are the last two Everturns left. Their parents, life-long adventurers, set out on a journey and never returned, and their brother seems destined to follow in their footsteps. When a trunk arrives for the sisters bearing a note from their brother "upon his death," Petra and Maisie are swept up into the intrigue they tried hard to avoid.
The characters are well-written and easy to love. The story takes them through trials, both together and apart, which show the sisters different sides of themselves they didn't know they had. The vertically constructed city is a unique element of Liz Delton's tale, increasing the conflict across the socially divided Rises.
The Alchemyst's Mirror is perfect for fantasy readers who want a lighter, adventurous read set in a rich, vivid world. Don't be shy, step into the Everturn's tea shop and learn of their escapades, you will be happy you did!
October 12, 2023
Gears and cogs and clever little magical devices…what more could a steampunk enthusiast want? Mmmm…what about platters of fresh, steaming cinnamon buns? Those, along with engaging characters, nasty villains, and a detailed setting, make author Liz Delton’s "The Alchemyst's Mirror" a cozy, warm, and tasty little mystery that holds your attention to the end.
The story follows Petra and Maisie Everturn, two sisters whose simple desires to manage their family's tea shop take a turn when their brother Jiordan disappears while searching for an alchemical artifact. The book weaves an intricate fantasy narrative, blending the siblings' quest to find their kidnapped brother with the urgency of recovering a dangerous object before it falls into the wrong hands.
With a mere hint of romance and no grimdark or trigger warnings, this one is the perfect beach-read. If you love cozy mysteries, "The Alchemyst's Mirror" offers an exciting blend of steampunk and fantasy elements, making it an intriguing and enjoyable story.
The story follows Petra and Maisie Everturn, two sisters whose simple desires to manage their family's tea shop take a turn when their brother Jiordan disappears while searching for an alchemical artifact. The book weaves an intricate fantasy narrative, blending the siblings' quest to find their kidnapped brother with the urgency of recovering a dangerous object before it falls into the wrong hands.
With a mere hint of romance and no grimdark or trigger warnings, this one is the perfect beach-read. If you love cozy mysteries, "The Alchemyst's Mirror" offers an exciting blend of steampunk and fantasy elements, making it an intriguing and enjoyable story.
October 28, 2020
4.5 star review!
“The Alchemyst’s Mirror” is a fun story about adventure, secret society’s, badass witty sisters, and maybe even a little romance.
I really enjoyed reading this, between the witty banter with Petra and Evan and the bonding between Elijah and Maisie, this book left me loving the bonds formed.
Petra and Maisie Everturn lost their years ago, but what happens when the explorer brother goes as well. They are left to run their families tea shop alone, until another explorer, claiming to know their brother, seeks them out to help in finding out what happened to him. What happens when a secret society of Alchemists comes after them because of an artifact their brother stole, and what happens when one sister also goes missing and one starts to fall for the mysterious explorer? Read “The Alchemyst’s Mirror” to find out!!
I received this as a free ARC copy, but all opinions are my own.
“The Alchemyst’s Mirror” is a fun story about adventure, secret society’s, badass witty sisters, and maybe even a little romance.
I really enjoyed reading this, between the witty banter with Petra and Evan and the bonding between Elijah and Maisie, this book left me loving the bonds formed.
Petra and Maisie Everturn lost their years ago, but what happens when the explorer brother goes as well. They are left to run their families tea shop alone, until another explorer, claiming to know their brother, seeks them out to help in finding out what happened to him. What happens when a secret society of Alchemists comes after them because of an artifact their brother stole, and what happens when one sister also goes missing and one starts to fall for the mysterious explorer? Read “The Alchemyst’s Mirror” to find out!!
I received this as a free ARC copy, but all opinions are my own.
October 30, 2020
I normally don’t read books like this but I’m loving these steampunk, with a little romance novels I’ve been finding. I’m glad I tried this story and took a chance on it. It was interesting and I enjoyed the characters. They seemed a bit young to me but Petra was only 20 years old!
I really enjoyed the relationship between Petra and her sister and the determination in finding her brother. I enjoyed the add of Evan and a few other characters. The steampunk and magic aspect was pretty cool. I also enjoyed the fact that the sisters both went on an adventure but without each other and handled it really well.
I felt like I was a little bored at times or things weren’t super excited but I still enjoyed reading this story. I feel like the ending was great but could also work for a sequel?
I really enjoyed the relationship between Petra and her sister and the determination in finding her brother. I enjoyed the add of Evan and a few other characters. The steampunk and magic aspect was pretty cool. I also enjoyed the fact that the sisters both went on an adventure but without each other and handled it really well.
I felt like I was a little bored at times or things weren’t super excited but I still enjoyed reading this story. I feel like the ending was great but could also work for a sequel?
October 27, 2020
"The Alchemyst's Mirror" by Liz Delton is a torrid tale of treachery and tea.
Sisters Petra and Maisie are Victorian ladies who run a tea shoppe. Life is sweet until their brother goes missing and they must rescue him from kidnappers. They become spies, using magical contraptions with steampunk power, to glean information regarding their enemies. They soon find themselves embroiled in a mystery that goes back for generations.
Light romance, dark moods, and whimsical settings abound in this steampunk adventure.
Sisters Petra and Maisie are Victorian ladies who run a tea shoppe. Life is sweet until their brother goes missing and they must rescue him from kidnappers. They become spies, using magical contraptions with steampunk power, to glean information regarding their enemies. They soon find themselves embroiled in a mystery that goes back for generations.
Light romance, dark moods, and whimsical settings abound in this steampunk adventure.
October 28, 2020
POV: dual
HUMOR: some
SEX SCENES: no
PROFANITY: no
CLIFFHANGER: no
New author for me. Petra (20) and Maisie (17) start the book off with a clever act during the very first incident and has the reader drawn to the book to find out what happens on the next page, and the next. The characters are written well and there's a twist at the end. It was exciting to follow the characters on their different adventures. A good family read
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
HUMOR: some
SEX SCENES: no
PROFANITY: no
CLIFFHANGER: no
New author for me. Petra (20) and Maisie (17) start the book off with a clever act during the very first incident and has the reader drawn to the book to find out what happens on the next page, and the next. The characters are written well and there's a twist at the end. It was exciting to follow the characters on their different adventures. A good family read
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
March 3, 2023
Two sisters, Petra and Maisie, now run the family tea and bakery shop until their brother mysteriously disappears and sends them a trunk which may lead to his whereabouts, but the trunk is stolen by a woman with a red ruby eye. They get separated and go on separate but intertwined adventures uncovering not just family secrets but the real dangers of the Alchemists Guild that threatens their and possibly their brothers lives. Great locations of the multi tiered city and beyond, fast paced, couldn't put it down.
October 27, 2020
Happy release day to this fun book: The Alchemysts Mirror. I got to read an arc of this and I enjoyed it, although there were a few things I would’ve loved to see explored more deeply. Specifically, I would’ve loved to see more of the character’s inner thoughts and feelings. It was very plot focused and the plot was definitely very exciting, with many turns that I wasn’t expecting at all, but I’ve realized that depth in characters is one of my biggest wants for any book. My pet peeve is when a book is too plot focused and this one wasn’t super bad in this respect, but like I said I definitely would’ve loved to get to the know the characters even better than we got to. Overall, if you love plot focused books that deal with alchemy, this might be the book for you! It is available today on Amazon and it’s free on kindle unlimited.
November 2, 2020
The Alchemyst's Mirror by Liz Delton is a great story that I have read. This is a great story that I have really enjoyed reading very much and can not wait to see what this author will write about next. I recommend this story to everyone who likes reading about soft Sci-Fi and fantasy.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
November 20, 2020
What an incredible tale. The entire concept, and the two sisters as the main protagonists made for a well spun story told from different perspectives. Filled with action, and suspense, this is not to be missed.
November 15, 2021
Intriguing
Not not kind of steampunk story I thought when I started. However it had the traditional mix of vitrine age and gadgets. The characters drew me in and I had to finish to see how it ended.
Not not kind of steampunk story I thought when I started. However it had the traditional mix of vitrine age and gadgets. The characters drew me in and I had to finish to see how it ended.
January 30, 2023
Read as preparation for a Glasgow 2024 panel.
February 3, 2025
Interesting steampunk story of two sibling heroines who set out on their individual adventures to save their brother using their unique strengths and intellect.
July 5, 2022
I read this book for #SPFBO8 — this is my opinion only, my team members will have their own.
This is the tale of 2 sisters - Petra and Masie who are busy running their late parent's Tea Shop whilst their brother Jiordan is exploring abroad for artifacts. When a trunk arrives at the shop accompanied by a letter telling them that their brother is dead they are stunned and don't quite believe it. An supposed friend of Jiordan let's the sisters know that they have both been searching for the Alchemyst's Mirror as are a couple of dodgy groups that will stop at nothing to possess the mirror themselves.
🖋️A seemingly magical artifact spoken of in both Adonian and Amaryllian tales that points to sorcerers, metallurgists and even—” he lowered his voice, “an underground alchemyst society.”
"It’s rumored to contain each of the seven metals of alchemy, an impossible feat of metallurgy to say the least. And each corresponds to one of what used to be thought of as the seven planets. It’s said it can transport the person holding it to another place.”🖋️
Whilst the plot is nothing new it did contain a number of small twists and there were a couple I certainly didn't see coming.
Our 2 main characters are very well written, descriptions of them don't focus on physical attributes but a lot about their ways of thinking, their behaviour and the relationship they have with each other and their brother. Whilst they both love working in the shop Petra is also studies Alchemy herself (which is vital for future survival)
🖋️she had the Amaryllian amulet. She stuck her hand in her pocket and wrapped her fingers around it. It was cold. If a lie were to be uttered in its presence, it would warm up. She knew there was some strange substance at its core, she just didn’t know its scientific composition.🖋️
The world building wasn't too bad and I love the science/steampunk/alchemy and the rules surrounding the inventions but the setting is where I found myself with a couple of issues with the main one being a slight clash of worlds. Setting is olde world or early 1900's earth feel to it - wooden ships, carts etc but the Tea Shop seems to be a more modern addition and I personally found that slightly jarring.
There is a small amount of romance but it's a slow build up and is not a major feature.
Overall this was a smooth read (I read it in a day), a great cast of characters with lovely family dynamics, enough action (physical and mental battles of wits) and a mystery to keep one in invested and wanting to know what happens next.
This is the tale of 2 sisters - Petra and Masie who are busy running their late parent's Tea Shop whilst their brother Jiordan is exploring abroad for artifacts. When a trunk arrives at the shop accompanied by a letter telling them that their brother is dead they are stunned and don't quite believe it. An supposed friend of Jiordan let's the sisters know that they have both been searching for the Alchemyst's Mirror as are a couple of dodgy groups that will stop at nothing to possess the mirror themselves.
🖋️A seemingly magical artifact spoken of in both Adonian and Amaryllian tales that points to sorcerers, metallurgists and even—” he lowered his voice, “an underground alchemyst society.”
"It’s rumored to contain each of the seven metals of alchemy, an impossible feat of metallurgy to say the least. And each corresponds to one of what used to be thought of as the seven planets. It’s said it can transport the person holding it to another place.”🖋️
Whilst the plot is nothing new it did contain a number of small twists and there were a couple I certainly didn't see coming.
Our 2 main characters are very well written, descriptions of them don't focus on physical attributes but a lot about their ways of thinking, their behaviour and the relationship they have with each other and their brother. Whilst they both love working in the shop Petra is also studies Alchemy herself (which is vital for future survival)
🖋️she had the Amaryllian amulet. She stuck her hand in her pocket and wrapped her fingers around it. It was cold. If a lie were to be uttered in its presence, it would warm up. She knew there was some strange substance at its core, she just didn’t know its scientific composition.🖋️
The world building wasn't too bad and I love the science/steampunk/alchemy and the rules surrounding the inventions but the setting is where I found myself with a couple of issues with the main one being a slight clash of worlds. Setting is olde world or early 1900's earth feel to it - wooden ships, carts etc but the Tea Shop seems to be a more modern addition and I personally found that slightly jarring.
There is a small amount of romance but it's a slow build up and is not a major feature.
Overall this was a smooth read (I read it in a day), a great cast of characters with lovely family dynamics, enough action (physical and mental battles of wits) and a mystery to keep one in invested and wanting to know what happens next.
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