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Stone in the Cask
What do you get when you mix alchemy with a scientist?
Stuck between a rock and a hard place.
Galan Faraday juggles his responsibilities as the owner of Faraday distillery, being the head of the Alchemist Guild, and searching for the cure to his best friend’s illness. As if he needed any added pressure, the Feds send a wizard investigator to oversee Galan’s activities as the new head of the Guild.
Monetary discrepancies point toward a traitor in his inner circle, sabotage wrecks his tenuous hold on the distillery, and the real reason his parents have kept their distance spins Galan’s world out of control.
One object could solve all his problems. The philosopher’s stone. But does the mythical object actually exist or is it just a legend? Finding it might mean the end to his troubles or it might complicate things beyond his ability to fix.
Will Galan choose to use the stone to save his best friend, or will he use it in the conflict between the factions?
Stone in the Cask is an urban fantasy thriller. The Alchemist Heir series is written by Kimbra Swain for Argento Publishing.
If you like Jim Butcher, Shayne Silvers, Cameron O’Connell, Hunter Blain, Kevin Hearne, Steve McHugh, Ilona Andrews, Patricia Briggs, Shannon Mayer, or K.F. Breene, you won't be able to put down the highly addictive Alchemist Heir series.
Stuck between a rock and a hard place.
Galan Faraday juggles his responsibilities as the owner of Faraday distillery, being the head of the Alchemist Guild, and searching for the cure to his best friend’s illness. As if he needed any added pressure, the Feds send a wizard investigator to oversee Galan’s activities as the new head of the Guild.
Monetary discrepancies point toward a traitor in his inner circle, sabotage wrecks his tenuous hold on the distillery, and the real reason his parents have kept their distance spins Galan’s world out of control.
One object could solve all his problems. The philosopher’s stone. But does the mythical object actually exist or is it just a legend? Finding it might mean the end to his troubles or it might complicate things beyond his ability to fix.
Will Galan choose to use the stone to save his best friend, or will he use it in the conflict between the factions?
Stone in the Cask is an urban fantasy thriller. The Alchemist Heir series is written by Kimbra Swain for Argento Publishing.
If you like Jim Butcher, Shayne Silvers, Cameron O’Connell, Hunter Blain, Kevin Hearne, Steve McHugh, Ilona Andrews, Patricia Briggs, Shannon Mayer, or K.F. Breene, you won't be able to put down the highly addictive Alchemist Heir series.
222 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 3, 2021
77 people are currently reading
15 people want to read
About the author
Kimbra Swain
74 books332 followersFrom early in life Kimbra Swain was indoctrinated in the ways of geekdom. Raised on Star Wars, Tolkien, Superheroes and Voltron, she found herself immersed in a world of imagination. She started writing in high school, and completed her English degree from the University of Alabama in 2003.
Her writing is influenced by a gamut of authors including Jane Austen, J.R.R. Tolkien, L.M. Montgomery, Timothy Zahn, Kathy Reichs, Kevin Hearne and Jim Butcher.
Born and raised in Alabama, Kimbra still lives there with her husband and 5 year old daughter. When she isn't reading or writing, she plays PC games, makes jewelry and builds cars.
Please visit my Facebook, Twitter and Instagram accounts. Also if you sign up for the newsletter at my website to receive a FREE book: www.kimbraswain.com
Her writing is influenced by a gamut of authors including Jane Austen, J.R.R. Tolkien, L.M. Montgomery, Timothy Zahn, Kathy Reichs, Kevin Hearne and Jim Butcher.
Born and raised in Alabama, Kimbra still lives there with her husband and 5 year old daughter. When she isn't reading or writing, she plays PC games, makes jewelry and builds cars.
Please visit my Facebook, Twitter and Instagram accounts. Also if you sign up for the newsletter at my website to receive a FREE book: www.kimbraswain.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 39 reviews
August 4, 2021
Stone in the Cask is the second book in the Alchemist Heir series and it was even better than the first. I started reading it this morning on a road trip and here I am three states later. I didn't know much about alchemy when I started this series and even less about bourbon but I'm definitely learning. I'm enjoying the characters, the plot twists and the humor. I can't wait for book three.
August 3, 2021
Former professor Galan Faraday returns to his bourbon distillery roots and finds out that not only has he inherited the family business, but that it's part of the alchemical tradition as well. Of course it's not easy when you have enemies you still need to identify and people whose motives aren't quite clear.
The story moves quickly and engagingly. There are places where I paused to laugh out loud and others where I furrowed my brow in concentration trying to figure out what new twists and turns Author Swain was going to put in next.
It's both character and story driven. The characters are engaging and detailed and the plot is well-developed and enjoyable.
If I were a drinker, I'd be lifting a few bourbons in praise of the books.
The story moves quickly and engagingly. There are places where I paused to laugh out loud and others where I furrowed my brow in concentration trying to figure out what new twists and turns Author Swain was going to put in next.
It's both character and story driven. The characters are engaging and detailed and the plot is well-developed and enjoyable.
If I were a drinker, I'd be lifting a few bourbons in praise of the books.
August 2, 2021
The second book is even better than the first. We are learning more about the alchemists and the guild. These characters are fantastic! You will learn Hardy's fate. There are so many things to love. Action, suspense, humor, romance, and jaw dropping twists! You will get some answers but they come with more questions. There is much more to come and I'm loving this unique series!
August 16, 2021
Galan is in the Guild, but is he ready for all that entails? Enjoyed writing this one. :)
August 8, 2021
Not even settled in with his duties in the distillery and heading the guild, everything starts to unravel. The Feds are babysitting him, Skylar has to put distance between them, Martin is being Martin, Hardy is still cursed, the distillery is suffering questionable losses, and both the wizarding and alchemy worlds are convinced his Uncle Augie - and by extension Galan after his uncle's death - has possession of the uber-powerful and illegal Philosopher's Stone. All the while, he's peppered with questions. Can he discern true betrayal from misdirection? Can he finally unlock all of the knowledge trapped in his brain? Is he convinced the stone exists and, if so, can he find it? Can any of the above cure Hardy? And finally, can he unveil the answers to all of the unspoken family secrets responsible for his strange and partially erased upbringing?
Be careful what you wish for, as knowledge is a double-edged sword.
Be careful what you wish for, as knowledge is a double-edged sword.
August 9, 2021
What does Alchemy, Bourbon and a Philosopher's Stone have in common?
Kimbra Swain has continued to pour out another great story.
Galan is determined to heal Hardy at any cost. The feds are watching his every move along with the Guild. Are they waiting for him to fail or want him to succeed? He still has so many memories lost to him and not sure how to regain them. Martin tells Galan that his girlfriend has been stealing money from the company. Things can't get worse, but Galan discovers how to and does get his memories back. And keeps it to himself.
There is so much more to this story. Get your copy and fill in the blanks.
Kimbra Swain has continued to pour out another great story.
Galan is determined to heal Hardy at any cost. The feds are watching his every move along with the Guild. Are they waiting for him to fail or want him to succeed? He still has so many memories lost to him and not sure how to regain them. Martin tells Galan that his girlfriend has been stealing money from the company. Things can't get worse, but Galan discovers how to and does get his memories back. And keeps it to himself.
There is so much more to this story. Get your copy and fill in the blanks.
August 6, 2021
Bad*ss Bourbon Alchemy
Galen has really found himself over a barrel in this one! Someone is still gunning for him, the distillery, and the guild. His best friend hasn't been cured yet, and Galen is going to have to find his way back to the person he was before his memories were taken. Lots of subterfuge, new characters (are they friends or foes?), and a whole mess of alchemy and magic. Get ready for a wild ride!
Galen has really found himself over a barrel in this one! Someone is still gunning for him, the distillery, and the guild. His best friend hasn't been cured yet, and Galen is going to have to find his way back to the person he was before his memories were taken. Lots of subterfuge, new characters (are they friends or foes?), and a whole mess of alchemy and magic. Get ready for a wild ride!
September 4, 2021
All the characters, all the story
Really enjoyed this story. It's great to see a new series grow.
Considering how our main character Galan was thrown into a world of alcohol and alchemy he really grows as a person in this book, in both knowledge and confidence.
With less focus on the supporting characters we continue on a journey of discovery around this new world.
Looking forward to the next in the series
Really enjoyed this story. It's great to see a new series grow.
Considering how our main character Galan was thrown into a world of alcohol and alchemy he really grows as a person in this book, in both knowledge and confidence.
With less focus on the supporting characters we continue on a journey of discovery around this new world.
Looking forward to the next in the series
August 3, 2021
Wow
So Galan’ memories are restored. As he discovers who he is he also figures out his grandfathers final legacy to him. Galan continues to learn about his legacy both on alchemy and also with his distillery. He learns who is friends are and who his true family is. There are many twists and turns and action. I really love this series.
So Galan’ memories are restored. As he discovers who he is he also figures out his grandfathers final legacy to him. Galan continues to learn about his legacy both on alchemy and also with his distillery. He learns who is friends are and who his true family is. There are many twists and turns and action. I really love this series.
August 4, 2021
I love love this series!!!
After the first book I was hooked with Galen and Hardy. Kimbra has created fun crazy characters that are totally suck you into the story great! I was hooked with the first one and this one is even better!! Not sure how she did it but I hope this goes way past 3 or 4 books!!! Grab on and hold tight it's a crazy ride that you won't want to get off!!
After the first book I was hooked with Galen and Hardy. Kimbra has created fun crazy characters that are totally suck you into the story great! I was hooked with the first one and this one is even better!! Not sure how she did it but I hope this goes way past 3 or 4 books!!! Grab on and hold tight it's a crazy ride that you won't want to get off!!
August 4, 2021
Quickly tying for my favorite Kimbra series.
Galan and Skylar are fantastic characters, who live and breathe in my mind. I find myself eagerly turning the page to find out what happens next. If you've never read a book by Kimbra Swain, this isn't a bad series to start with, she will quickly addict you. A fantastic gem added to the Argento line-up.
Galan and Skylar are fantastic characters, who live and breathe in my mind. I find myself eagerly turning the page to find out what happens next. If you've never read a book by Kimbra Swain, this isn't a bad series to start with, she will quickly addict you. A fantastic gem added to the Argento line-up.
August 4, 2021
A wonderful series!!
Alchemy and wizardry are two different things altogether. In these stories, alchemists are in a guild that own bourbon distilleries. There are warring factions in the guild and outside interference from wizards too. It is a story of family, romance, and magic. Set in modern times and completely entertaining!
Alchemy and wizardry are two different things altogether. In these stories, alchemists are in a guild that own bourbon distilleries. There are warring factions in the guild and outside interference from wizards too. It is a story of family, romance, and magic. Set in modern times and completely entertaining!
August 6, 2021
It's always a wonderful thing when an author lets a character grow and change like, you know, real people. A fun read with lots of interest - hidden knowledge, a relative mystery, an unsuspected villain, a friend in dire straits, and a personal relationship quandary. It's enjoyable to watch Galan navigate all this and try to keep his distillery - and himself - alive.
August 7, 2021
Bourbon and intrigue
Kimbra hits it hard. Mystery, romance, conflict, magic, alchemy, are all woven intricately with marvelous characters into a fabulous story. I even raided my bourbon supply, the power of suggestion at work. Looking forward to the third installment. Thanks for a great read.
Kimbra hits it hard. Mystery, romance, conflict, magic, alchemy, are all woven intricately with marvelous characters into a fabulous story. I even raided my bourbon supply, the power of suggestion at work. Looking forward to the third installment. Thanks for a great read.
August 14, 2021
Another alchemy award
Well written characters and interesting plot twists and conspiracies that kept me in suspense right through the end. It isn't often that a new urban fantasy marks a unique twist but this one does with alchemists, wizardry, love family with a smattering of booze, innuendos and hidden conspiracies.
Well written characters and interesting plot twists and conspiracies that kept me in suspense right through the end. It isn't often that a new urban fantasy marks a unique twist but this one does with alchemists, wizardry, love family with a smattering of booze, innuendos and hidden conspiracies.
February 3, 2022
#2 Money, Family, Friends and Wizardry
The geek Professor finally transforms into the person he would have been with his memory intact. Definitely read this series in order. Danger brews along with the alchemist potions and further revelations occur until some major unexpected revels towards the end. Very good.
The geek Professor finally transforms into the person he would have been with his memory intact. Definitely read this series in order. Danger brews along with the alchemist potions and further revelations occur until some major unexpected revels towards the end. Very good.
August 4, 2021
I finished the book in one day, it is that awesome. I love Galan's development, all the twists and turns, and "wait.whaaaat?" moments. I have loved every book Kimbra Swain has written and this series is quickly climbing that list!
August 4, 2021
Great follow up to Flask!
Fantastic storytelling! Loved the plot and all the twists and turns! Glad to see there is a cure to the curse so that friends can get back to being friends!
Fantastic storytelling! Loved the plot and all the twists and turns! Glad to see there is a cure to the curse so that friends can get back to being friends!
August 6, 2021
Even better!
Book 2 even better than the first! I had a really hard time putting this down. I was getting upset with the family for interrupting me lol. Book 3 can't come fast enough!
Book 2 even better than the first! I had a really hard time putting this down. I was getting upset with the family for interrupting me lol. Book 3 can't come fast enough!
August 7, 2021
Excellent followup to the first book
The second in the Flask Master series finds Galan Faraday still trying to cure his bestfriends affliction, trying to regain his memories and of course things go to hell in a hand basket.
The second in the Flask Master series finds Galan Faraday still trying to cure his bestfriends affliction, trying to regain his memories and of course things go to hell in a hand basket.
August 8, 2021
Wow!
I don't know how Kimbra does it, but she's produced yet another get series to read. I can't wait to get sucked into this one a bit more with the next book release later in the month
I don't know how Kimbra does it, but she's produced yet another get series to read. I can't wait to get sucked into this one a bit more with the next book release later in the month
August 11, 2021
Who would have thought distillery and alchemy would work so close together
The second book continues with the efforts to save Hardy and to figure out what is going on with Galen. Such a good read! Cant wait for the 3rd book. Halen's family just keeps the surprises coming!
The second book continues with the efforts to save Hardy and to figure out what is going on with Galen. Such a good read! Cant wait for the 3rd book. Halen's family just keeps the surprises coming!
August 24, 2021
Awesome alchemy and bourbon mixed together
I love reading about Galan's journey. This book takes him further into discovering his heritage. I recommend this book to anyone who loves science, fantasy and of course, bourbon.
I love reading about Galan's journey. This book takes him further into discovering his heritage. I recommend this book to anyone who loves science, fantasy and of course, bourbon.
August 16, 2023
Good book
I enjoyed the book. Like the characters and the story. Took some twists and turns I did not expect. I want to say more about what happens to Galan but don't want to ruin it for anyone.
I enjoyed the book. Like the characters and the story. Took some twists and turns I did not expect. I want to say more about what happens to Galan but don't want to ruin it for anyone.
August 3, 2021
As Galan finds his confidence within his new life and responsibilities, he learns how to mix the various aspects of his life and skills to maximum potential
August 3, 2021
Bait and switch
So many twists and turns in this one and fabled items making their appearance. Galan continues to grow and his confidence is increasing also. Hardy is amazing
So many twists and turns in this one and fabled items making their appearance. Galan continues to grow and his confidence is increasing also. Hardy is amazing
August 5, 2021
Loving Galan’s story
A great next chapter in Galan’s story. I’m so excited to see his character develop! Can’t wait for the next book.
A great next chapter in Galan’s story. I’m so excited to see his character develop! Can’t wait for the next book.
August 5, 2021
Great story
I have found this series to be incredibly interesting. Not only does it include magic, but alchemy, nanotechnology , crystals AND info about Kentucky.
I have found this series to be incredibly interesting. Not only does it include magic, but alchemy, nanotechnology , crystals AND info about Kentucky.
August 6, 2021
Again
Once again sucked into this world so deep that I finished it in one sitting! But that's Kimbra Swain for you!
Once again sucked into this world so deep that I finished it in one sitting! But that's Kimbra Swain for you!
August 7, 2021
Loved it
This book for me had all the feels to it. Made me have a lot of emotion while reading it. Can't wait to see where Galan goes in the next book.
This book for me had all the feels to it. Made me have a lot of emotion while reading it. Can't wait to see where Galan goes in the next book.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 39 reviews