Cursed Alchemist

Isabella Hush #5

by Thea Atkinson

Owing an ancient vampire anything might cost her everything.
As Isabella tries to help Maddox out of a dark funk, she falls into the clutches of an infamous vampire with a vendetta. One bound in blood and death, and more than a little pain.

In a bid to save herself from the immortal Cleopatra, Isabella offers to steal the one thing the vampire wants most: a long lost artifact that can raise her dead lover, Marc Antony.

The trouble is, that relic is in the hands of a goddess, and sneaking anything from that collector is going to put a target on her back for a lifetime. Maybe longer.

And that's only if whatever creature she raises from the dead doesn't take her out first...

Genres: Vampires

Kindle Edition

Published October 26, 2021

About the author

Thea is a NEW YORK TIMES and USA TODAY Bestselling Author. She used to have a black lab at her feet when she wrote, warming up the calves. It can be cold in rural Nova Scotia. Now it's just a cuppa tea keeping her warm.

Her urban fantasy pulses with dark themes and action-packed intrigue. Her characters are always deeply wounded creatures struggling for redemption.

Hang out with her on Instagram or Facebook or follow her on Amazon. Grab a free book at her website.

Find her on the web:
Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/~/e/B0046DIT0U
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theaatkinso...
TT: http://https://www.tiktok.com/@theaat...
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a special shout out to Brenda Levy Tate for the awesome author photo wherein I don't look too dog-lady crazy.

Reviews

[Denise · Rating 5 out of 5]

Cursed Alchemist is a fun read. I loved how the main character Isabella has a unique way of finding trouble just by walking down an alley. She is tenacious when doing the impossible .. if it's finding trouble or trouble finding her she does it very well.
The action is stupendous from the first page all the way through to the ending.. never a dull moment. I couldn't put it down.. when I got to the ending I wanted more to read. I can't wait to see what will happen next.

[Natalie Noblett · Rating 5 out of 5]

Cursed Alchemist starts off not long after the last book ended with Maddox in a funk over what happened with his sister and alchemist friend. He really isn't himself so Isabella takes it on herself to try to make things right for Maddox. You know Isabella, and as usual she only ends up getting herself into more trouble rather than fixing anything!
This a great addition to the Isabella Hush series and the Shadow Bazaar world with some sizzling development between our two favourite characters. Even though Maddox and Isabella manage to resolve one problem, with Kerri's help, the other pressing problem will have to wait until the next book!
Love this series so much.

[Tracy Riva · Rating 5 out of 5]

Getting to the end of a book is so conflicting, because on the one hand you have all this time I you've invested in the book and reaching the end and looking back to see how this fragment our that scene really helped move thing along, but at the same same time you're so sorry to see it go.

From the initial words until the last drawing of breath, I found this to be both enligtening and entertaining..

Atkinson is a master world builder. So often writers of urban fantasy miss the mark and you end up dissatisfied with what they written but This. Book. Is. Stellar.

I can't praise this book enough, through it my love for urban fantasy which had faded away was rekindled and my joy at a well-written book in any genre was restored.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Joanne H · Rating 5 out of 5]

The action and coercion pressure on Isabell was immense due to her being a human thief among paranormals. They play a different game and you could lose your life just being around them. Her dear friend Maddox was a demon hunter and helped keep some of the creatures in hand. Isabella's time almost ran out with the queen of vampires, she promised her something and didn't steal it back to give her. Isabella, Maddox and Kerri, a shape-shifting goddess was fighting several paranormal that was trying to kill them. Lots of action, good book!

[Cali Jewel · Rating 4 out of 5]

Action packed, heart racing, thrilling adventure filled with dangerous and engaging charters, witty dialog, emotional twists and exciting turns. An edge of your seat highly entertaining journey form beginning to end.

[Annalisa · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is definitely a fantastic book. I read everything by this author. She never disappoints me. This one is no exception. It has action, drama, hotties and more. Once more the author has weaved a spell around me and of course I could not put the book down. It is dynamite. Read it.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Jackie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Absolutely loved this book that is so enjoyable. The main character, Isabella, seems to always get herself in trouble. A definite must read story.

[Shelby White · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love me some Isabella. She is such a fun, engaging, vibrant, somewhat humorous, adventurous character and not one to be Hushed. Isabella and Maddox are back for another suspenseful installment of wonderful chemistry, mayhem, drama, danger, vampires, goddess and a depressed man. This is all ties with to a wonderfully written storyline, that’s exciting, exceedingly fun and downright addicting. Isabella has a her hands full, can she pull it all off.?

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Joy Whiteside · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this book. This book grabbed me from the very beginning and would not let me go until the very last page was read. I ended up finishing it in one sitting and when I was done I was needing more. It moves along at a pace which makes for an easy and enjoyable read. The characters are amazing and you cannot help but find yourself falling in love with them and no matter what happens you want to see them succeed. This book is a must read, no doubt about it.

[Evelyn Dotson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Maddox and Isabella team up for another exciting adventure. Maddox is feeling the blues because of their last job. But Isabella has the things to cheer him up…chips and ice cream? LOL…What artifact will she have to take this time? Ramifications…those silly things are nothing to deal with in her case…LOL…until she comes across some familiar vamps and others from past books! More action, excitement, snark, and ways to get out of fixes coming right up…another book in the series that will leave you with thrills and chills~

[Lynall · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is an awesome story. Isabella never has a dull moment, with her escapee cat, and vampires, goddesses, predators and promises made. And Maddox! And don’t forget the demons and the alchemist. There is just so much action and suspense in this story, I couldn’t put it down. I can’t wait for the next instalment.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Christinaraven · Rating 5 out of 5]

Isabella and Maddox are back for more fun and games as things go sideways and Isabella has to go steal an artifact, again. Things go wrong, danger and action abound, and vampires. A few old characters show up to add to all the fun going on too. Glued to end enjoying what these two must face this time around and watching to see how Isabella will get out of trouble this time around. As good as always.

[Denise · Rating 5 out of 5]

Isabella has decided on a complicated plan to help get Maddox out of his depression cycle of sitting around in dirty clothes and eating her go-to comfort food of ice cream and potato chips. The plan first goes wrong when she is confronted by a vampire out back of Fayad's bar. This is then compounded by being rescued by Cleopatra, but only after promising to deliver something she probably can't get, and the disaster cake is then iced with being chased by Absalom and his greys and being forced to escape through the portal in her basement that dumps her into Maddox's office in the Shadow Bazaar. Then things go really wrong...

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Sydney Hopke · Rating 4 out of 5]

Isabella and Maddox are back and he's in a funk after what happened in the last book. When she tries to help him (ice cream and chips cure everything...right?) things go the wrong way, including the cat. They're characters you want more of and in this book there's some interesting developments. Add vampires, favorite or not characters from previous books plus some new ones, surprises and some suspense for a story worth reading. Get comfy and enjoy this story!

[Cath · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is book six of the Isabella Hush series and sees Isabella and Maddox’s roles reversed, after he gave up rescuing his own sister’s soul from Hell and killed his good friend and alchemist Adair, all to save her. Now he is in an even more extreme slump and depression than Isabella ever was after she killed her controlling ex-boyfriend. Maddox is immortal and also a virgin, having sworn an oath of celibacy when he became a protector of the stone like his father. That isn’t to say he hasn’t gained a lot of experience with women over his long life, just never finished the deed, shall we say! After everything went down, it has been weeks since Isabella has seen Maddox, and being human it hasn’t exactly been safe for her to travel into the bazaar where all sorts of kindred would love to prey on her. When he turns up at her apartment in a right state and wants more ice cream and chips, she knows she has to do something to help him get out of this funk. His idea is to take her to bed and break his vows at long last, until she finally manages to stop him, not that she really does, but she knows how important his vow is to him and doesn’t want to cause him anymore pain!
She goes to see her vampire friend Fayed at the bar he runs, but runs into a hungry vampire by the back door instead, only being saved by the ancient vampire that is Cleopatra, who already doesn’t like her. To save her skin, she offers to get Cleo something she really wants, the tears of her lover Anthony, which she knows are at her friend Kerri’s shop up in the attic, due to her nosy thieving ways never actually stopping her from being curious the last time she was there. She is given two days to complete this task and now has to figure out how to sneak the bottle out of Kerri’s shop without her noticing. She is attacked again by an even more dangerous foe when she tries to get Set’s knife back from her landlord’s apartment, and only just makes it through to the portal in her own basement. That leads directly to Maddox’s office in the shadow bazaar and she is warned not to take a single step outside of his home, as tonight all of the kindred are celebrating Hunters Moon, and anyone and everyone is being hunted by predators that night. So it definitely isn’t safe for a human! Her cat came through the portal with her and got out of the house, so Maddox goes looking for it, but so does Isabella when she hears it outside his door, stuck up a tree.
Only problem is she gets led too far away from the door and interrupts a group of half shifted werewolves attacking a human female, so of course she steps in to try and stop them. She has a long night trying to get back to either Kerri’s shop or Maddox’s office, whilst avoiding all the strange creatures she knew nothing of, who are out to hunt freely for any prey they can find. Whoever is at the bottom of the totem pole in terms of prey and predator, will be the loser tonight, as anything goes. She is not the only human out there, as many are indentured slaves to kindred in the bazaar, whilst others have been brought in specially for this one night! The fight for survival takes her back to the clock tower of the soul merchant, Adair’s prison, where he and the demon he made a deal with had been locked up for a long time. Absalom is back at full power in this fight and wants Isabella, as she is still the conduit he needs to get what he wants. There is an enormous showdown in the clock tower, with Absalom and his greys, Maddox and Kerri, the devourer demon and a hapless human, plus an ever changing carousel of images from Adair’s past, as his magical essence is still willing to help Maddox even after death. Lots for Isabella to cope with in this non-stop action adventure, as she makes promises she can’t keep to dangerous people and tries to resist Maddox whilst getting him out of his funk, with a bit of romantic fulfilment to finish off. Still unfulfilled promise to keep carrying the story over to the next book in the series. I received an ARC copy of this book from BookSprout and I have freely given my own opinion of the book above.

[Katheyer · Rating 5 out of 5]

“Cursed Alchemist” is the sixth book in the urban fantasy “Isabella Hush” series by Thea Atkinson (including the short Christmas story “Holiday Magic”), which follows the adventures of the eponymous heroine, a talented thief, with an uncanny talent to getting into very strange situations.

Isabella might have finally broken free of Scottie’s lash, even shaken her binding to the Angel of Hell, but R&R is still far away. As she tries to get Maddox out of his dark depression, Isabella falls prey to Cleopatra, an ancient vampire, who’s only wish is to raise her lover from the dead (yes, that lover 😊). The only way to get back Marc Anthony is an ancient artifact, currently in possession on a goddess. Good news is Isabella is a skilled thief, willing to get the artifact to free herself from Cleopatra, bad news though is that Kerri will be not eager to part with the artifact, and – should she be found out - stealing it will forever put a target in Isabella’s back. But debtors can’t be choosers, obviously being in debt with an ancient vampires, brings with more hindrances than perks 😉, if you think Marc Anthony & Cleopatra were love goals….. think again 😊

This series (which already started on a very high note) keeps on improving with any new instalment, thus – as always - expect the unexpected, wrapped into an action-packed adventure, with a captivating plot, a relatable no-nonsense main character, interesting secondary characters, a pinch of mystery and enough supernatural creatures to meet every urban fantasy fans taste. Well written, with a pinch of cynicism to go with it, that kind Bernard Shaw would call “power of accurate observation” 😉 and always wonderful, eerie descriptions that makes the world comes alive page after page, and the reader feel part of the action at all times.

[Vannessa · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this next book in this series, although it was full of tension throughout!

Maddox is not himself, quite understandably after the events in the previous book in the series and nothing seems to be able to get him out of his slump. When Isabella is chased into her basement, she has no choice but to jump into the pussy gate to the Bazaar in the other realm, the same Bazaar that Maddox owns and kind of runs.

However, this isn't the best of nights for Isabella to be in this place (not that there is ever a good time to be honest), but following an argument, she leaves Maddox's office and chaos ensues. She is literally on the run for her life for the entire night and just when you think she might be safe for a while, something happens to show she is nowhere near safe. There seems to be no-one around to help and trickery is around every corner. There were so many times I was scared for Isabella, thinking this would be her end, but she managed to get through it all somehow, but I have no idea really how she did it all!

Eventually her luck turns, but not by much! This time though Maddox and Kerri are on hand to help out.

I loved the whole idea of the Hunter's Moon - it was dangerous, scary and made me so fearful of what would happen to Isabella. The tower, though, was the scariest part - I wasn't sure how Maddox would deal with all that was going on there, but glad that they managed to work together with Kerri as well as they both did. I loved the romance as well - it felt right after all this time and not contrived in any way. I can't wait to see where this goes now too!

I received a copy of this book through BookSprout by this review is all my own!

[Lene Blackthorn · Rating 5 out of 5]

Isabella's trouble seem to have no end. In her efforts to help Maddox she becomes indebted to an ancient vampire. And if that wasn't enough, after a disagreement, Isabella ends out in the bazaar during the most dangerous night, adding herself to the numbers of the hunted and trying to survive. Now it's only the question which of the dangers are the deadliest..
Another amazing tale in this series, bringing more breathtaking adventures, surprising and dangerous revelations, and dramatic twists in the relationships. The chemistry between Maddox and Isabella is undeniable, yet they haven't overcome all complications to finally admit it, and especially Maddox's past seems to plant seeds of doubts in Isabella's mind. The events in this book bring back Adair's spirit as well as the danger of making bargains with Cleo. It was a crazy ride, and I am definitely curious how she'd get out of the next challenge that arose at the end of the book. My curiosity also zooms on the potential increased heat between our two protagonists, so I am keeping my eyes open watching out for the next book :)

[Douglas Williamson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Our heroine trades one favor to get another, but with each step she is getting in deeper and deeper. Is that a way out or has she passed the point of no return?

This is book six of the series. It works pretty well as a standalone, but would probably be better if read in order. Your call.

This is an urban fantasy story with a very dirty and gritty feel to it. The story is intriguing and quick paced, with an enjoyable storyline and a fascinating setting. The characters are also nicely done and our heroine in particular continues to grow with each story, which I really like. I really like the way the entire series has developed and it keeps getting better. I enjoyed this book quite a bit and look forward to her next adventure.

Highly recommended.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout for review purposes.

[Chey · Rating 4 out of 5]

Isabella in her attempt to help Maddox out if his slump, finds herself ensnared by the infamous vampire Cleopatra. To save herself, she must steal an ancient artifact to bring back her dead love Marc Antony. But danger is everywhere, and she needs to tread very carefully while stealing from a goddess who can and will put a target on her back.

I love this story and the plot of this book. Everything was well written and I loved how Cleopatra is a vampire. Isabella finds herself in a lot of life threatening situations, and her characters ability to get out of them is uncanny.

I would've liked to see a little more dialogue between characters, because there is a lot of descriptive text and inner monolog.

[Tahnia Ross · Rating 5 out of 5]

Isabella is awakened before 5 AM with her cat sitting on her chest, Then she hears noises from the kitchen, and her heartbeat quickens. Isabella grabs her bat and pepper spray. When she creeps around the corner she realizes that Maddox is standing in her kitchen eating ice cream. When things start happening, Isabella is almost caught by the grays sent out by Asmodean, werewolves on the Hunt, vampires out for a meal, and a demon. All during the same night and day. This story includes plenty of action and romance and ends in a HEA (sort of). Very highly recommended.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Crystal Bookreader Amason · Rating 5 out of 5]

The tables have turned and it is Isabella's turn to save Maddox. Isabella has made a deal with Cleo, and has put herself in a precarious situation in doing so.
She finds herself in the Bazaar on Hunters Moon and Maddox doesn't know she's out there. She must find shelter or she may be someone or somethings next meal/plaything. Is she could just make it to Kerri's she may have a chance.
Without giving too much away, she is up against some werewolves, Absalom and his Greys, a very powerful demon, the very unusual creatures of the Bazaar, and a virgin. Never a dull moment and possibly my favorite book of the series.

[Richard Goodrum · Rating 4 out of 5]

An entertaining tale. Isabella has nothing but luck: most of which is bad, but luck nonetheless. She goes from one bad situation to another as a matter of natural course with just enough good luck to stay alive. The ending describes what is left to be done rather than actually completing the story. Perhaps the next title will show what happened.

Action-packed. Entertaining. Scary. Steamy. Tragic. Twisted. Wonderful characters.

I received a review copy of this book from a third party. This is my honest review.

[Shayay · Rating 4 out of 5]

Another entertaining, fun adventure for Isabella! This lady gets herself into some crazy scenarios! Not huge on the Cleopatra element to this story; Isabella needs to steal a magical artifact to bring vampire Cleopatra’s lover, Marc Anthony, back from the dead. I just don’t like the vampire Cleopatra character. Still an interesting supernatural adventure with action and intrigue! Excited for the next one!

[Sissy Satterfield · Rating 5 out of 5]

I think that the Isabella Hush Series is Outstanding! This story brought so much more to this wonderful world and just kept me glued to the story from beginning to the end. I think that this was another great addition to an already wonderful series! Sorry, No Spoilers Here. Give it a read.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Phthon · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow. Isabella and Maddox. There were so many ways that everything could have gone wrong in this book. Yet, despite that, everything worked out! I can’t believe it. It was a fun, nail-biter of a story and I loved every word. I can’t wait to read the next book to find out if Maddox’s plan works the way he thinks it will!

[Marilyn Smith · Rating 5 out of 5]

Isabella and Maddox are back together and it’s great. He’s in a funk and she wants to help him. But to do so will cause a major problem if things go wrong! Will she try and hope for the best? This was a great storyline and can’t wait for the next one!

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Karen · Rating 5 out of 5]

Our snarky, tenacious heroine must use her skills to steal an artifact and help Maddox from his funk. There is danger, intrigue, many paranormal characters, and suspense. I liked this read and found it to be a good addition to the series.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Scarolet Ellis · Rating 5 out of 5]

Cursed Alchemist (Isabella Hush Series Book 6) by Thea Atkinson is a fantastically amazing story that I have loved reading. This is book number six in this fantastically amazing series. I highly recommend this story to everyone who loves reading thrillers.

I read a complimentary Advanced Reader Copy of this book & am voluntarily leaving an honest and unbiased review.

[Kat M · Rating 5 out of 5]

this was a great story I think it was just as strong as the previous entries, which is amazing for a sixth entry. The characters were great and I enjoyed the Isabella Hunt series.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.