Review: The Alchemy of Stone by Ekaterina Sedia

Thursday, January 20, 2011


Book: The Alchemy of Stone
Author: Ekaterina Sedia
Publisher: Prime Books
Release date: July 4, 2008
Source: Local library

Summary: (from Goodreads) Mattie, an intelligent automaton skilled in the use of alchemy, finds herself caught in the middle of a conflict between gargoyles, the Mechanics, and the Alchemists. With the old order quickly giving way to the new, Mattie discovers powerful and dangerous secrets - secrets that can completely alter the balance of power in the city of Ayona. However, this doesn't sit well with Loharri, the Mechanic who created Mattie and still has the key to her heart - literally!

First impressions: I read the first half of this book without stopping. This world is so rich and different and mysterious that I had to keep reading to figure out what was going to happen next. If you like sci-fi or steampunk even in the slightest, you will be hooked from the get-go.

Lasting impressions: The gargoyles were fascinating. Mattie is the heart of the book, but the gargoyles are the soul. I didn't quite understand them, but their presence was always lingering at the back of my mind. The characters and the story are dark, dirty, and complex, but definitely compelling.

Negative impressions: There were a few missteps. I wasn't a fan of the love interest for Mattie, and the "sex" scene between them was awkward at best. I just couldn't get into a man and machine hookup. I also had a hard time following the action at times. I don't know if it was because I am new to the genre or if some scenes were intentionally vague, but I didn't always grasp everything that was happening.

Overall impressions: The best way for me to describe this book is strangely beautiful. Mattie is an automaton, considered a lesser class, despite her emancipated status from her creator. She works as an alchemist and is quite good at what she does, which is what earns her a special benefactor who employs her for complex tasks. It is through this relationship that Mattie is drawn into the political upheaval happening between the alchemists, mechanics, and gargoyles in this world.

Mattie is also recruited for a task by the gargoyles, and maintains a relationship with her creator and mechanic friend, so is necessarily involved with all of these rival factions vying for control of the city. The more she's drawn into the politics, the more involved her assignments, and eventually she has to make difficult choices about who she truly serves. The story unfolds quickly, and I finished this book in two sittings.

I thought Mattie was sweet and different, and tried to suspend my disbelief and avoid asking too many questions about how she was able to think and speak and remember (particularly when her memory becomes an important plot point later in the book). Instead, I just accepted the world as I was reading about it, and it became a really fascinating story.

This was my first exposure to steampunk, and I loved it. This tale was dark, dealing with issues of slavery, class struggles, independence, and abuse. Yet it also had touching moments between friends, and showed the value of sacrifice. Mattie has to endure cruelty and hardship, but she is self-assured and never gives up on herself. Though this certainly isn't a book for everyone, if you're looking for something different you should give it a try.

Rating: 4/5 stars


12 comments:

BookGeek said...

I might have to check this out because a)the cover looks really cool b)I love Battlestar Galactica and c)you did give it a 4 out of 5. I also never read any steampunk before, so this might eba good shot!

Missie, The Unread Reader said...

O.O
A man and machine hookup? I like weird stuff, but that may be too weird for me. If this had been my first steampunk I might have given up on the genre. LOL

Well, that is not true, exactly. The Iron Duke,Rhys, had iron bones. Does that makes him machine too??

Still, this sounds very interesting, and I'm very curious about the gargoyles. I wonder if my local library would carry this title? Looks like it is a good find.

Logan E. Turner said...

@BookGeek - I love this cover! There are a couple of different versions floating around, but I posted this one because it was on the book I read.

@Missie - Yeah, that part was a bit too weird for me. This is definitely on the weirder side of most fiction for me, but you know what other amazing book is super weird? The Wizard of Oz. So you never know.

I got this one from my library, so it's worth checking out if they have it. That way if you don't like it you don't have to feel guilty about not finishing. :)

Laura (All of Everything) said...

Wow that cover is creepy! But this sounds so cool, and I don't even remember if I've read steampunk novels before.
I love finding new books to add to my PTR :]

Amanda the Aspiring said...

Hmm...I don't think I've ever read steampunk. Might be something to try.

Also, I've awarded you the Stylish Blogger award, so if you accept awards/haven't already received this one, you can pick it up here: http://amanda-the-aspiring.blogspot.com/2011/01/special-post-stylish-blogger-award.html =)

Aylee said...

Never heard of this one before but it sure does sound fascinating! The gargoyles especially. Erm, the man and machine hookup sounds weird but still, I am strangely fascinated by even that, haha. I'll have to give this one a try.

The Scarf Princess said...

I've never heard of this book but it sounds so intriguing that I'll be on the lookout for it. I'm now following your site via FF. Feel free to visit me when you have time. I'm a Nebraskan myself and you're in a much more exciting state now.

http://wowfromthescarfprincess.blogspot.com/

Unknown said...

Ok Ok Ok, I admit that I have not read this one but it has been on my radar for awhile. Now to get my hands on it.

Great review... I think you shall consider being allowing me to have you as a guest reviewer for this book. Let me know ;)

Stopping by because I'm a fan of yours, & for hopping fun.

Mad Scientist
http://madsteampunkery.blogspot.com

Kristin said...

Just bought The Secret History of Moscow by the same author...can't wait to read this one as well! Stop by my blog and say hi if you get a chance!

Kristin
MyBookishWays

Bellamay said...

Found you through the hop :) awesome review. I'm ur newest follower

Anonymous said...

I have a love/hate relationship with the world of Steampunk. I love the aesthetics but I can't really get into the literature. I might give this one a try if I can find it in my library. :)

I found you through FF but I'll be back.

You can check out my book blog if you get a chance.

Logan E. Turner said...

Thanks to all the new followers/commenters! I've added you all as well!

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