Reviewed: November 24th 2021
Released: September 5th, 2018
Genre: Historical Fiction
A legend buried for 2000 years. A woman compelled to uncover the truth.
210 BCE, CHINA. The most powerful emperor China has ever known is on the brink of death. In desperation, he sends his most gifted alchemist and sorcerer on a quest for the mythical elixir of life.
His fleet never returned….
NOW, world-renowned archaeologist Georgia Lee is compelled to hunt for a mysterious man who may hold the secret to the greatest discovery in human history.
Her search takes her on a thrilling journey from an ancient tomb in China, through traditional Japan, to the blistering Australian outback, and the dizzying heights of verdant mountains in tropical Taiwan. But what begins as an investigation into an archaeological riddle turns into something very sinister. Georgia starts to suspect that perhaps she is the one being hunted instead….
Meticulously researched, this is a tale interwoven with rich historical facts to recreate all the drama, intrigue and mystery of East Asian culture.
Helen’s thoughts: 4.5/5
I was quite intrigued to read this book. Ancient chinese history, an archeological quest, and a touch of fantastical sorcery in the hunt for the elixir of life. All things I enjoy reading!
We join Georgia Lee as she discovers proof to validate her recent research just as all her funding is pulled, leaving her in a precarious position both financially and professionally.
A very clever blend of history, riddles and intrigue as Georgia agrees to investigate the rumours surrounding the Chinese Emperor Qin and his faithful alchemist.
Georgia is a feisty character, with her own emotional baggage to contend with as she agrees to take on a new project in return for funding, even if it does feel like she’s sold her soul. Only all is not as it seems and her quest leads her to places she didn’t expect.
Myth and legend combined with historical detail blends wonderfully with the quest, and cleverly fits together. My one gripe is that I did not really like the POV used. It kept pulling me out of the story as I found it odd, the story was narrated so it felt quite removed and not what the character was experiencing. Though that was my personal preference not necesssarily a defect of the writing, as it was very well written.
About the author:
A. H. Wang is a contemporary visual artist and author with a fascination for history and a passion for adventure. Born in Taiwan and raised in Australia, her travels have taken her across five continents and dozens of countries. Throughout her journey, she has developed a sincere appreciation for local cultures and the lore of ancient civilisations.
As well as making art and writing, you will find her deeply involved with her meditation practice. In a previous life, she was also a scientist, an engineer, a holistic counsellor, and a Reiki Master. She now lives in Taipei, Taiwan, with her husband.
To sign up to her mailing list for all updates on book releases, giveaways and freebies, go to: http://www.AHWangAuthor.com
You can purchase The Imperial Alchemist via Amazon:
Link to book on Amazon UK: eBook | Paperback
Link to book on Amazon US: eBook | Paperback
If you enjoy also fantasy books then you will love my books which are available in eBook or paperback: Book One: Sentinals Awaken. Book Two: Sentinals Rising. Book Three: Sentinals Justice. Sign up to my newsletter and download a free novella called Sentinals Stirring and get notified when my next books are published.
Helen Garraway 