A review by meauxread
The Scarlet Alchemist by Kylie Lee Baker

5.0

Where should I even begin? This was one of the most captivating and mind-blowing reads I’ve experienced in a long time. The novel, a masterful blend of Chinese mythology and alchemy, pulls you into its intricate world from the very first page.

The story opens with the life of a well-known local alchemist, and the depth the author brings to this character is extraordinary. Through the layers of her story, you slowly come to understand her significance, but it’s not until she begins resurrecting the dead that her brilliance truly shines. The way the author delves into her thought process and the mechanics of her craft is nothing short of mesmerizing. Every detail is so vivid, so precise, that I felt like I was standing beside her, submerged in her watery, faceless realm of magic and mystery. The descriptions are so evocative they almost feel tangible.

And then, just when you think you’ve grasped the story, it takes a sharp, electrifying turn. The plot twists in ways I never saw coming—shifting seamlessly from fantasy to horror, each revelation more chilling than the last. Here’s the kicker (spoiler alert): she’s dead. The alchemist herself is no longer among the living, yet she’s wielding this terrifyingly beautiful necromantic power to bring others back. It’s wild, haunting, and utterly brilliant—in the most spectacular way possible.

The author’s skill is unmatched. The prose, the pacing, the sheer creativity—it all left me in awe. I can’t get over how immersive and unique this story is. And now, I’m counting the seconds until I can dive into The Blood Orchid, the next installment. I’m buying it right now—I can’t wait a moment longer. This author is a genius, and this book is an absolute masterpiece.