Friday, November 15, 2013

Gratitude Giveaways Blog Hop!! A Conspiracy of Alchemists, by Liesel Schwarz




Welcome to this stop in the
4th Annual
Gratitude Giveaways Blog Hop,
hosted by the wonderful
"Inspired Kathy" @ 
(Thanks for hosting this hop, Kath!!)



As that special day of giving thanks
approaches, it's time for me to appreciate
you, the wonderful people -- whether or not
you follow my blog -- who drop by and
connect with A Night's Dream of Books
in any way whatsoever !!
So, as my thanks to you, I'm giving
away a hardcover copy of
the Steampunk novel,
A Conspiracy of Alchemists,
by Liesel Schwarz!
(US only this time,  because I have an
extra copy of this book,
and must pay for shipping myself.)


About the Book


A Conspiracy of Alchemists
(The Chronicles of Light and Shadow #1)
Liesel Schwarz
Hardcover, 336 pages
Del Rey, March 5, 2013
Historical Fiction, Paranormal Romance, Science Fiction, Steampunk, Urban Fantasy


Goodreads SynopsisEleanor “Elle” Chance, that is—a high-flying dirigible pilot with a taste for adventure and the heroine of this edgy new series that transforms elements of urban fantasy, steampunk, and paranormal romance into pure storytelling gold.

It is 1903, and the world is divided between light and shadow. On the side of light is a wondrous science that has transformed everyday life by harnessing magical energies to ingenious new technologies. But each advance of science has come at the expense of shadow—the traditional realm of the supernatural.

Now two ancient powers are preparing to strike back. Blood-sucking immortal Nightwalkers and their spellcasting Alchemist allies have a plan to cover the whole world in shadow. All they require is the sacrifice of a certain young woman whose past conceals a dangerous secret.

But when they come after Elle, they get more than they bargained for. This enterprising young woman, the daughter of a scientific genius, has reserves of bravery and determination that even she scarcely suspects. Now she is about to meet her match in more ways than one: a handsome yet infuriating Warlock named Hugh Marsh, whose agenda is as suspect as his charms are annoyingly irresistible.




Excerpt

This was the place where people came to give their souls to fairies.   I watched her step into the café and close the door, at once sealing out the noise and stench of the Latin Quarter behind her.  It was still early in the afternoon and the café was empty.
   She blinked as her eyes adjusted to the dim interior of this place.  The battered paneling of oak trees long dead is always a little disconcerting after the bright crowded streets.
   The one they called Aleix unfolded from the shadows behind the counter.  He wore his long hair bound in a simple braid that made him look slightly Oriental in appearance, but to even the most ignorant there could be no mistaking his race.   He was a Nightwalker.
   They studied one another for a moment.
   "Are you Aleix?" she said.
   "Who wants to know?"  It was more of a command than a question.  He narrowed his eyes as he assessed her, carefully noting the jodhpurs and man's shirt she wore under her leather coat.  Whether she was peer or prey would be measured, considered carefully before he spoke, for that was the Nightwalker way.
   "I'm looking for Patrice.  My name is Elle -- Eleanor Chance.  The pilot."  Her breath caught in her throat as she spoke, as if the words had come faster than she had expected.
   He relaxed his shoulders.  "Upstairs.  The flower house," he said with the briefest of nods.
   To the side of the counter a heavy crimson curtain partly covered the curves of a cast-iron staircase.
   "Shall I go up?" she said.
   He shrugged as if what she did was of no interest to him, but I knew she had been expected.  For no Nightwalker would rise at this hour for the sole purpose of seeing to the task of polishing glasses.
   The soles of her boots left a trial of sawdust from the floor below.  I sensed the whispers of pine and beech rise up from the resonating stairs as she moved over them.  It was a clever thing, this wrought, twisted staircase.  Designed to allow the patrons who frequented this place to enter and leave at will, it held those of us who worked here caged within its iron bars and scrolls.  For few creatures with the old blood in their veins could cross pure iron unharmed.
   When I was still young and living among my people, the Dryad, I once had a different name.  But that was many years ago, at a time when anise and wormwood were nothing more than plants that made up my world.  A time before sacred dreams could be bought for a few sugar cubes.
   My real name is long since forgotten along with so many memories of green.  All that remains of me now is what you see here amongst the coal-fire, stone and dead glass.  For I am La Fee Verte, the keeper of the absinthe drinkers.  But you may call me Adele if you must.
   I saw her for what she was, this young woman with the clear blue eyes and hair like the leaves of the horse chestnut when the season turns.  I saw that she would one day cast no shadow on the narrow path between Shadow and Light.
   Isn't it strange how not even pure iron can stay events once they have been set in motion?  I knew from the moment I saw her she would offer salvation.  But salvation often comes at a price.  Perhaps a price I might have paused to consider a little more closely at the time.  But I was too caught up in my own thoughts to pay heed to the signs.  All I knew was that for the first time in years, I felt hope.      


https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/15849472-a-conspiracy-of-alchemists?ac=1




About the Author


Liesel Schwarz


Liesel Schwarz has an MA in creative writing and is currently completing her doctorate in English and Creative Writing at Brunel University.

A life-long fan of 19th Century Gothic literature, she is a hopeless romantic and loves Victorians, Steampunk, fairies, fantasy monsters, the fin de siècle, and the correct way to drink absinthe. She also likes Medieval stuff, pirates, zombies, space operas and all subjects in between.

Her debut – the first in a series of Edwardian Steampunk novels published by Random House/Del Rey, is out now.

She chooses to live in London because she loves
the weather there.




Online Links





  
Be sure to enter this Gratitude Giveaway!
(Remember, US only this time around.)
Good luck to everyone!






Happy Thanksgiving!!





Be sure to check out
more giveaways at these
participating blogs!!


102 comments:

  1. I have not, but would love to!!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Hey, Gina!

      Yeah, me too! I own this book, but haven't read it yet. I will, though! Thanks for participating! : )

      Delete
  2. Perdidio Street Station and Affinity Bridge were my first two steam punk novels and they opened the door to a whole new genre that I've grown to love.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Hey, Jasmyn!

      I've heard that "Perdido Street Station" is really good, but have yet to read it. This is the first time I hear of "Affinity Bridge", though. Gotta go check it out! Thanks for participating! : )

      Delete
  3. I've actually have been wanting to read this one I love Steampunk

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Hi, Jen!

      Me, too! I do own the book, but have yet to read it. "So many books, so little time", as Frank Zappa used to say...... Thanks for participating! : )

      Delete
  4. I read one; forget the name but it was okay.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Hi, Nancy!

      Well, it definitely looks like "A Conspiracy of Alchemists" is much more than 'okay', so I'm sure you'll enjoy it if you win! Thanks for participating! : )

      Delete
  5. I love steampunk novels. :D My favorite one so far is Innocent Darkness by Suzanne Lazear. :D

    Thanks for the giveaway!!!

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    Replies
    1. Hey, Tiffany!

      You know, I own a couple of them, including "A Conspiracy of Alchemists", but have yet to read them. I haven't heard of "Innocent Darkness". Gotta find out more! You're very welcome for the giveaway. Thanks for participating! : )

      Delete
  6. I haven't read a steampunk novel yet, but I Iove to try new genre.

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    Replies
    1. Hi, Kathy!

      Like you, I haven't yet read a steampunk novel (although I do own this one), but really want to! I think I'll start with "A Conspiracy of Alchemists". Thanks for participating! : )

      Delete
  7. I haven't read one, but this one sounds interesting!

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    Replies
    1. Hi, JJ!

      Yes, it does! I need to read it myself! Lol. Thanks for participating! : )

      Delete
  8. Yes, I read an arc copy of Uncrashable Dakota about a week ago, (it's more of a middle grade novel) and I loved it! Thanks for the giveaway!
    -Jayne

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    Replies
    1. Hi, Jayne!

      Oh, I'm not familiar with that one. I'll check it out right away! You're welcome for the giveaway, and thanks for participating!! : )

      Delete
  9. I haven't read any, but I'm been curious about this genre and would love to read this.

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    Replies
    1. Hi, Renee! Yeah, the steampunk genre is supposed to be terrific! I have to read my own copy of this book. Thanks for participating! : )

      Delete
  10. No I haven't BUT I just won a copy of Steampunk Darcy that I am going to read soon! So I can't wait :)

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    Replies
    1. Hi, Erika! "Steampunk Darcy", eh? Wow. Sounds very, very interesting!! I'll have to check that one out! Thanks for participating! : )

      Delete
  11. I've never tried steampunk, but, I will try anything once, in case I like it!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Hi, Denise!

      I'm sure you will! Thanks for participating! : )

      Delete
  12. I haven't but have been hearing so much about this genre that I'd like to try it. This book sounds really good. As long as it has an HEA and some romance, I'm good to go ;)
    Lori

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    Replies
    1. Hi, Lori!

      I've heard a lot of good things about this genre, but have yet to read it myself. I'm with you on the HEA and romance! From what I know of this particular book, it sure looks like it has plenty of both! Thanks for participating! : )

      Delete
  13. I've never read a steampunk novel. I'm excited to though.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Hey, Nicole!

      I'm with you! Thanks for participating! : )

      Delete
  14. I haven't read one yet, but really am looking forward to it though! ;)

    ReplyDelete
  15. I havent read a steampunk novel.. I do have this book on my wish list to get and it sounds great!! thanks for the giveaway and Happy Holidays!!!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Hi, Sarah!

      I have an extra copy of this book, so I'm giving it away. I know I'm going to enjoy reading it!

      You're very welcome for the giveaway! Thanks for participating, and Happy Holidays to you, too!! : )

      Delete
  16. I've never read a steampunk before. I have really been meaning to check one out this one sounds great

    ReplyDelete
  17. I have! My favorite is the Leviathan series by Scott Westerfeld, which also has a lot of other subgenres mixed in, but I loved it and would definitely like to read more steampunk.

    Brynna

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  18. Hi Maria, this is my first time to your blog, but I appreciate you being part of the hop so I can check it out. In answer to your question, I have read steampunk before. What comes to mind is a steampunk romance I read through Barnes & Noble as a free nook book. It's Viridis by Calista Taylor. I literally stayed up all night just captivated by the tale, bleary-eyed-didn't-want-to-put-it-down captivated. I bought the second in the series as soon as I finished that first one, but sadly, there haven't been any more out yet. I've read others here and there, and while it isn't my favorite genre, I really do enjoy the mix of old world and technology. It's just a lot of fun.

    Carolyn

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Hey Carolyn!

      I agree -- the mix of Old World aspects and technology is a great concept! It's so odd that it works! It's sort of like doing eclectic decorating, I think!

      I'll have to check out these books you've mentioned, since they kept you up practically all night.

      Thanks for participating!! : )

      Delete
  19. Yes, I have read Steampunk. Tarnished is the most recent one I've read.

    -Jen Haile

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  20. Ive never read one but I would definitely like to try one seeing how I love the fashion and gadgets from steam punk :)

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  21. I have not, but I rarely meet a book I don't like so I'm definitely up for giving it a shot!

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  22. Yes, I've read several, though I can't remember titles. Isn't that awful? I read several hundred books each year, so titles are virtually impossible fro me to remember. I do love steampunk, though. One of the books in Stephen King's Gunslinger series had steampunk elements, though I didn't realize that's what they were at the time. I would have loved it even more had I realized what he'd incorporated into th series (if loving it more was possible). Thanks for a great giveaway.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Hi, Michelle!

      You read several HUNDRED books a year?! You are SO lucky!! I have two jobs, so there's no way I can read THAT many.....

      I've been wanting to get into the Steampunk genre myself. I do own this particular book -- in fact, I happen to have an extra copy of it.

      I never knew that Stephen King had incorporated some Steampunk elememts in "Gunslinger". But well, I don't like him anyway, so I wouldn't read any of his books. I did read a story of his, several years ago, and it totally TERRIFIED me!! I've never forgotten the plot, although I have forgotten the title.

      You're very welcome for the giveaway. Thanks for participating!! : )

      Delete
  23. i have not , but i have wanted to. it sounds reallycool!

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  24. Ive read Girl in the Steel Corset and Girl in the Clockwork Necklace by Kady Cross, I loved them!!! Def need to read more steampunk!!
    Mary G Loki

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    Replies
    1. Hi, Sayomay!

      Those are great titles!! I want to read them, too! Thanks for participating!! : )

      Delete
  25. I have not read any YET!! But I love to read everything!!

    Michele
    Insane About Books

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  26. Not yet but I have always wanted to

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  27. I've read the Leviathan series by Westerfeld and enjoyed it immensly

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  28. Yes, I've read about 10. Two were in a series by Beth Ciotta. but I forget the titles (The Clockwork Canary?).

    ReplyDelete
  29. I just got myself Steampunk novel called Fiddlehead but it will be my first. Followed you via bloglovin, great giveaway!
    spicedlatte@hotmail.com

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Hey, Ellie!

      I've never heard of this one, but shall investigate further! Thanks for participating, and you're very welcome for the giveaway!! : )

      Delete
  30. I will give any book a chance I like everything. thank you

    ReplyDelete
  31. I seen a lot of his books but I have not read any , but they do peak my interest

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  32. No, I haven't had a chance to read a Steampunk novel yet, but I'm definitely curious about the genre.

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  33. I love Steampunk! The last one I read was A Study In Silks (The Baskerville Affair #1) by Emma Jane Holloway, and I really enjoyed it :)

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Hi, Chrystina!

      Well, I haven't heard of this one, either. Looks like I'll have to start off a new TBR list -- with ALL Steampunk titles! Lol.

      Thanks for participating!! : )

      Delete
  34. I am sure at one point I have but I am uncertain what "Steampunk" is! I know a while ago, after I read and reviewed one I was sent a message with more Steampunk books to read.

    ReplyDelete
  35. Yes, I've read steampunk novels...my favorite is Soulless by Gail Carriger! I've read 3 books in the series and still have the last 2 book in the series in my tbr pile to catch up on.

    Thanks for the giveaway!

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  36. I haven't read any steampunk yet, but I really want to! I think it's a genre I would LOVE :)

    ReplyDelete
  37. I have read a few steampunk novels and would be interested in this one because of the alchemistry aspect.

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  38. I've read Gail Carriger's novels. I think those count as steampunk right? Or steampunk-ish at the very least. I really love the general aesthetic though, and this book sounds right up my alley :)

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Hey, Kirsten!

      Hmmm....another unfamiliar title. I'm learning about a lot of new Steampunk novels through these comments!! That's just GREAT!! I've heard that "A Conspiracy of Alchemists" is really good. You'll probably enjoy it, if you win! : )

      Delete
  39. I don't think I've read a steampunk book but Gail Carriger's series is on my TBR list! This one definitely appeals to me because it combines fantasy, steampunk, and paranormal romance! Thanks for this amazing giveaway - I would love to win this book!

    Suz Reads

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  40. I've read a couple steampunk books. I admit, it's not my usual genre, but I'd like to try it!

    ReplyDelete
  41. Yes! One of my favorites is The Ministry of Peculiar Affairs series.

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  42. I never have - yet. I think I might like it. I tend to like to explore different genres. I guess only one way to find out! ghwasd at gmail dot com

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  43. I have never read one but I am curious. They seem interesting

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  44. I've read a bunch of steampunk -- the Leviathan Trilogy by Scott Westerfeld was really good.

    Thanks for the amazing giveaway!
    elizabeth @ bookattict . com

    ReplyDelete
  45. Yes! I adored reading Gears of Wonderland (steampunk Alice, highly recommend!)

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  46. I haven't read one, yet, but this one sounds good.

    ReplyDelete
  47. I haven't but I LOVE finding new subgenres to get into!
    Thanks for the giveaway!

    ReplyDelete
  48. I have read several steampunk books and really enjoyed the creativity and mixing of the technology and the Victorian era; one I particularly enjoyed this year was Clockwork Twist by Emily Thompson, another that takes place in a dystopian society with a steampunk element that was very fun was Steele Lilly by Megan Curd. Both very enjoyable reads and definitely recommend them :) Thank you for your generosity and sharing.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Hi, Denise!

      Wow -- more wonderful new books to explore!! I will certainly look these up!

      I love the way you've thanked me for this giveaway: "Thank you for your generosity and sharing." That sounds just lovely!! Thank YOU!! : )

      Delete
  49. I have never read a Steampunk novel but think I would enjoy it

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  50. I haven't read one, but I have a few on my shelf.

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  51. Ihaven't read your books before but I am sure you are a great read. Would love to read.

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  52. I have read Armored Hearts. I love Steampunk

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  53. I haven't read one yet. I think this would be a very good book.

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  54. I haven't read it but I would like to. Thank you for the giveaway.

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  55. I actually don't remmeber.. Oh wait I read his Clockwork Canary and really enjoyed it :D

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  56. I haven't read a straight Steampunk I don't think, but I loved the Gemma Doyle series and I adore the Victorian Era. Plus I'm slightly obsessed with Emilie Autumn so I've no doubt I'd enjoy this book.

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  57. I've read a couple, the most recent was the first book in the Lillian Holmes novels. I think I'd totally love this book!

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  58. No I have never read one but I'd love to try this one.It looks good.
    erma2167@att.net

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  59. I have read steampunk books (or books with steampunk elements) in them before - and some of my favorites are the Alexia Tarabotti series by Gail Carriger.

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  60. I have not but steampunk definitely intrigues me!

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  61. I love steampunk all things about it the clock work prince got me to trueally love it the most

    ty for the chance

    mortalsinn@yahoo.com

    ReplyDelete
  62. I read steampunk a few times a year. The Women of Nell Gwynne’s by Kage Baker is a recent read. I think I would have liked it better if I started with one of the earlier novels of The Company.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Hi, Leslie!

      Sounds great! I'll definitely look that one up! Thanks for participating in the giveaway!! : )

      Delete
  63. A have a couple on my shelf and plan to read them next month because this month has been crazy. This book sounds great, I'll be adding it to my wishlist. Thanks for the chance and Happy Holidays!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Hi, Alina!

      You're very welcome for the giveaway! Thanks for participating, and Happy Holidays to you, too!! : )

      Delete
  64. I have been dying to branch off into the steampunk genre but have yet to do so, unfortunately.

    ArdarelFeuer@gmail.com

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  65. I have never read a steampunk novel, but I have watched some steampunk shows. I love the aesthetic, so I think I would like the novel. Thanks for the giveaway!

    morwesong AT yahoo DOT com

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  66. I have yet to read a steampunk novel, but I totally want to check one out. Thanks!
    katieamanda1(at)yahoo(dot)com

    ReplyDelete
  67. I haven't read any yet, but this one sounds amazing!
    Thanks for the chance to win!

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  68. I have not read one yet but have been curious.The story line appeals to me.

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  69. Yes, I love steampunk! The first books I read that were steampunk were the Vampire Empire trilogy by Clay and Susan Griffith; consequently, they are also my favorites.

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  70. I haven't tried one yet, but I would love to give one a try!

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  71. I read The Girl In The Steal Corset and I believe it's steampunk! Thank you!

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  72. I haven't yet but I love everything I've heard about them!!

    Jolene A

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  73. No i have not read any yet, but this one has caught my interest. I think it will have to be added to my TBR pile.

    ReplyDelete

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