An atmospheric fantasy novel that never shies away from complex philosophical topics.
“To an alchemist, the pursuit of knowledge is the most enthralling crusade upon which to embark. The only worthy quest for an endless existence.” Foremost among the alchemists of The Orders, The Rector has filled their purposeful existence by zealously collecting and expanding their vast awareness. As the leader of the group and the only one to achieve all four transfigurations, some might argue that The Rector’s knowledge is comprehensive, the pinnacle of all there is to understand. Yet a change is coming, one that will reshape everything, everywhere, and everywhen. While this tremendous shift is rooted in scholarship, mere information is only the start. Two seemingly insignificant humans stand at the center of this grand transformation and the alchemists commissioned to study and mentor them must work to figure out why. Sent by The Rector are Élan and Verve, alchemists of tremendous experience and renown. As these two beings observe and interact with their designated human subjects, biases are tested, closely held notions are challenged, and consuming desires are fed. With knowledge comes great power, but not all will bear the weight of such enormous responsibility with the same strength of character.
What motivates people? Do our biases and circumstances immutably dictate our viewpoints? Is change the same as progress? And is progress worth the sacrifice? Whether extrinsic or intrinsic, learned or predisposed, we’re all shaped by many factors and The Genesis of Change is an atmospheric fantasy novel that never shies away from complex philosophical topics. It is a bold choice to craft a novel that features a cast of genderless, timeless, indefinable beings, yet Elliot’s prose navigates these challenges handily with language that flows as gently and steadily as the rising sun. Just as The Rector’s assignment presents an enticing enigma for one of the alchemists, this entire novella comes across as a seductive puzzle to readers, unfolding with impressive depth and thoughtfulness. The author effortlessly explains the seemingly unexplainable by using terms readers will understand and appreciate. Sometimes you wish for a book to be made into a film to see a visual representation of the author’s unique vision. However, in this case, particularly within The Towers, the setting is so special and unique that literary composition is the only adequate medium to allow audiences to fully experience the breadth of Elliot’s imagination. With its riveting, darkly suspenseful storyline, The Genesis of Change is a worthwhile novelistic challenge that you’ll keep thinking about long after the last page.
