When Tudor explorers returned from the New World, they brought back a name out of half-forgotten Viking legend: skraylings. Red-sailed ships followed in the explorers’ wake, bringing Native American goods – and a skrayling ambassador – to London. But what do these seemingly magical beings really want in Elizabeth I’s capital?Mal Catlyn, a down-at-heel swordsman, is seconded to the ambassador’s bodyguard, but assassination attempts are the least of his problems. What he learns about the skraylings and their unholy powers could cost England her new ally – and Mal Catlyn his soul.File Under: Fantasy [ Midsummer Magic | Skraylings | Double Trouble | Comedy of Terrors ]_____“In her terrific debut novel, Anne Lyle conjures up a magical Elizabethan England of seedy glamour, long shadows, pulsating romance and heart-stopping adventure. The Alchemist of Souls is the calling card of a great new talent in the fantasy field.” - Mark Chadbourn, author of The Sword of Albion“In her debut, The Alchemist of Souls, Anne Lyle creates an alternate Elizabethan England done right. A world where history meets fantasy in the streets, and where neither emerges unscathed. With a twisting plot, endearing characters, fast-paced action, and truly unique and alien “fey”, Lyle steps up and gives notice to the genre. No wilting faerie queens and tortured knights here: this is how historical fantasy gets dirty. A great first installment in a promising new series.”— Douglas Hulick, author of Among Thieves“It’s always a pleasure to encounter a debut fantasy novel that combines storytelling verve with inventive turns of phrase.” Four Stars.- SFX Magazine“I would definitely rate Alchemist of Souls as one of the best novels of the year and I highly recommend that everyone go and grab the novel when it is released.” - Shadowhawk, The Founding Fields.“With an effective mix of espionage, backstage drama, and mystery, Lyle provides compelling drama in an intriguing setting.”- Publisher’s Weekly“Murder, mayhem and intrigue at the court of Elizabeth I. All this and magic too makes for a great read.”- Mike Shevdon, author of Sixty-One Nails