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Dark Alchemy: House of Cards
The traps have been sprung, the secret is out, and the house of cards is falling. As the empire crumbles, Mattie and Dimitri fight for survival and a love that defies transformation.
395 pages, Kindle Edition
Published March 7, 2026
759 people are currently reading
16 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 46 reviews
Review of advance copy received from Author
Love this series. Love being a pre-reader. The series gets better and better.
March 13, 2026
Tired of this storyline
Spoilers- I don't like the storyline with the 8. I don't like that almost the entire book was focused on Mattie and Dimitri. I just don't know how long I want to keep reading. I loved the first 80 or so books, but I hate the island. I hate everything it stands for and I don't want it to be the focus of my reading. Do I want Mattie and Dimitri to have a happy ending? Absolutely. But I desperately want to read about Annani's happy ending. What happened to all the other couples? What about Arzoo's and Rubon's wedding? What is going on with the potential dormants Carol and Lokan have been helping? What about Edgar and Angelica and her entire family of dormants that seems to be completely forgotten about? I feel like it is just going to continue to be drawn out while I'm forced to "read" (scroll through) about Dave forcing Mattie and Dimitri into being basically a throuple. There are so many storylines that have been started and ignored/dropped. I want to read those. I don't want to read about an island and the disgusting culture. Constantly reading about the enslavement and lack of human rights is wearing on me. This went from a series I absolutely could not wait to read to a book I scroll and speed read through. I'm not saying it all needs to be sunshine and rainbows, but goodness I struggle with just how dark and hopeless it seems to have gotten.
Spoilers- I don't like the storyline with the 8. I don't like that almost the entire book was focused on Mattie and Dimitri. I just don't know how long I want to keep reading. I loved the first 80 or so books, but I hate the island. I hate everything it stands for and I don't want it to be the focus of my reading. Do I want Mattie and Dimitri to have a happy ending? Absolutely. But I desperately want to read about Annani's happy ending. What happened to all the other couples? What about Arzoo's and Rubon's wedding? What is going on with the potential dormants Carol and Lokan have been helping? What about Edgar and Angelica and her entire family of dormants that seems to be completely forgotten about? I feel like it is just going to continue to be drawn out while I'm forced to "read" (scroll through) about Dave forcing Mattie and Dimitri into being basically a throuple. There are so many storylines that have been started and ignored/dropped. I want to read those. I don't want to read about an island and the disgusting culture. Constantly reading about the enslavement and lack of human rights is wearing on me. This went from a series I absolutely could not wait to read to a book I scroll and speed read through. I'm not saying it all needs to be sunshine and rainbows, but goodness I struggle with just how dark and hopeless it seems to have gotten.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I absolutely love this series and it keeps getting better and better with each new trilogy we read! This is the second book for Mattie and Dimitri.
There were 3 explosions at the mansion, they say it was a gas leak, but that doesn’t seem likely…
Mattie finally got the transfer to the lab and is working as the lab assistant. She has also changed her living quarters to the lab with Dimitri as well. Meanwhile, Tarin, the immortal that attacked Mattie and Dimitri at the bar turns up dead with his heart ripped out of his chest. This sets the whole island on edge because he could only have been killed by another immortal but who?
Strange things are happening on the island and the brothers are all 4 there and meeting together. What is that about and where is Navuh?
This was a fantastic read and left me so excited for the next book for Mattie and Dimitri!
There were 3 explosions at the mansion, they say it was a gas leak, but that doesn’t seem likely…
Mattie finally got the transfer to the lab and is working as the lab assistant. She has also changed her living quarters to the lab with Dimitri as well. Meanwhile, Tarin, the immortal that attacked Mattie and Dimitri at the bar turns up dead with his heart ripped out of his chest. This sets the whole island on edge because he could only have been killed by another immortal but who?
Strange things are happening on the island and the brothers are all 4 there and meeting together. What is that about and where is Navuh?
This was a fantastic read and left me so excited for the next book for Mattie and Dimitri!
March 10, 2026
More twists and turns
This is Matti and Dimitri's story. Kian is
faced with a difficult decision will he abide by his mothers plan to release Navah or wait and possibly lose his mother's first love. Meanwhile, Matti and Dimitri are stuck on the dormers island with Loshi running things and Dave the collection of 8 deciding to change the rules for Petrov, Dimitri and Matti. Tony transitions well with Shira on his side while he still more than cares about the mother of his baby. Kian wants the five pods from the mansions basement and is not yet ready to get them from the island to Los Angeles where his mother's clan lives. Dave wants to set a deal with Dimitri, while Dimiri is thinking about it, Matti may just propose another deal. They all have their own agendas that will somehow come together in the end. This arc is not done we will find out more in the next book.
This is Matti and Dimitri's story. Kian is
faced with a difficult decision will he abide by his mothers plan to release Navah or wait and possibly lose his mother's first love. Meanwhile, Matti and Dimitri are stuck on the dormers island with Loshi running things and Dave the collection of 8 deciding to change the rules for Petrov, Dimitri and Matti. Tony transitions well with Shira on his side while he still more than cares about the mother of his baby. Kian wants the five pods from the mansions basement and is not yet ready to get them from the island to Los Angeles where his mother's clan lives. Dave wants to set a deal with Dimitri, while Dimiri is thinking about it, Matti may just propose another deal. They all have their own agendas that will somehow come together in the end. This arc is not done we will find out more in the next book.
March 8, 2026
Mind blowing!
This is a really getting deep! What stood out to me most is watching DAVE’s evolution. You can feel something shifting in him—almost like he’s becoming more aware of autonomy and choice instead of the collective. That hints at how freedom might eventually ripple outward to Demitri, Mattie, and Petrov as well. I’m seeing Dave as a positive force.
And then there’s the big lingering question that keeps you wanting more: will Demitri actually say yes to DAVE’s request? That moment adds such an interesting layer of tension and possibility. It’s the kind of plot thread that makes you pause and think about where the story could go next.
Overall, Isabell has done it again! It’s a suspenseful read with great plot twists, and it definitely leaves you wanting more!
This is a really getting deep! What stood out to me most is watching DAVE’s evolution. You can feel something shifting in him—almost like he’s becoming more aware of autonomy and choice instead of the collective. That hints at how freedom might eventually ripple outward to Demitri, Mattie, and Petrov as well. I’m seeing Dave as a positive force.
And then there’s the big lingering question that keeps you wanting more: will Demitri actually say yes to DAVE’s request? That moment adds such an interesting layer of tension and possibility. It’s the kind of plot thread that makes you pause and think about where the story could go next.
Overall, Isabell has done it again! It’s a suspenseful read with great plot twists, and it definitely leaves you wanting more!
March 7, 2026
Mattie and Dimitri's second book
This is Mattie and Dimitri's second book and trouble finds them. Dave becomes an unexpected ally. Dimitri is working through the changes he is going as a new immortal.
On the island, there are explosions, power struggles and intrigue. So much is happening on the island and Losham is in a bit of trouble.
Navuh is being his typical self. Will Navuh ever change?
This is a great series. You really need to read right from book one on to get all of the backstories and understand who all of the players are. It is well worth the effort.
This is Mattie and Dimitri's second book and trouble finds them. Dave becomes an unexpected ally. Dimitri is working through the changes he is going as a new immortal.
On the island, there are explosions, power struggles and intrigue. So much is happening on the island and Losham is in a bit of trouble.
Navuh is being his typical self. Will Navuh ever change?
This is a great series. You really need to read right from book one on to get all of the backstories and understand who all of the players are. It is well worth the effort.
March 7, 2026
Losham starts to find out the consequences of destroying the enclosure which sent an alert to all his brothers. How long will Losham be able to hang on to his control of the island? One of his schemes is to have Dimitri and Petrov a new project to work on which was spurred by his suspicions about Dimitri. Dave becomes more prominent in Mattie and Dimitri’s lives as they provide protection. Then there is Dave’s proposal at the end of the book that could be a way off the island but at what cost? What will Dimitri do? I cannot wait to find out more.
March 10, 2026
Love this Series!!!!
Another great chapter in the Children of the God series! So many exciting changes happening on Navuh’s island. Losham is struggling to keep control when his brothers arrive and challenge him. Dave has some surprising changes taking place and Dimitri & Mattie are facing challenges to their love and security! The Clan are facing challenges as well with Annani and Kian trying to rescue Khiann. If you’re looking for an exciting interconnected series of great characters and fabulous storylines this is for you!
Another great chapter in the Children of the God series! So many exciting changes happening on Navuh’s island. Losham is struggling to keep control when his brothers arrive and challenge him. Dave has some surprising changes taking place and Dimitri & Mattie are facing challenges to their love and security! The Clan are facing challenges as well with Annani and Kian trying to rescue Khiann. If you’re looking for an exciting interconnected series of great characters and fabulous storylines this is for you!
March 17, 2026
Could not put this book down…a must read!
Dark Alchemy is one of those stories that pulls you in quickly because of the characters and the tension between them. While reading, I found myself really drawn into what was happening with Mattie and Dimitri. Mattie is trying to understand who she really is and where she belongs, which makes her a very relatable character. Dimitri stands out because of how loyal and protective he is, especially when everything around them starts becoming more dangerous and uncertain. I cannot wait for the next book to drop.
Dark Alchemy is one of those stories that pulls you in quickly because of the characters and the tension between them. While reading, I found myself really drawn into what was happening with Mattie and Dimitri. Mattie is trying to understand who she really is and where she belongs, which makes her a very relatable character. Dimitri stands out because of how loyal and protective he is, especially when everything around them starts becoming more dangerous and uncertain. I cannot wait for the next book to drop.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Dark Alchemy: House of Cards, Book 105 of the Children of the Gods series by Isabell Lucas @itlucas_author - You must read this book serial in order from book 1!
OMG! What a fabulous 2nd book about Mattie & Dimitri! Tropes: Contemporary, Paranormal (Gods/Goddesses/Aliens), Male/Female, Is Khiann Dead?, Overall Storyline Arc For The Series & a cliffhanger for the last part of this trilogy/continuing this serial!
OMG! What a fabulous 2nd book about Mattie & Dimitri! Tropes: Contemporary, Paranormal (Gods/Goddesses/Aliens), Male/Female, Is Khiann Dead?, Overall Storyline Arc For The Series & a cliffhanger for the last part of this trilogy/continuing this serial!
March 11, 2026
Superb
The danger for Dimitri and Mattie is growing. Mattie is terrified of leaving the security of the lab because of her fear of Tarik and his companions.
Losham's position as Navuh 's fill-in tenuous. Meanwhile, Annani and Kian continue the chess game of matching wots with the diabolical but injured Navuh.
I don't want to give any spoilers away, but I will say that disturbing, intense violence occurs on the island, and there may be long reaching ramifications.
The danger for Dimitri and Mattie is growing. Mattie is terrified of leaving the security of the lab because of her fear of Tarik and his companions.
Losham's position as Navuh 's fill-in tenuous. Meanwhile, Annani and Kian continue the chess game of matching wots with the diabolical but injured Navuh.
I don't want to give any spoilers away, but I will say that disturbing, intense violence occurs on the island, and there may be long reaching ramifications.
February 18, 2026
This one isn’t as fast paced as most of the others lately, it’s a lot of setting up but changes absolutely nothing.
The anticipation!! The pieces are moving to one epic confrontation and I am here for it.
You have to start at book one but they quick reads and come out constantly.
***Received this from the author in exchange for a fair and honest review***
The anticipation!! The pieces are moving to one epic confrontation and I am here for it.
You have to start at book one but they quick reads and come out constantly.
***Received this from the author in exchange for a fair and honest review***
Review of advance copy received from Author
This series somehow keeps getting better and better. After over 100 books you would think it would start to get old, but Lucas somehow finds new ways to reel us in and keep us guessing at the same time. I love the foreshadowing to the crossover potential as well. As always, I'm eagerly waiting the next installment!
March 7, 2026
💕 Read the Book. WOW!💕
Wow, Wow and WOW!!!
Clear you schedule Now and READ THE BOOK💕This is the one and it has it all, everything we have come to expect from the amazing I. T. Lucas. She NEVER disapoints us and even gives us early releases.
BRAVO!
💕Read the book...right now💕
Good news April 11th & 18th are just around the corner.
Wow, Wow and WOW!!!
Clear you schedule Now and READ THE BOOK💕This is the one and it has it all, everything we have come to expect from the amazing I. T. Lucas. She NEVER disapoints us and even gives us early releases.
BRAVO!
💕Read the book...right now💕
Good news April 11th & 18th are just around the corner.
March 7, 2026
brilliant as always
Having read all 105 books twice I can only say the author is brilliant, not only is it a book of brilliant and interesting fiction it opens the mind to facts , the ancient belief in immortals and Gods , also introduces how in many parts of the world women are abused , trafficked and have no say in their lives
Having read all 105 books twice I can only say the author is brilliant, not only is it a book of brilliant and interesting fiction it opens the mind to facts , the ancient belief in immortals and Gods , also introduces how in many parts of the world women are abused , trafficked and have no say in their lives
March 7, 2026
Suspenseful and so exciting!
Another exciting and suspenseful chapter in the Children of the Gods series. Dimitri and Mattie's story continues but with some very unexpected twists that you will not see coming. We still don't know if Khiann is alive in stasis and if or when he can be rescued, but the conditions are coming together to make it a reality. A must read!
Another exciting and suspenseful chapter in the Children of the Gods series. Dimitri and Mattie's story continues but with some very unexpected twists that you will not see coming. We still don't know if Khiann is alive in stasis and if or when he can be rescued, but the conditions are coming together to make it a reality. A must read!
March 9, 2026
If you have made it this far, you shouldn't need a review
Book 105! Every one of these books are AMAZING! Only issue is that they are SO GOOD that you start getting pissed that it takes SO LONG to get the next one. Fortunately, Lucas never disappoints, making each one better than the last. Settling in for the month long wait and having it scheduled in my calendar.
Book 105! Every one of these books are AMAZING! Only issue is that they are SO GOOD that you start getting pissed that it takes SO LONG to get the next one. Fortunately, Lucas never disappoints, making each one better than the last. Settling in for the month long wait and having it scheduled in my calendar.
March 9, 2026
105 Dark Achemy
Interesting direction! The hive collective "Dave" has become more intriguing. Can't wait for 106! Annani's trying to hold it together with the possibility of being reunited with her beloved, always something happening to prevent it! I am eagerly awaiting that storyline to unfold as well!
Interesting direction! The hive collective "Dave" has become more intriguing. Can't wait for 106! Annani's trying to hold it together with the possibility of being reunited with her beloved, always something happening to prevent it! I am eagerly awaiting that storyline to unfold as well!
March 11, 2026
An Absolute Must Must Read
One hundred and five books read. It never looses interest, it never looses the characters. It not only adds new adventures but it never looses the families involved. This is one of the best book series I’ve ever read and I can’t wait till book 106 comes out. Thank you for writing such a great great series.
One hundred and five books read. It never looses interest, it never looses the characters. It not only adds new adventures but it never looses the families involved. This is one of the best book series I’ve ever read and I can’t wait till book 106 comes out. Thank you for writing such a great great series.
March 13, 2026
Another homerun
I'm on the edge of my seat. I can hardly wait for the next book! When I tell people there are over a hundred books in this series they look at me with open mouths. I try to explain its not just books but a world I live in with each book! Ms Lucas I love your imagination and hope it never ends!
I'm on the edge of my seat. I can hardly wait for the next book! When I tell people there are over a hundred books in this series they look at me with open mouths. I try to explain its not just books but a world I live in with each book! Ms Lucas I love your imagination and hope it never ends!
March 7, 2026
Building a foundation
This one is more in depth of the on going issues on the island. It is good but I don't think as good as previous books. Not to say it wasn't good, just more like laying down groundwork or a prequel of what is coming in the next round.
This one is more in depth of the on going issues on the island. It is good but I don't think as good as previous books. Not to say it wasn't good, just more like laying down groundwork or a prequel of what is coming in the next round.
March 7, 2026
Continues to be my favourite for a reason
I love this whole series, I am still genuinely excited when the next book drops, it's the only series I stop another book mid read for. This did not disappoint, loved it and can't wait for the next to arrive!!
I love this whole series, I am still genuinely excited when the next book drops, it's the only series I stop another book mid read for. This did not disappoint, loved it and can't wait for the next to arrive!!
March 8, 2026
Another great book in this series. Unexpected scenarios and occurrences make this an interesting book. I am eager to see how these other characters fit into what's happening with Nava and the clan. It's gonna be lots of twist to put it all together!
March 10, 2026
Again, an exciting series
I hate being redundant with my reviews but this 105th book is as exciting as the books at the beginning of the series. I say this every time and I enjoy the twists and turns that aren't expected..
I hate being redundant with my reviews but this 105th book is as exciting as the books at the beginning of the series. I say this every time and I enjoy the twists and turns that aren't expected..
March 10, 2026
This book is number 105 in this ongoing series and I am as invested in the storyline as I was after book 1.
The introduction of new characters means the storyline never gets stale and is always interesting and never predictable.
The introduction of new characters means the storyline never gets stale and is always interesting and never predictable.
March 10, 2026
How to go about accepting the unknown
Very intense situations. How to handle compromising to get what you want. Should I or should I not. Within each character this is what is needed, trust factors.
Very intense situations. How to handle compromising to get what you want. Should I or should I not. Within each character this is what is needed, trust factors.
March 12, 2026
Wow! Fascinating and terrifying…
No spoilers here…read it! The story twists and turns in many so directions that keep you wanting more! Emotions run rampant in as many directions, and then there’s that’s terrifying bt alluring offer…
No spoilers here…read it! The story twists and turns in many so directions that keep you wanting more! Emotions run rampant in as many directions, and then there’s that’s terrifying bt alluring offer…
March 13, 2026
The New Characters Are Great
Dark Alchemy is book 105 of I.T. Lucas' The Children of the Gods series. Its amazing that even after 105 books the story is still fresh and full of amazing new characters. Every book will draw you in and have you wanting more.
Dark Alchemy is book 105 of I.T. Lucas' The Children of the Gods series. Its amazing that even after 105 books the story is still fresh and full of amazing new characters. Every book will draw you in and have you wanting more.
March 14, 2026
3.75 stars
One of my favourites in the series so far. I absolutely love Dimitri! Exactly my type of hero/love interest/man. Dave is also fascinating. And this is the first time in a long time that one of the sex scenes has actually had an impact on me, and I didn’t just skip it. More in this vein, please.
One of my favourites in the series so far. I absolutely love Dimitri! Exactly my type of hero/love interest/man. Dave is also fascinating. And this is the first time in a long time that one of the sex scenes has actually had an impact on me, and I didn’t just skip it. More in this vein, please.
March 13, 2026
Book 105!! Yeah, we're team Dave!
I lowkey hope Dimitri take Dave up on his offer. (And can I say a kinda see them all leaving that island together 💁🏾♀️)
Just want them to do their own thing and bypass the Clan at this point. Sorry, not sorry!
I lowkey hope Dimitri take Dave up on his offer. (And can I say a kinda see them all leaving that island together 💁🏾♀️)
Just want them to do their own thing and bypass the Clan at this point. Sorry, not sorry!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 46 reviews