A Calculus of Angels

A Calculus of Angels continues the alternate history saga where Isaac Newton's discoveries in alchemy have transformed 18th century science and society. Set in 1722, the novel follows multiple characters through a drastically altered Europe where alchemical sciences have created new forms of power and warfare. The story takes place in a world where supernatural forces and scientific principles intertwine, creating a unique blend of historical fiction and fantasy. Newton's breakthroughs have led to the development of aetheric engines and powerful weapons, while mysterious beings known as angels have emerged to influence human affairs. The plot spans across a transformed Europe, from the Russian Empire to England, depicting a complex web of political intrigue, scientific discovery, and supernatural conflict. Key historical figures like Newton, Peter the Great, and Ben Franklin operate in this reimagined world where the laws of reality have been fundamentally altered. The novel explores themes of science versus faith, the price of progress, and the relationship between knowledge and power in a reality where empirical science meets mystical forces. It raises questions about humanity's responsibility when wielding forces beyond its complete understanding.

Readers found this sequel to Newton's Cannon more complex and darker in tone. Many appreciated how it expanded the alternate history elements and deepened the magical/scientific system established in book one. Liked: - Historical figure portrayals, especially Ben Franklin and Adrienne - Intricate blend of magic and science concepts - Fast pacing and action sequences - World-building details around malakim and angels Disliked: - More scattered plotlines than first book - Some found multiple viewpoint characters hard to follow - Less focus on Newton compared to book one - Several readers felt lost without reading the previous book first Ratings: Goodreads: 3.9/5 (356 ratings) Amazon: 4.2/5 (21 reviews) "The magic system becomes more fascinating but also more confusing" - Goodreads reviewer "Excellent continuation of the series but requires close attention to follow all the threads" - Amazon review "Historical details and character work shine despite complex plot" - LibraryThing user

The Age of Unreason by Gregory Keyes The first book in the series that introduces Newton's alchemical discoveries and their impact on an alternate 18th century, providing foundation for the world of A Calculus of Angels.

Jonathan Strange & Mr Norrell by Susanna Clarke This novel presents an alternate Napoleonic era where magic exists alongside historical events, blending historical figures with supernatural elements in Georgian England.

His Majesty's Dragon by Naomi Novik Set during the Napoleonic Wars, this novel integrates dragons into military warfare, creating an alternate history where natural science meets fantastic creatures.

The Baroque Cycle by Neal Stephenson This series features Isaac Newton and other historical figures in a complex narrative that interweaves alchemy, science, and politics in the late 17th and early 18th centuries.

The Rise of the Iron Moon by Stephen Hunt The book combines Victorian-era science with otherworldly powers in a setting where strange technologies and supernatural forces shape society.

🔮 The author, J. Gregory Keyes, holds a Ph.D. in anthropology and uses this expertise to create richly detailed historical worlds in his fiction. ⚗️ Isaac Newton, a central figure in the novel, actually spent more time studying alchemy in real life than he did physics, writing over a million words on the subject. 🌍 The year 1722, when the novel is set, coincides with Peter the Great's transformation of Russia into a European power, which adds historical authenticity to the book's global political themes. 📚 The Age of Unreason series consists of four books total: Newton's Cannon, A Calculus of Angels, Empire of Unreason, and The Shadows of God. 🧪 The concept of angels being summoned by mathematical formulas draws parallel to real historical beliefs in the Renaissance period, when scholars often linked mathematics with divine and mystical properties.