Step into a world where flames whisper secrets and spirits linger in the ashes. Brimstone by Cherie Priest is a mesmerizing dark historical fantasy that transports readers to the 1920s, a time simmering with mythology, mystery, and magic. Written by the acclaimed author known for Maplecroft and Boneshaker, this 2017 novel has cemented its place as a standout in the Mythology and Fantasy genre. As of March 25, 2025, Brimstone continues to captivate fans with its blend of real history and supernatural intrigue, feeling like ancient legends reborn in a modern context. Let’s explore why this fiery tale is a must-read for anyone who loves fantasy, and why it deserves a spot on your bookshelf or e-reader.
A Tale Forged in the Heat of History
Brimstone opens in the aftermath of the Great War, introducing us to Tomás Cordero, a veteran whose life was forever altered by his use of a flame projector—a devastating weapon that spewed liquid fire. On the battlefield, it was a tool of destruction, but for Tomás, it became a curse that burned his soul as much as his enemies. Back home, he grapples with grief over his wife, lost to the influenza pandemic, and nightmares that manifest as uncontrollable fires. These aren’t random blazes; they’re a haunting connection to his past, a bridge between reality and the supernatural.
Half a world away, in Cassadaga, Florida, Alice Dartle experiences these same flames in her clairvoyant visions. Unlike the typical damsel in distress, Alice is a fierce, bourbon-drinking witch-in-training with a sharp wit and a determination to uncover the truth behind her visions. Cassadaga, known as the “Psychic Capital of the World,” is a real town that Priest transforms into a mystical hub, perfect for a story like Brimstone. The two protagonists are drawn together by an ancient force, their lives colliding in a dark fantasy odyssey that feels as epic as any myth carved from brimstone itself.
The Mythic Core of Brimstone
What sets Brimstone apart in the crowded field of fantasy literature? It’s the seamless fusion of historical accuracy with fantastical elements. The flame projector isn’t just a war relic—it’s a mythic artifact, echoing stories of Prometheus stealing fire from the gods or the dragons of old whose breath could level cities. Alice’s clairvoyance, on the other hand, links her to a lineage of seers and spell-weavers, suggesting a heritage that stretches back to ancient oracles. Together, they confront a malevolent spirit born centuries ago, its hatred so potent it transcends death. This isn’t merely a ghost story; it’s a legend of fire, resilience, and redemption, making Brimstone by Cherie Priest a standout in dark fantasy.
The book’s mythology is deeply rooted yet accessible. Readers familiar with Greek myths, Norse sagas, or even Native American fire legends will find echoes here, but Priest crafts a unique narrative that feels fresh. The antagonist, a vengeful entity tied to flames, feels like a dark deity from forgotten times, its origins shrouded in mystery but its presence palpable. This crafted mythos elevates Brimstone beyond typical horror, positioning it as a tale that could have been whispered around campfires for generations.
Characters That Burn Bright
At the heart of Brimstone are Tomás and Alice, two characters so vivid they leap off the page. Tomás isn’t the traditional hero—he’s a man broken by war, his hands stained with ash, his mind a battlefield of guilt and love. His fires are both a curse and a cry, a way to connect with his lost wife and a symbol of his inner turmoil. His journey is one of redemption, making him relatable even in his most fantastical moments.
Alice, meanwhile, is a spark of defiance. Young, flawed, and fiercely independent, she’s on a pilgrimage to Cassadaga to harness her clairvoyant gifts. Her character could easily fit into a classic fantasy saga, yet she remains grounded in the 1920s setting, sipping bourbon and facing her fears with a mix of courage and skepticism. Their relationship isn’t romantic but deeply human—a quiet bond forged by shared visions and a common enemy. This connection anchors the supernatural elements, ensuring Brimstone feels real even as it soars into the fantastical.
Cassadaga: A Living, Breathing Setting
Cassadaga isn’t just a backdrop; it’s a character in its own right. This real Florida town, famous for its spiritualist community, becomes a fantastical haven where the veil between worlds thins. Priest’s research shines through, painting a vivid picture of the 1920s with flapper dresses, jazz music, and flickering lanterns, all infused with an otherworldly air. It’s less like the magical wardrobes of Narnia and more like a shadowed grove where ancient gods might still linger.
For readers interested in how setting shapes a story, Cassadaga offers a perfect case study. Its reputation as a psychic hub adds authenticity to Brimstone’s blend of history and myth, making it a compelling stage for the novel’s events. Whether you’re a history buff or a fantasy fan, this setting draws you in, creating a sense of place that’s as memorable as the characters themselves.
Fire as a Symbol of Power and Destruction
Fire is the pulsing heart of Brimstone, serving as both plot device and profound metaphor. It’s a force Tomás both wields and fears, a bridge Alice crosses in her dreams, and a symbol with roots in mythology. Think of Hephaestus forging weapons in his volcanic forge or the phoenix rising anew from ashes—fire in Brimstone is alive, a spirit with intent. It represents creation and ruin, hope and despair, tying the story to universal themes that resonate deeply.
The book’s villain, a fire-wrought entity, embodies this duality. Its ancient origins and relentless hatred make it a formidable foe, but also a mirror to Tomás and Alice’s struggles. This isn’t random horror; it’s a carefully constructed mythos that gives Brimstone depth and staying power, distinguishing it from other dark fantasy novels.
A Slow Burn to a Blazing Climax
The pacing of Brimstone is deliberate, starting like embers catching before roaring to life. Priest builds tension gradually, layering Tomás’s despair and Alice’s determination until their paths converge in a finale that’s both eerie and uplifting. Some readers might find the early chapters slow, but this deliberate pace allows the mythology to simmer, making the payoff all the more satisfying.
The climax ties together every thread—fire, love, vengeance, and hope—into a knot that feels earned. It’s not a simple happy ending, but a resolution that respects the characters’ journeys and the world they inhabit. For those who enjoy stories that build gradually, Brimstone is a prime example. You can explore more about slow-burn narratives in our related article, “Tales of the Slow Burn: Fantasy That Builds,” which offers insights into why this style works so well in fantasy.
Why Brimstone Fits Perfectly in Mythology and Fantasy
Brimstone isn’t your typical swords-and-sorcery fantasy. It’s subtler, darker, and deeply rooted in a specific historical moment, yet it soars into the realm of myth and magic. The supernatural elements aren’t flashy; they’re personal, tied to human pain, power, and resilience. Cassadaga’s spiritualists feel like modern counterparts to ancient druids, while Tomás’s fire could be seen as a cursed gift from some forgotten deity.
This grounding in reality, combined with its mythological undertones, makes Brimstone a bridge between genres. It’s a story that could have been told centuries ago, yet it feels fresh and relevant in 2025. For a deeper understanding of why fantasy like this endures, check out https://www.bbc.com/culture/article/20191120-why-fantasy-is-so-appealing, which explores the timeless appeal of such tales.
A Legacy That Lingers
Published by Ace, Brimstone is available in multiple formats: Kindle, audiobook, paperback, and MP3 CD, ensuring readers can choose their preferred way to experience it. Critics have praised it widely—NPR called it “equal parts affectionate romp and affecting story,” highlighting its heart amidst the horror. Cherie Priest, a master of steampunk and gothic fiction, brings her signature blend of vivid settings and compelling characters to this fantasy, making it a standout in her oeuvre.
As of March 25, 2025, Brimstone remains a gem in the fantasy world, proving that mythology isn’t just a relic of the past—it’s alive in every spark, every flame, every story. Its themes of love, loss, and redemption ensure it resonates long after the last page is turned.
Beyond the Pages: Why Brimstone Matters
Brimstone doesn’t just entertain; it lingers in the mind. It’s a story about love that defies death, about power reclaimed from destruction, and about the human spirit’s ability to endure. These themes are the backbone of great fantasy, from ancient epics to modern novels. If you’re craving more tales of fire and magic, our related article “Realms of Fantasy: Worlds Beyond Our Own” is a great next step, offering a guide to other worlds that captivate and inspire.
This isn’t a sprawling epic with thousands of pages, but its emotional depth and mythic resonance make it feel monumental. Brimstone shows that small stories can cast long shadows, leaving readers with a sense of wonder and a desire to return to its world.
Alt Text Example for Image: “A shadowy 1920s figure surrounded by swirling flames, capturing the dark fantasy essence of Brimstone by Cherie Priest.”
Conclusion: Ignite Your Imagination with Brimstone
Brimstone by Cherie Priest is a dark fantasy odyssey that lights up the Mythology and Fantasy genre with its blend of history, heart, and haunting flames. From Tomás’s tortured fires to Alice’s courageous quest, it’s a journey that feels both timeless and urgent as of March 25, 2025. Available in Kindle, audiobook, paperback, and MP3 CD, it invites you to step into its embers and feel the heat of a myth reborn. Whether you’re a longtime fantasy fan or a newcomer, Brimstone is a story worth discovering. Light the match—adventure awaits.
