63 pages 2 hours read

Quicksilver

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2024

A modern alternative to SparkNotes and CliffsNotes, SuperSummary offers high-quality Study Guides with detailed chapter summaries and analysis of major themes, characters, and more.

Book Brief

Callie Hart

Quicksilver

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2024
Book Details
Pages

622

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Europe • 17th century

Publication Year

2024

Publisher

Brilliance Audio

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

Roundup icon

Super Short Summary

Quicksilver by Neal Stephenson is a historical novel set in the late 17th and early 18th centuries. It follows individuals involved in scientific, political, and economic changes. The story integrates real historical figures and fictional characters, exploring the development of ideas and technologies that shape the future. It is the first book in the Baroque Cycle series.

Dark

Mysterious

Gritty

Suspenseful

Emotional

Reviews & Readership

Roundup icon

Review Roundup

Neal Stephenson's Quicksilver impresses with its rich historical detail and complex narrative, blending science, politics, and intrigue. Reviewers praise its intellectual depth and vivid characters but acknowledge its dense prose can be challenging. The book's intricate plot rewards patient readers, though some may find its pacing uneven. Overall, a rewarding but demanding read.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Quicksilver?

Fans of Quicksilver by Neal Stephenson are usually history buffs with a penchant for intricate storytelling and complex characters. They often enjoy other multifaceted books like Umberto Eco’s The Name of the Rose and David Mitchell’s Cloud Atlas, where rich historical context intertwines with elaborate narrative structures.

Character List

Saeris Fane

The narrator and protagonist who lives in Zilvaren, where she engages in activities like stealing, motivated by a protective urge for her brother Hayden. Her journey involves moral dilemmas, an evolving relationship with Fisher, and uncovering her unique abilities.

Saeris's love interest and ally, initially meeting as an antagonist but eventually forming a deep romantic bond. He struggles with his quicksilver poisoning and plays a key role in the narrative's political and emotional arcs.

A close friend and ally to Fisher, acting as a voice of reason and a supportive figure within the story. He aids in the plot development through his interactions with key characters.

A smuggler and ally to Saeris, known for his flirtatious and comic nature. Despite his relaxed demeanor, he is capable and assists significantly in both plot and conflict resolution.

An elite soldier and close ally of Kingfisher, restored from near-death through soul magic. He plays a supporting role, contributing to pivotal moments with his unique actions and abilities.

A group of antagonists—Malcolm, a powerful vampire ruler; Belikon, the manipulative king of Yvelia; and Madra, the despotic queen of Zilvaren. They are siblings whose tactics and ambitions drive much of the story's conflict.

Book Details
Pages

622

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Europe • 17th century

Publication Year

2024

Publisher

Brilliance Audio

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

Buy This Book

Continue your reading experience

Subscribe now to unlock the rest of this Study Guide plus our full library, which features expert-written summaries and analyses of 8,000+ additional titles.