Middlegame.
Tor. 2019
The alchemist Reed has had twins Roger and Dodger constructed, so that they can manifest The Doctrine and make him all powerful. They need to be raised apart, one with Maths, one with Words, so they do not manifest too early. But they are stronger than he realises, and connect with each other before he is ready. Reed believes he can control them, but if not, he can always destroy them and start again. But he has forgotten the most important rule of Alchemy. Never create a being more powerful than yourself.
This is a marvellous book. In the acknowledgements, McGuire says that she has had the book in mind for a long time, but waited until now because she didn't have the skill to write it earlier. She certainly has the skill to write it now.
Set in modern day America, yet with a lyrical, fantastical feel, constructed children who are nevertheless very real, weird happenings that slowly begin to make sense, contradictory foreshadowings that heighten the tension, real tragedy and heartbreak, and a stunning finale that is a perfect resolution, yet leaves you wanting more: this is a masterpiece.
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