Alchemy of Secrets

A Novel

De: Stephanie Garber

Narrado por: Sutton Foster

The HOTLY ANTICIPATED adult debut novel by the beloved, #1 NEW YORK TIMES BESTSELLING author of the Caraval and Once Upon a Broken Heart series. This audiobook is read by Tony Award–winning actress Sutton Foster

“Foster’s evocative and consistent tone throws the reader a lifeline amid a multitude of uncanny characters and mindbending plots as Garber twists and turns the narrative at every corner.” — Booklist

It starts with a class in an old movie theater.

Folklore 517: Local Legends and Urban Myths, taught by a woman called the Professor. Most students believe the Professor’s stories are just fiction, but Holland St. James has always been convinced that magic is real. When she tracks down a local legend named the Watch Man, who can supposedly tell you when you’ll die, the world finally makes sense. Except that the Watch Man tells her she will die at midnight tomorrow unless she finds an ancient object called the Alchemical Heart.

With the clock ticking, Holland is pulled deeper into this magical world in the heart of Los Angeles—and into the path of a magnetic stranger. Everything about him feels like a bad idea, but he promises Holland that her sister sent him to protect her. As they chase clues and stories that take them closer to the Alchemical Heart, Holland realizes everyone in this intoxicating new world is lying to her, even this stranger. And if she can’t figure out whom to trust, not even the Alchemical Heart will save her.

A Macmillan Audio production from Flatiron Books

So fun!

I love Stephanie Garber’s writing! The worlds she is able to craft feel so magical and whimsical. Her books, including this one, have the ability to transport you into them. The twists in this book were so good and unexpected, you knew there would be twists but then they would play out in a totally unexpected way. I feel like we are set up for another one and I will be anxiously waiting!

Listen to this book!!

This was such an amazing book! I didn’t want it to end. A must listen for sure!

Excellent story, surprisingly subpar narration

First of all, the positives:

This story is incredible. Stephanie Garber weaves a beautifully detailed world full of magic and Old-Hollywood whimsy. The characters are wonderful and the story keeps you going because you have to know what happens next. Absolutely 1000% recommend Alchemy’s of Magic.

However, while I was so excited to hear the incredibly talented Sutton Foster narrate this story, as her voice truly is perfect for the FMC, I was surprisingly disappointed in her reading. The story started strong, with my only complaint really being that her MC voices sounded kind of feminine. However, as the story got deeper, all character voices seemed to blend and the narration itself fell flat. Scenes that could have truly benefited from some emoting were left feeling bland and dry. I love Sutton as an actress and had such high hopes for her, but either she gave up and was rushing to fill the deadline, or she just got so into the story that she forgot she was narrating it for the rest of us.

Enchanting and mysterious

Alchemy of Secrets is a spellbinding read that captures the magic and mystery Garber is known for. The worldbuilding is lush and immersive, and I loved how the characters’ secrets and complex relationships unfolded throughout the story. The emotional stakes were high, and the atmosphere kept me hooked from start to finish.

While I enjoyed the twists and turns, there were a few moments towards the end where the plot felt a bit rushed, and I would’ve liked a bit more depth in some of the revelations. That said, it was still a fantastic read that was magical, romantic, and full of intrigue. Definitely recommended for anyone who loves a fairy-tale vibe with a touch of mystery!

another immersive universe from the lovely stephanie garber!!!

Stephanie Garber never fails to impress and entertain me! So glad I read this! I enjoyed the characters and plot, and as usual I loved the writing style too! The pacing was great, and the plot twists had me jumping out of my seat!!!