I was really excited for this book, folklore and myth are my thing and the opening chapter had me intrigued.

I enjoyed the mystery and intrigue of the story and I like that there were little clues dotted throughout. However, I felt like there were big gaps and things missing. Maybe this is going to be part of a series and not a standalone story which might help clear things up but if it is a standalone, it was a bit lacking for me.

I thought Holland was too trusting and a bit naive. The yo-yoing between Gabe and Adam gave me whiplash (even though this is explained, it’s also just kind of glossed over) and where the hell was January?!

I did devour this in an afternoon and it was a pleasant, easy read.

Thank you to NetGalley, Orion Publishing Group and Stephanie Garber for the eARC.

Where do I start? I would give this book 6 stars if I could!
This book has it all! Magic, mystery, glamour, betrayal, love! Oh my gosh!!

Thank you to Orion Publishing Group and Stephanie Garber for trusting me with this eARC, it did not affect my review 🫶

Stephanie Garber creates such a wonderful, magical world you can immerse yourself in, we learn everything through the eyes of Holland, our main character, as she also navigates her way through this mysterious world she always knew existed, but who can she trust? It keeps you falling for hot mysterious men and guessing all the way through!

I loved the enchanting old Hollywood vibe, the mystical atmosphere, the adventure Holland finds herself pulled into and it all starts with a class in an old movie theatre.

I highly recommend this book! I couldn’t put it down and didn’t want it to end!!

This is my first Stephanie Garber book, but after reading this, I definitely want to pick up her other titles, and although everything about this story is wrapped up at the end, I really hope she turns this into a series like her others.

I have also pre-ordered my copy from Waterstones because it was so good I want to read it again, AND the book itself looks gorgeous!!

(If anyone is selling their ticket to her sold out Liverpool event, I would love to go!! I missed out 😭)

I devoured Stephanie Garber’s previous series, so I was very excited to get to read this one early. This book hooked me very early on and I couldn’t put it down! .

I loved the Hollywood setting with magical elements and found that I was really sucked into it. The mystery reminded me of what I loved about the Caraval series. Plus, I enjoyed trying to figure out who you could trust!

My only downsides are that the writing felt more YA than an adult novel at times. I also would have liked to have seen more of the male characters’ personalities and gotten to know them better; instead, I felt like there was more focus on their looks. Hopefully, this will show more in the next book, though.

Despite this, I am very excited to see where the story goes next, and to hopefully get more answers about all of the characters!

4.5 stars.

Oh how I’ve missed being in the Magical worlds written by Stephanie Garber!

The modern setting was refreshing, but it still had all of the historical, mysterious, intriguing magic that I adore from her books!

Highly recommend this book

Thanks Orian, Gollancz and the author for this ARC copy

Folklore 517, local legends and urban myths. It starts with a class taught by the Professor. The stories are just stories, there’s no such thing as a man who can tell you the time you die. And the Devil doesn’t frequent a hotel waiting for someone to buy him a sidecar.

But Holland believes in the stories, as a student of the class she wants to find all the legends, but she has a reason for wanting to find the Devil.

I’m a huge fan of Stephanie’s books and this was just amazing, easily her best book yet. Full of magic intrigue and a hint of romance you will not want to miss this.

This book failed to captivate me from beginning to end. I found myself simply waiting for it to conclude rather than being genuinely invested in where the story would lead. It pains me to say this, but while the premise held promise, the plot execution felt disjointed and scattered. Information was revealed without any real sense of surprise or revelation. The mystery and thriller elements felt forced, lacking the tension that makes readers turn pages breathlessly. I felt no burning curiosity or anticipation about what might unfold next.

As for the romance? I'm afraid even that felt hollow. The characters exhibited no genuine chemistry, no spark of connection that would draw readers into their relationship. If there was meant to be a slow-burn romance developing, I couldn't discern when it actually began. The entire narrative seemed trapped in an endless cycle of "to trust or not to trust", a question that became tedious rather than compelling. The female protagonist was so caught up in this circular doubt that she appeared to lose any agency in her own story, unable even to form her own judgments.

The characterization throughout felt disappointingly flat and unmemorable. Even the protagonist failed to leave any lasting impression. Despite being marketed as adult fiction, the book read more like young adult fiction attempting to masquerade in adult clothing.

This was such a thrilling story to read, I could not stop reading. I love how this book is very clearly by Stephanie Garber in terms of the writing but it still feels so different to her other work. I loved all the myths and legends, I loved how movies and Hollywood played a big part in this book and I also loved, how the fmc as well as you as the reader never know who to trust. I'm so curious where this story is going to go next and if we'll finally meet the twin sister and if we'll get answers where the two main male characters come from and what their goals are. I just wish that there would be a bit less talk about the looks, the handsomeness and hotness of men. Not only in this book but almost in every other book as well. I think the character of a person can be so much hotter than just their looks. I missed that here.

I was so happy to be given the chance to read this one early! I absolutely loved it, it started a tiny bit slow (as expected from this genre for me) but after around 20% I could not put it down! I NEEDED to know what was going to happen. I had so many questions along the way that I couldnt get answered quick enough. I was invested in all the characters, I'm already more than ready for another book (hopefully a few) in this universe.

"He had a heart, and he was one of those rare people who only became better at using it throughout his life."

Thank you NetGalley and Orion Publishing Group/Gollancz for the opportunity to read the ARC of “Alchemy of Secrets”.

This was a wild ride. I have enjoyed every single moment of this book, however, I will start my review with the evolution of Stephanie Garber’s prose, storytelling and world-building. I have always enjoyed the way her mind works in the world-building and lore way, and this book does not fail, it has that Garber-esque atmosphere which is stuck between gothic and baroque/rococo with a generous touch of lavish and mystical. If you know, you know. This book could pass as dark academia, but I think I would taint it if I were to describe it that way. It’s a murder mystery thriller with a touch of magic; the magic encompasses both magical realism and more of the high-end concept. Moving forward, the first element I noticed and enjoyed in this book has been the prose… the prose! Garber’s evolution is little said visible, and as an enjoyer of her work, I have absolutely loved the manner in which her writing turned more mature, sensual, and mysterious. With a very keen but definitely not overwhelming attention to detail. Experiencing this evolution of hers has made the novel even more thrilling.

To add to the mention of world-building, as previously stated this edges on magical realism with touches of epic magic elements. I have enjoyed how the entrance of magic in the world is introduced, and how that affected individuals in different ways, to the point that they have cults and societies which reflect that. The lore, combined with (Old) Hollywood elements, has been quite unique, and I enjoyed the overall atmosphere very much. The fact that the action all happens on Halloween is even more so entrancing, as it adds more to the mystery and overall paranoia of the main character.

Mentioning the paranoia, I think this is a solid thriller novel; I won’t go into details because I don’t want to spoil, however, the fact that I myself as a reader found it at times impossible to trust any character (including Holland) has been a very fun experience. Again, this goes hand-in-hand with Garber’s more mature prose. Very well executed.

Regarding the main character, Holland — I must say that, despite being a fan, I’ve had issues with Garber’s female characters in the past, and have only liked Scarlett, and have considered her Garber’s best-written heroine. She is now dethroned by Holland. Her character and her situation is thrilling and tense, yet Holland manages to make the best decisions for herself at the time. She is both an artist and an intellectual, and as a reader you can visibly see that through her thoughts, actions and mannerisms. She is particularly well-constructed and I have enjoyed her from start to finish; it’s seen, not merely told, and that makes all the difference.

As far as the male characters go, I fear anything I would say more subjectively would be a spoiler. However, they are all well-rounded and written, and I have genuinely liked them all. All the male characters are so quintessentially Garber, and they’re all exquisite. I obviously have a favourite (who doesn’t) but he is left enshrined by mystery so perhaps I have fallen into the trap of that appeal, however, if anyone writes mysterious figures well, that’s Garber, so who can even blame me.

Long term, I would definitely love to see:
1) A sequel (or more) about Holland and what adventures are next in line for her;
2) A separate parallel series about her sister January. I strongly believe the two sisters should not be mixed, and that January should come as a main character of the next book (if there is any). Holland was too strong as a main character to be robbed of her own series.

I would recommend this book to anyone who has enjoyed The Raven/Dreamer Cycle, Alex Stern/Ninth House, and The Secret History.

I went into this pretty much blind and I was very pleasantly surprised. The premise was so interesting and the story really hooked me from the beginning. I could not put it down and I’m very excited for the rest of the series which I hope will happen

This book completely pulled me in. I devoured it in one sitting and I’m not ashamed to admit that 🤭 It’s one of those stories you want to savour slowly, but also can’t stop reading because you have to know what happens next 🙌🏼

The characters were layered, and all their hidden secrets made the mystery even more addictive. I was constantly second-guessing who I could trust, and just when I thought I had it figured out… boom, another twist caught me completely off guard 🫣 and when I tell you you will not be able to put this down until you figure out the mystery I reallyyyy mean it 🙌🏼🧐

The story had a much more mature feel to it compared to her earlier work which I really enjoyed 💖👏🏼 She just has this incredible way of blending magic, and mystery that keeps you hooked from start to finish 🙌🏼

If you’re looking for your next mystery filled magical read, this one is a must 💜

I swear every one of Stephanie Garber’s books are laced with actual magic because only a few pages in I was completely mesmerised and powerless to tear myself away.

I feel like I say this a lot but this book was SO GOOD. Like can’t stop thinking about it, replaying different plot points and it might become my whole personality good.

It’s twisty, kind of eerie, fast paced, with Easter eggs inside Easter eggs.

You’ll get suspense, thrills, mystery, and by the end be questioning everything you thought you knew.

Utterly compelling and original, I already can’t wait to reread this as soon as it’s published and my shiny special edition arrives.

Just want to say a huge thank you to @netgallery and @stephanie_garber for allowing me access to this ARC 🤩🤩

Alchemy of Secrets is Stephanie Garber’s adult debut, blending dark academia, hidden magic, and dangerous secrets in a high-stakes adventure set in Los Angeles.

I preordered this from Waterstones ages ago and was absolutely gassed to be granted the ARC—and it absolutely delivered 💜

It’s fast-paced and had me hooked from the very first chapters. The suspense, mystery, and magic were written perfectly. At times I felt like a yo-yo, constantly questioning who could be trusted—even after finishing—and that’s exactly what made it so addictive.

And the ending???? I need book two immediately 😭

Now I’ve finished this book all I want to do is start all over again.
Without a doubt I can say this is the best Stephanie Garber book. The plot twists kept me reading and honestly I felt so confused with who to trust every moment of the book.
The writing is beautiful, brimming with magic and just clicked with me straight away.
I must say the first half was more engaging for me personally, although it may be because I did end up preferring a certain love interest.
You can clearly tell this is a Stephanie Garber book- something about the way she writes and gently weaves in magic and secrets is so, so alluring.
It’s hard to give details without spoiling, but this is certainly such a magical book and I can’t wait for the next one

This book was so confusing, and unfortunately not in a good way….
The pacing was so weird, there are some parts that are very rushed, there is no character development whatsoever but at the same time we have these urban myths classes mixed in the middle which are not very useful and don’t always add things into the story/plot. The romance is lacking and the main characters decisions are truly unrealistic and do not make sense (like putting on heels while being in danger… or like the whole trusting decision-making).
The whole idea of not knowing who to trust and having all these secrets keeps the reader turning those pages. But then the end barely provides any answers and it is very frustrating.
The ending itself (the epilogue) is one of the most underwhelming I have read so far (we can’t even call that a cliffhanger tbh because we simply don’t know what we have to hang onto).
Overall, the plot idea is awesome and this story had so much potential, but I feel like this book has been overthought.

I am grateful for any ARC I receive and I’m sad this one didn’t work out for me but I guess it must happen once a while.
My review will not be posted on social media. I know a lot of people enjoyed this book and I wish the author all the best.

Wow, that was darker than I expected from Stephanie Garber! Quite different from her previous books set in the Caraval universe, yet this book is still very much Stephanie Garber.

This one is set in modern-day LA, but it’s just as whimsical, magical and mysterious as Caraval. With her distinctive tone and writing style, Garber kept my mind busy. It’s fast-paced and highly entertaining, full of twists and turns that leave you questioning what’s true and who to trust until the very end.

The story unfolds around an urban myth: if you buy a Sidecar (cocktail), you make a deal with the devil. Holland has to solve the mystery by following clues left behind by her late dad and uncover the truth behind the myth. It was a wild ride!

Think Dark Academia × Treasure Hunt × Mystery Solving × an ode to LA and classic films. If you love black-and-white cinema, you’ll enjoy this. Garber weaves in references to old Hollywood actors and iconic movie sets, which gives the book a retro nostalgic vibe.

After finishing, I still feel like I’m wandering through a maze. So many questions left unanswered. I really hope this turns into a series 🤞

5 🌟

I absolutely devoured this book! It was very twisty and the reader never knew who to trust. I adored the old Hollywood glamour and the references to LA and how the story took place in this setting. It was an unnerving treasure hunt with Garber’s signature whimsical writing and atmosphere. That being said I did feel the story felt muddled at times and it was difficult to keep track of the plot about mid way. Considering this was a standalone I was hoping to have more answers by the end. There were a few things I still didn’t quite understand and wonder if this will be explored a little further in a second book.

I really enjoyed the folklore classes peppered between chapters and the feeling that the reader was apart of the story. I didn’t really connect to the characters as much as I’d like, many were one note and only popped up to move the story forward but didn’t really have any value or personality. I did enjoy the twists and the unnerving atmosphere of time running out and who to trust. Adam and Holland had an interesting dynamic and I liked that the reader couldn’t quite trust him but also very much captivated by his character. Holland’s dark backstory really helped with the vibe of the book.

Overall, a twisty read with Stephanie Garber’s signature writing that kept me on my toes.

I didn't like this a lot, unfortunately. It felt very similar to Caraval in terms of vibes, but then also this was supposed to be an adult novel and everyone acted so childish and immature. The main character was just kind of annoying and the romance didn't do anything for me either. It was also hard to keep track of the characters, they just all kinda blended into one.

I also found everything really confusing, it took me a while to understand where the story was going and then the second half was just weird. The plot just felt sort of chaotic and all over the place. The ending was really rushed and it left so many questions unanswered.

Remarkable writing that encapsulates you in this world completely. Holland is a graduate student, and her research is seeking to demonstrate that several of Hollywood's most notorious deaths may have been influenced by supernatural forces- but mostly just the devil! This hypothesis forms the core of her thesis and is also a deeply personal pursuit. There are so many layers to this mystery, it is brilliantly crazy and unexpected; each page is more gripping than the last. She explores legends, myths, and folktales in her desperate need to prove the existence of magic, with each discovery leading to further questions and uncertainty regarding whom she can trust. Everything is mysterious and just sumptuously delicious.

Garber’s writing is always gorgeous, I adore her rich and vibrant storytelling and Alchemy was no different!

Thank you to the author and publisher for my advanced copy 🩵

Full RTC.