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3.97 AVERAGE
3.97 AVERAGE
Loved this story and the main character, Christopher Rowe, is an absolute hero! Kids will love this mystery because there is so much action and suspense and despite being an historical fiction (which typically do not draw middle schoolers in), this time period will be completely appealing to kids because the concept of alchemy is so interesting.
Love all the twists and turns of this one and especially the great ending, tying up all loose ends and leaving the reader feeling very happy for Christopher (and hopeful there might be a book 2??)
Love all the twists and turns of this one and especially the great ending, tying up all loose ends and leaving the reader feeling very happy for Christopher (and hopeful there might be a book 2??)
It seems middle-grade writers tend to be stronger than YA writers at the technical level. Kevin Sands work was smooth and seamless in terms of narration and structure. It had me captivated throughout. It wasn't mindblowing at the level of the story, but it was enviable (from a writer's perspective) in just how clear and focused his writing is.
Actual Rating: 3.5/5
The story was pretty interesting and I cared about the characters enough that I teared up twice. But I wasnt super into it. I have the first 2 books so I think I’ll read the next one and give it another chance. Also just FYI this isn’t fantasy. It’s a historical mystery about apothecaries and secret puzzles.
The story was pretty interesting and I cared about the characters enough that I teared up twice. But I wasnt super into it. I have the first 2 books so I think I’ll read the next one and give it another chance. Also just FYI this isn’t fantasy. It’s a historical mystery about apothecaries and secret puzzles.
compelling plot twists, emphasis on lucky escapes vs "mc can do anything"
2.5 This was a perfectly fine middle grade. It just wasn’t for me, thre was no magic and I don’t like stories set in that time period.
A fast-paced mystery filled with codes and clues so the audience can try to solve alongside the characters. Set in England in the 1600s, the apprentice to an alchemist faces grave danger when a mysterious cult commits a series of murders. Couldn’t put it down! Ages 10 and up.
Terrific adventure! Total page-turner. Mr. Sands gradually wove in the backstory as the plot unfolded, adding depth to the characters. Great heroes. Exciting mystery!
I liked how the author made the entire book around one ingredient that one group of people tried to find and how many different puzzles there were. Also, I liked how the book ended. BOOM!