A review by theetherealelf
The Accidental Alchemist by Gigi Pandian

adventurous funny lighthearted mysterious medium-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? A mix
• Strong character development? Yes
• Loveable characters? Yes
• Diverse cast of characters? It's complicated
• Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated

5.0

 

The ending which revealed Sam as the killer felt a little rushed, but was otherwise good. He was on my suspicious list. It felt like some details wrapping up Max's story and what is happening to Dorian were left out at the end of the book, but I can forgive that since it's a series.

I can't wait to read the next books, this type of mysterious that is combined with fantasy is my favorite. Reminds me of another mystery book I read recently with botany and historical elements, "A Botanist's Guide to Parties and Poisons" by Kate Khavari. The vegan stuff didn't bother me, and I thought it was funny that Dorian is so good at cooking. It was funny yet mysterious and kept me reading. I stayed up late because I just couldn't put it down.

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Content Warnings

Graphic: Suicide and Murder

Moderate: Drug use

Minor: Ableism, Cancer, Vomit, and Alcohol

the characters are somewhat diverse, like Max, who is Chinese or Dorian who is a gargoyle (which fits under the "it's complicated" category for me. Could be much more diverse, though.