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A review by elenisbookshelf
The Alchemy of Flowers: A Novel by Laura Resau
3.0
Thank you Netgalley and the publisher for a copy of this audiobook in exchange for an honest review.
The Alchemy of Flowers wasn’t quite what I expected as I went into it pretty blind; it leaned more into magical realism than fantasy, but it had plenty of emotional depth. It felt simultaneously witchy and therapeutic/reflective. It is set in the beautiful and mysterious Jardins du Paradis in the South of France, which is what initially pulled me into the title. The story is rooted in grief, healing, and found family. The themes of motherhood, nature, and rediscovery are present throughout.
While the poetic writing was beautiful and immersive, it slowed the pacing and was distracting at times; the French phrases were very charming for a while, but then started to feel a bit overused.
It won’t be for everyone, and while I didn’t fully connect, I can see how this could resonate with readers who share the main character’s grief and experiences.
TW: fertility struggles, grief
The Alchemy of Flowers wasn’t quite what I expected as I went into it pretty blind; it leaned more into magical realism than fantasy, but it had plenty of emotional depth. It felt simultaneously witchy and therapeutic/reflective. It is set in the beautiful and mysterious Jardins du Paradis in the South of France, which is what initially pulled me into the title. The story is rooted in grief, healing, and found family. The themes of motherhood, nature, and rediscovery are present throughout.
While the poetic writing was beautiful and immersive, it slowed the pacing and was distracting at times; the French phrases were very charming for a while, but then started to feel a bit overused.
It won’t be for everyone, and while I didn’t fully connect, I can see how this could resonate with readers who share the main character’s grief and experiences.
TW: fertility struggles, grief