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Alchemy of Glass (The Apothecary Series) by Barbara Barnett – Review by Ayla Phipps

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Alchemy of GlassAlchemy of Glass by Barbara Barnett
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Mystery, history, and more. Once again, the world Barbara Barnett weaves in the pages of this series pulls you in and fully emerges you. Apothecary’s Curse introduces you to the world and the characters, but Alchemy of Glass takes you deeper into the catacombs of who they are and what they must overcome.
It all starts with a journal and a piece of glass. Gaelen was surprised to see a long thought missing piece from one of his own stain glass windows changes everything. Now he must face the consequences of his actions towards Dr. Anne Shaw. Without her help and understanding the world could be doomed for the catastrophic future he’s seen ahead.
Can Gaelen and Anne trust each other? Is the past too much to overcome? What does the future show? This world is just *chefs kiss* everything is so perfectly weaved together and has a purpose even the simplest of details make a difference. Immortality has become too much for Gaelen and finding a cure is truly his biggest desire.

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Alchemy of Glass (The Apothecary Series) by Barbara Barnett – Review by Shannen Kern

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Alchemy of GlassAlchemy of Glass by Barbara Barnett
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I had only read one book by this author before picking this one up, but the cover was ridiculously beautiful so I grabbed it immediately! This is the second book in The Apothecary’s Curse series, and I found it even more enjoyable than the first. There is a possibility that you could read this book as a standalone but reading the previous book first would result in the best experience by far. I always love when stories are told from dual points of view as it helps me get in the character’s heads a little more, so this won brownie points for performing that flawlessly! This author has an absolutely astounding way of expertly crafting a dark fantasy that demands your undivided attention from the very beginning. I never wanted to put this book down but did so only for the basic necessities during the day and then ran right back to it. Gaelan is a perfect and unforgettable character for this magnificent book! If you enjoy dark fantasy with some historical fiction blended in, please don’t pass this book (or this series) up. I cannot wait to see what else this author has planned for us!

Reviewed by @shannlynn

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Alchemy of Glass (The Apothecary Series) by Barbara Barnett – Review by Kerry Carr

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Alchemy of GlassAlchemy of Glass by Barbara Barnett
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This is the second book in The Apothecary Series . Even though these books could be read as standalone reads I personally would recommend reading them in order so that you get a complete picture of the characters. Plus I feel that you will be completely captivated that you want to read them all anyway.
This story follows on from the first one. It is a historical fiction mixed with sci fi, mythology, fairies, magical spells and so much more. The combination of genres is really unique and for me it’s what makes these books so memorable and such a good read.
This a journey that will take our character Gaelan on an adventure through the past, into the present and future.
It is a story about choice and the consequences of the choice and decisions we make. Can Gaelan and Anne work together to save the world from a bleak future or will decision and choice that Gaelan make in the past have a disastrous effect on the present and future of the world and everyone in it.
These books are captivating and very thought provoking. I get lost in the story and feel like I am there witnessing everything first hand. The authors writing is amazing that as a reader you get to feel everything from their happiness and sadness to their greatest sense of confusion and grief.

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Notebook Mysteries ~ Art of Deception (Notebook Mysteries Series) by Kimberly Mullins – Review by Terri Jo McAllister

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Notebook Mysteries ~ Art of DeceptionNotebook Mysteries ~ Art of Deception by Kimberly Mullins
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Emma and Jeremy have settled into a familiar routine with their charge, Henrietta. Things are going smoothly until a body thrown from a train turns out to be a close friend’s brother. When evidence doesn’t add up, Emma and Jeremy go undercover to solve the mystery. I have loved all of these books and hope the series continues.

Reviewed by Terri Jo McAllister

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Alchemy of Glass (The Apothecary Series) by Barbara Barnett – Review by Terri Jo McAllister

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Alchemy of GlassAlchemy of Glass by Barbara Barnett
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Immortal alchemist Gaelan Ercledoune’s story continues. Gaelan discovers a piece of magical glass in his old friend, Aurthur Conan Doyle’s journal. With the help of Dr. Anne Shaw, the apothecary sets out to try to change the course of mankind’s disastrous future.

Review by Terri Jo McAllister
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Notebook Mysteries ~ Art of Deception (Notebook Mysteries Series) by Kimberly Mullins – Review by Debora Morales

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Notebook Mysteries ~ Art of DeceptionNotebook Mysteries ~ Art of Deception by Kimberly Mullins
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Loved this book! A great read. Kimberly Mullins has created another story filled with adventure, action, murder & of course mystery. I loved the family feel this community of mystery solvers. They go all out helping a friend. Included in the story in their new responsibility, which added another sweet expression of family. Great plot with a great group of created characters and a detailed story to keep you hooked. I highly encourage you to go back and read all books in the series if you have not.

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Alchemy of Glass (The Apothecary Series) by Barbara Barnett – Review by Hannah Porter

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Alchemy of GlassAlchemy of Glass by Barbara Barnett
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Alchemy of Glass is a slow burn continuation of The Apothecary’s Curse( the first book) just like the first. This book is a compelling blend of historical fiction and fantasy. It also excels in creating an immersive setting, filled with rich details and a perfectly woven journey over different time periods. Barnett’s writing is engaging, and her characters are well-developed. It offers a unique and atmospheric read with its detailed historical backdrop and intriguing plot twists, though it may appeal more to fans of historical fiction with a touch of fantasy rather than pure fantasy enthusiasts. Either way I still suggest you read it. It will not disappoint with its unique storyline. I look forward to more from this author.

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Alchemy of Glass (The Apothecary Series) by Barbara Barnett – Review by Mandy Ott

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Alchemy of GlassAlchemy of Glass by Barbara Barnett
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Barbara Barnett continues the story of immortal apothecary, Gaelan Erceldoune, first introduced in The Apothecary’s Curse. I felt like this could be read as a standalone, but reading the first book was beneficial in understanding the characters. Alchemy of Glass explores the connections between magic and science, myths and reality, past and present. Written in the same dual time period style as before, Barnett’s writing draws you in and doesn’t let go! Alchemy of Glass has just as much world-building detail as The Apothecary’s Curse and the same oddly lovable, realistic characters. There were so many things happening in this book, from the apparent delirium of Gaelan following his attempt at ending his immortality to the time travel to the medical interventions requested of Anne, but all were somehow connected and none overpowered another. Overall, another great historical fantasy by Barbara Barnett.

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Alchemy of Glass (The Apothecary Series) by Barbara Barnett – Review by Naomi McDonald

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Alchemy of GlassAlchemy of Glass by Barbara Barnett
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This is the second book in the series. It can be read as a standalone, but I feel the story is enriched if you read the first book.
As with the previous book, I was drawn in immediately. The story is engaging and keeps you turning the pages. Superb world-building without getting bogged down by extraneous details. Complex characters. Intricate story line, expertly woven.
A compelling read – definitely on my list of top favorites this year.

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Notebook Mysteries ~ Art of Deception (Notebook Mysteries Series) by Kimberly Mullins – Review by Brandy Rymer

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Notebook Mysteries ~ Art of DeceptionNotebook Mysteries ~ Art of Deception by Kimberly Mullins
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I have really enjoyed reading the Notebook Mysteries series. Kimberly Mullins is an amazing author who pays special attention to details while writing her mystery books. This allows the reader to delve into the process of trying to solve the mystery right along with our main characters. I love that each story in this series continues to build upon the characters’ backstories, making them more and more dynamic as we delve deeper into their pasts and examine their current relationships with one another. It is also amazing that any one of the books in this series can be read as a stand-alone, although I recommend you read all of the series from the beginning, which is something I am going to go back and do since I jumped into reading the middle of this series. The characters are so relatable, the settings are realistic, and the events that happen are believable, which is so important to a good mystery book. Some parts progressed a little slower at times, but it makes it worth the reader’s time to stick with it because details in a mystery read are so imperative to not miss. This is a great series to read if you love a good mystery that has you guessing throughout the book and then continues to be filled with unexpected twists and turns right to the very end. Happy reading, until next time!
@Brandy Rymer
08/2024

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Alchemy of Glass (The Apothecary Series) by Barbara Barnett – Review by Felicia Belcher

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Alchemy of GlassAlchemy of Glass by Barbara Barnett
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Alchemy of Glass is a slow burn into the depths of Gaelan’s immortality and his urge to end the “curse” after over half a millennium of life. Dual timelines of his past that changed his chromosomes, unbeknownst to him, until he meets Anne-in present time, a Genealogist. Conan Doyle, Nicola Tesla and Edison also make appearances, which comes together throughout the book of their importance to Gaelan.

Gaelan creates a “bauble” aka Ruperts Drop that is imbued with magic to transport the holder into the future. The bauble is best used within the caves the monks created centuries ago, a room of mirrors set to the Fibonacci sequence.

The future is bleak, it is up to Anne to make the correct decision to save the fate of humanity after a multibillionaire seeks her help to heal his ailing child with stolen tissue from the ” Miracle Man”- Gaelan!

reviewed by @fbelcher93

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Notebook Mysteries – Art of Deception (Notebook Mysteries Series) by Kimberly Mullins – Review by Jules Herbert

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Notebook Mysteries ~ Art of DeceptionNotebook Mysteries ~ Art of Deception by Kimberly Mullins
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I truly love this series and this latest addition to the series did not disappoint in any way at all! This super talented author always writes so vividly that you can truly see all the characters and events that are happening as if you were really there! The way she weaves her storylines and historical aspects is incredible. This can be read as a stand alone, as all the books in the series can be BUT I say go read them all! You will love them and want to know everything I promise you!

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Alchemy of Glass (The Apothecary Series) by Barbara Barnett – Review by Jennifer Gordon

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Alchemy of GlassAlchemy of Glass by Barbara Barnett
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

The story of the immortal apothecary Gaelan continues in this historical fantasy sequel. Gaelan visits a mystical place from his childhood, an ancient ruined monastery in the Eildon Hills. Here he discovers a journal written by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle, describing his journey to a land of fairy castles, magical rivers and filigree trees, the Otherworld. He also finds a small piece of glass from a stained glass panel he made centuries ago, which comes to life in his hands. Gaelan finds himself transported but not to the dreamscape Conan Doyle described. Whilst doubting his sanity Gaelan believes he has traversed a portal into the future. As his past, present and future collide Gaelan must prevent a catastrophic future. I loved the mix of Celtic mythology, magic, fairy lore and science that this novel weaves together. I enjoyed being back with Gaelan and once again the descriptive narrative brought the settings vividly to life. I felt fully immersed in this enjoyable and engaging story. I would personally recommend reading book one first for a better understanding of the main characters backstory.

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Notebook Mysteries ~ Art of Deception (Notebook Mysteries Series) by Kimberly Mullins – Review by Paula R Sayers

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Notebook Mysteries Art of DeceptionNotebook Mysteries Art of Deception by Kimberly Mullins
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Loved the seventh book in the Notebook Mysteries series!! The book was fast paced and a page turner. Peggy’s brother is thrown from a train and dies. Emma and Jeremy are determined to find out who did it and to bring them to justice. This is a great historical fiction. Looking forward to more of this series.

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Alchemy of Glass (The Apothecary Series) by Barbara Barnett – Review by Jennifer Reimer

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Alchemy of GlassAlchemy of Glass by Barbara Barnett
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I really enjoyed this book, but this book 2 to the series and highly suggest reading the first boo first, to have a better understanding on what this story is all about. This is a book that continues on from the pervious book. This story is filled history, time travel, twists and turns, love, loss, mystery, supernatural, science and so much more. Each chapter is takes place in a new time period and follows the journey of Gaelen’s hope on being able to change the past to fix the future that it has turned into, or will it still end up the way it I no mater what happens? The characters in this book are so intriguing that it was easy to care for and very likable and relatable, that it makes you feel like you know them all on a deeper level. This story catches the reader, and it was very hard to put it down, I really enjoyed this read and cant wait to know if their will be more to this story.

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Alchemy of Glass (The Apothecary Series) by Barbara Barnett – Review by Amanda Gray

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Alchemy of GlassAlchemy of Glass by Barbara Barnett
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Alchemy of Glass (The Apothecary Series) by Barbara Barnett – Review by Amanda Gray

What I like about this book, is that even the it is the second it a series, it could also stand alone if you had not read the first book. When I choose this as my next read, I did not realize it was the next book in the series to the book I just read, I was pleasantly surprised. I was not ready to let go of the fascinating tale and characters just yet. Barnett does a superb job at building this tale and the multiple times within it. I have always been a fan of historical fiction, not so much of fantasy, in the fantasy world built here, I was sucked into the story, the characters, the history, that I did not give a second thought to fantasy novels not being my jam. It was a highly enjoyable read and I look forward to what is next from Barbara Burnett. Grab both books, you will not regret it!

Alchemy of Glass, The Apothecary Series, Barbara Barnett, Review, Itsy Bitsy Book Bits, Historical, Fantasy, Amanda Gray, August 2024

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Notebook Mysteries ~ Art of Deception (Notebook Mysteries Series) by Kimberly Mullins – Review by Angela Shirley

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Notebook Mysteries ~ Art of DeceptionNotebook Mysteries ~ Art of Deception by Kimberly Mullins
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

We are back in the world of Emma and Jeremy on another adventure and mystery. This time they are investigating the murder of a friends brother and have to go undercover to see what has happened and what lies in store. Recruiting his sister and her husband to help the merry band of four of them have to try uncover the secrets with lie ahead.

As always they are plunged into danger, action and thrilling adventures which adds to the twists and turns of the book, as you are taken along the journey you just want to dive straight in and become one with the characters.

I have read many of this authors books in this series and they are all unique and thrilling with the twists and turns and the way the story flows having you anticipating the next jump are clue to the mystery and this book does not disappoint. With all the same old characters which we all love mixed in with some fresh new ones you will be swept away with the whole story.

I can’t wait to read the next instalment in this wonderful series.

Alchemy of Glass (The Apothecary Series) by Barbara Barnett – Review by Amanda Swindle

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Alchemy of GlassAlchemy of Glass by Barbara Barnett
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Alchemy of Glass is the second book in the Apothecary Series, and continues on after book one. You can read this book as a standalone, but it would help to read the first book to help follow back story and details. This is a dual POV book so it does switch between characters to give you perspectives from different angles. Alchemy of glass seamlessly meshes dark fantasy, history and science to make a believable and unique world. Not only are you reading from different perspectives of characters, but also from different points in time as well. In Alchemy of Glass, we continue with Gaelen, the immortal apothecary. Gaelen finds a piece of glass in an old friend’s journal that leads him on an epic journey and the need to recruit the help of Anne, who he was not always kind to in the previous book. Hopefully, together, they can prevent a catastrophic future and fix things before it is too late for everyone. This story is nicely written and easy to follow, even with the switches in characters and times. The character development was steady and smooth, and I think I liked this more than the first one.
Reviewed by @zoltrixes

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Notebook Mysteries ~ Art of Deception (Notebook Mysteries Series) by Kimberly Mullins – Review by Desiree Ottinger

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Notebook Mysteries ~ Art of DeceptionNotebook Mysteries ~ Art of Deception by Kimberly Mullins
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Emma and Jeremy are in the thick of it with this mystery! When their friend’s brother ends up dead and no leads on who or why, they are thrown into the middle of a mystery! In order to flush out a past that is full of questions, they have to go undercover. As the investigation progresses, so do the stakes. With their family growing and responsibilities changing, can they balance it all to find out who the culprit is before it blows back on their family and friends? Or have they finally met their match?

I truly enjoy these stories! To me, this one felt a little like a novella than a novel. Usually there are multiple mysteries happening that all kind of feed into each other in some way; this one is not like that at all. Don’t get me wrong, I am not complaining! It was quite nice to just have the one mystery to keep track of in my mind. I liked getting to know a new character that is very similar to Emma. I think she needed someone to give her a run for her money! I hope to see their return in any upcoming books!

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Alchemy of Glass (The Apothecary Series) by Barbara Barnett – Review by Susan Ratchford

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Alchemy of GlassAlchemy of Glass by Barbara Barnett
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

What an amazing sequel to The Apothecary’s Curse. Barbara Barnett weaves a beautiful world beyond your wildest dreams! A world full of darkness and hope, Celtic and fairy lore, and amazing characters. Gaelen is such a fun and complex character, I enjoyed seeing Barnett’s world through his eyes. This series is truly unique and well thought out even the tiniest detail has purpose. I highly recommend reading this wonderful tale of you’re wanting to go on a journey through the bad and the good.

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Alchemy of Glass (The Apothecary Series) by Barbara Barnett – Review by Tausha Treadway

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Alchemy of GlassAlchemy of Glass by Barbara Barnett
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

The Alchemy of Glass by Barbara Barnett. This is the 2nd book in this series and I highly recommend reading the first book beforehand to better understand the story and characters. This is a historical, sci-fi mystery and its very full of information. This is a book you need to pay attention when you are reading so you don’t miss anything. Its the story of Gaelen who discovers a piece of glass in an old friends journal and it takes him on a journey thru different spaces and time periods. Gaelen goes thru all kinds of diseases with weird and different cures that throw Gaelen into all kinds of fits. He is seeing what a bleak future this world is going to endure. When he finds out that Dr. Anne Shaw is the only one that can help him find the cure he is not happy because in the prior book he did not treat her well at all. Will he be able to save the future world from itself? Read this fast paced historical mystery to find out!

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Notebook Mysteries ~ Art of Deception (Notebook Mysteries Series) by Kimberly Mullins – Review by Amber Howard

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Notebook Mysteries Art of DeceptionNotebook Mysteries Art of Deception by Kimberly Mullins
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Notebook Mysteries The Art of Deception is the latest book in the series, however it is the first book that I am reading by this author.

The book is quick paced. We get right into the mystery. Emma is crafty and resourceful. There were a few twist and turns. I really enjoy her and Jeremey’s relationship. Although it’s possible to read this book as a stand alone I think I would have more understand with background information on each character from the previous books.

I definitely give it a 4/5 stars.

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Alchemy of Glass Reviewed by Vicki Shelton

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Alchemy of GlassAlchemy of Glass by Barbara Barnett
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I was in love with this book from the beginning. Gaelan and Caitrin were intriguing. Enter Anne and a whole new amazing character is revealed! The final plot twist, I did not see coming! I cannot wait for another book by Barbara Barnett.

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Alchemy of Glass (The Apothecary Series) by Barbara Barnett – Review by Chrissy Spulak

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Alchemy of GlassAlchemy of Glass by Barbara Barnett
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This is the second book in The Apothecary’s Curse series. I have not read the first book, but it did not hinder my enjoyment of this one! I loved the historical mystery. The author’s way of telling the story is magical and so interesting that I did not want to put the book down. I will absolutely be reading the first one and then possibly this one again to get the full effect. That’s how good it is. Gaelen is a compelling character, and I had no trouble whatsoever getting wrapped up in his story and adventures. Trust me, you won’t want to miss this one!

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Alchemy of Glass (The Apothecary Series) by Barbara Barnett – Review by Alicia Furlan

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Alchemy of GlassAlchemy of Glass by Barbara Barnett
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Alchemy of Glass is the second book in the Apothecary Series. It follows Gaelan in the aftermath of book 1, The Apothecary’s Curse. He’s left facing the consequences of his actions while immortal. His only hope is Anne Shaw. Despite their past will she help him change the future?

This was a fantastical story that weaves through time. The author has done a great job of mixing genres to create this world. Even if you haven’t read the first book you’ll still enjoy this story. But as always I do recommend reading them in order, it will help with some details.

Reviewed by @aliciaknoke

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Alchemy of Glass (The Apothecary Series) by Barbara Barnett – Review by Kerry Baker

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Alchemy of GlassAlchemy of Glass by Barbara Barnett
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This book is a brilliant follow up to the first in the series, and I would highly recommend reading them in order for full enjoyment. This book picks up after the events of the first but really takes you on an exciting and fantastical journey. This time we get to follow Gaelen as he traverses through different times, taking the reader on an interesting journey. I loved watching how his character developed throughout this book. It was fitting to the overall story and really did his character justice.
I thought the overall story was a great addition to the series. It was interesting and had a lot going on. The author does a great job of handling a complex storyline. This was a brilliant book, even better than the first and I hope to see more from these characters.

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Wheel of Evil (Hani’s Daughter Mysteries) by N.L. Holmes – Review by Netania Lim

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Wheel of Evil (Hani's Daughter Mysteries Book 3)Wheel of Evil by N.L. Holmes
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I’ve read many of the author’s books before, and thoroughly enjoyed the mix of historical detail and adventure. This book is no different, and I must say that I liked that this novel got a bit close to home for the main character Nerefet. The plot is, as usual, full of twists and turns that kept me hooked. I love everything this author writes and recommend you read all the books in the series.

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Notebook Mysteries ~ Art of Deception (Notebook Mysteries Series) by Kimberly Mullins – Review by Brandy Vaughn

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Notebook Mysteries ~ Art of DeceptionNotebook Mysteries ~ Art of Deception by Kimberly Mullins
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Art of Deception is the seventh book in the Notebook Mysteries series. I have enjoyed this series quite a bit. This novel includes family drama, mystery, and intrigue to keep the reader turning the pages. I enjoy the strong female lead and her investigative skills. The story is appropriate for younger readers as well as adults and can be read on one sitting like I did!

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Wheel of Evil (Hani’s Daughter Mysteries) by N.L. Holmes – Review by Alicia Furlan

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Wheel of Evil (Hani's Daughter Mysteries Book 3)Wheel of Evil by N.L. Holmes
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Wheel of Evil is the third book in the Hani’s Daughter series. Neferet is back with a new mystery to solve. Her uncle got involved with some bad business dealings and people have been turning up dead. Both Neferet and her father, Hani, start investigating in their own ways. Will they be able to solve the mystery together? This is another great addition to this cozy mystery series. The author takes us on a journey through Ancient Egypt and what a journey it is. I enjoyed this final book in the series. I liked that the author had Neferet and her father working together to solve this mystery.

Reviewed by @aliciaknoke

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Flowers of Evil (Hani’s Daughter Mysteries Book 1) by N.L. Holmes – Review by Alicia Furlan

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Flowers of Evil (Hani's Daughter Mysteries #1)Flowers of Evil by N.L. Holmes
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This is the first novel in the Hani’s Daughter series. This mystery series is set in Ancient Egypt. The author does an amazing job describing the sights and life of Ancient Egypt. Neferet and Bener-ib are both senets (healers). They have opened their own shop together. A dying man enters their shop and they can’t save him. He utters a single word before his death that sets off an investigation by the two women. The author includes a glossary of terms and a character directory which was very helpful. If you’re looking for an enjoyable cozy mystery this is it.

Reviewed by @aliciaknoke

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