This book was so good. It was so very interesting being part of Gaelan’s journey in life and trying to understand what he had gone through during his many lifetimes made for a very enjoyable read. The story had many twists and turns with a really surprising ending that made the story even better. I enjoyed reading this book and look forward to reading more from this author.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Cindy Rushinhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngCindy Rushin2024-08-19 19:48:072024-09-27 11:27:33The Apothecary’s Curse (The Apothecary Series) by Barbara Barnett – Review by Cindy Rushin
Simon bell, our main character is absolutely desperate to cure his wife’s cancer to he gives her an elixir which was created in an ancient manuscript, but instead of curing her it kills her In the depth of despair and distraught he vecomes suicidal and he takes the final dose of the Elixer but instead of also passing away… he instead finds he can’t die!
This lends into a well done story where simon is desperate to find anyone else like him. He finally finds Gaelen and they both want to end their I mmortality and are searching manuscirpts and time itself for how to stop it.
A pharmaceutical entity hears about the immortal men and of course wants to get involved. Along with that team is a renowned geneticist Dr shaw. Simon and Gaelen are not fans of Dr Shaw and treat her quite poorly which seems to have foreshadowing that not treating her will backfire.h Tis book does start slow, but hang on as when it picks up you wont put it back down. You will be immediately hunting book 2!
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Melissahttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngMelissa2024-08-19 19:30:152024-09-27 11:27:07The Apothecary’s Curse (The Apothecary Series) by Barbara Barnett – Review by Melissa Saxton
Book 2 of this series continues following Gaelen after we met him in the last book and learned of his immortality. We also saw how he treated Dr Shaw and as you may have guessed thats going to come back to haunt him. Second story starts with Gaelen’s discovery of a piece of glass in his friend Arthur Conan Doyle’s journal. The journey that starts was masterfully written. Gaelen time travels running into a lot of drama, love, anger,loss surprise and worst disease he has to idea how to stop it from destroying everything anf everyone. He will need Dr Shaws help…but what will he have to do to redeem himself and get her help because only the Two of them working together can save everyone and with how he treated her anyone would say no. Don’t miss this masterfully written book that kept me hanging word for word throughout
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Melissahttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngMelissa2024-08-19 18:23:362024-09-27 11:26:41Alchemy of Glass (The Apothecary Series) by Barbara Barnett – Review by Melissa Saxton
An enjoyable, engaging and intriguing historical fantasy novel that had me captivated throughout. Physician Simon and apothecary Gaelan first meet in Victorian London. Simon gives his wife an elixir created by Gaelan from an ancient manuscript, but instead of curing her cancer it kills her. A suicidal Simon then swallows the remainder hoping for the same result, but finds that he cannot die. Five years later and Simon learns that Gaelan also has regenerative powers and is a Bedlam inmate. They both conceal their immortality through the ages but remain hopeful of reversing the elixir if they can find Gaelan’s missing manuscript. In the modern-day a pharmaceutical company, Transdiff Genomics discovers diaries about Bedlam inmates being tortured. The scientists suspect a link between Gaelan and an unnamed inmate. Meanwhile, Gaelan and Genomics geneticist Anne seem to be powerfully drawn to one another. A revelation is made when they learn that Anne’s family has a connection to his manuscript. This is a dual timeline story which kept me hooked from start to finish. The descriptive narrative brought both past and present settings vividly to life, making me feel fully immersed in the story. I look forward to book two in this new series.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Jennifer Gordonhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngJennifer Gordon2024-08-19 16:28:192024-09-27 10:15:56The Apothecary’s Curse (The Apothecary Series) by Barbara Barnett – Review by Jennifer Gordon
The Apothecary’s Curse (The Apothecary Series) by Barbara Barnett is a great historical fantasy series.
When Gaelan Erceldoune, a pharmacist, creates an elixir from an old book for Simon Bell, a physician, their paths cross in Victorian London. Designed to treat her cancer, it ends her life. Suicidal, Simon swallows the rest, only to discover he is unable to pass away. After five years, Simon is surprised to learn that Gaelan is the Bedlam inmate who is rumored to possess regenerative powers similar to his own. The two men keep their immortality a secret, but Gaelan’s missing manuscript holds the key to changing their state. The scientists at Transdiff Genomics, a contemporary pharmaceutical business, believe there may be a connection between Gaelan and an anonymous Bedlam prisoner after discovering diaries detailing the abuse of inmates.
Every page had you hanging on every sentence and I couldn’t wait to see what would happen. It is a very unique story with even compelling people. The story really transports you into this world. I couldn’t put the book down.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Shadel Ayerbehttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngShadel Ayerbe2024-08-19 04:37:032024-09-27 11:30:47The Apothecary’s Curse (The Apothecary Series) by Barbara Barnett – Review by Shadel Ayerbe
The Apothecary’s Curse is a historical fantasy that takes place across multiple timelines, includes immortality, alchemy, and Celtic mythology. It was interesting to follow the main characters immortality and the story behind them. It made for a slow read at first but then later the action sped things up. The multiple timelines and point of views help create a layered plot that keeps the reader engaged with the story. With the way this novel ended there’s sure to be a second.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Brandy Vaughnhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngBrandy Vaughn2024-08-18 22:54:382024-09-27 11:30:07The Apothecary’s Curse (The Apothecary Series) by Barbara Barnett – Review by Brandy Vaughn
Alchemy of Glass is truly a tantalizing take on many genre forms, including sci-fi, fantasy, mythology, love, and adventure. The way the story is woven together across different periods is remarkable and engaging, ensuring the reader doesn’t have a moment of boredom. The whiplash while reading was rewarding and enthralls the reader from the get-go. This is the second book, however reading it as a stand-alone didn’t hinder me one bit.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Trishahttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngTrisha2024-08-18 21:07:572024-09-27 10:13:33Alchemy of Glass (The Apothecary Series) by Barbara Barnett – Review by Trisha Cargile
This is not my usual read, but I thought I’d try something different since the book description sounded intriguing. A lot of people skip the prologues of stories, but I started there, and I was hooked. Honestly, I can’t tell you what exactly grabbed me, but I was sucked into story and lost several hours watching it play out like a movie in my head.
I enjoyed the switches in time periods, getting glimpses of Gaelan’s past as he’s also navigating the present. It takes talent to be able to switch between past and present and not make it feel jarring to the reader.
The worldbuilding is excellent without being excessive, and the characters were interesting. This story is a mix of Gaslamp fiction, mythology, alchemy, and science, and would be a good read for people who love that type of blended fantasy.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Naomi McDonaldhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngNaomi McDonald2024-08-17 21:05:392024-09-27 08:46:16The Apothecary’s Curse (The Apothecary Series) by Barbara Barnett – Review by Naomi McDonald
4 Stars Alchemy of Glass (The Apothecary Series) by Barbara Barnett
Alchemy of Glass is a Historical Fantasy that will have you turning the pages till the end. I will be honest and say this book started out so slow and it took me a while to get into the story. I didn’t feel connected to the characters but it could be the mood I was in. I’m going to revisit reading this again at a later time. See how I feel about it then. The storyline flowed but seemed choppy to me at times. The hopping around got tiresome but understand why the story was doing it. I recommend reading this book if you enjoy Fantasy, Sci-Fi. I’m looking forward to rereading this and many more by this Author.https://itsybitsybookbits.com/f
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Dawn Daughenbaughhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngDawn Daughenbaugh2024-08-16 04:05:182024-09-27 08:13:01Alchemy of Glass (The Apothecary Series) by Barbara Barnett – Review by Dawn Daughenbaugh
The Apothecary’s Curse by Barbara Barnett is a steampunk adventure with historical inspirations. The history and settings are very well done and the story is intricately woven to be believable and easy to follow. Simon Bell mixes up an elaborate elixir, created by another man, to cure his wife’s cancer, only it ends with deadly consequences. Upon taking the remaining dose, he discovers he is unable to die. This historical fantasy takes place across multiple timelines and touches on mythical ideas of immortality, alchemy, and mythology. I enjoyed this book overall but I do wish the characters were a little more in-depth, and the story took a different path at some points. It was a fun read in a genre I would not typcially read, and it did hold my attention, so kudos to the author.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Amanda Swindlehttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngAmanda Swindle2024-08-15 18:59:492024-09-27 08:05:25The Apothecary’s Curse (The Apothecary Series) by Barbara Barnett – Review by Amanda Swindle
This book could be read as a standalone but it would be better to read it after reading The Apothecarys Curse since it takes place after and does mention things from it. This one follows the future after the ending of Apothecarys. Gaelen finds that there are dire consequences to everything he did throughout his immortal life when using the Ouroboros. He must find a way to prevent the devastation the future faces. It’s full of adventure, loss, love, healing, and time travel. It’s a great read with good writing and description.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Rose McCaskeyhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngRose McCaskey2024-08-15 08:12:462024-09-27 08:03:49Alchemy of Glass (The Apothecary Series) by Barbara Barnett – Review by Rose McCaskey
The book started slow for me, many other readers have stated this can be read as a standalone, so I went into reading this as one. But I feel I should have started with book one, so if you haven’t as well, you should. I enjoyed reading about the fairies, the book felt really creative and different which I enjoyed. I thought the characters were great and going into different time periods was cool; the ending was very sweet, and I liked how things ended for Anne and Gaelan.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Darianhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngDarian2024-08-15 04:51:552024-09-27 08:03:36Alchemy of Glass (The Apothecary Series) by Barbara Barnett – Review by Darian Vester
Alchemy of Glass is the second book in The Apothecary Series by Barbara Barnett. This follows on from what we started in Book one, and although it could be read as a standalone, I think you would really benefit from reading Book #1 first, as that holds a lot of important information that I think you should know in order to fully appreciate this story. Here, the story weaves between the past and present, a wonderful blend of historical fantasy, with sci-fi/cutting edge science, romance, magic, mystery, intrigue, the supernatural, the Fae + fairy lore, immortality, drama, love, loss, emotion, myth/Celtic mythology, tension, difficult choices, high stakes, and is ‘more than first meets the eye’. How could a small piece of broken glass thrust Galean into an adventure he could never have anticipated? Well, if you love historical fantasy mixed with sci-fi and adventure, then this engrossing story is one you should read and discover all the intriguing developments for yourself….
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Angela Hayeshttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngAngela Hayes2024-08-15 00:08:392024-09-24 19:41:40Alchemy of Glass (The Apothecary Series Book #2) by Barbara Barnett – Review by Angela Hayes
I really enjoyed this book! I didn’t know that it was the sequel to “The Apothecary’s Curse” but I feel like I didn’t miss much. But, I think I will go back and read it and then reread this book. Other than that, this book was wonderfully done. I really enjoyed the science aspects, the history of Sir Arthur Conan Doyle, and the fantasy parts. Another reader said that this would fit in the dark fantasy genre, and I agree. It does get a little dark, but not super dark. I loved the back and forth between timelines, it was really well done, and I wasn’t left feeling like I was being jerked back and forth, the transitioning between timelines was well done. I’m super picky with my male main characters, but reading Gaelan’s story I felt connected to him, and I could understand his way of thinking. It was a mix of intelligence and emotional responses. This book might not everyone’s cup of tea, but it sure was mine and I’m glad I took a chance on it!
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Crystal Jimmohttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngCrystal Jimmo2024-08-14 21:33:592024-09-27 08:16:49Alchemy of Glass (The Apothecary Series) by Barbara Barnett – Review by Crystal Jimmo
This is the first book in the The Apothecary Series and wow what a way to start. This book has so many elements, from historical fiction, to danger, mystery, touches of horror and a little bit of sci-fi into the mix. The author has done an incredible job of creating a story which is unique and also captivating . Once I started reading I couldn’t put it down. When the timeline changed from past to present I feared I may struggle with the change but the authors writing style made the switch easy to follow. This is a story that spans a long time. It involves two men Dr Simon Bell and apothecary Gaelan Erceldoune.
When Simon’s wife is dying of cancer he reaches out to Gaelan to save her. So Gaelan uses a old manuscript to create a potion to do that. When this fails and Simons’s wife dies he takes the rest of the potion in the hopes of following her into death. Unfortunately that didn’t happen. Instead Simon is forced to live an immortal life. Trying the reverse this curse he goes to the only other person who is in the same situation and is surprised to discover it is Gaelan.
The only way they can reverse this curse is to find Gaelan’s missing manuscripts however that will not be a straight forward thing to find. With powerful people also looking into the past and the missing manuscript could this finally be the end of Gaelan’s secret existence? When diaries are unearthed with details about a inmate will they lead them to Gaelan’s door. And what will happen if they find the manuscript? Will another connection in the search for it leave Simon and Gaelan to destruction or the salvation they are hoping to find.
I was so captivated in this story that I couldn’t put it down. I can’t wait for the next book in the series.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Kerry Carrhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngKerry Carr2024-08-14 11:36:222024-09-24 19:55:02The Apothecary’s Curse (The Apothecary Series) by Barbara Barnett – Review by Kerry Carr
Alchemy of glass is book two in the apothecary’s series. This is the first book that i have read by this author. I did not read book one in this series but i was still able to follow along with it, but as good as this book was i wish i would of started with book one so me personally would recommend you starting from the beginning. I loved this book, A historical fantasy read that takes you away. I loved the plot it keep me engrossed the whole time not to mention Gaelen i just loved reading about her. Once i picked this book up i was unable to put down. I Look forward to reading more book by this Author and reading more about Gaelen’s adventures. Thank you to the Author for writing a wonderful read. @stephaniedulac25
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Stephanie Dulachttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngStephanie Dulac2024-08-14 02:47:542024-09-27 08:02:09Alchemy of Glass by Barbara Barnett- Reviewed by Stephanie Dulac
The Apothecary’s Curse is the first book in The Apothecary Series by Barbara Barnett. This story had so much going on, with historical fantasy, some darker tones, sci-fi elements, a steampunk vibe, some horror themes, mystery, suspense, a quest, secrets, supernatural elements, immortality, destiny/fate, and plenty of drama. Two men, an elixir, immortality, and an ancient manuscript led to a thrilling adventure. The author has crafted a very detailed and descriptive tale, full of texture and vivid imagery. It is a very original story with some clever touches that made for an intriguing read. Looking forward to ‘Alchemy of Glass’ (Book #2). Happy Reading…
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Angela Hayeshttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngAngela Hayes2024-08-13 23:58:162024-09-24 19:41:21The Apothecary’s Curse (The Apothecary Series Book #1) by Barbara Barnett – Review by Angela Hayes
What a fascinating continuation. This is really an odd scifi with a time-traveling theme that pulls you in. You’ll want to read book 1 first to really understand. Don’t get me wrong, you can read it as a stand alone, it just helps clarify some things. I found that this storyline is so unique that I was jumping right back in. Intriguing characters with such a quirky and unique story really made for an entertaining read.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Shelly Kittellhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngShelly Kittell2024-08-13 05:53:462024-09-01 06:52:16Alchemy of Glass (The Apothecary Series) by Barbara Barnett – Review by Shelly Kittell
First time reader of this author Barbara Barnett. I found the cover very intriguing. I had to give it a go. Although historical reads aren’t my top fave, this book had so much more than just that. It also has romance, fantasy,and mystery. I was happy I started reading this story.Barnett’s strength lies in her detailed and immersive world-building. The historical setting is meticulously researched, creating a vivid and authentic atmosphere. The characters are well-developed, particularly the protagonist, whose internal struggles and moral dilemmas add depth to the narrative. The dialogue is sharp, and the interplay between the historical and fantastical elements is handled with skill.i cant wait to check out more of this author and more of this world.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Hannah porterhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngHannah porter2024-08-12 22:58:222024-09-27 07:59:11The Apothecary’s Curse (The Apothecary Series) by Barbara Barnett – Review by Hannah Porter
Alchemy of Glass Barbara Barnett 4 – 4.5 stars I recently finished reading The Apothecary’s Curse and thoroughly enjoyed it, so I decided to read Alchemy of Glass. Barbara weaves a narrative that spans multiple periods, including the 1800s, the present, and the future. The book combines romance, historical fiction, fantasy, mythology, and sci-fi, all driven by well-developed and intriguing characters into one exciting tale. The story follows Gaelen’s journey as he discovers a piece of glass that leads him on a quest across different time periods to save humanity. This intricate tale skilfully balances light and darkness. Despite all he has done to her, can Gaelen get Dr. Anne Shaw to help him on his quest? If you enjoy mystery, history, sci-fi, and the supernatural, Alchemy of Glass is a perfect fit. In summary, Alchemy of Glass intertwines cutting-edge science and ancient Celtic mythology, merging fairy lore with the challenging choices faced by Gaelen as he strives to prevent a catastrophic future.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Jenni Bishophttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngJenni Bishop2024-08-12 20:29:592024-09-27 07:57:05Alchemy of Glass (The Apothecary Series) by Barbara Barnett – Review by Jenni Bishop
Barbara Barnett’s Alchemy of Glass is an enchanting blend of fantasy, science, and myth, intricately crafted to captivate readers who revel in imaginative storytelling. Set against the backdrop of the mystical Eildon Hills, Barnett draws readers into a world where the boundaries between reality and fantasy are intriguingly blurred.
Barnett’s narrative seamlessly weaves Celtic mythology with elements of modern science, creating a tapestry of intrigue and wonder. The notion of glass as both a physical and metaphorical conduit between worlds adds a unique and compelling dimension to the story. Gaelan’s quest to navigate this surreal journey while confronting his own past and future is both poignant and thrilling.
The pacing of the novel keeps readers engaged, with its richly detailed world-building and well-developed characters. Gaelan’s internal struggles and the external challenges he faces are portrayed with depth, making his journey both a personal and universal exploration of destiny and choice.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Jennifer Crainhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngJennifer Crain2024-08-12 09:19:482024-09-27 08:18:39Alchemy of Glass (The Apothecary Series) by Barbara Barnett – Review by Jennifer Crain
In the catacombs of an ancient ruined monastery, hidden away in the Eildon Hills of Scotland, a land of myth and mystery–the place where immortal apothecary Gaelan Erceldoune found sanctuary as a lad– Gaelan discovers a journal, apparently written by his old friend Sir Arthur Conan Doyle, chronicling an adventure into the Otherworld, a land of fairy castles and filigree trees hung with Spanish moss.
Falling from the journal’s pages, a small piece of glass, which Gaelan recognizes as a fragment long missing from a stained glass panel he’d created a century earlier. When the opalescent glass seems to come alive in his hand, Gaelan is suddenly thrust into strange world far from the fantastical dreamscape Conan Doyle describes.
Alchemy of Glass weaves a tale magical as spun glass and terrifying as a shattered mirror, drawing upon cutting edge science and the most ancient of Celtic mythology, intertwining the magic of fairy lore and the harsh reality of difficult choices, returning us to the world of Gaelan Erceldoune as his past, present and future collide.
Barbara Barnett is the author of three books, including the award-winning The Apothecary’s Curse, a finalist for the prestigious Bram Stoker Award for a debut novel. She is an editor-at-large and former publisher and executive editor of Blogcritics (blogcritics.org), an Internet magazine of pop culture, politics, and more, for which she has also contributed nearly 1,000 essays, reviews, and interviews over the past decade. Always a pop-culture and sci-fi geek, Barbara was raised on a steady diet of TV (and TV dinners), but she always found her way to fiction’s tragic anti- heroes and misunderstood champions, whether on TV, in the movies, or in literature. (In other words, Spock, not Kirk; Han Solo, not Luke Skywalker!) Her first book, Chasing Zebras: The Unofficial Guide to House, M.D. (ECW Press), reflects her passion for these Byronic heroes, and it was inevitable that she would have to someday create one of her own in Gaelan Erceldoune, hero of both The Apothecary’s Curse and The Alchemy of Glass.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/alchemy-cover.jpg1000706itsybitsybookbitshttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngitsybitsybookbits2024-08-12 00:01:572024-08-26 09:12:50Alchemy of Glass (The Apothecary Series) by Barbara Barnett
Barbara Barnett is a first time author for me so I wasn’t sure what to expect. But I was surprised, in a great way! The Apothecary’s Curse combines fantasy, myths, science, and history into an fascinating story spanning centuries. The story follows Gaelan and Simon as they traverse the world, as immortals. Written from dual time periods, this book is well-written and seemed carefully researched. The world building is amazing, full of visuals of Victorian London and present day Chicago. The characters are realistic, believable, and oddly lovable. The connection between the past and present is palpable and engrossing in The Apothecary’s Curse. The story started off a little slow, but the pace quickly picked up and I couldn’t put it down. I cannot wait to read more by Barbara Barnett.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Mandy Otthttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngMandy Ott2024-08-11 22:50:282024-09-27 07:55:12The Apothecary’s Curse (The Apothecary Series) by Barbara Barnett – Review by Mandy Ott
In Victorian London, Simon Bell makes an elixir created by Gaelen Erceldoune from an ancient manuscript. Simon gives his wife the elixir meant to cure her cancer but instead it kills her. Simon takes the leftover elixir only to discover he can’t die. The two men connect 5 years later as they try to conceal their immortality. The novel continues to weave through time following the lives of Simon and Gealan.
I really enjoyed this first book in the series. It took me a little longer to get into the book as I found the first half moved slower. Although I usually find this the case with books from a series – it just takes longer to build the characters and their histories. It’s worth it because the characters in this one are well written and the story is fantastic.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Alicia Furlanhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngAlicia Furlan2024-08-10 19:51:252024-09-27 08:21:03The Apothecary’s Curse (The Apothecary Series) by Barbara Barnett – Review by Alicia Furlan
This loved this book so much; I am always fascinated by books that can weave in real life history into a book that really makes it feel like it was alive. The development to this story really made me feel like I was right there along for the ride. This book was filled with so much from time traveling, history, mystery, sci-fi, fantasy and a little romance rolled all into one. The twists and turns into this story really had e from the beginning. The story was incredible with a friendship over 200 years, Simon and Gaelan, trying to help he’s wife things turned for the worse and now Simon can’t seem to follow were he’s wife went. The ending was more surprising, it seems that it left opening for the second book, which I can’t not wait to dive into. I would highly recommend.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Jennifer Reimerhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngJennifer Reimer2024-08-09 11:41:502024-09-27 08:23:13The Apothecary’s Curse (The Apothecary Series) by Barbara Barnett – Review by Jennifer Reimer
Loved this! It’s the story of Simon and Gaelan who have been friends for over 200 years. It tells Gaelan’s story back in 1837 and flicks between present day and into the past. Simon unwittingly kills his wife and himself becomes immortal so Simon is determined to find Gaelan’s magical book and end his life. Gaelan has a long and wonderful life. He’s seen so much and it’s fascinating the way it’s written in two different times. There’s so many twists and turns in the story I just couldn’t put it down! I loved it! I’m buying number 2 right now! Highly recommend!
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Emma Samwayshttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngEmma Samways2024-08-06 13:05:092024-09-27 07:39:29The Apothecary’s Curse, The Apothecary Series, Barbara Barnett, Review, Itsy Bitsy Book Bits, Historical, Fantasy
I found it to be a good story. The story did have it’s beautiful moments even as it dealt with loss and other issues. I found myself unable to connect with the story. The characters seems to be developed well. I felt there was a lot of detail. I do feel that fans of sci-fi, fantasy would like this.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Shelly Kittellhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngShelly Kittell2024-08-05 02:39:322024-09-01 06:46:42The Apothecary’s Curse (The Apothecary Series) by Barbara Barnett – Review by Shelly Kittell
From the description, I knew this book would be filled with many twists and turns, but what I wasn’t expecting was to be drawn into an unique series that will have everyone glued to the pages. The settings of Victorian London and more were so well written and vivid I felt like I was there and I didn’t want to leave! Barnett is such a creative and great author I would love to look more into her work. Her writing style had me hooked from the first page! The exchanges between Simon and Gaelan kept the story moving and it touched upon so many different things I really enjoy like celtic lore and steampunk. I am very excited that Barnett is releasing a second book in this intriguing and wonderful world!
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Susan Ratchfordhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngSusan Ratchford2024-08-03 23:52:332024-09-27 07:32:04The Apothecary’s Curse (The Apothecary Series) by Barbara Barnett – Review by Susan Ratchford
Interesting is just the tip of the iceberg on how to describe this book. While I’ll admit I don’t often read many historical fantasy books, this one just grabbed my attention. The author’s incredible talent in weaving so many things into the perfect package was flawless. Simon Bell, Gaelan Erceldoune and Anne Shawe each bring their own perspective to the story. Simon tried everything to save his wife, but nothing worked, when he was unable to follow her, he must figure out what to do next with his life. Five years pass and rumors give Simon a purpose, to find Gaelan and start trying to figure out what made them immortal and how can they undo it. Thus, the hunt for the missing manuscript begins. Time passes and a modern-day pharmaceutical company finds diaries describing what the Bedlam inmates endured. Suddenly, Gaelan is drawn to a geneticist Anne Shawe the brings more mysteries and discoveries. How is Anne’s family connected to the manuscript? Will Simon and Gaelan find a cure to their immortality? Everything about this book pulls you in. The beginning is slow but honestly all the greatest books and discoveries had a leadup. Once things pick up its full immersion as the author takes you through the twists and turns of not only historical aspects but how they compare to modern ones. How the characters grow and evolve throughout leaves you ready for more but feeling complete if a sequel doesn’t come. I struggled in many ways on how to write this review without giving anything away but honestly my heart is still racing and so is my mind.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Ayla Phippshttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngAyla Phipps2024-08-03 21:34:152024-09-27 07:31:32The Apothecary’s Curse (The Apothecary Series) by Barbara Barnett – Review by Ayla Phipps
Alchemist, Gaelan Erceldoune, creates an elixir to help cure cancer. When an acquaintance, physician Simon Bell, desperately seeks Gaelan’s help with his wife, tragedy ensues and Mrs. Bell dies. In hopes of following his wife to the afterlife, Simon takes the remaining liquid. Instead of dying, Simon becomes immortal like Gaelan. The story starts slow, but then picks up and I couldn’t put it down.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Terri Jo McAllisterhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngTerri Jo McAllister2024-08-01 11:28:142024-09-26 12:55:11The Apothecary’s Curse (The Apothecary Series) by Barbara Barnett – Review by Terri Jo McAllister
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