The Accidental Alchemist by Gigi Pandian: A review by Warren Bull

The Accidental Alchemist by Gigi Pandian: A review by Warren Bull

When herbalist and former alchemist, Zoe Faust, unpacks her belongings in her new hometown of Portland, Oregon, she notices that someone has gone through her things. Oddly enough, nothing is missing. In fact there is a new item, a three-and-a-half foot tall gargoyle carved so realistically that it almost seems to be alive. She is amazed to find that it is. 

Dorian Robert-Houdin is the creation of the great French magician and alchemistJean-Eugène Robert-Houdin who died in 1871. Dorian has a problem — He is turning to stone. If his past is remarkable, so is Zoe’s. She was born in Massachusetts in 1676. 

Zoe moved to Portland hoping to keep a low profile. She had lived in a trailer constantly on the move to leave no trace of her extraordinary lifespan. The city with the “Keep Portland Weird” motto was full of people reinventing themselves and not likely to ask or answer questions about the past. With respect for the environment, ancient rivers and a tolerance for variety in lifestyles, Portland seemed like a refuge for a woman weary of traveling and staying alone. But a body on her doorstep and a short master chef of French cuisine who used to be a stone figure force her to revise her plans. 

As a native of Portland, the local references added to my enjoyment while reading this delightful supernatural mystery. it is outside my usual reading fare and I thank the friend who suggested it. I recommend The Accidental Alchemist highly for an entertaining light-hearted romp.