The Alchemist's Secret

Brand new from the bestselling author of THE HOUSE OF THE WITCH.

'Her immersive stories have me completely hooked.' Martina Cole on Clare Marchant

Now: When Paige returns to her ancestral family home, Woodham Hall, she's nursing an unbearable heartbreak. The man she'd thought she loved has told her the most terrible lie, one she feels she'll never recover from. The only thing that seems to be able to hold her interest is the story of a poisoning that once supposedly happened in the house - depicted in brutal detail in a painting by an unknown artist...

1672: Jeanne's life at Woodham Hall is happy. Admittedly her brother-in-law - the lord of the manor - is unfaithful to her sister, causing terrible discord in the house. But Jeanne adores her sister, and her niece, Helene, and even though her growing feelings for another member of the household are illicit, they are bringing her great joy. That is, until Sir Robert chooses to move his mistress in.

Jeanne and her sister are to be banished to a French abbey to live out their days but all the sisters can think is how to get back to Helene, and the woman who Jeanne might just love. From the glittering court of the Sun King to the dark depths of French society and those who perform alchemy, they will do whatever they must. Even if it means murder...

Their stories are linked across history, with an unforgettable love story, and mystery that must be solved.

'Marchant's usual magical blend of strong women, well-researched historical settings and riveting plotlines knocks another stellar novel out the park.' Bestselling author, Jenni Keer on The Alchemist's Secret

'I was completely hooked by this brilliant timeslip novel. Unmissable!' Bestselling author, Louise Douglas

'A page turning historical novel that kept me guessing until the very end.' Bestselling author, Rachel Burton

'I absolutely loved this book... Historical fiction at its best. I loved the two strong women bound by place and history. I read [it] in two sittings, it was hard to put down!' Reader Review

'Wow!!! I was totally hooked from the very first page... A real page turner!' Reader Review

'A wonderful timeslip novel, that reminds me of Barbara Erskine... Highly recommended.' Reader Review

'Captivating... [A] gripping story of courage, resilience, history, triumph, discovery and hard-fought freedom. I highly recommend it!' Reader Review

'Wonderful!... A totally absorbing tale, I read it in a day... I absolutely loved it.' Reader Review

'Amazing and fascinating... So atmospheric... So many brilliant twists, and breath-holding moments, I really struggled to put down this fantastic book!' Reader Review