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Positive tags
Hero archetypes
Heroine archetypes
Tropes
Themes
Synopsis
A tea leaf reader in nineteenth-century England falls in love—and in danger—with a reclusive alchemist in an enthralling historical fantasy by the author of Salt & Broom and Grimm Curiosities . Cornwall, 1854. The people of Roche have always whispered about the recluse in the black granite tower that looms above the moorland. But one young woman is driven to discover the truth behind the old tales. Her life overshadowed by family tragedy, Mina Penrose escapes her lonely days by working at The Magpie, a cozy tearoom on the village’s edge. Lately she’s been seeing shapes in the sodden leaves that hint at the future. After one such omen, Mina stumbles upon a murdered man on the heath. Villagers immediately suspect Harker Tregarrick, a living, breathing mystery who never ventures beyond the bounds of his centuries-old estate. Until the day after the murder, when the handsome and compelling recluse visits The Magpie…leading to a meeting that will change both their fates. Captivated by a man around whom danger and rumors of death swirl, Mina has never felt more alive. Can she uncover Harker’s heartbreaking history—and the truth about the murder—before tragedy strikes again?
Is Tea & Alchemy appropriate for my child?
Suitable for most readers 16 and up.
A historical fantasy romance with a murder mystery thread. Contains a dead body discovery, village suspicion, and romantic tension between the heroine and a mysterious recluse with dark rumors surrounding him.
What to know going in
This book has moderate violence, moderate sexual content, and mild language. Content notes include murder, death, and grief (see the full list above).
Who'll love this
Readers who love atmospheric historical settings with tea magic, swoony romance, and solving mysteries will be captivated by Mina's journey.