Set in 1952 London and later in other international locations, this middle-grade historical fantasy series follows an American girl newly arrived in England who becomes entangled with the son of a mysterious apothecary and a world of ancient magical chemistry being pursued by dangerous Cold War forces. The series blends historical atmosphere, adventure, and light magic in a story driven by friendship, family secrets, and globe-trotting danger.
In 1952 London, American girl Janie Scott's family is forced to move when her parents—television writers—are blacklisted, and she befriends the apothecary's son Benjamin, discovering that his father holds alchemical secrets of extraordinary power just as Cold War spies come looking for them. A richly atmospheric adventure blending Cold War history with magic. Beautiful illustrations and a distinctive period voice.
Two years after the first novel, Janie is in Los Angeles and Benjamin is in London, and both are drawn into a new alchemical conspiracy involving the secrets they uncovered together, requiring them to reconnect across great distance. A strong sequel that maintains the first book's atmosphere while raising the stakes globally.
The Apothecary trilogy concludes as Janie and Benjamin face the most dangerous threat yet—one that comes from the alchemical world they have been part of—and must determine how much they are willing to risk for each other and for the world. A warm and satisfying trilogy conclusion.