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The Alchemy of Flowers: A Novel
1 pages, Audio CD
Published April 16, 2025
3 people are currently reading
36 people want to read
About the author
Laura Resau
16 books427 followersLaura Resau is the author of The Alchemy of Flowers, The River Muse (May 2026), and eleven acclaimed books for children and teens. Her books have garnered nineteen starred trade reviews, five Colorado Book Awards, and spots on “best-of” book lists from Oprah, School Library Journal, and the American Library Association. Trilingual, she’s lived in Provence and Oaxaca, and has a background in cultural anthropology, languages, and ESL. She teaches graduate creative writing at Western Colorado University. You might find her writing in her cozy vintage trailer in Fort Collins, Colorado, where she lives with her rock-hound husband, musician son, wild husky, and a hundred house plants.
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Displaying 1 - 11 of 11 reviews
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July 7, 2025A 5 star book - beautiful, whimsical and wonderfully introspective.
First I will mention the narrator, I was so impressed by the beautiful warm voice that rose to the challenge of not only doing many different characters but also giving each a French accent. Very well done, it added so much authenticity to the atmosphere. It was easy to imagine the southern French garden and its magical ambience.
The story was beautiful as well, exquisitely blending themes of grief and healing against a backdrop of lush gorgeous nature. I enjoyed the magical realism elements (the twilight hour mystery, the messages from the plants in the garden, the lurking statues) and how the mystical aspects were weaved into the story, particularly the maiden/mother/crone motif and how it related to the main character's growth.
The main character's journey was emotional, immersive and relatable. I was not expecting such depth from the book's description, yet I'm so happy to see sensitive topics treated with such care and tenderness along with crafting a main character that is mature in both age and intellect.
The side characters were well rounded, with interesting backgrounds and their relationships were lovely to follow along. I loved the scenes where they'd all gather for outdoor late dinners with homemade food and they'd talk into the night.
The mystery of the story is slow to unfold yet I loved the pacing of the book. The story twists happen towards the second half, were fun to see and I as so glad they converged towards a happy ending for the FMC.
It's obvious this book was written with a lot of care, compassion and thoughtfulness. The FMCs journey was beautiful to watch unfold and I felt happy and sad along with her. I had *all the feels* listening to this book and I'm so glad that I picked it up..
Tigger warnings: infertility, illness, body image issues
August 18, 2025
Laura Resau’s The Alchemy of Flowers is an intoxicating descent into a world where the boundaries between reality and the otherworld fray like old silk. It is, at once, a gothic thriller, a poetic meditation on grief and transformation, and a spellbinding ode to the hidden language of flowers.
Set in a shadow-drenched town where secrets bloom like wild vines, the story follows a young woman drawn into a web of mystery after the sudden disappearance of her sister. What begins as a search for truth quickly unfurls into something far stranger and more haunting—a journey into ancestral magic, forgotten rituals, and the ancient wisdom buried deep in root and petal.
Resau’s prose is lush, lyrical, and richly atmospheric. Every page drips with imagery that feels both delicate and dangerous, like a rose whose thorns draw blood when held too tightly. The story pulses with gothic undertones—crumbling greenhouses, cryptic journals, and apparitions glimpsed in the flicker of candlelight—yet never loses sight of the quiet hope buried in even the darkest soil.
What makes The Alchemy of Flowers so unforgettable is its ability to hold contradictions in perfect balance: beauty and decay, sorrow and wonder, death and rebirth. As the narrative unfolds, you're never quite sure what is real and what lies just beyond the veil—and that’s exactly the point. Resau invites readers to question everything they think they know about love, memory, and the nature of transformation.
Dark, dreamy, and unrelentingly immersive, The Alchemy of Flowers is more than a novel—it’s a spell. And once it’s cast, you won’t want to escape
Set in a shadow-drenched town where secrets bloom like wild vines, the story follows a young woman drawn into a web of mystery after the sudden disappearance of her sister. What begins as a search for truth quickly unfurls into something far stranger and more haunting—a journey into ancestral magic, forgotten rituals, and the ancient wisdom buried deep in root and petal.
Resau’s prose is lush, lyrical, and richly atmospheric. Every page drips with imagery that feels both delicate and dangerous, like a rose whose thorns draw blood when held too tightly. The story pulses with gothic undertones—crumbling greenhouses, cryptic journals, and apparitions glimpsed in the flicker of candlelight—yet never loses sight of the quiet hope buried in even the darkest soil.
What makes The Alchemy of Flowers so unforgettable is its ability to hold contradictions in perfect balance: beauty and decay, sorrow and wonder, death and rebirth. As the narrative unfolds, you're never quite sure what is real and what lies just beyond the veil—and that’s exactly the point. Resau invites readers to question everything they think they know about love, memory, and the nature of transformation.
Dark, dreamy, and unrelentingly immersive, The Alchemy of Flowers is more than a novel—it’s a spell. And once it’s cast, you won’t want to escape
July 24, 2025
The Alchemy of Flowers by Laura Resau made me wish for an avid green thumb and long for a dreamy home amongst a secret garden in a countryside province in France. This mystical story, at times, filled my heart with sadness, as it provided strong reminders of my own motherhood journey. At the same time, following Eloise's story through harrowing moments and immersive illuminations, it left me yearning to know more about Greek mythology.
While slow at the start, the beautifully written imagery and drawn-out beginning allowed me to become absorbed in the characters, so that by the end of the story, I was just as enthralled in the mystery as they were. The Alchemy of Flowers, at its core, is a story of deep longing, love, and hope.
I had the unique opportunity to read this captivating story and listen to the audiobook narrative simultaneously. It was mesmerizing to read along as each descriptive chapter set the mood, and the narrator shared the voices of the characters within. I was enchanted.
I would like to thank NetGalley, author Laura Resau, narrator Cassandra Campbell, and the publisher Harper Muse for this unique opportunity to fall in love with this story. In my opinion, I give this story five shining stars. I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
While slow at the start, the beautifully written imagery and drawn-out beginning allowed me to become absorbed in the characters, so that by the end of the story, I was just as enthralled in the mystery as they were. The Alchemy of Flowers, at its core, is a story of deep longing, love, and hope.
I had the unique opportunity to read this captivating story and listen to the audiobook narrative simultaneously. It was mesmerizing to read along as each descriptive chapter set the mood, and the narrator shared the voices of the characters within. I was enchanted.
I would like to thank NetGalley, author Laura Resau, narrator Cassandra Campbell, and the publisher Harper Muse for this unique opportunity to fall in love with this story. In my opinion, I give this story five shining stars. I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
July 6, 2025
The Alchemy of Flowers
By Laura Resau
Narrated by Cassandra Campbell
From the moment I encountered The Alchemy of Flowers I was captivated. As a child, I adored The Secret Garden, & I assure you, @lauraresau's garden aptly named Paradise will not disappoint. You'll soon find yourself pondering the delicate line between reality and illusion in this magical realm.
The novel is beautifully written, so much so that I struggle to find the words to do it justice. We've all experienced dark moments in our lives—times when we feel utterly broken and in desperate need of healing. Life's unpredictable ups & downs can deliver some truly unexpected blows, & that’s precisely the journey Eloise faces. Her fierce desire to become a mother has cost her dear friendships & ultimately, her husband. So when she stumbles upon an ad that reads:
“Help Wanted: Seeking a gardener for the ancient walled Jardins du Paradis in the South of France. Unique and rustic lodging provided. Off the grid in all ways. One must grow flowers from one's merde…”
She thinks, "Why not?" Feeling shattered & lost, Eloise decides to take a leap of faith, leaving her life in the States behind to embrace a new chapter in France, living on the grounds of a stunning castle with a gated garden.
This novel is a tapestry woven with mystery, healing, friendships, & a touch of magic that flirts with the realm of magical realism. It’s a story that lingers in your thoughts long after the final page is turned. At its heart, it’s a poignant reminder of how one can become so ensnared by their obsessions that they lose sight of the joy in living, thereby overlooking the incredible potential that lies within.
This is a delightful narrative, one that I believe you will thoroughly enjoy. Cassandra Campbell's narration is superb, adding depth to the story & bringing each character's voice to life, not to mention her lovely pronunciation of all the French words. The enchanting garden, the French setting, & the mysteries hidden within the garden's walls add even more layers to the tale.
Special thanks to Harper Muse Audiobooks, Harper Muse & @uplitreads for providing both the audiobook & the ARC.
By Laura Resau
Narrated by Cassandra Campbell
From the moment I encountered The Alchemy of Flowers I was captivated. As a child, I adored The Secret Garden, & I assure you, @lauraresau's garden aptly named Paradise will not disappoint. You'll soon find yourself pondering the delicate line between reality and illusion in this magical realm.
The novel is beautifully written, so much so that I struggle to find the words to do it justice. We've all experienced dark moments in our lives—times when we feel utterly broken and in desperate need of healing. Life's unpredictable ups & downs can deliver some truly unexpected blows, & that’s precisely the journey Eloise faces. Her fierce desire to become a mother has cost her dear friendships & ultimately, her husband. So when she stumbles upon an ad that reads:
“Help Wanted: Seeking a gardener for the ancient walled Jardins du Paradis in the South of France. Unique and rustic lodging provided. Off the grid in all ways. One must grow flowers from one's merde…”
She thinks, "Why not?" Feeling shattered & lost, Eloise decides to take a leap of faith, leaving her life in the States behind to embrace a new chapter in France, living on the grounds of a stunning castle with a gated garden.
This novel is a tapestry woven with mystery, healing, friendships, & a touch of magic that flirts with the realm of magical realism. It’s a story that lingers in your thoughts long after the final page is turned. At its heart, it’s a poignant reminder of how one can become so ensnared by their obsessions that they lose sight of the joy in living, thereby overlooking the incredible potential that lies within.
This is a delightful narrative, one that I believe you will thoroughly enjoy. Cassandra Campbell's narration is superb, adding depth to the story & bringing each character's voice to life, not to mention her lovely pronunciation of all the French words. The enchanting garden, the French setting, & the mysteries hidden within the garden's walls add even more layers to the tale.
Special thanks to Harper Muse Audiobooks, Harper Muse & @uplitreads for providing both the audiobook & the ARC.
July 18, 2025
A wonderfully immersive story, and beautiful detailed descriptions of the gardens of Paradise. Magical and aromatic. Thank you NetGalley.
August 4, 2025
Unusual and intriguing
October 4, 2025
This book is so fun and I would love to live in a garden! The mystical twists and the relationships in the book were wonderful and well thought out. I loved that the main character talked and listened to the flowers, I loved talking to mine- great therapy!
September 7, 2025
Where do I even begin with this book. I loved this book so much. After years of infertility Eloise finds herself moving to france to work in the gardens of Paradise... where there are so many rules and secret that Eloise slowly unfolds. This story is feel focuses on healing and really gives you hope. It really is a... when life hands you 'merde', use it to grow beautiful flowers story. The story has aspects of magical realism, mystery and romance that is just captivating.
Can to recommend this book enough and cant wait to read her new one coming next year
"Here lie the bones of those who broke the rules..."
Can to recommend this book enough and cant wait to read her new one coming next year
"Here lie the bones of those who broke the rules..."
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 4, 2025
Somewhat slow pace but lush and lyrical descriptions. A satisfying story with whimsy
July 21, 2025
Laura Resau’s debut is part fantasy, part romance, and part mystery, set in an enchanting secret garden.
This was an easy listen, although the plot progression was a bit slow at times. Resau does an excellent job immersing readers in the French castle garden setting. The lush, haunting imagery of The Secret Garden paired with the whimsical talking flowers a la Alice in Wonderland give it a nostalgic charm. The mystery is set up well enough to build some intrigue, although its conclusion fell short for me.
The story is told from the first person perspective of Eloise, an American woman in her late thirties, consumed by grief after suffering multiple miscarriages, a failed adoption, and divorce. She accepts a mysterious job offer at a secretive French garden estate. There, she meets the rest of the staff, all of whom have their own experiences of loss and trauma involving children.
Although I enjoyed the characters at surface level, they lacked adequate depth. Their stories are adequately compelling, but the characters’ personalities are not explored much beyond those stories. Other than a few minor details, their dialogue and contributions to the plot are not very distinguishable from one another. Unfortunately, this amounts to an entire cast of characters who are very much defined by their traumas.
Despite its shortcomings, I eagerly devoured this book in one sitting. I would recommend it to anyone looking for a quick, engaging read—with just a little sprinkle of spice—set in a world you can easily lose yourself in.
Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for an advanced copy of this audiobook in exchange for my honest review.
This was an easy listen, although the plot progression was a bit slow at times. Resau does an excellent job immersing readers in the French castle garden setting. The lush, haunting imagery of The Secret Garden paired with the whimsical talking flowers a la Alice in Wonderland give it a nostalgic charm. The mystery is set up well enough to build some intrigue, although its conclusion fell short for me.
The story is told from the first person perspective of Eloise, an American woman in her late thirties, consumed by grief after suffering multiple miscarriages, a failed adoption, and divorce. She accepts a mysterious job offer at a secretive French garden estate. There, she meets the rest of the staff, all of whom have their own experiences of loss and trauma involving children.
Although I enjoyed the characters at surface level, they lacked adequate depth. Their stories are adequately compelling, but the characters’ personalities are not explored much beyond those stories. Other than a few minor details, their dialogue and contributions to the plot are not very distinguishable from one another. Unfortunately, this amounts to an entire cast of characters who are very much defined by their traumas.
Despite its shortcomings, I eagerly devoured this book in one sitting. I would recommend it to anyone looking for a quick, engaging read—with just a little sprinkle of spice—set in a world you can easily lose yourself in.
Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for an advanced copy of this audiobook in exchange for my honest review.
August 29, 2025
Wow, such a beautiful story! The narrator took such care in reading this story, which was so nice to hear.
Magic and mystery mixed with a beautiful backdrop: literal paradise.. or so it seems. The mystery surrounding the garden in paradise was so intriguing and kept me hooked to this audiobook. It was a bit of a slow start, but painted an absolutely gorgeous background world while building up to the bulk of the story.
Topics of infertility are handled with such thoughtfulness while also navigating the idea of peace and hope separate from reproduction gracefully.
All in all, this was such a captivating audiobook! I highly recommend for anyone who loves a lush garden and French accents!
Thank you so much to NetGalley and Harper Muse Audiobooks for ARC access to this book!
Magic and mystery mixed with a beautiful backdrop: literal paradise.. or so it seems. The mystery surrounding the garden in paradise was so intriguing and kept me hooked to this audiobook. It was a bit of a slow start, but painted an absolutely gorgeous background world while building up to the bulk of the story.
Topics of infertility are handled with such thoughtfulness while also navigating the idea of peace and hope separate from reproduction gracefully.
All in all, this was such a captivating audiobook! I highly recommend for anyone who loves a lush garden and French accents!
Thank you so much to NetGalley and Harper Muse Audiobooks for ARC access to this book!
Displaying 1 - 11 of 11 reviews