A Gargoyle's Guide to Murder: An Accidental Alchemist Mystery

An Accidental Alchemist Mystery #9

by Gigi Pandian

A vanished body. A deadly bookshop. A country house party full of suspects. Can a living gargoyle and an alchemist decipher the clues before poisoned pages claim another victim?

Dorian Robert-Houdin is used to living his life in the shadows, his existence only known to a few trusted friends. When a dangerous book from his past resurfaces, he follows his closest confidante, alchemist Zoe Faust, from Oregon to England to investigate.

Before he can examine the magical book, Dorian witnesses a murder amidst the foggy lanes of Oxford. But when he takes Zoe to the scene, there’s no body—and no evidence a crime has taken place. Using his unique skills as a gargoyle, Dorian sets out to solve the baffling crime nobody else believes occurred.

When Dorian and Zoe discover a dead man in a bookshop filled with arsenic-laced books, the victim isn’t a stranger—he’s connected to the vanishing crime scene. The trail leads to a country house party where a group of bibliophile suspects have gathered and a storm is brewing. Could the killer be the mercurial Agatha Christie scholar? The prickly literature professor? The secretive rare books expert? With an unscrupulous book thief lurking, can sleuths Dorian and Zoe unmask a murderer before the next page brings them to a perilous end?

Perfect for fans of the quirky charm and found family of Only Murders in the Building and books by Ellery Adams and Travis Baldree. Don't miss the new novel in the award-winning cozy fantasy mystery series from USA Today bestselling author Gigi Pandian!

Genres: Mystery, Fantasy, Paranormal, Cozy Mystery, Fiction, Cozy, Magic

322 pages, Kindle Edition

Published October 7, 2025

About the author

Gigi Pandian is a USA Today bestselling and Agatha Award-winning mystery author, breast cancer survivor, and accidental almost-vegan. She's the child of professors from New Mexico and the southern tip of India, and spent her childhood traveling around the world on their research trips. She now lives in the San Francisco Bay Area with her husband and a gargoyle who watches over the garden.


She writes the Jaya Jones Treasure Hunt mystery series, the Accidental Alchemist mysteries, and the Secret Staircase Mysteries.


Her debut novel was awarded a Malice Domestic Grant and named a Best of 2012 Debut by Suspense Magazine, her mysteries have been awarded the Agatha, Rose, Lefty, and Derringer awards, and been short-listed for the Edgar.

Reviews

[Grandma Susan · Rating 4 out of 5]

This story grew on me and I ended up loving it. Dorian is a living gargoyle. His best friend is Zoe, an alchemist. Max, Zoe’s fiancée gets involved in the investigation as well. There is a murder. The suspense was top notch. Witty banter. Dry humor. Several times I laughed out loud. I do plan to read the previous books in the series. I definitely recommend if you’re looking for a whimsical suspense with unusual characters.

I was blessed with an ARC. The opinions expressed are my own and unbiased.

[Rebecca · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thanks so much to NetGalley for the free Kindle book. My review is voluntarily given, and my opinions are my own.

As much as I love reading books in order, there was no way I could finish reading all the books before publication date, so I went from the first book to the ninth book. Technically, I could read them all, but I had other books that I am also reading at the same time. Anyway, my point is that this is a stand-alone book. Other than a few character developments (I think it helped they were on vacation and didn't see most of the people in the first book), I didn't get much as far as spoilers. One of my biggest pet peeves is when mystery writers include the names of the killers from previous books for no reason. There's nothing like that here, thankfully.

I love this series so much. Agatha Christie fans will absolutely adore this book, with all the references to her books and life.

This is completely clean for those looking for the smut level. I don't even recall them kissing (maybe holding hands but don't remember?), and they are engaged at this point.

Definitely would recommend this.

[wanderingmango · Rating 4 out of 5]

A delightful cozy mystery that stands perfectly on its own. Featuring a sentient gargoyle who loves gourmet cooking and solving crimes, this book offers a charming and unique protagonist in Dorian . The mystery is engaging and will keep you turning pages without ever feeling too dark, making it a perfect read for fans of the genre .

Agatha Christie fans will adore the numerous references to her books and life. This is a completely clean read, focusing on charm and intrigue over romance. A warm, whimsical blend of fantasy and mystery with just the right amount of heart .

Highly recommended.
Thank you Victory Editing & NetGalley for the eARC!

[Jess A. · Rating 4 out of 5]

When I requested this ARC from Netgalley, I had no idea that it was book NINE in a series! I was a little worried I wouldn't be able to follow along, but it was a really fun read, and it introduced me to a new must-read series! (I already have books 1 and 2 in queue now!)

There were twists and turns I wasn't expecting, but it was still cozy and cute and quaint and fun. I mean, there's a gargoyle who is a gourmet chef, a poisoned book of backwards alchemy, a 300+ year old female protagonist engaged to a 40yo man, all set in a London and Oxford backdrop with some silly side characters and also some more about a sleeping gargoyle who loves wine?!😂

Even if you haven't read the first 8 of the series, this is well worth a read, but now I'm pumped to see where Zoe, Dorian, Max, and all their friends stories began :)

[Holden Dingus · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another excellent installment of that Accidental Alchemist series. We meet new friends and old enemies. Zoe is racing to find out what has happened to Non Degenera Alchemia, the book of backwards alchemy that has already caused so much pain in the world. Will it cause more before she finds it? Or will Zoe Faust find an ingenious way to transform the situation before a murderer gets away?

[Paula · Rating 5 out of 5]

After reading book one in 2021, my Goodreads review was concise: "I loved everything about this story. I now want my very own French gargoyle chef." Nine books in, my feelings about The Accidental Alchemist Mysteries have grown even stronger. This time, Zoe, Max, and Dorian are in England facing new perils, including a poisoned book.

Thanks to NetGalley + Gargoyle Girl Productions for the ARC.

[Daniel · Rating 5 out of 5]

This review originally published in Looking For a Good Book. Rated 4.5 of 5

Oh, it is so nice to have another Accidental Alchemist mystery book!

Zoe Faust is a very old alchemist. Very old. Like 300 years old. Though she doesn’t look much older than 30. She currently lives in Oregon with Dorian Robert-Houdin – a gargoyle who was brought to ‘life’ by some backward alchemy. Now he is an alchemist himself, though his appearance – still a stone gargoyle – makes it difficult for him to spend any time outdoors (if he’s not adorning a rooftop).

Now, Zoe is in England trying to track down a rare book of backwards alchemy which might help Dorian. Surprising Zoe is Dorian, who shipped himself in a crate in order to help in the search.

The book in question is one that Zoe once had in her possession, centuries ago. Now, the book is devolving and is possibly itself poison – people who’ve touched the book have small, but serious calamities befall them.

Sticking to the shadows as he often does, Dorian believes he’s witness a murder but Zoe and her mystery solving friend and partner, Max, aren’t convinced he saw what he thinks he saw. But when the three visit an old, falling down, countryside manor that houses an incredible old library, a woman goes missing and another guest is nearly killed. Could it all be because of this book of reverse alchemy that no one has even thought about for centuries?

I’m typically not a fan of cozy mysteries, but there are a few titles/authors that I enjoy, and Gigi Pandian is one of those authors. I was about to say that this is my favorite series of hers, but upon reflection I’m not sure I can say which of her different series is a favorite – they’re all really great.

Part of what makes this book and series so fun is the premise – a 300 year old alchemist and gargoyle come to life! Part of it is the supernatural aspect which, despite the premise, is quite subtle. It never feels like the most important part of any story – which I realize is a bit ironic given that this story is about a poisoned book. It just doesn’t overwhelm the senses. The characters are what’s most important.

And the characters here (and in Pandian’s other books) are expertly drawn. They seem like real people making real discoveries and real mistakes. Even the living stone gargoyle has a distinct voice making him ‘real’ to the readers.

For me, the mysteries are secondary to hanging out with these characters, but Pandian does create a solid mystery with a few hints and a few red herrings along the way. Really, this is everything you could ask for in a cozy mystery and I’d encourage anyone who likes mysteries, to pick up this book (or at least this series).

So why not five stars? This is a very good read. Perfect for the beach or the cabin or anywhere you like to relax and read. But for me, a five star book is one that is exceptional, not just very good. This book is fun and comforting, but not one that gets me so excited that I can’t wait to read more and more and more. But it is part of a series that I will always be on the lookout for.

Looking for a good book? One of the best cozy mystery series around, The Accidental Alchemist, has a new book – A Gargoyle’s Guide to Murder by Gigi Pandian – and you should definitely give it a read.
I received a digital copy of this book from the publisher, through Netgalley, in exchange for an honest review.

[M the avid reader · Rating 5 out of 5]

Poisonous books and more mysteries across the pond 

For this installment in the Accidental Alchemist series, Zoe is in the UK with Max and Dorian; the rest of her 'Scooby gang' are back in Portland Oregon with some getting a mention here but otherwise it's these three mains (Dorian is a main character in his not so humble opinion I'm sure) with a bunch of new secondary characters taking part in the mystery and drama.  I always recommend this series be read in order in part for the plot threads that carry thru several or all of the books, to track the progress and changes in characters lives, but also because this series is just fun even if you don't solve the mysteries before the big reveals happen.  I never solve them and might see a plot  twist coming ahead of time but miss a bunch more yet am still surprised and delighted by how it all unfolds.  The best part of the series is knowing so many books are already published with at least one more being written for a 2026 release; the downside is having to wait for the next one when you've read them all although rereading them is something I like to do when time permits. 
Cliffhanger style chapter endings encourage the reader to not put the book down just yet and to read just one more chapter to see what happens next.  This one like the others in the series, is a fun read but also educational as author Gigi Pandian peppers with the story with information from her extensive research without going too deep in the weeds about any topic so it's fascinating but absent too much minutiae; I learn something new in these books while also being entertained.  Like the other books, a recipe with some variations is printed at the back of the book that relates to the story, if you like to cook or bake and try out new recipes.
I love hanging out with Zoe and her Scooby gang, watching their antics, trying and failing to solve the mysteries before they do while falling for at least some of the misdirection and misleading suspicion placed on suspects to the crimes.  This is not my favorite book in the series although I did enjoy it and devoured it quickly in a few extended reading sessions; I missed some of the secondary characters from the Portland gang and Dorian's personality is not always appealing to me but he gets loads of time on the page here, for better or worse.  I did like the advancement in the overarching plot of the series and am curious to see how that progresses in the next book(s) as well as seeing what topics will be covered in it (as poisonous books are here).
If you want some supernatural/paranormal in your mystery reading give this book and the rest of the series a shot.  It's easy reading with a good twisty mystery and plenty of lovable memorable characters.  Gigi Pandian's other series are worth a read as well for entertaining storylines that engage your brain along the way.

[Annie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Originally posted on my blog Nonstop Reader.

A Gargoyle's Guide to Murder is the ninth (!!) fantasy mystery in the series by Gigi Pandian. Released 10th Oct 2025, it's 320 pages and is available in paperback, audio, and ebook formats. It's worth noting that the ebook format has a handy interactive table of contents as well as interactive links and references throughout.

This series features an immortal alchemist (Zoe) + sidekick (a gargoyle Watson to Zoe's Holmes) as well as a rotating ensemble cast. It's cute and undemanding with a fair bit of banter and, Lord Love a Duck, a ton of food talk (vegan proselytizing). For readers who've stuck around since the beginning, it won't be a surprise (and for readers who gave up after the first *very* zealous book in the series, it's developed very well and you might want to give it another try).

It's an easy read, and the author has found her footing as far as pacing goes. There is a bonus vegan recipe at the end of the books, for sticky toffee muffins, and, as always, there's quite a lot of food talk throughout. Not unexpected, when half the dynamic duo is a gargoyle chef.

Unlike the other books which are set in the Pacific Northwest, this one takes place in the UK, so much of the cuisine featured is classic English fare.

There's not an overwhelming amount of continuity in the series, and this adventure is self contained, so it would be a good point to jump in and sample the series, with the understanding that the returning characters do have developed backstories, and reading them out of order will give some minor spoilers. Also, the first couple books in the series were much heavier handed (with some truly questionable character motivations and vegan zealotry), so reading this book first will probably be a good idea.

Four stars. Light culinary fantasy mystery. It would be a good choice for a buddy read, or for true die-hard fans of culinary mysteries. (Plus the French gargoyle chef sidekick).

Disclosure: I received an ARC at no cost from the author/publisher for review purposes.

[Lisa · Rating 5 out of 5]

I appreciated receiving an ARC. Thanks.

If the reader is jumping into the Accidental Alchemist mysteries this late in the series, this novel is a nice introduction to Dorian Robert-Houdin, a grotesque/gargoyle brought to life by backwards alchemy but who is now an alchemist himself. He lives in the shadows, where he sleuths to his heart's content...when he's not cooking, of course. This novel is set entirely overseas (England rather than Oregon), so he's not doing his usual baking gig for the tea shop down the street, but in a culinary turn of events, he gets to try some UK cuisine, which he didn't get a chance to when he lived in France.

As usual, Pandian does a wonderful job of catching a new reader up to the series by casually inserting character background without making a series regular reader feel like skipping over excess information. Zoe Faust, the 300+-year-old alchemist protagonist, is on a side quest to retrieve “Non Degenera Alchemia,” Dorian's backward alchemy book that must be brought under her protective watch before it corrupts others. As it turns out, the book has devolved significantly since it was last in Zoe's possession, and it has poisoned several people in its travels: a librarian has lost a finger, others are adversely impacted by papercuts and its sinister presence in their lives, and it is believed (by Zoe and the gang, not necessarily the police) to be the cause of death for another man. Dorian insists he witnessed a murder in an unused dormitory, and Zoe and Max are skeptical (when all is said and done, they're all correct). The trio takes a field trip to a partially decrepit manor in the English countryside which houses a fabulous library, but again, there is a woman missing under suspicious circumstances and an attempt on the life of another guest keeps the trio on their toes.

In the end, the Dorian, Zoe, and Max solve the mysteries, Zoe destroys the book in an epic showdown, and all the loose ends are tied up. No more spoilers, just read it yourself. We don't see Max, Zoe, and Dorian hit landfall in Oregon, though, so we'll see where the next book in the series starts out.

-Not sure why I thought this would be a novella, à la 4.5/The Lost Gargoyle of Paris. It being a full novel was a pleasant surprise.

-Only a brief mention of Zoe and Dorian's teenager friends back in Oregon, which is just right. The teenagers' skills are often integral to the speed Dorian and Zoe reach their conclusions, but Z&D are the OG sleuths, and the teenagers' absence allows Max a weightier role (he was a detective, after all).

-Interesting that the tag line proposes this will appeal to OMITB fans. I hadn't made that comparison, but I can see how the amateur but solid sleuthing skills could be comparable, and certainly the banter. Wouldn't this make a great TV series, especially with the quality of special effects that are available these days?

-I think Dorian would take umbrage at being called whimsical as another review describes him, but...

-I rather expected Dorian to want to hit the Rylands' library, but the novel takes places around Oxford, so the Bodleian Libraries feature here. Pandian's descriptions clearly show she's walked the halls and not just browsed the web sites.

-ARC, bibliophilia, cozy, gargoyle, mystery, tea, alchemy

[S.J. Higbee · Rating 5 out of 5]

Interestingly, this book takes the story from the States and over to England, specifically Oxford, in search of a book that has a lot of meaning for both Zoe and Dorian. Firstly, I was very impressed with the vividness of the setting – Pandian manages to give us a lively portrayal of the university town, right down to the suitably rainy weather. I also appreciated the varied character cast of potential suspects and victims.

In any cosy mystery, there is a balance between the darkness of the crime and the tone of the murder – it cannot be too grisly, or where is the cosiness? Then again, the crime involves the taking of another’s life. It is inappropriate to be too amusing about the whole business – unless there is a satirical slant, or strong political point to be made. Pandian strikes the right note – the reader is never allowed to forget that someone’s life has been forfeit. And as a bonus, I was reintroduced to dear Dorian, the gargoyle assistant to Zoe. I’d forgotten what a delight he is.

Dorian’s efforts at helping, comments on cooking and the sheer effort involved in ensuring his presence provides a series of amusing interludes that lightened the tone and gave this murder mystery a nicely quirky feel. As for the murder mystery itself – Pandian plays up to the Agatha Christie vibe by even providing a weekend at a country house. Though this being Zoe and Dorian – it doesn’t exactly play out as I’d expected.

There are a variety of suspects and possible victims and while I had considered the antagonist – I’d then discounted them, again. Overall, this is an enjoyable, well-crafted murder mystery featuring an entertaining cast and providing a satisfying denouement. I just need to go back and read the other books in this engaging series. While I obtained an arc of A Gargoyle’s Guide to Murder from the publishers via Netgalley, the opinions I have expressed are unbiased and my own.
9/10

[Stephanie Jaeger-Stanley · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another great Accidental Alchemist adventure from Gigi Pandian! This time around Zoe and Max head to England for a quick holiday but quickly discover they are not alone. . . Dorian has stowed away in a shipping container yet again! With the extended cast of characters left behind in Portland, we get to learn more about Zoe and Max and enjoy their interactions as a couple. We finally get to read Dorian’s book, “A Gargoyle’s Guide to Murder” and see how his “little gray cells” allow him to piece together the details of the crime in order to help solve the mystery. I’d be remiss if I didn’t mention the tantalizing meals cooked by Dorian and the recipe provided at the end of the book. Don’t read on an empty stomach!

Not only do you get the usual plot twists and turns throughout the story, but you also get to nose around Oxford, visit the Bodleian Library, and dive into rare and poisoned books. In an homage to the Golden Age of mystery writing, Pandian includes a delightful Agatha Christie style locked room murder in a country mansion.

I have been reading Gigi’s books since the first Jaya Jones Treasure Hunt, Secret Staircase Mystery, and now the Accidental Alchemist series, and I enjoy them all. Her writing style and plot development have matured over the years, and she definitely honors the genre that inspired her to write. This volume in the series really checked all the boxes for me as a cozy mystery reader. I highly recommend it to fans and new readers even if you haven’t read the earlier books. Many thanks to Gargoyle Girl Productions for the Advanced Reader Copy. I eagerly await the next installment in the series!

[Katreader · Rating 5 out of 5]

A GARGOYLE'S GUIDE TO MURDER by Gigi Pandian
The Ninth Accidental Alchemist Mystery

What should be a quick stop to check on a book before embarking on a European vacation turns out to be anything but. When Zoe Faust finds Non Degenera Alchemia missing from the British Library she's only mildly concerned. The book's ties to Notre Dame have been severed so it should no longer pose a danger. Still, when the brusque librarian declares it a poisoned book, Zoe tracks it down to Oxford. There she finds the book decaying, but it's not just a book being ravaged by time. Something else is afoot, as Dorian would say. In fact, after both Dorian, the living gargoyle, and Max Liu, her fiancé, arrive they find a man murdered, facedown in that very tome. Combined with the murder Dorian saw, although there was no evidence of a crime, stolen books, and a spooky night at a country manor house party, everything leads back to that book of backward alchemy. Will Zoe, Max, and Dorian be able to get to the heart of the matter before someone else dies?

Having a gargoyle best friend tagging along on a romantic trip for a newly engaged couple is not exactly what Zoe envisioned, but it certainly worked out for the best. I absolutely love Dorian and he is at his finest in this ninth Accidental Alchemist Mystery. I enjoy the alternate chapters showing the current book he's writing; in this case A Gargoyle's Guide to Murder. Dorian gives readers facts and tips about impossible crimes, gargoyles, and much more, including his thoughts to the current mystery. Dorian is witty, clever, and a darn fine cook. I wish he could make me a meal, or at least some snacks.

Apart from Dorian, I really appreciate how Zoe and Max work together. I also loved Barney and enjoyed disliking Barnabas. It was a complex mystery made more complicated by backward alchemy. I found Non Degenera Alchemia absolutely fascinating. Not just the book itself and what it was becoming, but what it was doing as it died.

Intricate plotting, charming characters, and an incredible sense of place make A GARGOYLE'S GUIDE TO MURDER a delightful mystery that's both thrilling, funny, and ultimately heartwarming.

[Christy · Rating 5 out of 5]

I've yet to meet a Gigi Pandian book that I didn't completely love! A Gargoyle's Guide to Murder is absolutely wonderful! First off, can we just appreciate that name for a bit? Think A Good Girl's Guide to Murder - say both names out loud if you don't get it yet. I cracked up the first time I saw the title! Anyway...

I love these characters! Not only are the main characters always well-written, but the side characters in this book are as well. I really got attached to Barney! As is usually the case, Dorian (the living gargoyle) steals the show. Zoe is supposed to be making a quick trip, without Dorian, to England to make sure the backward alchemy book is safely stored away and no one can get their hands on it. However, he ships himself to her because of course he would. He witnesses a murder, sneaks around when and where Zoe and her fiance can't, cooks, etc.

I loved the multiple settings and the closed circle mystery that takes place at a country manor. I learned the difference between a locked room mystery and closed circle mystery thanks to Dorian's guide! There are many twists and turns in this mystery that make it extremely fun! I enjoyed following the clues and solving the mystery along with the characters.

All in all, A Gargoyle's Guide to Murder is a delightful, charming, humorous mystery that will keep you guessing! I highly recommend it!

I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.

[Sunny · Rating 5 out of 5]

A PERFECTLY WRITTEN BOOK TO ADD TO "THE ACCIDENTAL ALCHEMIST MYSTERIES SERIES"
I Loved this book. The lovable Dorian (the gargoyle) is a brave, hilarious, and fabulous chef, the best friend anyone could ever wish for, and takes center stage in this latest adventure. There are wonderful little tidbits throughout like a couple's travel journal that sparks the imagination. There are funny moments and poignant moments in this wonderful, clean, fast paced, cozy mystery. Of course, the best part is that you'll never figure it out and will very surprised and satisfied with the ending
There is enough back story woven throughout that it could be read as a stand alone, but this is one of my favorite series and I have loved getting to know the characters and their stories over the last 8 books. So If you start with this one, I know that you will want to go back and start with book #1. I did that with another of her series where I picked a book in the middle of the series unknowingly and then after I read that one, I had to go back and start at the beginning.
Thank you to the publisher for this ARC copy. I promise, this is a candid, and honest review right from the heart. I highly recommend getting this book in your favorite reading or listening style. A note to audio readers, her narrator for this series, Julia Motyka is absolutely perfect for this "first person" narration, and a true delight to listen to. Enjoy!

[Nikki Brooks · Rating 4 out of 5]

Take a cosy murder mystery, add in some magical hijinks, a mini gargoyle who thinks he's Sherlock Holmes and a witch who has come to terms with her immortality.

Zoe has arrived in Oxford in advance of her long awaited holiday with Max. She just needs to find and rescue her buddy Dorian, the eponymous gargoyle, who has once again got himself in a pickle looking for his book.

Dorian manages to land himself in a bit of a "Rear Window! situation and thinks he's witnessed a murder but on further investigation they find no body, no blood, no clues! On the arrival of Max, former detective and newly minted tea shop owner, they delve further into the mystery and soon uncover a plethora of lies, misdirection and magical shenanigans!

This is a series that really needs to be read in order as the overarching story threads weave through the series and the characters have evolved quite a bit from the first book. I'm happy to report I didn't guess the big bad at all and I was happy when all the threads came together and all was revealed.

There are some recipes at the back of the book which I'm definitely going to try at some point or another. There are some wonderful secondary characters added to the cast and I'm hoping they get to pop up in later books.

Poisonous books were a new revelation to me and I'm now on a deep dive to find out all I can about these ingenious tomes!

[Book Night Reviews · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was the ninth book in An Accidental Alchemist series but I had no idea of it when I started this book...

I was worried that it would be difficult to catch up with the story, but I was very wrong!

The story is set in England where Zoe Faust, the accidental alchemist arrives with her fiance, Max Liu and her bestfriend, Dorian, a gargoyle!

Dorian, while travelling at night, claims that he had seen a murder unfolding before his eyes. Since he was a gargoyle, he required Zoe's help. But Zoe is surprised when she finds no bodies. Soon another murder happens and the trio knows they have to solve this case fast.

I've always been afraid of Gargoyles but Dorian changed my view. He is clever, kind hearted, and his culinary skills are so good. Add to that this gargoyle likes to solve murders! He is an Agatha Christie fan and an arm chair detective who is always ready to solve mysteries.

The trio of Zoe, Dorian and Max was an entertaining mix of an alchemist, gargoyle, and an ex-detective. It was interesting to see how well the abilities of all three of them was instrumental in solving this case.

With a mix of fantasy and mystery and set in a world of books, this story was a cozy mystery that is suspenseful and entertaining to read!

[Rachael Hamilton · Rating 5 out of 5]

Though this is the 9th in the series, I do feel Gigi Pandian has a winner with these characters. I loved diving back into another novel with Dorian, Zoe and Max. I always get a small sense of a Scooby Gang as we make our way through these cozy murder mysteries. I love them and find them to be a wonderful series to constantly pick up.

Zoe and Dorian are in Oxford looking for the backwards alchemy book which brought Dorian to life. However, while in the city, Dorian feels he sees someone get murdered in the room of a college dorm. Zoe didn't see it, but she follows Dorian to the scene and there's no body and there doesn't seem to be any sign of a crime. However a few days later, the body of the potential killer also pops up and now the group is following the trail to a book related house party giving it a very "locked door mystery" sort of vibe.

I do like that most of the books in this series can stand on their own and you do not have to read all of them in order to understand what is going on. I also enjoyed the Agatha Christie references and the sprinkling in of alchemy and poison books. Always such a pleasure to read these books. Even her other works are fantastic as well though maybe not as good as this series.

[The Mystery Reader · Rating 3 out of 5]

I was immediately intrigued by the premise of A Gargoyle's Guide to Murder by Gigi Pandian. The concept of this series is genuinely unique, and I was happy to get my hands on an early copy of this one. The idea of a living gargoyle, Dorian Robert-Houdin, teaming up with his alchemist confidante, Zoe Faust, to solve crimes is certainly original. I have read so many mysteries with wacky sidekicks, but a gargoyle was a first!

In this ninth book, Dorian and Zoe travel from Oregon to England to investigate a dangerous, magical book from Dorian's past. Things get complicated when Dorian witnesses a murder near Oxford, but when they return to the scene, the body and all evidence are gone. The trail eventually leads them to a country house party filled with suspects: a mercurial Agatha Christie scholar, a prickly literature professor, and a secretive rare books expert.

I loved the setting in this book. It has a fantastic, cozy atmosphere, and Pandian's writing is charming. The characters and the English backdrop are great, and the central mystery involving the vanished body and the deadly, arsenic-laced bookshop was fun. I read this as a standalone and followed the plot just fine, but I would definitely read more in the series to see where Dorian and Zoe go next.

[Rachel · Rating 4 out of 5]

*I received a free ARC from the publisher through NetGalley in exchange for my honest review*

One of my favorite things about this series is that you do not have to have read all of the books to enjoy any one of them. I think I started with the fourth book and then went back to the first and then read this (the 9th) and I do not feel like I could not follow what was going on. The author does a great job of referring to events from previous stories (without retelling the entire plot of those books) that the reader may find helpful to know about. The mystery here was another great one and I loved following along as Zoe, Dorian, and Max put all the clues together to solve not only a murder but the mysterious illness infecting everyone who came in contact with the alchemy book at the center of the story. It was also wonderful to see how Zoe and Max's relationship has continued to grow over the books (I will be going back and reading all the books I have not yet read). Moving the story to Oxford also added some fun to the story and added the extra obstacle as Zoe and Max did not really have any connections there to help them out.

[Lisa Noble · Rating 4 out of 5]

This 9th episode in Gigi Pandian's Accidental Alchemist has all the elements that we've come to rely on in the series. Zoe, the alchemist of the title is her usual logical self, using her gifts with plants to help those around her, and trying her best to keep an eye on Dorian, her accidental gargoyle sidekick. What's a lot of fun about this series as it continues, is that Dorian has evolved into a co-narrator. His pedantic observations on the mystery as if unfolds are my favourite thing about the story. In this installment, we find Zoe, Dorian and Max in the UK, trying to track down the book of backwards alchemy that plays a key role in Dorian's past. Naturally, a murder conveniently occurs for them to investigate, including a weekend at a country estate. This is very Agatha Christie, deliberately, and if pays lovely tribute to that style and era of mystery.

Having read earlier installments in the series would be helpful, and give the reader more context for the back story, but is not necessary.
3.5 stars rounded up to 4. Thanks to NetGalley and Gargoyle girl productions for the e-arc.

[Patricia · Rating 4 out of 5]

Gigi Pandian’s books just keep getting better!

I have been a fan of the Accidental Alchemist series for years so was thrilled to get an early copy of this one. I was not disappointed. My favorite characters are back – Zoe, Max, and of course Dorian! This time, they are in London checking up on Non Degenera Alchemica, the horrible backwards alchemy book that nearly killed Dorian in a previous book.

As Zoe and Co. get more and more involved with the current iteration of the book, the reader is treated to some wonderful storytelling. I also appreciated the added “country house murder” trope part way through the book, which added a comical element to the story given Dorian’s project of writing a handbook on investigating murder. And the surprise twist at the end? Wonderful!

Overall, this is a solid mystery – well-plotted and paced with good descriptive narrative. I do recommend reading the previous books in the series before you open this one, but this could be a stand-alone read and a nice introduction to the series.

[Mahua Cavanagh · Rating 5 out of 5]

Some stories start to lose their luster as the series gets past the third or fourth book. This is NOT one of them! The Accidental Alchemist series just keeps getting better and better.

In A Gargoyle's Guide to Murder, Dorian, Zoe, and Max travel to Oxford for their latest adventure. (There's cute shout out to Deborah Harkness - IYKYK.) Gigi Pandian does an excellent job of describing the setting. You feel as though you're being walked through Oxford, not just seeing it. The reader fully experiences the town.

The story itself continues the greater, alchemy story arc with some twists and turns. There's some locked room mystery aspects. I wouldn't say there are any unreliable characters, but there is an element of perception versus reality that gives the book extra oomph.

I really enjoyed the book and hope there will be more in this series.

Thank you to Net Galley and Gigi Pandian for this ARC and the opportunity to give an honest review.

[M Steinbrink · Rating 5 out of 5]

A Gargoyle’s Guide to Murder is the 9th Accidental Alchemist mystery by Gigi Pandian. It is always fun to read about Zoe, Max and Dorian. This time they are on a trip to England and what an enjoyable trip it was. This mystery was definitely inspired by Agatha Christie and it was a very lovely homage to her style while adding some modern and interesting twists. Dorian, as usual, is so much fun and I just love reading about that gargoyle! Dorian, Zoe and Max make a great team and really work well together to figure out both a murder and an alchemy mystery. There were a lot of things going on in this book, but Ms. Pandian has such a smooth, enjoyable writing style that I never felt overwhelmed by all the action. I just enjoyed going along for the ride. I can’t wait to see what’s in store for these wonderful characters next.

Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for allowing me to read this book. All opinions are my own.

[Jan · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was waiting for this and even preordered the audio for me to keep! I love the fun of this series as much as the personal interactions, the interpersonal relationships, and joining in on solving the crimes. Poisoned by a book! Who else would even conjur up such a plot!?!
I requested and received a temporary uncorrected digital galley from Gargoyle Girl Productions via NetGalley. *****review #bookbub #goodreads #librarything #thestorygraph #
#AGargoylesGuidetoMurder by @gigipandian #AccidentalAlchemistMysteriesBk9 @ibpalovesindies
#GargoyleGirlProductions #magic #alchemy #gargoyles #urbanfantasy #poison #investigation #FUN
#cozymystery #cozymysteryseries #cozyfantasy #cozyfantasybooks #cozymysterybooks #murder #gargoylesofinstagram #accidentalalchemist #witty #humor #relationships #pseudocontemporary

[Jeanne · Rating 5 out of 5]

A Gargoyle's Guide to Murder is book #9 in the Accidental Alchemist Mysteries series by Gigi Pandian.

I had not read the earlier ones and I was still able to enjoy this book. Alchemist Zoe Faust travels to England with a quick side trip to recover a book before starting a romantic holiday, but the book is no longer there because it was considered “poisoned.” When there’s a murder, the holiday is on hold. There are plenty of suspects for Dorian, Zoe, and Max to investigate. The characters are interesting and the mystery kept me guessing until the end. I plan to go back and start at the beginning of the series to catch up before the next book is released.

Thank you to the author, Gargoyle Girl Productions, and NetGalley for the Advanced Reader Copy (ARC) copy of this book and I am voluntarily leaving an honest review.

[Vickie · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have been a fan of Gigi Pandian since reading Artifact, the first book in the wonderful Jaya Jones mystery series. I have read that one in sequence. I have not read Accidental Alchemist series in order and it kind of set me off-kilter a bit. I was excited to read it, so I did as soon as it appeared on my Kindle from my pre-order [this is how much I like Gigi Pandian...I rarely pre-order except for favorite authors], but there were things happening between the last book in the series I read and this one...so a bit out of catching up.
All that said, it didn't diminish my enjoyment of the mystery and the story. I love the characters, especially Dorian the Gargoyle. He's a hoot to watch in action. He reminds me of Hercule Poirot in living stone form. Driven, a bit snobby, self-centered but cares for Zoe.
I can definitely recommend this book, series and author.

[Penny · Rating 4 out of 5]

It has been some time since I’d read a book in this series, so I was excited to get caught up with Max, Zoe, and Dorian. They are in London on a hunt for Dorian’s old book, and Dorian sees a murder. What follows is a case with poison, old books, libraries, and chivalry. When I had checked to see how long it had been since I’d read this series, it had been three books, but I had no problem at all with not having read them. I really missed Dorian’s snark, Zoe’s healing, and Max’s steadfastness. This is a wonderful addition to the series: well-written, intriguing, and hard-to-guess whodunit. Fans are sure to be pleased. Recommend. I was provided a complimentary copy which I voluntarily reviewed.

[Mac Daly · Rating 5 out of 5]

Solving a mystery is complicated when you're over 300 years old and have trouble functioning in the dark. It gets even more complicated when your sidekick (or maybe it's you who is the sidekick) is a living gargoyle. Still, when Zoe and her partner Dorian (he's the gargoyole) travel to Engliand to recover a book of backwards alchemy, that's just what they need to do. When the book goes missing and Dorian is convinced he's seen a murder, the two friends have to search for clues in the British Library, an ecletic bookstore and a dilapidated mansion to save their new freinds from the poisonous book.

It's a non-stop adventure full of quirky characters, intriguing places and one or two romantic entanglements.

[Tiahne Taylor · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this one! I was a bit worried that, being book nine in the series, I’d be completely lost — but it all made perfect sense.

There were twists and turns I didn’t see coming, yet it still managed to feel cozy, cute, and a little bit quirky in the best way. I mean, a gargoyle who’s a gourmet chef, a poisoned book of backwards alchemy, a 300-year-old heroine engaged to a 40-year-old man — all set between London and Oxford with a cast of charmingly silly side characters and a wine-loving, sleeping gargoyle? It’s delightfully bizarre in all the right ways.
Even if you haven’t read the first eight books, this one is absolutely worth picking up.

Thank you to Net Galley for an ARC.