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Accidental Alchemist Mystery #10
The Alchemist of All Hallows Eve
An eternally young alchemist. A gargoyle who fancies himself Poirot. A Murder House for sale the week before Halloween.
Zoe Faust has run from her past for centuries. She didn't plan on settling down. She didn't plan on falling for a mortal man. She certainly didn't plan on the gargoyle.
Now Zoe, her fiancé, and her French chef gargoyle best friend Dorian have found an enchanting home with a hidden cottage for Dorian. It’s perfect for their little family. Except for one thing. Forty years ago, the night before Halloween, a woman was murdered in their dream house. Or was she?
When an enigmatic stranger arrives and insists that a mythological Irish witch holds the secret to the unsolved crime, Halloween turns deadly once more. Refusing to let Zoe lose the home she's waited centuries for, Dorian the gargoyle sets out to crack the case.
Can an alchemist, a gargoyle, and a teashop-owning detective solve two Halloween murders before an innocent man takes the fall and their perfect home slips away?
The Alchemist of All Hallows Eve is the whimsical tenth book in USA Today bestselling author Gigi Pandian's Anthony Award-winning Accidental Alchemist mystery series. If you love cozy fantasy, Agatha Christie-style whodunits, and found family, you'll adore this charming Halloween mystery, complete with Irish fortune-telling recipes.
Zoe Faust has run from her past for centuries. She didn't plan on settling down. She didn't plan on falling for a mortal man. She certainly didn't plan on the gargoyle.
Now Zoe, her fiancé, and her French chef gargoyle best friend Dorian have found an enchanting home with a hidden cottage for Dorian. It’s perfect for their little family. Except for one thing. Forty years ago, the night before Halloween, a woman was murdered in their dream house. Or was she?
When an enigmatic stranger arrives and insists that a mythological Irish witch holds the secret to the unsolved crime, Halloween turns deadly once more. Refusing to let Zoe lose the home she's waited centuries for, Dorian the gargoyle sets out to crack the case.
Can an alchemist, a gargoyle, and a teashop-owning detective solve two Halloween murders before an innocent man takes the fall and their perfect home slips away?
The Alchemist of All Hallows Eve is the whimsical tenth book in USA Today bestselling author Gigi Pandian's Anthony Award-winning Accidental Alchemist mystery series. If you love cozy fantasy, Agatha Christie-style whodunits, and found family, you'll adore this charming Halloween mystery, complete with Irish fortune-telling recipes.
292 pages, Paperback
Published September 8, 2026
About the author
Gigi Pandian
51 books1,687 followersGigi Pandian is a USA Today bestselling mystery author, locked-room mystery enthusiast, and fan of exploring ruined castles in the rain. She’s won Agatha, Anthony, Lefty, and Derringer Awards, and been a finalist for the Edgar Award. She writes the Accidental Alchemist Mysteries (humorous cozy fantasy mysteries), the Secret Staircase Mysteries (locked-room mysteries called “wildly entertaining” by The New York Times), and the Jaya Jones Treasure Hunt Mysteries (lighthearted adventures steeped in history). Gigi lives in the San Francisco Bay Area with her husband and a gargoyle who watches over the backyard garden.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 52 reviews
September 20, 2026
I have missed Dorian, Zoe and Max, so I was really looking forward to this book — and it definitely didn’t disappoint!
I absolutely loved all the Irish folklore characters, as they brought back some really good memories for me.
Is there really a dead body in the house Zoe and Max want to buy, or is it just a rumour? Was there actually a witch, or is that another rumour?
Halloween is definitely a dangerous time if you’re thinking about buying a new home! 😂 All the regular characters are back, and it was great to hear more about Brixton and his friends too.
It’s a fantastic mystery that keeps you guessing right until the end. I loved being back with these characters and thoroughly enjoyed the story.
I absolutely loved all the Irish folklore characters, as they brought back some really good memories for me.
Is there really a dead body in the house Zoe and Max want to buy, or is it just a rumour? Was there actually a witch, or is that another rumour?
Halloween is definitely a dangerous time if you’re thinking about buying a new home! 😂 All the regular characters are back, and it was great to hear more about Brixton and his friends too.
It’s a fantastic mystery that keeps you guessing right until the end. I loved being back with these characters and thoroughly enjoyed the story.
July 12, 2026
Thank you to NetGalley for this eARC.
3.5 stars/5
This caught my eye because I’d just read The Knight and the Moth and I was lusting after another Bartholomew!
I haven’t read any mystery books for a while and I think this was an excellent reintroduction. Although this is the tenth book in a series, I think you can come to it as a newcomer and still enjoy it - as I did. The characters were well written and previous events were hinted at just enough that I didn’t feel like I’d missed out but also wasn’t going to spoil my enjoyment of the other books when I pick them up. I also enjoyed the mixed media elements with the cookbook and the podcast transcripts - I thought it was a really nice way to introduce new story elements and another POV.
Overall this is an easy cozy read with a satisfying conclusion that I think fans of this genre will really enjoy.
3.5 stars/5
This caught my eye because I’d just read The Knight and the Moth and I was lusting after another Bartholomew!
I haven’t read any mystery books for a while and I think this was an excellent reintroduction. Although this is the tenth book in a series, I think you can come to it as a newcomer and still enjoy it - as I did. The characters were well written and previous events were hinted at just enough that I didn’t feel like I’d missed out but also wasn’t going to spoil my enjoyment of the other books when I pick them up. I also enjoyed the mixed media elements with the cookbook and the podcast transcripts - I thought it was a really nice way to introduce new story elements and another POV.
Overall this is an easy cozy read with a satisfying conclusion that I think fans of this genre will really enjoy.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
A haunted house, an ancient alchemist, a baking gargoyle, and a Halloween mystery... honestly, what more could you ask for?
Thank you to NetGalley, Gargoyle Girl Productions, and Gigi Pandian for providing me with an ARC of The Alchemist of All Hallows' Eve. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
If you had told me years ago that one of my absolute favorite mystery series would feature a French-gargoyle-turned-gourmet-chef who lives in a backyard cottage, I might have laughed. Yet here we are at book ten, The Alchemist of All Hallows Eve, and Gigi Pandian has once again delivered a spellbinding, cozy autumn read.
While this installment might not be my absolute favorite of the entire series, it is a delightfully spooky roller coaster that sets up some incredibly exciting things for book eleven.
A Haunted House and a Gargoyle with Priorities:
The premise of this book is an absolute hook. Zoe (our non-aging alchemist) and Max (her wonderful fiancé and retired detective) are hunting for a home in Portland, Oregon. They stumble upon a gorgeous property complete with a fruit orchard and a perfect back cottage for their gargoyle best friend, Dorian. The catch? The locals call it the "Murder House" due to a forty-year-old cold case, and it is rumored to be haunted.
When a local psychic they’ve just met is found murdered just down the street, Zoe, Max, and Dorian realize they have to solve both the past and present mysteries to finally bring peace to their potential dream home.
The "Scooby Gang" is Back:
What makes this series so special is the family Zoe has built over time. Watching these characters grow and evolve is a joy:
1. Zoe: Still grappling with the emotional weight of her immortality and the fear of finally settling down, Zoe’s vulnerability makes her incredibly relatable.
2. Max: Ever the grounded investigator, Max provides the perfect logical foil to the magical chaos around him, even if he isn't thrilled about buying a house with a dark history.
3. Dorian: As always, the gargoyle chef steals every single scene he is in. Whether he is bribing his teenage sidekicks with world-class baked goods or casually breaking a minor law in the name of justice, Dorian is the beating heart of these books. (His line about not wanting dead bodies in the walls because it is “not conducive to baking” is an instant classic!)
Spooky History and Scrumptious Eats.
Pandian does a fantastic job of weaving fascinating historical tidbits into the plot. This time, we get a deep dive into the Irish origins of All Hallows' Eve, complete with ancient folklore and a spooky séance that kept me guessing.
The chapters are structured with enticing mini-cliffhangers that will absolutely test your willpower to "just read one more chapter" before bed. And, in true Accidental Alchemist fashion, the book wraps up with some mouthwatering, plot-relevant vegan recipes that I cannot wait to try in my own kitchen.
Should You Read This as a Standalone?
While Gigi Pandian is great at recapping previous plot points to catch you up, I strongly recommend starting with book one (The Accidental Alchemist) if you are new to the series. The mystery in this book is incredibly fun, but the true magic lies in watching this found family grow, love, and support one another over the span of ten novels.
The Verdict: A warm, spooky, and utterly charming mystery that is perfect for curling up with on a crisp autumn evening. Highly recommended for cozy mystery lovers, fantasy fans, and anyone who appreciates a gargoyle with excellent culinary standards! With lovable characters, plenty of laughs, and mysteries that keep you guessing until the very end, this series is definitely worth picking up.
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐½
Thank you to NetGalley, Gargoyle Girl Productions, and Gigi Pandian for providing me with an ARC of The Alchemist of All Hallows' Eve. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
If you had told me years ago that one of my absolute favorite mystery series would feature a French-gargoyle-turned-gourmet-chef who lives in a backyard cottage, I might have laughed. Yet here we are at book ten, The Alchemist of All Hallows Eve, and Gigi Pandian has once again delivered a spellbinding, cozy autumn read.
While this installment might not be my absolute favorite of the entire series, it is a delightfully spooky roller coaster that sets up some incredibly exciting things for book eleven.
A Haunted House and a Gargoyle with Priorities:
The premise of this book is an absolute hook. Zoe (our non-aging alchemist) and Max (her wonderful fiancé and retired detective) are hunting for a home in Portland, Oregon. They stumble upon a gorgeous property complete with a fruit orchard and a perfect back cottage for their gargoyle best friend, Dorian. The catch? The locals call it the "Murder House" due to a forty-year-old cold case, and it is rumored to be haunted.
When a local psychic they’ve just met is found murdered just down the street, Zoe, Max, and Dorian realize they have to solve both the past and present mysteries to finally bring peace to their potential dream home.
The "Scooby Gang" is Back:
What makes this series so special is the family Zoe has built over time. Watching these characters grow and evolve is a joy:
1. Zoe: Still grappling with the emotional weight of her immortality and the fear of finally settling down, Zoe’s vulnerability makes her incredibly relatable.
2. Max: Ever the grounded investigator, Max provides the perfect logical foil to the magical chaos around him, even if he isn't thrilled about buying a house with a dark history.
3. Dorian: As always, the gargoyle chef steals every single scene he is in. Whether he is bribing his teenage sidekicks with world-class baked goods or casually breaking a minor law in the name of justice, Dorian is the beating heart of these books. (His line about not wanting dead bodies in the walls because it is “not conducive to baking” is an instant classic!)
Spooky History and Scrumptious Eats.
Pandian does a fantastic job of weaving fascinating historical tidbits into the plot. This time, we get a deep dive into the Irish origins of All Hallows' Eve, complete with ancient folklore and a spooky séance that kept me guessing.
The chapters are structured with enticing mini-cliffhangers that will absolutely test your willpower to "just read one more chapter" before bed. And, in true Accidental Alchemist fashion, the book wraps up with some mouthwatering, plot-relevant vegan recipes that I cannot wait to try in my own kitchen.
Should You Read This as a Standalone?
While Gigi Pandian is great at recapping previous plot points to catch you up, I strongly recommend starting with book one (The Accidental Alchemist) if you are new to the series. The mystery in this book is incredibly fun, but the true magic lies in watching this found family grow, love, and support one another over the span of ten novels.
The Verdict: A warm, spooky, and utterly charming mystery that is perfect for curling up with on a crisp autumn evening. Highly recommended for cozy mystery lovers, fantasy fans, and anyone who appreciates a gargoyle with excellent culinary standards! With lovable characters, plenty of laughs, and mysteries that keep you guessing until the very end, this series is definitely worth picking up.
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐½
Review of advance copy received from Author
Halloween mystery with Zoe and company (gargoyle included)? Count me in!
If you ever wondered about the origins of certain Halloween traditions and practices, you may find those answers in The Alchemist of All Hallows Eve. This tenth book in the Accidental Alchemist series brings back Zoe and her scooby gang of friends and loved ones to solve at least one mystery in Portland Oregon. Some sweet romance, gargoyle shenanigans, a bit of history, some yummy food (and recipes of course), and feel good moments round out the book to keep your senses alive and jumping, along with your curiosity turning pages long after you had resolved to stop reading. As with any series, there are bits of plot from the previous books recapped here as a reminder of what happened before. They're not sufficient however as a replacement for reading the full series, so if you're new to the Accidental Alchemist series, I strongly suggest you start with book one and read them in order for several reasons: so you know what's going on in terms of the plot threads that carry over between books, to spend longer in this universe author Gigi Pandian has beautifully crafted, and to appreciate the growth of the core characters over time and their relationships. Zoe, Max and Dorian are front and center for this one but the secondary characters from previous books show up for a short amount of time or get at least a mention; I found myself wanting more scenes with some of them in this book. There are plenty of new characters introduced here, each distinct and some more memorable than others, perhaps by design. Most chapters end with some kind of cliffhanger or other enticement to get you to read on so pack your willpower or you may end up missing sleep or losing track of time. You may also need a tissue or two handy for a couple of scenes for their sweetness and goodness. The best part of the ending is the note that another book in the series will be out in 2027, followed by the vegan recipes you've come to expect in these books. I learned a lot while reading The Alchemist of All Hallows Eve and was invested in the story, even though I had no hope of solving the mystery (mysteries?) before the reveals occurred. I never do solve these mysteries but don't mind a bit because the stories are always so entertaining, I'm just along for the ride it takes me on every time. There were a couple of moments I saw coming in the plot trajectory but many more I didn't, just the way I like a good mystery or story of any genre really; the more surprised I am the more curious I am to see what happens next. This isn't my favorite book of the series but it does set things in place for book eleven to be another fascinating, educational and entertaining read. I look forward to reading it and any other books that are added to the series in the future. Highly recommend this series and Gigi Pandian's other books and series; I caught at least one reference to a certain company from one of those series here so there may be other Easter eggs I missed while reading.
If you ever wondered about the origins of certain Halloween traditions and practices, you may find those answers in The Alchemist of All Hallows Eve. This tenth book in the Accidental Alchemist series brings back Zoe and her scooby gang of friends and loved ones to solve at least one mystery in Portland Oregon. Some sweet romance, gargoyle shenanigans, a bit of history, some yummy food (and recipes of course), and feel good moments round out the book to keep your senses alive and jumping, along with your curiosity turning pages long after you had resolved to stop reading. As with any series, there are bits of plot from the previous books recapped here as a reminder of what happened before. They're not sufficient however as a replacement for reading the full series, so if you're new to the Accidental Alchemist series, I strongly suggest you start with book one and read them in order for several reasons: so you know what's going on in terms of the plot threads that carry over between books, to spend longer in this universe author Gigi Pandian has beautifully crafted, and to appreciate the growth of the core characters over time and their relationships. Zoe, Max and Dorian are front and center for this one but the secondary characters from previous books show up for a short amount of time or get at least a mention; I found myself wanting more scenes with some of them in this book. There are plenty of new characters introduced here, each distinct and some more memorable than others, perhaps by design. Most chapters end with some kind of cliffhanger or other enticement to get you to read on so pack your willpower or you may end up missing sleep or losing track of time. You may also need a tissue or two handy for a couple of scenes for their sweetness and goodness. The best part of the ending is the note that another book in the series will be out in 2027, followed by the vegan recipes you've come to expect in these books. I learned a lot while reading The Alchemist of All Hallows Eve and was invested in the story, even though I had no hope of solving the mystery (mysteries?) before the reveals occurred. I never do solve these mysteries but don't mind a bit because the stories are always so entertaining, I'm just along for the ride it takes me on every time. There were a couple of moments I saw coming in the plot trajectory but many more I didn't, just the way I like a good mystery or story of any genre really; the more surprised I am the more curious I am to see what happens next. This isn't my favorite book of the series but it does set things in place for book eleven to be another fascinating, educational and entertaining read. I look forward to reading it and any other books that are added to the series in the future. Highly recommend this series and Gigi Pandian's other books and series; I caught at least one reference to a certain company from one of those series here so there may be other Easter eggs I missed while reading.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Genre : Cozy Mystery & Paranormal Mystery
My rating : ★ ★ ★ ★ ☆
Brief :
Zoe Faust has run from her past for centuries. She didn't plan on settling down. She didn't plan on falling for a mortal man. She certainly didn't plan on the gargoyle. Now Zoe, her fiancé, and her French chef gargoyle best friend Dorian have found an enchanting home with a hidden cottage for Dorian. It’s perfect for their little family. Except for one thing: forty years ago, the night before Halloween, a woman was murdered in their dream house. Or was she?
When an enigmatic stranger arrives and insists that a mythological Irish witch holds the secret to the unsolved crime, Halloween turns deadly once more. Refusing to let Zoe lose the home she's waited centuries for, Dorian the gargoyle sets out to crack the case. Can an alchemist, a gargoyle, and a teashop-owning detective solve two Halloween murders before an innocent man takes the fall? The Alchemist of All Hallows Eve is the whimsical tenth book in USA Today bestselling author Gigi Pandian's Anthony Award-winning Accidental Alchemist mystery series.
My opinion :
This is a wonderfully atmospheric and charming cozy mystery that brings all the best parts of the Halloween season straight to the page. The author does a fantastic job of blending the fascinating lore of alchemy with a lighthearted but engaging mystery. It is incredibly easy to get swept up in the adventure and the festive spirit of the world she has created.
One of the strongest elements of this book is the incredible seasonal ambiance. The inclusion of special excerpts and Irish fortune-telling recipes right inside the story adds such a warm, comforting touch that makes you want to curl up with a cup of hot cider. The quirky paranormal charm is also fantastic; having a living gargoyle as a sidekick adds a unique, highly entertaining dynamic to the narrative that sets this series apart from other cozy mysteries.
The narrative sometimes focuses so heavily on the seasonal festivities and the recipes that the core mystery takes a slight backseat. While the cozy details are absolutely delightful and build a great setting, I would have loved just a bit more momentum and urgency in the actual investigation to keep the suspense high.
Overall, this is a fantastic, festive read that delivers almost everything you could want from a magical cozy mystery. I highly recommend it to anyone looking to get into the Halloween spirit with a fun, atmospheric, and heartwarming book!
Thank you to PartnersinCrime and author Gigi Pandian for sending me a copy of this ebook in exchange for my honest review.
My rating : ★ ★ ★ ★ ☆
Brief :
Zoe Faust has run from her past for centuries. She didn't plan on settling down. She didn't plan on falling for a mortal man. She certainly didn't plan on the gargoyle. Now Zoe, her fiancé, and her French chef gargoyle best friend Dorian have found an enchanting home with a hidden cottage for Dorian. It’s perfect for their little family. Except for one thing: forty years ago, the night before Halloween, a woman was murdered in their dream house. Or was she?
When an enigmatic stranger arrives and insists that a mythological Irish witch holds the secret to the unsolved crime, Halloween turns deadly once more. Refusing to let Zoe lose the home she's waited centuries for, Dorian the gargoyle sets out to crack the case. Can an alchemist, a gargoyle, and a teashop-owning detective solve two Halloween murders before an innocent man takes the fall? The Alchemist of All Hallows Eve is the whimsical tenth book in USA Today bestselling author Gigi Pandian's Anthony Award-winning Accidental Alchemist mystery series.
My opinion :
This is a wonderfully atmospheric and charming cozy mystery that brings all the best parts of the Halloween season straight to the page. The author does a fantastic job of blending the fascinating lore of alchemy with a lighthearted but engaging mystery. It is incredibly easy to get swept up in the adventure and the festive spirit of the world she has created.
One of the strongest elements of this book is the incredible seasonal ambiance. The inclusion of special excerpts and Irish fortune-telling recipes right inside the story adds such a warm, comforting touch that makes you want to curl up with a cup of hot cider. The quirky paranormal charm is also fantastic; having a living gargoyle as a sidekick adds a unique, highly entertaining dynamic to the narrative that sets this series apart from other cozy mysteries.
The narrative sometimes focuses so heavily on the seasonal festivities and the recipes that the core mystery takes a slight backseat. While the cozy details are absolutely delightful and build a great setting, I would have loved just a bit more momentum and urgency in the actual investigation to keep the suspense high.
Overall, this is a fantastic, festive read that delivers almost everything you could want from a magical cozy mystery. I highly recommend it to anyone looking to get into the Halloween spirit with a fun, atmospheric, and heartwarming book!
Thank you to PartnersinCrime and author Gigi Pandian for sending me a copy of this ebook in exchange for my honest review.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
I know... I am a bad person... This is my first book in this series, in fact my first by the author - and it is book 10. I have broken my every rule. I am a hypocrite. But, in my defence (if I am allowed one) it just looked so enticing. The cover, the synopses, the everything. And I couldn't help myself.
And I really don't think I suffered for not having the background as the author did a great job of filling me in - which was a blessing as the characters are, well, let's just call them rather unique!
Anyway... we start with Zoe Faust who, despite her looks is very very old! Well... she is an alchemist, after all. She, along with fiancé Max, is planning on buying a house and it is at a house viewing where we first catch up to her. A house she immediately falls in love with and wants so much to buy. It's perfect for her, for them, and also for they gargoyle chum Dorian.
It's so perfect there has to be a catch - I hear you say... Well.. yeah, obviously cos otherwise it'd be a short, boring story. It's... drum roll please... a murder house! I know. Currently owned by Rufus Hitchcock who, despite never being charged or convicted, allegedly killed his girlfriend the night before Halloween, 40 years ago. The case being bungled by the detective. But he had always protested his innocence, and Zoe REALLY wants the house so... obviously... she's going to investigate.
And so begins a cracking story, played out by some of the best characters I have met. I tried, boy did I try, to crack the case myself but eventually just gave up and allowed the author to sweep me along with Zoe as she went round in circles, down blind alleys, and suffered dysfunction, obfuscation, and deception from all and sundry. And I had an absolute blast doing so!
The writing was exemplary and completely fitted with me as a reader. It's tightly potted and said plot well executed with wee chapter cliff-hangers along the way to keep your interest and keep you reading. Good job I cleared my decks before diving in!
And the ending, when it came was perfect and wholly satisfying. Apart from having to say goodbye to the characters. Which I didn't like. In fact, I enjoyed my time with them all so much that I have now gone back and bought the first two books - goodness knows when I will get time to read them, but I will definitely try before the next book is out. My thanks go to the Publisher and Netgalley for the chance to read this book.
And I really don't think I suffered for not having the background as the author did a great job of filling me in - which was a blessing as the characters are, well, let's just call them rather unique!
Anyway... we start with Zoe Faust who, despite her looks is very very old! Well... she is an alchemist, after all. She, along with fiancé Max, is planning on buying a house and it is at a house viewing where we first catch up to her. A house she immediately falls in love with and wants so much to buy. It's perfect for her, for them, and also for they gargoyle chum Dorian.
It's so perfect there has to be a catch - I hear you say... Well.. yeah, obviously cos otherwise it'd be a short, boring story. It's... drum roll please... a murder house! I know. Currently owned by Rufus Hitchcock who, despite never being charged or convicted, allegedly killed his girlfriend the night before Halloween, 40 years ago. The case being bungled by the detective. But he had always protested his innocence, and Zoe REALLY wants the house so... obviously... she's going to investigate.
And so begins a cracking story, played out by some of the best characters I have met. I tried, boy did I try, to crack the case myself but eventually just gave up and allowed the author to sweep me along with Zoe as she went round in circles, down blind alleys, and suffered dysfunction, obfuscation, and deception from all and sundry. And I had an absolute blast doing so!
The writing was exemplary and completely fitted with me as a reader. It's tightly potted and said plot well executed with wee chapter cliff-hangers along the way to keep your interest and keep you reading. Good job I cleared my decks before diving in!
And the ending, when it came was perfect and wholly satisfying. Apart from having to say goodbye to the characters. Which I didn't like. In fact, I enjoyed my time with them all so much that I have now gone back and bought the first two books - goodness knows when I will get time to read them, but I will definitely try before the next book is out. My thanks go to the Publisher and Netgalley for the chance to read this book.
September 13, 2026
THE ALCHEMIST OF ALL HALLOWS EVE by Gigi Pandian
The Tenth Accidental Alchemist Mystery
After hundreds of years of wandering alchemist Zoe Faust is ready to settle down in Portland, Oregon. Engaged to former detective Max Liu, not only is she ready to be married, she's also ready to buy a house. It's not an easy task with the current housing market, plus the need for a separate space her her best friend, Dorian, who happens to be a living gargoyle. Zoe is amazed when she finds her dream house. It's absolutely perfect with an amazing garden and orchard as well as a separate living space with an outstanding gourmet kitchen for Dorian. Not only that, the owner is eager to sell, the property is in their budget, and no one else seems to be interested. Unfortunately, when Max arrives he tells her the reason why. Known as the Murder House it's said that the owner killed his girlfriend there. While Max refuses to live there, Zoe is determined to prove the owner innocent and get her dream house. When a psychic claiming to have information about the cold case is murdered near the property Zoe and Dorian know they must solve both crimes in order to get their happy ending.
I absolutely adore the Accidental Alchemist series and this tenth addition may be my most favorite! Halloween season infuses the mystery with both a cozy and spooky vibe, from Dorian cooking up treats for trick or treaters, autumnal decorations, and a seance in a murder house! It's fun to see how Dorian uses his special abilities to investigate. I appreciate Zoe's connection to Octavia and wish they had more time together. Max is more the skeptic with his doubts about Octavia, yet also more superstitious with his refusal to live in the murder house. Together, with a little help from some friends, they work together brilliantly.
One of my favorite aspects to the whole series is the food. Not only do we get to see Dorian whip up gourmet meals and simple snacks, but in THE ALCHEMIST OF ALL HALLOWS EVE we also get clues in a cookbook. And there are recipes to try yourself at the end of the book.
Finding the perfect home is scary enough, but add a psychic, a medium, and a murder house, with or without bodies in the walls, and you have an amazing Halloween themed mystery with seasonal tips and treats included! While a murder mystery, when it comes down to it THE ALCHEMIST OF ALL HALLOWS EVE is a book about love and what people, and gargoyles, are willing to do for it.
The Tenth Accidental Alchemist Mystery
After hundreds of years of wandering alchemist Zoe Faust is ready to settle down in Portland, Oregon. Engaged to former detective Max Liu, not only is she ready to be married, she's also ready to buy a house. It's not an easy task with the current housing market, plus the need for a separate space her her best friend, Dorian, who happens to be a living gargoyle. Zoe is amazed when she finds her dream house. It's absolutely perfect with an amazing garden and orchard as well as a separate living space with an outstanding gourmet kitchen for Dorian. Not only that, the owner is eager to sell, the property is in their budget, and no one else seems to be interested. Unfortunately, when Max arrives he tells her the reason why. Known as the Murder House it's said that the owner killed his girlfriend there. While Max refuses to live there, Zoe is determined to prove the owner innocent and get her dream house. When a psychic claiming to have information about the cold case is murdered near the property Zoe and Dorian know they must solve both crimes in order to get their happy ending.
I absolutely adore the Accidental Alchemist series and this tenth addition may be my most favorite! Halloween season infuses the mystery with both a cozy and spooky vibe, from Dorian cooking up treats for trick or treaters, autumnal decorations, and a seance in a murder house! It's fun to see how Dorian uses his special abilities to investigate. I appreciate Zoe's connection to Octavia and wish they had more time together. Max is more the skeptic with his doubts about Octavia, yet also more superstitious with his refusal to live in the murder house. Together, with a little help from some friends, they work together brilliantly.
One of my favorite aspects to the whole series is the food. Not only do we get to see Dorian whip up gourmet meals and simple snacks, but in THE ALCHEMIST OF ALL HALLOWS EVE we also get clues in a cookbook. And there are recipes to try yourself at the end of the book.
Finding the perfect home is scary enough, but add a psychic, a medium, and a murder house, with or without bodies in the walls, and you have an amazing Halloween themed mystery with seasonal tips and treats included! While a murder mystery, when it comes down to it THE ALCHEMIST OF ALL HALLOWS EVE is a book about love and what people, and gargoyles, are willing to do for it.
September 14, 2026
Everything is going right: Zoe Faust has found the man and the house of her dreams. Almost. It comes with an orchard and a secondary residence with a huge kitchen; it’s perfect for their needs. But…it’s also nicknamed the “Murder House,” and yeah, there might be a body or two tucked in the walls. She’s still game, but her fiancé, Max, has his doubts. There’s nothing for it but to prove the homeowner innocent and that the house was not the scene of the crime.
I confess that I’m new to the Accidental Alchemist world, and coming in at book ten means I’ve missed a few things. However, that wasn’t a problem. The story, while certainly referring to previous events, does not lean on them or require context from the earlier books to be understood or enjoyed.
There are a number of highlights baked into this tale; one is Dorian. Zoe and Max are lovely, but a French chef gargoyle who sees himself as a new incarnation of Agatha Christie’s Poirot? He cooks, he’s good with children, he’s up for a bit of skullduggery. This little guy has it all!
Then there is the Irish food-forward divination folklore. I’d never heard of a mangelwurzel, and as a fan of Tasting History, this was just cool. There are even recipes at the back of the book.
I’m also a sucker for house-hunting, interesting boutiques, and found family, so this was a very fun read.
There are a few convenient plot jumps. One character reported some possible tension that was not evident to the reader, and in the next scene, there was a small stormy bit. There was also a supporting-character relationship that bloomed out of nowhere. Nothing too big, but both pulled me out of the story a bit.
Similarly, Zoe’s investigative style relies heavily on what people say for themselves and impulse. When she and her cohort stumble over a contradiction, they set a trap…only to discover it was the wrong person. It lacks realism, but part of the charm of the story is that it’s an escape.
The Alchemist of All Hallows Eve is light, quirky, cozy fun, perfect for a seasonal read by the fire. Cozy fans who crave a little magic in the mix will love the food and folklore.
Thank you, Gargoyle Girl Productions, for the opportunity to read The Alchemist of All Hallows Eve. I received a complimentary copy through NetGalley, and I wrote this review voluntarily.
I confess that I’m new to the Accidental Alchemist world, and coming in at book ten means I’ve missed a few things. However, that wasn’t a problem. The story, while certainly referring to previous events, does not lean on them or require context from the earlier books to be understood or enjoyed.
There are a number of highlights baked into this tale; one is Dorian. Zoe and Max are lovely, but a French chef gargoyle who sees himself as a new incarnation of Agatha Christie’s Poirot? He cooks, he’s good with children, he’s up for a bit of skullduggery. This little guy has it all!
Then there is the Irish food-forward divination folklore. I’d never heard of a mangelwurzel, and as a fan of Tasting History, this was just cool. There are even recipes at the back of the book.
I’m also a sucker for house-hunting, interesting boutiques, and found family, so this was a very fun read.
There are a few convenient plot jumps. One character reported some possible tension that was not evident to the reader, and in the next scene, there was a small stormy bit. There was also a supporting-character relationship that bloomed out of nowhere. Nothing too big, but both pulled me out of the story a bit.
Similarly, Zoe’s investigative style relies heavily on what people say for themselves and impulse. When she and her cohort stumble over a contradiction, they set a trap…only to discover it was the wrong person. It lacks realism, but part of the charm of the story is that it’s an escape.
The Alchemist of All Hallows Eve is light, quirky, cozy fun, perfect for a seasonal read by the fire. Cozy fans who crave a little magic in the mix will love the food and folklore.
Thank you, Gargoyle Girl Productions, for the opportunity to read The Alchemist of All Hallows Eve. I received a complimentary copy through NetGalley, and I wrote this review voluntarily.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
5/5 stars: This is Pandian's tenth entry in the Accidental Alchemist Mysteries series which is a BIPOC Paranormal Cozy Mystery set in Oregon. Following an eternally young alchemist, her French chef gargoyle best friend and her teashop-owning former detective boyfriend as they find themselves turning sleuths to investigate a forty-year-old cold case. After discovering that her dream home's owned by an infamous suspected killer, she's determined to uncover the truth and clear the owner's name and repair the house's reputation. But when an enigmatic stranger arrives and insists that a mythological Irish witch holds the secret to the unsolved crime, Halloween turns deadly once more. As the trio and their friends dig into the case, they'll listen to an old podcast, track down old articles and cookbooks and search out new and old clues and suspects. Now with two murders to solve, they'll have to work fast to crack the case before an innocent man takes the fall once and for all.
With plenty of twists and turns, Pandian has masterfully crafted a mystery that deftly balances the suspects, clues and red herrings and will leave you pondering the whodunit until the final reveal. Witty and tons of fun, Pandian's writing and character work are stellar; the main characters are well-rounded and complex while remaining incredibly likable with a secondary cast that are well crafted and uniquely voiced.
• Paranormal: features an alchemist, alchemy and a gargoyle.
• Features plenty of yummy food descriptions throughout and includes a couple oh so delicious sounding recipes.
While you could read this as a stand-alone, you'll gain so much more by reading the series from the beginning; so be sure to pick up book one, The Accidental Alchemist.
I received this eARC thanks to NetGalley and Gargoyle Girl Productions in exchange for an honest review. Publishing dates are subject to change.
With plenty of twists and turns, Pandian has masterfully crafted a mystery that deftly balances the suspects, clues and red herrings and will leave you pondering the whodunit until the final reveal. Witty and tons of fun, Pandian's writing and character work are stellar; the main characters are well-rounded and complex while remaining incredibly likable with a secondary cast that are well crafted and uniquely voiced.
• Paranormal: features an alchemist, alchemy and a gargoyle.
• Features plenty of yummy food descriptions throughout and includes a couple oh so delicious sounding recipes.
While you could read this as a stand-alone, you'll gain so much more by reading the series from the beginning; so be sure to pick up book one, The Accidental Alchemist.
I received this eARC thanks to NetGalley and Gargoyle Girl Productions in exchange for an honest review. Publishing dates are subject to change.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
In the tenth book in Gigi Pandian's Accidental Alchemist Mystery series, The Alchemist of All Hallows Eve, Zoe Faust is engaged to former detective Max. The pair are seeking a new home together, and Zoe knows she has found the perfect place to meet their requirements and desires.
But Max doesn't want to live in what he considers to be a murder house, where a young woman was rumored to have been killed 40 years earlier. So Zoe does some investigating to attempt to refute the house's reputation, with input from a self-professed medium, the real estate agent, and even the man who is thought to be the murderer, among others. All agree that no one was murdered in the house or hidden behind the walls, but Max isn't easily convinced. So Dorian, a small gargoyle brought to life through magic who is a regular character in this unique series, gets involved. He wants his friends to have their perfect home, and he fancies himself a fearless, expert investigator, although he can never leave his current home in daylight without a disguise.
When one of the supporting characters meets a grisly end, and after a a disturbing séance reveals further clues,the plot thickens even further. Even Zoe starts to wonder whether she really wants to purchase the house as their forever home, especially since, as an alchemist herself, she never ages and feels she has to move when friends and neighbors start getting suspicious.
I really enjoy the relationship between Zoe and Max, although it isn't at the forefront of this particular book, and little Dorian can always be counted on to take dangerous chances and to display his own analytical skills. This book is a worthy successor to the books that precede it, and another in this series is planned for release in 2027. I am also a fan of Gigi Pandian's Secret Staircase Mysteries and Jaya Jones Treasure Hunt Mysteries.
My review is based on a complimentary pre-release copy of this book.
But Max doesn't want to live in what he considers to be a murder house, where a young woman was rumored to have been killed 40 years earlier. So Zoe does some investigating to attempt to refute the house's reputation, with input from a self-professed medium, the real estate agent, and even the man who is thought to be the murderer, among others. All agree that no one was murdered in the house or hidden behind the walls, but Max isn't easily convinced. So Dorian, a small gargoyle brought to life through magic who is a regular character in this unique series, gets involved. He wants his friends to have their perfect home, and he fancies himself a fearless, expert investigator, although he can never leave his current home in daylight without a disguise.
When one of the supporting characters meets a grisly end, and after a a disturbing séance reveals further clues,the plot thickens even further. Even Zoe starts to wonder whether she really wants to purchase the house as their forever home, especially since, as an alchemist herself, she never ages and feels she has to move when friends and neighbors start getting suspicious.
I really enjoy the relationship between Zoe and Max, although it isn't at the forefront of this particular book, and little Dorian can always be counted on to take dangerous chances and to display his own analytical skills. This book is a worthy successor to the books that precede it, and another in this series is planned for release in 2027. I am also a fan of Gigi Pandian's Secret Staircase Mysteries and Jaya Jones Treasure Hunt Mysteries.
My review is based on a complimentary pre-release copy of this book.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
The Alchemist of All Hallows Eve is a charming, whimsical cozy mystery that brings together everything I enjoy about cozy fantasy: an unusual cast of characters, an atmospheric setting, a decades-old murder, and just enough magic to make the whole thing wonderfully different.
Zoe Faust is an eternally young alchemist who has spent centuries running from her past, but now she's finally found a place that feels like home. Unfortunately, that dream house comes with a rather disturbing history. Forty years earlier, a woman was murdered there, and just before Halloween, the mystery begins resurfacing.
And then there's Dorian.
The French chef gargoyle is easily one of my favorite parts of the story. Dorian's determination to solve the murder gives the investigation a fun Poirot-style personality, and watching an alchemist, a gargoyle, and their friends work together makes for a delightful found-family dynamic.
The mystery itself kept me interested, with two murders, an enigmatic stranger, an Irish witch, and plenty of questions about what really happened all those years ago. The Halloween atmosphere adds an extra layer of charm without making the story overly dark.
I especially enjoyed the balance between the mystery and the relationships between the characters. There is a genuine sense of warmth and belonging beneath all the murder investigations, which is exactly what I want from a cozy mystery.
This is Book 10 in the Accidental Alchemist Mysteries, and while longtime fans will probably get even more enjoyment from the established relationships, the story still offers plenty of charm for readers discovering the series.
A fun, magical, Halloween-themed mystery with a delightful cast and plenty of cozy vibes.
Zoe Faust is an eternally young alchemist who has spent centuries running from her past, but now she's finally found a place that feels like home. Unfortunately, that dream house comes with a rather disturbing history. Forty years earlier, a woman was murdered there, and just before Halloween, the mystery begins resurfacing.
And then there's Dorian.
The French chef gargoyle is easily one of my favorite parts of the story. Dorian's determination to solve the murder gives the investigation a fun Poirot-style personality, and watching an alchemist, a gargoyle, and their friends work together makes for a delightful found-family dynamic.
The mystery itself kept me interested, with two murders, an enigmatic stranger, an Irish witch, and plenty of questions about what really happened all those years ago. The Halloween atmosphere adds an extra layer of charm without making the story overly dark.
I especially enjoyed the balance between the mystery and the relationships between the characters. There is a genuine sense of warmth and belonging beneath all the murder investigations, which is exactly what I want from a cozy mystery.
This is Book 10 in the Accidental Alchemist Mysteries, and while longtime fans will probably get even more enjoyment from the established relationships, the story still offers plenty of charm for readers discovering the series.
A fun, magical, Halloween-themed mystery with a delightful cast and plenty of cozy vibes.
September 13, 2026
My first thought was that The Alchemist of All Hallows Eve by Gigi Pandian was the perfect read to start off Spoopy season and my second was that I was utterly besotted!
I must preface this review in that I am discovering this series at book ten but after this book, I will certainly be investing in books 1 to 9 of the Accidental Alchemist Mystery Series and adding this author to my "Must buy" list
"An eternally young alchemist. A gargoyle who fancies himself Poirot. A Murder House for sale the week before Halloween"
Zoe, her fiance Max and their best friend Dorian the Gargoyle (a genius group if ever there was one) are about to move into their dream house in Portland, Oregon, when they discover it holds a dark past. The rumours claim that forty years prior, a woman was unalived in the house but the case went cold
Things take a turn when another unaliving is discovered nearby and Zoe, Max and Dorian jump into action to solve both cases
(let me just say that Dorian the Gourmet Gargoyle is abslutely priceless as comedy relief in this cosy mystery. I was howling with laughter multiple times)
The beauty of this book for me was not just a really well structured mystery and great characters, but also the inclusion of authentic All Hallows history from the annuls of Irish folklore. This gives the book a genuine, rich feel and a satisfying storyline.
The Alchemist of All Hallows Eve is fun, intriguing and everything you want in a cosy mystery with the added garnish of a gargoyle who delivers in every phrase he utters
If you love a good mystery and giggling until your face aches, this is certainly the book for you!
Thank you to the author and Partners in Crime for this awesome review copy. My review is left volutarily and all opinions are my own
I must preface this review in that I am discovering this series at book ten but after this book, I will certainly be investing in books 1 to 9 of the Accidental Alchemist Mystery Series and adding this author to my "Must buy" list
"An eternally young alchemist. A gargoyle who fancies himself Poirot. A Murder House for sale the week before Halloween"
Zoe, her fiance Max and their best friend Dorian the Gargoyle (a genius group if ever there was one) are about to move into their dream house in Portland, Oregon, when they discover it holds a dark past. The rumours claim that forty years prior, a woman was unalived in the house but the case went cold
Things take a turn when another unaliving is discovered nearby and Zoe, Max and Dorian jump into action to solve both cases
(let me just say that Dorian the Gourmet Gargoyle is abslutely priceless as comedy relief in this cosy mystery. I was howling with laughter multiple times)
The beauty of this book for me was not just a really well structured mystery and great characters, but also the inclusion of authentic All Hallows history from the annuls of Irish folklore. This gives the book a genuine, rich feel and a satisfying storyline.
The Alchemist of All Hallows Eve is fun, intriguing and everything you want in a cosy mystery with the added garnish of a gargoyle who delivers in every phrase he utters
If you love a good mystery and giggling until your face aches, this is certainly the book for you!
Thank you to the author and Partners in Crime for this awesome review copy. My review is left volutarily and all opinions are my own
July 28, 2026
Lovely and heartwarming (and a damn fine mystery).
I was worried we’d start to see some “serial blight,” since Zoe has found her people and her place in the world on the previous novels. Not so! All starts out on an even keel and then before you know it there’s a mystery to solve.
This mystery involves really just our three main characters, Zoe, Max and Dorian with small appearances of appropriate side characters when needed. I like that Pandian doesn’t feel the need to use a full cast if the story doesn’t warrant it, so there’s no dead weight. Pandian continues to grow as an author and it really shows. I didn’t guess the murderer; the means, motive opportunity all made solid sense - and more sense than all the other permutations of suspects.
I also love the sense of community and kindness in the book, even at the cost of self-sacrifice. (It’s heart warming and needed in these rocky times).
Although I have recently refused to read books that take place in the USA and prioritize non-USA authors (yay Canada and the Commonwealth), Pandian is so good she will continue to be the exception to the rule. And Portland is in the Pacific Northwest, so there’s more cultural similarities to my everyday life.
If you haven’t read any of Pandian’s other series, it actually only gets better from here! (That is if you like a little more adventure - Jaya Jones - or trickier to solve - Secret Staircase).
This gets 4/5 stars and on my rating - which by the way is the highest rating a book gets on my personal rating system. She’ll probably get 5/5 when I reread the series, which I am wont to do. (5 stars means I loved a book so much I’ve read it multiple times).
I was worried we’d start to see some “serial blight,” since Zoe has found her people and her place in the world on the previous novels. Not so! All starts out on an even keel and then before you know it there’s a mystery to solve.
This mystery involves really just our three main characters, Zoe, Max and Dorian with small appearances of appropriate side characters when needed. I like that Pandian doesn’t feel the need to use a full cast if the story doesn’t warrant it, so there’s no dead weight. Pandian continues to grow as an author and it really shows. I didn’t guess the murderer; the means, motive opportunity all made solid sense - and more sense than all the other permutations of suspects.
I also love the sense of community and kindness in the book, even at the cost of self-sacrifice. (It’s heart warming and needed in these rocky times).
Although I have recently refused to read books that take place in the USA and prioritize non-USA authors (yay Canada and the Commonwealth), Pandian is so good she will continue to be the exception to the rule. And Portland is in the Pacific Northwest, so there’s more cultural similarities to my everyday life.
If you haven’t read any of Pandian’s other series, it actually only gets better from here! (That is if you like a little more adventure - Jaya Jones - or trickier to solve - Secret Staircase).
This gets 4/5 stars and on my rating - which by the way is the highest rating a book gets on my personal rating system. She’ll probably get 5/5 when I reread the series, which I am wont to do. (5 stars means I loved a book so much I’ve read it multiple times).
July 15, 2026
A lot of series start to get weak after a few books, but not this one. The Alchemist of All Hallows Eve continues the intrigue of the Accidental Alchemist series.
The story starts strong with Zoe getting pulled into something that immediately captivates her and captures her heart. All the while, the reader can tell she’s walking into danger. It’s hard to not get sucked in after that.
There are twists and turns and nothing is as it seems - which is something Pandian does really well in all the Accidental Alchemist books. This one felt a little darker to me - maybe because of the whole “danger in the perfect garden” feel that set the tone for the rest of the book. It’s still very much a cozy mystery though, with no gore and everything getting wrapped up neatly and in a satisfying way at the end.
It’s a fun read and you feel like you’re walking alongside Zoe as she puzzles through the mystery of the murder house. I read it in the middle of an insanely hot summer, yet I had autumn vibes as I read. I really want to avoid the use of the term atmospheric because I feel it’s overused. But this book really is. You are pulled into the world of the Pacific Northwest in fall.
If you like plot twists, main characters who get it wrong a few times before getting it right, descriptive writing that immerses you, then you’ll love this book.
Thank you to NetGalley for allowing me to be an early reader.
The story starts strong with Zoe getting pulled into something that immediately captivates her and captures her heart. All the while, the reader can tell she’s walking into danger. It’s hard to not get sucked in after that.
There are twists and turns and nothing is as it seems - which is something Pandian does really well in all the Accidental Alchemist books. This one felt a little darker to me - maybe because of the whole “danger in the perfect garden” feel that set the tone for the rest of the book. It’s still very much a cozy mystery though, with no gore and everything getting wrapped up neatly and in a satisfying way at the end.
It’s a fun read and you feel like you’re walking alongside Zoe as she puzzles through the mystery of the murder house. I read it in the middle of an insanely hot summer, yet I had autumn vibes as I read. I really want to avoid the use of the term atmospheric because I feel it’s overused. But this book really is. You are pulled into the world of the Pacific Northwest in fall.
If you like plot twists, main characters who get it wrong a few times before getting it right, descriptive writing that immerses you, then you’ll love this book.
Thank you to NetGalley for allowing me to be an early reader.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Alchemist Zoe Faust has finally found her dream home, where she hopes to settle down with her fiancé Max, a former police officer, and Dorian, the brilliant gargoyle chef. There is just one problem: the house's owner is said to have murdered his girlfriend there forty years ago. When Zoe, Max, and Dorian begin digging into the decades-old mystery, another murder occurs, giving them every reason to uncover the truth.
Gigi Pandian skillfully combines Zoe's first-person narration with Dorian's wonderfully entertaining point of view, as he firmly believes himself to be an exceptional detective. The novel is further enriched by excerpts from a cookbook, fascinating details about Irish Halloween traditions, and even the transcript of a podcast. These elements blend seamlessly into the story and add to its unique charm.
What I loved most were the likeable characters, the engaging mystery, the mouth-watering culinary descriptions, the subtle paranormal touches, and, above all, the warm, comforting atmosphere. Even though this is the tenth book in the series, it works perfectly well as a standalone. If you enjoy cosy mysteries with a touch of magic, memorable characters, and plenty of heart, you'll probably finish this book looking forward to the next instalment just as much as I did.
Gigi Pandian skillfully combines Zoe's first-person narration with Dorian's wonderfully entertaining point of view, as he firmly believes himself to be an exceptional detective. The novel is further enriched by excerpts from a cookbook, fascinating details about Irish Halloween traditions, and even the transcript of a podcast. These elements blend seamlessly into the story and add to its unique charm.
What I loved most were the likeable characters, the engaging mystery, the mouth-watering culinary descriptions, the subtle paranormal touches, and, above all, the warm, comforting atmosphere. Even though this is the tenth book in the series, it works perfectly well as a standalone. If you enjoy cosy mysteries with a touch of magic, memorable characters, and plenty of heart, you'll probably finish this book looking forward to the next instalment just as much as I did.
September 17, 2026
The Alchemist of All Hallows Eve was such a fun and cozy Halloween mystery! I absolutely loved the mix of magic, mystery, quirky characters, and all the fall vibes.
Zoe, Max, and Dorian are looking for their perfect home, but there’s just one little problem… it’s known as the Murder House. Forty years ago, a woman was murdered there, and now Zoe is determined to uncover what really happened so they can finally have their dream home.
I loved watching them dig into this cold case and follow all the clues. There were twists, secrets, red herrings, and plenty of moments that had me questioning who could actually be responsible. Just when I thought I had things figured out, another clue would pop up and make me question everything.
And Dorian, a living gargoyle. I absolutely loved him. How could you not love him?! He brought so much humor to the story, and I loved the found family dynamic between Zoe, Max, Dorian, and the rest of the characters.
I really enjoyed the Halloween atmosphere. From the mystery surrounding the house to the alchemy, Irish folklore, recipes, and all the little magical touches, this book gave me exactly the cozy fall vibes I was looking for.
This was my first time reading this series, and while there are ten books, I was still able to jump into this story and follow along. Now I definitely want to go back and get more of Zoe, Max, and Dorian!
Zoe, Max, and Dorian are looking for their perfect home, but there’s just one little problem… it’s known as the Murder House. Forty years ago, a woman was murdered there, and now Zoe is determined to uncover what really happened so they can finally have their dream home.
I loved watching them dig into this cold case and follow all the clues. There were twists, secrets, red herrings, and plenty of moments that had me questioning who could actually be responsible. Just when I thought I had things figured out, another clue would pop up and make me question everything.
And Dorian, a living gargoyle. I absolutely loved him. How could you not love him?! He brought so much humor to the story, and I loved the found family dynamic between Zoe, Max, Dorian, and the rest of the characters.
I really enjoyed the Halloween atmosphere. From the mystery surrounding the house to the alchemy, Irish folklore, recipes, and all the little magical touches, this book gave me exactly the cozy fall vibes I was looking for.
This was my first time reading this series, and while there are ten books, I was still able to jump into this story and follow along. Now I definitely want to go back and get more of Zoe, Max, and Dorian!
September 11, 2026
I have loved The Accidental Alchemist from the very first page. It has never disappointed me and it has never stopped keeping me awake far too late at night. Spending time with Dorian, Zoe, Max and the whole crew is always a pleasure, and the mystery remains solid, full of surprises and capable of holding my attention until the final page.
Gigi Pandian is a gifted storyteller and a brilliant plot builder, crafting stories grounded in the tradition of Golden Age mysteries while keeping the lightness and charm that make the reading experience genuinely fun. I believe this is one of the strongest instalments in this wonderful series: a cold case, a gorgeous house, a passion for cooking, strange supernatural abilities and a man accused of being some sort of serial killer.
I read it without being able to stop, genuinely annoyed whenever I had to interrupt my reading for mundane tasks like getting off the bus or going to sleep. My date with The Accidental Alchemist is always something I look forward t
o with real anticipation, and opening a new book in the series gives me immediate joy.
A story that is entertaining, layered and compelling. Read it and enjoy it.
Highly recommended. Many thanks for this digital copy, all opinions are mine
Gigi Pandian is a gifted storyteller and a brilliant plot builder, crafting stories grounded in the tradition of Golden Age mysteries while keeping the lightness and charm that make the reading experience genuinely fun. I believe this is one of the strongest instalments in this wonderful series: a cold case, a gorgeous house, a passion for cooking, strange supernatural abilities and a man accused of being some sort of serial killer.
I read it without being able to stop, genuinely annoyed whenever I had to interrupt my reading for mundane tasks like getting off the bus or going to sleep. My date with The Accidental Alchemist is always something I look forward t
o with real anticipation, and opening a new book in the series gives me immediate joy.
A story that is entertaining, layered and compelling. Read it and enjoy it.
Highly recommended. Many thanks for this digital copy, all opinions are mine
September 14, 2026
This one was quirky, with characters that really stood out and a storyline that blended paranormal and magical realism with reality in a way I did not expect. This is my first time reading Gigi Pandian and I had so much fun with it.
It was so fun to step inside a world where magical alchemists and talking gargoyles are totally accepted, but psychics are considered a scam that could not possibly be real. The irony was funny and actually added a realistic quality to the characters, of course they would be real to themselves, and of course they would still be skeptical of other paranormal forms existing.
Dorian was my favorite. His personality offered the comedic relief to an otherwise mysterious and dark story. Our cast, an alchemist, a gargoyle, and a teashop owning detective, was cozy, loveable, silly, relatable, and completely fantastical all at once.
These characters had real life problems too, buying a house, paying the bills, planning their future together, all while balancing witches, ghosts, murders, hauntings, and psychics in the middle of solving a murder mystery.
At its core, this book is about leaning on your own truth, even when nothing around you makes sense.
If you love cozy fantasy murder mysteries, this one belongs on your list.
It was so fun to step inside a world where magical alchemists and talking gargoyles are totally accepted, but psychics are considered a scam that could not possibly be real. The irony was funny and actually added a realistic quality to the characters, of course they would be real to themselves, and of course they would still be skeptical of other paranormal forms existing.
Dorian was my favorite. His personality offered the comedic relief to an otherwise mysterious and dark story. Our cast, an alchemist, a gargoyle, and a teashop owning detective, was cozy, loveable, silly, relatable, and completely fantastical all at once.
These characters had real life problems too, buying a house, paying the bills, planning their future together, all while balancing witches, ghosts, murders, hauntings, and psychics in the middle of solving a murder mystery.
At its core, this book is about leaning on your own truth, even when nothing around you makes sense.
If you love cozy fantasy murder mysteries, this one belongs on your list.
September 26, 2026
Title: The Alchemist of All Hallows Eve
By: Gigi Pandian
Platform: Netgalley, PICTours
Thank you to Gargoyle Girls Productions, Partners in Crime Tours and Netgalley for an advanced readers copy of this book. The following my personal thoughts/review.
Background: The story follows main character Zoe, her fiance Max, and their living gargoyle friend Dorian. Zoe finds the perfect house for her to start her new family in… there’s just one problem… it’s known as “the murder house.” If they want to buy the house… they’ll have to solve the murders first.
My thoughts: This was the perfect fall/halloween read. I absolutely adored Zoe, she was a fantastic mfc. And Dorian? We all need a Dorian. He was hilarious and sweet and clever.
I really enjoyed Gigi’s style of writing and found myself lost in Zoe’s world. She did a great job of keeping you guessing on who the murderer was right up until the end. I recommend this book for anyone who enjoys:
x Cozy mysteries
x A good Who Done It
x Halloween vibes
x Alchemy and/or Witchery
You can find her book in bookstores everywhere. Here is the link to purchase via Amazon.
https://www.amazon.com/Alchemist-All-...
By: Gigi Pandian
Platform: Netgalley, PICTours
Thank you to Gargoyle Girls Productions, Partners in Crime Tours and Netgalley for an advanced readers copy of this book. The following my personal thoughts/review.
Background: The story follows main character Zoe, her fiance Max, and their living gargoyle friend Dorian. Zoe finds the perfect house for her to start her new family in… there’s just one problem… it’s known as “the murder house.” If they want to buy the house… they’ll have to solve the murders first.
My thoughts: This was the perfect fall/halloween read. I absolutely adored Zoe, she was a fantastic mfc. And Dorian? We all need a Dorian. He was hilarious and sweet and clever.
I really enjoyed Gigi’s style of writing and found myself lost in Zoe’s world. She did a great job of keeping you guessing on who the murderer was right up until the end. I recommend this book for anyone who enjoys:
x Cozy mysteries
x A good Who Done It
x Halloween vibes
x Alchemy and/or Witchery
You can find her book in bookstores everywhere. Here is the link to purchase via Amazon.
https://www.amazon.com/Alchemist-All-...
July 16, 2026
3.75/5 ⭐️
Characters 4/5⭐️ : believable and likable
Plot 3.75/5⭐️ Satisfying conclusion, slow start, strong finish, twisty
Setting 3.5/5⭐️ atmospheric, realistic, fits the story
Writing Style 4/5⭐️ easy to read, descriptive
Gigi Pandian will be a new go to for a cozy mystery. I enjoyed the cast of characters. Definitely not an ending I saw coming. Fun cozy mystery!
Marked a couple of stars down due to the slow start but the ending is perfection!! Just took a minute to get into!
Zoe Faust a 450 year old, younger presenting, alchemist and her fiancé are looking to buy a house. The most perfect, picturesque house with a backyard cottage, garden and dreamlike kitchen is on the market. However, it is the “murder house”. 40 years ago on Halloween a young lady was murdered by her boyfriend, or so everyone thinks.
Zoe and Max (fiancé) along with a gargoyle (perfect for fall vibes☺️) set out to solve the murder, so they can finally buy their dream house. The clues and people they meet/ have help along the way make the cast of characters so fun and relatable. I will definitely be looking into the back log of this series, especially for fall!
Characters 4/5⭐️ : believable and likable
Plot 3.75/5⭐️ Satisfying conclusion, slow start, strong finish, twisty
Setting 3.5/5⭐️ atmospheric, realistic, fits the story
Writing Style 4/5⭐️ easy to read, descriptive
Gigi Pandian will be a new go to for a cozy mystery. I enjoyed the cast of characters. Definitely not an ending I saw coming. Fun cozy mystery!
Marked a couple of stars down due to the slow start but the ending is perfection!! Just took a minute to get into!
Zoe Faust a 450 year old, younger presenting, alchemist and her fiancé are looking to buy a house. The most perfect, picturesque house with a backyard cottage, garden and dreamlike kitchen is on the market. However, it is the “murder house”. 40 years ago on Halloween a young lady was murdered by her boyfriend, or so everyone thinks.
Zoe and Max (fiancé) along with a gargoyle (perfect for fall vibes☺️) set out to solve the murder, so they can finally buy their dream house. The clues and people they meet/ have help along the way make the cast of characters so fun and relatable. I will definitely be looking into the back log of this series, especially for fall!
September 17, 2026
The Alchemist of All Hallows Eve by Gigi Pandian is a superb Halloween cozy mystery! I loved the characters, the Poirot twist, and how humans and paranormal beings and things welded together. A past murder mystery collides with the present when trouble arrives and the new house guests must learn quickly how to solve the issue before it gets deadly. I am a huge fan of all things paranormal/magic and I'm a big fan of crime fiction. This book has it all! Gigi Pandian creates a magical three dimensional world that engages, hooks, and lures readers like me deeper into a world they never want to end. I'm hoping Gigi writes more books featuring these characters. A gargoyle chef that is also a detective...that is the most unique combination of twists I've ever read in a book. For fans of Halloween Town, Casper, Hocus Pocus, and the orginal Adams Family movies will love this read as much as I have. What a grand adventure! Perfect for a spooky Halloween suspense vibe and a thrill like no other. Plus, there's food, romance, and humor!
I received this copy from the publisher. This is my voluntary review.
I received this copy from the publisher. This is my voluntary review.
August 19, 2026
Thank you, NetGalley and Gigi Pandian for the opportunity to read this as an ARC. This review is my own.
I’d like to preface this by saying this is book 10 in the series, and I’ve read none of the preceding books. This was written in such a way that I was still able to enjoy and understand the characters when I went on the hunt for a cozy fall mystery.
Zoe, an immortal alchemist, Max, her ex-detective fiancé, and Dorian, a Notre Dame gargoyle come to life stumble onto a decades-old mystery when they visit a house they’re interested in buying. Another murder occurs at the property, and they go all in on solving the crimes and clearing the owner and property of their murderous past.
The characters are quirky and fun. I especially loved Dorian (I am apparently a sucker for talking gargoyles, Bartholomew). The mystery gets a little convoluted, and I’m not sure there’s a suspect they don’t accuse of murder at one point or another, but the Halloween vibes are great. Would recommend for anyone looking for a cozy, quick, quirky Halloween mystery!
I’d like to preface this by saying this is book 10 in the series, and I’ve read none of the preceding books. This was written in such a way that I was still able to enjoy and understand the characters when I went on the hunt for a cozy fall mystery.
Zoe, an immortal alchemist, Max, her ex-detective fiancé, and Dorian, a Notre Dame gargoyle come to life stumble onto a decades-old mystery when they visit a house they’re interested in buying. Another murder occurs at the property, and they go all in on solving the crimes and clearing the owner and property of their murderous past.
The characters are quirky and fun. I especially loved Dorian (I am apparently a sucker for talking gargoyles, Bartholomew). The mystery gets a little convoluted, and I’m not sure there’s a suspect they don’t accuse of murder at one point or another, but the Halloween vibes are great. Would recommend for anyone looking for a cozy, quick, quirky Halloween mystery!
September 10, 2026
Zoe has found the house of he dreams and she can just envision the life that she, Max and Dorian can have with two separate houses and a garden and orchard!! But Max puts his foot down since it’s the town’s Murder House.
Zoe will not be dissuade and sets out to prove the owner is not a murderer and claim the home she already loves. But the killer has other plans and Zoe has to be careful, as does Dorian. Can the three of them, along with their teenage friends, figure out who the real murderer is? Because Zoe knows it’s not the man everyone thinks it is.
I’m not sure how I came to fall in love with a Gargoyle, but there you have it. Dorian is one my favorite characters in the cozy mystery world! I adore this series and another this author writes. She’s clever and witty and you just can’t help fall for everyone in this book. Give it a read if you haven’t yet…each one will read fine as a stand alone as it gives you enough background for the things you need to know from previous entries.
Zoe will not be dissuade and sets out to prove the owner is not a murderer and claim the home she already loves. But the killer has other plans and Zoe has to be careful, as does Dorian. Can the three of them, along with their teenage friends, figure out who the real murderer is? Because Zoe knows it’s not the man everyone thinks it is.
I’m not sure how I came to fall in love with a Gargoyle, but there you have it. Dorian is one my favorite characters in the cozy mystery world! I adore this series and another this author writes. She’s clever and witty and you just can’t help fall for everyone in this book. Give it a read if you haven’t yet…each one will read fine as a stand alone as it gives you enough background for the things you need to know from previous entries.
September 10, 2026
BEST BOOK IN SERIES AND I HAVE LOVED THEM ALL!
This is a sweet, funny, poignant, page turner of a cozy mystery. Perfect for Halloween!
Dorian, the gargoyles up to his qwerty, hilarious, old tricks. I think this is my favorite, though I confess I thought the same about the last 9 stories in the series.
As always, Julia Motyka does a wonderful job with the narration, so if you would prefer the audio version, this one is really good! My thanks to Gigi Pandian for letting me read and listen to advanced copies. If You are new to this series,I will say that there is enough explanation along the way for you to understand what the series is about and get a good feel for the characters. Maybe read the synopsis for each book, if you like, before starting this one, to get a sense of the plot direction.
Either way, whether new to Gigi or established fans of Gigi, You will love this book. It is tame enough for your teens to enjoy, as well. I highly recommend this book and if I could give it 10 stars, I would❣️
This is a sweet, funny, poignant, page turner of a cozy mystery. Perfect for Halloween!
Dorian, the gargoyles up to his qwerty, hilarious, old tricks. I think this is my favorite, though I confess I thought the same about the last 9 stories in the series.
As always, Julia Motyka does a wonderful job with the narration, so if you would prefer the audio version, this one is really good! My thanks to Gigi Pandian for letting me read and listen to advanced copies. If You are new to this series,I will say that there is enough explanation along the way for you to understand what the series is about and get a good feel for the characters. Maybe read the synopsis for each book, if you like, before starting this one, to get a sense of the plot direction.
Either way, whether new to Gigi or established fans of Gigi, You will love this book. It is tame enough for your teens to enjoy, as well. I highly recommend this book and if I could give it 10 stars, I would❣️
Review of advance copy received from Author
I love a mystery set at Halloween- it's the perfect time of year for a little extra spooky, and this series having a dash of paranormal already lends itself perfectly. There's tons of Halloween vibes and I really feel into the season.
I like the amount of history these characters all have. Zoe, obviously has a LOT, but they all have unique backstories, even the potential suspects. And who can't love a gargoyle chef. Having Dorian's POV periodically as he conducts his own investigation enhances the mystery. Clues to a cold case possibly hidden within a cookbook especially appealed to me.
This is a series I'd been interested in reading for awhile and this is actually the first one I've read. There are a couple references to previous books, but nothing that was confusing but did make me want to read more about these events and how all the characters came to be in Zoe's life. Will be catching up on this series!
I like the amount of history these characters all have. Zoe, obviously has a LOT, but they all have unique backstories, even the potential suspects. And who can't love a gargoyle chef. Having Dorian's POV periodically as he conducts his own investigation enhances the mystery. Clues to a cold case possibly hidden within a cookbook especially appealed to me.
This is a series I'd been interested in reading for awhile and this is actually the first one I've read. There are a couple references to previous books, but nothing that was confusing but did make me want to read more about these events and how all the characters came to be in Zoe's life. Will be catching up on this series!
Review of advance copy received from Author
I was lucky to read an advance copy of Gigi Pandian's new Accidental Alchemist mystery, The Alchemist of All Hallows Eve, before publication. I've been a big fan of the series since the first book; in this one the Halloween setting is perfect for a series with an alchemist and a living gargoyle as main characters. As Zoe and her fiance Max look for the perfect house to purchase together, they stumble into two murders - one long unsolved and a new one that may be connected to it. Gargoyle Dorian gets involved, of course, as they try to solve the murders and purchase a house that will include private quarters for Dorian. A psychic and a medium make appearances, very appropriate for the Halloween setting, and it was interesting to learn that the original jack-o-lantern was not a pumpkin but a mangelwurzel. Yes, I had to pause reading to look it up! This is a book that I am happy to recommend, but it will be even better if you've read the series from the beginning.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Whenever there is a new book by Gigi Pandian, I can almost guarantee I will enjoy it and this book was no different. I enjoyed a Halloween visit to Zoe, Max and Dorian and the mystery was so much fun to work out. There were so many twists and turns that even the characters seemed surprised by them! Dorian is my absolute favorite character in this series and he did not disappoint in this book. Imagine a live gargoyle who thinks he is part Julia Child and part Hercule Poirot, he is just a joy to read about! I love how Zoe’s family is coming together too. Sometimes a found family is even better than blood relatives and in this case the found family is wonderful. I hope that Zoe and the gang can enjoy many years of happiness and mysteries together.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for allowing me to read this book. All opinions are my own.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for allowing me to read this book. All opinions are my own.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
The Alchemist of All Hallows Eve: An Accidental Alchemist Mystery
by Gigi Pandian
Zoe and Max find the perfect house, with a lovely orchard and a wonderful detached kitchen for Dorian, chef-gargoyle . . . but local lore says it’s the Murder House, which halts their plans. Can they clear Rufus Hitchcock of suspicion of murger and erase the public stigma on their anticipated “Orchard Cottage”? Strange forces seem at play, a possible new type of alchemy might be involved, and dangers threaten, as Halloween approaches.
I enjoyed the twists and puzzles, the clever discussions, friendships, and the delicious food descriptions. I came late to the series, and the books do stand alone, but I see I’m going to have to go back to the beginning for more visits with my friends. How often does one get to keep company with a living gargoyle?
by Gigi Pandian
Zoe and Max find the perfect house, with a lovely orchard and a wonderful detached kitchen for Dorian, chef-gargoyle . . . but local lore says it’s the Murder House, which halts their plans. Can they clear Rufus Hitchcock of suspicion of murger and erase the public stigma on their anticipated “Orchard Cottage”? Strange forces seem at play, a possible new type of alchemy might be involved, and dangers threaten, as Halloween approaches.
I enjoyed the twists and puzzles, the clever discussions, friendships, and the delicious food descriptions. I came late to the series, and the books do stand alone, but I see I’m going to have to go back to the beginning for more visits with my friends. How often does one get to keep company with a living gargoyle?
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
I love visiting the Portland of Zoe, Max and Dorian. The Alchemist of All Hallows Eve is book 10. Zoe and Max are engaged and looking for a new home they can make their own with a separate space for Dorian, a gargoyle. Zoe finds the perfect place with a yard filled with fruit trees and a garden. Max is not on board because it is known as Murder House and the seller was never charged for the murder the town thinks he committed.
A cold case, the delight of approaching Halloween, a podcaster, a medium…maybe two mediums?, and alchemists.
It was interesting watching Zoe and Dorian look for clues and following breadcrumbs (recipes) from the past.
I like the characters in this series. I normally listen to the audiobooks, but read the ebook pre-release. I enjoy both formats. Thanks to Netgalley and Gargoyle Girl Productions for the chance to experience this story. I think you’ll love it.
A cold case, the delight of approaching Halloween, a podcaster, a medium…maybe two mediums?, and alchemists.
It was interesting watching Zoe and Dorian look for clues and following breadcrumbs (recipes) from the past.
I like the characters in this series. I normally listen to the audiobooks, but read the ebook pre-release. I enjoy both formats. Thanks to Netgalley and Gargoyle Girl Productions for the chance to experience this story. I think you’ll love it.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
I’ve been reading this series for years, and I think this is the best installment so far. Zoe and Max are on the hunt for a house to buy when they come across the perfect house, but of course they have to solve a mystery before they can claim it as their own. I just loved this book with its charming notes about the history of Halloween, the love between Max and Zoe, and let’s not forget the wonderful Dorian with his delectable treats. We get to see some familiar faces and meet some new ones, and I really hope we can see more of them in future books. This is a wonderful installment to a charming series, and I know fans of this series will love this latest. Highly recommend. I was provided a complimentary copy which I voluntarily reviewed.
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