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Potion Masters #2
The Transparency Tonic Lib/E
It has been nine months since Gordy and his friends, Max and Adilene, stopped Esmerelda from destroying B.R.E.W. and the Vessel. Gordy is starting the eighth grade, where he meets another Dram, Sasha Brexil, whose mother is the new President of B.R.E.W. Gordy has also been practicing new brewing techniques, and has even taken some of his potions to school — something expressly forbidden — but when he starts zoning out during practice, he knows something is wrong.
Strange things are also happening at B.R.E.W., because after Wanda confronts the dark Elixirists, she is unexpectedly fired by Mrs. Brexil. And in Greenland, Mezzarix is offered a chance to escape by an old friend, who is working for the mysterious Ms. Bimini. The woman reveals that she needs Mezzarix to replicate an unusual solution known as “Silt.” Mezzarix agrees on one condition: that Ms. Bimini uses the power of Silt to destroy B.R.E.W. forever.
Gordy and his friends continue to work on their potions, but when Adilene learns she will never be able to brew potions — that the only reason she had ever come close was because Gordy was Projecting his ability through her — she is crushed. Against her better judgment, she uses an invisibility potion given to her by her new friend, Cadence, to spy on Gordy.
As Gordy's potion-making talents increase, so does the frequency of his blackouts, which raises a troubling question: What if Mezzarix attacks during one of Gordy's blackouts?
Both B.R.E.W and the Vessel are in danger, and with the potion world in chaos, it's up to Gordy, Max, and Adeline to rally the remaining Potion Masters before it’s too late.
Strange things are also happening at B.R.E.W., because after Wanda confronts the dark Elixirists, she is unexpectedly fired by Mrs. Brexil. And in Greenland, Mezzarix is offered a chance to escape by an old friend, who is working for the mysterious Ms. Bimini. The woman reveals that she needs Mezzarix to replicate an unusual solution known as “Silt.” Mezzarix agrees on one condition: that Ms. Bimini uses the power of Silt to destroy B.R.E.W. forever.
Gordy and his friends continue to work on their potions, but when Adilene learns she will never be able to brew potions — that the only reason she had ever come close was because Gordy was Projecting his ability through her — she is crushed. Against her better judgment, she uses an invisibility potion given to her by her new friend, Cadence, to spy on Gordy.
As Gordy's potion-making talents increase, so does the frequency of his blackouts, which raises a troubling question: What if Mezzarix attacks during one of Gordy's blackouts?
Both B.R.E.W and the Vessel are in danger, and with the potion world in chaos, it's up to Gordy, Max, and Adeline to rally the remaining Potion Masters before it’s too late.
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First published January 16, 2019
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About the author
Frank L. Cole
17 books267 followersFrank L. Cole has lived in such exotic places as the Philippines and Kentucky, and currently lives with his wife and three children out west. While he strived for years to earn his publishing credits, Frank considers sharing his message of “Exercising Your Imagination” to over 100,000 kids across the country as his greatest accomplishment. Frank has been published with Cedar Fort Books, Delacorte Press, and Shadow Mountain Publishing. The Legend of the Last Library is Frank's 15th published book. You can learn more about his writing at frankcolewrites.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 68 reviews
January 16, 2019
Gordy and the gang are back to their adventures in this next installment in the Potion Masters series and you must read Book 1 to understand this one.
These kids are now in 8th grade and a secret world of elixirists has been unveiled. There are so many foes abounding about and new characters emerge, which makes it difficult for Gordy and his friends to know who to trust. This society is mystical and fascinating, especially as danger escalates. The unexpected twists and turns make for a very exciting story and I'm eager for the next book, as this one ends on a cliffhanger, of sorts.
This is a great book for the middle-grade fantasy lover. It's easy to let the imagination have free reign while reading these pages.
Content: mild moments of action/adventure type violence
*I received a complimentary copy. All opinions expressed are my own and were voluntarily given.*
These kids are now in 8th grade and a secret world of elixirists has been unveiled. There are so many foes abounding about and new characters emerge, which makes it difficult for Gordy and his friends to know who to trust. This society is mystical and fascinating, especially as danger escalates. The unexpected twists and turns make for a very exciting story and I'm eager for the next book, as this one ends on a cliffhanger, of sorts.
This is a great book for the middle-grade fantasy lover. It's easy to let the imagination have free reign while reading these pages.
Content: mild moments of action/adventure type violence
*I received a complimentary copy. All opinions expressed are my own and were voluntarily given.*
January 15, 2019
The Transparency Tonic is another wild, exciting ride from Frank Cole. I love Frank's books. They are always full of adventure, clever plots, characters you care about, and fun twists and turns. This book had all that, and more. I loved it! Gordy is one smart kid, with an amazing ability. I love Gordy's mom and Aunt Priss. There are so many exciting things that happen in this book. It is so fun and clever. The bad guys are inventive and there are characters that keep you guessing. The last few chapters of this book had me frantically turning pages to find out it was going to happen.
5 out of 5 stars. So many awesome twists and turns, I loved them all and a fantastic ending.
5 out of 5 stars. So many awesome twists and turns, I loved them all and a fantastic ending.
January 9, 2019
I love finding books that I can enjoy on my own, or reading with my kids. This book is one of those! The first thing that you need to do though is read the first one! Potion Masters: The Eternity Elixir was also great! You’re not going to understand this one without having read that one though.
The main character in this book is Gordy. He’s in eighth grade. And he can make crazy potions that do all sorts of things. One of my favorites is the one that makes the ground turn to quicksand, sucking whoever is on top in and freezing them in the earth in a matter of seconds. That potion would have come in handy many times over the years!
Gordy has all kinds of crazy things happen to him in this one. That’s part of what makes this series so much fun! Some of his problems come from bad guys, but some of the problems are his own making. Gordy is left to figure out a lot of things on his own, making him a character that a lot of boys can learn from and emulate in their own lives.
I liked that this book also has parts where the reader can see though the eyes of other characters. The reader grows to learn Adilene a little bit better because of that. I love that Adilene is able to help Gordy when he needs it the most.
And the reader even gets to see things through the bad guys eyes for part of it! That’s always fun too. It’s fun to be able to yell at characters not to do things, if you know in time what they shouldn’t do. This book though, the reader didn’t know exactly what was going to be happening. Making the whole thing so much fun!
If you’ve got a middle grade boy or girl, they’re going to love this one. It’s really well done and perfect for that age!
The main character in this book is Gordy. He’s in eighth grade. And he can make crazy potions that do all sorts of things. One of my favorites is the one that makes the ground turn to quicksand, sucking whoever is on top in and freezing them in the earth in a matter of seconds. That potion would have come in handy many times over the years!
Gordy has all kinds of crazy things happen to him in this one. That’s part of what makes this series so much fun! Some of his problems come from bad guys, but some of the problems are his own making. Gordy is left to figure out a lot of things on his own, making him a character that a lot of boys can learn from and emulate in their own lives.
I liked that this book also has parts where the reader can see though the eyes of other characters. The reader grows to learn Adilene a little bit better because of that. I love that Adilene is able to help Gordy when he needs it the most.
And the reader even gets to see things through the bad guys eyes for part of it! That’s always fun too. It’s fun to be able to yell at characters not to do things, if you know in time what they shouldn’t do. This book though, the reader didn’t know exactly what was going to be happening. Making the whole thing so much fun!
If you’ve got a middle grade boy or girl, they’re going to love this one. It’s really well done and perfect for that age!
August 6, 2019
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You can view my participation in the blog tour for The Transparency Tonic here at Booked J. I was sent an ARC of this novel from the publisher in exchange for my honest review and participation in the blog tour. This does not change my view in any shape or form.
This review will be spoiler free! However, there are likely to be spoilers for the first book in the Potion Masters series so if you haven't read it yet (WHY?????) now is the time to back away and snag yourself a copy. Seriously, the Potion Masters series is can't-miss-reading material and one of the best middle grade novels in recent memory.
I'm having so much fun with these books!
It's really no secret that I practically (see: absolutely) devoured the first installment to Frank L. Cole's dazzling Potion Masters series late last year. It should come as no shock to you that I found myself highly anticipating the second installment, The Transparency Tonic, and squealed when I reading it no less than seventeen times. Once again, Cole hooks his readers within the first few pages and weaves an incredibly fun read for all ages.
The Transparency Tonic takes place nine months after the events of the previous installment and a lot has changed since then.
Gordy and his best friends, Max and Adilene, have grown comfortable in the fact that they defeated the villainess Esmeralda and saved B.R.E.W. and the Elixirists main source of power: the Vessel. But when a new threat arises, and Gordy begins experiencing peculiar moments, it becomes apparent that something is brewing--and it's not good.
First of all: I loved catching up with the gang! Gordy, Max and Adilene are just as brilliant as usual. Once the action begins, the stakes for B.R.E.W. (the Board of Ruling Elixirists Worldwide) are even higher in The Transparency Tonic. Armed with familiar friends and foes, and new faces sprinkled in, readers are thrown right into the thick of it pretty much from the start.
Throughout the book, we learn several new facts about B.R.E.W. and the perils that may lay ahead for the organization, should the Dark Elixirists manage to take control over life as Gordy knows it.
Frank L. Cole's imagination knows no bounds as he continues to expand the world of B.R.E.W. and take readers on new adventures. The battle between good vs. evil continues to extend in the Potion Masters world and it will leave readers breathless before they can say Fusion Potion.
Each page is cleverly crafted with action, humor, science and more. This winning combination makes The Transparency Tonic impossible to put down. One thing's certain: Cole is only just getting started with Gordy's adventures, and I cannot wait to see what more is in store for the Potion Masters.
You can view my participation in the blog tour for The Transparency Tonic here at Booked J. I was sent an ARC of this novel from the publisher in exchange for my honest review and participation in the blog tour. This does not change my view in any shape or form.
This review will be spoiler free! However, there are likely to be spoilers for the first book in the Potion Masters series so if you haven't read it yet (WHY?????) now is the time to back away and snag yourself a copy. Seriously, the Potion Masters series is can't-miss-reading material and one of the best middle grade novels in recent memory.
I'm having so much fun with these books!
It's really no secret that I practically (see: absolutely) devoured the first installment to Frank L. Cole's dazzling Potion Masters series late last year. It should come as no shock to you that I found myself highly anticipating the second installment, The Transparency Tonic, and squealed when I reading it no less than seventeen times. Once again, Cole hooks his readers within the first few pages and weaves an incredibly fun read for all ages.
The Transparency Tonic takes place nine months after the events of the previous installment and a lot has changed since then.
Gordy and his best friends, Max and Adilene, have grown comfortable in the fact that they defeated the villainess Esmeralda and saved B.R.E.W. and the Elixirists main source of power: the Vessel. But when a new threat arises, and Gordy begins experiencing peculiar moments, it becomes apparent that something is brewing--and it's not good.
First of all: I loved catching up with the gang! Gordy, Max and Adilene are just as brilliant as usual. Once the action begins, the stakes for B.R.E.W. (the Board of Ruling Elixirists Worldwide) are even higher in The Transparency Tonic. Armed with familiar friends and foes, and new faces sprinkled in, readers are thrown right into the thick of it pretty much from the start.
Throughout the book, we learn several new facts about B.R.E.W. and the perils that may lay ahead for the organization, should the Dark Elixirists manage to take control over life as Gordy knows it.
Frank L. Cole's imagination knows no bounds as he continues to expand the world of B.R.E.W. and take readers on new adventures. The battle between good vs. evil continues to extend in the Potion Masters world and it will leave readers breathless before they can say Fusion Potion.
Each page is cleverly crafted with action, humor, science and more. This winning combination makes The Transparency Tonic impossible to put down. One thing's certain: Cole is only just getting started with Gordy's adventures, and I cannot wait to see what more is in store for the Potion Masters.
January 25, 2019
Gordy and the gang are back in The Transparency Tonic and are out to keep B.R.E.W. safe.
It has been about a year since I read the first book and this one was just as enjoyable. I read a lot so it did take me a short time to get back into the swing of the story and the characters, but once I refamiliarized myself it was like I had just finished the first book. The author has a way of weaving a tale and making it enjoyable for all ages, not just the younger crowd. I enjoyed the creativity of the characters when dealing with various situations and the potions that Gordy would come up with was ingenious.
There was one chapter that at first I felt was out of place with the flow of the story until I arrived at the end of the said chapter and then it all made much more sense. I don't want to give away too much of the story but let's just say that things are not as they seem.
There is a young girl that is introduced that just set off all sorts of bad vibes for me. I just had this feeling there was more to her story and what she was there to do than what was portrayed.
I have to say that this book does give me a good chuckle with the antics of Gordy, Max, and Adeline. Even some of the adult characters are a bit mischevious and find themselves in some sticky situations.
The story ends well but does leave it open for future books and a continuation of the Stitser family.
It has been about a year since I read the first book and this one was just as enjoyable. I read a lot so it did take me a short time to get back into the swing of the story and the characters, but once I refamiliarized myself it was like I had just finished the first book. The author has a way of weaving a tale and making it enjoyable for all ages, not just the younger crowd. I enjoyed the creativity of the characters when dealing with various situations and the potions that Gordy would come up with was ingenious.
There was one chapter that at first I felt was out of place with the flow of the story until I arrived at the end of the said chapter and then it all made much more sense. I don't want to give away too much of the story but let's just say that things are not as they seem.
There is a young girl that is introduced that just set off all sorts of bad vibes for me. I just had this feeling there was more to her story and what she was there to do than what was portrayed.
I have to say that this book does give me a good chuckle with the antics of Gordy, Max, and Adeline. Even some of the adult characters are a bit mischevious and find themselves in some sticky situations.
The story ends well but does leave it open for future books and a continuation of the Stitser family.
January 6, 2020
THE TRANSPARENCY TONIC is another thrilling, potion-riddled, ride in the Potion Masters series. Middle grade readers who love quirky characters and plenty of magic and action will love this read!
These characters are so fun! They each have their own unique talents and personalities and it's very easy to connect with them. The potions, mysteries, and action were all exciting and kept things entertaining from beginning to end. It was fun to try to figure out what would happen and the clues about who some of the characters were. It's quite a ride all the way to the end!
My one issue was that I felt Gordy, Max, and Adilene characters acted a little young for their ages. I've got a 5th grader and 7th grader right now and these kids are supposed to be in 7th grade, but felt much more like 5th graders. That was my only qualm though.
In the end, was it what I wished for? I really enjoyed this one and would definitely recommend it to 3rd graders and up.
Content: Clean
Source: I received a complimentary copy from the publisher, which did not require a positive review nor affect it in any way.
These characters are so fun! They each have their own unique talents and personalities and it's very easy to connect with them. The potions, mysteries, and action were all exciting and kept things entertaining from beginning to end. It was fun to try to figure out what would happen and the clues about who some of the characters were. It's quite a ride all the way to the end!
My one issue was that I felt Gordy, Max, and Adilene characters acted a little young for their ages. I've got a 5th grader and 7th grader right now and these kids are supposed to be in 7th grade, but felt much more like 5th graders. That was my only qualm though.
In the end, was it what I wished for? I really enjoyed this one and would definitely recommend it to 3rd graders and up.
Content: Clean
Source: I received a complimentary copy from the publisher, which did not require a positive review nor affect it in any way.
January 9, 2019
I am was so excited to be able to review this book. The first book was soooo good, and I knew it would only get better from there.
Once upon a time there was a boy named Gordy who was an amazing potion maker. His mother saw something in him that both excited her and terrified her. She knew that her boy was special, and that might get him in trouble some day. He has already had to face trials, but this new adventure brings even more.
Mezzarix, is Gordy's grandfather, and he is a master at potion making. He was so good, and so evil he was banished to Greenland for the safety of everyone. Gordy has only met him a few times, and has learned how dangerous he can be. Regardless, Gordy loves him.
During this adventure we get to see a more advanced Gordy start doing things with potions his mother never imagined. Some good, and some good, but not too sure about. Gordy is a master at getting in trouble. Along with his two friends Max and Adilene. They seem to have an eye for where trouble is.
There are people after Gordy and his family and they seem to be constantly on the look out for dangers. This story is full of adventure, intrigue, excitement, and friendship. Who knew family could be so dangerous, and wonderful at the same time.
Follow Gordy and his friends as they face some unsavory people trying to bring him and his family down, along with B.R.E.W. People want to do away with B.R.E.W. and Gordy and his family are trying to keep that from happening. I enjoyed this story so much. I finished the book in a day. I love the setting, the story, and the world this book brings to me. I have to say that I felt like I was right along side Gordy during this whole story. I love it when a book can do this for me. It is a great book for middle schooler's, because Gordy is the same age. I know that my son would really enjoy this series, but I also think its great for people like me who love to dive into the middle grade genre once in a while. They are just so fun.
Cole's writing is amazing, and brings a whole new world to life for you. I hope you take the opportunity to pick this book up. You won't regret it.
Once upon a time there was a boy named Gordy who was an amazing potion maker. His mother saw something in him that both excited her and terrified her. She knew that her boy was special, and that might get him in trouble some day. He has already had to face trials, but this new adventure brings even more.
Mezzarix, is Gordy's grandfather, and he is a master at potion making. He was so good, and so evil he was banished to Greenland for the safety of everyone. Gordy has only met him a few times, and has learned how dangerous he can be. Regardless, Gordy loves him.
During this adventure we get to see a more advanced Gordy start doing things with potions his mother never imagined. Some good, and some good, but not too sure about. Gordy is a master at getting in trouble. Along with his two friends Max and Adilene. They seem to have an eye for where trouble is.
There are people after Gordy and his family and they seem to be constantly on the look out for dangers. This story is full of adventure, intrigue, excitement, and friendship. Who knew family could be so dangerous, and wonderful at the same time.
Follow Gordy and his friends as they face some unsavory people trying to bring him and his family down, along with B.R.E.W. People want to do away with B.R.E.W. and Gordy and his family are trying to keep that from happening. I enjoyed this story so much. I finished the book in a day. I love the setting, the story, and the world this book brings to me. I have to say that I felt like I was right along side Gordy during this whole story. I love it when a book can do this for me. It is a great book for middle schooler's, because Gordy is the same age. I know that my son would really enjoy this series, but I also think its great for people like me who love to dive into the middle grade genre once in a while. They are just so fun.
Cole's writing is amazing, and brings a whole new world to life for you. I hope you take the opportunity to pick this book up. You won't regret it.
January 18, 2019
This. This is a fantastic series. The first book POTION MASTERS: THE EXTERNITY ELIXIR was fantastic. And this next installment is equally as good. The creative potions that are brewed, the twists and turns in the plot, the action level, everything about it is incredible. I had so much fun reading it. I couldn't turn the pages fast enough. My kids are sure to love this one, as will all their friends and anyone else who will take my suggestion. I highly recommend this story and can't wait for the third book.
February 22, 2019
I was eager to pick up this second volume in the Potion Masters series. I found it to be a worthy sequel. In fact, the ending left me wanting the next book immediately. After the trouble that Gordy and his family and friends confronted in the first book, I expected Gordy to be a bit more cautious about the people around him, but like many teenagers, he wasn't. Despite his families precautions in dropping him off at school and trying to protect him from his enemies, Gordy finds himself in a great deal of trouble. It starts seemingly harmlessly with trouble at school, the principal threatens to expell him if he brings potions to school, but the principal's daughter pushes him into coming to a potion party at their house. In the meantime, Gordy struggles to maintain his already existing friendships with Max and Adilene. Adilene is frustrated that she can't mix potions the way Gordy can and as a result befriends a girl as obsesses with potions as herself, but who she knows little about. While Gordy struggles to learn new potion skills, he also struggles to rein in his tendency to follow his feelings rather than actual recipes which B.R.E.W. the governing agency of potion making frowns upon. And while all this is going on, Gordy's grandfather Mezzarix has joined forces with the strange Ms. Bimini and is seeking to break B.R.E.W. once and for all. The book reads fairly quickly, but does require knowledge of previous events. The creative potions and challenges that Gordy faces make for a refreshing series full of unusual twists and turns. This series provides a lot of entertainment and some interesting themes for young fantasy lovers.
April 8, 2019
The writing style is drab and this book could use a better editor. Bumping up the star count as it's meant for a possibly less discerning audience.
Note to self: In the future, check whether a book is YA before volunteering to review it!
Disclaimer: I received this in a giveaway in exchange for a review.
Note to self: In the future, check whether a book is YA before volunteering to review it!
Disclaimer: I received this in a giveaway in exchange for a review.
January 18, 2019
Fun books and wow what an ending! I think I need book 3 right about now. This is really a great series!
January 15, 2021
The moment the Chamber President got expunged was so satisfying! She's almost as bad/ frustrating as Dolores Umbridge!!!!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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March 14, 2024It's been too long since I read book 1 for much of book 2 to make sense. I'm going to set this aside until I after I reread book 1.
October 18, 2018
A most creative book and quite engaging for a wide range of readers. I would gladly recommend The Transparency Tonic to young adults as well as seasoned literacy vets. Interesting, riveting, and well worth the read.
October 1, 2018
I received this book as an advanced readers copy in exchange for my honest review. I have read the first book and enjoyed it very much because it was imaginative and entertaining enough that it was a very quick read and our patrons that I've recommended the book to have enjoyed it as well.
The second book was a lot like the first book being just as imaginative and entertaining as the first book. This will definitely make our young patrons excited and we definitely will be adding this book to our collection and that is why we give this book 5 stars!!
The second book was a lot like the first book being just as imaginative and entertaining as the first book. This will definitely make our young patrons excited and we definitely will be adding this book to our collection and that is why we give this book 5 stars!!
September 19, 2018
Cole, Frank. The Transparency Tonic. Shadow Mountain, 2019.
Gordy is continuing his education as a dram at B.R.E.W., aided by his friends Max and Adilene. His family has moved into a new house, and there is a new principal at Gordy's school as well. The principal's daughter is a dram like Gordy, but Gordy thinks there's something odd about her and her family. Meanwhile, Gordy's grandfather, who has been exiled in a cave in the frozen north, has escaped and is pursuing means to make his escape permanent. Gordy may be the only potion master with the skills to stop his grandfather, but will he be able to make it in time?
This is a delightful adventure tale that fits right in with the first book in this series. The antics of Max will keep kids laughing, and the trio are reminiscent of Harry, Ron, and Hermione with their penchant for getting in trouble and the adventures they find themselves in. The action sequences carry this story and will have readers turning pages to find out what happens next. Give to fans of the Harry Potter series, the many Rick Riordan series, or the Iron Trial.
Recommended for: tweens
Red Flags: some intense action and mild fantasy peril
Overall Rating: 4/5 stars
I received a complimentary copy of this book through Netgalley for the purpose of review.
Gordy is continuing his education as a dram at B.R.E.W., aided by his friends Max and Adilene. His family has moved into a new house, and there is a new principal at Gordy's school as well. The principal's daughter is a dram like Gordy, but Gordy thinks there's something odd about her and her family. Meanwhile, Gordy's grandfather, who has been exiled in a cave in the frozen north, has escaped and is pursuing means to make his escape permanent. Gordy may be the only potion master with the skills to stop his grandfather, but will he be able to make it in time?
This is a delightful adventure tale that fits right in with the first book in this series. The antics of Max will keep kids laughing, and the trio are reminiscent of Harry, Ron, and Hermione with their penchant for getting in trouble and the adventures they find themselves in. The action sequences carry this story and will have readers turning pages to find out what happens next. Give to fans of the Harry Potter series, the many Rick Riordan series, or the Iron Trial.
Recommended for: tweens
Red Flags: some intense action and mild fantasy peril
Overall Rating: 4/5 stars
I received a complimentary copy of this book through Netgalley for the purpose of review.
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October 17, 2022I read this one with my 8yo twins and we all enjoyed it. It’s the second in a series, and I’d suggest reading the first book first. I’m not sure how many more books there will be, but there’s at least one more, and we’re looking forward to reading it.
This series takes middle-grade readers into the potion-making community, a group of talented elixirists and drams (elixirists-in-training) hidden within a normal contemporary world. There are the good potion-makers, organized and governed by B.R.E.W., some downright evil scourges, and a group that’s kind of in-between—not necessarily evil, but not necessarily lawful either. This book expands on the world-building from book one and adds in a host of intriguing characters.
Gordy, the main character, is a dram, and a really good one. I enjoyed watching his progress as he learned and developed his skills. (I think the blind-batching parts were my favorites.) Gordy’s grandpa, Mezzarix, is also a talented elixirist, but he’s working to destroy B.R.E.W. When he escapes from his exile in Greenland, the entire potion community is at risk. And since potions are the basis for much of the world’s technology, that could be very bad for everyone, even for normal people. Side note: Complicating everything is Mrs. Brexil, the new head of B.R.E.W. She’s not afraid of cruel and unusual punishment, she butts heads with Gordy’s mom, and Gordy’s skill makes her nervous.
This book isn’t actually released yet. The author hosted a potion-naming contest on his Facebook page, and I told my kids to suggest a few. One of theirs won, and we got a signed ARC.
This series takes middle-grade readers into the potion-making community, a group of talented elixirists and drams (elixirists-in-training) hidden within a normal contemporary world. There are the good potion-makers, organized and governed by B.R.E.W., some downright evil scourges, and a group that’s kind of in-between—not necessarily evil, but not necessarily lawful either. This book expands on the world-building from book one and adds in a host of intriguing characters.
Gordy, the main character, is a dram, and a really good one. I enjoyed watching his progress as he learned and developed his skills. (I think the blind-batching parts were my favorites.) Gordy’s grandpa, Mezzarix, is also a talented elixirist, but he’s working to destroy B.R.E.W. When he escapes from his exile in Greenland, the entire potion community is at risk. And since potions are the basis for much of the world’s technology, that could be very bad for everyone, even for normal people. Side note: Complicating everything is Mrs. Brexil, the new head of B.R.E.W. She’s not afraid of cruel and unusual punishment, she butts heads with Gordy’s mom, and Gordy’s skill makes her nervous.
This book isn’t actually released yet. The author hosted a potion-naming contest on his Facebook page, and I told my kids to suggest a few. One of theirs won, and we got a signed ARC.
September 4, 2018
Gordy is an elixirist in training. He has been granted special privileges to have two lab assistants. His mom is his adviser at B.R.E.W, at least until she is suddenly demoted by her new boss. Aunt Priss hasn’t been seen in a long time. And, the new principal and his daughter (Sasha Brexil) could be a problem. Especially, since Sasha is also an elixirist in training. B.R.E.W.’s enemies seem to be mounting a war with Gordy and his family stuck in the middle. Could Gordy’s exceptional abilities get him exsponged of his powers forever? And, who is Adeline’s mysterious new friend? This is a wonderful middle grade fantasy series that keeps getting better. It is a great match for fans of Brandon Mull, Leven Thumps, and Harry Potter. Grades 3 – 8.
September 11, 2018
"This is book 2 in the series. I enjoyed this as much as I enjoyed the 1st book. This is a quick paced book and develops quickly. I do recommend reading book 1 before reading this one.
I received this from NetGalley in exchange for my honest review."
I received this from NetGalley in exchange for my honest review."
March 29, 2025
The Transparency Tonic
On the first day of the eight-grade, before going to school Gordy tests out a new potion that Max has named “The Trapper Keeper” that turns his stuffed elephant invisible. At school, he meets a new student named Sasha that seems to know all about him. She’s also a Dram and offers her friendship by inviting him to a special, welcome, back to school party where she says there will be other Drams at the school. We learn that this is Gordy’s formal training year. He, Max, and Adelle will meet with his mother at B.R.E.W. on Fridays.
Meanwhile, in the Forbidden Zone, Mezzarox sits working on a potion that he’s been trying to perfect for ninth months. Out of the blue, he gets a visit from Ravian McFarland who has a proposition. Ravoma introduces him to a potion he isn’t familiar with called Stilt. It has the ability to get him past all the traps B.R.E,W set up. He wants Mezzarix to leave with him so he can concoct him a replica potion and in turn his friend will find a way to free him.
On his first training, Gordy is given several potions to decipher the contents. Then he’s told to do three potions. As the tests are about to end, a security alarm goes off. Hoffman arrives and informs them that Level Zero was breached. Someone entered into the Vessel Room. Gordy’s mom thinks it might have just been a false alarm. Even so, the Vessel was moved to an unknown location. Gordy tosses Max one of the potions for protection but suddenly he finds himself sprawled on the floor. He says he was shoved but neither Gordy or Adelene claim to be the one who did it. Because the potion spilled he know feels like he was attacked by ants.
Adilene while making cupcakes sees a strange man in a van in Gordy’s old yard. Her niece introduces hserlf as Cadence. It doesn’t take long to find out she’s a Dram. Adilene invites her back to the house to make cupcakes and confesses she’s not a potion maker but this doesn’t bother Cadence. She hears her dog barking and then sees Cadence’s uncle again outside. Candance says she has to leave and then they make plans to hang out again. But when she looks Gordy’s front door is cracked slightly.
Mr. Brexil calls Gordy into his office and gives him a warning not to bring not to bring any potions to school. There have already been tons of accidents at campus. Max and Adilene stop by for an impromptu brewing session. Adilene really wants to be a Dram like Godry. So this session Gody watches *them* make potions. He suspects tho that they just don’t have whatever it is inside them. This is confirmed when Max makes his potion letter perfect and Adilene’s comes out the right color and consistency and neither work. But who knows maybe one day Adilene will he thinks.
Lolly Bimini wants Mezzarix to help her return to the island she was banished from. She’ll them help him over throw B. R.E.W and take the vessel. Not only this but there’s a fountain on her island that produces Stilt. Once he helps her return, he can get all the Stilt he desires. Mezzarix tries to play harball but proposes alternatives, but Bimini shows him she’s not to be taken lightly.
Burke and Yelpzin plan to snatch up Bolton but instead, they see Gordy and go after him. One of their men is melted into a tree trunk by one of Gordy’s potions. But Gordy is trapped by Burke and Yeltzin and is then captured. They take Gordy to their hideout and Gordy finds out they’re being guided by Esmerelda whose hiding out in Bawdry’s body. But then things turn around again when “Gordy” with the aid of his potions turns out to be Wanda and she takes down Burke, Esmerelda (with the Iceball Potion), and Yeltzin. While working on potions with his friends Gordy hears a noise downstairs, It turns out to be Aunt Pris who has brewed a potion (The Cacophonous Compound). He also gets “The Sloop Solution” in a trade (which is a silver ring that turns into a skateboard). Gordy in turn gives Pris the “Trapper Keeper Potion” which doesn’t make things disappear it forms a quick sand. Pris explains what happened with his mother. Pris tells Gordy about the area known as the Swigs which are outside of B.R.E.W’s control where trades happen and the location changes.
Wanda comes home and says the new Director of B. R.E.W made her resign. She also has some concerns now that she won’t be able to train Gordy. They’ll be sure to be watching him closely and testing him harder to see if he might be a potential threat like his mother. For now, his mom advises him to play it low-key at school and not get into any trouble with his friends, Sasha gives Gordy instructions on he party. The major one is don’t tell his parents about the brewing (her mother’s idea). Later that night, Gordy is trying to brew one portion but he ends up brewing a mangling potion. In other words, he does a “Blind Brew”. Candence hangs out with Adelene again and they decide to brew a potion. Only Adilene finds out Cadence isn’t a DRAM. Cadence tho gives her a potion that she says can take her anywhere (into Gordy’s house, into BREW). Adeline thinks this is suspicious but Cadence says she’s giving it to her because she wants her to be her friend. Adilene doesn’t try it then and Cadence says let her know when she decidss to try it so they can try it together. Then she leaves.with her uncle.
Mezzark successfully is able to replicate some vials of Stilts, but shortly after had an episode which leaves him on the floor writhing in pain. Bimini threatens to call in Gordy (to take his place or either motivate him)but he won’t allow it. He tells Ravina he already has measures in place to protect him. Sasha and Gordy compete at the party. Sasha makes a Ragaszto Ragout potion but Gordy Blind Batches something he calls Gravity Gouda *that weighs you down*. Sasha presents Gordy with an Elixerst Satchel. Mrs. Brexil offers her husband to take him home, but he says he’d rather ride his bike. When he opens the door, his mother is standing on the other side. He finds out Mrs. Brexil is the new director at B. R. E. W. On the way home, Gordy gets a lecture (Max is there because he tried to sneak inside the party and ended up in the lake and Gordy’s mom found him on the side of the road) and she says he’s been issued the Sequester Strap (which won’t allow him to set foot inside their lab).
Esmerelda is paid a visit by Mrs. Brexil and two officials. She performs the ExSponged ritual. She finds herself on an island never able to brew again. At school, Sasha tries to sit with Gordy, Adilene, and Max but they get up and try to walk away. They end up having a fight about who’ll be Gordy’s lab partner for training. Adilene’s bubble gets burst because Sasha tells Max he’ll need expert a DRAM to perform “Dual Potions” and what Adilene did was just Gordy projecting his skills on her. Cadence shows up at the school, baits Adilene with Gordy’s lack of support, and convinces her to take the potion.
Gordy hears voices in his home and finds Max. They find the Sequester Strap undone and Adilene and Cadence in the lab. He kicks Cadence out. Adeliene tries to leave with her but Cadence tells her to stay. Adilene tells them about the potion and her new friend. She and Max get into an argument over how much of a friend she is and how dumb it is to take a potion from a stranger. All of a sudden the rock Max took from B. R. E. W’s ground makes Adilene (whose invisible) transparent and glows. But after this, an upset Adilene (whose accused Gordy of want5ing Max as her parents) has left.
Gordy’s mom test the rock and says it's like nothing she’s seen. She’ll have to give it to Bolter. She’s not allowed near the Vessel or B.R.E.W but it might be alien. Gordy wanders if she found out anything else about who broke in and then then tells her about Adilene and Cadence’s invisibility potion. His mom says she’s never heard of a potion that can do that but she’ll ask around. Zelda is the new trainer. She gives them a test of how to get out of the locked room with pencil shavings, dirt, and a gum wrapper. With those basic ingredients, he’s able to open the door, but it also destroys the walls of B. R. E. W/ As the a;;s fa;; and je and
Thanks to Bolter’s borrowed trampoline potion Max and Gordy survive the fall. All three make it away from B.R.E.A and the swarm of dark Exlirist and head for the Swigs. Eventually, they reach Tobias McFarland’s house in the Swigs. That night, Gordy tries to “Sleep brew” a potion he finds in a secret compartment in his satchel but is caught by Tobias. The potion is used to free someone. Gordy’s mom is disappointed but Tobias says he wasn’t making it. He was adding to it. They figure out that this potion links him to Mezzarix and is the reason for the “Blind Batching”. As soon as it weakens he’ll have to return to his cave .. or die. Gordy realizes that his grandfather wanted him to strengthen the potion. Priss and Wanda again argue over Mrs. Brexil’s involvement. But Gordy says what’s important is they stop them. Gordy has an idea to watch the security footage. With the help of the rock he sees Cadence in the hallway.
Adeline sneaks back into Gordy’s home and finds Carlyle and Cadene searching for “the keystone”. Carlyle finds her but Wana and Priss find him and take him out with a potion. Then Cadence takes them down. With the help of the Cacophy Potion, Max and Gordy are able to distract Caryle and then wrestle him to the ground. They tie Cadene and her uncle to chairs and demand answers but Cadence says they’ll get none. It comes out that Cadence is there recruit Scourges to help her get back to her home. She needed Mezzarix to help her replicate more of the Stilt. She says she needs to get back home so she can be a leader of her people. But Gordy’s mom realizes she’s been banished. She offers Wanda the same offer as she did Mezzerix. She then says her real name is Mrs. Bimini snf transforms. Then she says Carlyle is her SON. A message goes out that Mezzarix has been captured and a memory elxer will will be used to erase all mentions of the incident. They all realize Brexil will probably try to ExSponge him.
Gordy, his mom, and Pris take a drop of the potion and they sneak into the Brexil’s. Gordy finds the Brexils tied up. Everyone else is tied up downstairs (including Mezzarix(, Ravina ambushed them. Gordy is able to concoct a potion with the limited supply of broken potions on the floor that chains Ravina. Mrs, Brexil is about to banish Mezzarix when it's revealed Zelda is working with Mezzaix. She frees him, Mezzarix ExScrounges Mrs. Brexil, and they escape with the Vessel, Gordy agrees to meet with Sasha to help her brew the potion to track down the Vessel. At the end of the book, it’s revealed Stilt comes from The Fountain of Youth and Mezzarix, Ravina, and Zelda have spotted the island.
My Thoughts:
I liked those one better than Eternity Elixer. Sasha was a good addition to the mix. I’m not quite sure what to make of her. I’m skeptical to believe that she’s 100 percent sincere. Cause the minute I do believe that in the next book, she’ll have ulterior motives for helping Gordy and I really do not like being deceived by even a character. But this is a good thing I think it’ll keep things interesting. Just like we’re never really sure about Mezzarix. Mezzarix is a “gray” character also. It was interesting that Cadence and Sasha worse yellow dresses which made me think Cadence and Sasha were the same person initially. I definitely wasn’t expecting Cadence to be Mrs. Bimini and her son to be Uncle Carlyle. That was an interesting twist!
Rating: 6
On the first day of the eight-grade, before going to school Gordy tests out a new potion that Max has named “The Trapper Keeper” that turns his stuffed elephant invisible. At school, he meets a new student named Sasha that seems to know all about him. She’s also a Dram and offers her friendship by inviting him to a special, welcome, back to school party where she says there will be other Drams at the school. We learn that this is Gordy’s formal training year. He, Max, and Adelle will meet with his mother at B.R.E.W. on Fridays.
Meanwhile, in the Forbidden Zone, Mezzarox sits working on a potion that he’s been trying to perfect for ninth months. Out of the blue, he gets a visit from Ravian McFarland who has a proposition. Ravoma introduces him to a potion he isn’t familiar with called Stilt. It has the ability to get him past all the traps B.R.E,W set up. He wants Mezzarix to leave with him so he can concoct him a replica potion and in turn his friend will find a way to free him.
On his first training, Gordy is given several potions to decipher the contents. Then he’s told to do three potions. As the tests are about to end, a security alarm goes off. Hoffman arrives and informs them that Level Zero was breached. Someone entered into the Vessel Room. Gordy’s mom thinks it might have just been a false alarm. Even so, the Vessel was moved to an unknown location. Gordy tosses Max one of the potions for protection but suddenly he finds himself sprawled on the floor. He says he was shoved but neither Gordy or Adelene claim to be the one who did it. Because the potion spilled he know feels like he was attacked by ants.
Adilene while making cupcakes sees a strange man in a van in Gordy’s old yard. Her niece introduces hserlf as Cadence. It doesn’t take long to find out she’s a Dram. Adilene invites her back to the house to make cupcakes and confesses she’s not a potion maker but this doesn’t bother Cadence. She hears her dog barking and then sees Cadence’s uncle again outside. Candance says she has to leave and then they make plans to hang out again. But when she looks Gordy’s front door is cracked slightly.
Mr. Brexil calls Gordy into his office and gives him a warning not to bring not to bring any potions to school. There have already been tons of accidents at campus. Max and Adilene stop by for an impromptu brewing session. Adilene really wants to be a Dram like Godry. So this session Gody watches *them* make potions. He suspects tho that they just don’t have whatever it is inside them. This is confirmed when Max makes his potion letter perfect and Adilene’s comes out the right color and consistency and neither work. But who knows maybe one day Adilene will he thinks.
Lolly Bimini wants Mezzarix to help her return to the island she was banished from. She’ll them help him over throw B. R.E.W and take the vessel. Not only this but there’s a fountain on her island that produces Stilt. Once he helps her return, he can get all the Stilt he desires. Mezzarix tries to play harball but proposes alternatives, but Bimini shows him she’s not to be taken lightly.
Burke and Yelpzin plan to snatch up Bolton but instead, they see Gordy and go after him. One of their men is melted into a tree trunk by one of Gordy’s potions. But Gordy is trapped by Burke and Yeltzin and is then captured. They take Gordy to their hideout and Gordy finds out they’re being guided by Esmerelda whose hiding out in Bawdry’s body. But then things turn around again when “Gordy” with the aid of his potions turns out to be Wanda and she takes down Burke, Esmerelda (with the Iceball Potion), and Yeltzin. While working on potions with his friends Gordy hears a noise downstairs, It turns out to be Aunt Pris who has brewed a potion (The Cacophonous Compound). He also gets “The Sloop Solution” in a trade (which is a silver ring that turns into a skateboard). Gordy in turn gives Pris the “Trapper Keeper Potion” which doesn’t make things disappear it forms a quick sand. Pris explains what happened with his mother. Pris tells Gordy about the area known as the Swigs which are outside of B.R.E.W’s control where trades happen and the location changes.
Wanda comes home and says the new Director of B. R.E.W made her resign. She also has some concerns now that she won’t be able to train Gordy. They’ll be sure to be watching him closely and testing him harder to see if he might be a potential threat like his mother. For now, his mom advises him to play it low-key at school and not get into any trouble with his friends, Sasha gives Gordy instructions on he party. The major one is don’t tell his parents about the brewing (her mother’s idea). Later that night, Gordy is trying to brew one portion but he ends up brewing a mangling potion. In other words, he does a “Blind Brew”. Candence hangs out with Adelene again and they decide to brew a potion. Only Adilene finds out Cadence isn’t a DRAM. Cadence tho gives her a potion that she says can take her anywhere (into Gordy’s house, into BREW). Adeline thinks this is suspicious but Cadence says she’s giving it to her because she wants her to be her friend. Adilene doesn’t try it then and Cadence says let her know when she decidss to try it so they can try it together. Then she leaves.with her uncle.
Mezzark successfully is able to replicate some vials of Stilts, but shortly after had an episode which leaves him on the floor writhing in pain. Bimini threatens to call in Gordy (to take his place or either motivate him)but he won’t allow it. He tells Ravina he already has measures in place to protect him. Sasha and Gordy compete at the party. Sasha makes a Ragaszto Ragout potion but Gordy Blind Batches something he calls Gravity Gouda *that weighs you down*. Sasha presents Gordy with an Elixerst Satchel. Mrs. Brexil offers her husband to take him home, but he says he’d rather ride his bike. When he opens the door, his mother is standing on the other side. He finds out Mrs. Brexil is the new director at B. R. E. W. On the way home, Gordy gets a lecture (Max is there because he tried to sneak inside the party and ended up in the lake and Gordy’s mom found him on the side of the road) and she says he’s been issued the Sequester Strap (which won’t allow him to set foot inside their lab).
Esmerelda is paid a visit by Mrs. Brexil and two officials. She performs the ExSponged ritual. She finds herself on an island never able to brew again. At school, Sasha tries to sit with Gordy, Adilene, and Max but they get up and try to walk away. They end up having a fight about who’ll be Gordy’s lab partner for training. Adilene’s bubble gets burst because Sasha tells Max he’ll need expert a DRAM to perform “Dual Potions” and what Adilene did was just Gordy projecting his skills on her. Cadence shows up at the school, baits Adilene with Gordy’s lack of support, and convinces her to take the potion.
Gordy hears voices in his home and finds Max. They find the Sequester Strap undone and Adilene and Cadence in the lab. He kicks Cadence out. Adeliene tries to leave with her but Cadence tells her to stay. Adilene tells them about the potion and her new friend. She and Max get into an argument over how much of a friend she is and how dumb it is to take a potion from a stranger. All of a sudden the rock Max took from B. R. E. W’s ground makes Adilene (whose invisible) transparent and glows. But after this, an upset Adilene (whose accused Gordy of want5ing Max as her parents) has left.
Gordy’s mom test the rock and says it's like nothing she’s seen. She’ll have to give it to Bolter. She’s not allowed near the Vessel or B.R.E.W but it might be alien. Gordy wanders if she found out anything else about who broke in and then then tells her about Adilene and Cadence’s invisibility potion. His mom says she’s never heard of a potion that can do that but she’ll ask around. Zelda is the new trainer. She gives them a test of how to get out of the locked room with pencil shavings, dirt, and a gum wrapper. With those basic ingredients, he’s able to open the door, but it also destroys the walls of B. R. E. W/ As the a;;s fa;; and je and
Thanks to Bolter’s borrowed trampoline potion Max and Gordy survive the fall. All three make it away from B.R.E.A and the swarm of dark Exlirist and head for the Swigs. Eventually, they reach Tobias McFarland’s house in the Swigs. That night, Gordy tries to “Sleep brew” a potion he finds in a secret compartment in his satchel but is caught by Tobias. The potion is used to free someone. Gordy’s mom is disappointed but Tobias says he wasn’t making it. He was adding to it. They figure out that this potion links him to Mezzarix and is the reason for the “Blind Batching”. As soon as it weakens he’ll have to return to his cave .. or die. Gordy realizes that his grandfather wanted him to strengthen the potion. Priss and Wanda again argue over Mrs. Brexil’s involvement. But Gordy says what’s important is they stop them. Gordy has an idea to watch the security footage. With the help of the rock he sees Cadence in the hallway.
Adeline sneaks back into Gordy’s home and finds Carlyle and Cadene searching for “the keystone”. Carlyle finds her but Wana and Priss find him and take him out with a potion. Then Cadence takes them down. With the help of the Cacophy Potion, Max and Gordy are able to distract Caryle and then wrestle him to the ground. They tie Cadene and her uncle to chairs and demand answers but Cadence says they’ll get none. It comes out that Cadence is there recruit Scourges to help her get back to her home. She needed Mezzarix to help her replicate more of the Stilt. She says she needs to get back home so she can be a leader of her people. But Gordy’s mom realizes she’s been banished. She offers Wanda the same offer as she did Mezzerix. She then says her real name is Mrs. Bimini snf transforms. Then she says Carlyle is her SON. A message goes out that Mezzarix has been captured and a memory elxer will will be used to erase all mentions of the incident. They all realize Brexil will probably try to ExSponge him.
Gordy, his mom, and Pris take a drop of the potion and they sneak into the Brexil’s. Gordy finds the Brexils tied up. Everyone else is tied up downstairs (including Mezzarix(, Ravina ambushed them. Gordy is able to concoct a potion with the limited supply of broken potions on the floor that chains Ravina. Mrs, Brexil is about to banish Mezzarix when it's revealed Zelda is working with Mezzaix. She frees him, Mezzarix ExScrounges Mrs. Brexil, and they escape with the Vessel, Gordy agrees to meet with Sasha to help her brew the potion to track down the Vessel. At the end of the book, it’s revealed Stilt comes from The Fountain of Youth and Mezzarix, Ravina, and Zelda have spotted the island.
My Thoughts:
I liked those one better than Eternity Elixer. Sasha was a good addition to the mix. I’m not quite sure what to make of her. I’m skeptical to believe that she’s 100 percent sincere. Cause the minute I do believe that in the next book, she’ll have ulterior motives for helping Gordy and I really do not like being deceived by even a character. But this is a good thing I think it’ll keep things interesting. Just like we’re never really sure about Mezzarix. Mezzarix is a “gray” character also. It was interesting that Cadence and Sasha worse yellow dresses which made me think Cadence and Sasha were the same person initially. I definitely wasn’t expecting Cadence to be Mrs. Bimini and her son to be Uncle Carlyle. That was an interesting twist!
Rating: 6
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 19, 2019
My name is Adilene, and I really hope to become a Dram like my friend Drew. My new friend Cadence may be able to help, although she hasn't made potions herself. I really don't know that much about her and don't know where she came from. Drew's mother has been fired from B.R.E.W., and he's been banned from her basement lab. Drew has Blind Batched some dangerous potions but doesn't remember doing it, and his grandfather Mezzarix is missing from the Forbidden Zone. What's going on?! Actually, I don't know much at all, since Drew really upset me. I don't think he realizes how much becoming a Dram means to me. I haven't spoken to him in a week, and Cadence has been helping me instead. My gut tells me this is wrong, but she's convinced me to try Silt. It'll be fun to become invisible for awhile, but I'm really uncomfortable sneaking into Drew's lab. Something's not right.
I'm don't think you need to read The Eternity Elixir first to enjoy this one, but it won't hurt. This book had a lot more going on than the first one, as Cadence was the mystery character throughout. She appeared out of nowhere, was overly eager to help Adilene, and had a special interest in Gordy and his family. Her true identity and intentions were unknown until the plot neared its end. B.R.E.W. had a new leader with questionable methods, the Vessel was under attack, and a team of evil characters was forming around Mezzarix. Then Gordy had his own issues with B.R.E.W., as its new leader feared he had unusual and dangerous abilities. As a result of all these things, this book was very engaging and entertaining. It had mystery, adventure, and action, as the plot branched out into new conflicts. The potions were still the center of everything. Actually, the potions have reminded me of the magic found in The Unwanteds series. The potions and magic transform everyday objects into tools or weapons. Gordy's ability to sense ingredients was already uncommon, but his ability to create potions without recipes was extremely rare and unpredictable. Overall, I recommend you give this series a shot, although the next book hasn't been released yet. Bummer.
I'm don't think you need to read The Eternity Elixir first to enjoy this one, but it won't hurt. This book had a lot more going on than the first one, as Cadence was the mystery character throughout. She appeared out of nowhere, was overly eager to help Adilene, and had a special interest in Gordy and his family. Her true identity and intentions were unknown until the plot neared its end. B.R.E.W. had a new leader with questionable methods, the Vessel was under attack, and a team of evil characters was forming around Mezzarix. Then Gordy had his own issues with B.R.E.W., as its new leader feared he had unusual and dangerous abilities. As a result of all these things, this book was very engaging and entertaining. It had mystery, adventure, and action, as the plot branched out into new conflicts. The potions were still the center of everything. Actually, the potions have reminded me of the magic found in The Unwanteds series. The potions and magic transform everyday objects into tools or weapons. Gordy's ability to sense ingredients was already uncommon, but his ability to create potions without recipes was extremely rare and unpredictable. Overall, I recommend you give this series a shot, although the next book hasn't been released yet. Bummer.
January 15, 2019
Life has somewhat calmed down for Gordy and his friends since stopping Esmeralda from overthrowing B.R.E.W. (Board of Ruling Elixirists Worldwide). Because of his potion-mixing skills, Gordy is working on becoming an Elixirist with the help of his two best friends, Max and Adilene. While concocting his potions, Gordy goes into a hypnotic state or “Blind Batching” and unknowingly creates some destructive brews. Because of this, Gordy’s mother loses her job at B.R.E.W. and it’s Chamber President eventually puts a warrant out for Gordy’s arrest.
Cole’s second book in the Potion Master’s series is a thrilling read full of dilemmas and betrayals, but it is also a story about the power of consequences. All Gordy wants to do is hone his natural potion-making skills to become a master Elixirist. While trying to impress the snotty daughter of the new Chamber President by Blind Batching, his actions lead to disastrous consequences. Like many who are naturally gifted, Gordy’s decision to Blind Batch is two fold: to test his limits and gain acceptance from others. Even though Gordy is confident in his skills, it doesn’t mean he’s confident emotionally. Gordy’s closest friendships get sorely tested as he rises too quickly from exploiting his talents. Luckily, Gordy doesn’t fall too far from grace because the consequences of his actions directly affect his family. His unshakeable love for them and his friends’ loyalty help Gordy realign his priorities for using his gifts. This well-written and well-developed book will have readers anxiously anticipating Cole’s next book in his Potion Masters’ series.
(Review found on Childrens' Compass Chronicle: childrenscompasschronicle.blogspot.com)
Cole’s second book in the Potion Master’s series is a thrilling read full of dilemmas and betrayals, but it is also a story about the power of consequences. All Gordy wants to do is hone his natural potion-making skills to become a master Elixirist. While trying to impress the snotty daughter of the new Chamber President by Blind Batching, his actions lead to disastrous consequences. Like many who are naturally gifted, Gordy’s decision to Blind Batch is two fold: to test his limits and gain acceptance from others. Even though Gordy is confident in his skills, it doesn’t mean he’s confident emotionally. Gordy’s closest friendships get sorely tested as he rises too quickly from exploiting his talents. Luckily, Gordy doesn’t fall too far from grace because the consequences of his actions directly affect his family. His unshakeable love for them and his friends’ loyalty help Gordy realign his priorities for using his gifts. This well-written and well-developed book will have readers anxiously anticipating Cole’s next book in his Potion Masters’ series.
(Review found on Childrens' Compass Chronicle: childrenscompasschronicle.blogspot.com)
February 7, 2019
It has been almost a year since Gordy and his friends helped save B.R.E.W. and the vessel. Gordy, Max, and Adilene are now in 8th grade. Things are going well until Gordy and Max are paired up for school and Adilene feels left out Until she finds someone that says they can help her become a potion master on her own.
Gordy is trying to push his ability and starts zoning out and Blind Batching. But this practice is frowned on and Gordy’s mother gets into trouble. Things don’t go well for Gordy either.
Mezzarix has found a way to escape the Forbidden Zone. There is a weapon that Mezzarix could use to stop B.R.E.W. once and for all. There are also some new faces that give Gordy and his friend a bad vibe. They don’t know who to really trust anymore.
I love The Transparency Tonic even more that The Eternity Elixir. There is so much going on, new faces that we don’t know if we can trust or not and Gordy trying to advance his abilities yet finding himself in trouble.
These stories are so easy to get into, they will have you flipping pages like crazy to see what happens next, and will leave you wanting the next book. I liked how Gordy was trying to push himself to be the best but then he has to accept the consequences of his actions. They don’t just affect him but those that are close to him too.
I recommend reading the series in order otherwise you will be a little lost. But this is a great series and one that would be a wonderful addition to anyone’s shelves.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. I voluntarily chose to read and post an honest review.
Gordy is trying to push his ability and starts zoning out and Blind Batching. But this practice is frowned on and Gordy’s mother gets into trouble. Things don’t go well for Gordy either.
Mezzarix has found a way to escape the Forbidden Zone. There is a weapon that Mezzarix could use to stop B.R.E.W. once and for all. There are also some new faces that give Gordy and his friend a bad vibe. They don’t know who to really trust anymore.
I love The Transparency Tonic even more that The Eternity Elixir. There is so much going on, new faces that we don’t know if we can trust or not and Gordy trying to advance his abilities yet finding himself in trouble.
These stories are so easy to get into, they will have you flipping pages like crazy to see what happens next, and will leave you wanting the next book. I liked how Gordy was trying to push himself to be the best but then he has to accept the consequences of his actions. They don’t just affect him but those that are close to him too.
I recommend reading the series in order otherwise you will be a little lost. But this is a great series and one that would be a wonderful addition to anyone’s shelves.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. I voluntarily chose to read and post an honest review.
April 29, 2019
I did not like The Transparency Tonic as well as I liked The Eternity Elixir. This book was darker with more evil triumphing over good. The book is well-written and Frank Cole continues the story started in the first book. He continues to develop the three main characters of Gordy, Max and Adilene. There is some fore-shadowing when a new character enters the picture and convinces Adilene to behave in a way she wouldn't have previously. There are several new characters in the book and at times the reader, like Gordy, isn't sure who he can trust. Readers may be disappointed in some of the outcomes of the story but the Epilogue leaves us hope that there will be a book three and situations will improve.
Area of Potential Concern
The potions in this book are somewhat like "witch's brews" - combining strange ingredients in order to make something happen. There is also the mystical/magical connection between Gordy and his Grandfather - influencing Gordy to behave in a manner he cannot explain. Evil is also a power which appears to be triumphing throughout the book. These concepts may make the book inappropriate for some audiences.
I would not be able to place The Eternity Elixir in my K-12 Christian School library due to these concerns. If you have students who enjoy this type of fantasy, I encourage you to read the book your self to determine if it is appropriate for your audience.
I received a complimentary copy of The Transparency Tonic from Shadow Mountain. A review was not required.
Area of Potential Concern
The potions in this book are somewhat like "witch's brews" - combining strange ingredients in order to make something happen. There is also the mystical/magical connection between Gordy and his Grandfather - influencing Gordy to behave in a manner he cannot explain. Evil is also a power which appears to be triumphing throughout the book. These concepts may make the book inappropriate for some audiences.
I would not be able to place The Eternity Elixir in my K-12 Christian School library due to these concerns. If you have students who enjoy this type of fantasy, I encourage you to read the book your self to determine if it is appropriate for your audience.
I received a complimentary copy of The Transparency Tonic from Shadow Mountain. A review was not required.
October 2, 2019
Book 2 finds Gordy 9 months older, a bit more introspective, and up to his neck in issues with potion brewing and problems with B.R.E.W. Gordy's family has relocated to a home after his previous
home was destroyed in book 1. He has chosen Max as his 'lab partner' to assist him in training. This choice has made Adilene feel increasingly isolated leaving her vulnerable to a new threat.
The threat comes in the form of a shape shifting person who is powerful enough to entice both Mezzerix Rock (Gordy's Grandfather) and Adilene. She is a being who uses Silt, a magical substance
capable of many things -- among them offering ways to destroy B.R.E.W.
Perhaps BREW should be destroyed, the new Chamber President, who is also the mother of Sasha, a current thorn in Gordy's side, had become increasingly paranoid and thus dictatorial. Very soon, Wanda has been fired from B.R.E.W. and her family made outcasts.
In all coming of age myths, the hero must go underground to meet challenges of the Underworld.
Cole's Underground is called the Swig. This setting is reminiscent of a Dark Mirror version of a carnival complete with questionable eating places. Creamed ham anyone?
The shattering climax ends with a traitor, and Gordy's grandfather poised to complete his anarchistic plot. While the characters remain stubbornly stereotypical (Max in particular should have comedy relief tattooed on his forehead) the action is sufficient to keep a reader engaged.
Recommended
home was destroyed in book 1. He has chosen Max as his 'lab partner' to assist him in training. This choice has made Adilene feel increasingly isolated leaving her vulnerable to a new threat.
The threat comes in the form of a shape shifting person who is powerful enough to entice both Mezzerix Rock (Gordy's Grandfather) and Adilene. She is a being who uses Silt, a magical substance
capable of many things -- among them offering ways to destroy B.R.E.W.
Perhaps BREW should be destroyed, the new Chamber President, who is also the mother of Sasha, a current thorn in Gordy's side, had become increasingly paranoid and thus dictatorial. Very soon, Wanda has been fired from B.R.E.W. and her family made outcasts.
In all coming of age myths, the hero must go underground to meet challenges of the Underworld.
Cole's Underground is called the Swig. This setting is reminiscent of a Dark Mirror version of a carnival complete with questionable eating places. Creamed ham anyone?
The shattering climax ends with a traitor, and Gordy's grandfather poised to complete his anarchistic plot. While the characters remain stubbornly stereotypical (Max in particular should have comedy relief tattooed on his forehead) the action is sufficient to keep a reader engaged.
Recommended
February 2, 2019
Another exciting ride full of twists and turns from Frank Cole. Potions was my favorite part of most magical books so I was so excited to read the first Potion Masters book. The second is even better! Full of adventure, daring plots, complex characters, and lots of fun.
Gordy’s amazing talents are explored in more depth and a dark side to his Blind Batching is shown. The villains are creepy and challenge the whole gang’s growing skills. With disappointments, betrayals, and invisible enemies, there is one danger after another. Aunt Priss rocks, as usual. Gordy’s mom plays a more central role and I like her more with each book.
Gordy’s grandpa, Mezzariz, is an interesting character. He’s a villain with so many different sides, I never knew what his endgame really was until the end. The new head of BREW causes problems for everybody with her shady ethics. Add a little girl with a strange uncle and there’s an eclectic class of nasties haunting Gordy and his family and friends. I had to keep reading to see how they’d get out of all the messes.
A fun, fast-paced read for middle-grade level readers and above!
Gordy’s amazing talents are explored in more depth and a dark side to his Blind Batching is shown. The villains are creepy and challenge the whole gang’s growing skills. With disappointments, betrayals, and invisible enemies, there is one danger after another. Aunt Priss rocks, as usual. Gordy’s mom plays a more central role and I like her more with each book.
Gordy’s grandpa, Mezzariz, is an interesting character. He’s a villain with so many different sides, I never knew what his endgame really was until the end. The new head of BREW causes problems for everybody with her shady ethics. Add a little girl with a strange uncle and there’s an eclectic class of nasties haunting Gordy and his family and friends. I had to keep reading to see how they’d get out of all the messes.
A fun, fast-paced read for middle-grade level readers and above!
February 8, 2023
Nine months after Gordy, with the help of friends and family, prevented a catastrophic end to the Board of Ruling Elixirists Worldwide (BREW), he's in a new grade and is excited for his official training to be an elixirist. Max and Adilene, Gordy's best friends, are back, along with Gordy's extremely talented elixirist mother, aunt, and two of his mom's coworkers.
There are also a few new faces. The new principal's daughter, Sasha, is very interested in Gordy's potion making and also wants to prove that she's better than him. After all, Sasha's mom is the new president of BREW, and she taught Sasha everything she knows... and fired Gordy's mom from BREW. Adilene befriends a new girl, Cadence, who's very interested in potion making and enlists Adilene's help in spying on Gordy.
As Mezzarix threatens the existence of BREW in conjunction with a mysterious woman who enlists Mezzarix's help replicating a foreign substance called Silt, the friends must decide where to place their trust—and they may end up choosing differently.
BRIEF REVIEW
I liked this one better than the first! Mrs. Brexil was an interesting antagonist, and I thought there were some good moral messages about family trust. I did NOT see that plot twist coming (spoiler in blog post). It’s also age-appropriate in terms of content.
BRIEF CONTENT GUIDE
😘A few mentions of middle-school crushes.
🙊No swearing.
🍷One use of a cigar by a minor character.
🤕Minimal violence.
BOTTOM LINE
If you liked the first book, you will enjoy this one--probably even more!
FULL REVIEW AND CONTENT GUIDE available at (https://betterbookbureau.weebly.com/r...)
There are also a few new faces. The new principal's daughter, Sasha, is very interested in Gordy's potion making and also wants to prove that she's better than him. After all, Sasha's mom is the new president of BREW, and she taught Sasha everything she knows... and fired Gordy's mom from BREW. Adilene befriends a new girl, Cadence, who's very interested in potion making and enlists Adilene's help in spying on Gordy.
As Mezzarix threatens the existence of BREW in conjunction with a mysterious woman who enlists Mezzarix's help replicating a foreign substance called Silt, the friends must decide where to place their trust—and they may end up choosing differently.
BRIEF REVIEW
I liked this one better than the first! Mrs. Brexil was an interesting antagonist, and I thought there were some good moral messages about family trust. I did NOT see that plot twist coming (spoiler in blog post). It’s also age-appropriate in terms of content.
BRIEF CONTENT GUIDE
😘A few mentions of middle-school crushes.
🙊No swearing.
🍷One use of a cigar by a minor character.
🤕Minimal violence.
BOTTOM LINE
If you liked the first book, you will enjoy this one--probably even more!
FULL REVIEW AND CONTENT GUIDE available at (https://betterbookbureau.weebly.com/r...)
January 11, 2019
This was a roaring second book in the series.
The first book had to do the world building, and I understand that. This one did not wait one second before launching into the action.
Poor Gordy is beset with issues. He had to move, his mom is in trouble at work, and wait, who is this new girl and how can he get his training without a lab partner?
So many details. I loved the back and forth here, the way that Gordy is pulled in multiple directions, and his issues feed into his friend's Adilene's issues so that she is tempted by another new mysterious girl to do things she otherwise would not have done. I mean, isn't this what junior high was like? All questioning, lacking self confidence, leading to actions that don't really sound advisable.
This book opens up the whole potions Community into a much wider world, full of all kinds of populations that we hadn't known about earlier, and brings in more adult characters too, that all have various motivations, some of them very nefarious.
The climax was amazing, and the ending was surprising. I loved it. What a ride.
The first book had to do the world building, and I understand that. This one did not wait one second before launching into the action.
Poor Gordy is beset with issues. He had to move, his mom is in trouble at work, and wait, who is this new girl and how can he get his training without a lab partner?
So many details. I loved the back and forth here, the way that Gordy is pulled in multiple directions, and his issues feed into his friend's Adilene's issues so that she is tempted by another new mysterious girl to do things she otherwise would not have done. I mean, isn't this what junior high was like? All questioning, lacking self confidence, leading to actions that don't really sound advisable.
This book opens up the whole potions Community into a much wider world, full of all kinds of populations that we hadn't known about earlier, and brings in more adult characters too, that all have various motivations, some of them very nefarious.
The climax was amazing, and the ending was surprising. I loved it. What a ride.
July 20, 2024
This one started off a little slow and strange, but it built up and it was really interesting and exciting. I am sure youth will love this one. It is called transparency tonic though there really isn't. At least not in this book. It is something brought from someplace else that has not been replicated. It does make you transparent I guess. The thing that really bothered me in this one if we take potions as something like say a pill or a powder in our world if you were a youth in junior high and some person you just barely met brings you a pill and says oh take that pill or some powder and says oh just put that in your mouth I don't think you would be readily anxious to do that. So that was a bit of a stretch for this young lady to just accept that there was this vial of potion that she could take and put in her mouth. I guess she did say she started off small rubbing it on her skin. But I don't think that makes it much better
February 10, 2019
Fun addition to the growing series. Loved learning about all the new potions and the fun and creepy ingredients used in each. I had a fun time trying to figure out what was really happening behind the scenes, and I know I have to wait a while, but I'm looking forward to the next installment!
The friend, Max, started to get more annoying in this book than in the first one. He doesn't let up, and I wanted to scream at Gordy for doing things, even though he knew better. It's that whole idea of movie characters going to investigate in a scary house at night by themselves when they hear noises. It's NEVER a good idea. NEVER!
The friend, Max, started to get more annoying in this book than in the first one. He doesn't let up, and I wanted to scream at Gordy for doing things, even though he knew better. It's that whole idea of movie characters going to investigate in a scary house at night by themselves when they hear noises. It's NEVER a good idea. NEVER!
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