Are you ready for a magical read? Check out The Alchemy of Flowers. You won’t be able to put this one down.

THE ALCHEMY OF FLOWERS is an enjoyable read that would work well for book clubs. The themes and subject matter are serious, particularly with respect to infertility, but there is a simplicity to the narrative that should appeal to readers who are not looking for anything deep or complex.

The relationship that Eloise develops with Raphael goes through its ups and downs, and sometimes the miscommunications can be a bit frustrating.

I enjoyed the magic and Eloise's ability to speak to the flowers.

This is not a thriller, and I hope it is not marketed as such. However, this story should appeals to fans looking for a cozy read with fantastical elements and a strong romance subplot.

Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for an advance e-galley; all opinions in my review are 100% my own.

There are many rules those who wish to live and work behind the mysterious walled gardens of Le Château du Paradis must follow. One must not gossip. One must not leave their room during dusk.


Eloise has had an awful time lately. After trying unsuccessfully to get pregnant, having a child die because he thought he could fly like the penguin in her books., and now finding out her man is with another woman and she is pregnant.


Eloise doesn’t want to even see children anymore and a job where one of the “perks” is no children allowed.


There are a lot of seemingly silly rules. Three other adults work and live within the walled garden. And only Annabelle in the castle has a key to the gate.


Listening to flowers talk to her and making wonderful herbal and floral teas and potions sounds idyllic. Until you realize you can’t leave.


Ghostly goddesses roam at dusk but these goddesses can touch things and pick up things and is that a woodsprite? Is she losing her marbles in this lovely garden?


I did love this story. Sometimes you need to leave it all behind and go and talk to the fairies..er..flowers!


NetGalley/ Harper Collins Focus/Harper Muse July 29, 2025

The Alchemy of Flowers by Laura is such a gorgeous, lush, whimsical story that just grabs hold and doesn’t let go.
This story is full of magical realism, ‘is this too perfect?’, found family, gorgeous setting that I’m still thinking about.

The Alchemy of Flowers releases June 29, 2025. If you loved the whimsy of The Night Circus and the relationships in Once and Future Witches, you are going to love Laura Resau’s* adult debut.

*cool factor moment, Laura is a former student of my mother. It’s amazing seeing a fellow Howard County alumni do amazing things.

The Alchemy of Flowers by Laura Resau is a masterpiece! I loved this book with my soul. I couldn't stop reading this. This author is a genious!

‘The Alchemy of Flowers’ is the perfect read for anyone looking for witchy vibes and a whimsical world to fall into.

I really enjoyed this book. It utterly captivated me, and I was left wanting more with every chapter. This story is both heartbreaking and heartwarming as we follow the main character (Eloise) on a journey to recover from devastating loss with the help of her found family. It’s beautifully written and full of stunning descriptions that really helped to set the scene and transported me to the ‘Garden of Paradise'. Each character has their own set of complexities, which we get to learn about throughout the book, and I think most people will find something in a character they can relate to.

The only thing I would advise people to be mindful of when picking this up is that there are themes and topics throughout, including loss and reproductive health, which some people may find difficult to read.

I would like to thank Harper Focus / Harper Muse, NetGalley, and Laura Resau for the complimentary copy of this book. All opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

The Alchemy of Flowers is an enchanting tale that seamlessly weaves together magic, mystery, and personal healing. Set in a secluded French garden with an air of quiet enchantment, the novel invites readers into a world where flowers hold secrets, and transformation blooms alongside grief.

At the heart of the story is Eloise, a protagonist whose journey from loss to renewal is both heartbreaking and heartwarming. The novel beautifully explores themes of found family, resilience, and self-discovery, all against the backdrop of the mesmerizing ‘Garden of Paradise.’ The author’s lush, atmospheric descriptions make the setting feel almost tangible, transporting readers into a world brimming with magic and quiet wonder.

Beyond its whimsical elements, The Alchemy of Flowers also touches on deeper, more emotional themes, including loss and reproductive health. While these aspects add depth and richness to the story, they may be challenging for some readers.

With a blend of magical realism, mystery, and even a touch of horror, the novel carries a unique charm that may appeal to both adult and young adult audiences. Whether you’re drawn to witchy aesthetics, immersive settings, or deeply personal character journeys, this book offers a captivating and beautifully written escape.

What a charming read. I loved the focus on nature and plants as a way to carry the analogy throughout the story. It wasn’t the easiest read at points, but it was so sensitively handled that I was glad I was reading it. Beautiful.