The Apothecary

Maile Meloy

A dose of magic could save the world . . .

Fourteen-year-old Janie Scott is new to London and she's finding it dull, dreary and cold - until she meets Benjamin Burrows who dreams of becoming a spy. When Benjamin's father, the mysterious apothecary, is kidnapped he entrusts Janie and Benjamin with his sacred book, full of ancient spells and magical potions. Now the two new friends must uncover the book's secrets in order to find him, all while keeping it out of the hands of their enemies - Russian spies in possession of nuclear weapons.

Beautifully written and expertly paced, this stunning and poignant novel will have readers on the edge of their seats.

Reviews

"If you read anything this summer, this book should be the one."
Daily Telegraph

"Meloy weaves fantasy into a fine work of historical fiction."
New York Times

"Book of the Week"
Sunday Times

"An absorbing and original historical thriller with a Pullman-esque feel. There's an irresistible seam of magic, and a vivid 1950's setting."
Fiona Noble - The Bookseller

"Cracking read"
Evening Standard

"Part fantasy and part historical, this beautifully written and expertly paced, stunning and poignant novel will have readers on the edge of their seats."
Julia Eccleshare, LoveReading4Kids

"Thoroughly enjoyable adventure, filled with magic, humour, memorable characters . . . with evocative, confident prose."
Publishers Weekly

"A whodunit seasoned with fantasy, and a psychological thriller. Ian Schoenherr’s moody black-and-white drawings intensify its atmosphere."
Irish Times

"A gem of historical fiction."
Sunday Star Ledger

"Inventive, smart and fun, an absolute delight."
Rebecca Stead, author of When You Reach Me