Alchemy’s Daughter

Alchemy’s Daughter, book two of the alchemy series by Mary. A Osborne

Acclaim for Alchemy’s Daughter

Kirkus Reviews: “Brimming with details of life in Italy during the plague of 1348, this well-researched story incorporates historical information about medieval alchemy, midwifery, and the conflict between science and superstition, providing a rich context and arresting contrast for Santina’s thoroughly modern attitudes.”

VOYA Magazine:  Alchemy’s Daughter is a poetically written historical fiction novel. It will delight middle grade and young adult readers, who will root for Santina as she faces obstacles with strength and resolve.”

Literary Classics International Book Awards & Reviews: “Author Mary Osborne’s adept portrayal of a spirited and intelligent young girl growing  up in Italy during the Middle Ages is an alluring tale that provides an intriguing blend of  history, romance, and adventure.  Alchemy’s Daughter is a story with timeless appeal.”

Booklist: “Santina is a smart, capable heroine whose desire for both knowledge and love will feel familiar to many modern readers.”

Foreword Reviews: In Santina, multiple-award winner Mary A. Osborne has crafted a fully complex character, impulsive and enthusiastic on the surface, but with greater depth than typically found in YA fare… Santina’s story is a lively, emotional journey worth sharing.”

Sr. M. Paul McCaughey, O.P., Superintendent of the Archdiocese Chicago Catholic Schools: “Ancient texts, family intrigue, and the perils of the plague flow through Alchemy’s  Daughter. In this coming-of-age novel set in the Middle Ages, young adult readers will  identify with Santina’s struggles as she learns about choices and their consequences.”

*****

Santina Pietra is seventeen and in medieval San Gimignano, daughters of merchants are expected to marry.  But Santina cares only for Calandrino, a brilliant young scholar who is preoccupied with his ancient alchemical texts.  Soon Santina meets Trotula, the village midwife, who might or might not be a strega, a witch.  Trotula challenges her to forget Calandrino and become the woman she is meant to be.  Some say she is a victim of the midwife’s spell, but Santina is determined to follow in Trotula’s footsteps even as calamities strike.

*****

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