{I've Been Reading} The Alchemist's Illusion

The Alchemist's Illusion by Gigi Pandian

Guys, I love absolutely everything about Gigi Pandian's Accidental Alchemist mysteries. The books  are filled with characters I want to spend a lot more time with. The historical elements woven through the books are absolutely fascinating. And did I mention that there's a living gargoyle? Just in case the alchemy wasn't enough of a hook to get you reading there's Dorian, a gargoyle who was originally carved for Notre-Dame and is now an extraordinary chef.

Zoe Faust has taken great pains to conceal her true age and to hide in plain sight. Most recently that's in Portland, Oregon. When she finds herself face to face with a painting of her mentor, Nicolas Flamel, then the painting and records of its existence are stolen, Zoe fears the worst. Could he actually be imprisoned in the painting itself? She finds herself in a web of murder and art forgery and it becomes increasingly hard to keep her secrets out of the official police investigation.

If you're as fascinated by the idea of alchemy in art as I found myself, you'll want to click over and take a look at  The Art of Alchemy exhibit at the Getty Research Institute  You can also find more information about the series at Gigi Pandian's website. I'll be watching closely for updates -- the series is being developed for television.