As a fan of Gothic literature and classic heroines, it’s a wonder I haven’t read The Strange Case of the Alchemist’s Daughter until now. This is a tour de force of gothic heroines re-writing their stories and taking back their voices. And it’s all wrapped into one! Keep reading this book review of The Strange Case of the Alchemist’s Daughter for my full thoughts.
Summary
Mary Jekyll, alone and penniless following her parents’ death, is curious about the secrets of her father’s mysterious past. One clue in particular hints that Edward Hyde, her father’s former friend and a murderer, may be nearby, and there is a reward for information leading to his capture…a reward that would solve all of her immediate financial woes.
But her hunt leads her to Hyde’s daughter, Diana, a feral child left to be raised by nuns. With the assistance of Sherlock Holmes and Dr. Watson, Mary continues her search for the elusive Hyde, and soon befriends more women, all of whom have been created through terrifying experimentation: Beatrice Rappaccini, Catherin Moreau, and Justine Frankenstein.
When their investigations lead them to the discovery of a secret society of immoral and power-crazed scientists, the horrors of their past return. Now it is up to the monsters to finally triumph over the monstrous.
Review
(Disclaimer: I received this book from the publisher. This has not impacted my review which is unbiased and honest.)
If you love stories about ‘monstrous’ women, then you have to read The Strange Case of the Alchemist’s Daughter. It’s devoted to giving voices to those on the periphery, to those who society deem monstrous, and how they make sense of their own identity. With a reflective tone, you’re immediately intrigued in the stories of these women and how their stories intersect. It was intriguing to see the pieces click together and with the little inserts of the characters reacting to the chapters, gave it a layered feel to it. The Strange Case of the Alchemist’s Daughter explores the unraveling of experimentation and the line between “Other” and humanity.
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There’s both a strong sense of mystery – not only with the characters, but also the story – but also a dash of hilarity. It’s a solid foundation of a series starter and perfectly introduces these heroines. They are inventive, vulnerable, and challenge the confines of their society. I loved the asides and the idea of ‘monstrous’ women playing with the narratives. I’m so glad I finally read this one! Find The Strange Case of the Alchemist’s Daughter on Goodreads, Storygraph, Bookshop. org, Blackwells, & Libro. fm.