Rating: 
Summary: I love a mystery, but not this one
Review: Scottish author John Ward writes in a style common to occultist books. The language in THE SECRET OF THE ALCHEMIST is continental, some terms would doubtless be unfamiliar to most readers. There also is some vulgarity. I found hints of sexuality and depravity. In one scene, a woman is drugged, then her young daughter is stolen from her. She is doused with alcohol so that the police will think her a drunkard, and her story of her child's abduction to be merely the ranting of a street person.Though a book source I found said the book was for readers 9-12, I would not give this novel to anyone under the age of fourteen or fifteen. Even if they could wade through the obscure language and literary references, the overall dark tone of the book is not for younger readers. NOT RECOMMENDED. Caution for some language and adult content.
Rating: 
Summary: Not to be compared with J.K Rowling
Review: This book is an enthralling read with a real Faustian villain and Historic Heroes. It carries at lot of atmosphere and tension just waiting to unwind in an instant at the climax. The Characters are practically 4d (4th dimension being Reality)! An excellent plot and an exhilarating story overall. This book should never be compared with Harry Potter (because we wouldn't want tosee Rowling lose!) as they are both aimed at different audiences and are composed in different styles! Potter was aimed at 9-11 and now is attempting (in vain) to crawl up the scales to keep up with the original audience, the newer books being a load of tripe (in my opinion) nowhere nearly as good as the first few, but the Secret of the Alchemist is aimed at Young Adults (12/13 all the way up to as far as you want). Overall great read can't wait for the Stone of Sorrow!
Rating:
Summary: Super Secret!
Review: This is a really great story, full of adventure. It was really different from other books that i have read, the characters of Jake and Helen are really well developed through the book and are good as the heroes. They get to travel all over Europe in pursuit of the Secret of the Alchemist and there are also scary bits which are really cool. I learnt a lot from this book and i would suggest to all my friends and to you that you read it.
Rating: 
Summary: A Really Good Read
Review: This is, I think, a very good read. It has the right mix of the realistic and the fantastical. As well as introducing the reader to the shady underworld of the occult, the author also takes us on a tour of some of Europe's most beautiful cities; gives us a view of two very different families and ways of life and allows us to dip into the work of the great Italian poet Dante. What else could be better for us as young readers? This author has shown a great deal of respect and knowledge for his audience in this educational yet gripping book. I hope that there is more of the same coming soon.
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