Review: Tea & Alchemy by Sharon Lynn Fisher

*I received an advance reading copy of this book from Canadian Manda Group in exchange for an honest review.

Tea & Alchemy

by Sharon Lynn Fisher

January 1, 2026

Goodreads Summary:

A tea leaf reader in nineteenth-century England falls in love—and in danger—with a reclusive alchemist in an enthralling historical fantasy by the author of Salt & Broom and Grimm Curiosities.

Cornwall, 1854. The people of Roche have always whispered about the recluse in the black granite tower that looms above the moorland. But one young woman is driven to discover the truth behind the old tales.

Her life overshadowed by family tragedy, Mina Penrose escapes her lonely days by working at The Magpie, a cozy tearoom on the village’s edge. Lately she’s been seeing shapes in the sodden leaves that hint at the future. After one such omen, Mina stumbles upon a murdered man on the heath. Villagers immediately suspect Harker Tregarrick, a living, breathing mystery who never ventures beyond the bounds of his centuries-old estate.

Until the day after the murder, when the handsome and compelling recluse visits The Magpie…leading to a meeting that will change both their fates. Captivated by a man around whom danger and rumors of death swirl, Mina has never felt more alive. Can she uncover Harker’s heartbreaking history—and the truth about the murder—before tragedy strikes again?

Review

Quiet and mysterious, Tea & Alchemy was a good read. The story was a little too short for me to develop any strong feelings, but it was easy to sympathize with the characters and their predicaments.

Tea & Alchemy was a very atmospheric read- heavy at times yet fluffy at others. The stress and strain of the characters was easily felt throughout the story. However, I was keenly aware of a lack of motivation in the villain. I enjoyed how the twist was slowly revealed through flashbacks and eyewitnesses, but we didn’t get more beyond that. It would’ve been nice to see some origin to the creature that has plagued Roche Rock for decades.

Mina was stubborn and stupidly brave. She made some questionable moves, but I applaud her for not standing idly by. “While thus far I’ve found all your reasoning sound, I begin to worry about your judgment.” (p. 108) Harker was level-headed and a sound judge of situations. He tried not to take unnecessary risks and always had people’s best interest at heart. Harker and Mina perfectly balanced each other out. Their mutual affection led to some shy and sweet moments.

I really enjoyed the paranormal atmosphere, the contrasting characters and the tender romance in Tea & Alchemy. It's a story for readers who like not knowing too much going into a book.

*I received a copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own and not affected in any way. Any quotes included in my review were taken from the copy I received.