The Alchemist's Daughter
by Katherine McMahon
Published by Crown
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Reviewed by Sarra Borne
After her mother's death in childbirth, Emilie Selden has been raised by her father in a state of sheltered isolation at Selden Manor.
Her father has taught her much about science and alchemy but little of human nature; leaving her ill-prepared when a handsome, young admirer comes to call while her father is away on his annual visit to London.
Imagine his surprise when he returns to find his daughter in disgrace. Fortunately for Emilie, her seducer Aislabie has agreed to marry her. Her father, suspecting Aislabie's motives, refuses to accept the marriage and disowns Emilie when she persists.
The newly married couple moves to London, where Emilie discovers that married life isn't what she expected, and neither is her husband. She returns to Selden Manor only to suffer yet another disappointment.
This is not a happy book, the themes of dashed romance and disillusionment dance throughout the pages. Emilie has to learn to be strong in the face of setback after setback. It takes all the strength of character and discipline that her father has taught her to come to grips with her present and future.
Armchair Interviews says: This is a classic story of innocence and betrayal in the tradition of Tracy Chevalier.