ALCHEMIST’S POTION
BONNIE HAMRE
ISBIN# 1-4199-0588-0
March 2006
Ellora’s Cave
www.ellorascave.com
E-Book
$5.95
Pages 148
Paranormal/Medieval
Rating: 4 cups

Julian of Wimborne Minster is a man past his prime and dedicated to the search for the Philosopher's Stone. He has no interest in the physical pleasures he once enjoyed so much. Then he stumbles upon an elixir that restores his body to its youthful vigor and with it, his desires for the lovely woman he has taken in.

Phillipa of Wareham has contented herself with her position as Julian’s chatelaine. The young widow responds to the newly revived Julian with passion even while she worries the elixir he has discovered will expose her own secret.

As their feelings grow from physical attraction to love, word of the amazing restorative effects of Julian’s potion spread, gendering them the attention of King Henry himself. Julian and Phillipa find themselves embroiled in court intrigue and war, where their lives could end at any time.

It is hard for me to say what part of this story I liked best, the romance, the historical accuracy or the study on how people react when extraordinary things happen. Ms. Hamre does a fabulous job of keeping within the setting of the times with her dialogue and attention to detail. The love story between Julian and Phillipa is realistic, with the pair coming together first in physical attraction, then emotionally. I thoroughly enjoyed this story.

Meme
Reviewer for Coffee Time Romance
Reviewer for Karen Find Out About New Books