Alchemy of secrets A novel

Rumors of mysterious roving lessons about local Los Angeles legends and urban myths, taught by a woman known as the Professor, lead Holland St. James to Folklore 517. Raised on her father's treasure hunts and allured by the Professor's magical stories, Holland attends all of the classes, and the Professor becomes her mentor as she writes a thesis about her theory that the devil has murdered several Hollywood celebrities in deals with the devil that weren't paid back. Holland's life abruptly changes when she encounters one of the legends from class--the Watch Man, who tells her that she'll die tomorrow, on Halloween at 11:59 p.m., but she may be able to live longer if she finds the Alchemical Heart, a powerful magical object. This launches her on a desperate and dangerous quest that may also lead to answers about her parents' deaths. Garber skillfully conjures a tantalizingly atmospheric story that reveals a hidden world of magic. While it will leave readers with lingering questions, the fast-paced novel will keep them in thrall as Holland races to save her own life. VERDICT YA author Garber's ("Caraval" series) adult debut is an enchanting and intriguing contemporary fantasy with enticing touches of Old Hollywood.--Melissa DeWild