The Alchemist's Secret

The first book in the Ben Hope series by Scott Mariani. It was his debut novel.

Ben Hope is a former solider who now spends his life searching for lost children.

In this book he is recruited by a client to look for an ancient Alchemist manuscript that could help cure a dying child.

At first he is highly sceptical and turns the offer down, but due to something that happened in his distant past Hope sympathises with his client and ends up accepting the job.

And then all Hell breaks loose.

SPOILERS AHEAD: YE BE WARNED (mostly the second-to-last paragraph)


Not long after accepting the job and going to Paris to start his investigations, Hope becomes aware that this job is going to be a lot harder than he had first thought. He'd thought that the manuscript most likely didn't exist and that he was just being sent on a wild goose chase. The more information he unearths the more interested he becomes, and the more people who try to kill him for his knowledge the more he realises how dangerous the situation he is in is.

Thankfully, he is a professional and knows very well how to deal with all this unwanted attention. Much to the annoyance of the local police who are left with a trail of bodies and no clue as to what's going on.

Overall the book was thoroughly enjoyable and kept me hooked. The plot was interesting, there aren't many books dealing with alchemy. A few, but not many. The author had obviously done his research on the topic. A nice little plot twist in there that surprisingly enough I hadn't noticed, although it should have been obvious when I think back to it. The mystery part of the book was well thought out in my opinion.



Only downsides I could see was that the book had a lot of clichés e.g. Ben Hope was plagued by something that happened in his youth and that he felt guilty for, causing him to drink and to have difficulties getting close to anyone. He was a ‘professional' but there wasn't much detail into his past to explain why he is so good at what he does. There was also the typical meet someone –> oh no I couldn't possibly be thinking of being with her she deserves so much better than me –> apart for ages then meet again suddenly and realise neither can live without the other etc.

However since it's very difficult to write something without any clichés, and that most people seem to like some romance in their stories, I've decided not to judge too harshly for this. I found the characters not too relatable also, but according to others I've spoken to I am the only one who thought so.

“The Alchemist's Secret” by Scott Mariani is a thrilling tale that blends history, mystery, and action seamlessly. Set in the picturesque landscapes of Europe, the novel follows the protagonist, Ben Hope, a former SAS soldier turned troubleshooter, as he embarks on a quest to unravel an ancient mystery surrounding the legendary philosopher's stone.

One of the most commendable aspects of Mariani's writing is his ability to create vivid and immersive settings. From the narrow streets of Prague to the snow-capped peaks of the Swiss Alps, each location is described in exquisite detail, transporting the reader effortlessly into the heart of the action. This attention to detail adds depth and authenticity to the narrative, enhancing the overall reading experience.

The character development in “The Alchemist's Secret” is also noteworthy. Ben Hope is a compelling protagonist, portrayed with depth and complexity. His background as a former soldier lends credibility to his skills and actions, while his internal struggles and moral dilemmas add layers to his personality. Supporting characters are equally well-crafted, each bringing their own unique traits and motivations to the story.

Mariani's plot is fast-paced and engaging, filled with twists and turns that keep the reader guessing until the very end. The incorporation of historical elements adds an extra dimension to the narrative, providing fascinating insights into alchemy and its practitioners throughout the ages. However, at times, the plot may feel slightly predictable, with certain plot twists and revelations following a familiar formula.

While “The Alchemist's Secret” is an enthralling read overall, it is not without its flaws. Some readers may find the occasional clichéd dialogue or predictable plot elements detract from the overall enjoyment of the story. Additionally, certain scenes may stretch the limits of plausibility, requiring a suspension of disbelief on the part of the reader.

In conclusion, “The Alchemist's Secret” is a captivating adventure that will appeal to fans of historical fiction and action-packed thrillers alike. With its immersive settings, well-developed characters, and intricate plot, it offers an entertaining escape into a world of ancient mysteries and modern-day intrigue. While it may not be without its flaws, its strengths far outweigh its weaknesses, earning it a solid rating of 4 out of 5.