The Elixir — Lindsay Galvin

With a witchfinder skulking about town, gifted healer Ann and a young Isaac Newton must be careful not to draw too much attention in this high-stakes story from Lindsay Galvin.

Will the discovery of the Elixir of Life lead to a death sentence for a talented young healer?

Ann Storer has inherited her grandmother's mysterious gift of healing, which she shares through the special tinctures she dispenses in her family's apothecary shop. When she combines her talents with the genius of a young Isaac Newton, recently arrived to board above the shop, the two create an incredible elixir with seemingly unlimited powers.

But seventeenth-century England is a dangerous place to display any special abilities, and Ann must hide all evidence when witchfinder Abel Geach arrives in town.

So when the plague starts to run rife and those she loves are in danger, will Ann risk everything to help them?

Particularly suitable for readers aged 9+ with a reading age of 8.

Reviews

"History and magic collide in this bewitching tale!" -- Lucy Strange

"Lindsay Galvin is an exceptional writer … Her ability to convey so much description, action, emotion, characterisation and plot in such inclusive language and structure is masterful … With a drive, passion and a touch of magic, Ann is a marvellous protagonist." -- From Pen And Page, blog

"The triangular connection of 17th century witch hunting, the plague and young Isaac Newtown create a compelling story that will keep readers hooked … The Elixir is the perfect story for children in Key Stage 2 and Key Stage 3 who enjoy historical fiction stirred up with science and magic." -- Scope for Imagination, blog

"We get incredible historical events brought so richly to life and Lindsay adds her own distinctive fictitious elements (not to mention Kristina's beautiful, distinctive illustrations too!) … It's another gripping page-turner â€" will Ann be accused of witchcraft? How does Isaac Newton end up here? Who will survive the plague? … a spellbinding, entertaining story." -- Check 'Em Out Books, blog

"An absolutely compelling historical fantasy novella, set in seventeenth century England … A masterful blending of history, science and fantasy that left me utterly captivated â€" and astounded! The illustrations are absolutely stunning and capture the time period and the emotion of the story perfectly. An enthralling page-turner that captures the indomitable spirit of a young girl who uses her innate abilities to help others and stand against hatred and prejudice." -- Book Craic, blog

About the author

Lindsay Galvin is an author writing for middle grade, teen and adults. She's a qualified teacher with 20 years experience, and loves to visit schools. Lindsay is also a @writementor tutor, mentor and staff writer, and provides manuscript services. She currently lives on the south coast with three boys, two cats and one puppy.