The Accidental Alchemist

In this lighthearted supernatural mystery series launch, Zoe Faust heads to Portland, Ore., looking for a fresh start in a place where being different is okay—even if you’re not only a vegan and an herbalist but also 338 years old and a nonpracticing alchemist. Everything goes according to plan until the repairman who has come to remodel her fixer-upper is poisoned and stabbed on the stairs. Zoe becomes both prime suspect and chief detective. Aided by a living gargoyle and a 14-year-old thrill seeker, Zoe must discover who the real killer is before her secrets are revealed. Meanwhile, romance brews, as do so many other subplots that the story never acquires focus. Pandian (Pirate Vishnu) sets this series apart from other fluffy paranormal mysteries with Zoe’s cute nonhuman sidekick and some mouthwatering vegan recipes. Agent: Marsal Lyon Literary Agency. (Jan.)