Books like The alchemist's daughter by Katharine McMahon

Selden Manor, hidden in the Buckinghamshire countryside, cradles Emilie Selden, a girl raised in isolation by her father, John Selden—a devoted student of Isaac Newton. John aspires to transform his daughter into a brilliant natural philosopher and alchemist, pouring obsessive attention and knowledge into her upbringing, with only two servants for companionship. In 1725, they embark on a daring alchemical experiment to animate dead matter, but their work is disrupted by the arrival of two strangers—a researcher and a charming young merchant. During a hot August, while her father is away, Emilie experiences her first love and, following her heart, makes a pivotal choice. Banished to London, she confronts a society that is both glamorous and unforgiving. Although she possesses extraordinary education, she lacks insight into human emotions. As she attempts to return to scholarly pursuits, she uncovers a shocking secret that propels her on a true journey toward enlightenment. Set against the backdrop of eighteenth‑century London, the novel explores themes of secrecy, generational conflict, female coming‑of‑age, and the pursuit of knowledge.

First publish date: 2006