A Forbidden Alchemy (Stacey McEwan, S&S)

A Forbidden Alchemy is an enthralling romantasy that blends magic, politics and passion in a world on the brink of revolution. It follows a talented dreamer, a quick-witted loyalist, and a world-changing secret that sets the stage for war. Nina and Patrick meet as teenagers in Belavere City, where young people are tested for their magical potential. Nina is desperate to escape her past and become an Artisan, while Patrick wants nothing more than to return to his family and work in the idium mines that power the city. Despite their differences, they share instant chemistry and soon uncover a shocking secret: Artisans are chosen, not born. Vowing to keep the secret, they go their separate ways. Years later, they reconnect, and Nina is torn between loyalty and duty. With vivid world-building, A Forbidden Alchemy is a fast-paced read that features layered social and economic dynamics, passionate affairs intertwined with politics and power, magical elements, engaging and supportive characters, and twists and turns that readers won’t see coming. Stacey McEwan’s portrayal of the ongoing struggle for power, loyalty and identity allows Nina to draw out a softer, more generous side of Patrick, just as Patrick encourages Nina to embrace her true self. A must-read for fans of McEwan’s The Glacian Trilogy, the novel may also resonate with some older readers of YA. Fans of romantasy, especially Rebecca Yarros’s The Empyrean series or Callie Hart’s Quicksilver, will be spellbound.

Books+Publishing reviewer: Abbey Taylor is a freelance reviewer and librarian. Books+Publishing is Australia’s number-one source of pre-publication book reviews.

Books+Publishing pre-publication reviews are supported by the Copyright Agency Cultural Fund.

Category: Friday Unlocked reviews Reviews