About The Book

He became the leader of a rebellion. She became the symbol of everything he was fighting against.

As children, Nina Harrow and Patrick Colson uncovered a secret that could destroy their world:

Artisans aren't born. They're made.

Years later, that secret has ignited a revolution.

Nina is now one of the most powerful elemental mages in Belavere. Patrick has become a rebel leader determined to bring the ruling class to its knees.

When Nina is captured by Patrick's forces, she comes face-to-face with the boy she never forgot—and the man she should now consider her enemy.

Forced into an uneasy alliance, they must work together to complete a mission that could change the course of the war. But old feelings refuse to stay buried, and the sparks between them are more dangerous than ever.

Then Nina's first love returns with an offer that could save her world—and destroy Patrick.

Caught between loyalty and desire, Nina must decide who to betray before a choice made for love sparks a war that could burn everything to the ground.

Perfect for readers who love elemental magic, childhood friends-to-lovers, forbidden romance, political intrigue, devastating betrayals, and slow-burn romantasy filled with impossible choices.

Appearances

JUL 14
6:00PM
In Person

Book launch with Dymocks Sydney

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The Comedy Store
122 Lang Road, Building 207, The Entertainment Qua
Moore Park, NSW 2021
AUG 7
6:30PM
In Person

Stacey McEwan in conversation with Jaymin Eve

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Robina Library
196 Robina Town Centre Drive
Robina, QLD 4226
AUG 13
12:00AM
In Person

In conversation

State Library Victoria
328 Swanston Street
Melbourne, VIC 3000

About The Author

Supplied by the author

Stacey McEwan is the New York Times and USA TODAY bestselling author of the Glacian Trilogy. Her debut fantasy romance novel, Ledge, has been published in several languages. Stacey received a bachelor’s degree in education in 2012 and was a classroom teacher for eleven years. She is a content creator on multiple platforms, including TikTok and Instagram. Stacey first published after book lovers of the internet encouraged her to share her story ideas. She was born and raised on the Gold Coast, Australia, and still resides in her hometown with her husband, two children, and one questionable dog. 

Product Details

  • Publisher: Simon & Schuster Australia (July 2, 2025)
  • Length: 368 pages
  • ISBN13: 9781761428517

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Raves and Reviews

‘Stacey once again delivers a high stakes fantasy that not only keeps you on the edge of your seat but squeezes your heart until it bleeds.’

Amber V. Nicole, author of The Book of Azrael

'I’m never going to shut up about this book. An epic breath of fresh air romantasy. A feat of genius magic system and banter so feet kicking good you’ll need breaks to scream. McEwan’s writing is the kind that leaves you staring at the wall wondering how you’ll go on waiting for the next installment. A Forbidden Alchemy is the romantasy book you’ll never get over.'

Hannah Nicole Maehrer, author of Assistant to the Villain

‘Stacey McEwan’s writing has a way of drawing you in and never letting go. A Forbidden Alchemy was no exception, and I found myself gripped by these pages, following the tale of Nina and Patrick and rooting for them every step of the way. I loved the secrets, the tension and the burning chemistry. Romantasy lovers need to add this one to their TBR.’

Nisha J. Tuli, author of Trial of the Sun Queen.

‘This book is a pressure-corked vial crafted with the perfect romantic tension and pure gangster-style grit. I was ready to be buried beneath the mines that Stacey McEwan created. This story has mettle, raw heart and inescapable magnetism. I loved every single chapter.’

Raven Kennedy, author of Gild.

'In this world of magic, love, and lust, you simply won't be able to place the bookmark until well into the black of night. McEwan is a powerhouse of Australian genre fiction.'

The Australian

‘Stacey McEwan creates a rich new world in her newest dystopian series... Expect political intrigue, suspense and romance, plus a few heart-stopping moments.’ 

Canberra Times

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