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Table of Contents
About The Book
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
The Comedy Store
Robina Library
In Person
In conversation
State Library Victoria
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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Book Cover Image (jpg): A Forbidden Alchemy
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