A Forbidden Alchemy

by

Stacey McEwan

Should you read this book?

The best public reviews summarized for you.

Who is this book for?

  • Readers who enjoy complex fantasy worlds with political intrigue and class conflict.
  • Fans of morally grey characters and found family dynamics in their stories.
  • Those who appreciate slow-burn romances with tension and banter between the leads.
  • Readers who like stories that explore themes of privilege, inequality and revolution.
  • Fans of elemental magic systems and unique takes on magical abilities.

Who is unlikely to appreciate this book?

  • Readers expecting a romance-heavy plot may be disappointed by the focus on politics and rebellion.
  • Those who dislike cliffhanger endings or unresolved plot threads.
  • Readers who prefer fast-paced stories may find the pacing too slow, especially early on.
  • Those who are sensitive to depictions of class inequality and oppression may find parts difficult.
  • Readers who want fully fleshed-out magic systems with clear rules may find this one underdeveloped.

Things online reviewers enjoyed about this book

  • Engaging plot with twists and turns that keep readers guessing
  • Well-developed world-building with an interesting magic system
  • Strong themes exploring class inequality and privilege
  • Compelling morally grey characters, especially Patrick Colson
  • Romantic tension and slow-burn relationship between main characters
  • Found family dynamics and strong side characters
  • Authentic dialogue and banter between characters
  • Vivid descriptions that bring the mining town setting to life
  • Explores complex themes of loyalty, betrayal and difficult choices
  • Sets up an intriguing class war/rebellion storyline

Things people didn't like as much about this book

  • Some found the pacing slow, especially in the beginning
  • Main female character Nina was frustrating or underdeveloped for some readers
  • Romantic relationship felt rushed or insta-love to some
  • Switching between first and third person POV was jarring for some readers
  • Some plot points and character motivations felt inconsistent or had holes
  • Heavy focus on politics/rebellion may not appeal to all romance readers
  • Ends on a cliffhanger which was unsatisfying for some
  • Magic system could have been more fully explained/developed
  • Some side characters like Theo were unlikable or underdeveloped
  • Marketing as romantasy may have set wrong expectations for romance content

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