We chat with author Stacey McEwan about A Forbidden Alchemy, which is a stunning slow-burn romantasy that follows a fated pair who uncover a world-changing secret and are thrust into a violent class war, navigating love, loss, and devastating betrayals.
Hi, Stacey! Can you tell our readers a bit about yourself?
I’m from the Gold Coast in Australia, born and bred, and still remain with my husband, two kids and a dog. I was a primary school teacher for eleven years before becoming a full-time author. I now spend most of my days being a part-time uber for my children, and a full time dorito-eater while I work on whatever flight of fancy I’m fixating on. I write fantasy romance and have for the past 17 years. My debut book, Ledge, first published in 2022.
When did you first discover your love for writing and stories?
I was always a big book worm as a kid, thanks to my very indulgent parents who were just happy, I think, that I was finally sitting still. The writing probably came along at the same time as my first heartbreak – at the age of eleven, wherein I journaled my devastation, and accidentally filled every page (I remain exactly this dramatic).
Your newest release, A FORBIDDEN ALCHEMY, is out July 1st 2025! If you could only describe it in five words, what would they be?
Gritty, tense, unreliable, romantic, heart-wrenching
What can readers expect?
This is a slow-burn adult fantasy romance with ALOT of tense moments, a clock winding down in the periphery, unreliable motives, and flawed characters galore.
Where did the inspiration for A FORBIDDEN ALCHEMY come from?
You can pick any of the world’s current events to find what might have inspired a story about a corrupt government system and a corresponding rebellion. The more eloquent answer is that I wanted to combine my love for war fiction with a dystopian-esque fantasy. I also have a small obsession with Peaky Blinders and couldn’t resist building a world that emulated that grittiness.
Were there any moments or characters you really enjoyed writing or exploring?
I adore Patrick Colson, and building the dynamics between him and his inner circle was so much fun. He has a certain ‘reluctant hero’ air about him, but he’ll also shoot someone in cold blood if the need arises. There’s never a dull moment with Patty.
Did you face any challenges whilst writing? How did you overcome them?
The usual suspects – pacing and plot holes. The two p’s from hell. I find I need time away from the manuscript when these things rear their heads. I like to step away and spend time puzzling it over. The solution always arrives if I’m patient.
What was the road to becoming a published author like for you?
My road to publishing was a little untraditional. I was planning to self-publish originally, but after gathering social media following, my agent found me, and then my first publishers: Angry Robot Books. It was a very quick ascension after many years of nothingness.
What’s next for you?
Book 2 in this series is currently in edits, and I’ll be starting book 3 very soon! After that, I intend to write more in this genre.
Lastly, what books are you looking forward to picking up this year?
My very talented friend, Kaven Hirning is releasing the final book in her trilogy this year. A Tormented Touch releases soon and I can’t wait to read it. I’m also really looking forward to reading The Knight and the Moth by Rachel Gillig.
