Distilled Magic: A Cozy Fantasy Novel

by Alex Peachy

Trinx’s father was insistent that she be a successful warrior son. After narrowly surviving a raid gone sideways, Trinx decides to spend a year away from her clan with an elder who cares for her and opens her eyes to who she could truly become.
She returns to Chubug as a transgender goblin woman, and with the help of her best friend who knew her from before, Trinx lands a job at the Arsonist’s Tender. However, coasting through life as a barmaid leaves her yearning for more than hiding behind dark-colored stockings and creative uses of a gelatinous cube.
Trinx seeks to change the clan for the better, to improve life not just for herself, but for others like her. Change doesn’t come easy as she hops from scheme to scheme before an alchemist takes her on as an apprentice. Potions and elixirs appear to give her all she is looking for, but Trinx must learn to look beyond herself if she hopes to bring about the change in the warren she ultimately desires.
By mixing together the right combination of ingredients and friends into a forged family, Trinx may succeed in building a better home than she ever dreamed possible.

Distilled Magic is a slice-of-life fantasy novel featuring a neurodivergent goblin, alchemical magic, dragonroot tea, found family, and the power of change.

Genres: Fantasy, Cozy, Cozy Fantasy

338 pages, Kindle Edition

Published March 4, 2025

Reviews

[HannahMReads · Rating 4 out of 5]

Peachy says he writes with warmth, whimsy, and magic, and I completely agree. Distilled Magic is a heartwarming story of a transgender goblin who is trying to better understand herself and improve the world for people who have faced similar obstacles as she has. This cozy fantasy is perfect if you’re looking for a comfort book that leaves you feeling hopeful. It doesn’t write off or minimize the hardships of the LGBTQ community but instead acknowledges them and shows encouragement through found family and learning to use your voice.

[Coby Chambers · Rating 5 out of 5]

Distilled Magic was a really entertaining read! Parts of the plot felt rushed at times, but it was easily made up for by the depth of character and world building! Even at fast paced moments, I was pulled into the world as if it was really happening in front of me. The ending was completely satisfying, and moments earlier in the story all pulled together in ways I hadn't expected to make a heartwarming, incredibly entertaining story. I'm excited to see what Alex Peachy writes next!

[Morgan · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thanks so much to Alex Peachy for accepting me on to his street team and sending me a copy of his book, Distilled Magic.

This was such a lovely cozy read and I really enjoyed following Trinx's journey as she looked for ways to help change her clan for the better. If you're looking for a cozy read that will bring you a lot of joy and that just makes you smile while reading I definitely recommend this one!

[S.W. Kent · Rating 5 out of 5]

At a time where positive, healthy, and trans inclusive stories are needed, this gem, by Peachy, is a bright spot of queer joy, nestled into the cozy fantasy genre. A heart warming tale about self-discovery and found family, the book uses the backdrop of a goblin society to explore Trinx, a transgender female goblin’s, journey, as she navigates the reality of staying true to herself, while role modeling positive change. All the warm tropes of cozy fantasy (taverns, teas, and scintillating meals) will play to your senses, and the messages will pull at your heart strings.

[Mossy Rooted Soil · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a lovely cozy read, I really enjoyed the journey with Trinx, her friends, her mentors, and the people within her community

The story is simple to follow, and not any less enjoyable for it. Watching the main character Trinx learn more about herself, make mistakes, and feel out how she wanted to move through the world was a treat. Seeing her community open up and support her, and how she supported her community right back... well, I definitely teared up a few times that's for sure. Trinx the relationship building alchemist!

There were so many lovely little moments of respite written in too, like when Trinx and her friends are just enjoying small warm meals, sweet snacks, yummy teas

I savored these small moments that sometimes get overlooked, in life or in stories. They definitely held an attentive, appreciated, special place In this one

I also found myself rolling my eyes, and smiling hard at many different points. Very silly stuff going on, goblin parody song lyrics that I groaned through. Punny behavior high there be forewarned lmao

Its an accessibly written read that I personally could see many age demographics enjoying too. I think especially neurodivergent and/or lgbtq+ readers would love to add this to their reading lists!

Delighted to have been an advanced reader, I'll be keeping an eye out for other works by this author

All in all, I think this is a wonderful story that I can definitely recommend to anyone hoping to unwind. Bring a little joy and reprieve into their days

I definitely feel like mine are a little bit fuller after reading this.

[Sara Lobkovich · Rating 5 out of 5]

I've been a beta reader for this author before and truly appreciated the little things (that are big things) about the way he writes the women in his books -- I offered to advance read this upcoming release even though cosy goblin fantasy isn't exactly my typical fiction genre. I'm so glad I did. I'm new to the "cosy" genre, and this hooked me. I'm very protective of my transgender friends and family, and went into the read skeptical about a book written by an author who is not trans themselves, but Alex did his homework here and the result is a book that both shares elements of the experience that people who don't fit the gender binary experience AND is accessible to readers from outside the community who wish to develop knowledge and empathy about the life experience of transgender goblins -- and humans.

I love the depth of the depiction of chosen family in this book ... for those of us who've built one, it's believable and really nice to see in writing. Readers will cringe with recognition when Trinx's naivety (and recognizable neurodivergence -- I highly relate) bites her, appreciate watching her inner strength and self-knowledge grow, and if they're anything like me, feel some feels when others in Trinx's life behave in ways that recognize Trinx's humanity -- I mean, goblin-ness -- by advocating for her, stepping in to her defense, and defaulting to support in circumstances where she creates problems for herself. I loved this read, and am looking forward to Alex's future releases.

[Tales with Atticus · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was everything I hope for when I reach for cozy fantasy: warm, kind, and full of heart. Trinx’s journey is deeply personal, but also universal in the way it speaks to change, growth, and the power of community. Watching her navigate mistakes, small victories, and moments of self-discovery felt so real and honest, and it made me root for her on every page.

The writing itself is gentle and inviting. There’s a care woven into the storytelling that made me feel safe as a reader, even when Trinx faced setbacks. The quiet moments especially stood out, the shared meals, tea, silly goblin songs, and small acts of care among friends. Those details grounded the story in comfort while still giving weight to the bigger themes of identity and chosen family.

What I loved most was the sense of kindness at the core of this book. It doesn’t shy away from challenges, but it always circles back to support, acceptance, and love. Trinx’s relationships, both the ones that push her and the ones that hold her up, made the story shine, and the found family element gave it such emotional resonance.

Distilled Magic is a reminder that stories don’t need to be epic in scale to be powerful. Sometimes the most meaningful tales are the ones that celebrate growth, community, and the quiet magic of being fully seen for who you are. For me, this was a five-star read, and one that left me feeling a little lighter, a little warmer, and a lot more hopeful.

[jov · Rating 4 out of 5]

A feel-good novel which takes you on Trinx's journey of what it means to make a difference!

it was written in an easy to read writing style that allowed me to binge the book :)
I like the thought behind all the worldbuilding throughout the book, from the system of mailing to inventions like Vash's eyelash product and Doc Puddlefoot’s Antireactionary Absorbant Alabaster Power, it makes the world feel more real and fleshed out
The diversity present in the characters and the different kinds of lives they lead, be it about their sexual orientations, about their decisions to live away from home or somewhere else, and the different ways people live their lives were great to see! Everybody leads different lives, and there's nothing wrong about that

I think it would be extra cool if there were excerpts from the alchemy books shown
I also would have loved to read about Quilka's first reaction to seeing Trinx after Trinx first returned

That said, i enjoyed this! Gristle is my favourite character as i always have a soft spot for characters who act tough on the outside but are actually softies deep down <3

[Jazmine Drebenstedt · Rating 3 out of 5]

I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review, this was not an ARC and this book is available now!

This was a good cozy fantasy! There are lots of tavern scenes and scenes in the alchemy store that really add to the cozy vibe.

I think the first few chapters would have been better separated as a prologue to the rest of the book due to how they seem more of a quick overview of Trinx's beginning, with bigger time jumps. And the book as a whole felt like a Trinx origin story that sets up future books.

Overall, I continually got annoyed with Trinx. She seems so immature, making rash decisions. One of the biggest examples being the sleep elixir. I enjoyed some of the other characters a bit more, though their dialogue with her felt almost like they were talking to a child.

I will definitely plan to check out Alex Peachy's next book, Social Sorcery. While I didn't love Trinx as much as I hoped, I really did enjoy some of the other characters and look forward to reading the next.

[Victoria Coots · Rating 3 out of 5]

I am reviewing this as an ARC, and my review is completely honest and voluntary.

I thought that this story was okay. It wasn't really for me as a reader of normally epic fantasy, and I didn't think it meant to be, and that is fine. I thought the premise was very interesting, but I didn't find the story incredibly compelling.

Part of that may be that the book wasn't really speaking to me, but I think it was more nuanced than that. The writing, for example, was fine, but it wasn't great. The writing style just didn't hold my attention, and I felt like the story could have had greater depth and complexity.

It could also be that cozy fantasy just isn't for me. I haven't read one before. I came to this after long stints reading epic fantasy. Overall, it was a fine story and I think people will enjoy it. It just wasn't my cup of tea, maybe I just thrive in the epic fantasy world. 3/5 stars.

[Elisabeth · Rating 5 out of 5]

This delightful story was my first foray into the cozy fantasy genre and I really enjoyed it. The heart of the story lies in Trinx, a transgender goblin whose unwavering determination and inventive problem-solving skills are endlessly entertaining. She consistently refuses to take 'no' for an answer, finding creative, if sometimes outlandish, solutions to her challenges. Along the way she gathers a great group of friends who don’t always agree with her methods, but alway have her back.

I really enjoyed the author’s description of how alchemy functions in this world, including the intricate formulations of potions and tonics, and the practical business aspects of how alchemists earn a living and safeguard their work.

Overall I loved this book and would recommend it to anyone looking for a light, heartwarming fantasy story.

[Margaret Riley · Rating 5 out of 5]

Distilled Magic by Alex Peachy was the coziest escape I didn’t know I needed. From the very first page, I was completely wrapped up in the warm, whimsical world Peachy created. The visual storytelling is so rich, it felt like I was stepping straight into a magical realm, every scent and shimmer coming to life off the page.

And uhm.. can we talk about Zigla? I adored every moment with her…she’s the kind of character that lingers with you, equal parts clever, comforting, and has a sense of kindness with quiet power and beauty. Her presence brought such charm and depth to the story, and I found myself looking forward to every scene she was in!!

If you’re craving a read that’s enchanting without being overwhelming, filled with vivid details and heartwarming moments, this one’s a must. It’s cozy magic at its finest and I 10/10 recommend to my fantasy loving friends!

[Kay Sparks · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was given the amazing opportunity to receive a free ARC copy of this book for my honest review.

Distilled Magic is a cozy fantasy following Trinx, a transgender goblin trying to find her true self and helping others along the way! I really love how Alex has created the different conflicts that Trinx has to navigate through. The way Alex has written the conflicting scenarios feel like actual scenarios that others might face while going through their transition journey.

It was a refreshing change seeing an author support the transgender community and try to make the book educational for people who might not understand being able to put themselves in Trinx’s shoes throughout her journey!

Overall, I highly recommend this book!

[Paul E Peachey · Rating 5 out of 5]

Good read by a new author

I knew this book was coming out and was anxious to see how the author developed the story line. The main character is Trinx, a transgender female goblin, who wants to change society so that people like her are accepted and treated with dignity and respect. I really got to know her and her friends during the course of the book. This is a topic that has become very controversial in today’s world, but I think Alex has done a great job in portraying the issues and problems faced by transgender people. It was a good read, and I would heartily recommend it even for people who don’t normally read fantasy. Happily Trinx exceeds even her own expectations in the end. Maybe I can touch bases with her again in the future!

[Jessi · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this book. The story was heartfelt and unique, and the last few pages absolutely gave me all the feels. I really connected with Trinx—her fidgeting, singular focus, and organization habits felt so familiar. Her journey as a transgender goblin trying to find her place and change her community was both moving and inspiring.

There were a few unanswered questions, but overall, I adored how different this story was. It’s a quiet, powerful tale about identity, growth, and found family. Distilled Magic is something special!

Thank you, Alex Peachy, for the opportunity to read this wonderfully cozy story.

[Ribbon · Rating 5 out of 5]

Distilled Magic tackles gender with fantasy world creativity, from alchemy experiments to the most unique use of gelatinous cubes I've ever seen. Goblin society is explored and we get delightful detail on fashion, food, and, of course, alchemy.

Trinx is the kind of protagonist who will make the wrong choice and charge headlong in that direction. The reader can see the red flags and mistakes and just has to wait for the fallout. But she has a good friend group and they help her bounce back. It's cozy fantasy, so rest assured things will work out in the end.

[Christy Skidmore · Rating 5 out of 5]

I went into this book completely blind, only knowing the title. Did I expect it to be about a trans goblin woman who stuffs her bra with the loot of slain slime monsters? Absolutely not. Did I love every second of it? ABSOLUTELY YES. While this book definitely lives up to its moniker of a 'cozy fantasy', it's full of real-world experiences and struggles. Trinx is an easy main character to connect with, no matter what you've been through in life. I so enjoyed reading about the magic, potions, and mystical characters. The ending was sooo sweet and satisfying. Highly recommend!

[Melissa Mimier King · Rating 5 out of 5]

I am not usually a fantasy fan, but I truly enjoyed this Advanced Reader Copy about how looking out for others can help you find yourself. I read it during both a snowstorm and a rainstorm, and it was the perfect "cozy" read that made me smile and sigh along with the charming characters. I look forward to sharing it with my 17-year-old twins as an example of the importance of community, but I would also share it with middle school friends who needed to see themselves in writing.

[Lina · Rating 4 out of 5]

I liked the world build and the various characters in this story. I liked how the character’s personal development was told. I wish there had been a bit more about the main character’s feelings on a deeper level.
The ending was a bit too much of a fairytale ending for me. I wish there had been more of a struggle and not solution after solution just appearing.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Susan Vanderlaan · Rating 4 out of 5]

What a great cozy read! Distilled magic follows a transgender goblin who is trying to find herself true self and ends up helping so many others along the way. Once she is shown love,care and compassion from Zigla another transgender woman she goes back to the Warren where she grew up and lives her best life and starts to help others in finding themselves and gives them a better life with love. This book was definitely written with so much love and compassion and it spills out onto the pages!

[LeeAnn · Rating 5 out of 5]

What an absolute triumph!

I got this book because it's cozy fantasy, which is honestly becoming my favorite subgenre.

But this book is more.

It's everything.

Found Family, a favorite trope.
Overcoming societal boundaries.
Magic.
Truth.
Tea.

And a haunted house with a secret dance club in the basement.

I adore Trinx. She's absolutely a delight.

"You always seem to have more words than there is time to get them out."

[Amanda · Rating 5 out of 5]

This story was wonderfully crafted and the characters feel unique and fit the story well. Trinx is endearing and her journey pulled me in. I love the balance in the story, there was the right amount of conflict and support in my opinion. I love I finished this book in record time. I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Crystal · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this pleasent cozy fantasy book. Coming of age with a strong chosen family, LGBTQ+ and neurodivergent. This book follows Trinx on an adventure/ journey where she shows incredible growth throughout. This book has great world-building and very likeable characters. I think a lot of people would enjoy this read, there is depth beyond its cozy look.

[Stevie · Rating 5 out of 5]

this is the wholesome, sweet, slice of life, optimistic, kindhearted, cozy fantasy of my dreams. it's rare I find a book I like so much I want to savor it, reading is slowly to prolong the enjoyment. if I could read this for years to come I would and it will definitely require rereads in the future.
Thank you for this story! I look forward to reading more from the author!

[Bo Huffman · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was such a hilarious, cozy read. I really enjoyed the magical world spun in this story, the goblin society that wonderfully mirrored our world. The characters were wonderfully crafted and made you really root for the main character. If you want a fun, quick read, I definitely recommend this one!

[Ashley Lewis · Rating 5 out of 5]

I absolutely loved every bit of this book. Be the change yoy want to see in the world. That is the best advice and way to live. Some things I was just sitting there waiting to happen bur when it did it was amazing. The story left me very conflicted I loved how it ended but certain areas i was hoping for more on, overall good book.

[Urszula · Rating 4 out of 5]

Well written and composed story. Great world building and interesting plot . Lots of emotions flying around and plot full of action twists and turns. Interesting social issues in a well created sociaty.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Nancy Tab · Rating 5 out of 5]

I'm new to cozy books but told myself to keep an open mind, and I'm glad I did! This is a fun read in-between epic fantasy. The story is in the details with this one, and I enjoyed taking my time reading it.

[Marie · Rating 4 out of 5]

It's a good story with interesting characters. It was not exactly my cup of tea.

[María Vasquez · Rating 4 out of 5]

distilled magic was such a heartwarming read it truly had everything i love in a cozy fantasy ✨ i adored the found family vibes and the little daily routines that made the world feel so soft and lived in 🪻 the representation in this story was so beautifully done too!! from the transgender rep to the mention of polyamory relationships, it all felt so tender and genuine 🌸 this book was written with so much love and care you can feel it in every single page and it honestly left me glowing with warmth and magic 🕯️