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The Artisan Trilogy #2
A Forsaken Prophecy
In a world of high-class magic and gangster grit, a star-crossed couple must decide where their loyalties lie in the sizzling romantasy follow-up to BookTok star Stacey McEwan’s New York Times bestseller A Forbidden Alchemy.
In Belavere Trench, the Artisans and the Craftsmen are at war. Patrick, the last Alchemist, and Nina, the world’s only known earth Charmer, have been captured by the Artisans, putting Patrick’s rebel union in a precarious position.
Though he hasn’t forgiven Nina her betrayals, Patrick has other things to worry about. He is finally reunited with his father, a prisoner of the Artisans, and the group lands a narrow escape only with the help of Nina’s first love, Theo. Decoding an ancient prophecy, they set off in search of an infinite supply of idium that will determine the course of the war, should it prove more than a myth. Fleeing across Craftsman towns on the brink, they will encounter old friends—and enemies—in search of answers.
In Belavere Trench, the Artisans and the Craftsmen are at war. Patrick, the last Alchemist, and Nina, the world’s only known earth Charmer, have been captured by the Artisans, putting Patrick’s rebel union in a precarious position.
Though he hasn’t forgiven Nina her betrayals, Patrick has other things to worry about. He is finally reunited with his father, a prisoner of the Artisans, and the group lands a narrow escape only with the help of Nina’s first love, Theo. Decoding an ancient prophecy, they set off in search of an infinite supply of idium that will determine the course of the war, should it prove more than a myth. Fleeing across Craftsman towns on the brink, they will encounter old friends—and enemies—in search of answers.
480 pages, Paperback
First published July 21, 2026
About the author
Stacey McEwan
12 books4,983 followersStacey McEwan lives in Queensland, Australia with her husband and two children. She is a teacher by day, writer by night.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 2,481 reviews
July 29, 2026
Holy plot twists and yearning Batman
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
DNF @ 33%. i want to say this is 100% a me thing but maybe it isn't.... but i simply do not care, at all. i had a lot of fun with book 1 and enjoyed the plot, the characters and the romance but reading this instalment felt like wading through mud.
i can’t really explain why but something about this had me feeling zero connection to the story or the characters, like it just completely flatlined. anything i did feel towards them evaporated, which made it really hard to get through even this much. it literally took me days to read barely 10%. the pacing felt so off and honestly i felt like not a lot was happening. also, bare in mind i picked this up less than 3 weeks after finishing book 1 and i still had to rack my brains for what was happening. it was almost like nothing was sticking.
i think if you absolutely adored book 1 then i’m sure you’ll enjoy this one but i’m really disappointed as i expected this to be another enjoyable and fun read. to be honest i can’t even say it’s unenjoyable just very meh, boring & everything started to drag very early on. after the ending of book 1, i expected more than what i got from even the first 33% (which was basically not a lot at all). i can acknowledge i only read 1/3 of this book however, for book 2, i would expect some more development at this stage. i felt like we barely moved forward from the end of book 1 in the whole 33% i read.
as i made the choice to DNF, i can a quick look at some lower ratings and others who felt the same was as me seem to feel like the whole book suffers from poor pacing so i can’t imagine i’d disagree. i also feel validated cause i genuinely spent a few days thinking i was the issue and i just had to keep reading.
ultimately there was nothing special or interesting about this. if you weren’t completely obsessed with book 1, i really think you could struggle with this one as well. i can completely appreciate the idea behind this storyline, it just wasn’t executed in a way that worked for me. apparently the ending of this is really good but i’m not dragging myself through a long ass book to get to it. nothing makes me more grumpy than a book that gives nothing just to deliver a great ending - usually i end up too disconnected to care. so i am taking myself away from this one. unfortunately i wont be continuing this series. of course this is just my experience and my opinion and we all had different experiences with books - so i’m sure the right people will absolutely love this.
i decided to move this to 1 star cause my rule is, if i want to rate a DNF then it's 1 star so here we are. and i debated rating it at all but in the end i decided too - i know rating DNFs can make some people uncomfortable but this is a readers space and my aim isn’t to come across as mean, it’s just how i personally feel.
this is probs going to be a very unpopular opinion but i am always going to keep my thoughts 100% honest. but life is too short to force myself through something that is going to feel like a waste of time and i know myself, if this is how i feel now - there is no way i am going to suddenly be obsessed with it.
________
thank you simon & schuster australia for the e-arc (via netgalley) in exchange for an honest review!
i can’t really explain why but something about this had me feeling zero connection to the story or the characters, like it just completely flatlined. anything i did feel towards them evaporated, which made it really hard to get through even this much. it literally took me days to read barely 10%. the pacing felt so off and honestly i felt like not a lot was happening. also, bare in mind i picked this up less than 3 weeks after finishing book 1 and i still had to rack my brains for what was happening. it was almost like nothing was sticking.
i think if you absolutely adored book 1 then i’m sure you’ll enjoy this one but i’m really disappointed as i expected this to be another enjoyable and fun read. to be honest i can’t even say it’s unenjoyable just very meh, boring & everything started to drag very early on. after the ending of book 1, i expected more than what i got from even the first 33% (which was basically not a lot at all). i can acknowledge i only read 1/3 of this book however, for book 2, i would expect some more development at this stage. i felt like we barely moved forward from the end of book 1 in the whole 33% i read.
as i made the choice to DNF, i can a quick look at some lower ratings and others who felt the same was as me seem to feel like the whole book suffers from poor pacing so i can’t imagine i’d disagree. i also feel validated cause i genuinely spent a few days thinking i was the issue and i just had to keep reading.
ultimately there was nothing special or interesting about this. if you weren’t completely obsessed with book 1, i really think you could struggle with this one as well. i can completely appreciate the idea behind this storyline, it just wasn’t executed in a way that worked for me. apparently the ending of this is really good but i’m not dragging myself through a long ass book to get to it. nothing makes me more grumpy than a book that gives nothing just to deliver a great ending - usually i end up too disconnected to care. so i am taking myself away from this one. unfortunately i wont be continuing this series. of course this is just my experience and my opinion and we all had different experiences with books - so i’m sure the right people will absolutely love this.
i decided to move this to 1 star cause my rule is, if i want to rate a DNF then it's 1 star so here we are. and i debated rating it at all but in the end i decided too - i know rating DNFs can make some people uncomfortable but this is a readers space and my aim isn’t to come across as mean, it’s just how i personally feel.
this is probs going to be a very unpopular opinion but i am always going to keep my thoughts 100% honest. but life is too short to force myself through something that is going to feel like a waste of time and i know myself, if this is how i feel now - there is no way i am going to suddenly be obsessed with it.
________
thank you simon & schuster australia for the e-arc (via netgalley) in exchange for an honest review!
February 17, 2026
“Bury them all” 🪦
Oh, you thought book 1 buried you with plot twists? Book 2 literally tears a seam down the middle of the world and pushes you in so you can’t climb back up.
“How could I tell him that I was every bit as terrible as he feared and still have him love me in the end?”
After the deepest level of betrayal, Nina and Patrick navigate a path (or should I say tunnel?) covered in glass. The pain is real, the cuts are deep. Two shattered hearts trying to figure out if they can piece themselves back together again. The growth, THE TENSION and the longing had me on the edge of my seat. PLUS we have Theo stirring the pot!
“I think you and I . . .we’re meant to carry on as we are. Broken parts and all.”
I will die on the hill that Patrick is Tommy Shelby.
Can we please bring suspenders back? The loyalty this man has for his family, his town, the ones he loves - it’s unmatched!
Book 2 also expands the world, that crazy network of underground tunnels all lead to towns that get to to be explored! As the characters get pulled to different locations we also get to learn more about the history & origin of magic. Be prepared, there are so many insane twists! Theo, Polly, John, Rose.. arrghh I can’t!
I honestly can’t wait for book 3! I’m not ready to leave this world so I’m diving into a re-read of book 1 🙌🏼
—-
“If I was a knife, then I could rip and slash and gouge until the aching ebbed. It wasn’t idium I wanted. It was revenge.”
“Patrick’s eyes had always been a danger to me. One glance, and I was swallowed”
Oh, you thought book 1 buried you with plot twists? Book 2 literally tears a seam down the middle of the world and pushes you in so you can’t climb back up.
“How could I tell him that I was every bit as terrible as he feared and still have him love me in the end?”
After the deepest level of betrayal, Nina and Patrick navigate a path (or should I say tunnel?) covered in glass. The pain is real, the cuts are deep. Two shattered hearts trying to figure out if they can piece themselves back together again. The growth, THE TENSION and the longing had me on the edge of my seat. PLUS we have Theo stirring the pot!
“I think you and I . . .we’re meant to carry on as we are. Broken parts and all.”
I will die on the hill that Patrick is Tommy Shelby.
Can we please bring suspenders back? The loyalty this man has for his family, his town, the ones he loves - it’s unmatched!
Book 2 also expands the world, that crazy network of underground tunnels all lead to towns that get to to be explored! As the characters get pulled to different locations we also get to learn more about the history & origin of magic. Be prepared, there are so many insane twists! Theo, Polly, John, Rose.. arrghh I can’t!
I honestly can’t wait for book 3! I’m not ready to leave this world so I’m diving into a re-read of book 1 🙌🏼
—-
“If I was a knife, then I could rip and slash and gouge until the aching ebbed. It wasn’t idium I wanted. It was revenge.”
“Patrick’s eyes had always been a danger to me. One glance, and I was swallowed”
Review of advance copy
Stoooppp. I need book 3 right now!
FULL REVIEW TO FOLLOW
My Allurial box just arrived and she is so beautiful 🤩
A Forbidden Alchemy was one of my top 10 romantasy/fantasy books from last year. I’m jumping right in!
FULL REVIEW TO FOLLOW
My Allurial box just arrived and she is so beautiful 🤩
A Forbidden Alchemy was one of my top 10 romantasy/fantasy books from last year. I’m jumping right in!
July 23, 2026
“You can’t start a revolution without plannin’ for the downfall.”
It’s been a hectic couple of weeks, so my review might be all over the place. This is one of those stories that makes me incensed in a way that snuck up on me. Not at the author (Stacey, I love you). But at the way the injustices and cruelty feels like a mirror to some of the inequities we see in actual life. You know, I’m talking about one set of people committing blatant atrocities against another set because they believe they are more deserving of certain resources that make them “superior.”
Stacey has managed creating a softer FMC in Nina who has been dealt a wretched hand in life, one who found herself an outsider in the land of Artisans but still tried to make herself fit, and given her rage and a thirst for vengeance without making her spiteful or hard. In book one we saw her caught between the Artisans and the Crafters, not fitting into either world, but used by both. I suppose initially she still is being used here for her singular magic of wielding earth, but this time at least it feels like her choice.
I think one of my favorite aspects of this series is that the characters are all so flawed, which was evident from the get go, but in this second book the layers go even deeper. Nina was always easy for me to root for, as someone who wanted a better life, as someone who wanted to make her mother’s sacrifice count, and someone who didn’t initially fully align with the violence of either the Artisans or the Crafters. But people can only be threatened and used and discarded so many times before they either give up or fight back. And Nina rises to the challenge.
Patrick feels just as conflicted, as indomitable yet hopelessly in love, a champion for Nina and the freedom of all Crafters. The responsibility he shoulders to fight for equality is so unbearable heavy, and yet he never seems to falter. He has to make decisions that would probably crush most, but he is so honorable and duty bound to fight for what’s right even when he stands to lose, it’s heartbreaking to think of the hopeful and confident 12 year old we saw a glimpse of in the first book.
And I think that’s what makes the characters in this series so compelling. We see the different ways people hold up (or don’t) under the pressure of oppression, misogyny, poverty, and even the expectation to hold onto power at any cost. We see what desperation does to people who are stuck in roles defined by a class system which reinforces disparity.
Personally, I love the way Stacey writes. There’s something about her prose, the dialogue, and her characters that really makes me feel the intensity of their emotions, and empathize with being in their shoes.
I’m not even sure if this review gives a true picture of what this story is about, but you can probably read the blurb for that. I just know that the ending left me feeling angry, and kind of sick to my stomach. But sometimes things get worse before they get better…right?
“There ain’t a god. Just a world full of terrible people.”
~~~~~~~~~~~~
Pre-read: if Patrick Colson were to make a grocery list I’m pretty sure it would contain whiskey and cigarettes. I’m also hoping for forgiveness and confessions of undying love 😏
It’s been a hectic couple of weeks, so my review might be all over the place. This is one of those stories that makes me incensed in a way that snuck up on me. Not at the author (Stacey, I love you). But at the way the injustices and cruelty feels like a mirror to some of the inequities we see in actual life. You know, I’m talking about one set of people committing blatant atrocities against another set because they believe they are more deserving of certain resources that make them “superior.”
Stacey has managed creating a softer FMC in Nina who has been dealt a wretched hand in life, one who found herself an outsider in the land of Artisans but still tried to make herself fit, and given her rage and a thirst for vengeance without making her spiteful or hard. In book one we saw her caught between the Artisans and the Crafters, not fitting into either world, but used by both. I suppose initially she still is being used here for her singular magic of wielding earth, but this time at least it feels like her choice.
I think one of my favorite aspects of this series is that the characters are all so flawed, which was evident from the get go, but in this second book the layers go even deeper. Nina was always easy for me to root for, as someone who wanted a better life, as someone who wanted to make her mother’s sacrifice count, and someone who didn’t initially fully align with the violence of either the Artisans or the Crafters. But people can only be threatened and used and discarded so many times before they either give up or fight back. And Nina rises to the challenge.
Patrick feels just as conflicted, as indomitable yet hopelessly in love, a champion for Nina and the freedom of all Crafters. The responsibility he shoulders to fight for equality is so unbearable heavy, and yet he never seems to falter. He has to make decisions that would probably crush most, but he is so honorable and duty bound to fight for what’s right even when he stands to lose, it’s heartbreaking to think of the hopeful and confident 12 year old we saw a glimpse of in the first book.
And I think that’s what makes the characters in this series so compelling. We see the different ways people hold up (or don’t) under the pressure of oppression, misogyny, poverty, and even the expectation to hold onto power at any cost. We see what desperation does to people who are stuck in roles defined by a class system which reinforces disparity.
Personally, I love the way Stacey writes. There’s something about her prose, the dialogue, and her characters that really makes me feel the intensity of their emotions, and empathize with being in their shoes.
I’m not even sure if this review gives a true picture of what this story is about, but you can probably read the blurb for that. I just know that the ending left me feeling angry, and kind of sick to my stomach. But sometimes things get worse before they get better…right?
“There ain’t a god. Just a world full of terrible people.”
~~~~~~~~~~~~
Pre-read: if Patrick Colson were to make a grocery list I’m pretty sure it would contain whiskey and cigarettes. I’m also hoping for forgiveness and confessions of undying love 😏
July 15, 2026
3⭐️ I was anticipating this to be a 4.5-5⭐️ read, so I'm really disappointed that it didn’t live up to my expectations! While the world-building is one of the series’ greatest strengths (think elemental magic wielders, class divisions, and gangster/mafia influences), there wasn’t nearly as much plot movement compared to the first book.
My biggest critique, however, lies with our FMC, Nina. I was REALLY hoping to see more character growth from her. In the first book, I found her very passive, often struggling to make her own decisions or stand up for what she believed in. I expected the sequel to showcase more of her individuality and confidence, but she still remained a very bland character.
In contrast, our MMC, Patrick, continues to be a sarcastic and charming smooth-talker. It was so entertaining watching him fight his feelings for Nina while also being ridiculously overprotective of her. This man is probably the only reason I actually finished the book.
Overall, if you loved the first book like I did, there is a chance you may still enjoy the sequel. But if you didn’t care much for the first book, I wouldn’t expect this to change your mind about the series.
My biggest critique, however, lies with our FMC, Nina. I was REALLY hoping to see more character growth from her. In the first book, I found her very passive, often struggling to make her own decisions or stand up for what she believed in. I expected the sequel to showcase more of her individuality and confidence, but she still remained a very bland character.
In contrast, our MMC, Patrick, continues to be a sarcastic and charming smooth-talker. It was so entertaining watching him fight his feelings for Nina while also being ridiculously overprotective of her. This man is probably the only reason I actually finished the book.
Overall, if you loved the first book like I did, there is a chance you may still enjoy the sequel. But if you didn’t care much for the first book, I wouldn’t expect this to change your mind about the series.
July 23, 2026
4.5 🌟 “𝘛𝘩𝘢𝘵 𝘪𝘵 𝘸𝘢𝘴 𝘵𝘰𝘰 𝘭𝘢𝘵𝘦. 𝘛𝘩𝘢𝘵 𝘭𝘰𝘷𝘦 𝘩𝘢𝘥 𝘢𝘭𝘳𝘦𝘢𝘥𝘺 𝘪𝘯𝘷𝘢𝘥𝘦𝘥 𝘩𝘪𝘮, 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘵𝘳𝘺 𝘢𝘴 𝘩𝘦 𝘮𝘪𝘨𝘩𝘵 𝘩𝘦 𝘤𝘰𝘶𝘭𝘥𝘯’𝘵 𝘣𝘢𝘯𝘪𝘴𝘩 𝘪𝘵.”
PATRICK MF COLSON 🥵🥵 that’s it. that’s the review!!
no but really…
the tension
the banter
the loyalty
the YEARNING
fucking amazing!!!
“𝙰𝚗𝚍 𝚏𝚘𝚛 𝚝𝚑𝚎 𝚜𝚎𝚌𝚘𝚗𝚍 𝚝𝚒𝚖𝚎 𝚒𝚗 𝚊𝚜 𝚖𝚊𝚗𝚢 𝚍𝚊𝚢𝚜, 𝚔𝚗𝚎𝚕𝚝 𝚋𝚎𝚏𝚘𝚛𝚎 𝚑𝚎𝚛 𝚕𝚒𝚔𝚎 𝚊 𝚍𝚊𝚖𝚗𝚎𝚍 𝚊𝚌𝚘𝚕𝚢𝚝𝚎.“
the romance in this is TOP TIER.
and Nina i love how her character is developing especially towards the end of the book ily queen 💟
the world once again had me completely immersed. i love the mafia/gangster vibes, think peaky blinders but with the elemental magic.
i also enjoyed learning more about the world + the magic. the plot was soo GOOOD. the added povs were such a great addition to the story. minus those Theo chapters 🤣🤣 the sigh i would let out when i flipped the page and saw his name
OHH AND THAT ENDING. SPIRALING BRB GONNA GO STARE AT THE WALL ?????!!!!!!? truly criminal WHAT SHALL ONE DO NOW STACEY!!!!!! 😭😭😭😭😭
PATRICK MF COLSON 🥵🥵 that’s it. that’s the review!!
no but really…
the tension
the banter
the loyalty
the YEARNING
fucking amazing!!!
“𝙰𝚗𝚍 𝚏𝚘𝚛 𝚝𝚑𝚎 𝚜𝚎𝚌𝚘𝚗𝚍 𝚝𝚒𝚖𝚎 𝚒𝚗 𝚊𝚜 𝚖𝚊𝚗𝚢 𝚍𝚊𝚢𝚜, 𝚔𝚗𝚎𝚕𝚝 𝚋𝚎𝚏𝚘𝚛𝚎 𝚑𝚎𝚛 𝚕𝚒𝚔𝚎 𝚊 𝚍𝚊𝚖𝚗𝚎𝚍 𝚊𝚌𝚘𝚕𝚢𝚝𝚎.“
the romance in this is TOP TIER.
and Nina i love how her character is developing especially towards the end of the book ily queen 💟
the world once again had me completely immersed. i love the mafia/gangster vibes, think peaky blinders but with the elemental magic.
i also enjoyed learning more about the world + the magic. the plot was soo GOOOD. the added povs were such a great addition to the story. minus those Theo chapters 🤣🤣 the sigh i would let out when i flipped the page and saw his name
OHH AND THAT ENDING. SPIRALING BRB GONNA GO STARE AT THE WALL ?????!!!!!!? truly criminal WHAT SHALL ONE DO NOW STACEY!!!!!! 😭😭😭😭😭
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
HUGE thanks to NetGalley & Simon & Schuster Canada for a chance to review this arc!!
« Not all of us were born in this city. You had the advantage of waltzing through your childhood. Most of us crawled through it kicking and screaming. »
A Forsaken Prophecy was a much better reading experience for me than its predecessor. The writing had a perfect flow and I didn’t want to put this down for at least 80%. The characters were more believable and consistent in their actions. I found myself warming up to Theo, which wasn’t something I expected after reading the first instalment. In terms of character development, I’d give this sequel 4.5/5 ; new lights & layers were added to the characters that made them more human and easier to sympathize for.
The only thing I struggled with has to do with the plot… because I wondered why was it that they walked into every possible trap along the way. Patrick lost a bit of his wits in this one ; but one could argue that he had a lot on his plate and I would agree. I saw every twist coming but I do have an over analytic brain so it might be on me ; it didn’t hinder my reading experience.
This series doesn’t shy away from its darkness and that’s something I can also appreciate. I grew in extreme poverty and I find it’s not always a topic every author can grasp but Stacey McEwan can definitely grasp a lot of its complexity. I appreciated that she went more into depth with that topic in this sequel.
« Sometimes I want to tear off my own skin. I feel so angry. »
Now the strong suit of this novel is definitely the romance. He loves her so much that despite all she put him through, her safety still comes first and that is something I burn for. The slow burn and longing were just right. I read this author’s previous trilogy and I find she writes the best romances.
This was a good reading experience for me ; I liked this sequel and I’m excited for what’s to come in the last one.
« I was more afraid of being a child again than anything else. »
« Not all of us were born in this city. You had the advantage of waltzing through your childhood. Most of us crawled through it kicking and screaming. »
A Forsaken Prophecy was a much better reading experience for me than its predecessor. The writing had a perfect flow and I didn’t want to put this down for at least 80%. The characters were more believable and consistent in their actions. I found myself warming up to Theo, which wasn’t something I expected after reading the first instalment. In terms of character development, I’d give this sequel 4.5/5 ; new lights & layers were added to the characters that made them more human and easier to sympathize for.
The only thing I struggled with has to do with the plot… because I wondered why was it that they walked into every possible trap along the way. Patrick lost a bit of his wits in this one ; but one could argue that he had a lot on his plate and I would agree. I saw every twist coming but I do have an over analytic brain so it might be on me ; it didn’t hinder my reading experience.
This series doesn’t shy away from its darkness and that’s something I can also appreciate. I grew in extreme poverty and I find it’s not always a topic every author can grasp but Stacey McEwan can definitely grasp a lot of its complexity. I appreciated that she went more into depth with that topic in this sequel.
« Sometimes I want to tear off my own skin. I feel so angry. »
Now the strong suit of this novel is definitely the romance. He loves her so much that despite all she put him through, her safety still comes first and that is something I burn for. The slow burn and longing were just right. I read this author’s previous trilogy and I find she writes the best romances.
This was a good reading experience for me ; I liked this sequel and I’m excited for what’s to come in the last one.
« I was more afraid of being a child again than anything else. »
August 22, 2025
Literally need this in my hands yesterday. It's been two months and I'm still thinking about book one. I miss Patty.
Ngl, while I am not surprised bc AFA is phenomenal and deserves a million NG requests for AFP, the NetGalley denial stung a little bit for this one BUT Saga is a real one for sending that sampler. I am SO stoked and I cannot wait for Summer to get my hands on this book!!!
*✧: ･ﾟ: *✧･ﾟ:*✧･ﾟ: *✧･ﾟ:*✧･ﾟ: *✧･ﾟ:*✧: ･ﾟ:✧*
Me after seeing the cover reveal and reading that cosmo exclusive chapter sneak today
Ngl, while I am not surprised bc AFA is phenomenal and deserves a million NG requests for AFP, the NetGalley denial stung a little bit for this one BUT Saga is a real one for sending that sampler. I am SO stoked and I cannot wait for Summer to get my hands on this book!!!
*✧: ･ﾟ: *✧･ﾟ:*✧･ﾟ: *✧･ﾟ:*✧･ﾟ: *✧･ﾟ:*✧: ･ﾟ:✧*
Me after seeing the cover reveal and reading that cosmo exclusive chapter sneak today
July 8, 2026
Immersive. High-stakes. Cinematic. Haunting.
'A long-lost myth. A ruinous betrayal. An earth-shattering alchemy.'
I loved the many layers of this story, set in the Belavere Trench with the Artisans and the Craftsmen at war, with a society divided by power. I enjoyed Patrick even more in this story and the ending has me very eager to read book 3.
'You didn't get what you deserved, you got whatever was handed down by those more powerful. You lost what you weren't willing to take.'
My physical copy is gorgeous! The cover is divine and the sprayed edges are going to be one of the favourites on my bookshelf.
'A long-lost myth. A ruinous betrayal. An earth-shattering alchemy.'
I loved the many layers of this story, set in the Belavere Trench with the Artisans and the Craftsmen at war, with a society divided by power. I enjoyed Patrick even more in this story and the ending has me very eager to read book 3.
'You didn't get what you deserved, you got whatever was handed down by those more powerful. You lost what you weren't willing to take.'
My physical copy is gorgeous! The cover is divine and the sprayed edges are going to be one of the favourites on my bookshelf.
March 15, 2026
oh I just LOVED this!!!!!
July 24, 2026
⋆˙⟡ ── ʀᴀᴛɪɴɢ 3.25⭐️
This was such a highly anticipated read for me, but it unfortunately fell flat. I started..confused. I wasn’t quite sure what was happening and why. Patrick (and surprisingly Theo) were the only redeeming factors (and characters who kept this story interesting) for me. I feel like the addition of this “prophecy” wasn’t fully fleshed out. It felt like we were on a wild goose chase the entire book and didn’t even get a sense of relief in the end. Though I almost DNF’d this, I am still mildly curious on how this trilogy ends so..see you next year I guess.
This was such a highly anticipated read for me, but it unfortunately fell flat. I started..confused. I wasn’t quite sure what was happening and why. Patrick (and surprisingly Theo) were the only redeeming factors (and characters who kept this story interesting) for me. I feel like the addition of this “prophecy” wasn’t fully fleshed out. It felt like we were on a wild goose chase the entire book and didn’t even get a sense of relief in the end. Though I almost DNF’d this, I am still mildly curious on how this trilogy ends so..see you next year I guess.
March 7, 2026
“You seein’ this shithole?” “I’m blind, cockhead.”
Donny strikes again! Possibly my fav side character ever! He gives Carrion a run for his money.
This book picked right up where it left off, and that was in a gut wrenching scene, the emotions were high reading through this story with the hurt, anger, betrayal, the heartbreak, the quests and the friendships!
“War was a gentlemen’s game. Women were just the currency”
The blue balls the slow burn gave me were big! Stacey, you’ve ruined me for all other men. No one will ever compare to Patrick!!!!!
“When you look up at me like that, darlin’,” he said in warning, “it’s like darin’ me to ruin you.
Thankyou to netgalley for this arc.
Donny strikes again! Possibly my fav side character ever! He gives Carrion a run for his money.
This book picked right up where it left off, and that was in a gut wrenching scene, the emotions were high reading through this story with the hurt, anger, betrayal, the heartbreak, the quests and the friendships!
“War was a gentlemen’s game. Women were just the currency”
The blue balls the slow burn gave me were big! Stacey, you’ve ruined me for all other men. No one will ever compare to Patrick!!!!!
“When you look up at me like that, darlin’,” he said in warning, “it’s like darin’ me to ruin you.
Thankyou to netgalley for this arc.
July 24, 2026
Congratulations to the cover designer. They carried this whole book.
I’ve had more exciting grocery lists…
I’ve had more exciting grocery lists…
July 31, 2026
I could not put this book down from start to finish. The writing was amazing, there was constant action and revelations that kept the plot propelling forward, there were interesting and complicated characters I couldn’t wait to learn more about, and a whole lot of yearning. Loved the politics and schemes as well.
The end really messed me up though - I need the next book ASAP.
While I love the FMC Nina Harrow, the MMC Patrick Colson is the star of the show for me. What a brilliantly written character full of nuance and emotion. And his possessiveness and flirting… I was kicking my feet throughout the whole book!!
I’m sooo happy this sequel didn’t disappoint. Needless to say, I’m sat for the final instalment.
The end really messed me up though - I need the next book ASAP.
While I love the FMC Nina Harrow, the MMC Patrick Colson is the star of the show for me. What a brilliantly written character full of nuance and emotion. And his possessiveness and flirting… I was kicking my feet throughout the whole book!!
I’m sooo happy this sequel didn’t disappoint. Needless to say, I’m sat for the final instalment.
July 23, 2026
1⭐️
478 pages later and all I have to show for this book is... a whole lot of nothing???? I loved the first book in this series but it was very clear the author was not at all inspired to write this book. There was somehow so much and yet, so little of actual importance that reading the thing felt like a waste of time.
To start... 3+ new POV's were introduced that added absolutely nothing to the story. The plot was "treasure island" with some gallivanting around the continent. Nina had the personality of a limp noodle other than these men being obsessed with her. She was not at all an FMC I wanted to root for or even related to. She spent the whole book being told what to do / being used a prop by the men in her life. Theo's desperation was honestly pathetic, and the book on a whole was genuinely so. so. boring.
All of the cool reveals and the vibes/aura of book 1 completely disappeared, and even the writing style felt soulless and overly verbose. It was approximately 200 pages too long. Where was the romance, the intrigue, the absolute old school gangster vibes of the Colsons from AFA?!??!?!?!
I continually oscillated between wanting to DNF and wanting to see if MAYBE, just MAYBE something interesting would happen. Unfortunately I was left waiting for the entirety of the book. This felt like such a cash grab and was definitely a letdown... I'm not sure I'm even going to continue the rest of the series.
TLDR; I'm disappointed beyond belief.
478 pages later and all I have to show for this book is... a whole lot of nothing???? I loved the first book in this series but it was very clear the author was not at all inspired to write this book. There was somehow so much and yet, so little of actual importance that reading the thing felt like a waste of time.
To start... 3+ new POV's were introduced that added absolutely nothing to the story. The plot was "treasure island" with some gallivanting around the continent. Nina had the personality of a limp noodle other than these men being obsessed with her. She was not at all an FMC I wanted to root for or even related to. She spent the whole book being told what to do / being used a prop by the men in her life. Theo's desperation was honestly pathetic, and the book on a whole was genuinely so. so. boring.
All of the cool reveals and the vibes/aura of book 1 completely disappeared, and even the writing style felt soulless and overly verbose. It was approximately 200 pages too long. Where was the romance, the intrigue, the absolute old school gangster vibes of the Colsons from AFA?!??!?!?!
I continually oscillated between wanting to DNF and wanting to see if MAYBE, just MAYBE something interesting would happen. Unfortunately I was left waiting for the entirety of the book. This felt like such a cash grab and was definitely a letdown... I'm not sure I'm even going to continue the rest of the series.
TLDR; I'm disappointed beyond belief.
November 3, 2025
3.5 stars
I loved the first 25%! Which was action packed and filled with angst and drama! However, the middle dragged. I just wish we didn’t spend so much time on the love triangle between Nina, Patrick, and Theo. It made Nina seem very wishy washy and it just made Theo look pathetic and annoying 🫠
The villains were very mustache twirly. I couldn’t stand Patrick’s dad. I know that was the point, but he really got on my nerves!
Patrick was perfect, no notes ❤️
The ending was very meh. I’ll still read book 3, but it won’t be a most anticipated read of the year for next year for me.
I loved the first 25%! Which was action packed and filled with angst and drama! However, the middle dragged. I just wish we didn’t spend so much time on the love triangle between Nina, Patrick, and Theo. It made Nina seem very wishy washy and it just made Theo look pathetic and annoying 🫠
The villains were very mustache twirly. I couldn’t stand Patrick’s dad. I know that was the point, but he really got on my nerves!
Patrick was perfect, no notes ❤️
The ending was very meh. I’ll still read book 3, but it won’t be a most anticipated read of the year for next year for me.
August 12, 2026
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ and they are all for Patrick Colson.
This is the kind of tension I want to see in every series that uses a betrayal trope- absolute perfection. The fallout was handled without rushing to instant forgiveness, while still making it clear that the care and love between them didn’t simply disappear.
Great world-building, great character development, especially from Nina, great romance. Let me say it one more time: FIVE STARS AND THEY ARE ALL FOR PATRICK COLSON.
Will be chomping at the bit for book 3.
This is the kind of tension I want to see in every series that uses a betrayal trope- absolute perfection. The fallout was handled without rushing to instant forgiveness, while still making it clear that the care and love between them didn’t simply disappear.
Great world-building, great character development, especially from Nina, great romance. Let me say it one more time: FIVE STARS AND THEY ARE ALL FOR PATRICK COLSON.
Will be chomping at the bit for book 3.
September 19, 2026
Listen, a lot of my favorite series have had sequels released this year that left me SO disappointed. So, I was honestly scared to pick this one up because I loved A Forbidden Alchemy so much, and I was terrified this was going to be the book that ruined the series for me.
BUT IT ABSOLUTELY ATE. 😭
The yearning in this is to die for. Everything Patrick Colston does makes me absolutely melt. The plot is SO good, and I am truly and thoroughly invested in everything happening.
I cannot WAIT for Book 3. 😭
BUT IT ABSOLUTELY ATE. 😭
The yearning in this is to die for. Everything Patrick Colston does makes me absolutely melt. The plot is SO good, and I am truly and thoroughly invested in everything happening.
I cannot WAIT for Book 3. 😭
July 23, 2026
I love the author but this book is unfortunately a typical boring book 2 and could’ve been an email.
August 11, 2026
I LOVED A Forbidden Alchemy, but I struggled with this one. I think it might be a case of being a bridge book/second book in a trilogy. Patrick had some great one-liners. Despite thinking this was a little slow I will definitely be reading the third book when it comes out to find out what happens to Nina and Patrick.
July 21, 2026
YES YES YES 👏👏
This was a very anticipated read for me this year and SHE DID NOT DISAPPOINT!!
This is such a fabulous balance for book 2 with expanding the world, characters and the romance!!
Oh Patrick 😮💨 I seriously love them so much, every interaction I was melting 🫠
I love the lingo, we still have the peaky blinder vibes and some wild twists!!
I can’t wait for book 3, I know this ending is going to be so epic 😆♥️
This was a very anticipated read for me this year and SHE DID NOT DISAPPOINT!!
This is such a fabulous balance for book 2 with expanding the world, characters and the romance!!
Oh Patrick 😮💨 I seriously love them so much, every interaction I was melting 🫠
I love the lingo, we still have the peaky blinder vibes and some wild twists!!
I can’t wait for book 3, I know this ending is going to be so epic 😆♥️
March 9, 2026
This starts off so strong — literally picking up right where the last book left us, which I always love in a sequel. It immediately pulled me back into the story and the world.
One of the big changes in this book is that we get quite a few new POVs. The first book was just Patrick and Nina, so it was interesting to see the story open up to other characters. I’m not totally convinced the extra perspectives added a huge amount overall, but they were still a welcome addition and helped flesh out the wider world.
Around the 40–60% mark the pacing dipped a little and things slowed down. Personally I didn’t mind too much because there were some really lovely moments tucked into that section — little bits of absolute gold. Miss Trunk, the old woman who can only communicate through piano in her antiques shop, was such a standout character. And Polly discovering all the letters Otto had sent her after she betrayed everyone? That moment hit so well. There were some real gems in this book — I just wanted even more of them.
Patrick and Nina still completely have my heart. I adore them and I’m desperately hoping we get even more of them in book three. And Donny’s wit was such a welcome reprieve during some of the heavier parts of the story — I loved every time he showed up.
The prophecy about the three daughters was such an interesting concept, but I do think it could have been a bit clearer. I kept expecting some big reveal — like Nina being an ancestor or somehow holding the powers of all three sisters — something that tied it all together in a bigger way. Because of that, parts of the book did feel a little bit like a bridge or filler book in the series.
That said, I still thoroughly enjoyed it and the yearning was absolutely on point.
I will 100% be picking up book three — honestly I cannot wait!
One of the big changes in this book is that we get quite a few new POVs. The first book was just Patrick and Nina, so it was interesting to see the story open up to other characters. I’m not totally convinced the extra perspectives added a huge amount overall, but they were still a welcome addition and helped flesh out the wider world.
Around the 40–60% mark the pacing dipped a little and things slowed down. Personally I didn’t mind too much because there were some really lovely moments tucked into that section — little bits of absolute gold. Miss Trunk, the old woman who can only communicate through piano in her antiques shop, was such a standout character. And Polly discovering all the letters Otto had sent her after she betrayed everyone? That moment hit so well. There were some real gems in this book — I just wanted even more of them.
Patrick and Nina still completely have my heart. I adore them and I’m desperately hoping we get even more of them in book three. And Donny’s wit was such a welcome reprieve during some of the heavier parts of the story — I loved every time he showed up.
The prophecy about the three daughters was such an interesting concept, but I do think it could have been a bit clearer. I kept expecting some big reveal — like Nina being an ancestor or somehow holding the powers of all three sisters — something that tied it all together in a bigger way. Because of that, parts of the book did feel a little bit like a bridge or filler book in the series.
That said, I still thoroughly enjoyed it and the yearning was absolutely on point.
I will 100% be picking up book three — honestly I cannot wait!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 31, 2026
3.5⭐️
Well... another sequel to a popular book that ended up being a bit of a letdown.
I have to admit, the beginning was pretty strong and had me excited for what was coming. But somewhere along the way, it all started to fall flat. Things were happening, technically, but it also felt like almost nothing actually happened until the very end.
Nina was once again such a passive heroine, just drifting wherever the plot took her, despite Patrick insisting that no one could control her. Speaking of Patrick, his POVs started to get a little repetitive by the end, but I still enjoyed reading about his suffering. I have a soft spot for characters who have been betrayed but can't stop loving the person who hurt them.
Surprisingly, Theo and Polly ended up being the most interesting characters. Their daddy and mommy issues, combined with the complete mess that is their personal lives, were far more compelling than the half-hearted reconciliation between the main couple. If I end up reading book three, it'll be for them and them alone.
Well... another sequel to a popular book that ended up being a bit of a letdown.
I have to admit, the beginning was pretty strong and had me excited for what was coming. But somewhere along the way, it all started to fall flat. Things were happening, technically, but it also felt like almost nothing actually happened until the very end.
Nina was once again such a passive heroine, just drifting wherever the plot took her, despite Patrick insisting that no one could control her. Speaking of Patrick, his POVs started to get a little repetitive by the end, but I still enjoyed reading about his suffering. I have a soft spot for characters who have been betrayed but can't stop loving the person who hurt them.
Surprisingly, Theo and Polly ended up being the most interesting characters. Their daddy and mommy issues, combined with the complete mess that is their personal lives, were far more compelling than the half-hearted reconciliation between the main couple. If I end up reading book three, it'll be for them and them alone.
Want to Read
October 23, 2025Book 1 was SO GOOD, I need book 2 in my hands! I am dying to find out what will happen to Nina, Patrick, and Theo
July 15, 2026
me @ Patrick Colson: starting a class war all by yourself, gorgeous?
this is one of the most unique romantasy series out there and it sometimes feels like it was pulled straight from my own brain. who tf needs the millionth story about fae kings when you have this amazing series about political unrest and miners and revolution???
and the peaky blinders vibes are still on point 👌
and PATRICK COLSON OMG. you all need to meet this man. gang boss revolutionary extraordinaire who’s leading a miners’ rebellion and says the most INSANE things. and the yearning from this man is next level. I literally love him so much.
the characters are great. I adore both Patrick and Nina, and the angst and intense romance between them was chef’s kiss. plus I enjoyed getting some Donny chapters.
could’ve done with a bit less of Theo though. I appreciated his character arc but it still sort of feels like his primary reason for existing is just to get cucked every few chapters.
impatiently waiting for book 3 after that crazy ending.
this is one of the most unique romantasy series out there and it sometimes feels like it was pulled straight from my own brain. who tf needs the millionth story about fae kings when you have this amazing series about political unrest and miners and revolution???
and the peaky blinders vibes are still on point 👌
and PATRICK COLSON OMG. you all need to meet this man. gang boss revolutionary extraordinaire who’s leading a miners’ rebellion and says the most INSANE things. and the yearning from this man is next level. I literally love him so much.
the characters are great. I adore both Patrick and Nina, and the angst and intense romance between them was chef’s kiss. plus I enjoyed getting some Donny chapters.
could’ve done with a bit less of Theo though. I appreciated his character arc but it still sort of feels like his primary reason for existing is just to get cucked every few chapters.
impatiently waiting for book 3 after that crazy ending.
July 19, 2026
Sort of spoilery below.
I read a comment where someone wrote this story is slow.
Not once did I think the story was slow. So much was happening. From the way Partick handles the deception stuff (which was a surprise) to carrying the story forward. Which meant action and meeting new characters to bumping into familiar ones.
Finished this book yesterday, and now I'm eager for book three as Patrick, Nina, and others have been left in a perfect place to fight their way back up.
I read a comment where someone wrote this story is slow.
Not once did I think the story was slow. So much was happening. From the way Partick handles the deception stuff (which was a surprise) to carrying the story forward. Which meant action and meeting new characters to bumping into familiar ones.
Finished this book yesterday, and now I'm eager for book three as Patrick, Nina, and others have been left in a perfect place to fight their way back up.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 28, 2026
This book gave me life during the worst reading slump of my life...I cannot get enough.
It picks up right where we left off, in the worst way possible :) mommy I am scared, the angst is aching my chest. Will they ever be happy and free again?
I was not only on the edge of my seat with every (absolute shitshow) these characters had to experience, but the YEARNING was impeccable. I would live, breathe, and die for Nina and Patrick's story. If you ask me for any book recommendation ever, this series will be my immediate go-to.
Final note for Miss Stacey herself, that ending was diabolical and I have not felt sane since I finished it! Therapy bills are being sent over.
WATCH THE READING VLOG 🔥
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=67uuW...
It picks up right where we left off, in the worst way possible :) mommy I am scared, the angst is aching my chest. Will they ever be happy and free again?
I was not only on the edge of my seat with every (absolute shitshow) these characters had to experience, but the YEARNING was impeccable. I would live, breathe, and die for Nina and Patrick's story. If you ask me for any book recommendation ever, this series will be my immediate go-to.
Final note for Miss Stacey herself, that ending was diabolical and I have not felt sane since I finished it! Therapy bills are being sent over.
WATCH THE READING VLOG 🔥
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=67uuW...
August 3, 2026
I fuck heavy with Stacey McEwan 🤘🏻
I love this world and these characters and this magic system, I LOVE IT 🔥
Nina and Patrick are absolute fire, Theo is a wet lemon (I don’t do redemptions).
Honestly considering I really don’t get on with a lot of urban fantasy, this mining town setting is working wonders.
I really enjoy the magic system with the charmers, the smiths and the masons.
I also thoroughly enjoyed the back story of the 3 daughters, I do love a bit of lore especially when a societies history is unraveled and falls apart 🥵
Now I have to wait for book 3, ffs
I love this world and these characters and this magic system, I LOVE IT 🔥
Nina and Patrick are absolute fire, Theo is a wet lemon (I don’t do redemptions).
Honestly considering I really don’t get on with a lot of urban fantasy, this mining town setting is working wonders.
I really enjoy the magic system with the charmers, the smiths and the masons.
I also thoroughly enjoyed the back story of the 3 daughters, I do love a bit of lore especially when a societies history is unraveled and falls apart 🥵
Now I have to wait for book 3, ffs
September 12, 2026
book 3 now please… I need more NinaPatrick to get through the days
also to the people who said this had a “love triangle”, the FMC has to actually consider the other dude for there to be a triangle, Nina only wanted Patty as soon as she saw him like come on guyssssss
also to the people who said this had a “love triangle”, the FMC has to actually consider the other dude for there to be a triangle, Nina only wanted Patty as soon as she saw him like come on guyssssss
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