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The Alchemist's Daughter: Join Pax and her companions on a dangerous magical quest in this un-put-downable gothic fantasy debut
What frightened her the most were the monsters living inside her head.
Living inside her.
In the mythical world of Tellus, Pax Silva awaits her Ortus day, when she will finally obtain her telekinetic powers. Shunned by her community for being too unpredictable, she longs for a life of adventure beyond her small forest home.
But when her village is attacked, and her Alchemist father and mother are taken, she is left with only cryptic clues and a mysterious golden amulet.
Convinced that the much-feared Supremo Gen are responsible for their capture, Pax and her childhood friend, Am, travel to Rubra to confront them, alongside Miles, a warrior with a bionic leg, and Venefica, an ancient witch Pax is uncertain she can trust.
With the Blood Moon due to rise, will Pax be able to save her parents before it’s too late?
✨ Praise for The Alchemist's Daughter ✨
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ "A brilliant book packed with adventure and great characters, it’s a like a treasure hunt in a world that is a cross between Harry Potter and Game of Thrones. I wouldn’t normally read a fantasy book like this, but it had all the excitement and cliff hanging aspects of the thrillers I always enjoy. It's also a great length with short chapters, ideal for a sneaky read between train stops or when you should be going to bed!" - Amelie Bea Smith, child actress
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ "Get ready for your next fantasy obsession! I couldn’t stop reading. Expertly crafted world building that instantly transported me into the world of Tellus, this is an adventure story at its finest. These characters will stay with you for a long time.” - J S Strange, author of The Boyfriend Academy
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ “An imaginative story full of turns and vivid world building, ideal for readers just stepping into YA fantasy.” - TikTok Reviewer @timtam_bookwriter
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ "With a love for riddles and hidden symbolism similar to Tolkien's, Tamara Price easily ignited nostalgic memories of lands I've never travelled to and quests I've yet to experience." - Netgalley Reviewer
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ "Cozy, magical, and beautifully diverse! It's a must-read for fans of Leigh Bardugo or Rick Riordan who enjoy stories about belonging, bravery, and self-discovery." - Netgalley Reviewer
Living inside her.
In the mythical world of Tellus, Pax Silva awaits her Ortus day, when she will finally obtain her telekinetic powers. Shunned by her community for being too unpredictable, she longs for a life of adventure beyond her small forest home.
But when her village is attacked, and her Alchemist father and mother are taken, she is left with only cryptic clues and a mysterious golden amulet.
Convinced that the much-feared Supremo Gen are responsible for their capture, Pax and her childhood friend, Am, travel to Rubra to confront them, alongside Miles, a warrior with a bionic leg, and Venefica, an ancient witch Pax is uncertain she can trust.
With the Blood Moon due to rise, will Pax be able to save her parents before it’s too late?
✨ Praise for The Alchemist's Daughter ✨
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ "A brilliant book packed with adventure and great characters, it’s a like a treasure hunt in a world that is a cross between Harry Potter and Game of Thrones. I wouldn’t normally read a fantasy book like this, but it had all the excitement and cliff hanging aspects of the thrillers I always enjoy. It's also a great length with short chapters, ideal for a sneaky read between train stops or when you should be going to bed!" - Amelie Bea Smith, child actress
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ "Get ready for your next fantasy obsession! I couldn’t stop reading. Expertly crafted world building that instantly transported me into the world of Tellus, this is an adventure story at its finest. These characters will stay with you for a long time.” - J S Strange, author of The Boyfriend Academy
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ “An imaginative story full of turns and vivid world building, ideal for readers just stepping into YA fantasy.” - TikTok Reviewer @timtam_bookwriter
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ "With a love for riddles and hidden symbolism similar to Tolkien's, Tamara Price easily ignited nostalgic memories of lands I've never travelled to and quests I've yet to experience." - Netgalley Reviewer
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ "Cozy, magical, and beautifully diverse! It's a must-read for fans of Leigh Bardugo or Rick Riordan who enjoy stories about belonging, bravery, and self-discovery." - Netgalley Reviewer
- GenresYoung Adult
323 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 28, 2025
2 people are currently reading
91 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 41 reviews
October 28, 2025
This has excellent world building, you feel fully immersed and once you get through what you need to know about the new world you stepping into the pacing picks up very quickly! Loved the gothic vibes mixed with mythology and neurodivergent rep! This is great for anyone who loves trials, riddles and ya fantasy! Thanks to Netgalley, the publisher and the author for a copy!
October 31, 2025
Thank you Tamara Price and Cranthorpe Millner for an early copy of this book for review!
4⭐️ | Out now!
This is one of the best YA novels I’ve read in a while. Tamara Price builds such a unique world and I was absolutely hooked on this book!
Pax is our FMC who ends up on a quest to save her kidnapped parents when her village is attacked. Left with only her friend Am, a golden amulet and some cryptic clues she races against the clock until the Blood Moon to save them.
There is a such a lovely band of characters and I love how they all come together with the “found family” trope!
The world building is great but do refer to the glossary at the back of the book! That does make it a lot easier. However I didn’t realize there was a glossary and still managed without it!
Overall this was a stunning book and I highly recommend picking this up if you’re after a short but action-packed read with an alchemy theme and bad ass FMC!
4⭐️ | Out now!
This is one of the best YA novels I’ve read in a while. Tamara Price builds such a unique world and I was absolutely hooked on this book!
Pax is our FMC who ends up on a quest to save her kidnapped parents when her village is attacked. Left with only her friend Am, a golden amulet and some cryptic clues she races against the clock until the Blood Moon to save them.
There is a such a lovely band of characters and I love how they all come together with the “found family” trope!
The world building is great but do refer to the glossary at the back of the book! That does make it a lot easier. However I didn’t realize there was a glossary and still managed without it!
Overall this was a stunning book and I highly recommend picking this up if you’re after a short but action-packed read with an alchemy theme and bad ass FMC!
October 1, 2025
I really wanted to love this, as the premise, a sprawling adventure across ancient ruins to find a legendary artifact, was incredibly exciting. The world-building and the general idea behind the magic system are quite strong; I could clearly envision the ancient lands and feel the potential of the quest. That's where the two and a half stars come from.
Unfortunately, the execution was highly frustrating. The pace was wildly inconsistent, moving from zero to a hundred in the final fifty pages, leaving the first two-thirds feeling like a pointless slog of exposition. The main characters, who were supposed to be compelling heroes, felt like cardboard cutouts; their motivations were often unclear, and their dialogue was surprisingly bland. The big reveal at the end felt unearned because I wasn't emotionally invested in the journey or the characters making the discovery. It's a visually imaginative book, but the flat characters and uneven pacing made this a disappointing read.
Thank you netgalley for the ARC copy.
Unfortunately, the execution was highly frustrating. The pace was wildly inconsistent, moving from zero to a hundred in the final fifty pages, leaving the first two-thirds feeling like a pointless slog of exposition. The main characters, who were supposed to be compelling heroes, felt like cardboard cutouts; their motivations were often unclear, and their dialogue was surprisingly bland. The big reveal at the end felt unearned because I wasn't emotionally invested in the journey or the characters making the discovery. It's a visually imaginative book, but the flat characters and uneven pacing made this a disappointing read.
Thank you netgalley for the ARC copy.
November 8, 2025
The story follows Pax, a young, hot headed girl who is awaiting the day she receives her powers. While she is out in the forest calming down from one of her 'tempers' , her village is attacked and upon her return, her parents are gone. Pax makes the decision to leave her childhood home and embarks on a journey of danger, risk and challenges that is set to change her life.
I think that this is aimed at YA but I would say a slightly younger teen would also enjoy this book. There was no romance which personally I struggled a little with being a romantasy reader, however I think it's nice that for once a book aimed at a younger audience is less focused on the "girl getting the guy" etc.
The magic systems, world building and different fantasy creatures in this book made for good reading.!
Trogs sound horrific to me 🤣 The stuff of nightmares 👀🤣
Thankyou again for this amazing competition prize @tamaraprice
Quotes I liked in this book:
Mealtimes make everyone happy, they bring people together"
"Lies can cut deeper than any knife"
Danger awaits you on this Quest,
The power inside, you must possess.
Below Blood Moon, save your kin,
Travel to a place of immortal sin.
"To discover our future, we must look to the past."
"You have all looked to the past. You have all looked to the future. Now you must be here, in the present. Nothing else matters."
Guarded not by friend, but foe, Where safe flight will refuse to go.
Supported in life and many in death, Walk amongst those with fire breath.
"Sometimes love and sadness are close"
October 4, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
This was such a strong YA fantasy read! The world building is phenomenal—I felt like I stepped straight into the story and lived there for a day. I binged this in one sitting and have zero regrets. The mix of alchemy and classic fantasy elements worked beautifully together.
Think Baldur’s Gate meets D&D vibes: witches, warriors, gods, demons, monsters, and high-stakes trials in a true race of Good vs Evil. If that’s your thing, you’ll devour this book.
That said, I did find myself wishing the trials were a bit longer and more fleshed out—they wrapped up too quickly for my taste. And while the FMC grew on me by the end, I struggled to really connect with her in the first half. If those two things were stronger, this easily would’ve been a 5-star read.
All in all, an epic and immersive YA fantasy that’s absolutely worth picking up!
This was such a strong YA fantasy read! The world building is phenomenal—I felt like I stepped straight into the story and lived there for a day. I binged this in one sitting and have zero regrets. The mix of alchemy and classic fantasy elements worked beautifully together.
Think Baldur’s Gate meets D&D vibes: witches, warriors, gods, demons, monsters, and high-stakes trials in a true race of Good vs Evil. If that’s your thing, you’ll devour this book.
That said, I did find myself wishing the trials were a bit longer and more fleshed out—they wrapped up too quickly for my taste. And while the FMC grew on me by the end, I struggled to really connect with her in the first half. If those two things were stronger, this easily would’ve been a 5-star read.
All in all, an epic and immersive YA fantasy that’s absolutely worth picking up!
October 28, 2025
Thank you to Cranthorpe Millner and NetGalley for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
3.5 stars.
An enjoyable YA fantasy, following Pax, a teenage girl living in the mythical world of Tellus. She is rapidly approaching her Ortus day, where she will obtain telekinetic powers, when her mother and father are kidnapped.
Pax has to leave the village, along with her friend Am, and follow clues to track down her parents, meeting some colourful characters on the way.
I appreciated the world building in this book, I definitely felt transported, and I was very invested in Pax's journey.
A really solid debut, and I'm looking forward to reading more of this author's future works.
3.5 stars.
An enjoyable YA fantasy, following Pax, a teenage girl living in the mythical world of Tellus. She is rapidly approaching her Ortus day, where she will obtain telekinetic powers, when her mother and father are kidnapped.
Pax has to leave the village, along with her friend Am, and follow clues to track down her parents, meeting some colourful characters on the way.
I appreciated the world building in this book, I definitely felt transported, and I was very invested in Pax's journey.
A really solid debut, and I'm looking forward to reading more of this author's future works.
October 19, 2025
I had a feeling from the start that there was some neurodivergent representation in this story (we really do have that superpower to spot our own!), and I was so happy to see it also includes nonbinary and disabled characters. The representation is natural, meaningful, and beautifully done.
Finding out that Tellus was inspired by Wales, my homeland made it even more special. I could picture every detail, every landscape, and it added such a personal connection to the world-building.
I’ll be honest, the first few pages took me a bit to settle into while I adapted to the writing style and met Am, but once I found the flow, I was completely immersed. At one point, I even started taking notes about Am, then realised I didn’t need to, I already knew them, or at least recognised someone like them, which made me connect to the story even more.
The first chapter is a little slow, but that’s common in fantasy while the world is being built. After that, it’s smooth sailing, and I couldn’t put it down. I’d call this a YA fantasy, but it’s absolutely enjoyable for adults too.
I loved the mix of Welsh names, Greek mythology, and clever riddles. The story is magical, diverse, and full of heart and self-discovery. It’s one of those reads that quietly pulls you in until you realise how deeply it’s touched you.
Definitely one for my reread TBR.
Finding out that Tellus was inspired by Wales, my homeland made it even more special. I could picture every detail, every landscape, and it added such a personal connection to the world-building.
I’ll be honest, the first few pages took me a bit to settle into while I adapted to the writing style and met Am, but once I found the flow, I was completely immersed. At one point, I even started taking notes about Am, then realised I didn’t need to, I already knew them, or at least recognised someone like them, which made me connect to the story even more.
The first chapter is a little slow, but that’s common in fantasy while the world is being built. After that, it’s smooth sailing, and I couldn’t put it down. I’d call this a YA fantasy, but it’s absolutely enjoyable for adults too.
I loved the mix of Welsh names, Greek mythology, and clever riddles. The story is magical, diverse, and full of heart and self-discovery. It’s one of those reads that quietly pulls you in until you realise how deeply it’s touched you.
Definitely one for my reread TBR.
September 28, 2025
This felt like reading a fairytale with some darker twists were the characters were going on a quest to defeat evil. Fourteen year old Pax is a strong heroine and her little found family is perfecty imperfect. The woldbuilding is very good and I really liked the fast pace of the story.
October 6, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 5/5 – Cozy, magical, and beautifully diverse!
✨ Thank you to NetGalley, Cranthorpe Millner Publishers, and author Tamara Price for providing me with an advance copy of The Alchemist’s Daughter in exchange for an honest review. ✨
The Alchemist’s Daughter by Tamara Price completely swept me away. Even though it’s a short read, it’s so immersive, the kind of story you sink into and don’t want to leave. The worldbuilding is rich, full of creativity and heart, and every stop along Pax’s journey feels alive with its own magic.
I loved how unique the cast is. We meet neurodivergent, non-binary, disabled, and older characters, all of whom are woven naturally into the story. The found-family trope shines here, giving cosy, feel-good vibes amid the adventure. Pax herself is such a wonderful protagonist; kind, brave, and genuinely good. Watching her make friends along her journey made me smile the whole way through.
The magic system feels fresh and fascinating, the world gives Shannara Chronicles energy, and the whole thing feels like a warm, heartfelt YA fantasy escape. For a debut, it’s incredibly well done and highly recommended for those who love adventure, friendship, and stories that celebrate difference and belonging. It's a must-read for fans of Leigh Bardugo or Rick Riordan who enjoy stories about belonging, bravery, and self-discovery. 💫
✨ Thank you to NetGalley, Cranthorpe Millner Publishers, and author Tamara Price for providing me with an advance copy of The Alchemist’s Daughter in exchange for an honest review. ✨
The Alchemist’s Daughter by Tamara Price completely swept me away. Even though it’s a short read, it’s so immersive, the kind of story you sink into and don’t want to leave. The worldbuilding is rich, full of creativity and heart, and every stop along Pax’s journey feels alive with its own magic.
I loved how unique the cast is. We meet neurodivergent, non-binary, disabled, and older characters, all of whom are woven naturally into the story. The found-family trope shines here, giving cosy, feel-good vibes amid the adventure. Pax herself is such a wonderful protagonist; kind, brave, and genuinely good. Watching her make friends along her journey made me smile the whole way through.
The magic system feels fresh and fascinating, the world gives Shannara Chronicles energy, and the whole thing feels like a warm, heartfelt YA fantasy escape. For a debut, it’s incredibly well done and highly recommended for those who love adventure, friendship, and stories that celebrate difference and belonging. It's a must-read for fans of Leigh Bardugo or Rick Riordan who enjoy stories about belonging, bravery, and self-discovery. 💫
October 5, 2025
Wow!!! What a book! This book had me gripped and only took me so long to read as I have a 3 month old baby! This helped me out of an 11 month reading slump too! giving adventure, witches, warriors, magic and much more! With an Amazing conclusion that didn’t feel rushed like most books!! Highly recommend 😍
January 15, 2026
My rating:
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
Who knew adventure and fantasy together could make me crumble this easily?
"Many Gen say that the birth of the alchemist's daughter was so violent it can only be likened to a death."
Pax Silva's story follows her quest to find her parents after a suspicious attack on their village, Viridis. With a tangled journey, playful riddles, and ancient prophecies, young Pax is swept into a world of chaos threatening to take away all that she holds dear.
This fast-paced YA fantasy revives the adventurous spirit of The Hobbit, The Lord of the Rings, and The Chronicles of Narnia.
The impeccable writing style breathes life into earnest descriptions, trapping the reader within the book's tangled webs. The subtle depiction of the characters' moral portrait made them all the more relatable and unforgettable. The world-building was original and captivating, with everything blending together in perfect harmony (and personally, it was a delight to venture into it, more than I'd originally expected).
One thing I'd like to mention about the story, though, is that I wished the final battle would have been more impactful; it felt somewhat underwhelming, but that does not take away the book's overall shine.
Needless to say, I recommend this story to anyone whose heart yearns for a true adventure novel. With a love for riddles and hidden symbolism similar to Tolkien's, Tamara Price easily ignited nostalgic memories, of lands I've never traveled and quests I've yet to experience.
Thank you to NetGalley and Cranthorpe Millner for the ARC, and thank you, Tamara, for making me feel so deeply with every page turned.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
Who knew adventure and fantasy together could make me crumble this easily?
"Many Gen say that the birth of the alchemist's daughter was so violent it can only be likened to a death."
Pax Silva's story follows her quest to find her parents after a suspicious attack on their village, Viridis. With a tangled journey, playful riddles, and ancient prophecies, young Pax is swept into a world of chaos threatening to take away all that she holds dear.
This fast-paced YA fantasy revives the adventurous spirit of The Hobbit, The Lord of the Rings, and The Chronicles of Narnia.
The impeccable writing style breathes life into earnest descriptions, trapping the reader within the book's tangled webs. The subtle depiction of the characters' moral portrait made them all the more relatable and unforgettable. The world-building was original and captivating, with everything blending together in perfect harmony (and personally, it was a delight to venture into it, more than I'd originally expected).
One thing I'd like to mention about the story, though, is that I wished the final battle would have been more impactful; it felt somewhat underwhelming, but that does not take away the book's overall shine.
Needless to say, I recommend this story to anyone whose heart yearns for a true adventure novel. With a love for riddles and hidden symbolism similar to Tolkien's, Tamara Price easily ignited nostalgic memories, of lands I've never traveled and quests I've yet to experience.
Thank you to NetGalley and Cranthorpe Millner for the ARC, and thank you, Tamara, for making me feel so deeply with every page turned.
October 15, 2025
A rich, magical debut that blends dark fairy tale vibes with fast-paced adventure and heart.
I absolutely loved being thrown into the mythical world of Tellus, where Pax Silva and her sweetest found family embark on an epic quest to save her alchemist parents after their village is invaded by the terrifying Harvesters. The group follows a trail of riddles and magic across dangerous lands, facing off against frightening creatures and unexpected twists at every turn. It’s a high-stakes journey, but at the heart of it all is the quiet, emotional power of belonging and discovering who you truly are.
One of my favorite aspects was Pax herself — strong, anxious, clever, and so easy to root for. Her upcoming Ortus Day, where she must face the full truth of her powers and identity, adds a layer of personal tension to the overarching fantasy plot. There’s mystery, magic, and self-discovery in equal measure.
Tamara Price’s writing is beautifully descriptive — she paints every forest, shadow, creature, and whispered moment with lush detail. I especially appreciated how often the narrative paused to observe the small things — the world felt alive, from grand magical ruins to tiny woodland creatures. It made for an incredibly immersive experience, like stepping straight into a darker fairy tale.
If you're looking for a fantasy that gives you the warmth of found family, the intensity of magical danger, and a fast-paced plot with a gothic edge, The Alchemist’s Daughter is a must-read. I’m really hoping there’s more to come from Pax and her crew — this feels like the beginning of something special, and I’ll definitely be watching for Tamara Price’s next release.
I absolutely loved being thrown into the mythical world of Tellus, where Pax Silva and her sweetest found family embark on an epic quest to save her alchemist parents after their village is invaded by the terrifying Harvesters. The group follows a trail of riddles and magic across dangerous lands, facing off against frightening creatures and unexpected twists at every turn. It’s a high-stakes journey, but at the heart of it all is the quiet, emotional power of belonging and discovering who you truly are.
One of my favorite aspects was Pax herself — strong, anxious, clever, and so easy to root for. Her upcoming Ortus Day, where she must face the full truth of her powers and identity, adds a layer of personal tension to the overarching fantasy plot. There’s mystery, magic, and self-discovery in equal measure.
Tamara Price’s writing is beautifully descriptive — she paints every forest, shadow, creature, and whispered moment with lush detail. I especially appreciated how often the narrative paused to observe the small things — the world felt alive, from grand magical ruins to tiny woodland creatures. It made for an incredibly immersive experience, like stepping straight into a darker fairy tale.
If you're looking for a fantasy that gives you the warmth of found family, the intensity of magical danger, and a fast-paced plot with a gothic edge, The Alchemist’s Daughter is a must-read. I’m really hoping there’s more to come from Pax and her crew — this feels like the beginning of something special, and I’ll definitely be watching for Tamara Price’s next release.
September 25, 2025
What frightened her the most were the monsters living in her head....
Short, but nothing less than utterly fantastical.
Tamara Price has made a beautifully complex, expertly crafted world full of possibilities, full of possible stories, and breathing a beautiful source of new life into the genre of young-adult fantasy. Welcome to the mythical world of Tellus.
Pax Silva awaits her Ortus day, the day where she will discover her true capabilities, her powers. At the same time, she is shunned by her village because she is too unpredictable, too much of a liability... her mood too wild and uncontrollable.... As such, Pax longs for a life of adventure outside of her home, to know what the world is like without the harsh judgements of her fellow villagers.... to experience freedom and the beauty of the world in her own eyes
. Until her village is attacked, and her Alchemist mother and father are taken... Pax and her friends set off on a journey of epic proportion filled with friendship, unexpected twists, and discovering oneself...
Tamara will leave you with a story that will be in the back of your mind lurking until the next book comes... eager for another visit to this amazing world...and I am looking forward to her future releases.
Thank you to Cranthorpe Millner Publishers, as well as Netgalley for this copy in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts and opinions are my own, and the rest of my reviews can be found at https://littlereapling.wixsite.com/fa....
Short, but nothing less than utterly fantastical.
Tamara Price has made a beautifully complex, expertly crafted world full of possibilities, full of possible stories, and breathing a beautiful source of new life into the genre of young-adult fantasy. Welcome to the mythical world of Tellus.
Pax Silva awaits her Ortus day, the day where she will discover her true capabilities, her powers. At the same time, she is shunned by her village because she is too unpredictable, too much of a liability... her mood too wild and uncontrollable.... As such, Pax longs for a life of adventure outside of her home, to know what the world is like without the harsh judgements of her fellow villagers.... to experience freedom and the beauty of the world in her own eyes
. Until her village is attacked, and her Alchemist mother and father are taken... Pax and her friends set off on a journey of epic proportion filled with friendship, unexpected twists, and discovering oneself...
Tamara will leave you with a story that will be in the back of your mind lurking until the next book comes... eager for another visit to this amazing world...and I am looking forward to her future releases.
Thank you to Cranthorpe Millner Publishers, as well as Netgalley for this copy in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts and opinions are my own, and the rest of my reviews can be found at https://littlereapling.wixsite.com/fa....
October 25, 2025
Pax was in the forest when her whole family is kidnapped and she will have to follow the clues her father has left her to save them.
It has been a while since the last time I read a classical heroes-journey, so it was refreshing to remember all the books I used to read as a child. It had all the classic components: friends that are joining along in each stop, a profesy or riddle to solve that will guide our protagonists, and a final epic battle.
Although blood is talked about a lot during this book, I would say it is written for a younger audience than YA, the pace is fast, a solid world building, and an entertaining adventure. That being said, as an adult (I specify because I feel maybe a younger me wouldn't have any of the complaints I'll express now) I was lacking connection with the characters and between them, and I also missed struggle, everything got solved fast, and it was even predictable sometimes.
I want to also add that thanks god, this has no romance what so ever, not even in a secondary plot. I feel that it is so difficult to find a story with a girl as a protagonist that doesn't have a comment at somepoint about romance or crushes, and this book does not have only one female main character, but two, and not a word is mentioned! Maybe I am the only one who feels this way, but it is so important to have books for children with FMC and no romance involved.
Finally, I want to thank Cranthorpe Millners Publishers, Netgalley, and Tamara Price for allowing me to read this eArc in exchange for an honest review.
It has been a while since the last time I read a classical heroes-journey, so it was refreshing to remember all the books I used to read as a child. It had all the classic components: friends that are joining along in each stop, a profesy or riddle to solve that will guide our protagonists, and a final epic battle.
Although blood is talked about a lot during this book, I would say it is written for a younger audience than YA, the pace is fast, a solid world building, and an entertaining adventure. That being said, as an adult (I specify because I feel maybe a younger me wouldn't have any of the complaints I'll express now) I was lacking connection with the characters and between them, and I also missed struggle, everything got solved fast, and it was even predictable sometimes.
I want to also add that thanks god, this has no romance what so ever, not even in a secondary plot. I feel that it is so difficult to find a story with a girl as a protagonist that doesn't have a comment at somepoint about romance or crushes, and this book does not have only one female main character, but two, and not a word is mentioned! Maybe I am the only one who feels this way, but it is so important to have books for children with FMC and no romance involved.
Finally, I want to thank Cranthorpe Millners Publishers, Netgalley, and Tamara Price for allowing me to read this eArc in exchange for an honest review.
October 29, 2025
Full of plot twists and big reveals, this YA fantasy will have you gripped from start to finish!
The mythical world of Tellus is filled with all sorts of magic and treachery. Feeling isolated and alone, Pax longs for adventure… but in no time at all, her life is thrown into turmoil. What secrets are hidden within her mother’s amulet? Why has her father left her so many riddles to solve? And will she be able to overcome the leader of the Supremo Gen before her parents are sacrificed?
This epic YA fantasy follows the journey of Pax as she heads ever closer to her Ortus day, when the extent of her telekinetic powers will finally be revealed. Having been shunned by many in the past, she manages to gather together an army of misfits to assist her on her quest to rescue her parents – including a witch called Venefica (one of my favourite characters!) and a warrior called Miles. But can these newfound friends of hers be trusted?
This story is beautifully crafted and fully immersive, making it impossible to put the book down. I loved watching Pax’s character growth as the story progressed and she struggled with her emotions – as well her powers. The pace continues to accelerate as the story progresses and escalates significantly during the final chapters, leading to a real sense of urgency and culminating in an explosive ending!
I loved all the intricacies of the amulet, the brilliant blend of diverse characters, and the marvellous mix of magic and danger. Fingers crossed there’s going to be a sequel to this one!
The mythical world of Tellus is filled with all sorts of magic and treachery. Feeling isolated and alone, Pax longs for adventure… but in no time at all, her life is thrown into turmoil. What secrets are hidden within her mother’s amulet? Why has her father left her so many riddles to solve? And will she be able to overcome the leader of the Supremo Gen before her parents are sacrificed?
This epic YA fantasy follows the journey of Pax as she heads ever closer to her Ortus day, when the extent of her telekinetic powers will finally be revealed. Having been shunned by many in the past, she manages to gather together an army of misfits to assist her on her quest to rescue her parents – including a witch called Venefica (one of my favourite characters!) and a warrior called Miles. But can these newfound friends of hers be trusted?
This story is beautifully crafted and fully immersive, making it impossible to put the book down. I loved watching Pax’s character growth as the story progressed and she struggled with her emotions – as well her powers. The pace continues to accelerate as the story progresses and escalates significantly during the final chapters, leading to a real sense of urgency and culminating in an explosive ending!
I loved all the intricacies of the amulet, the brilliant blend of diverse characters, and the marvellous mix of magic and danger. Fingers crossed there’s going to be a sequel to this one!
October 16, 2025
Thank you Cranthorpe Millner Publishing for the eARC of this story. These are my honest opinions.
Overall, a well done story for YA readers. Completely Spice free and NO love interest. This is a standalone fantasy adventure story of a young girl coming into her powers. The FMC is on a quest to save her family, while revealing hidden truths about herself and their world. This book had a very Sci-Fi feel to it with the Artificially Intelligent side characters and does cover some dark themes, such as blood sacrifices and kidnapping, but is clearly intended for younger audiences and the details are not too graphic. This is a coming of age, young girl saves the world, twisty book that will draw you in with it's fast pacing.
Tropes:
Coming of Age
Found family
Healthy true family
Quest
Chosen One
Quote:
"There is no bad without good. No light without dark."
******SPOILER********
Pax and her Artificially made friend, Am, set out on their journey to find special ingredients for an Amulet from Pax's mother after her parents are kidnapped by the Supreme Gen ruler for a blood ritual sacrifice. On their journey, they team up with other characters and develop a found family that stands together against Occissor, the Supreme Gen ruler. Pax faces heart-breaking moments and challenges as she learns who she can trust and who she is.
Overall, a well done story for YA readers. Completely Spice free and NO love interest. This is a standalone fantasy adventure story of a young girl coming into her powers. The FMC is on a quest to save her family, while revealing hidden truths about herself and their world. This book had a very Sci-Fi feel to it with the Artificially Intelligent side characters and does cover some dark themes, such as blood sacrifices and kidnapping, but is clearly intended for younger audiences and the details are not too graphic. This is a coming of age, young girl saves the world, twisty book that will draw you in with it's fast pacing.
Tropes:
Coming of Age
Found family
Healthy true family
Quest
Chosen One
Quote:
"There is no bad without good. No light without dark."
******SPOILER********
Pax and her Artificially made friend, Am, set out on their journey to find special ingredients for an Amulet from Pax's mother after her parents are kidnapped by the Supreme Gen ruler for a blood ritual sacrifice. On their journey, they team up with other characters and develop a found family that stands together against Occissor, the Supreme Gen ruler. Pax faces heart-breaking moments and challenges as she learns who she can trust and who she is.
December 28, 2025
I've been looking forward to reading this since I came across the author on Tiktok. I love a YA adventure quest so this was right up my street. The found family she gathers along the way are charming and likeable in their own quirky ways and I liked the different elements each brought to the story. It was fast paced and kept me entertained throughout.
Ostracized by her village for the nature of her powers, and about to strengthen them on her upcoming Ortus day, Pax Silva she longs to fit in with her peers. Escaping into the woods following an argument with her mother she finds she's completely alone when she returns as Harvesters have attacked her village. Left with only an amulet and cryptic clues she begins her quest to find her parents before it's too late.
She is joined by an unlikely set of helpers along the way, all with their own strengths and weaknesses. Their bonds grow as they struggle on and it's only together that they stand a chance of succeeding.
Ostracized by her village for the nature of her powers, and about to strengthen them on her upcoming Ortus day, Pax Silva she longs to fit in with her peers. Escaping into the woods following an argument with her mother she finds she's completely alone when she returns as Harvesters have attacked her village. Left with only an amulet and cryptic clues she begins her quest to find her parents before it's too late.
She is joined by an unlikely set of helpers along the way, all with their own strengths and weaknesses. Their bonds grow as they struggle on and it's only together that they stand a chance of succeeding.
October 19, 2025
I really enjoyed my time with the Alchemist’s Daughter. I was able to read it all during my cross country plane ride. While it seems this is really Tamara Price’s debut into a full length fiction novel it appears that she does have a few non fictions under her belt. I will say The Alchemist’s daughter was a fun filled fantasy adventure that captured my attention and pretty much kept it the whole time, it was a pretty short read for me.
I thought for a debut she did a fantastic job with the world building, her prose and her descriptions were great. Normally I have a hard time picturing things in my head and I feel like she made it easy to do so. It was the exact kind of read that I needed for a trip!
Thank you to Canthrope Milner Publishers for the complimentary copy. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
I thought for a debut she did a fantastic job with the world building, her prose and her descriptions were great. Normally I have a hard time picturing things in my head and I feel like she made it easy to do so. It was the exact kind of read that I needed for a trip!
Thank you to Canthrope Milner Publishers for the complimentary copy. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
December 30, 2025
This fantasy novel was about finding family. Even as Pax was literally searching for her own family that had been taken.
It's about gaining confidence.
It's about having faith in others as you learn to trust them along your journey.
The world building within this book is fantastic. The characters Pax meets along the way, who help her solve the mysteries surrounding how to get to her family, were characters I found myself rooting for and growing so attached to. And very upset when things were going wrong for them!
Action-packed from the beginning to the end. The pace picks up even more so about halfway through, all the way to the end, and I found myself pushing just one more chapter to find out what happens next! A great read with several plot twists, all the way up to the last pages.
It's about gaining confidence.
It's about having faith in others as you learn to trust them along your journey.
The world building within this book is fantastic. The characters Pax meets along the way, who help her solve the mysteries surrounding how to get to her family, were characters I found myself rooting for and growing so attached to. And very upset when things were going wrong for them!
Action-packed from the beginning to the end. The pace picks up even more so about halfway through, all the way to the end, and I found myself pushing just one more chapter to find out what happens next! A great read with several plot twists, all the way up to the last pages.
October 4, 2025
Thank you to the author and publisher for an early copy of this!
This book is such a sweet cosy adventure fantasy book! We have mythical creatures, witches, magic, warriors, and found family! I really enjoyed the pacing of the book and I think it’s a really nice short read that is easy to understand and follow. I loved how human the characters felt; they all had their own imperfections and morally grey sides, but they all melded together so perfectly. I was really glad this book and the plot was easy to follow. I liked the plot twist at the end and I didn’t feel it was predictable, but it does set up for good follow up novels!
Overall this is a great whimsical fantasy with a sprinkle of adventure!
Rating: 4/5 stars (⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️)
This book is such a sweet cosy adventure fantasy book! We have mythical creatures, witches, magic, warriors, and found family! I really enjoyed the pacing of the book and I think it’s a really nice short read that is easy to understand and follow. I loved how human the characters felt; they all had their own imperfections and morally grey sides, but they all melded together so perfectly. I was really glad this book and the plot was easy to follow. I liked the plot twist at the end and I didn’t feel it was predictable, but it does set up for good follow up novels!
Overall this is a great whimsical fantasy with a sprinkle of adventure!
Rating: 4/5 stars (⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️)
October 7, 2025
This was such a fun adventure to be on It had everything I love,magic, witches, mythical creatures, oh my!! and that perfect touch of found family. The pacing was smooth, the world easy to slip into, and the story just flowed. It’s one of those reads that feels comforting and fun all at once.
The characters were wonderfully human, each with their own flaws and moral grayness, yet together they just worked. I loved how natural their dynamic felt. The ending threw in a twist I didn’t see coming, setting things up perfectly for more adventures to come.
Honestly, it felt like being dropped into a D&D campaign without having to roll a single dice pure magic from start to finish. A whimsical, heartwarming fantasy that left me smiling the whole way through.
The characters were wonderfully human, each with their own flaws and moral grayness, yet together they just worked. I loved how natural their dynamic felt. The ending threw in a twist I didn’t see coming, setting things up perfectly for more adventures to come.
Honestly, it felt like being dropped into a D&D campaign without having to roll a single dice pure magic from start to finish. A whimsical, heartwarming fantasy that left me smiling the whole way through.
October 30, 2025
This was a great debut.
We follow Pax, daughter of an alchemist as she embarks on an adventure solving clues left by her father, following her parent’s mysterious disappearance.
The story was quite fast paced and the chapters were reasonably short. The story was told through multiple pov, although mainly told from the pov of Pax.
The characters were diverse and interesting. I loved that Pax gained allies as she ventured on her way and I particularly loved the friendship she forged with Venefica. ‘You ask why did I return? It is because I chose to come home.’
I love how the story unfolded and ended. There was plenty of action and magic and the story was well written. I thoroughly enjoyed and would recommend if you also enjoy YA fantasy stories.
4.5⭐️
Thank you so much to the author and Cranthorpe Millner Publishers for the advance read of this story. Opinions expressed here are my own.
We follow Pax, daughter of an alchemist as she embarks on an adventure solving clues left by her father, following her parent’s mysterious disappearance.
The story was quite fast paced and the chapters were reasonably short. The story was told through multiple pov, although mainly told from the pov of Pax.
The characters were diverse and interesting. I loved that Pax gained allies as she ventured on her way and I particularly loved the friendship she forged with Venefica. ‘You ask why did I return? It is because I chose to come home.’
I love how the story unfolded and ended. There was plenty of action and magic and the story was well written. I thoroughly enjoyed and would recommend if you also enjoy YA fantasy stories.
4.5⭐️
Thank you so much to the author and Cranthorpe Millner Publishers for the advance read of this story. Opinions expressed here are my own.
October 27, 2025
4.75/5 🌟
For readers who enjoy:
- found family
- immersive world building
- hidden powers
- defeating the forces of evil
- gothic vibes
The world of Tellus is so intricate and beautiful, with a lovely magic system, and evil forces looking selfishly looking to resolve their own desires. This book follows Pax, who is clever and headstrong, as she sets off on an adventure full of riddle solving, learning who she is, meeting friends along the way, and discovering her power.
The writing in this book is so lovely and the friendships that are formed made it a hard one to put down. I loved everything about this book and its a must read if you are a YA fantasy reader.
For readers who enjoy:
- found family
- immersive world building
- hidden powers
- defeating the forces of evil
- gothic vibes
The world of Tellus is so intricate and beautiful, with a lovely magic system, and evil forces looking selfishly looking to resolve their own desires. This book follows Pax, who is clever and headstrong, as she sets off on an adventure full of riddle solving, learning who she is, meeting friends along the way, and discovering her power.
The writing in this book is so lovely and the friendships that are formed made it a hard one to put down. I loved everything about this book and its a must read if you are a YA fantasy reader.
October 13, 2025
A bold and exciting quest. Pax is troubled from the day of her birth. At fifteen she’s about to discover her power. But sadly before she comes into her full power her parents and her village have been kidnapped and she is determined to find and free them. With the aid of stalwart friends she finds along the way Pax must use everything she’s learned or dreamed of to save the town,
I enjoyed watching Pax struggle and grow along her dangerous quest and look forward to more adventures in her future.
I enjoyed watching Pax struggle and grow along her dangerous quest and look forward to more adventures in her future.
October 27, 2025
This book was an all round great time! First of all, a book with a glossary to help with understanding the fantasy world, instantly sells me on the read. If you need more, here is the golden nugget summary,
Incredible world building
Wholesome friendships and cosy fantasy vibes.
Magical ya fantasy following a quest to save family.
Lovable characters and bonds formed between them.
An adorable dragat (feline and dragon genes) and pyrios (pure white coat equine mammal with a mane of flames)
I chuckled, I smiled and I cried. An overall great YA read!
Incredible world building
Wholesome friendships and cosy fantasy vibes.
Magical ya fantasy following a quest to save family.
Lovable characters and bonds formed between them.
An adorable dragat (feline and dragon genes) and pyrios (pure white coat equine mammal with a mane of flames)
I chuckled, I smiled and I cried. An overall great YA read!
October 28, 2025
Pros:
The world building - This was magical, in depth and immersive.
Easy to follow - It was very easy to get immediately swept up in this adventure
Found family - A cute collection of character, each with their own easily distinguished personalities.
Cons:
Sometimes things jumped a bit or maybe felt a bit skimmed over.
The pacing seemed a bit all or nothing
Perhaps a bit younger than YA for my liking.
Overall I think for the age range this is a fantastic journey that captured the imagination. For me personally, it was a bit young to be YA.
The world building - This was magical, in depth and immersive.
Easy to follow - It was very easy to get immediately swept up in this adventure
Found family - A cute collection of character, each with their own easily distinguished personalities.
Cons:
Sometimes things jumped a bit or maybe felt a bit skimmed over.
The pacing seemed a bit all or nothing
Perhaps a bit younger than YA for my liking.
Overall I think for the age range this is a fantastic journey that captured the imagination. For me personally, it was a bit young to be YA.
October 29, 2025
3.5 stars
This was a great short read but still within the fantasy genre.
It took me a couple of chapters to get into it but once I did the pace picked up.
I love that there’s neurodivergent representation in this book - I don’t feel we get enough of this.
For a ya fantasy book this had all the elements that it needed especially as it was such a short read. Would I of liked it to of been longer - yes but at the same time I loved how it was a quick read. I read it in one sitting and got through it quickly.
I can’t wait to see what Tamara writes next.
This was a great short read but still within the fantasy genre.
It took me a couple of chapters to get into it but once I did the pace picked up.
I love that there’s neurodivergent representation in this book - I don’t feel we get enough of this.
For a ya fantasy book this had all the elements that it needed especially as it was such a short read. Would I of liked it to of been longer - yes but at the same time I loved how it was a quick read. I read it in one sitting and got through it quickly.
I can’t wait to see what Tamara writes next.
November 24, 2025
**Thank you to Cranthorpe Millner Publishers for giving me an ARC of this book via NetGalley in exchange for my honest review!**
This book annoyed me. It had great potential and a really intriguing premise, but all of it fell flat. I tried to give it a chance, but I gave up around 25% of the way through. I did not care about the characters, and the writing was very expositional. It felt like nothing was ever happening. Plus, I think the riddles the characters had to solve were rather simple, and the characters didn't make logical choices in my opinion. I was too bored to finish.
This book annoyed me. It had great potential and a really intriguing premise, but all of it fell flat. I tried to give it a chance, but I gave up around 25% of the way through. I did not care about the characters, and the writing was very expositional. It felt like nothing was ever happening. Plus, I think the riddles the characters had to solve were rather simple, and the characters didn't make logical choices in my opinion. I was too bored to finish.
September 26, 2025
What a fun adventure for Pax and her “built-in” best friend Am. I thoroughly enjoyed the found family that developed throughout the story. The plot was easy to follow and consistent throughout, which makes it perfect for new YA getting into fantasy. The ending felt rushed; however the plot twist at the end wasn’t too predictable.
I would like to thank Cranthorpe Millner Publishing for providing me this ARC via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
I would like to thank Cranthorpe Millner Publishing for providing me this ARC via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
October 22, 2025
Thank you Netgalley for the ARC.
Keep in mind this is a shorter read so I knew things couldn’t have gone too depth when it came to character development but I feel like I got just the right amount!!
I really enjoyed the “good guys” esp miles!!! Vee also won my heart. I love the storyline, the riddles and most importantly the ending. An epilogue would have been nice. My favorite quote is “A huge eruption rolled through her body, powered not by rage, but by love.”
Keep in mind this is a shorter read so I knew things couldn’t have gone too depth when it came to character development but I feel like I got just the right amount!!
I really enjoyed the “good guys” esp miles!!! Vee also won my heart. I love the storyline, the riddles and most importantly the ending. An epilogue would have been nice. My favorite quote is “A huge eruption rolled through her body, powered not by rage, but by love.”
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