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The Alchemists: A Contemporary Dark Academia Fantasy Romance
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Expected 22 Sep 26Kindle Edition
Expected publication September 22, 2026
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July 10, 2026
The Alchemist follows two magicians at Windermere College whose worlds unexpectedly collide. One who is born into an elite family and wants to earn things in his life, as everything is handed to him. And another who is a cursed half magician who works hard for everything she has.
I throughly enjoyed this book. The magic system was unique and well thought out. There is a game element to the book which was also unique and thought out. I love that the author included further information on the magic system, the game, and all the magic institutions. I don’t feel it is necessary to read the extra information if you do not want, but it was nice to reference.
The book in the beginning is slower and picks the more you get into the book. I felt this pacing was nice as it gives you time to wrap your head around the world and the magic system.
I loved watching the characters grow and learn to accept themselves as they were.
I will definitely be adding this book to my recommendations.
I was not paid for this review.
I throughly enjoyed this book. The magic system was unique and well thought out. There is a game element to the book which was also unique and thought out. I love that the author included further information on the magic system, the game, and all the magic institutions. I don’t feel it is necessary to read the extra information if you do not want, but it was nice to reference.
The book in the beginning is slower and picks the more you get into the book. I felt this pacing was nice as it gives you time to wrap your head around the world and the magic system.
I loved watching the characters grow and learn to accept themselves as they were.
I will definitely be adding this book to my recommendations.
I was not paid for this review.
July 9, 2026
Review! This is divided in 3 parts: the short version, my initial 5 seconds post read, and the long book report style. Thank you so much for the ARC & without further ado…. my thoughts on The Alchemists.
~~~THE SHORT VERSION~~~
Why I wanted to read this one: you had me at arcane magical academic story
Why I love this: This feels like a love letter to ambition in the face of life’s unexpected challenges. Be it a curse no one asked for, expectations of society, social pressures, or connection in the most unlikely of places… The world Lily and Seb live in is so dynamic. Not only do the characters grow multi-dimensionally throughout the course of the book, but also are so deeply tied to the world and literal magic around them.
~~~I FINISHED 5 SECONDS AGO HERE ARE MY THOUGHTS~~~
Reading this felt like a whirlwind & was absolutely a book I could not put down (save for sleep). The story was thrilling, heart wrenching, and so incredibly lovely that it’s hard to believe that the premise is magical academia & a girl who is cursed.
What transpires within the pages is unexpectedly so much more. The writing flows, the characters and their personalities give you something to root for (or against in some cases), and the intricacies of the magic system are absolute fun to nerd out over. There’s equally space left for “what’s unsaid” or the transition between scenes. While originally I felt a lot of “no wdym explain that” by the end I see how it’s all tied together.
Will update after I’ve sat with it for a bit but holy heck 5 stars
~~~LONG STORY LONG: WHY THIS BOOK DESERVES EVERY STAR!~~~
So… how did we get here and by here I mean the end of this book. What I originally thought was going to be the story of Lily, a student with a curse hanging over her head, ended up being a world full of color. How many possible storylines could overlap here? Its incredible that it all works — from Lily and Seb’s individual issues, their relationships with each other, their relationships with classmates, um what’s Chant’s deal?, Cantrea!, a school-wide competition (Elumnara), the actual academics of studying at a magical school like Windermere, the class divide between old money and… the rest of them (?), competition with other schools,… I could go on, but there’s so much here that every page and perspective flip felt like new ideas to raise questions about. Honestly, I was fearful that it wouldn’t all come together in the end!
The systems and complexities of said systems were thoroughly fun to learn. Like wdym I’m so invested in Cantréa and the rules (shoutout to the appendix for sharing the full details to support what’s seen through Lily and Seb’s POVs).
Let’s talk about WORDS, because this book is full of ‘em! And before you say, “duh”… hear me out. There’s very specific ways that a Magician’s Words are discussed, and how Words are the equivalent of the deepest most intimate part of one’s soul. Isn’t that profound? There’s also the way names change (completely, in Tori’s case), like how as Lily gets closer to him, Seb goes from Allsaires to Sebastian to Seb (back to… well read and find out). Speaking of words, I happened to read this shortly after that one Threads/Book social media heated discussion regarding authors including uncommon / difficult words — man the number that I highlighted as “wow haven't seen that in a while” or “wow I didn’t know you could use X like that” — added tremendously to the story.
Some favorites:
- languorous
- boustrophedon
- subterfuge
- triptych
- facsimiles
- prescience
- knell
- apotheosis
- defenestrated
***perhaps reading words like this merely contributed to the overall “dark academia” vibe, perhaps it gave me flashbacks to drilling SAT vocab cards bc that was definitely the last time I’ve seen most if not all of these… but who’s to say for sure!
Also, I enjoyed that the Words and Spells were also informed by other cultures. There’s a mention at the beginning about the tones in Mandarin and Cantonese being special to Words of Power. Some spells cast during Cantrea have origins in Feudal Era Japan. It was refreshing to see intersectional inspirations, especially as related to magic.
To conclude these rather rambling thoughts, I loved this! A book that I don't want to put down, that I would love to lose sleep over, and felt my emotions respond in a physical way = can only be one thing ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Notable scenes:
✨ Basically anything in Chant’s class, but the wolves are certainly a highlight
✨ Every. Single. Cantrea. Match.
✨ The winery… all of it (even tho the back half of that scene that ends up with Lily driving is pure trauma… my blood was boiling whilst reading this)
✨ The phone call until he fell asleep :,)
Quotes:
✨ “Memory is an unreliable mistress that way.”
✨ “Alchemy is the poetry of matter.”
✨ “’She knows what the real world has to offer.’” - Asher
✨ “She loved the sport as much as any Magician, and somehow that ruthless boy made the intersection of movement and magic seem next to godliness. Lily grimaced at her toast and wondered if perhaps her love of Cantrea was really a love of watching Allsaires play Cantrea.
✨”Yet somehow Fate, that slow weaving, merciless and merciful mistress, has thrown us together, like twin opposites, into the alembic… There was a thread, invisible, running between him and Lily Perkins. If you boiled them down to their essence, that thread would remain.”
✨✨✨ Note to the Author ✨✨✨
TYSM FOR THE ARC
also…. respectfully and in the best way: HOW DID YOU DO THIS HOW DID YOU WRITE THIS??? IT IS PURE MAGIC
🚨🚨🚨SPOILERS BELOW!🚨🚨🚨
Okay at 76% I made a comment about if the ending turns out to be Romeo and Juliet type (since Shakespeare had already come up passively) that I’d throw hands / be upset… THE ENDING??? Please let this be an opening for a sequel or for something else because WHAT DO YOU MEAN Lily lives but the cost is all of Seb’s memories??????????? On one hand thank god some things are forgotten but the fact that he doesn’t remember her????? BRO
I will be hung up on this for at least a week if not longer…. @ Ms. Stacey Strange this is my formal request for more of Lily and Seb please
~~~THE SHORT VERSION~~~
Why I wanted to read this one: you had me at arcane magical academic story
Why I love this: This feels like a love letter to ambition in the face of life’s unexpected challenges. Be it a curse no one asked for, expectations of society, social pressures, or connection in the most unlikely of places… The world Lily and Seb live in is so dynamic. Not only do the characters grow multi-dimensionally throughout the course of the book, but also are so deeply tied to the world and literal magic around them.
~~~I FINISHED 5 SECONDS AGO HERE ARE MY THOUGHTS~~~
Reading this felt like a whirlwind & was absolutely a book I could not put down (save for sleep). The story was thrilling, heart wrenching, and so incredibly lovely that it’s hard to believe that the premise is magical academia & a girl who is cursed.
What transpires within the pages is unexpectedly so much more. The writing flows, the characters and their personalities give you something to root for (or against in some cases), and the intricacies of the magic system are absolute fun to nerd out over. There’s equally space left for “what’s unsaid” or the transition between scenes. While originally I felt a lot of “no wdym explain that” by the end I see how it’s all tied together.
Will update after I’ve sat with it for a bit but holy heck 5 stars
~~~LONG STORY LONG: WHY THIS BOOK DESERVES EVERY STAR!~~~
So… how did we get here and by here I mean the end of this book. What I originally thought was going to be the story of Lily, a student with a curse hanging over her head, ended up being a world full of color. How many possible storylines could overlap here? Its incredible that it all works — from Lily and Seb’s individual issues, their relationships with each other, their relationships with classmates, um what’s Chant’s deal?, Cantrea!, a school-wide competition (Elumnara), the actual academics of studying at a magical school like Windermere, the class divide between old money and… the rest of them (?), competition with other schools,… I could go on, but there’s so much here that every page and perspective flip felt like new ideas to raise questions about. Honestly, I was fearful that it wouldn’t all come together in the end!
The systems and complexities of said systems were thoroughly fun to learn. Like wdym I’m so invested in Cantréa and the rules (shoutout to the appendix for sharing the full details to support what’s seen through Lily and Seb’s POVs).
Let’s talk about WORDS, because this book is full of ‘em! And before you say, “duh”… hear me out. There’s very specific ways that a Magician’s Words are discussed, and how Words are the equivalent of the deepest most intimate part of one’s soul. Isn’t that profound? There’s also the way names change (completely, in Tori’s case), like how as Lily gets closer to him, Seb goes from Allsaires to Sebastian to Seb (back to… well read and find out). Speaking of words, I happened to read this shortly after that one Threads/Book social media heated discussion regarding authors including uncommon / difficult words — man the number that I highlighted as “wow haven't seen that in a while” or “wow I didn’t know you could use X like that” — added tremendously to the story.
Some favorites:
- languorous
- boustrophedon
- subterfuge
- triptych
- facsimiles
- prescience
- knell
- apotheosis
- defenestrated
***perhaps reading words like this merely contributed to the overall “dark academia” vibe, perhaps it gave me flashbacks to drilling SAT vocab cards bc that was definitely the last time I’ve seen most if not all of these… but who’s to say for sure!
Also, I enjoyed that the Words and Spells were also informed by other cultures. There’s a mention at the beginning about the tones in Mandarin and Cantonese being special to Words of Power. Some spells cast during Cantrea have origins in Feudal Era Japan. It was refreshing to see intersectional inspirations, especially as related to magic.
To conclude these rather rambling thoughts, I loved this! A book that I don't want to put down, that I would love to lose sleep over, and felt my emotions respond in a physical way = can only be one thing ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Notable scenes:
✨ Basically anything in Chant’s class, but the wolves are certainly a highlight
✨ Every. Single. Cantrea. Match.
✨ The winery… all of it (even tho the back half of that scene that ends up with Lily driving is pure trauma… my blood was boiling whilst reading this)
✨ The phone call until he fell asleep :,)
Quotes:
✨ “Memory is an unreliable mistress that way.”
✨ “Alchemy is the poetry of matter.”
✨ “’She knows what the real world has to offer.’” - Asher
✨ “She loved the sport as much as any Magician, and somehow that ruthless boy made the intersection of movement and magic seem next to godliness. Lily grimaced at her toast and wondered if perhaps her love of Cantrea was really a love of watching Allsaires play Cantrea.
✨”Yet somehow Fate, that slow weaving, merciless and merciful mistress, has thrown us together, like twin opposites, into the alembic… There was a thread, invisible, running between him and Lily Perkins. If you boiled them down to their essence, that thread would remain.”
✨✨✨ Note to the Author ✨✨✨
TYSM FOR THE ARC
also…. respectfully and in the best way: HOW DID YOU DO THIS HOW DID YOU WRITE THIS??? IT IS PURE MAGIC
🚨🚨🚨SPOILERS BELOW!🚨🚨🚨
Okay at 76% I made a comment about if the ending turns out to be Romeo and Juliet type (since Shakespeare had already come up passively) that I’d throw hands / be upset… THE ENDING??? Please let this be an opening for a sequel or for something else because WHAT DO YOU MEAN Lily lives but the cost is all of Seb’s memories??????????? On one hand thank god some things are forgotten but the fact that he doesn’t remember her????? BRO
I will be hung up on this for at least a week if not longer…. @ Ms. Stacey Strange this is my formal request for more of Lily and Seb please
July 22, 2026
5/5 ⭐️s
Lily and Seb…..Seb and Lily. These characters have burrowed their way into a little piece of my heart, and I will never forget them.
If you like….
🪄Dark Academia
🪄A Cursed FMC
🪄Dual POV
🪄Romance with Minimal Spice
🪄An MMC in Touch with his Emotions (mostly)
🪄LGBTQ+ Themes
🪄Arcane Magic
Then this book is for you! Reminiscent of Ninth House, Babel and An Arcane Study of Stars, The Alchemists delievered in every way. The story is set at Windemere College, and the students are magicians. Lily is a cursed loner, while Sebastian is wealthy and popular. When they are matched together as lab partners, they are both surprised to learn they aren’t as different as they thought they were. As their relationship develops, will they be able to overcome the scrutiny and challenges facing them, and even more importantly, will they survive Lily’s curse? This book is full of romance (mild spice), magic, magical tournaments and magical quests! The character development is out of this world, and the story will have you ignoring your bedtime to keep reading.
The Alchemists will be released on September 22, 2026.
And finally, thank you to Stacey for giving me the opportunity to read this beautiful book!
Lily and Seb…..Seb and Lily. These characters have burrowed their way into a little piece of my heart, and I will never forget them.
If you like….
🪄Dark Academia
🪄A Cursed FMC
🪄Dual POV
🪄Romance with Minimal Spice
🪄An MMC in Touch with his Emotions (mostly)
🪄LGBTQ+ Themes
🪄Arcane Magic
Then this book is for you! Reminiscent of Ninth House, Babel and An Arcane Study of Stars, The Alchemists delievered in every way. The story is set at Windemere College, and the students are magicians. Lily is a cursed loner, while Sebastian is wealthy and popular. When they are matched together as lab partners, they are both surprised to learn they aren’t as different as they thought they were. As their relationship develops, will they be able to overcome the scrutiny and challenges facing them, and even more importantly, will they survive Lily’s curse? This book is full of romance (mild spice), magic, magical tournaments and magical quests! The character development is out of this world, and the story will have you ignoring your bedtime to keep reading.
The Alchemists will be released on September 22, 2026.
And finally, thank you to Stacey for giving me the opportunity to read this beautiful book!
July 12, 2026
If your book vibe is…
🏫 Dark Academia
🧪 Arcane Magic
🗝️ Secret Histories
💋 Antagonists to Lovers
🏳️🌈 LGBTQ+ Rep
Then The Alchemists by Stacey Stange is for you!
This book is apart of my existence for eternity. I will never stop thinking or talking about this book.
I absolutely adore Lily and Sebastian. Their love story is timeless and eternal. I loved how real they felt. Stacey did an absolutely amazing job tackling very real and hard problems that I resonated with at my core. I loved that Sebastian was strong, protective, and loves Lily so fiercely, but also isn’t above facing his demons and showing emotion and weakness.
Lilly grew into a beautiful character by the end. She became strong and resilient. I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again, found family is one of my favorite tropes and Lily acquired the most amazing found family I’ve ever read about.
The magic system was so intriguing and new to the fantasy space that it kept pulling me back for more. There wasn’t a whole lot of world building in the sense the location was a college campus, but it felt so big and vibrant that I didn’t even care that they were in familiar haunts throughout the whole book.
If I could give this book 6+ stars I would. I’m literally rushing to pre-order it right now so that I can have my own personal copy to grace my bookshelf for eternity. Thank you for a beautifully written book Stacey! I can’t wait to read more of your work!
I received a free copy of this book from the author and am voluntarily leaving a review.
🏫 Dark Academia
🧪 Arcane Magic
🗝️ Secret Histories
💋 Antagonists to Lovers
🏳️🌈 LGBTQ+ Rep
Then The Alchemists by Stacey Stange is for you!
This book is apart of my existence for eternity. I will never stop thinking or talking about this book.
I absolutely adore Lily and Sebastian. Their love story is timeless and eternal. I loved how real they felt. Stacey did an absolutely amazing job tackling very real and hard problems that I resonated with at my core. I loved that Sebastian was strong, protective, and loves Lily so fiercely, but also isn’t above facing his demons and showing emotion and weakness.
Lilly grew into a beautiful character by the end. She became strong and resilient. I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again, found family is one of my favorite tropes and Lily acquired the most amazing found family I’ve ever read about.
The magic system was so intriguing and new to the fantasy space that it kept pulling me back for more. There wasn’t a whole lot of world building in the sense the location was a college campus, but it felt so big and vibrant that I didn’t even care that they were in familiar haunts throughout the whole book.
If I could give this book 6+ stars I would. I’m literally rushing to pre-order it right now so that I can have my own personal copy to grace my bookshelf for eternity. Thank you for a beautifully written book Stacey! I can’t wait to read more of your work!
I received a free copy of this book from the author and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Review of advance copy received from Indie Reviewers
The Alchemists was a highlight for me each day, urging me to get quickly to my bedtime read routine. The lyrical imagery in this immersive and original story captivated me from page 1 and now leaves me wondering and hoping I will someday hangout with the characters in this magically real world again.
Review of advance copy received from Author
The book was provided as an ARC from the author! Thank you for the opportunity!
Ending:
TW:
Spiciness: Closed door/fade to black
As per the Romance Writers of America, a book categorized as “romance” (and not just a romance subplot) has two have two things: a central love story and an emotionally satisfying and optimistic ending (better known as a happily ever after/HFA or happy for now/HFN ending) (Source: rwa.org/the-romance-genre). Without those two things, you do not have a book that should be in the romance category.
I will come back to this later, but first:
The Alchemists is a third person POV dark academia fantasy that switches back and forth between our FMC (Lily) and MMC (Sebastian). Our story is about two misfits who feel like they don’t fit in as much as they would like to (one because of her curse and the other because of his past). Both characters are students at Windermere College and use magic that is called Aether to learn, live, fight, love. Sebastian (or Seb) comes from old money, and Lily is the downtrodden cursed girl who everyone treats like trash. After they get unexpectedly paired, they learn new things about themselves and the world around them and try to keep each other safe by any means possible.
The first 30ish% of the book felt almost…pretentious in its use of “vocabulary” words, so it was a little difficult to get through that bit; after about the 30% mark, the story flowed a lot better, almost like the author had to shake off some nervousness before reaching her flow state.
The love story of Lily and Seb and the fact that they were both smart and accomplished, fairly well matched (outside of the curse) was really good/nice. I feel like sometimes in these types of books, either one character is way better than the other or it’s a “SURPRISE! MC has powers they didn’t know about!” There was a lot of LGBTQ+ representation in the book, with trans and bi characters. However, we do see that this society is snooty (like most of the upper crust), and do not like the queerness of our LGBT characters, much as it is in real life.
The villain/s felt almost too demonic/evil/bad, if that makes sense? Like there were no moral grey spots here, it was like every bad thing that a character could do, they did it. Additionally, I had some questions that were left unanswered And, although I really liked Seb’s friends (ride-or-die types) after they really get to know Lily, I wish they had apologized orsomething since they were also technically bullies/bystanders to the bullying in the before [before the book began]. Seb apologies like a million times, but Tori only apologies when she’s done something after Lily joins up.
And now, we are going to come back to what I said at the beginning of the review, about the romance genre.
The ending of this book The ending almost felt like a precipice that something was maybe going to happen eventually a while down the road, but that is not a true ending to a romance book with no sequels. Like you’re at the top of the rollercoaster, but instead of going down the hill and completing the ride, you get sent slowly backwards back to the station because the ride can’t function anymore.
I will say that this story did feel fairly different and had a lot of diverse characters in it. Honestly, the characters themselves (not the villains of course) is what kept this book from being lower than it is. The scene-setting also helped keep the score up, as I feel the descriptions were very easily imaginable and actually did feel very much like the “dark academia” the book touts itself as.
I hate the ending (and epilogue), but loved most of the story and characters, which is why this book is getting three stars from me.
Ending:
TW:
Spiciness: Closed door/fade to black
As per the Romance Writers of America, a book categorized as “romance” (and not just a romance subplot) has two have two things: a central love story and an emotionally satisfying and optimistic ending (better known as a happily ever after/HFA or happy for now/HFN ending) (Source: rwa.org/the-romance-genre). Without those two things, you do not have a book that should be in the romance category.
I will come back to this later, but first:
The Alchemists is a third person POV dark academia fantasy that switches back and forth between our FMC (Lily) and MMC (Sebastian). Our story is about two misfits who feel like they don’t fit in as much as they would like to (one because of her curse and the other because of his past). Both characters are students at Windermere College and use magic that is called Aether to learn, live, fight, love. Sebastian (or Seb) comes from old money, and Lily is the downtrodden cursed girl who everyone treats like trash. After they get unexpectedly paired, they learn new things about themselves and the world around them and try to keep each other safe by any means possible.
The first 30ish% of the book felt almost…pretentious in its use of “vocabulary” words, so it was a little difficult to get through that bit; after about the 30% mark, the story flowed a lot better, almost like the author had to shake off some nervousness before reaching her flow state.
The love story of Lily and Seb and the fact that they were both smart and accomplished, fairly well matched (outside of the curse) was really good/nice. I feel like sometimes in these types of books, either one character is way better than the other or it’s a “SURPRISE! MC has powers they didn’t know about!” There was a lot of LGBTQ+ representation in the book, with trans and bi characters. However, we do see that this society is snooty (like most of the upper crust), and do not like the queerness of our LGBT characters, much as it is in real life.
The villain/s felt almost too demonic/evil/bad, if that makes sense? Like there were no moral grey spots here, it was like every bad thing that a character could do, they did it. Additionally, I had some questions that were left unanswered And, although I really liked Seb’s friends (ride-or-die types) after they really get to know Lily, I wish they had apologized orsomething since they were also technically bullies/bystanders to the bullying in the before [before the book began]. Seb apologies like a million times, but Tori only apologies when she’s done something after Lily joins up.
And now, we are going to come back to what I said at the beginning of the review, about the romance genre.
The ending of this book The ending almost felt like a precipice that something was maybe going to happen eventually a while down the road, but that is not a true ending to a romance book with no sequels. Like you’re at the top of the rollercoaster, but instead of going down the hill and completing the ride, you get sent slowly backwards back to the station because the ride can’t function anymore.
I will say that this story did feel fairly different and had a lot of diverse characters in it. Honestly, the characters themselves (not the villains of course) is what kept this book from being lower than it is. The scene-setting also helped keep the score up, as I feel the descriptions were very easily imaginable and actually did feel very much like the “dark academia” the book touts itself as.
I hate the ending (and epilogue), but loved most of the story and characters, which is why this book is getting three stars from me.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I wasn't entirely sure what to expect when I started The Alchemists, but it quickly became one of those books that completely pulled me in. From the first few chapters, it was obvious that Stacey had created something special. The world-building is incredibly detailed without ever feeling overwhelming, and every page made me want to learn more about the magical society, its history, and the rules that govern it. This is the kind of fantasy that rewards readers who enjoy getting fully immersed in a rich, carefully crafted world.
One of the biggest strengths of this novel is its characters. Lily immediately became someone I wanted to root for. She's intelligent, vulnerable, and determined despite the prejudice she faces because of her heritage. Watching her navigate a world where she constantly feels like she doesn't belong was heartbreaking at times, but it also made her growth feel incredibly rewarding. Sebastian was equally compelling, although for very different reasons. On the surface, he seems like the confident, privileged golden boy, but as the story unfolds, you realize there's so much more happening beneath that polished exterior. I really enjoyed seeing both of their perspectives because it gave the story so much emotional depth.
The magic system is honestly one of my favorite parts of the book. It feels original while still being easy to follow, and I appreciated that it has clear rules and consequences. The concepts of alchemy, Æther, Words of Power, and magical education all fit together naturally. Rather than using magic simply as a way to solve problems, the author makes it feel like an extension of each character's identity and personal growth. That made every magical moment feel meaningful instead of just spectacular.
Another thing I loved was the writing itself. Stacey Strange has a beautiful way of describing both people and places. There were so many passages that I found myself rereading simply because they were so well written. At the same time, the prose never slowed the story down. The balance between descriptive writing, dialogue, humor, mystery, and action kept the pacing moving, and I never felt tempted to skim ahead. The relationships throughout the novel also deserve recognition. Whether it's friendship, family, rivalry, or romance, every interaction feels authentic. The friendships especially stood out to me because they weren't perfect. They were messy, supportive, complicated, and believable. Those relationships made the characters feel like real people instead of just fantasy archetypes.
What impressed me most, though, was how emotionally invested I became. There were moments that made me smile, others that genuinely hurt, and plenty of scenes where I couldn't stop reading because I needed to know what happened next. It's rare to find a fantasy novel that balances an intricate magical world with such strong emotional storytelling, but *The Alchemists* manages to do exactly that. The Alchemists is an outstanding fantasy novel that combines exceptional world-building, memorable characters, beautiful writing, and an engaging plot into a story that's difficult to put down. It feels like the beginning of something much bigger, and by the time I reached the end, I was already hoping there would be another installment. I would highly recommend this book to anyone who enjoys character-driven fantasy with intelligent magic, emotional depth, and a world you'll want to return to again and again.
I was not paid for the review.
One of the biggest strengths of this novel is its characters. Lily immediately became someone I wanted to root for. She's intelligent, vulnerable, and determined despite the prejudice she faces because of her heritage. Watching her navigate a world where she constantly feels like she doesn't belong was heartbreaking at times, but it also made her growth feel incredibly rewarding. Sebastian was equally compelling, although for very different reasons. On the surface, he seems like the confident, privileged golden boy, but as the story unfolds, you realize there's so much more happening beneath that polished exterior. I really enjoyed seeing both of their perspectives because it gave the story so much emotional depth.
The magic system is honestly one of my favorite parts of the book. It feels original while still being easy to follow, and I appreciated that it has clear rules and consequences. The concepts of alchemy, Æther, Words of Power, and magical education all fit together naturally. Rather than using magic simply as a way to solve problems, the author makes it feel like an extension of each character's identity and personal growth. That made every magical moment feel meaningful instead of just spectacular.
Another thing I loved was the writing itself. Stacey Strange has a beautiful way of describing both people and places. There were so many passages that I found myself rereading simply because they were so well written. At the same time, the prose never slowed the story down. The balance between descriptive writing, dialogue, humor, mystery, and action kept the pacing moving, and I never felt tempted to skim ahead. The relationships throughout the novel also deserve recognition. Whether it's friendship, family, rivalry, or romance, every interaction feels authentic. The friendships especially stood out to me because they weren't perfect. They were messy, supportive, complicated, and believable. Those relationships made the characters feel like real people instead of just fantasy archetypes.
What impressed me most, though, was how emotionally invested I became. There were moments that made me smile, others that genuinely hurt, and plenty of scenes where I couldn't stop reading because I needed to know what happened next. It's rare to find a fantasy novel that balances an intricate magical world with such strong emotional storytelling, but *The Alchemists* manages to do exactly that. The Alchemists is an outstanding fantasy novel that combines exceptional world-building, memorable characters, beautiful writing, and an engaging plot into a story that's difficult to put down. It feels like the beginning of something much bigger, and by the time I reached the end, I was already hoping there would be another installment. I would highly recommend this book to anyone who enjoys character-driven fantasy with intelligent magic, emotional depth, and a world you'll want to return to again and again.
I was not paid for the review.
July 9, 2026
Please note that I had the privilege of receiving an Advance Reader’s Copy of this book. All thoughts, however, are entirely my own.
With The Alchemists, Ms. Stacey Strange has written an elegant, enchanting, and occasionally heartbreaking novel. The halls of Windermere College are intriguing and richly described, painting a picture of Ivy League level class and sophistication. The magic sucks you in, and the plot, while a bit slow to get going, is clever and strikingly original- almost surprisingly so. However, what makes this book are the protagonists.
Lily Perkins and Sebastian Allsaires are a familiar dynamic on paper. He’s the golden boy of the school, she’s the outcast who’s literally cursed. However, throughout the book, my fears of a cookie-cutter romance proved to be unfounded. The narrative lets Lily and Seb breathe as separate characters before even letting them get to know each other, let alone beginning a relationship. Lily stole my heart with her clever mind and well-earned skepticism, but it was Seb, fighting his own demons in the form of family expectations and unresolved trauma, who I related to most. The relationship between Lily and Seb is one built on genuine moments of connection, rather than any one grand gesture. Speaking of, let’s discuss the relationship and the spice- or, more accurately, how tastefully it’s handled. I’m somewhat uncomfortable with explicit sex in books, (feel free to call me a prude,) so the way Ms. Strange handled the physical aspects of Lily and Seb’s relationship was greatly appreciated. The story provides a general idea of their activities but more often than not chooses to fade to black, letting readers imagine things for themselves.
It’s not just Seb and Lily who make the book work, though. Windermere’s halls contain a colorful supporting cast, ranging from the best of friends to the worst of enemies. The standout for me was Seb’s best friend Tori, though the third member of their trio, Asher, also deserves a mention. By introducing Seb, Tori, and Asher as a unit first, it gives Seb important characters to bounce off of before he and Lily become acquainted. Tori is a wonderful example of how to write queer representation- let us be as human as everyone else. Tori has her own successes and failures, and that was something of a relief. Her gender doesn’t define her character.
This book was nothing short of a joy to read. It’s cozy in some places, and unflinchingly honest in others. I will be completely transparent with the fact that I did not expect to love this book as much as I did. The Alchemists will slot happily onto my bookshelf alongside Ninth House and Babel as a fantastic work of dark academia.
Score: 8.5/10
With The Alchemists, Ms. Stacey Strange has written an elegant, enchanting, and occasionally heartbreaking novel. The halls of Windermere College are intriguing and richly described, painting a picture of Ivy League level class and sophistication. The magic sucks you in, and the plot, while a bit slow to get going, is clever and strikingly original- almost surprisingly so. However, what makes this book are the protagonists.
Lily Perkins and Sebastian Allsaires are a familiar dynamic on paper. He’s the golden boy of the school, she’s the outcast who’s literally cursed. However, throughout the book, my fears of a cookie-cutter romance proved to be unfounded. The narrative lets Lily and Seb breathe as separate characters before even letting them get to know each other, let alone beginning a relationship. Lily stole my heart with her clever mind and well-earned skepticism, but it was Seb, fighting his own demons in the form of family expectations and unresolved trauma, who I related to most. The relationship between Lily and Seb is one built on genuine moments of connection, rather than any one grand gesture. Speaking of, let’s discuss the relationship and the spice- or, more accurately, how tastefully it’s handled. I’m somewhat uncomfortable with explicit sex in books, (feel free to call me a prude,) so the way Ms. Strange handled the physical aspects of Lily and Seb’s relationship was greatly appreciated. The story provides a general idea of their activities but more often than not chooses to fade to black, letting readers imagine things for themselves.
It’s not just Seb and Lily who make the book work, though. Windermere’s halls contain a colorful supporting cast, ranging from the best of friends to the worst of enemies. The standout for me was Seb’s best friend Tori, though the third member of their trio, Asher, also deserves a mention. By introducing Seb, Tori, and Asher as a unit first, it gives Seb important characters to bounce off of before he and Lily become acquainted. Tori is a wonderful example of how to write queer representation- let us be as human as everyone else. Tori has her own successes and failures, and that was something of a relief. Her gender doesn’t define her character.
This book was nothing short of a joy to read. It’s cozy in some places, and unflinchingly honest in others. I will be completely transparent with the fact that I did not expect to love this book as much as I did. The Alchemists will slot happily onto my bookshelf alongside Ninth House and Babel as a fantastic work of dark academia.
Score: 8.5/10
Review of advance copy received from Author
Under the guise of a contest among peers, our main characters Lily and Sebastian work together to unravel the secrets lost to time of the school that has become their home, Windermere College. For Lily, it is a place of hidden corners and stolen spaces where she can avoid the reality of her cursed existence in a magical world that seemingly doesn’t want her there. For Sebastian it is a place of wonder and love, tainted by a trauma of the recent past that haunts him and a family that has pushed him away. Both of them are desperate for change, and they find it in ways they do not expect with shadows trailing behind the light.
The characters here each feel real and alive with strong motives, clear and understandable emotions, and more depth than first meets the eye. This applies not only to our main characters Lily and Sebastian, but also to the friends we discover on the way no matter how briefly we see them on the page. This led to an intense emotional connection with the characters and their story and made it difficult to put this one down. The intensity and intrigue only grows as you read and after the 50% mark, I just had to finish the rest of the book in one sitting (staying up far too late mind you).
My one critique is that I wish the book had been longer! There were a few conversations and scenes that I wish we stayed in for more time, relishing in the details of the world and the people in it. There are so many elements to this story that provide intrigue and depth that I wish we could have explored even further.
Overall, I found this book to be a captivating entry to the dark academia genre with a heartfelt romance that left me both blushing and heartbroken and a story that made my heart pound with both anxiety and delight. Definitely give this book a read if you like fantasy, magic, secrets and mystery, dark academia, low spice romance or all of the above!
This book was read as an ARC and the review above reflects my honest opinions.
The characters here each feel real and alive with strong motives, clear and understandable emotions, and more depth than first meets the eye. This applies not only to our main characters Lily and Sebastian, but also to the friends we discover on the way no matter how briefly we see them on the page. This led to an intense emotional connection with the characters and their story and made it difficult to put this one down. The intensity and intrigue only grows as you read and after the 50% mark, I just had to finish the rest of the book in one sitting (staying up far too late mind you).
My one critique is that I wish the book had been longer! There were a few conversations and scenes that I wish we stayed in for more time, relishing in the details of the world and the people in it. There are so many elements to this story that provide intrigue and depth that I wish we could have explored even further.
Overall, I found this book to be a captivating entry to the dark academia genre with a heartfelt romance that left me both blushing and heartbroken and a story that made my heart pound with both anxiety and delight. Definitely give this book a read if you like fantasy, magic, secrets and mystery, dark academia, low spice romance or all of the above!
This book was read as an ARC and the review above reflects my honest opinions.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Edit 7/6/26 - After sleeping and waking up thinking about the story (again), I realized that it deserves 5/5⭐️, as this was probably the most inclusive book that I have read to date. 💕
A pond is static; a river is boundless.
“Is it not as though we were created solely to complete, to complement the other?” - A letter from Cornelius Windmere to Selene
“In them, you were the moon. And I was drowning.”
—————————————————————
Academic setting. Contemporary fantasy romance. Young Adult. LBGTQ representation. Magic system.
- The story is about Sebastian Allsaires and Lily Perkins, two alchemy lab partners at Windmere College, as they uncover long-buried secrets that intertwine with their personal lives, friendships, school history, and unique magical elements.
- I enjoyed how the book was written. The scenes flowed naturally into each other, and I appreciate the foot notes and the appendix at the end of the book, explaining the magic system, the sport, and the other school talked about in the book. I do wish a few scenes had been given more detail and a little longer.
- I loved how the story tackled modern issues many young adults (or adults in general), experience, including topics that can be difficult to discuss. The inclusivity that was present throughout the book made it very meaningful to me.
- Favorite character would have to be Asher Vis. Artistic, quiet, and a very loyal friend. We all need an Asher and a Tori in our lives.
- My husband is hard of hearing, and the representation of the Deaf community, the beauty of sign language was the cherry on top.
- If you are looking for a romance with little to no spice, this is a great choice.
- Overall, I enjoyed this book a lot. It had me smiling and kicking my feet during certain scenes, and kept me awake late at night.
Thank you to the author for providing me with an advance review copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own.
A pond is static; a river is boundless.
“Is it not as though we were created solely to complete, to complement the other?” - A letter from Cornelius Windmere to Selene
“In them, you were the moon. And I was drowning.”
—————————————————————
Academic setting. Contemporary fantasy romance. Young Adult. LBGTQ representation. Magic system.
- The story is about Sebastian Allsaires and Lily Perkins, two alchemy lab partners at Windmere College, as they uncover long-buried secrets that intertwine with their personal lives, friendships, school history, and unique magical elements.
- I enjoyed how the book was written. The scenes flowed naturally into each other, and I appreciate the foot notes and the appendix at the end of the book, explaining the magic system, the sport, and the other school talked about in the book. I do wish a few scenes had been given more detail and a little longer.
- I loved how the story tackled modern issues many young adults (or adults in general), experience, including topics that can be difficult to discuss. The inclusivity that was present throughout the book made it very meaningful to me.
- Favorite character would have to be Asher Vis. Artistic, quiet, and a very loyal friend. We all need an Asher and a Tori in our lives.
- My husband is hard of hearing, and the representation of the Deaf community, the beauty of sign language was the cherry on top.
- If you are looking for a romance with little to no spice, this is a great choice.
- Overall, I enjoyed this book a lot. It had me smiling and kicking my feet during certain scenes, and kept me awake late at night.
Thank you to the author for providing me with an advance review copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own.
Review of advance copy
I wasn't sure what to expect when I first started this book, but it didn't take long before I was completely hooked.
The amount of detail the author put into the story was incredible. The world and its elements were so thoughtfully developed that I had to remind myself I was reading fiction. Every character brought a unique background and perspective, and the author seamlessly wove their stories together without ever pulling focus from the main plot.
Lily is a wonderful main character. She possesses a quiet strength, intelligence, and resilience that make her the true hero of the story despite everything she has endured. Rather than a typical enemies-to-lovers romance, this felt more like a journey from being overlooked to finally being truly seen.
Sebastian isn't a bully so much as someone working through his own trauma while learning what love, acceptance, and healing really look like. Their relationship develops naturally, making the emotional moments feel earned.
This isn't a spicy romance, it's full of angst, emotional tension, and heartfelt character growth. I also loved the friendships throughout the story, which served as wonderful reminders of what genuine friendship should look like.
The second half of the book had me in tears through multiple chapters, and I couldn't stop reading. Although I thought I had an idea of where the ending was headed, I never anticipated the twist or just how much it would make my heart ache. The ending is slightly open-ended, allowing readers to imagine what comes next while still feeling satisfying.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
The amount of detail the author put into the story was incredible. The world and its elements were so thoughtfully developed that I had to remind myself I was reading fiction. Every character brought a unique background and perspective, and the author seamlessly wove their stories together without ever pulling focus from the main plot.
Lily is a wonderful main character. She possesses a quiet strength, intelligence, and resilience that make her the true hero of the story despite everything she has endured. Rather than a typical enemies-to-lovers romance, this felt more like a journey from being overlooked to finally being truly seen.
Sebastian isn't a bully so much as someone working through his own trauma while learning what love, acceptance, and healing really look like. Their relationship develops naturally, making the emotional moments feel earned.
This isn't a spicy romance, it's full of angst, emotional tension, and heartfelt character growth. I also loved the friendships throughout the story, which served as wonderful reminders of what genuine friendship should look like.
The second half of the book had me in tears through multiple chapters, and I couldn't stop reading. Although I thought I had an idea of where the ending was headed, I never anticipated the twist or just how much it would make my heart ache. The ending is slightly open-ended, allowing readers to imagine what comes next while still feeling satisfying.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
July 22, 2026
The Alchemists is not a book that I expected to love as much as I did, which is saying a lot because I really did think I would love this book!
The world building is simply astounding. I want to take classes at Windermere, I want to sit in alchemy class, I want to do a magical scavenger hunt! And it's not just the world that is fully alive in this book, but every one of the characters too. It is so easy to fall in love with Lily, Seb, and all of their friends. And while I was learning so much about the main characters through their point of view chapters, I also got to discover depth to their friends, classmates, teachers, and the complex villains that live in this world.
The plot is intricate and well thought out. I love that there are multiple threads weaving their way throughout the plot. When I get into a book like this I'm always a little bit worried that the author will leave me hanging, but this wrapped up in an extremely satisfying ending that still left me wanting more of the story (a difficult feat to pull off, for sure). The first half of the book focuses on introducing everyone and everything. The beautiful prose and lyrical word play make it so easy to get caught up in the world that these characters inhabit. And when the action starts to ratchet up in the second half it is almost impossible to put the book down.
I'd recommend this book to just about anyone, regardless of what genres they might normally read, it's just that good!
I was gifted an ARC of this book in exchange for my honest and unbiased review.
The world building is simply astounding. I want to take classes at Windermere, I want to sit in alchemy class, I want to do a magical scavenger hunt! And it's not just the world that is fully alive in this book, but every one of the characters too. It is so easy to fall in love with Lily, Seb, and all of their friends. And while I was learning so much about the main characters through their point of view chapters, I also got to discover depth to their friends, classmates, teachers, and the complex villains that live in this world.
The plot is intricate and well thought out. I love that there are multiple threads weaving their way throughout the plot. When I get into a book like this I'm always a little bit worried that the author will leave me hanging, but this wrapped up in an extremely satisfying ending that still left me wanting more of the story (a difficult feat to pull off, for sure). The first half of the book focuses on introducing everyone and everything. The beautiful prose and lyrical word play make it so easy to get caught up in the world that these characters inhabit. And when the action starts to ratchet up in the second half it is almost impossible to put the book down.
I'd recommend this book to just about anyone, regardless of what genres they might normally read, it's just that good!
I was gifted an ARC of this book in exchange for my honest and unbiased review.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Thank you to the author for the opportunity to read this ARC in exchange for an honest review!
If dark academia, hidden magic, secret societies, and morally grey characters are your thing, The Alchemists delivers an atmospheric fantasy that pulls you into its mysterious world from the very first page.
One of my favorite aspects of this book was the setting. The moody academic atmosphere, ancient secrets, and layers of alchemical magic created the perfect backdrop for a story filled with intrigue and danger. It had that addictive "just one more chapter" feeling as each new revelation uncovered another piece of the puzzle.
The characters all carried their own ambitions, flaws, and secrets, making it difficult to know who could truly be trusted. I loved watching the relationships evolve as loyalties were tested, and the romantic tension added just the right amount of emotion without overshadowing the larger mystery unfolding throughout the story.
The magic system felt unique and thoughtfully woven into the world, giving the story a fresh take on fantasy while still embracing the classic dark academia aesthetic. There were a few moments where I would have loved a little more depth in certain plot points, but it never took away from how immersive the overall reading experience was.
Overall, The Alchemists is a compelling blend of mystery, magic, romance, and academic rivalry that will easily appeal to readers who love fantasy wrapped in gothic, scholarly vibes.
If dark academia, hidden magic, secret societies, and morally grey characters are your thing, The Alchemists delivers an atmospheric fantasy that pulls you into its mysterious world from the very first page.
One of my favorite aspects of this book was the setting. The moody academic atmosphere, ancient secrets, and layers of alchemical magic created the perfect backdrop for a story filled with intrigue and danger. It had that addictive "just one more chapter" feeling as each new revelation uncovered another piece of the puzzle.
The characters all carried their own ambitions, flaws, and secrets, making it difficult to know who could truly be trusted. I loved watching the relationships evolve as loyalties were tested, and the romantic tension added just the right amount of emotion without overshadowing the larger mystery unfolding throughout the story.
The magic system felt unique and thoughtfully woven into the world, giving the story a fresh take on fantasy while still embracing the classic dark academia aesthetic. There were a few moments where I would have loved a little more depth in certain plot points, but it never took away from how immersive the overall reading experience was.
Overall, The Alchemists is a compelling blend of mystery, magic, romance, and academic rivalry that will easily appeal to readers who love fantasy wrapped in gothic, scholarly vibes.
Review of advance copy received from Author
THE ALCHEMISTS is what I expect dark academia to be. The reader isn’t told what the students are supposed to be learning. We’re right in the classroom, learning about the magic system with them. For me, this provided the perfect opportunity to ease the reader into this world filled with magic and also to quickly come to terms with who each character truly is. Although I like footnotes, I didn’t really like them in this book (and it may be how it shows on my Kobo e-reader). When a new concept is introduced, the footnotes don’t show until the end of the chapter, and by that point, I’ve forgotten the context of the terms or documents previously referenced.
As a romance, it was great until the ending. For anything marketed as romance, I expect there to be some level of satisfaction. A big payoff for the reader, given how many intertwining conflicts are present in the story. The message of this story is powerful, but the ending didn’t feel complete. As a standalone, I wanted a more conclusive ending, not just with the entire book but with individual scenes as well. There were times I wanted to linger in a character’s psyche longer, for them to react to the situations they were put through. I don’t mind when books don’t have happy endings, but this one left me confused and unfulfilled. Its dark academia elements are strong, but sadly, the romance leaves much to be desired.
Thank you to the author for providing an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
As a romance, it was great until the ending. For anything marketed as romance, I expect there to be some level of satisfaction. A big payoff for the reader, given how many intertwining conflicts are present in the story. The message of this story is powerful, but the ending didn’t feel complete. As a standalone, I wanted a more conclusive ending, not just with the entire book but with individual scenes as well. There were times I wanted to linger in a character’s psyche longer, for them to react to the situations they were put through. I don’t mind when books don’t have happy endings, but this one left me confused and unfulfilled. Its dark academia elements are strong, but sadly, the romance leaves much to be desired.
Thank you to the author for providing an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Well well well where do I start from 🤔
Well first of all I would like to thank the auther for her trust in providing me with a advance copy second of all My God was the story good well it was as " good Like biting into your favorite dessert when you weren't expecting it "
The chemistry between the characters was just fabulous and I do not mean only in a romantic way but also intellectual manner they were both smart the FMC did not need unnecessary saving the MMC did not needed unnecessary hiding of his feeling. Loving there interaction and how much they were giving the made for each other feeling.
The world building was amazing there was good description of the Magic Academy that I got to imagine there was also the fact that how well the auther described the magic system
1 of the things I loved the most was how she included the morden things with the magic world like bi and trans characters and how she incorporated the game element in this so that it becomes intresting but not to heavily focused that it disrupts the whole story.
All in all this was a 5 star readthaks again for the auther for writing such a gem
Well first of all I would like to thank the auther for her trust in providing me with a advance copy second of all My God was the story good well it was as " good Like biting into your favorite dessert when you weren't expecting it "
The chemistry between the characters was just fabulous and I do not mean only in a romantic way but also intellectual manner they were both smart the FMC did not need unnecessary saving the MMC did not needed unnecessary hiding of his feeling. Loving there interaction and how much they were giving the made for each other feeling.
The world building was amazing there was good description of the Magic Academy that I got to imagine there was also the fact that how well the auther described the magic system
1 of the things I loved the most was how she included the morden things with the magic world like bi and trans characters and how she incorporated the game element in this so that it becomes intresting but not to heavily focused that it disrupts the whole story.
All in all this was a 5 star readthaks again for the auther for writing such a gem
Review of advance copy received from Author
I did not put this book down from the moment I started reading it, I just had to know what came next. There were so many excellent things about this book I doubt I can cover them all. The characters felt fleshed out and human with imperfections like the rest of us while still being the engaging characters a good book needs. They had winning personalities and drew me in so well I just had to keep reading. Not only that but every kind of moment was in this book, suspenseful, heartwarming, emotional, exciting… I think I experienced every emotion there is while reading. And don’t even get me started on the magic system Strange created, it is entirely a 10/10 on its own. I found myself wanting to learn even more about how the magic system, especially alchemy, worked right alongside our main characters. The magic felt believable and not just “I just cast fireball”, it felt real. I genuinely cannot wait to read more by Strange.
I was lucky enough to recieve an ARC of this book from the author and the review above reflects my honest opinions on it.
I was lucky enough to recieve an ARC of this book from the author and the review above reflects my honest opinions on it.
Review of advance copy received from Author
The Alchemists hit ALL the nostalgia buttons for me as someone raised on Harry Potter, but who has since disavowed the franchise thanks to Rowling's committed transphobia. I loved the casual inclusion of LGBTQ+ and signing characters, not as clumsy virtue signaling but as a natural, realistic, dynamic reflection of our own world. I stayed up late multiple nights in a row with this book (a rare enough event, for me), so engrossed in the mystery and deeply sympathetic characters. The magic felt logical and well-structured, and I really appreciated how there was more detail available in the footnotes/appendix for those who want it, but those who prefer to cruise along with the plot don't get bogged down in lengthy explanation. Bonus points for Lily and Seb's relationship with movement - that can be really tricky to translate to the page, but I could feel their love and mastery of dance through the words. Delicious.
I received an Advance Reader Copy of this book from the author, but have not been paid for this review.
I received an Advance Reader Copy of this book from the author, but have not been paid for this review.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I originally promised myself I would wait until my school semester ended to read The Alchemists, but once I started reading it, I couldn’t put it down!
Set at the elite Windermere College for the Ætheric Arts, this story follows Lily Perkins and Sebastian Allsaires. Lily is quiet, reserved, and outcast due to a curse. Sebastian is athletic, charming, and comes from a privileged background. The characters initially seem like opposites, but when they are assigned as lab partners, we begin to discover just how much they have in common. Their relationship only grows as they embark on an adventure to uncover secrets surrounding the school.
This book is so beautifully written, creating a world filled with magic and mysteries with characters that are wonderfully complex and entirely authentic. Even in a magical world, I saw myself and the people I love reflected in the very relatable conflicts characters faced. The ending left me in tears and entirely emotionally invested in a sequel and anything Stacey Strange decides to write next!
Set at the elite Windermere College for the Ætheric Arts, this story follows Lily Perkins and Sebastian Allsaires. Lily is quiet, reserved, and outcast due to a curse. Sebastian is athletic, charming, and comes from a privileged background. The characters initially seem like opposites, but when they are assigned as lab partners, we begin to discover just how much they have in common. Their relationship only grows as they embark on an adventure to uncover secrets surrounding the school.
This book is so beautifully written, creating a world filled with magic and mysteries with characters that are wonderfully complex and entirely authentic. Even in a magical world, I saw myself and the people I love reflected in the very relatable conflicts characters faced. The ending left me in tears and entirely emotionally invested in a sequel and anything Stacey Strange decides to write next!
Review of advance copy received from Author
I’ll be honest, normally, I'm not much of a reader. More often then not I start a book just to leave it unfinished. However, this book completely won me over. My curiosity was piqued by the dark academia/modern fantasy stylization and world-building. What really made this book so hard to put down for me, were the characters. They were so interesting, so lovable, and so real that I find I now miss them here at the end of their story. Their voices, development, and character arcs propel you through this book, and I wasn’t ready to let them go.
I also appreciated the references to alchemical/esoteric concepts and other cultures.
The setting was richly furnished with magic and a modern day twist. The plot and the characters keep you hooked throughout. My only wish, is that the book was longer to dive even deeper into the many layers of the world.
I also appreciated the references to alchemical/esoteric concepts and other cultures.
The setting was richly furnished with magic and a modern day twist. The plot and the characters keep you hooked throughout. My only wish, is that the book was longer to dive even deeper into the many layers of the world.
Review of advance copy received from Author
ARC REVIEW
My thoughts:
I started this yesterday after noon and just couldn’t put it down. 588 pages read in less than 24 hours. I was captivated by the story, the research that went into this world of magick (yes with a k). The history and the mystery surrounding Lily and the school itself. I loved the mental health representation. Tori telling Seb that he needs therapy, the LGBTQ representation. I was so enthralled by the slow-burn romance between Lily and Sebastian (Seb). I enjoyed the duel POV between the two. If I was to sum this up really it would this story is a journey of healing and finding out who you truly are.
I will say though as much as the ending made me have feels IT CAN’T END THERE!
I would highly recommend this dark academia, but read the trigger warnings before you do.
Thank you Stacey for allowing me to read your story and you are right “Words have Power”
My thoughts:
I started this yesterday after noon and just couldn’t put it down. 588 pages read in less than 24 hours. I was captivated by the story, the research that went into this world of magick (yes with a k). The history and the mystery surrounding Lily and the school itself. I loved the mental health representation. Tori telling Seb that he needs therapy, the LGBTQ representation. I was so enthralled by the slow-burn romance between Lily and Sebastian (Seb). I enjoyed the duel POV between the two. If I was to sum this up really it would this story is a journey of healing and finding out who you truly are.
I will say though as much as the ending made me have feels IT CAN’T END THERE!
I would highly recommend this dark academia, but read the trigger warnings before you do.
Thank you Stacey for allowing me to read your story and you are right “Words have Power”
Review of advance copy received from Author
This dark academia tale is an epic love story that has wrecked my heart with the emotional rollercoaster that comes with Seb and Lily’s story. They are two strong characters who have been broken by past traumas and rebuild by connection.
They endure dysfunctional family ties, trials, magical challenges and mysteries, scheming peers, and a curse leaving them with an unknown future. But they have the most loyal and supportive group of friends.
This is not a spicy dark academia romance. There’s a little heat but a lot of heart. There’s a great pace that kept me up past bedtime several nights and characters to adore. The story is both imaginative in its details and intricately woven to keep you on the edge of your seat.
Thank you to the author for sharing this ARC with me. This is my honest review.
PS: I want more Lily and Seb.
They endure dysfunctional family ties, trials, magical challenges and mysteries, scheming peers, and a curse leaving them with an unknown future. But they have the most loyal and supportive group of friends.
This is not a spicy dark academia romance. There’s a little heat but a lot of heart. There’s a great pace that kept me up past bedtime several nights and characters to adore. The story is both imaginative in its details and intricately woven to keep you on the edge of your seat.
Thank you to the author for sharing this ARC with me. This is my honest review.
PS: I want more Lily and Seb.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Wow, talk about dark academia.
I had the best time reading this book and kept staying up later than I should have to read it. It was so easy to get caught up in the world of the book (which is simultaneously our world and not our world. Unless you're magic? I don't know you.)
I actually cared about the characters and was invested in what they were going through. I started worrying about my friend Lily today while I was working and then realized, oh wait, I don't have a friend named Lily. I have a book with a character named Lily.
Basically, read this book if you like dark academia, fantasy, or a world full of magic.
Thank you to the author for an ARC of this book, in exchange for an honest review!
I had the best time reading this book and kept staying up later than I should have to read it. It was so easy to get caught up in the world of the book (which is simultaneously our world and not our world. Unless you're magic? I don't know you.)
I actually cared about the characters and was invested in what they were going through. I started worrying about my friend Lily today while I was working and then realized, oh wait, I don't have a friend named Lily. I have a book with a character named Lily.
Basically, read this book if you like dark academia, fantasy, or a world full of magic.
Thank you to the author for an ARC of this book, in exchange for an honest review!
July 3, 2026
The Alchemist is another acadamia based novel, based on two characters from different cultures one elitist, and one half mage, this novel was slower paced than any previous novel and was disappointing, as was expecting something more interesting from those before.
The character development was a bit haphazard and world building was just average, this is more like a second draft, the plot twists were adequately executed, and plots had not yet come together fully.
The fundamental storyline has many options, but finding one with so many academy based books after Harry Potter, this was well below average sadly, normally I’d have DNF’d the book, however, I wanted to give it a chance and persevered with it.
The character development was a bit haphazard and world building was just average, this is more like a second draft, the plot twists were adequately executed, and plots had not yet come together fully.
The fundamental storyline has many options, but finding one with so many academy based books after Harry Potter, this was well below average sadly, normally I’d have DNF’d the book, however, I wanted to give it a chance and persevered with it.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I really enjoyed this book! It was fun, and emotional story. The world building and the magick were really interesting, Cantrèa was a cool sport and I thought it was an awesome edition to the world. I really liked the footnotes added in with the world building, it gave you the option of learning more while not having to worry about being overwhelmed with too much information.
The love story was adorable and heartfelt, the way characters grew both together and individually was one of the highlights in the book for me
Their support of each other's mental health in their relationship felt real and endearing.
I'm honestly really glad to have had the opportunity to read the ARC and will recommend to all of my bookish friends
The love story was adorable and heartfelt, the way characters grew both together and individually was one of the highlights in the book for me
Their support of each other's mental health in their relationship felt real and endearing.
I'm honestly really glad to have had the opportunity to read the ARC and will recommend to all of my bookish friends
Review of advance copy received from Author
I loved The Alchemists, it was the magical dark academia book I didn’t know that I needed. The writing was witty and delightful. The plot and magic system were both so interesting that I tore through the book. It reminded me a bit of The Magicians in the best way possible.
The pacing of this book was great for bringing the reader into the world and the concepts of the magic system. I loved how the author included several appendices going even further into the world and systems. The character growth for both Lily and Seb, and several secondary characters, is apparent and so satisfying. I truly loved the ending.
Thank you to the Author, Stacey Strange, for an advanced copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.
The pacing of this book was great for bringing the reader into the world and the concepts of the magic system. I loved how the author included several appendices going even further into the world and systems. The character growth for both Lily and Seb, and several secondary characters, is apparent and so satisfying. I truly loved the ending.
Thank you to the Author, Stacey Strange, for an advanced copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.
Review of advance copy received from Author
One of the most thought out and well planned magic systems I’ve read in a long time. Fantastic LGBTQ and mental health rep. The dual POV was super well done showing how Seb thought interactions went versus Lily. It took me a little while to get into the story, but once I was, I had trouble putting it down. Seb is such a sap, and I love that about him. Lily very much feels like the fish out of water. I was expecting a bit more of them being lab partners, but the mysteries they worked to solve made up for that.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I thoroughly enjoyed this book—I was hooked the whole way through and cared about the characters, wanting things to work out well for them. I read large portions in the middle of the night while rocking my teething baby, and it made the sleepless nights a whole lot easier having Seb and Lily’s story to look forward to, which is probably some of the highest praise I can give in this season of my life!
Review of advance copy
The Alchemists is an academia novel about Seb and Lily who come from two very different backgrounds which are both very well written. The magic system is unique and different from other books. There is a game element to the story which keeps things interesting. The first half is slower, but once you get to the second half it really starts moving, and the ending is great! Doesn’t end on a cliffhanger, but there is room for another book. This book is low spice.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Such a magical, enjoyable debut! I just finished the ARC, & I'm already ready for a sequel. Once I read the appendices in the back it was easy enough to understand the magic systems. I really loved the depth of the characters and their relationships. This book is perfect for anyone who loves Harry Potter - but it's queer-inclusive!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Hands down one of my top reads of the year, ♾️⭐️’s.
This book has emotional damage, LGBTQ+ & mental health rep, fantastic found family, academia, and so much science to nerd out over.
I devoured all 550+ pages and am now left with a gapping hole in my heart that needs more Lily & Seb.
Stacey, I don’t know what kind of voodoo you put on these pages, but I need MORE!!!
This book has emotional damage, LGBTQ+ & mental health rep, fantastic found family, academia, and so much science to nerd out over.
I devoured all 550+ pages and am now left with a gapping hole in my heart that needs more Lily & Seb.
Stacey, I don’t know what kind of voodoo you put on these pages, but I need MORE!!!
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