Dear Fantasy Reader Podcast: Interview with Stacey McEwan - "A Forbidden Alchemy"

Release Date: July 17, 2025

Introduction

In this episode of Dear Fantasy Reader, hosts Hannah, Kinsey, and Carly engage in an in-depth interview with Stacey McEwan, the acclaimed author of the romantic fantasy novel "A Forbidden Alchemy". Described by listeners as a "deep dive book club with your besties," this podcast episode delves into the intricacies of Stacey's latest work, exploring her inspirations, writing process, and the complex magic system she crafted for her captivating world.

Author’s Background and Inspiration

Stacey McEwan opens up about her journey from being a primary school teacher in Australia to a full-time author. She shares, “[...] I switched to this a couple of years ago. I sort of was discovered, I guess is the best word to use on social media” (03:40).

Inspiration Behind "A Forbidden Alchemy": Stacey draws heavily from historical fiction and her admiration for the gritty atmosphere of "Peaky Blinders." She explains, “I adored Peaky Blinders, which is not set in the Victorian era, set post-war, but it still very much has that grittiness” (22:43). This blend of historical grit with magical elements forms the backbone of her novel, creating a unique and immersive world.

Book Overview and World-Building

Elevator Pitch: Stacey provides a succinct overview of "A Forbidden Alchemy": “There’s a world that’s divided between the magical and the non-magical. I call them artisans and craftsmen. Our two main characters, Patrick and Nina, meet for the first time at 12 years old and uncover a devastating national secret that sets off a revolution” (05:32).

Magic System: The magic system in Stacey's world is meticulously designed, with roles such as artisans (Earth Charmer, Fire Charmer, etc.), masons, smiths, cutters, and scribblers. Stacey elaborates, “the magic system was really... it's hard to believe that that particular FMC was able to take out the strongest warrior... because she was born and raised in this really hostile, terrifying, dog-eat-dog environment” (15:04).

Writing Process and Character Development

From Plotter to Hybrid: Initially a meticulous plotter, Stacey has shifted to a hybrid approach for this book. She states, “I do plot. I know how the story is going to end... but getting from A to B is now a little bit more up in the air for me” (18:37). This flexibility has allowed her to infuse more spontaneity and depth into her storytelling.

Character Insights: Stacey shares her favorite character to write, Patrick Coulson, describing him as “morally bankrupt” yet “loyal and empathetic” within his family (36:36). She also reflects on her own influences, likening Theo’s character development to real-life experiences with her sister.

Release Day Anxiety and Coping Mechanisms

Stacey candidly discusses the emotional rollercoaster leading up to a book release. “[...] two days before release and I start to imagine that everything’s going to go wrong” (06:51). To manage anxiety, she has adopted strategies like avoiding social media and spending time with family to regain a sense of normalcy post-release.

Cliffhanger and Reader Reactions

Brutal Cliffhanger: Stacey acknowledges the intense reaction to the book's cliffhanger ending. She shares her initial underestimation of its impact: “I truly didn’t think that it was that bad of a cliffhanger” (65:41). The overwhelming responses have validated her intent to leave readers on the edge of their seats.

Swifty Mania: Taylor Swift Segment

In a fun twist, hosts incorporate a Swifty Mania segment, aligning Taylor Swift songs with characters from "A Forbidden Alchemy." Stacey participates enthusiastically, revealing her favorite Taylor Swift album is "Speak Now," and her top song is "Loss of My Life" (74:24). This segment highlights the cultural intersections between fantasy literature and contemporary music fandoms.

Trivia Challenge: Are You Smarter Than a Fangirl?

The episode features a rapid-fire trivia segment where Stacey and the hosts test each other’s knowledge of "A Forbidden Alchemy." Stacey impressively answers questions about the magic system, character details, and plot points, showcasing her deep familiarity with her own work.

Reader’s Letter and Final Thoughts

The episode concludes with a heartfelt Reader's Letter expressing appreciation for Stacey’s ability to blend chaos, emotion, and intricate world-building. Stacey thanks the hosts for their kind words and shares her excitement for future projects, promising more captivating stories and deeper lore in the forthcoming books.

Notable Quote: “Thank you for creating complex characters who persevere mostly because you refuse to let them catch a break” (93:52) – Reader's Letter.

Conclusion

This episode of Dear Fantasy Reader offers an intimate glimpse into Stacey McEwan’s creative mind, her passion for building a richly textured fantasy world, and her dedication to storytelling that resonates deeply with readers. Whether you’re a longtime fan or new to her work, this interview provides valuable insights and sets the stage for the eagerly anticipated continuation of the Empyrean series.

Subscribe now to stay updated on future episodes and join the enchanting conversations that make Dear Fantasy Reader a haven for fantasy aficionados!

For more details, quotes, and timestamps, refer to the show notes linked below.