Author: Kacen Callender
Publisher: Tor Teen
Publication Date: 6 February 2024
Pages: 375
Format: eBook - EPUB
Genre: YA LGBT Fantasy
Source: ARC via NetGalley
For Ash Woods, practicing alchemy is a crime.
Only an elite few are legally permitted to study the science of magic—so when Ash is rejected by Lancaster College of Alchemic Science, he takes a job as the school’s groundskeeper instead, forced to learn alchemy in secret.
When he’s discovered by the condescending and brilliant apprentice Ramsay Thorne, Ash is sure he's about to be arrested—but instead of calling the reds, Ramsay surprises Ash by making him an offer: Ramsay will keep Ash's secret if he helps her find the legendary Book of Source, a sacred text that gives its reader extraordinary power.
As Ash and Ramsay work together and their feelings for each other grow, Ash discovers their mission is more dangerous than he imagined, pitting them against influential and powerful alchemists—Ash’s estranged father included. Ash’s journey takes him through the cities and wilds across New Anglia, forcing him to discover his own definition of true power and how far he and other alchemists will go to seize it.
Infinity Alchemist was a fun and entertaining YA fantasy read. I enjoyed the premise and the world building was mostly well handled (although the constant references to 'the Source' kept making me think of 'the Force'). Once or twice I had some queries on how things worked, but that was minor and didn't pull me out of the story. Ash and Ramsay (and Callum) were all interesting characters and it was great to see the LGBT rep. The only downside I'd say was that, after all the build up, the ending felt a little rushed and too easily resolved. But it was still a satisfying conclusion in many ways, making this a good standalone read for YA fantasy fans. I am giving it four stars.
I received this book as a free eBook ARC via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
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