In a glittering alternate Los Angeles, alchemy is the hidden art of transformation, a powerful substance marketed to the elite as a drug that promises perfection. Controlled by two rival syndicates, Grand Central and Lumines, the city exists on a razor edge of violence. When two childhood friends, Sam and Ari, find themselves on opposite sides of this escalating conflict, their loyalties and ambitions threaten to destroy everything they know. This sweeping adult debut explores the high cost of perfection and the deadly nature of magical warfare.

Why You Should Read?

• Experience a high-stakes contemporary fantasy that blends the atmosphere of The Godfather with the magical intrigue of The Magicians.
• Follow a gripping story of star-crossed ambition set against the backdrop of a reimagined, opulent Los Angeles.
• Discover a complex world where alchemy serves as both a source of power and a catalyst for a brewing war.

About the Author

Marie Lu is the number one New York Times bestselling author known for her immersive world-building and compelling character-driven narratives. Her work has captivated readers across the globe, establishing her as a prominent voice in contemporary fantasy and young adult fiction.