Alkrem

Magic wasn’t just his birthright, it was his destiny.

Marta Palazzesi, Christopher Turner

$29.99

Hardback

Forthcoming
Pre-Order now

QTY:

English

Red Comet Press LLC
18 December 2025

Fantasy & magical realism (Children's&YA); Mysteries & the supernatural (Children's&YA); Young Adult Fantasy

Award-winning author Marta Palazzesi brings us an ambitious and captivating novel in the form of a fast-paced fantasy with spectacular settings and heart-pounding action

Theo is about to turn 13 when everything he knows changes in an instant. At the stroke of midnight, when his Apto, the animal guide that accompanies Archemists throughout their lives, is due to appear, he instead meets a fire fox, the strongest, fiercest, and most-loyal of companions of the Alkrem. Thus, Theo discovers that he is an Alkrem—people who can create magical potions, wield powerful weapons, and have been vilified—and later massacred—by their once-allies, the Archemists. The Archemists are now in power, and, in a raid on Theo’s house, have beaten Theo’s father and taken him to prison. From this moment on, the boy’s goal is to find the Alkrexa, the mighty Alkrem weapon capable of healing any wound, and saving his father’s life. Along the way, Theo will learn that the truth is not what he has always been taught. This heart-pounding fantasy thriller will enthrall readers to the last page as Theo struggles to complete his quest to uncover the truth and save the only family he has ever known.

By: Marta Palazzesi
Translated by: Christopher Turner
Imprint: Red Comet Press LLC
Country of Publication: United States
Dimensions: Height: 229mm, Width: 152mm, Spine: 33mm
ISBN: 9781636551500
ISBN 10: 1636551505
Pages: 372
Publication Date: 18 December 2025
Recommended Age: From 8 to 12 years
Audience: Children/juvenile , English as a second language
Format: Hardback
Publisher's Status: Forthcoming

MARTA PALAZZESI is an award-winning author of books for children and young people, translator, and consultant for publishing and film production companies. She is part of the Superheroes Training Center, a nonprofit organization that holds creative writing workshops in middle and high schools. Her last novel, Mist, was hailed by bestselling author Katherine Applegate as a “not-to-be-missed tale of courage and compassion.” Palazzesi’s books reflect her great passion for animals. Alkrem combines this passion with the high drama of a fantasy-adventure. Palazzesi lives with her husband, two children and dogs, Tango and Mambo, in Milan, Italy. Follow her on instagram at marta_palazzesi. CHRISTOPHER TURNER is an Italian to English translator, editor, and professional writer. He has translated many children’s books into English in his 30-year career including the popular Geronimo Stilton books. He lives in Dorking, Surrey in England. Learn more at: www.chris-turner.net

Reviews for Alkrem: Magic wasn’t just his birthright, it was his destiny.

""This stand-alone sword-and-sorcery fantasy is a page-turner propelled by captivating characters and frequent battles. Like many reluctant chosen ones, Theo is a virtuous protagonist. He breaks the rules, but only to protect those he loves. Theo’s experience navigating two starkly different cultures adds an intriguing layer to the lush worldbuilding. Especially fascinating is the way elixirs and weapons are used combatively. An intriguing, fast-paced fantasy with appeal for fans of Percy Jackson."" * Kirkus Reviews *