- This prequel transports readers back through time into the deepest archives and hidden motivations of the Rebel Branch.

- Timely subject matter includes gender fluidity, rebellion, and reproductive technology/rights. Themes of free will, choice, and the inherent abuses of power reflect the political dynamic we currently see in our world.

- Author did post-doctoral work in late-medieval alchemy and translates her expertise into genre fiction that can be enjoyed by readers with no knowledge of the subject. Fortunately, given her last name, the book appears on fantasy shelves beside George RR Martin's A Song of Ice and Fire series.

- The Alchemists' Council series has been optioned for television.