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. 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
