We were incredibly proud to welcome Ashley Andersen into Book Hero this week to sign copies of her debut novel, Malachite.
With a team full of romantasy lovers, it’s safe to say the excitement levels were high. Getting to meet Ashley in person was such a highlight for all of us, and she absolutely lived up to it. She’s warm, down-to-earth, and so much fun to chat to, the kind of author you instantly want to see succeed.
There’s something extra special about hosting a Kiwi author, especially one making serious waves in the romantasy world. Ashley’s debut has already captured readers’ attention, and it’s easy to see why. With its rich world-building, compelling romance, and addictive tension, Malachite feels right at home alongside the kind of stories fans of Sarah J. Maas and Rebecca Yarros can’t get enough of. Definitely one to watch.
Ashley is also such an inspiring force behind the scenes. As a mum of two and the creator of the hugely popular Bookstagram @ashs_reads, she’s built an incredible community around her love of books. Seeing her step into the role of debut author, backed by that same passion and connection to readers, is something we’re really proud to celebrate.
Set in a vivid academy setting with a layered magic system, Malachite follows Aria as she navigates power, danger, and shifting alliances within the walls of Valmora. At its heart is the dynamic between Aria and Sebastian, full of tension, intrigue, and just the right amount of heat. It’s a story about strength, control, and what happens when the lines between ally and enemy start to blur.
And because we couldn’t resist, we put her through a round of quickfire questions too:
Quickfire QUESTIONS
Choose your unit: Malachite, Opal or Agate
Elemental Magic or no magic at all
Rule-breaker or top-of-the-class student
Enemies to lovers or friends to lovers
Slow burn Slow burn or instant sparks
Found Family or going it alone
Power or control
Academy life or life outside the walls
Train for war or run from it
Sebastian: Ally or enemy?
If you had no magic, would you still stay at Valmora? Absolutely not! I would not survive!
Dream casting for Aria and Sebastian?
No I cant! Because I feel like everyone would interpret them differently!
You’ll have to watch the full video to hear all her answers 👀
A huge thank you to Ashley for taking the time to visit us. We love being able to support local authors, especially at the beginning of what feels like such an exciting journey. We can’t wait to see what she does next… watch this space.
Signed copies of Malachite are in store now, but not for long ✨
Malachite delivers a deliciously moody dark academia fantasy with just the right amount of spice.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Think dark Harry Potter meets Fourth Wing and Zodiac Academy, it was such a fast paced read and I genuinely struggled to put the book down and get back to reality.
The world building flows so effortlessly which had me completely immersed, without ever feeling overwhelmed by the information. While I would’ve loved to have had a little more backstory on the war I suspect this will be explored in more detail in book two. Although much of the book is based within the academy , Anderson has created a magical world that feels layered and expansive and I’m excited to see how she builds on this in the next installment.
The main character Arianell has faced many tragic things in her past and throughout the book she shows the power of resilience and perseverance in the face of adversity. All the characters are flawed, authentic and emotionally raw which makes their journeys quite engaging. Sebastian definitely gave me Xaden energy (minus the shadows) and it really does feel like Arianell and him have such a deep connection and would truly die for the other. I also loved the friendships that Arianell built with Tilly and Xavier, which added some warmth between the darker parts of the story.
For a debut , Anderson has created a unique magical system in an otherwise familiar setting and I am looking forward to seeing where the second book takes these characters and this world.
You’ll love this if you like:
- Best Friend’s Brother
- Enemies (ish) to Lovers
- Excellent Banter
- Slow Burn Romance
- Academy Setting
- Magical Powers