Legendary Pays $3M+ for Book Rights Based on HP Fanfic

Legendary Pictures has reportedly secured movie rights to SenLinYu's upcoming dark fantasy novel Alchemised in a deal exceeding $3 million, marking one of the most substantial pre-publication acquisitions in publishing history.

Record-Breaking Deal for Unpublished Fantasy Novel

Industry reports from The Hollywood Reporter indicate Legendary Pictures made this aggressive early bid to outpace competing studios. Sources suggest this may represent the highest-ever price paid for unpublished book rights, before adjusting for inflation.

From Fanfiction Origins to Original Fantasy

While presenting an original magical universe upon its September 2025 release, Alchemised traces its creative lineage to Harry Potter fanfiction. Author SenLinYu (known as "Sen") initially gained recognition for Dramione stories - exploring a romantic dynamic between Draco Malfoy and Hermione Granger - before developing this completely original work.

The novel immerses readers in Paladia, a war-ravaged world of necromantic arts and alchemical mysteries. As described on the official website: "A woman haunted by lost memories battles through this brutal landscape while confronting a man determined to uncover her hidden past."

The Author's Remarkable Journey

SenLinYu's writing career began modestly, composing stories on a phone during their child's naps. This evolved into a global phenomenon, particularly through Manacled, a Harry Potter fanfiction that maintains a 4.63-star average across 140,000+ Goodreads reviews. Their collective works have achieved over 20 million downloads and been translated into 23 languages.

"Legendary's extraordinary commitment to this project humbles me," Sen told THR. "I'm thrilled to see Paladia's world realized on screen."

Alchemised - Preorder Now

15See it at Amazon | See it at Amazon UK

While the film adaptation remains in early development, readers can experience Alchemised when the novel releases in weeks. In related fantasy news, discover how Kit Harington and other stars recently contributed to the new Harry Potter audiobook production.