What do you think?
Rate this book
Wander The Night
The fey can't lie, but secrets never die.
Robin Goodfellow is at home in a world of chaos, and there is plenty while serving in the Green Court of Faerie, a place of veiled magical deceit, and fickle immortal kings and queens.
When it is discovered a servant is the rightful successor to the throne, Robin's kingdom faces falling apart as a dangerous invading land prepares to steal the heir for their own cruel ends. In order to save the secret prince he helped raise, Robin must rebel against everything he has ever known.
To come out alive, he will have to take action and sacrifice every false identity he's ever created. Because who he really is-beyond the trickster persona and under the hilarious wit and sarcasm-easily could be more valuable and feared to his power-hungry enemies than to himself. Treacherous adventures, deadly consequences, and powerful truths that cannot be unspoken push the bonds between friends and family alike to their lethal limits, but will they break?
Robin Goodfellow is at home in a world of chaos, and there is plenty while serving in the Green Court of Faerie, a place of veiled magical deceit, and fickle immortal kings and queens.
When it is discovered a servant is the rightful successor to the throne, Robin's kingdom faces falling apart as a dangerous invading land prepares to steal the heir for their own cruel ends. In order to save the secret prince he helped raise, Robin must rebel against everything he has ever known.
To come out alive, he will have to take action and sacrifice every false identity he's ever created. Because who he really is-beyond the trickster persona and under the hilarious wit and sarcasm-easily could be more valuable and feared to his power-hungry enemies than to himself. Treacherous adventures, deadly consequences, and powerful truths that cannot be unspoken push the bonds between friends and family alike to their lethal limits, but will they break?
308 pages, Hardcover
First published June 6, 2023
2 people are currently reading
229 people want to read
About the author
Sydney Cobb
2 books11 followersSydney Cobb is a junior high teacher with an MA in English. A nomad at heart, she loves to travel, both in person and in books, but ultimately returns to somewhere with lots of trees. Sydney’s special talents include memorizing movie quotes, delivering snappy one-liners, and providing useless yet intriguing trivia about a variety of topics. She is the author of young adult fantasy THE DARKNESS OF STARS and adult fantasy WANDER THE NIGHT. You can find her on Instagram and TikTok @sydneyc_writesfantasy.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 11 of 11 reviews
August 3, 2023
Wander the Night tells the story of Robin Goodfellow, the famous trickster & Puck and his life long after his adventures in A Midsummer Night's Dream.
At the start of the book we find Puck at the Green Court with working Oberon and trying to enjoy the revel for the newly born princess but when Queen Mab declares she is to visit Oberon begins to panic. He has secrets, important things he has hidden from Tatiana that could break The Green Court in two. As Robin is invoked and knows he decides to send him away and hope Mab doesn’t find out but, you know that that’s just not going to happen, right guys…😏❤️
During the book we follow Puck through The Green Court, The Grey Court, the human world and even beyond that!! The pace of Wander the Night is amazing!! It keeps you so engaged, the balance of description and dialogue is perfect too!! And the characters?! They’re amazing, so individual and well developed 🥰😍 I loved Puck interactions with all the different characters, it showed his age and how is puck parentage comes out even when he doesn’t realise ❤️❤️
I love a Shakespeare retelling and this book did not disappoint me. I love a book that has any fae in it and this is chockablock!! 5✨
At the start of the book we find Puck at the Green Court with working Oberon and trying to enjoy the revel for the newly born princess but when Queen Mab declares she is to visit Oberon begins to panic. He has secrets, important things he has hidden from Tatiana that could break The Green Court in two. As Robin is invoked and knows he decides to send him away and hope Mab doesn’t find out but, you know that that’s just not going to happen, right guys…😏❤️
During the book we follow Puck through The Green Court, The Grey Court, the human world and even beyond that!! The pace of Wander the Night is amazing!! It keeps you so engaged, the balance of description and dialogue is perfect too!! And the characters?! They’re amazing, so individual and well developed 🥰😍 I loved Puck interactions with all the different characters, it showed his age and how is puck parentage comes out even when he doesn’t realise ❤️❤️
I love a Shakespeare retelling and this book did not disappoint me. I love a book that has any fae in it and this is chockablock!! 5✨
June 8, 2024
I bought it specifically because I'm a huge fan of the fey (this word has as many spellings as there are stories about them, it seems), but not a huge fan of romance or some modern takes on the fae, and the book was advertised as a fey book with ace protagonist and no romance – perfect for me then.
(Then I read the first few pages on amazon and I already knew I had to read it.)
Overall it was very enjoyable. I read A Midsummer Night's Dream beforehand for the first time, and I have to admit, seeing the little references made it more fun, even though it probably wasn't necessary. I think the trainwreck that was Puck and Oberon's relationship was incredibly interesting, even though it was very much not what I expected going into this book. I described it to my friends as a sort of situation where they keep riling each other up, and every next thing they do is worse than the previous one so the other one's reaction to it is even worse – and that feels like it's happening for a good part of the book, which is certainly interesting and dramatic, even if it gets repetitive.
And I have to say, I also liked the 'lowest point' of the book and what happens afterwards, so travelling through the human world and the wilder parts of the fey world – even though this of course leaves me with more questions about how this part of the world works (for example, fey in the human world: are there communities of fey in rural areas? There should be, if the presence of iron which is so abundant in the cities makes fey sick. This is however hardly a criticism, more just me being curious about the world, which I would love to see explored more.
One criticism I would have is that I felt some of the problems were not resolved with as much importance as they were made to be. The best example of that would be probably , which was as a big problem that continued for quite a large part of the book, but was eventually resolved very easily without even giving it attention on page.
Another thing I would've appreciated would be showing how Mab came to know a few secrets throughout the book, and making it her own accomplishments – she was a great villain, and oh wow the 'Oh darling, you should've stayed dead' was such a cool quote. The mystery of how she knows so much is part of what makes her look so dangerous, but some of the things I feel weren't explained in the end and it would be so cool to see how she obtained this knowledge. Showing how smart an antagonist is by revealing their methods allows the reader appreciate their wits, after all.
But like I said, overall very enjoyable, quick read, that I had a lot of fun with!
(Then I read the first few pages on amazon and I already knew I had to read it.)
Overall it was very enjoyable. I read A Midsummer Night's Dream beforehand for the first time, and I have to admit, seeing the little references made it more fun, even though it probably wasn't necessary. I think the trainwreck that was Puck and Oberon's relationship was incredibly interesting, even though it was very much not what I expected going into this book. I described it to my friends as a sort of situation where they keep riling each other up, and every next thing they do is worse than the previous one so the other one's reaction to it is even worse – and that feels like it's happening for a good part of the book, which is certainly interesting and dramatic, even if it gets repetitive.
And I have to say, I also liked the 'lowest point' of the book and what happens afterwards, so travelling through the human world and the wilder parts of the fey world – even though this of course leaves me with more questions about how this part of the world works (for example, fey in the human world: are there communities of fey in rural areas? There should be, if the presence of iron which is so abundant in the cities makes fey sick. This is however hardly a criticism, more just me being curious about the world, which I would love to see explored more.
One criticism I would have is that I felt some of the problems were not resolved with as much importance as they were made to be. The best example of that would be probably , which was as a big problem that continued for quite a large part of the book, but was eventually resolved very easily without even giving it attention on page.
Another thing I would've appreciated would be showing how Mab came to know a few secrets throughout the book, and making it her own accomplishments – she was a great villain, and oh wow the 'Oh darling, you should've stayed dead' was such a cool quote. The mystery of how she knows so much is part of what makes her look so dangerous, but some of the things I feel weren't explained in the end and it would be so cool to see how she obtained this knowledge. Showing how smart an antagonist is by revealing their methods allows the reader appreciate their wits, after all.
But like I said, overall very enjoyable, quick read, that I had a lot of fun with!
December 13, 2023
Robin Goodfellow would like it known that he did NOT live in Ancient Greece. No seriously, there were a few things wrong in that bard’s story, things that have lasting consequences to him and the faerie courts, and when those things come to light he gets tangled up in the always dramatic court intrigue to keep those he cares for safe.
I enjoyed the fairly subtle asexual representation and references (don’t think I didn’t see you black ring) along side the other queer diversity rep. I think there were also a few references to several Shakespearian plays, particularly Midsummer Night’s Dream, but as I never actually read that one it kind of went over my head.
There were a few things I saw coming, but others that surprised me a little bit. Like Robin himself, the plot seems to be running on no longer term plan at all and just a feeling. It’s not a complaint - as this was a first person POV it made sense that the plot is just as opaque and out-of-the-blue to us as it is to Puck.
Once or twice, I noticed things that could have benefited from an editor - like Robin using the baby princesses name before he could have possible have know it - but those were relatively rare and minor.
CW: Death, Parental Death, Infidelity (not by POV character), Serious Injury (of POV character)
Received the book for free through BookSirens.
I enjoyed the fairly subtle asexual representation and references (don’t think I didn’t see you black ring) along side the other queer diversity rep. I think there were also a few references to several Shakespearian plays, particularly Midsummer Night’s Dream, but as I never actually read that one it kind of went over my head.
There were a few things I saw coming, but others that surprised me a little bit. Like Robin himself, the plot seems to be running on no longer term plan at all and just a feeling. It’s not a complaint - as this was a first person POV it made sense that the plot is just as opaque and out-of-the-blue to us as it is to Puck.
Once or twice, I noticed things that could have benefited from an editor - like Robin using the baby princesses name before he could have possible have know it - but those were relatively rare and minor.
CW: Death, Parental Death, Infidelity (not by POV character), Serious Injury (of POV character)
Received the book for free through BookSirens.
November 21, 2023
This is a charming take on what REALLY happened during and after the events of A Midsummer Night's Dream. I'm a big fantasy reader but not really a Shakespeare fan. I'd say Wander the Night was still a fun read. Cobb addresses and quotes from the Shakespearean text without the plot getting bogged down by it. This book stands on its own just fine with topics including familial trauma and love, identity, found family, and casual queer rep (including ace folks!!).
Not even a little bit surprised that Cobb has a MA in English! She clearly loves these Shakespearean characters and puts real love into expanding their stories. Her enthusiasm is contagious!
There were some stretches where I was not a fan of the pacing. Robin spends a LOT of time recovering from various injuries and sleeping. After the first couple times I was feeling a bit tired myself. Thankfully, the plot picks right back up afterwards.
Thank you so much for the chance to read this book for free. I'm leaving this review of my own accord.
Not even a little bit surprised that Cobb has a MA in English! She clearly loves these Shakespearean characters and puts real love into expanding their stories. Her enthusiasm is contagious!
There were some stretches where I was not a fan of the pacing. Robin spends a LOT of time recovering from various injuries and sleeping. After the first couple times I was feeling a bit tired myself. Thankfully, the plot picks right back up afterwards.
Thank you so much for the chance to read this book for free. I'm leaving this review of my own accord.
September 20, 2023
This is a great blending of traditional Celtic fairy lore and a modern style. The contrast between Robin's way of speaking and the formal ways of Oberon's court was very entertaining.
The prologue was incredibly well-written, and I was a little disappointed that the author didn't quite maintain the same high standard. The writing was never bad, but sometimes a little waffly and not as finely honed as the opening.
Still, I was carried along by the story and rooted for all the central characters. A few of the plot points were a bit pat (I'm just going to rush in and hope for the best… Oh look! The best happened!) but overall it was entertaining and came to a satisfying conclusion.
The prologue was incredibly well-written, and I was a little disappointed that the author didn't quite maintain the same high standard. The writing was never bad, but sometimes a little waffly and not as finely honed as the opening.
Still, I was carried along by the story and rooted for all the central characters. A few of the plot points were a bit pat (I'm just going to rush in and hope for the best… Oh look! The best happened!) but overall it was entertaining and came to a satisfying conclusion.
August 1, 2023
Wander the Night follows the story of Robin Goodfellow, long after his Midsummer Night's Dream adventures. It coincides with modern day and another power struggle between the royalty of the faerie world.
I loved seeing all the characters from faerie, and from Shakespeare. I loved Ariel's reimagining for this book. I also loved how the different courts interacted, and all the bonds between the characters were well done.
I did suspect a lot of the twists and predicted how it would end, but it was still a good book.
The only thing I struggled with was the tone and timeframe of the book. It reads like a young adult narrator is writing it, but it's a several hundred year old puck instead. There was a lot of disconnect every time the fae used modern slang or dressed specifically like they were out of shakespeare.
I loved seeing all the characters from faerie, and from Shakespeare. I loved Ariel's reimagining for this book. I also loved how the different courts interacted, and all the bonds between the characters were well done.
I did suspect a lot of the twists and predicted how it would end, but it was still a good book.
The only thing I struggled with was the tone and timeframe of the book. It reads like a young adult narrator is writing it, but it's a several hundred year old puck instead. There was a lot of disconnect every time the fae used modern slang or dressed specifically like they were out of shakespeare.
August 19, 2024
I really enjoyed it! The only reason this is one star short of five is merely personal taste. I get very annoyed with the whole 'royalty who doesn't want the throne ends up fighting for and becoming king and suddenly wants it.' Very specific, I know, but it comes up quite a bit and I really dislike it. Like just abolish the monarchy and figure out a democratic solution since the whole 'next in line' thing is what caused the problems in the first place???
So yeah, simply personal taste. Otherwise, I thoroughly enjoyed this book, sans the ending.
So yeah, simply personal taste. Otherwise, I thoroughly enjoyed this book, sans the ending.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 11, 2023
Old familiar characters? Yes, but in a new way. Pucks tricks, Oberon and Titania's warring... Did you ever ask why, what drove them to doing those things? If you did, then you won't want to pass this book up! It peels back layers that you never knew the Fey could have. You won't want to miss Pucks newest adventure!
April 16, 2025
I enjoy retellings even ones based on classics. Now a Midsummer Nights Dream Shakespeare obviously if you know your classics. I read it once so long ago. I didnt understand much of it but reading this book put it in perspective and i loved it. I love the out take on the classic and making it the authors own story. I would read again and recommend.
November 30, 2023
Really enjoyable read, set in a world that doesn't feel nearly as overtrodden as many other fantasy books. Charming characters with dialog that manages to be quippy without distracting from the main story.
Displaying 1 - 11 of 11 reviews