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The Wicked Lies of Habren Faire
An enchanting romantasy debut about a girl who must strike a dangerous bargain with a prince of fairy in order to find her missing sister, perfect for fans of Margaret Rogerson and Lexi Ryan
For Sabrina Parry, the world of her small, Welsh mining town is cruel and practical. Her main aims in life are to hold onto her job, hold her tongue, and marry off her pretty, but sickly sister Ceridwen to a man rich enough to look after her.
When Ceridwen vanishes into the woods leaving only an iron ring behind, it’s up to Sabrina to find her by venturing into Eu Gwald—fairyland.
Sabrina quickly realizes fairyland is far more dangerous than she ever expected. So when a fae prince who considers himself a scholar of all things human offers her a dangerous deal, Sabrina is forced to accept. The prince is charming, and more interested in Sabrina than she is willing to believe. But as always with fairy bargains, there is a cost.
And if this bargain doesn’t cost Sabrina her life, it will certainly cost her heart.
For Sabrina Parry, the world of her small, Welsh mining town is cruel and practical. Her main aims in life are to hold onto her job, hold her tongue, and marry off her pretty, but sickly sister Ceridwen to a man rich enough to look after her.
When Ceridwen vanishes into the woods leaving only an iron ring behind, it’s up to Sabrina to find her by venturing into Eu Gwald—fairyland.
Sabrina quickly realizes fairyland is far more dangerous than she ever expected. So when a fae prince who considers himself a scholar of all things human offers her a dangerous deal, Sabrina is forced to accept. The prince is charming, and more interested in Sabrina than she is willing to believe. But as always with fairy bargains, there is a cost.
And if this bargain doesn’t cost Sabrina her life, it will certainly cost her heart.
272 pages, Hardcover
First published August 28, 2025
86 people are currently reading
8215 people want to read
About the author
Anna Fiteni
1 book58 followersAnna Fiteni is an author from Cardiff. She studied English and Creative Writing at the University of Warwick, before going on to the University of Oxford to complete a PGCE. When not writing, Anna enjoys travelling, fashion history, and daydreaming about writing.
Her debut YA fantasy novel, The Wicked Lies of Habren Faire, is due out on August 28th 2025 from Electric Monkey in the UK and on September 9th 2025 from Little, Brown Young Readers in the USA.
Her debut YA fantasy novel, The Wicked Lies of Habren Faire, is due out on August 28th 2025 from Electric Monkey in the UK and on September 9th 2025 from Little, Brown Young Readers in the USA.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 212 reviews
November 5, 2025
Mean girls deserve love too, sometimes from mean boys, and sometimes mean girls aren’t actually mean, they’re just a bit misunderstood.
Do you want to get lost in a faerie filled forrest, make a bargain with a handsome fae prince, and go on a quest to find your missing sister? Maybe find yourself along the way? Definitely lie your ass off - because what good is being able to lie if you don’t use it to protect yourself from wicked fae?
The Wicked Lies of Habren Faire is a wickedly fun, fast-paced story with lush prose and an atmospheric world rooted in Welsh folklore and history. I wanted to get lost in Eu Gwald with Sabrina!
Sabrina is prickly, a bit unlovable, and definitely hot tempered. She lies and steals, and might complain about her responsibilities but never fails to take care of the people she loves. At its heart this is a story about sisters with a hint of romance and splash self-discovery. It’s easy to binge and will leave you wanting more
What’s to love…
- Mean girls deserve love
- morally grey MMC (and maybe the FMC is a bit morally grey too)
- he loves her prickly parts
- family forward story
- STANDALONE
- Grade A banter
- rich world built on Welsh history and folklore
- QUEST! (my favorite!)
What might not work for some…
- This is less romantasy and more fantasy with a romantic subplot imho. If you head in with tempered expectations I think you’ll love this one.
5⭐️| IG | TikTok |
Thank you Little Brown & Novl for the gifted book. All opinions are my own.
Do you want to get lost in a faerie filled forrest, make a bargain with a handsome fae prince, and go on a quest to find your missing sister? Maybe find yourself along the way? Definitely lie your ass off - because what good is being able to lie if you don’t use it to protect yourself from wicked fae?
The Wicked Lies of Habren Faire is a wickedly fun, fast-paced story with lush prose and an atmospheric world rooted in Welsh folklore and history. I wanted to get lost in Eu Gwald with Sabrina!
Sabrina is prickly, a bit unlovable, and definitely hot tempered. She lies and steals, and might complain about her responsibilities but never fails to take care of the people she loves. At its heart this is a story about sisters with a hint of romance and splash self-discovery. It’s easy to binge and will leave you wanting more
What’s to love…
- Mean girls deserve love
- morally grey MMC (and maybe the FMC is a bit morally grey too)
- he loves her prickly parts
- family forward story
- STANDALONE
- Grade A banter
- rich world built on Welsh history and folklore
- QUEST! (my favorite!)
What might not work for some…
- This is less romantasy and more fantasy with a romantic subplot imho. If you head in with tempered expectations I think you’ll love this one.
5⭐️| IG | TikTok |
Thank you Little Brown & Novl for the gifted book. All opinions are my own.
August 30, 2025
4.25 ★— If I had a nickel for every story about a human girl with a complicated bond with her sister, a ruthless streak, and a dark-haired trickster fae… well, I’d have two nickels. Which isn’t a lot, but it’s weird that it’s happened twice.
That’s right: this book is absolutely a fit for The Folk of the Air lovers, while still standing firmly on its own and telling a compelling, original story.
The plot centers on Sabrina, whose life has been marked by hardship. At sixteen, she’s working as much as she can, taking care of her sickly older sister, and acting as the main breadwinner of her household. When her sister vanishes one day, there’s no hesitation. Sabrina heads straight into the faerie forest people regularly disappear into.
This book delivers so many of the elements I love and always look for in faerie stories: fae who are truly inhuman, vicious, and tricky, as well as a heroine who isn’t a moral ideal, but instead flawed in deeply human, teenage ways. I especially appreciated how Fiteni wove these traits into Sabrina, letting them influence her journey through the faerie world.
When she meets Neirin, a fae and the story’s male lead, their dynamic becomes interesting immediately. You see his trickster side respond to the darker parts of her. As the two journey through the forest together, their banter and interactions were pure chef’s kiss!
The land of the faerie itself felt like the story’s third major character and the author captured its strangeness and danger so well, giving it an eerie sense of timelessness. I’d also add that the inclusion of the Welsh language and some of its history was beautifully done, too!
Overall, this is a perfect pick for anyone looking for a YA fantasy story filled with layered characters and sharp, intriguing fae, but still compact enough to devour in an afternoon.
That’s right: this book is absolutely a fit for The Folk of the Air lovers, while still standing firmly on its own and telling a compelling, original story.
The plot centers on Sabrina, whose life has been marked by hardship. At sixteen, she’s working as much as she can, taking care of her sickly older sister, and acting as the main breadwinner of her household. When her sister vanishes one day, there’s no hesitation. Sabrina heads straight into the faerie forest people regularly disappear into.
This book delivers so many of the elements I love and always look for in faerie stories: fae who are truly inhuman, vicious, and tricky, as well as a heroine who isn’t a moral ideal, but instead flawed in deeply human, teenage ways. I especially appreciated how Fiteni wove these traits into Sabrina, letting them influence her journey through the faerie world.
When she meets Neirin, a fae and the story’s male lead, their dynamic becomes interesting immediately. You see his trickster side respond to the darker parts of her. As the two journey through the forest together, their banter and interactions were pure chef’s kiss!
The land of the faerie itself felt like the story’s third major character and the author captured its strangeness and danger so well, giving it an eerie sense of timelessness. I’d also add that the inclusion of the Welsh language and some of its history was beautifully done, too!
Overall, this is a perfect pick for anyone looking for a YA fantasy story filled with layered characters and sharp, intriguing fae, but still compact enough to devour in an afternoon.
July 14, 2025
This is for all my The Cruel Prince fans.
I binged this.
It was addictive, funny, spiky, and filled with Welsh history.
In 1842, Habren follows her sister into the Land of the Fair Ones seeking to rescue her by entering into a partnership with a trickster Fae, Nerin, to become the King’s champion.
Imagine what magic smells like to you (we can't all love wisteria and cooking bread) then picture wonders to rival the ocean. Imagine the place where the fairy tales of your childhood took place, when your mother lay beside you in bed and whispered stories in your ear.
You're halfway there.
This is I-hate-you-so-much-I-will-cut-your-finger-off.
Habren is spiky, constantly compared to her soft, beautiful sister. She is the shadow.
Spiteful, jealous, but loyal.
How strange. How lovely.
How awful.
"You used me, I say. "I hate you.”
“I missed you too,” he replies.
Great familiar relationships.
Morally grey epitomised.
History about the sordid Welsh mining past and the English incursion.
Great snappy back and forth.
LGBTQ representation.
Disability representation.
A very satisfying standalone that could expand into a sequel.
Physical arc gifted by Electric Monkey.
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I binged this.
It was addictive, funny, spiky, and filled with Welsh history.
In 1842, Habren follows her sister into the Land of the Fair Ones seeking to rescue her by entering into a partnership with a trickster Fae, Nerin, to become the King’s champion.
Imagine what magic smells like to you (we can't all love wisteria and cooking bread) then picture wonders to rival the ocean. Imagine the place where the fairy tales of your childhood took place, when your mother lay beside you in bed and whispered stories in your ear.
You're halfway there.
This is I-hate-you-so-much-I-will-cut-your-finger-off.
Habren is spiky, constantly compared to her soft, beautiful sister. She is the shadow.
Spiteful, jealous, but loyal.
How strange. How lovely.
How awful.
"You used me, I say. "I hate you.”
“I missed you too,” he replies.
Great familiar relationships.
Morally grey epitomised.
History about the sordid Welsh mining past and the English incursion.
Great snappy back and forth.
LGBTQ representation.
Disability representation.
A very satisfying standalone that could expand into a sequel.
Physical arc gifted by Electric Monkey.
Bookstagram
Tiktok
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September 24, 2025firstly, thank you to the publisher for an arc!
dnf @ 35% — this was heavily reminiscent of the cruel prince, which i also did not enjoy, and unfortunately i just couldn’t immerse myself into this world.
i know this book will find its audience but it’s not me
dnf @ 35% — this was heavily reminiscent of the cruel prince, which i also did not enjoy, and unfortunately i just couldn’t immerse myself into this world.
i know this book will find its audience but it’s not me
September 13, 2025
Carden and Jude have met their match with this one. Such fun banter and an epic quest through the faelands, all inspired by Welsh mythology. This was so fun! 250 pages and v immersive.
did-not-finish
September 25, 2025dnf
I wanted so desperately to like this one. The cover and the premise were right along my alley. But, this just fell flat. The book was just sooooo slow. I just couldn't get into it. Sabrina was just so irritating, and while others enjoyed it-- I just did not like her immature attitude. And none of the other characters were any better. This is could definitely be a "right book, wrong time" situation, so there is a chance I would pick up this book again and attempt to finish it.
*a special thanks to netgalley and the publisher for giving me this book early in exchange for a honest review. all opinions are my own.*
I wanted so desperately to like this one. The cover and the premise were right along my alley. But, this just fell flat. The book was just sooooo slow. I just couldn't get into it. Sabrina was just so irritating, and while others enjoyed it-- I just did not like her immature attitude. And none of the other characters were any better. This is could definitely be a "right book, wrong time" situation, so there is a chance I would pick up this book again and attempt to finish it.
*a special thanks to netgalley and the publisher for giving me this book early in exchange for a honest review. all opinions are my own.*
August 15, 2025
This may be the craziest thing I’ve said about a book but I feel this book WITHIN me.
Cymru, 1842. We follow Sabrina, a sharp tongued girl who follows her older sister, Ceridwen into Eu Gwlad in an attempt to save her. Sabrina quickly realises that the stories her dad shared about Tylwyth Teg, aren’t just fairytales after all…
Sabrina is forced take on a dangerous mission, break her own heart and make sacrifices to not only save her sister, but also to save Eu Gwlad from a strange sickness that is killing the Teg.
I LOVED this book in every physically way possible. Am I bias because I am also a Welsh woman who feels the internal female rage that Sabrina feels? Possibly, but that doesn’t change how amazing this book was. This is a beautiful and incredible debut from Anna Fiteni and I am truly honoured I was given the chance to read it.
I will acknowledge is that this is being marketed as a romantasy which I personally disagree with, this is a story of self discovery, sacrifice and sisterhood with a lovely slice of romance on the side. 🍰
This book was able to teach me things about my heritage that no school ever did. It brings attention to our harrowing history, the exploitation but also the beauty of our language and heritage. It felt like an encyclopedia for Tylwyth Teg which I loved too!
Going back to how I started this review, I do truly mean it. Whilst this is a fantasy book, I am reading about my heritage, my family’s story and everyone who came before me.
I think this book will stay with me for a very long time.
Diolch Electric Monkey for gifting me an arc✨
Cymru, 1842. We follow Sabrina, a sharp tongued girl who follows her older sister, Ceridwen into Eu Gwlad in an attempt to save her. Sabrina quickly realises that the stories her dad shared about Tylwyth Teg, aren’t just fairytales after all…
Sabrina is forced take on a dangerous mission, break her own heart and make sacrifices to not only save her sister, but also to save Eu Gwlad from a strange sickness that is killing the Teg.
I LOVED this book in every physically way possible. Am I bias because I am also a Welsh woman who feels the internal female rage that Sabrina feels? Possibly, but that doesn’t change how amazing this book was. This is a beautiful and incredible debut from Anna Fiteni and I am truly honoured I was given the chance to read it.
I will acknowledge is that this is being marketed as a romantasy which I personally disagree with, this is a story of self discovery, sacrifice and sisterhood with a lovely slice of romance on the side. 🍰
This book was able to teach me things about my heritage that no school ever did. It brings attention to our harrowing history, the exploitation but also the beauty of our language and heritage. It felt like an encyclopedia for Tylwyth Teg which I loved too!
Going back to how I started this review, I do truly mean it. Whilst this is a fantasy book, I am reading about my heritage, my family’s story and everyone who came before me.
I think this book will stay with me for a very long time.
Diolch Electric Monkey for gifting me an arc✨
June 28, 2025
This story follows Sabrina as she goes into the woods into fairyland in search of her sister Ceridwen after promising her father she would take care of her family after he is imprisoned.
Sabrina finds out the woods are a lot more dangerous than they seem. The fairy world is starting to decay and she eventually teams up with Neirin a fairy prince, as she makes a deal for her freedom in exchange for help finding her sister. She finds out her sister is trying to become the King’s Champion by getting rid of the decay on her own in exchange for immortality.
The story is very descriptive and brings you right into the unique world and is very atmospheric. There is Welsh folklore interwoven into the story and the fae are of the more traditional variety (tricksters).
There is strong ties of family and sisterly love. The romance between Sabrina and Neirin is there but it is not the forefront of the story. There is also LGBTQ representation with Ceridwen and her mermaid girlfriend.
I liked the ending with the idea of Gran being reunited with someone from her past, and I enjoyed Sabrina’s decision at the end.
Overall this was a very fun and quick read, and I would recommend to any readers who love and enjoy YA fantasy with a bit of romance splashed in and strong themes of familial and sisterly love.
Thank you to Little, Brown Books for Young Readers for this ARC. All opinions are my own.
Sabrina finds out the woods are a lot more dangerous than they seem. The fairy world is starting to decay and she eventually teams up with Neirin a fairy prince, as she makes a deal for her freedom in exchange for help finding her sister. She finds out her sister is trying to become the King’s Champion by getting rid of the decay on her own in exchange for immortality.
The story is very descriptive and brings you right into the unique world and is very atmospheric. There is Welsh folklore interwoven into the story and the fae are of the more traditional variety (tricksters).
There is strong ties of family and sisterly love. The romance between Sabrina and Neirin is there but it is not the forefront of the story. There is also LGBTQ representation with Ceridwen and her mermaid girlfriend.
I liked the ending with the idea of Gran being reunited with someone from her past, and I enjoyed Sabrina’s decision at the end.
Overall this was a very fun and quick read, and I would recommend to any readers who love and enjoy YA fantasy with a bit of romance splashed in and strong themes of familial and sisterly love.
Thank you to Little, Brown Books for Young Readers for this ARC. All opinions are my own.
August 13, 2025
3 Stars
A quick, fun and magical read!
The Wicked Lies of Habren Faire is based in 1842 in a little village in Wales. It is about two sisters, Sabrina and Ceridwen who are in difficult circumstances. Their Mother has died and Ceridwen is ill from that same illness, plus their Father has been sentenced to 10 years in Australia. They live with their Grandmother and Sabrina is the only one able to work. Then Ceridwen goes missing, walking herself into the forest and everything changes...
This story is based around a Fae world in some woods in Wales. There is a ton of Welsh mythology which I enjoyed and the Welsh history and background was really well researched and written.
The Fae include tons of different species which made for a fun read and I enjoyed hearing about all the different mythological creatures as well. The worldbuilding was good, if a little basic, but hooked me into the story.
For me, the actual story is what let the book down. I found it all took place and went by too easily, the challenges and mission were faced and beaten quickly and just not enough tension. So for me, that really let down the book and so I could only give it 3 stars.
The characters were interesting, but again I felt them lacking in personality and I wanted more from their journeys and character arcs. Sabrina, the lead character was brave and had a sharp tongue. She was the character with the most depth but was still missing some personality.
The banter between Sabrina and a certain Fae called Neirin gave a little comic relief. However I sadly didn't find the romance believable and from the covers, I thought there would have been more focus on the romance than there is. I also sadly found Neirin a little boring which wasn't ideal.
The writing was good and held my attention, plus the Welsh aspects were the best I've read in a Fantasy which made it more unique.
Although this was a good read and I liked many aspects, sadly it didn't live up to my hopes. I would definitely read books by this author again though!
Please note that I was given this book in exchange for an honest review.
A quick, fun and magical read!
The Wicked Lies of Habren Faire is based in 1842 in a little village in Wales. It is about two sisters, Sabrina and Ceridwen who are in difficult circumstances. Their Mother has died and Ceridwen is ill from that same illness, plus their Father has been sentenced to 10 years in Australia. They live with their Grandmother and Sabrina is the only one able to work. Then Ceridwen goes missing, walking herself into the forest and everything changes...
This story is based around a Fae world in some woods in Wales. There is a ton of Welsh mythology which I enjoyed and the Welsh history and background was really well researched and written.
The Fae include tons of different species which made for a fun read and I enjoyed hearing about all the different mythological creatures as well. The worldbuilding was good, if a little basic, but hooked me into the story.
For me, the actual story is what let the book down. I found it all took place and went by too easily, the challenges and mission were faced and beaten quickly and just not enough tension. So for me, that really let down the book and so I could only give it 3 stars.
The characters were interesting, but again I felt them lacking in personality and I wanted more from their journeys and character arcs. Sabrina, the lead character was brave and had a sharp tongue. She was the character with the most depth but was still missing some personality.
The banter between Sabrina and a certain Fae called Neirin gave a little comic relief. However I sadly didn't find the romance believable and from the covers, I thought there would have been more focus on the romance than there is. I also sadly found Neirin a little boring which wasn't ideal.
The writing was good and held my attention, plus the Welsh aspects were the best I've read in a Fantasy which made it more unique.
Although this was a good read and I liked many aspects, sadly it didn't live up to my hopes. I would definitely read books by this author again though!
Please note that I was given this book in exchange for an honest review.
August 19, 2025
This a beautifully written stroy that has properly burrowed under my skin. From the start, I was behind Sabrina, someone who is both strong willed and highly relatable for me. Her sense of wanderlust is endearing, and I couldn't help but feel for her as she grapples with living in her sister's shadow. The feeling of being trapped by familial obligations, even when her love for her family is so clear, is something many can empathise with. It’s a classic conflict: duty versus personal happiness. Watching her journey, and seeing her finally claim agency for herself, was genuinely touching. Fiteni, created a wonderful, messy, and realistic exploration of what is it to come of age. It’s not a clean, neat journey, and this book embraces all the grey areas.
The relationship between Sabrina and Neirin is great. Their constant bickering is absolutely adorable and had me grinning from ear to ear. It’s one of those classic 'will they, won't they' dynamics that's so well executed it doesn't feel cliché. The "just kiss" meme from Adventure Time was basically playing on a loop in my head every time they were together.
Fiteni's social and political commentary woven throughout the story is excellent. The line, "We're all being used by a big house somewhere," really stuck with me. It’s a powerful statement that hints at the larger themes of control and exploitation, in all it's guises. The way the story delves into the history of Wales and how it affects the characters journey is flawless. It feels like more than just a backdrop; it’s an integral part of the narrative. This book is a poignant ode, a memorial, and a heartfelt love letter to Welsh history and culture. I will absolutely be adding Fiteni to my auto buy list.
The relationship between Sabrina and Neirin is great. Their constant bickering is absolutely adorable and had me grinning from ear to ear. It’s one of those classic 'will they, won't they' dynamics that's so well executed it doesn't feel cliché. The "just kiss" meme from Adventure Time was basically playing on a loop in my head every time they were together.
Fiteni's social and political commentary woven throughout the story is excellent. The line, "We're all being used by a big house somewhere," really stuck with me. It’s a powerful statement that hints at the larger themes of control and exploitation, in all it's guises. The way the story delves into the history of Wales and how it affects the characters journey is flawless. It feels like more than just a backdrop; it’s an integral part of the narrative. This book is a poignant ode, a memorial, and a heartfelt love letter to Welsh history and culture. I will absolutely be adding Fiteni to my auto buy list.
October 9, 2025
Unfortunately, these were not my vibes. However, the vibes were in fact strong and if a magical, soft yet eery adventure sounds like your thing; go for it. I can see this being in a lot of people's favorites of the year
August 10, 2025
The Wicked Lies of Habren Faire is a beautifully written YA fantasy that feels like a dark fairytale. Perfect for fans of The Cruel Prince trilogy or readers with an interest in Welsh mythology.
It took me a while to feel fully immersed in the world, but once it settled, I appreciated the richness of the folklore and the slightly eerie tone that ran throughout. The fae are dangerous and manipulative, and the magic feels old and unknowable in a way that really suits the story and gives it a timeless quality. The atmosphere is definitely one of the book’s strongest elements!
Sabrina Parry is a compelling heroine. She’s flawed and not always likeable, but she’s brave, determined, and driven by love for her sister. (Heavily reminding me of Jude from The FOTA books) I really liked how her relationship with Neirin developed slowly and subtly. It made it feel like the romance is more of a thread than a focus, which I appreciated. It never overshadows Sabrina’s personal journey.
There’s also some gentle LGBTQ+ representation woven into the story that felt natural and thoughtfully done! I just wish the ending had been a little more fleshed out. It felt a little rushed, and it left a few things unresolved that I was curious about. I also wanted more clarity around certain characters.
Overall, this was a beautifully written and atmospheric debut I recommend to fans of The Cruel Prince books.
It didn’t fully land for me but still had a lot to admire. A solid 3.5-star read!
It took me a while to feel fully immersed in the world, but once it settled, I appreciated the richness of the folklore and the slightly eerie tone that ran throughout. The fae are dangerous and manipulative, and the magic feels old and unknowable in a way that really suits the story and gives it a timeless quality. The atmosphere is definitely one of the book’s strongest elements!
Sabrina Parry is a compelling heroine. She’s flawed and not always likeable, but she’s brave, determined, and driven by love for her sister. (Heavily reminding me of Jude from The FOTA books) I really liked how her relationship with Neirin developed slowly and subtly. It made it feel like the romance is more of a thread than a focus, which I appreciated. It never overshadows Sabrina’s personal journey.
There’s also some gentle LGBTQ+ representation woven into the story that felt natural and thoughtfully done! I just wish the ending had been a little more fleshed out. It felt a little rushed, and it left a few things unresolved that I was curious about. I also wanted more clarity around certain characters.
Overall, this was a beautifully written and atmospheric debut I recommend to fans of The Cruel Prince books.
It didn’t fully land for me but still had a lot to admire. A solid 3.5-star read!
November 30, 2025
I really enjoyed this considering I didn’t know what to expect when I started. I loved all the Welsh language, colloquialism and mythology!! I also partly listened to the audio book as well which was great for the pronunciation.
* changing to a 5 star read after meeting Anna. It was so refreshing to hear her story and behind the book ✨
* changing to a 5 star read after meeting Anna. It was so refreshing to hear her story and behind the book ✨
September 22, 2025
3.25 ⭐️
October 3, 2025
2.5 ⭐️
This was okay. I liked the creative Welsh setting/folklore but the story was way too short and rushed. No character development, nothing was fleshed out, plot holes galore. And you can ignore any review that says it’s Cruel Prince vibes, besides a dark haired fairy boy and 2 sisters there are no similarities at all 🤷🏻♀️
This was okay. I liked the creative Welsh setting/folklore but the story was way too short and rushed. No character development, nothing was fleshed out, plot holes galore. And you can ignore any review that says it’s Cruel Prince vibes, besides a dark haired fairy boy and 2 sisters there are no similarities at all 🤷🏻♀️
July 25, 2025
It’s giving Alice in Wonderland but with a Welsh Mythology twist!! This book was well written as well as researched appropriately. Sabrina was such a strong lead and really held the book together from start to finish!
April 29, 2025
If you read one book in 2025, let it be this one. Sabrina Parry, you have my whole heart and I love you and all your spiteful ways (Neirin you have may have one sliver of my heart but absolutely no more)
In the interest of transparency, I should say that the author is my best friend, and I have been lucky enough to read this book in all its stages. However, even if you take the personal connection out of it, I am left with a book that had me utterly captivated from the very first sentence. Anna has taken ideas that have become commonplace in fantasty (a romance with a fae prince, an epic quest, and a stubborn heroine to name but a few) and completely turned them on their head, breathed new life into them, and imbued them with a sense of magic that I truly think few writers have been able to capture. The writing is lush and beautiful, and there are several quotes that I would get tattooed if I was brave enough and not terrified of needles. The craftsmanship is truly outstanding, and I could happily spend many more days leafing through pages on pages of her writing.
If the writing won't capture your heart, the characters will. Sabrina is a character who bulldozed her way into my heart - she is all the things you think a fantasy heroine wouldn't be, and so much more. She is spiteful, she lies, she cheats, she irritates, she actively tries to ruin people's lives, and yet you love her for it. She sees the story laid out for her and actively chooses to face the other way, giving the original path the finger and probably punching whoever told her to go there in the first place. And yet, she cares. She cares and she loves and she knocks people out and cuts off their fingers and I love her. Neirin too managed to take up far too much of my brain space reading this - he is a stereotypical fairy in a way I wish we saw more in modern fantasy - vain, self-absorbed, obsessed with humanity and glamour, and somehow both supremely clever and supremely dumb. There are other characters too I adore, but I suppose I should let people discover them for themselves. One thing they all have in common is they all feel so real that they could be sat beside me telling their story rather than buried within the page.
And yet, despite Sabrina's spite and Neirin's annoyingness, this is a book filled with love in the best possible way - it's filled with a love for family, for stories, for Wales, for history. Sabrina's love for her sister is the beating core of this novel, and I defy those of you with sisters to finish this novel without wanting to go and find your own and envelop them in a hug. There is a scene in chapter 28 specifically that, the first time I read it, had me openly weeping - I had to put the book down and take several minutes to calm down, it just hits that hard. It strikes that beautiful balance between gripping fantasy, swoon-worthy romance and beautiful, heartwrenching moments that feel utterly human in a world of mythical creatures, and leaves you reaching for more even after the last page.
It would have been easy to write another romantasy that hits all your classic tropes, but instead, Anna has written a story that feels transformative and somehow utterly unique. She has done so with a skill and talent that makes this novel feel like the product of a veteran author, rather than a debut. Poetic, atmospheric and utterly enchanting, this is one of my favourite books not just of 2025, but of all time.
In the interest of transparency, I should say that the author is my best friend, and I have been lucky enough to read this book in all its stages. However, even if you take the personal connection out of it, I am left with a book that had me utterly captivated from the very first sentence. Anna has taken ideas that have become commonplace in fantasty (a romance with a fae prince, an epic quest, and a stubborn heroine to name but a few) and completely turned them on their head, breathed new life into them, and imbued them with a sense of magic that I truly think few writers have been able to capture. The writing is lush and beautiful, and there are several quotes that I would get tattooed if I was brave enough and not terrified of needles. The craftsmanship is truly outstanding, and I could happily spend many more days leafing through pages on pages of her writing.
If the writing won't capture your heart, the characters will. Sabrina is a character who bulldozed her way into my heart - she is all the things you think a fantasy heroine wouldn't be, and so much more. She is spiteful, she lies, she cheats, she irritates, she actively tries to ruin people's lives, and yet you love her for it. She sees the story laid out for her and actively chooses to face the other way, giving the original path the finger and probably punching whoever told her to go there in the first place. And yet, she cares. She cares and she loves and she knocks people out and cuts off their fingers and I love her. Neirin too managed to take up far too much of my brain space reading this - he is a stereotypical fairy in a way I wish we saw more in modern fantasy - vain, self-absorbed, obsessed with humanity and glamour, and somehow both supremely clever and supremely dumb. There are other characters too I adore, but I suppose I should let people discover them for themselves. One thing they all have in common is they all feel so real that they could be sat beside me telling their story rather than buried within the page.
And yet, despite Sabrina's spite and Neirin's annoyingness, this is a book filled with love in the best possible way - it's filled with a love for family, for stories, for Wales, for history. Sabrina's love for her sister is the beating core of this novel, and I defy those of you with sisters to finish this novel without wanting to go and find your own and envelop them in a hug. There is a scene in chapter 28 specifically that, the first time I read it, had me openly weeping - I had to put the book down and take several minutes to calm down, it just hits that hard. It strikes that beautiful balance between gripping fantasy, swoon-worthy romance and beautiful, heartwrenching moments that feel utterly human in a world of mythical creatures, and leaves you reaching for more even after the last page.
It would have been easy to write another romantasy that hits all your classic tropes, but instead, Anna has written a story that feels transformative and somehow utterly unique. She has done so with a skill and talent that makes this novel feel like the product of a veteran author, rather than a debut. Poetic, atmospheric and utterly enchanting, this is one of my favourite books not just of 2025, but of all time.
September 25, 2025
Thanks to Electric Monkey for providing me with a proof in exchange for an honest review.
I am in love with this world and these characters. I'm so sad that this book had to end and yet it finished at the perfect moment.
The combination of classic Fae folklore, a new adventure and subtle political commentary was absolute perfection.
This is a book about the Teg, who are dangerous. You don't tell them your name or get involved in their games. This is the type of Fae story I love - one bound up in the stories, myths and legends that I have always been obsessed with.
It's also a story about Wales and the way the country and it's people were used badly. The mining stories were absolutely heartbreaking but told so well.
I absolutely adored the characters and really enjoyed Sabrina's/Hebrew's development. She even managed to surprise me at the end, which doesn't happen a whole lot.
For a book that's fewer than 300 pages, a lot is included but it's all explored beautifully. I would happily read about Sabrina's next adventure.
I am in love with this world and these characters. I'm so sad that this book had to end and yet it finished at the perfect moment.
The combination of classic Fae folklore, a new adventure and subtle political commentary was absolute perfection.
This is a book about the Teg, who are dangerous. You don't tell them your name or get involved in their games. This is the type of Fae story I love - one bound up in the stories, myths and legends that I have always been obsessed with.
It's also a story about Wales and the way the country and it's people were used badly. The mining stories were absolutely heartbreaking but told so well.
I absolutely adored the characters and really enjoyed Sabrina's/Hebrew's development. She even managed to surprise me at the end, which doesn't happen a whole lot.
For a book that's fewer than 300 pages, a lot is included but it's all explored beautifully. I would happily read about Sabrina's next adventure.
September 16, 2025
I am totally ok with crying on a train as I finish this. Welsh mythology combined with Welsh mining history. Class divides. Yearning. A supremely wonderful ending that was so very fitting for Sabrina. Ugh. Yes. Give me books that make me feel like this all the time. (But maybe not ALL the time because I’m not sure I could handle it). Very excited for what comes next from Fiteni.
August 8, 2025
The Wicked Lies of Habren Faire is the type of book that reminds me just why I love fantasy and in particular YA fantasy, it was rich in Welsh folklore and is filled from start to finish with whimsical creatures and dark characters and the one thing I loved the most was it had the traditional faerie lore - the lore where the creatures are cruel and wicked and frightening, once I started I completely devoured it.
The writing is so beautiful and it just captures your attention from the very first line, the growing up that the characters go through is amazing.The slow burn romance was perfection and so beautifully written and as for the ending it was bittersweet and the perfect conclusion especially for a book under 400 pages it was fast paced and so very well developed where the plot and characters were concerned.
I highly recommend this book to anyone who is looking for a fast paced fantasy rich in the more traditional faerie lore and who is looking for those fantasies of dark and dangerous fairytales and most of all the emotional stories about family, love and loss.
Thank you so much to Publisher and NetGalley for the chance to read and review this book before publication, these are my honest thoughts and opinions.
The writing is so beautiful and it just captures your attention from the very first line, the growing up that the characters go through is amazing.The slow burn romance was perfection and so beautifully written and as for the ending it was bittersweet and the perfect conclusion especially for a book under 400 pages it was fast paced and so very well developed where the plot and characters were concerned.
I highly recommend this book to anyone who is looking for a fast paced fantasy rich in the more traditional faerie lore and who is looking for those fantasies of dark and dangerous fairytales and most of all the emotional stories about family, love and loss.
Thank you so much to Publisher and NetGalley for the chance to read and review this book before publication, these are my honest thoughts and opinions.
October 3, 2025
Sabrina Parry has led a tough life, worse so now that her father has been imprisoned. She's the only person in her family who can work and has no shot at finding a husband. So instead, she's supposed to focus on helping her sister get married, but everything goes awry when she vanishes. To rescue her sibling, Sabrina will have to accept a dangerous partnership an annoying fairy prince who flips her world upside-down.
🧚Upper Young Adult Fiction
🦋Fantasy Romance
🧚Historical Wales, 1842
🦋Dislike to Lovers
🧚Human x Fairy Prince
🦋Grief
'The Wicked Lies of Habren Faire' might be of interest to anyone who loves fairies or Welsh mythology. Sabrina’s adventure takes her through a beautiful and eerie mythological world. She’s a storyteller, who occasionally struggles with out-of-control anger that turns into big mistakes. Her bickering with her love interest was easily one of the best parts of this book. We’re told that she’s a ‘liar’ but that didn't seem to have much relevance to her story, nor did it result in any lessons learned.
The setting and the characters were largely left unexplored or kept at surface level. It was mostly structured as a quest where Sabrina moved from place to place, searching for her sister. All in all, this book had a lot of potential, but it also wasn't very romantic, and it didn't keep my interest.
🧚Upper Young Adult Fiction
🦋Fantasy Romance
🧚Historical Wales, 1842
🦋Dislike to Lovers
🧚Human x Fairy Prince
🦋Grief
'The Wicked Lies of Habren Faire' might be of interest to anyone who loves fairies or Welsh mythology. Sabrina’s adventure takes her through a beautiful and eerie mythological world. She’s a storyteller, who occasionally struggles with out-of-control anger that turns into big mistakes. Her bickering with her love interest was easily one of the best parts of this book. We’re told that she’s a ‘liar’ but that didn't seem to have much relevance to her story, nor did it result in any lessons learned.
The setting and the characters were largely left unexplored or kept at surface level. It was mostly structured as a quest where Sabrina moved from place to place, searching for her sister. All in all, this book had a lot of potential, but it also wasn't very romantic, and it didn't keep my interest.
September 16, 2025
(3.25) e-ARC provided by NetGalley. This in no way changes my opinion.
a quick little romp through the woods with fairy, THE WICKED LIES OF HABREN FAIRE is brimming with Welsh mythology, familial bonds, and magic.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book. I loved how immersive the book is, spilling out Welsh pride on every page. Welsh mythology, language, and its subjugation by the English is crucial to the plot, something that I haven’t seen in many “fae” literature. Fiteni does a wonderful job at creating a vivid atmosphere, both of Wales and Eu Gwald perfectly balancing the mystical, beautiful, and strange with readable prose.
Our main character, Sabrina, takes the limelight, the perfect heroine despite her flaws. I loved how angry she was, how irrational her actions often seemed. Fiteni perfectly expresses her complexities, and I especially enjoyed how torn she was between loving her sister, taking care of her family, and her own independence.
I didn’t care much for the other characters, however. The love interest, Neiren, is charming at times, but feels otherwise bland. I think we spend too little time with him to truly get to know him. Similarly, Sabrina’s sister Ceridwen is also fairly distant from the main character. While the two have some time to interact, and Sabrina certainly reminisces a lot, I was left unsure about her, feeling like she was simply someone in the background.
The plot, likewise, is predictable. The action moves quite quickly, which means there isn’t much room for development. The main quest is supposed to be impossible, which is why I take issue with the fact that Sabrina completes it as quickly as she does, with little scars to show for it.
Despite this, I look forward to Fiteni’s future instalments, which I have no doubt will be as enjoyable as this one.
a quick little romp through the woods with fairy, THE WICKED LIES OF HABREN FAIRE is brimming with Welsh mythology, familial bonds, and magic.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book. I loved how immersive the book is, spilling out Welsh pride on every page. Welsh mythology, language, and its subjugation by the English is crucial to the plot, something that I haven’t seen in many “fae” literature. Fiteni does a wonderful job at creating a vivid atmosphere, both of Wales and Eu Gwald perfectly balancing the mystical, beautiful, and strange with readable prose.
Our main character, Sabrina, takes the limelight, the perfect heroine despite her flaws. I loved how angry she was, how irrational her actions often seemed. Fiteni perfectly expresses her complexities, and I especially enjoyed how torn she was between loving her sister, taking care of her family, and her own independence.
I didn’t care much for the other characters, however. The love interest, Neiren, is charming at times, but feels otherwise bland. I think we spend too little time with him to truly get to know him. Similarly, Sabrina’s sister Ceridwen is also fairly distant from the main character. While the two have some time to interact, and Sabrina certainly reminisces a lot, I was left unsure about her, feeling like she was simply someone in the background.
The plot, likewise, is predictable. The action moves quite quickly, which means there isn’t much room for development. The main quest is supposed to be impossible, which is why I take issue with the fact that Sabrina completes it as quickly as she does, with little scars to show for it.
Despite this, I look forward to Fiteni’s future instalments, which I have no doubt will be as enjoyable as this one.
September 30, 2025
3.25⭐
I had mixed feelings about this one. The Welsh mythology was a refreshing touch, and I appreciated that Sabrina was a morally grey protagonist rather than a typical damsel.
But the story takes place over just a week, and many of the challenges felt rushed. It also took me a while to get into, the pacing was slow at first, and the romance between Sabrina and Neirin lacked depth. I wanted more development, both emotionally and plot-wise.
You'll enjoy this book if you love strong familial bonds between sisters, historical fantasy as it's set in 1842, and rich folklore. Just don’t go in expecting a romance-driven story, this one leans more into adventure and internal character struggle.
I had mixed feelings about this one. The Welsh mythology was a refreshing touch, and I appreciated that Sabrina was a morally grey protagonist rather than a typical damsel.
But the story takes place over just a week, and many of the challenges felt rushed. It also took me a while to get into, the pacing was slow at first, and the romance between Sabrina and Neirin lacked depth. I wanted more development, both emotionally and plot-wise.
You'll enjoy this book if you love strong familial bonds between sisters, historical fantasy as it's set in 1842, and rich folklore. Just don’t go in expecting a romance-driven story, this one leans more into adventure and internal character struggle.
October 18, 2025
I give it 4 stars ⭐️ cause I want to read more of this author since this was her debut! Loved her writing and I think there’s potential for a fantasy series , hope we’re gonna hear from her soon :) this standalone is a whimsical fantasy story with banter and it’s more plot driven . I enjoyed the read a lot 🙂🥰🙃
July 15, 2025
Okay, wow. This book completely consumed me.
What starts as an emotional story about two sisters living in a harsh Welsh mining village quickly spirals into something dark, magical, and haunting. Sabrina is doing everything she can to keep her fragile family afloat. Her father’s in prison and her sister Ceridwen is gravely ill, and then Ceridwen disappears. Ceridwen’s disappearance propels the story; however, Sabrina’s quest is more than a rescue mission. It becomes a journey of unraveling the truth about her family and finding her own strength.
Sabrina is a fascinating, complex protagonist; she’s mysterious, sharp-tongued, and impossibly layered. She’s not your typical chosen one or perfect heroine but she was so refreshing to read and I was rooting for her, even when I wasn’t totally sure I should! Ceridwen, too, was a standout. Even though she spends much of the story missing, her presence lingers in every decision.
And then there’s Neirin. Oh, Neirin. The fae prince is charming, unpredictable, and just the right amount of dangerous. The tension between him and Sabrina is chef’s kiss. It’s not rushed or cliché, it’s just full of longing, mistrust, and real emotional stakes.
The book never drags. Every chapter pushes the plot forward, and the writing flows so naturally, with just the right amount of lyrical flair to make certain lines hit hard without being over the top.
Anna Fiteni has built a world that feels both haunting and beautiful at the same time. There's a constant tension between beauty and horror that keeps the atmosphere rich and unsettling. But what truly impressed me was how each relationship drove the plot. The sisterly bond, the romantic tension, the betrayals and reconciliations all felt earned.
Anna Fiteni is a voice to watch in fantasy. I’ll be first in line for whatever she writes next.
What starts as an emotional story about two sisters living in a harsh Welsh mining village quickly spirals into something dark, magical, and haunting. Sabrina is doing everything she can to keep her fragile family afloat. Her father’s in prison and her sister Ceridwen is gravely ill, and then Ceridwen disappears. Ceridwen’s disappearance propels the story; however, Sabrina’s quest is more than a rescue mission. It becomes a journey of unraveling the truth about her family and finding her own strength.
Sabrina is a fascinating, complex protagonist; she’s mysterious, sharp-tongued, and impossibly layered. She’s not your typical chosen one or perfect heroine but she was so refreshing to read and I was rooting for her, even when I wasn’t totally sure I should! Ceridwen, too, was a standout. Even though she spends much of the story missing, her presence lingers in every decision.
And then there’s Neirin. Oh, Neirin. The fae prince is charming, unpredictable, and just the right amount of dangerous. The tension between him and Sabrina is chef’s kiss. It’s not rushed or cliché, it’s just full of longing, mistrust, and real emotional stakes.
The book never drags. Every chapter pushes the plot forward, and the writing flows so naturally, with just the right amount of lyrical flair to make certain lines hit hard without being over the top.
Anna Fiteni has built a world that feels both haunting and beautiful at the same time. There's a constant tension between beauty and horror that keeps the atmosphere rich and unsettling. But what truly impressed me was how each relationship drove the plot. The sisterly bond, the romantic tension, the betrayals and reconciliations all felt earned.
Anna Fiteni is a voice to watch in fantasy. I’ll be first in line for whatever she writes next.
December 1, 2025
“I deserve to know what the world has to offer me. It might be terrible and lonely, but it's mine to discover. Just as the person I will become is mine to make.”
3.75⭐️
i was honestly so surprised by this book!!💖 what really hooked me emotionally was the fmc sabrina’s character.
i really like how she’s so strong minded and so determined to find her sister that i couldn’t help rooting for her the whole way through 🫶
and as the story went on, i found myself getting more and more attached to her personal growth 🥹 i was very invested in her jouney of slowly becoming more herself throughout the quest that she’s on (which is rescuing her sister who disappeared in the magical faerie forest)! the character development and character journey is done very well 🥰💕
the mmc neirin (who is a fairy) and the fae world also gave me a lot of feelings🧚 the fae’s fickleness actually added to the emotional texture for me because i never really knew what to expect, and that kept me engaged 🫶 i really like neirin as a character as well, his actions are very consistent and true to his character (as a fickle-minded fae), but still has nice growth and change and development throughout the story💫
the romance is more of a subplot rather than a main element of the story, however whenever the romance did show up, i felt myself perk up and lean in because those moments were nice and interesting ✨
moreover, this book is also quite funny in a lot of unexpected parts, which i really enjoyed 🫶🥰
overall, this book gave me a really solid reading experience. not what i thought i was getting into (i was expecting more of a faerie romantasy😂), but still so satisfying in its own way 💌
the best way to describe my feelings of reading this book is it felt grounding, reflective, a little magical, and honestly pretty moving at times ✨🌿
a strong debut that left me thinking and feeling more than i expected 🥹
3.75⭐️
i was honestly so surprised by this book!!💖 what really hooked me emotionally was the fmc sabrina’s character.
i really like how she’s so strong minded and so determined to find her sister that i couldn’t help rooting for her the whole way through 🫶
and as the story went on, i found myself getting more and more attached to her personal growth 🥹 i was very invested in her jouney of slowly becoming more herself throughout the quest that she’s on (which is rescuing her sister who disappeared in the magical faerie forest)! the character development and character journey is done very well 🥰💕
the mmc neirin (who is a fairy) and the fae world also gave me a lot of feelings🧚 the fae’s fickleness actually added to the emotional texture for me because i never really knew what to expect, and that kept me engaged 🫶 i really like neirin as a character as well, his actions are very consistent and true to his character (as a fickle-minded fae), but still has nice growth and change and development throughout the story💫
the romance is more of a subplot rather than a main element of the story, however whenever the romance did show up, i felt myself perk up and lean in because those moments were nice and interesting ✨
moreover, this book is also quite funny in a lot of unexpected parts, which i really enjoyed 🫶🥰
overall, this book gave me a really solid reading experience. not what i thought i was getting into (i was expecting more of a faerie romantasy😂), but still so satisfying in its own way 💌
the best way to describe my feelings of reading this book is it felt grounding, reflective, a little magical, and honestly pretty moving at times ✨🌿
a strong debut that left me thinking and feeling more than i expected 🥹
November 8, 2025
Time. The fickle, painful thing that is Time. It is the thing that (I think) makes the fae world so interesting. The Wicked Lies of Habren Faire plays upon it beautifully.
The story begins in 1842 in Wales as our main character, Sabrina Parry's father is being sentenced for a riot he instigated fighting the rising taxes in Wales. Her father is found guilty and Sabrina is left to care for her Grandmother and sickly, but beautiful, sister Ceridwen. Upon waking the next day Sabrina finds her sister missing from her bed and on her search for Ceridwen discovers that all the fairy stories she loved are all true.
There's so much depth to this book, it makes me sad that it will mostly be marketed as a romantasy. Sure, there is romance here but there is also so much more. Sabrina's character arc is one of my favourites I've read in a long time. Usually I hate reading a bristly main character because authors rarely know how the develop them, but in this book Sabrina's arc is very satisfying.
Moving prose, cultural, historical and with commentaries on classism, sexuality, the topics mentioned above and more. I left this book learning some important things about Wales and wanting to research more, which is always a gift. Pretty much all of the historical events in this books are based on real things that happened on Wales. The riots at the beginning of the book were based on the Rebecca Riots of 1843, there are other events mentioned in the book also based on real events. However, I won't mention them here because I don't want to spoil moments in the book.
An absolutely stunning debut, I can't wait to read everything that Anna Fiteni does.
If you liked the vibes of Cruel Prince, Spiderwick, Once Upon a Broken Heart, Divine Rivals then I would highly recommend you this book.
The story begins in 1842 in Wales as our main character, Sabrina Parry's father is being sentenced for a riot he instigated fighting the rising taxes in Wales. Her father is found guilty and Sabrina is left to care for her Grandmother and sickly, but beautiful, sister Ceridwen. Upon waking the next day Sabrina finds her sister missing from her bed and on her search for Ceridwen discovers that all the fairy stories she loved are all true.
There's so much depth to this book, it makes me sad that it will mostly be marketed as a romantasy. Sure, there is romance here but there is also so much more. Sabrina's character arc is one of my favourites I've read in a long time. Usually I hate reading a bristly main character because authors rarely know how the develop them, but in this book Sabrina's arc is very satisfying.
Moving prose, cultural, historical and with commentaries on classism, sexuality, the topics mentioned above and more. I left this book learning some important things about Wales and wanting to research more, which is always a gift. Pretty much all of the historical events in this books are based on real things that happened on Wales. The riots at the beginning of the book were based on the Rebecca Riots of 1843, there are other events mentioned in the book also based on real events. However, I won't mention them here because I don't want to spoil moments in the book.
An absolutely stunning debut, I can't wait to read everything that Anna Fiteni does.
If you liked the vibes of Cruel Prince, Spiderwick, Once Upon a Broken Heart, Divine Rivals then I would highly recommend you this book.
July 6, 2025
Wow, what a book, what a debut: The Wicked Lies of Habren Faire has made me cry. I’ve never read a book that conveyed the emotion and familiarity of the bittersweet moment in our lives that is growing up (and it is in itself an ever changing process throughout our lives). Of leaving home and that yearning, wishful missing of it and knowing that if when you do comeback, it’ll be a slightly different home because you too have changed.
Sabrina is stubborn, charming and utter a sense of familiarity and nostalgia that we can all identify with. She is as complex and organic as we can be, and her loyalty, duty and love towards her family and sister is beautiful. She runs straight after her sister into the woods and into the fairy world because for once, she cannot stay put and watch herself lose someone else. In fact, this book is also a love letter to sisterhood.
I particularly adored the fairytale vibes in this book. In fact,t he whole story is told based on fairytales and welsh folklore which I initially thought I was very i the dark about but as I go, I kept finding out that I do know those creatures and it was honestly such a delightful experience! I went into this book expecting a fun and thrilling read with scheming heroines and wicked fairies and folks, to come out of it feeling like this book too, has changed me a little bit. Anna’s call to weave fairytales as a way of self discovery is truly magical.
There was also this very particular aspect to Anna’s storytelling that I want to mention: during the story and as the plot goes along, we have Sabrina directly talking to us, readers, and I felt that the moments Anna picked for it were just perfect. I felt even more connected to Sabrina and the story and a sense of being part of it. The moments were so familiar, hopeful and honestly everyone needs to pick up this book now!
Sabrina is stubborn, charming and utter a sense of familiarity and nostalgia that we can all identify with. She is as complex and organic as we can be, and her loyalty, duty and love towards her family and sister is beautiful. She runs straight after her sister into the woods and into the fairy world because for once, she cannot stay put and watch herself lose someone else. In fact, this book is also a love letter to sisterhood.
I particularly adored the fairytale vibes in this book. In fact,t he whole story is told based on fairytales and welsh folklore which I initially thought I was very i the dark about but as I go, I kept finding out that I do know those creatures and it was honestly such a delightful experience! I went into this book expecting a fun and thrilling read with scheming heroines and wicked fairies and folks, to come out of it feeling like this book too, has changed me a little bit. Anna’s call to weave fairytales as a way of self discovery is truly magical.
There was also this very particular aspect to Anna’s storytelling that I want to mention: during the story and as the plot goes along, we have Sabrina directly talking to us, readers, and I felt that the moments Anna picked for it were just perfect. I felt even more connected to Sabrina and the story and a sense of being part of it. The moments were so familiar, hopeful and honestly everyone needs to pick up this book now!
September 23, 2025
This book was everything I'd hoped for and more! It was sooo good! The writing was beautiful and whimsical, the plot was fast paced and unique, and the characters were complex and lovable! Sabrina was such a determined and driven main character! She had a bit of a mean streak, which I was actually kind of obsessed with, and she was genuinely such a great character! But…no matter how much I loved Sabrina, I must say that Neirin was hands down the most entertaining character in this novel! Always up to something, that one. I also thought that the sibling relationship in this novel was very well written! Beyond accurate! As far as content is concerned, this novel was definitely YA, but the writing itself felt much more mature than that of most YA novels, which I greatly appreciated! The vibe of this book was indeed very similar to that of The Cruel Prince, but it very much so remained its own story. The ending to this story was quite satisfying, as I believe it stayed very true to Sabrina’s character. All in all, I loved this book, and the fact that this is Anna's debut novel only makes it that much more impressive! 10/10 would recommend!
✨YA Fantasy/Romance
✨Welsh Folklore
✨Reluctant Allies to Lovers
✨Slow Burn Romance
✨Dangerous Fae
✨Court Intrigue
✨Amazing World Building
✨Whimsical & Enchanting
✨Grumpy/Snarky FMC
✨Morally Grey MMC
✨Disability Rep.
✨LGBTQ Rep.
✨Single POV
✨No Spice
✨YA Fantasy/Romance
✨Welsh Folklore
✨Reluctant Allies to Lovers
✨Slow Burn Romance
✨Dangerous Fae
✨Court Intrigue
✨Amazing World Building
✨Whimsical & Enchanting
✨Grumpy/Snarky FMC
✨Morally Grey MMC
✨Disability Rep.
✨LGBTQ Rep.
✨Single POV
✨No Spice
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