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Fairest
Not yet published
Expected 13 Feb 26A dark mafia retelling of Snow White. Perfect for fans of H D Carlton, Emily McIntire and Penelope Douglas.RED AS BLOOD
I never wanted to be part of his life. I am the law, and he is everything I’ve vowed against.
But every time I see him, I can’t help but imagine what I want him to do to me.
He has a reputation. A dark possessive side.
I know he’d hurt me. But maybe that’s what I want…
WHITE AS SNOW
I never wanted to hurt her. She should’ve known to stay away from me.
But there’s something about her innocence that I desire.
She’s everything my fiancée is not.
But my fiancée is a jealous woman. She’s also powerful.
I know where my loyalties should lie, but the taste of purity is too tempting. Just one drop and I promise, that’ll be enough…
I never wanted to be part of his life. I am the law, and he is everything I’ve vowed against.
But every time I see him, I can’t help but imagine what I want him to do to me.
He has a reputation. A dark possessive side.
I know he’d hurt me. But maybe that’s what I want…
WHITE AS SNOW
I never wanted to hurt her. She should’ve known to stay away from me.
But there’s something about her innocence that I desire.
She’s everything my fiancée is not.
But my fiancée is a jealous woman. She’s also powerful.
I know where my loyalties should lie, but the taste of purity is too tempting. Just one drop and I promise, that’ll be enough…
- GenresFantasyDark Romance
339 pages, Kindle Edition
Expected publication February 13, 2026
225 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 65 reviews
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
| ARC REVIEW | Publication Date: 13th Feb 2026
ᯓ ꒰ Tropes / Themes ꒱ ᯓ
🍎 Snow White retelling
🍎 Mafia Vibes
🍎 Faeries/Unseelie
🍎 Age Gap
🍎 Best friend's brother
🍎 Dangerous MMC X innocent FMC
🍎 Slow burn
ᯓ ꒰ My Thoughts ꒱ ᯓ
This was a clever and creative spin on the tale of Snow White, but I felt like the author was just trying to do too much. If it was simply a retelling of Snow White with a dark romance twist, I think it could've been really good. But in my opinion, the mafia vibe combined with the faerie/unseelie element and the need to keep track of the court's lore just pushed it over the line of "too much" for me, resulting in me really struggling to get into the story.
I found the plot and pacing messy which made reading this feel like a slog, and ultimately it failed to maintain my attention for the majority of the book. I eventually gave up trying to follow what was happening.
None of the characters particularly stood out to me and I felt that their personalities were lacking something unique.
The ending made it appear that the door has been left open for future books. However, I most likely won't be continuing the series.
Thank you to NetGalley, Mairi MacMillan, and HarperCollins UK | One More Chapter for gifting this eBook in exchange for an honest and unbiased review. All opinions are my own.
ᯓ ꒰ Tropes / Themes ꒱ ᯓ
🍎 Snow White retelling
🍎 Mafia Vibes
🍎 Faeries/Unseelie
🍎 Age Gap
🍎 Best friend's brother
🍎 Dangerous MMC X innocent FMC
🍎 Slow burn
ᯓ ꒰ My Thoughts ꒱ ᯓ
This was a clever and creative spin on the tale of Snow White, but I felt like the author was just trying to do too much. If it was simply a retelling of Snow White with a dark romance twist, I think it could've been really good. But in my opinion, the mafia vibe combined with the faerie/unseelie element and the need to keep track of the court's lore just pushed it over the line of "too much" for me, resulting in me really struggling to get into the story.
I found the plot and pacing messy which made reading this feel like a slog, and ultimately it failed to maintain my attention for the majority of the book. I eventually gave up trying to follow what was happening.
None of the characters particularly stood out to me and I felt that their personalities were lacking something unique.
The ending made it appear that the door has been left open for future books. However, I most likely won't be continuing the series.
Thank you to NetGalley, Mairi MacMillan, and HarperCollins UK | One More Chapter for gifting this eBook in exchange for an honest and unbiased review. All opinions are my own.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
this was my first book by this author. i'm willing to read more from them even though this book wasn't my favourite!
i didn't really care for the characters so the romance dwindled for me as well... i just couldn't connect with cillian, he gave me the ick sometimes. especially when he was excited about niamh being a virgin. and then niamh being a damsel in distress, kind of naive, too... she wasn't my favourite.
i did like rose though! would've loved to see more of her.
something about the writing style also didn't give me that solid feeling of loving it. i kept putting the book down and getting distracted...
i also didn't really care about the past chapters and instead preferred to stay in the present ones.
i loved the whole idea of there being unseelie and seelie courts but they weren't fully explored at all.
i also wouldn't call this book "mafia" romance as it was depicted.
i liked the beginning of the book but the plot gradually became more and more boring for me personally and i'm sad to say it... i had high hopes for this one!
the ending also wasn't surprising hence was really underwhelming. i'm sadly disappointed. 😭
unfortunately i can't recommend this one.
i didn't really care for the characters so the romance dwindled for me as well... i just couldn't connect with cillian, he gave me the ick sometimes. especially when he was excited about niamh being a virgin. and then niamh being a damsel in distress, kind of naive, too... she wasn't my favourite.
i did like rose though! would've loved to see more of her.
something about the writing style also didn't give me that solid feeling of loving it. i kept putting the book down and getting distracted...
i also didn't really care about the past chapters and instead preferred to stay in the present ones.
i loved the whole idea of there being unseelie and seelie courts but they weren't fully explored at all.
i also wouldn't call this book "mafia" romance as it was depicted.
i liked the beginning of the book but the plot gradually became more and more boring for me personally and i'm sad to say it... i had high hopes for this one!
the ending also wasn't surprising hence was really underwhelming. i'm sadly disappointed. 😭
unfortunately i can't recommend this one.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
⭐️⭐️✨ (2.5 stars)
Fairest is a retelling of Snow White with a mafia twist, and while the basis of a good story was definitely there and the writing itself was well done, it ultimately didn’t hold my attention the way I hoped it would. The plot follows a fairly typical siblings best-friend-turned-love-interest dynamic, which unfortunately felt quite predictable.
I found myself fairly disinterested in the main characters and their relationship felt lacking in depth and emotional pull. At times it also felt a little samey, making it hard to stay fully engaged throughout.
That said, I appreciate the effort behind the story and I’m grateful for the opportunity to read and review this book. Even with the door left open for a sequel, I don’t think I’d find myself reaching for the next instalment.
Thank you to NetGalley and Mairi Macmillan for the chance to read and review this.
Fairest is a retelling of Snow White with a mafia twist, and while the basis of a good story was definitely there and the writing itself was well done, it ultimately didn’t hold my attention the way I hoped it would. The plot follows a fairly typical siblings best-friend-turned-love-interest dynamic, which unfortunately felt quite predictable.
I found myself fairly disinterested in the main characters and their relationship felt lacking in depth and emotional pull. At times it also felt a little samey, making it hard to stay fully engaged throughout.
That said, I appreciate the effort behind the story and I’m grateful for the opportunity to read and review this book. Even with the door left open for a sequel, I don’t think I’d find myself reaching for the next instalment.
Thank you to NetGalley and Mairi Macmillan for the chance to read and review this.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
2.5 to 2.75 stars, rounded up because... Goodreads.
What's inside:
Dark Mafia like
Snow White Retelling
Age Gap
Best Friend's Brother
Slow Burn
Virgin FMC
Possessive MMC
Low Level Spice
This was an easy read story of a Snow White Retelling with some interesting twists on the characters.
The story follows Niamh and Cillian who both have an undeniable attraction to the other that they are trying to ignore. Niamh is a very innocent young woman who is working to become and lawyer, and Cillian is her best friends brother, and the Huntsman for the Unseelie King. Niamh is best friend with Rose, Cillians sister, who really likes to party and make questionable choices.
Cillian is in a relationship with the Unseelie King's daughter, Vittoria, and boy is she a piece of work! There is a lot of yearning and tension between our MCs with a slow-burn build-up to that inevitable moment where they cant fight their desire any longer.
This was a creative way to reimagine the story of Snow White, and the author definitely left the door open for at least 1 spin-off with the side characters.
I do think that calling this a good fit for people that like HD Carlton and Penelope Douglas is a bit of a stretch... this isn't really in the same area as their books. It has a Dark Mafia-esque vibe and thats about as close as it gets to those authors. It was OK to read once, but I won't be seeking out any further books in this series or by this author.
Thank you to Netgalley and Mairi Macamillan for an eARC of this book.
What's inside:
Dark Mafia like
Snow White Retelling
Age Gap
Best Friend's Brother
Slow Burn
Virgin FMC
Possessive MMC
Low Level Spice
This was an easy read story of a Snow White Retelling with some interesting twists on the characters.
The story follows Niamh and Cillian who both have an undeniable attraction to the other that they are trying to ignore. Niamh is a very innocent young woman who is working to become and lawyer, and Cillian is her best friends brother, and the Huntsman for the Unseelie King. Niamh is best friend with Rose, Cillians sister, who really likes to party and make questionable choices.
Cillian is in a relationship with the Unseelie King's daughter, Vittoria, and boy is she a piece of work! There is a lot of yearning and tension between our MCs with a slow-burn build-up to that inevitable moment where they cant fight their desire any longer.
This was a creative way to reimagine the story of Snow White, and the author definitely left the door open for at least 1 spin-off with the side characters.
I do think that calling this a good fit for people that like HD Carlton and Penelope Douglas is a bit of a stretch... this isn't really in the same area as their books. It has a Dark Mafia-esque vibe and thats about as close as it gets to those authors. It was OK to read once, but I won't be seeking out any further books in this series or by this author.
Thank you to Netgalley and Mairi Macamillan for an eARC of this book.
December 20, 2025
Thank you to Mairi MacMillan and One More Chapter (a division of HarperCollins UK) for giving me access to this book in exchange for an honest review.
There’s something deliciously unsettling about Fairest. From the moment I started reading, I could feel the darkness curling around the edges of the story, quiet but insistent, like a storm gathering over the sea.
And listen. Irish characters? Or at least Irish-named ones? You already had my attention.
Mairi MacMillan clearly knows what she’s doing here. The world is moody, sharp, and threaded with tension, and the characters feel carved rather than written. Not soft, not sweet, but real in that uncomfortable way that makes you lean in closer even when you’re not sure you like what you’re seeing.
This story doesn’t rush. It lets the unease build, lets the shadows stretch, and trusts the reader to keep up. And I did. Gladly.
Dark, gripping, and quietly confident, Fairest feels like the beginning of something dangerous in the best possible way. I’ll absolutely be back for more.
There’s something deliciously unsettling about Fairest. From the moment I started reading, I could feel the darkness curling around the edges of the story, quiet but insistent, like a storm gathering over the sea.
And listen. Irish characters? Or at least Irish-named ones? You already had my attention.
Mairi MacMillan clearly knows what she’s doing here. The world is moody, sharp, and threaded with tension, and the characters feel carved rather than written. Not soft, not sweet, but real in that uncomfortable way that makes you lean in closer even when you’re not sure you like what you’re seeing.
This story doesn’t rush. It lets the unease build, lets the shadows stretch, and trusts the reader to keep up. And I did. Gladly.
Dark, gripping, and quietly confident, Fairest feels like the beginning of something dangerous in the best possible way. I’ll absolutely be back for more.
Read
December 2, 2025Thank you to NetGalley and HarperCollins UK for an eARC in exchange for an honest review
Was made-up to be approved for this one and inhaled it in one night. It's ridiculously over-the-top, there's no build-up to their relationship, and I predicted the plot! 10/10 would recommend lol
But truly it was fast paced and upbeat and yet it read infinitely better than half the romance books I've read through NetGalley this year (no offence guys).
Works in loads of that good Scottish folklore, so if you're a big fantasy fan like myself you'll be right at home with all that. Only genuine problem for me was that at one point one of the characters thought "she's got a bloody cheek" instead of "she's got (some?) bloody cheek"
Was made-up to be approved for this one and inhaled it in one night. It's ridiculously over-the-top, there's no build-up to their relationship, and I predicted the plot! 10/10 would recommend lol
But truly it was fast paced and upbeat and yet it read infinitely better than half the romance books I've read through NetGalley this year (no offence guys).
Works in loads of that good Scottish folklore, so if you're a big fantasy fan like myself you'll be right at home with all that. Only genuine problem for me was that at one point one of the characters thought "she's got a bloody cheek" instead of "she's got (some?) bloody cheek"
December 9, 2025
"What happens in the darkness stays in the darkness"
Fairest by Mairi MacMillan is a retelling of Snow White that reflects this fairytale's classic, core components through a different mirror.
Infused with mafia, fae and Scottish folklore, this story piqued my curiosity from the premise and held it to the end. The story is dark and draped with danger for everyone, from our innocent & smart FMC Niamh, her best friend Rose who knows how to party, make questionable decisions and is the sister to our dangerous and possessive MMC Cillian, oh and then there is his fiancée Vittoria who is… well you'll see. The right amount of world-building sets the scenes well, giving me the detail I want to get into the story, without slowing things down too much.
The timeline spans four years with the majority in the present, though there are several chapters taking us back in time revealing needed information. I did meet these with a sense of impatience however, preferring to move forward to find out what happens next!
Overall I really enjoyed this read, it was engaging and perfect for those looking for a bingeable retelling.
Stars: ★★★★
Spice: ঌঌ
❥•• Retelling
❥•• Dual POV
❥•• Dark & possessive MMC
❥•• Innocent & smart FMC
❥•• Best friends brother
❥•• Scottish folklore
❥•• Fae & Humans
❥•• Dark mafia
❥•• Hunter/hunted
Huge thanks to HarperCollins UK, One More Chapter, Mairi MacMillan & NetGalley for the ARC. Release date: Feb 13, 2026.
Fairest by Mairi MacMillan is a retelling of Snow White that reflects this fairytale's classic, core components through a different mirror.
Infused with mafia, fae and Scottish folklore, this story piqued my curiosity from the premise and held it to the end. The story is dark and draped with danger for everyone, from our innocent & smart FMC Niamh, her best friend Rose who knows how to party, make questionable decisions and is the sister to our dangerous and possessive MMC Cillian, oh and then there is his fiancée Vittoria who is… well you'll see. The right amount of world-building sets the scenes well, giving me the detail I want to get into the story, without slowing things down too much.
The timeline spans four years with the majority in the present, though there are several chapters taking us back in time revealing needed information. I did meet these with a sense of impatience however, preferring to move forward to find out what happens next!
Overall I really enjoyed this read, it was engaging and perfect for those looking for a bingeable retelling.
Stars: ★★★★
Spice: ঌঌ
❥•• Retelling
❥•• Dual POV
❥•• Dark & possessive MMC
❥•• Innocent & smart FMC
❥•• Best friends brother
❥•• Scottish folklore
❥•• Fae & Humans
❥•• Dark mafia
❥•• Hunter/hunted
Huge thanks to HarperCollins UK, One More Chapter, Mairi MacMillan & NetGalley for the ARC. Release date: Feb 13, 2026.
December 7, 2025
Thank you to Harper Collins, NetGalley and Mairi MacMillan for the eARC of Fairest!
I've been really enjoying retellings of mythology, fairytales and popular stories lately, so when I read the description for Fairest, I was instantly intrigued!
I absolutely DEVOURED this book. I think it took me less than 12hours? (Thank goodness for plane travel and a boat sailing)
Firstly, I wasn't expecting this to be as addicting as it was. We've all read stories containing the Seelie and Unseelie fae, but this was gritty, dark, broody and just oh so delicious. It did take a while for me to understand how it was a "Snow White" retelling, and I felt a bit silly once I realised.
One thing I would like to point out, I was completely taken out of the immersion by the word "block" to describe a street. I'm not sure where Mairi is from, but I know it's not common in the UK (Fairest is based in modern day Glasgow to my knowledge) so this brought me out for a moment.
I loved the twists, the turns and the budding romance between Cillian and Niamh. (Also can I comment how lovely it was to have so many Irish names? More, thank you!) I really hope there's a second book to this, because I need to know how it ends.
If you're a dark romance reader who enjoys fantasy with a bit of tension and spice (depending on your spice tastes, this could be super spicy or mild spice, but regardless, it was hot!), you're going to absolutely love this!
I've already recommended to a friend and would happily recommend to others, and please Mairi, give me a second book! I'm begging you.
I've been really enjoying retellings of mythology, fairytales and popular stories lately, so when I read the description for Fairest, I was instantly intrigued!
I absolutely DEVOURED this book. I think it took me less than 12hours? (Thank goodness for plane travel and a boat sailing)
Firstly, I wasn't expecting this to be as addicting as it was. We've all read stories containing the Seelie and Unseelie fae, but this was gritty, dark, broody and just oh so delicious. It did take a while for me to understand how it was a "Snow White" retelling, and I felt a bit silly once I realised.
One thing I would like to point out, I was completely taken out of the immersion by the word "block" to describe a street. I'm not sure where Mairi is from, but I know it's not common in the UK (Fairest is based in modern day Glasgow to my knowledge) so this brought me out for a moment.
I loved the twists, the turns and the budding romance between Cillian and Niamh. (Also can I comment how lovely it was to have so many Irish names? More, thank you!) I really hope there's a second book to this, because I need to know how it ends.
If you're a dark romance reader who enjoys fantasy with a bit of tension and spice (depending on your spice tastes, this could be super spicy or mild spice, but regardless, it was hot!), you're going to absolutely love this!
I've already recommended to a friend and would happily recommend to others, and please Mairi, give me a second book! I'm begging you.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
4.5 stars rounded to 5 for Goodreads!
This is my first Snow White retelling and I have to say I am hooked! This had me wanting to do nothing but read from beginning to end. The writer knew exactly how to draw you in and keep the interest going throughout the whole book. at one point I had actually butterflies in my stomach from the suspension of 'The Hunt'.
If you loved Snow White as a kid but want an upgraded, mature 🥵 version then this is for you!
My only issue with the main character is she was kind of oblivious to everything and everyone around her but I understand that it's part of the plot. Cillian could have been a little more upfront about what was happening. I felt so bad for Rose at the end but also relieved to see how Cillian and Niamh ended up!
ALSO...WHERE IS MATT?! 👀👀
This is my first Snow White retelling and I have to say I am hooked! This had me wanting to do nothing but read from beginning to end. The writer knew exactly how to draw you in and keep the interest going throughout the whole book. at one point I had actually butterflies in my stomach from the suspension of 'The Hunt'.
If you loved Snow White as a kid but want an upgraded, mature 🥵 version then this is for you!
My only issue with the main character is she was kind of oblivious to everything and everyone around her but I understand that it's part of the plot. Cillian could have been a little more upfront about what was happening. I felt so bad for Rose at the end but also relieved to see how Cillian and Niamh ended up!
ALSO...WHERE IS MATT?! 👀👀
November 29, 2025
This is my first title by Mairi MacMillan and I had the pleasure to read the kindle on Netgalley. Thank you to the author for allowing me this opportunity.
Oh Goodness where to start?! Not even done with the prologue and I'm already so consumed by this book I could hardly put it down again. The Kindle followed me everywhere in my apartment 😂
The writing was top notch! Mairi brought me into a whole new world with her great way of world building and story telling. She made sure to create a world where I didn't have to imagine it.
This story is for you, If you enjoy a great fantasy story with a bit of romance and suspense. My heart pounded so fast while reading this story!
Oh Goodness where to start?! Not even done with the prologue and I'm already so consumed by this book I could hardly put it down again. The Kindle followed me everywhere in my apartment 😂
The writing was top notch! Mairi brought me into a whole new world with her great way of world building and story telling. She made sure to create a world where I didn't have to imagine it.
This story is for you, If you enjoy a great fantasy story with a bit of romance and suspense. My heart pounded so fast while reading this story!
December 6, 2025
thank you for netgalley for this arc!
this book was an interesting read. i struggled to get into it initially but persevered until the latter half which was much better. i liked the characters and the plot, it naturally sets itself up for a sequel. however i did feel that i had read books that were similar to it in terms of characters more so than the plot. nonetheless, it was an enjoyable read!
this book was an interesting read. i struggled to get into it initially but persevered until the latter half which was much better. i liked the characters and the plot, it naturally sets itself up for a sequel. however i did feel that i had read books that were similar to it in terms of characters more so than the plot. nonetheless, it was an enjoyable read!
December 24, 2025
Thank you NetGalley for the ARC
DNF 35% in
I struggled to get into this book, I can usually read a book in a day or two. I’ve spent 3 weeks tryin to read this with no real desire to finish. The story line is meh to me and does have potential but it just didn’t hit the mark for me.
The first 100 pages drag on and I just got bored and lost interest
DNF 35% in
I struggled to get into this book, I can usually read a book in a day or two. I’ve spent 3 weeks tryin to read this with no real desire to finish. The story line is meh to me and does have potential but it just didn’t hit the mark for me.
The first 100 pages drag on and I just got bored and lost interest
November 28, 2025
"what happens in the darkness stays in the darkness"
Okay i actually cried a good bit at this a few chapters before bed easily turned into another all nighhter to read more as this was so good
Im gonna say I regret reading this but only because I need more so much more
Okay i actually cried a good bit at this a few chapters before bed easily turned into another all nighhter to read more as this was so good
Im gonna say I regret reading this but only because I need more so much more
December 19, 2025
thank you to one more chapter / harpercollins and mairi macmillan for providing me with an arc in exchange for an honest review
⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
tropes
fae mafia worldbuilding
unseelie court politics
age gap
best friend’s brother
yearning love
possessive love interest
found family
forbidden romance vibes
overall thoughts ~
fairest was a genuinely fun and engaging read with a strong central concept. the idea of reimagining a fae world through a mafia lens, especially within the unseelie court, was fresh and compelling, and it immediately set the tone for a darker, more dangerous romance. while the book succeeds in atmosphere and romantic tension, it struggles with pacing and scope. the story attempts to establish a highly complex world with layered family dynamics, political hierarchies, and fae lore, but it doesn’t give itself enough space to fully develop those elements. as a result, the romance shines more than the fantasy framework supporting it. still, it was an enjoyable ride and one i’d recommend to readers who prioritize tropey, emotionally charged romance over dense worldbuilding.
see below for full review (with small spoilers)
_______________________________________
the concept of fairest is easily its strongest hook. blending traditional fae elements with mafia-style power structures and ruling families creates a world that feels dangerous, indulgent, and morally gray. the unseelie court in particular lends itself well to this interpretation, and i appreciated how the story leaned into control, loyalty, and reputation rather than the softer, whimsical fae tropes seen in other books. on a conceptual level, this worked extremely well and kept me interested throughout.
where the book begins to falter is in how much it tries to introduce all at once. there are a lot of characters, families, and implied histories layered into the narrative, but the groundwork isn’t fully laid for readers to grasp the significance of each one. the story is still followable, but many elements feel more suggested than explored. instead of fully understanding the political and familial dynamics at play, i often felt like i was skimming the surface of something much deeper. this is especially noticeable because the book clearly wants to present a complex, mafia-like hierarchy, but doesn’t quite give those structures enough time to breathe.
this same issue affects character development. several characters have the potential for compelling arcs, yet they don’t receive enough focus to feel fully realized. relationships and loyalties are established quickly, sometimes at the expense of emotional depth. i didn’t dislike the characters, but i wanted more time with them to understand their motivations and inner conflicts beyond their roles in the story. the narrative often moves on just as something interesting is introduced.
the hunter is a great example of this. conceptually, it’s one of the most intriguing aspects of the book, but it feels underexplored. i wanted more explanation, more context, and more integration into the story as a whole. this applies to several elements of the worldbuilding: they’re interesting ideas, but they remain just out of reach, as if the book needed either more pages or a tighter focus to fully commit to them.
fairest feels like a book with big ambitions and a clear vision, but limited space to execute everything it set out to do. it works best as a dark fae romance with mafia aesthetics rather than a fully fleshed-out fantasy epic. i enjoyed it, especially for the tropes and the romantic tension, but i couldn’t help wishing for deeper worldbuilding and more developed characters. for readers who love fae romance with a darker edge and don’t mind a faster, less detailed approach to lore, this will still be a very enjoyable read
⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
tropes
fae mafia worldbuilding
unseelie court politics
age gap
best friend’s brother
yearning love
possessive love interest
found family
forbidden romance vibes
overall thoughts ~
fairest was a genuinely fun and engaging read with a strong central concept. the idea of reimagining a fae world through a mafia lens, especially within the unseelie court, was fresh and compelling, and it immediately set the tone for a darker, more dangerous romance. while the book succeeds in atmosphere and romantic tension, it struggles with pacing and scope. the story attempts to establish a highly complex world with layered family dynamics, political hierarchies, and fae lore, but it doesn’t give itself enough space to fully develop those elements. as a result, the romance shines more than the fantasy framework supporting it. still, it was an enjoyable ride and one i’d recommend to readers who prioritize tropey, emotionally charged romance over dense worldbuilding.
see below for full review (with small spoilers)
_______________________________________
the concept of fairest is easily its strongest hook. blending traditional fae elements with mafia-style power structures and ruling families creates a world that feels dangerous, indulgent, and morally gray. the unseelie court in particular lends itself well to this interpretation, and i appreciated how the story leaned into control, loyalty, and reputation rather than the softer, whimsical fae tropes seen in other books. on a conceptual level, this worked extremely well and kept me interested throughout.
where the book begins to falter is in how much it tries to introduce all at once. there are a lot of characters, families, and implied histories layered into the narrative, but the groundwork isn’t fully laid for readers to grasp the significance of each one. the story is still followable, but many elements feel more suggested than explored. instead of fully understanding the political and familial dynamics at play, i often felt like i was skimming the surface of something much deeper. this is especially noticeable because the book clearly wants to present a complex, mafia-like hierarchy, but doesn’t quite give those structures enough time to breathe.
this same issue affects character development. several characters have the potential for compelling arcs, yet they don’t receive enough focus to feel fully realized. relationships and loyalties are established quickly, sometimes at the expense of emotional depth. i didn’t dislike the characters, but i wanted more time with them to understand their motivations and inner conflicts beyond their roles in the story. the narrative often moves on just as something interesting is introduced.
the hunter is a great example of this. conceptually, it’s one of the most intriguing aspects of the book, but it feels underexplored. i wanted more explanation, more context, and more integration into the story as a whole. this applies to several elements of the worldbuilding: they’re interesting ideas, but they remain just out of reach, as if the book needed either more pages or a tighter focus to fully commit to them.
fairest feels like a book with big ambitions and a clear vision, but limited space to execute everything it set out to do. it works best as a dark fae romance with mafia aesthetics rather than a fully fleshed-out fantasy epic. i enjoyed it, especially for the tropes and the romantic tension, but i couldn’t help wishing for deeper worldbuilding and more developed characters. for readers who love fae romance with a darker edge and don’t mind a faster, less detailed approach to lore, this will still be a very enjoyable read
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
She craves him; he must hunt her.
Dark. Delicious. And impossible to resist!
In this Snow White-inspired tale of mystery and fantasy, familial and political bonds begin to fray under the weight of old magic and quiet, unexpected defiance. Niamf, orphaned and alone, has resolved to fight for her chance to seek justice in this world by becoming a lawyer. She never expects to find herself embroiled in the very battle she thought she'd fight on behalf of other innocents. Cillian, broody and powerful, has lived the last several years with one singular goal in mind: rid the world of the unjust Unseelie King. Against his wishes, their paths cross - until he's forced to confront her.
In true fairytale fashion, I love that the feelings of our main characters are kept as beautiful secrets, rearing their heads at the most inopportune, and most romantic, times. As the tale becomes more complicated, Cillian and Niamf are drawn together again and again until there's no possible way to ignore the signs. Even if it means Niamf must forsake all she believed to be real in order to save herself. She craves him even as he is bound to hunt her.
The magical and mystical elements of the Celtic myths were so masterfully woven into this story. I love that the story took place in a world like ours, brushed up against a world where magic and myth still rule. And the way that MacMillan creates space for the unexpected at every turn. Even knowing the fairytale, my curiosity was constantly piqued and my attention always leaping ahead to unravel what came next. The darker elements were paired perfectly with the insatiable pull of romance. The characters were well crafted and their transformation irresistible. Fairest is perfect for readers who appreciate darker romance and the pull of fate, myth, and magic.
What could be lurking in the shadows? Which forces seek to play with fate? Prepare yourself to question the reality you've grown comfortable with and allow yourself to be swept away with notions of what could be. You may find you've been pulled in by the magic and fantasy that refuses to lose its grip on you - and you won't mind being caught up in that reality. Thank you to NetGalley, One More Chapter, and Miari MacMillan for the opportunity to read and share my honest thoughts.
January 11, 2026
Unfortunately, I don’t have a much stronger review for this book than this: the concept was promising, but the execution didn’t live up to it.
This is meant to be a Snow White retelling with dark fae and mafia-adjacent elements, but it felt like the author tried to include too many ideas at once. Instead of focusing on a few core threads and developing them fully, the story introduced a lot of elements that were never given enough depth to feel meaningful.
The story follows Niamh and Cillian. Cillian is engaged to Vittoria, a union that would help secure his rise to power, but he clearly wants Niamh, which are feelings she shares. While the emotional tension between them had potential, the constant back-and-forth between past and present disrupted the pacing and made it difficult to stay immersed. Some reveals, particularly regarding Niamh’s identity, felt predictable, while the backstory involving her parents didn’t quite make sense or feel fully integrated into the narrative.
Several aspects of the world-building were underdeveloped. The lore surrounding the Seelie and Unseelie courts was not clearly explained, making it hard to understand the political dynamics at play. Vittoria, who was positioned as a central antagonist, lacked depth. She was just there.
The seven men meant to parallel the seven dwarves were barely explored, and I found myself wishing Niamh had more meaningful interactions with them to make their presence relevant.
Ultimately, this book felt like it needed more space. If this story had been split into a duology, with time to properly develop the characters, lore, and relationships, it could have been much stronger. The final act conflict, in particular, was resolved far too quickly, making the ending feel rushed and unsatisfying.
This is meant to be a Snow White retelling with dark fae and mafia-adjacent elements, but it felt like the author tried to include too many ideas at once. Instead of focusing on a few core threads and developing them fully, the story introduced a lot of elements that were never given enough depth to feel meaningful.
The story follows Niamh and Cillian. Cillian is engaged to Vittoria, a union that would help secure his rise to power, but he clearly wants Niamh, which are feelings she shares. While the emotional tension between them had potential, the constant back-and-forth between past and present disrupted the pacing and made it difficult to stay immersed. Some reveals, particularly regarding Niamh’s identity, felt predictable, while the backstory involving her parents didn’t quite make sense or feel fully integrated into the narrative.
Several aspects of the world-building were underdeveloped. The lore surrounding the Seelie and Unseelie courts was not clearly explained, making it hard to understand the political dynamics at play. Vittoria, who was positioned as a central antagonist, lacked depth. She was just there.
The seven men meant to parallel the seven dwarves were barely explored, and I found myself wishing Niamh had more meaningful interactions with them to make their presence relevant.
Ultimately, this book felt like it needed more space. If this story had been split into a duology, with time to properly develop the characters, lore, and relationships, it could have been much stronger. The final act conflict, in particular, was resolved far too quickly, making the ending feel rushed and unsatisfying.
dnf
January 13, 2026Fairest jest retellingiem Snow White (Królewna Śnieżka) - i właśnie z tego powodu w ogóle chciałam tę książkę przeczytać. Póki co jednak wychodzi, że wspólne z baśnią to są tylko postać złej typiary i prośba o przyniesienie serca.
Przytłoczyła tę książkę nieudana i chaotyczna próba wprowadzenia szalenie skomplikowanej intrygi politycznej. Ciężko zrozumieć, co właściwie dzieje się w tym świecie, oprócz tego, że istnieją ludzie i stworzenia, które wyglądają jak ludzie ale mają jakieś magiczne moce. Nie znamy zasad tego świata, poza faktem, że jak człowiek zabije Kina (cokolwiek to jest) to musi zapierdzielać po lesie a główny bohater, magiczny hunter (z ambicją zostania królem),będzie na niego polować. No i tak się składa, że dziewczyna na którą pan hunter leci (i najlepsza przyjaciółka jego siostry) przypadkiem jednego Kina zabiła, więc chłop musiał ją do lasu wywieźć, czy chciał czy nie chciał (niby nie chciał, bo na nią leci, ale trochę chciał). Ona jednak znalazła magiczne sanktuarium, ja za to poddałam się z lekturą, bo przyjemności mi ta książka sprawiła zero.
Ciężko i topornie jest to napisane. Pierwsze rozdziały przytłaczają opisami - które przeplatają próbę nakreślenia świata i polityki (która nie wyszła) z opisami westchnień bohatera do bohaterki i nawzajem. Potem mamy trochę dynamicznej akcji, a do tego bardzo niedelikatne hinty, że w sumie to magia na dziewczynę nie działa, więc pewnie będzie pochodziła z rodu jakiejś innej rasy, co wyginęła. Czyli zero zaskoczeń.
Może gdyby to było lepiej napisane, to miałabym ochotę sprawdzić dalej, co fabularnie wymyśliła autorka, ale no nie dam rady. A szkoda, bo pomysł był fajny, nawet z głupiego powodu jakim jest połączenie wątków romantasy z mafijnym klimatem.
DNF at 51%.
Przytłoczyła tę książkę nieudana i chaotyczna próba wprowadzenia szalenie skomplikowanej intrygi politycznej. Ciężko zrozumieć, co właściwie dzieje się w tym świecie, oprócz tego, że istnieją ludzie i stworzenia, które wyglądają jak ludzie ale mają jakieś magiczne moce. Nie znamy zasad tego świata, poza faktem, że jak człowiek zabije Kina (cokolwiek to jest) to musi zapierdzielać po lesie a główny bohater, magiczny hunter (z ambicją zostania królem),będzie na niego polować. No i tak się składa, że dziewczyna na którą pan hunter leci (i najlepsza przyjaciółka jego siostry) przypadkiem jednego Kina zabiła, więc chłop musiał ją do lasu wywieźć, czy chciał czy nie chciał (niby nie chciał, bo na nią leci, ale trochę chciał). Ona jednak znalazła magiczne sanktuarium, ja za to poddałam się z lekturą, bo przyjemności mi ta książka sprawiła zero.
Ciężko i topornie jest to napisane. Pierwsze rozdziały przytłaczają opisami - które przeplatają próbę nakreślenia świata i polityki (która nie wyszła) z opisami westchnień bohatera do bohaterki i nawzajem. Potem mamy trochę dynamicznej akcji, a do tego bardzo niedelikatne hinty, że w sumie to magia na dziewczynę nie działa, więc pewnie będzie pochodziła z rodu jakiejś innej rasy, co wyginęła. Czyli zero zaskoczeń.
Może gdyby to było lepiej napisane, to miałabym ochotę sprawdzić dalej, co fabularnie wymyśliła autorka, ale no nie dam rady. A szkoda, bo pomysł był fajny, nawet z głupiego powodu jakim jest połączenie wątków romantasy z mafijnym klimatem.
DNF at 51%.
December 17, 2025
This Snow White retelling with a mafia twist was such a fun change of pace in my reading lineup. I like to mix in spicy romances between thrillers and fantasy to keep things fresh, and this one definitely gave me that mix of fairy tale nostalgia and gritty underworld drama.
The story follows Cillian and Niamh, who are stuck between duty, ambition, and feelings they’re trying hard to ignore. Their chemistry is strong, but the romance moves slowly. If you’re looking for constant spice, you might be left wanting more as the author leans more into tension and buildup than swoon. The villain is evil enough to make your skin crawl, but she didn’t have the depth or surprise factor that could’ve made her stand out more.
What I liked:
• The mafia angle gave the fairy tale a darker edge.
• The retelling felt familiar but still fresh.
• Cillian was a solid male lead who kept the romance interesting.
What I didn’t love:
• The villain felt a bit one-note.
• Niamh’s innocence sometimes came across as frustrating.
• The premise was strong, but the execution left some gaps.
Ratings:
• Setting: ⭐️⭐️⭐️
• Characters: ⭐️⭐️⭐️
• Writing: ⭐️⭐️⭐️
• Message: ⭐️⭐️⭐️
• Overall: ⭐️⭐️⭐️
All in all, it’s a quick, engaging read with a cool mix of mafia vibe and fairy tale magic. The twists weren’t shocking, but the vibe made it stand out. Perfect if you’re into romance retellings who don't mind a slower burn.
~JaNnA~
The story follows Cillian and Niamh, who are stuck between duty, ambition, and feelings they’re trying hard to ignore. Their chemistry is strong, but the romance moves slowly. If you’re looking for constant spice, you might be left wanting more as the author leans more into tension and buildup than swoon. The villain is evil enough to make your skin crawl, but she didn’t have the depth or surprise factor that could’ve made her stand out more.
What I liked:
• The mafia angle gave the fairy tale a darker edge.
• The retelling felt familiar but still fresh.
• Cillian was a solid male lead who kept the romance interesting.
What I didn’t love:
• The villain felt a bit one-note.
• Niamh’s innocence sometimes came across as frustrating.
• The premise was strong, but the execution left some gaps.
Ratings:
• Setting: ⭐️⭐️⭐️
• Characters: ⭐️⭐️⭐️
• Writing: ⭐️⭐️⭐️
• Message: ⭐️⭐️⭐️
• Overall: ⭐️⭐️⭐️
All in all, it’s a quick, engaging read with a cool mix of mafia vibe and fairy tale magic. The twists weren’t shocking, but the vibe made it stand out. Perfect if you’re into romance retellings who don't mind a slower burn.
~JaNnA~
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Thank you Harper Collins, Mairi MacMillian, and NetGalley for the privilege to read this eARC
Taking place in Scotland, The Celtic folklore woven into the story is what peaked my interest in first reading this novel.
This dark romance, mafia version of Snow White gave me a new morally grey man to fall for. Fairest starts off high pace and captivates the audience wanting to know more. Cillian is Kin, Niamh is human. They desire each other but come from different worlds. Cillian is betrothed to the kings daughter, a wicked woman. He has secretly manipulated Niamh's love life to protect her but also prevent her from having any time of romantic relationship. Niamh's best friend is Cillian's sister and the two of them get themselves in a dangerous situation. Niamh breaks kinfolk rule and is sentenced be punished. Cillian is a hunter and Niamh becomes his prey. The narrative transition back and forth not only between the characters but also going back in time to give more of and understanding to the relationship between the two and how their characters intertwine. The novel really picks up the last half of the book and becomes impossible to set down. Cillian's Touch her and Die mindset along with the intense longing for Niamh gives a decent amount of spice and tension throughout the novel. The ending of the book sets the stage perfectly for a sequel.
"What happens in the darkness stays in the darkness"
Taking place in Scotland, The Celtic folklore woven into the story is what peaked my interest in first reading this novel.
This dark romance, mafia version of Snow White gave me a new morally grey man to fall for. Fairest starts off high pace and captivates the audience wanting to know more. Cillian is Kin, Niamh is human. They desire each other but come from different worlds. Cillian is betrothed to the kings daughter, a wicked woman. He has secretly manipulated Niamh's love life to protect her but also prevent her from having any time of romantic relationship. Niamh's best friend is Cillian's sister and the two of them get themselves in a dangerous situation. Niamh breaks kinfolk rule and is sentenced be punished. Cillian is a hunter and Niamh becomes his prey. The narrative transition back and forth not only between the characters but also going back in time to give more of and understanding to the relationship between the two and how their characters intertwine. The novel really picks up the last half of the book and becomes impossible to set down. Cillian's Touch her and Die mindset along with the intense longing for Niamh gives a decent amount of spice and tension throughout the novel. The ending of the book sets the stage perfectly for a sequel.
"What happens in the darkness stays in the darkness"
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Fairest by Mairi MacMillan is a dark Snow White retelling with a mafia twist that initially sounded like a fun and fresh concept, but unfortunately didn’t fully deliver. While the premise had a lot of potential, the execution fell flat for me. The pacing was a major issue. A significant portion of the book takes place over the span of a single night (weird), which made the story feel unnecessarily drawn out and stalled any meaningful character development. The first half dragged heavily, and by the time things began to pick up, I found myself already disengaged.
The writing style leaned more YA than expected, which didn’t quite match the darker themes the book was aiming for. Which also played a part why I wasn’t a huge fan of this piece of work. Character growth felt minimal: Niamh showed some progression in standing up for herself, but Cillian’s arc mostly consisted of acknowledging feelings he’d been denying all along. The romance and spice were clearly the focal point, yet even those moments felt quite underwhelming after such a long buildup.
Additionally, the world-building left me confused at times. The story around the Seelie and Unseelie courts and the magic system wasn’t clearly explained, making it difficult to fully grasp the stakes.
Overall, Fairest wasn’t a bad idea, it just didn’t hit the mark for me, and despite its promise, it struggled to hold my interest from start to finish.
The writing style leaned more YA than expected, which didn’t quite match the darker themes the book was aiming for. Which also played a part why I wasn’t a huge fan of this piece of work. Character growth felt minimal: Niamh showed some progression in standing up for herself, but Cillian’s arc mostly consisted of acknowledging feelings he’d been denying all along. The romance and spice were clearly the focal point, yet even those moments felt quite underwhelming after such a long buildup.
Additionally, the world-building left me confused at times. The story around the Seelie and Unseelie courts and the magic system wasn’t clearly explained, making it difficult to fully grasp the stakes.
Overall, Fairest wasn’t a bad idea, it just didn’t hit the mark for me, and despite its promise, it struggled to hold my interest from start to finish.
Read
January 10, 2026So where do I begin with this one.
The first thing is that although I consider myself a retelling lover, never before I read a snow white one (tbh is not one of my favourites stories). But as dark romance and mafia is I decided to give this a shot, and well I have opinions.
To begin with the good, the story is interesting and the main characters do have chemistry between them. The principal idea of the curt, hunting people, the underworld and everything around it was really good, but the bad part is that it was introduced really fast, as if you should already know about it. The relation between the book and the Celtic myths and the story was a good addition to a retelling that well, we all know how it ends. And ofc we have Cillian.
But the bad things were there too. The premise was good, but the development of it left lots of gaps, the characters dont have either time to be liked or to developed, so we end up liking Rose, Cillian and Niamh. The book did too much? Idk how to put it out but it always had too much goin on without focusing on anything. The pacing at times was messy too.
That being said, did I hate it? no Would I read a second one? Not sure
Ps. Thank you to NetGalley and Mairi MacMillan for gifting this eBook in exchange for an honest and unbiased review.
The first thing is that although I consider myself a retelling lover, never before I read a snow white one (tbh is not one of my favourites stories). But as dark romance and mafia is I decided to give this a shot, and well I have opinions.
To begin with the good, the story is interesting and the main characters do have chemistry between them. The principal idea of the curt, hunting people, the underworld and everything around it was really good, but the bad part is that it was introduced really fast, as if you should already know about it. The relation between the book and the Celtic myths and the story was a good addition to a retelling that well, we all know how it ends. And ofc we have Cillian.
But the bad things were there too. The premise was good, but the development of it left lots of gaps, the characters dont have either time to be liked or to developed, so we end up liking Rose, Cillian and Niamh. The book did too much? Idk how to put it out but it always had too much goin on without focusing on anything. The pacing at times was messy too.
That being said, did I hate it? no Would I read a second one? Not sure
Ps. Thank you to NetGalley and Mairi MacMillan for gifting this eBook in exchange for an honest and unbiased review.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
This story follows Niamh, a human who has no idea the fae world exists, even though it’s been intertwined with the human one this whole time. Cillian is fae and part of the court — and more importantly, he’s a hunter. If the court decides someone is guilty, fae or human, he’s the one sent to make sure they don’t exist anymore.
There’s a strong, immediate connection between them, but Cillian pushes back on it because he wants to become king one day to save the fae court. The only way to do that is through a political marriage to the current king’s daughter… who is not exactly likable.
This is a Snow White retelling with modern fae and mafia vibes, wrapped in a dark fairytale atmosphere and set in the 21st century. If you’re looking for a dark fairytale in a modern setting with a possessive MMC, dual POV, and just enough spice sprinkled in, this is definitely one to read.
Even though you can guess certain plot points because it’s a retelling, I still had so much fun reading this, and my imagination was going the entire time.
This was my first book by this author, but it definitely won’t be my last. I’m really hoping we get more stories in this world — especially for Rose and Matt.
There’s a strong, immediate connection between them, but Cillian pushes back on it because he wants to become king one day to save the fae court. The only way to do that is through a political marriage to the current king’s daughter… who is not exactly likable.
This is a Snow White retelling with modern fae and mafia vibes, wrapped in a dark fairytale atmosphere and set in the 21st century. If you’re looking for a dark fairytale in a modern setting with a possessive MMC, dual POV, and just enough spice sprinkled in, this is definitely one to read.
Even though you can guess certain plot points because it’s a retelling, I still had so much fun reading this, and my imagination was going the entire time.
This was my first book by this author, but it definitely won’t be my last. I’m really hoping we get more stories in this world — especially for Rose and Matt.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
ARC Review of Fairest by Mairi MacMillan
* * * * *
Fairytale retelling with a modern fae/mafia style twist. You have your innocent Snow White, a Huntsman stuck carrying out a duty, a wicked queen-wanna-be, not-so-much dwarfish men, and a world in peril.
Niamh and Cillian could not deny their affection for each other.
It started years ago, but nothing could become of it.
Niamh was a human lawyer.
Cillian was a fae trying to ascend to the throne of his people, engaged to a wicked woman, and has a duty that has led to deceipt, betrayal and death.
Both worlds were never meant to colliode, until one terrible night. A terrible plot, a death, and consequences have Niamh facing the death penalty as per the laws of Kin...and Cillian is to carry out her sentencing.
There is one chance for her: to run and pray the huntsman does not find her for the wicked queen to get her heart.
An interested retelling with lots of sexual chemitry between the MCs, some amazing surprises, and plot twists that will have you guessing where the hell it came from.
Fantastic villain. Fun characters. Questionable leadership.
Would recommend a read to those wanting something with these tropes.
* * * * *
Fairytale retelling with a modern fae/mafia style twist. You have your innocent Snow White, a Huntsman stuck carrying out a duty, a wicked queen-wanna-be, not-so-much dwarfish men, and a world in peril.
Niamh and Cillian could not deny their affection for each other.
It started years ago, but nothing could become of it.
Niamh was a human lawyer.
Cillian was a fae trying to ascend to the throne of his people, engaged to a wicked woman, and has a duty that has led to deceipt, betrayal and death.
Both worlds were never meant to colliode, until one terrible night. A terrible plot, a death, and consequences have Niamh facing the death penalty as per the laws of Kin...and Cillian is to carry out her sentencing.
There is one chance for her: to run and pray the huntsman does not find her for the wicked queen to get her heart.
An interested retelling with lots of sexual chemitry between the MCs, some amazing surprises, and plot twists that will have you guessing where the hell it came from.
Fantastic villain. Fun characters. Questionable leadership.
Would recommend a read to those wanting something with these tropes.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
The blurb, the list of tropes and the categorisation on NetGalley (Erotica and Romance) all fail to specify that Fairest is a fantasy. Maybe it's meant to be obvious that a Snow White retelling would contain magic, but there are definitely ways to tell a mafia version of Snow White without magic, such as drugs, which are used in this story as well as magic. And Fae is huge in romantasy and dark fantasy romance etc, so I don't know why that isn't mentioned in the blurb, tropes and NetGalley categorisation.
Anyway, this is definitely fantasy, with seelie and unseelie fae courts. I liked how different the setting was - I can't remember reading a fantasy with Fae set in an urban city like Glasgow, Scotland, before. So I thought that set it apart from other fantasies. Overall though, this one just wasn't for me unfortunately. I think it was the characters mainly, I just didn't connect to them so I didn't get caught up in the story. Niamh felt way too naive and young and that rarely works for me in an FMC sadly.
Disclaimer: I received an Advance Reader Copy from NetGalley but this is my voluntary and honest review.
Anyway, this is definitely fantasy, with seelie and unseelie fae courts. I liked how different the setting was - I can't remember reading a fantasy with Fae set in an urban city like Glasgow, Scotland, before. So I thought that set it apart from other fantasies. Overall though, this one just wasn't for me unfortunately. I think it was the characters mainly, I just didn't connect to them so I didn't get caught up in the story. Niamh felt way too naive and young and that rarely works for me in an FMC sadly.
Disclaimer: I received an Advance Reader Copy from NetGalley but this is my voluntary and honest review.
December 10, 2025
Fairest hits hard with danger, temptation, and a don't look, don't touch, and yet I can't resist kind of romance. The main characters are on opposite sides: one is law, duty, everything she's sworn to protect; the other is dark, powerful, and tied to a dangerous underworld. But every time they meet… the pull is undeniable, their attraction crackles with tension and forbidden desire.
This retelling of a classic fairy tale brings in mafia-style stakes: loyalty, violence, secrets, and a hero with a possessive edge. You feel both the danger and the thrill, like a rush of adrenaline and dread whenever they're together. The heroine questions everything she believed in. The hero… well, he's all rough edges wrapped in dangerous allure.
If you like intense, morally grey romance, dark secrets, possessive heat, and a hard "maybe this is wrong, but also this feels so right" vibe, this book is a wild ride. It's not soft. It's not safe. But damn, it's addictive.
Tropes: Mafia-style crime romance, Forbidden attraction, Dark hero, Intense chemistry, Moral conflict.
This retelling of a classic fairy tale brings in mafia-style stakes: loyalty, violence, secrets, and a hero with a possessive edge. You feel both the danger and the thrill, like a rush of adrenaline and dread whenever they're together. The heroine questions everything she believed in. The hero… well, he's all rough edges wrapped in dangerous allure.
If you like intense, morally grey romance, dark secrets, possessive heat, and a hard "maybe this is wrong, but also this feels so right" vibe, this book is a wild ride. It's not soft. It's not safe. But damn, it's addictive.
Tropes: Mafia-style crime romance, Forbidden attraction, Dark hero, Intense chemistry, Moral conflict.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
First thank you HarperCollins UK, One More Chapter and NetGalley for this advanced reader copy of "Fairest" out on February 13 2026.
Our female protagonist is named Niamh-pronounced in Old Irish as Nee-v(which means bright or radiant). I think this is extremely clever and absolutely ties into the story later.
Niamh is a sweet and innocent human that gets thrown into the dark underworld of the Unseelie Court completely oblivious that she's bffs with "The Hunters" sister (Rose). This friendship over the course of 4 years propels her into absolute chaos, with twists I did not see coming at all.
This book grabbed me from about 10% in and I just didn't want to put it down. The characters were all intriguing and I can see how this could be a successful standalone franchise with interconnected stories. I want to know more! Give me Matt and Rose's book next!!!!
🌶️🌶️🌶️
TROPES:
Touch her and die
Age gap
Best friend’s brother
Slowburn
Mafia
Forbidden romance
Possessive MMC
Our female protagonist is named Niamh-pronounced in Old Irish as Nee-v(which means bright or radiant). I think this is extremely clever and absolutely ties into the story later.
Niamh is a sweet and innocent human that gets thrown into the dark underworld of the Unseelie Court completely oblivious that she's bffs with "The Hunters" sister (Rose). This friendship over the course of 4 years propels her into absolute chaos, with twists I did not see coming at all.
This book grabbed me from about 10% in and I just didn't want to put it down. The characters were all intriguing and I can see how this could be a successful standalone franchise with interconnected stories. I want to know more! Give me Matt and Rose's book next!!!!
🌶️🌶️🌶️
TROPES:
Touch her and die
Age gap
Best friend’s brother
Slowburn
Mafia
Forbidden romance
Possessive MMC
December 10, 2025
This is one of those stories that pulls you in with a whisper and keeps you spellbound until the very last page. The writing is gorgeous, lyrical without ever feeling heavy and the atmosphere is rich with fairy-tale magic, shadows, and a touch of danger. I was completely captivated by the world the author created.
The characters are beautifully crafted, full of depth, flaws, and quiet strength. Their relationships, their secrets, and the slow-burn tension between them made the story impossible to put down. Every emotional moment hit exactly where it needed to.
What I loved most is how it felt both familiar and fresh, like a darker, more grown-up fairy tale you’ve somehow always known. The twists were clever, the pacing smooth, and the ending left me satisfied yet wanting more of this world.
If you love atmospheric fantasy, morally gray characters, and stories that balance beauty with darkness, Fairest is an absolute must-read.
The characters are beautifully crafted, full of depth, flaws, and quiet strength. Their relationships, their secrets, and the slow-burn tension between them made the story impossible to put down. Every emotional moment hit exactly where it needed to.
What I loved most is how it felt both familiar and fresh, like a darker, more grown-up fairy tale you’ve somehow always known. The twists were clever, the pacing smooth, and the ending left me satisfied yet wanting more of this world.
If you love atmospheric fantasy, morally gray characters, and stories that balance beauty with darkness, Fairest is an absolute must-read.
December 18, 2025
4.5 Yes. All of it was an absolute yes. From the first chapter I was drawn in and not once did that change, causing me to finish the book in two sittings. I did go into this book expecting there to be a lot more smut than there was and while that wasn't really the case I will say that the smut that was in the book definitely was...smutty. There was an absolutely exquisite yearning/tension between Cillian and Niamh which made my heart so happy because I am 100% a tension girly. To top the whole thing off all I have to say is....that chase scene in the woods.....perfect. I don't even care that the chase didn't end with them, eh hem, together. The tension and longing that were described made it great. I would love to see more books set in this world but I'm also very happy with the end if the author chooses not to continue. I will for sure be picking this up on release to add to my shelves and be keeping an eye out for more books written by her.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Ah, so the whole way through this book I have been wondering how I’m going to rate it!
I enjoyed the Snow White retelling and enjoyed the links. I thought they were appropriate and not just flung into the story. I enjoyed Cillian and the dual POV. I mostly liked Niamh (I think I’m just in my ‘needing a badass FMC’ era). The plot was well balanced with the romance and spicy moments.
I think I understood what was going on for the most part but I didn’t fully understand the magic system or who was who. I didn’t always enjoy the writing style - I’m not sure how to really describe my issue with it so I’m going to say that it’s just a personal preference. It sometimes went on and on and I lost interest or didn’t follow what was happening.
I enjoyed Fairest overall, it had some merits for sure. I’m not sure if I’d come back for book 2 sadly.
Thank you NetGalley and One More Chapter for the opportunity to read this ARC. #NetGalley #Fairest
I enjoyed the Snow White retelling and enjoyed the links. I thought they were appropriate and not just flung into the story. I enjoyed Cillian and the dual POV. I mostly liked Niamh (I think I’m just in my ‘needing a badass FMC’ era). The plot was well balanced with the romance and spicy moments.
I think I understood what was going on for the most part but I didn’t fully understand the magic system or who was who. I didn’t always enjoy the writing style - I’m not sure how to really describe my issue with it so I’m going to say that it’s just a personal preference. It sometimes went on and on and I lost interest or didn’t follow what was happening.
I enjoyed Fairest overall, it had some merits for sure. I’m not sure if I’d come back for book 2 sadly.
Thank you NetGalley and One More Chapter for the opportunity to read this ARC. #NetGalley #Fairest
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Fairest is a beautifully written fantasy that blends magic, romance, and intrigue into a compelling, immersive story. Mairi MacMillan crafts a world that feels vibrant and alive, with rich details and a sense of wonder that draws you in from the very first page.
The characters are layered and relatable, with motivations and emotions that feel authentic. The romance unfolds naturally and adds emotional depth, complementing the story rather than overshadowing it. Themes of identity, power, and choice are explored thoughtfully, giving the narrative both heart and substance.
MacMillan’s writing is lyrical yet accessible, balancing tension, magical elements, and heartfelt moments seamlessly. Fairest is perfect for readers who enjoy enchanting fantasy worlds, strong character-driven plots, and romance with a touch of magic.
A captivating and enchanting read that lingers long after the final page. ✨🌿
The characters are layered and relatable, with motivations and emotions that feel authentic. The romance unfolds naturally and adds emotional depth, complementing the story rather than overshadowing it. Themes of identity, power, and choice are explored thoughtfully, giving the narrative both heart and substance.
MacMillan’s writing is lyrical yet accessible, balancing tension, magical elements, and heartfelt moments seamlessly. Fairest is perfect for readers who enjoy enchanting fantasy worlds, strong character-driven plots, and romance with a touch of magic.
A captivating and enchanting read that lingers long after the final page. ✨🌿
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