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Dark Inheritance Trilogy #2
Wicked and the Damned
Win a free print copy of this book!
12 days and 02:52:59
5 copies available
U.S. only
In the exhilarating second romantasy novel in Rebecca Robinson’s Dark Inheritance Trilogy, a fiery couple forced apart must navigate a deadly maze of politics and power to reunite across a continent at war.
Torn from her husband Reid’s arms and dragged back to her homeland in chains, Vaasa is no longer a ruler, but a political pawn. Now under the control of Ozik—a cunning Zetyr witch with a stranglehold on her magic—she faces annulment, forced betrothal, and a kingdom that no longer feels like her own. As Ozik’s machinations aim to install himself as the true power behind the Asteryan throne, Vaasa is forced to take part in his game.
Meanwhile, across the continent, Reid is done playing politics. But waging war is never simple, and a soldier’s fury cannot stand up against Icruria’s bureaucracy. With allies fading and time slipping away, Reid may have no choice but to infiltrate Asterya on his own to find the woman he loves and bring her home.
As Vaasa’s magic begins to flare, she desperately seeks control, even if Ozik is the only one who can offer it. She then finds a cryptic final message from her mother about a precious missing necklace that might just be the answer to finally freeing her magic from Ozik. Yet when a ghost from Vaasa’s past reemerges among the suitors vying for her hand, escape might be within reach—but will it demand a betrayal that real love may not survive?
Torn from her husband Reid’s arms and dragged back to her homeland in chains, Vaasa is no longer a ruler, but a political pawn. Now under the control of Ozik—a cunning Zetyr witch with a stranglehold on her magic—she faces annulment, forced betrothal, and a kingdom that no longer feels like her own. As Ozik’s machinations aim to install himself as the true power behind the Asteryan throne, Vaasa is forced to take part in his game.
Meanwhile, across the continent, Reid is done playing politics. But waging war is never simple, and a soldier’s fury cannot stand up against Icruria’s bureaucracy. With allies fading and time slipping away, Reid may have no choice but to infiltrate Asterya on his own to find the woman he loves and bring her home.
As Vaasa’s magic begins to flare, she desperately seeks control, even if Ozik is the only one who can offer it. She then finds a cryptic final message from her mother about a precious missing necklace that might just be the answer to finally freeing her magic from Ozik. Yet when a ghost from Vaasa’s past reemerges among the suitors vying for her hand, escape might be within reach—but will it demand a betrayal that real love may not survive?
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First published February 24, 2026
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About the author
Rebecca Robinson
2 books1,271 followersBy day, Rebecca Robinson works as a high school administrator. By night, she’s an avid reader, writer, and consumer of all things art. When she’s not writing, Rebecca loves to cook, spend time with her husband and son, and lounge in the garden with her husky.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 546 reviews
November 2, 2025
Thank you Netgalley and Saga Press/S&S Saga Press for an ARC of this book!
I'm not going to lie I requested this book because it was so beautiful at first & I didn't realize at first it was part of a series. So I did need to read the first book before this one (The Serpent and the Wolf) and I'm in a complete chokehold. I'm starting to think I don't actually need to take a step back from fantasy. I think my fantasy palete has just been refining itself. The last couple fantasy books i've read have made me feel like a kid falling in love with reading all over again, and this series is no exception. If anything it's at the top of the list. Reading this series has thus far made me feel as if I discovered the Magic Tree House. I mean, you truly are teleported to a different dimension with this one and it's rather marvelous. Personally I can not wait to add hardcopies of this to my collection. It's also one of those reads that leaves you wondering just how rigged the "Booktok" world is, because HOW is this not absolutely everywhere?! HOW!?
Until next time,
Hades
🩵
I'm not going to lie I requested this book because it was so beautiful at first & I didn't realize at first it was part of a series. So I did need to read the first book before this one (The Serpent and the Wolf) and I'm in a complete chokehold. I'm starting to think I don't actually need to take a step back from fantasy. I think my fantasy palete has just been refining itself. The last couple fantasy books i've read have made me feel like a kid falling in love with reading all over again, and this series is no exception. If anything it's at the top of the list. Reading this series has thus far made me feel as if I discovered the Magic Tree House. I mean, you truly are teleported to a different dimension with this one and it's rather marvelous. Personally I can not wait to add hardcopies of this to my collection. It's also one of those reads that leaves you wondering just how rigged the "Booktok" world is, because HOW is this not absolutely everywhere?! HOW!?
Until next time,
Hades
🩵
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
4 stars — a good follow-up to book one
review tk closer to pub day!
review tk closer to pub day!
March 9, 2026
“Hero or villain, hero or villain…It was a two-faced coin, and she didn’t know which side she had landed on.”
This is one of those books in the series where enduring pain feels like a prerequisite for earning happiness. To avoid spoilers for either book I’m going to be vague, but Vaasa finds herself back “home” in Mekës, the capital of Asterya, without any true allies.
If the goal of Vaasa’s character arc in the first book was to rewire her ability to open up to trust in faith and love, this next is designed to test every fragile thread of trust she worked so hard to weave. To stretch those new tethers to Reid and her coven and see how far they can stretch without breaking.
Vaasa is vulnerability and hope wrapped in calculating cynicism with a healthy side of vengeance. She is one of those characters that I could have disliked in the first book for how steadfastly she rejected kindness from Reid and the coven. For how stubbornly she clung to isolation. But the immensity of her struggle allowed me to appreciate how much she grew when she finally chose to accept her place among them as an equal and ally. And this second book brings her back to isolation and reinforces the reason she held onto the idea that she couldn’t trust anyone but herself. To see her fragile trust in others tested to a breaking point feels like pouring salt in a wound.
And so the politics continue. Not just the politics of two countries’ opposing ideals and battle over resources. The politics of being a woman, an heiress, whose power belongs to whichever man can claim her. The politics of knowing when to lie, and how much truth to offer in order to manipulate others to get what you want. The politics of deciding how much soul is worth bargaining away in order to fight for love. The politics of choosing between power and love, and realizing that choosing one may negate the other.
One of the things I love about this series is how it explores the strategies people use to manipulate each other in political games. That the consequences of war are not always as obvious as the bloodshed on a battlefield.
I also don’t want this review to sound like total despair. Vaasa and Reid’s dynamic, while suffering from a different kind of tension than the first book, ramps up the heat (the good kind) and demands more trust. And the found family, including new and old friends, proves loyalty from true friends is actually worth the risk of believing in them.
It’s hard for me to single out an overarching theme in this story aside from the fact that chasing power can overshadow any good intentions you started with. Vaasa knows how to pretend and play politics, and she still finds herself blindsided by her past and people she once trusted. She ultimately has to circle back and use her faith in Reid and her coven along with her intuition to navigate a dangerous political game.
4.5 ⭐️’s Kindle & Audiobook
This is one of those books in the series where enduring pain feels like a prerequisite for earning happiness. To avoid spoilers for either book I’m going to be vague, but Vaasa finds herself back “home” in Mekës, the capital of Asterya, without any true allies.
If the goal of Vaasa’s character arc in the first book was to rewire her ability to open up to trust in faith and love, this next is designed to test every fragile thread of trust she worked so hard to weave. To stretch those new tethers to Reid and her coven and see how far they can stretch without breaking.
Vaasa is vulnerability and hope wrapped in calculating cynicism with a healthy side of vengeance. She is one of those characters that I could have disliked in the first book for how steadfastly she rejected kindness from Reid and the coven. For how stubbornly she clung to isolation. But the immensity of her struggle allowed me to appreciate how much she grew when she finally chose to accept her place among them as an equal and ally. And this second book brings her back to isolation and reinforces the reason she held onto the idea that she couldn’t trust anyone but herself. To see her fragile trust in others tested to a breaking point feels like pouring salt in a wound.
And so the politics continue. Not just the politics of two countries’ opposing ideals and battle over resources. The politics of being a woman, an heiress, whose power belongs to whichever man can claim her. The politics of knowing when to lie, and how much truth to offer in order to manipulate others to get what you want. The politics of deciding how much soul is worth bargaining away in order to fight for love. The politics of choosing between power and love, and realizing that choosing one may negate the other.
One of the things I love about this series is how it explores the strategies people use to manipulate each other in political games. That the consequences of war are not always as obvious as the bloodshed on a battlefield.
I also don’t want this review to sound like total despair. Vaasa and Reid’s dynamic, while suffering from a different kind of tension than the first book, ramps up the heat (the good kind) and demands more trust. And the found family, including new and old friends, proves loyalty from true friends is actually worth the risk of believing in them.
It’s hard for me to single out an overarching theme in this story aside from the fact that chasing power can overshadow any good intentions you started with. Vaasa knows how to pretend and play politics, and she still finds herself blindsided by her past and people she once trusted. She ultimately has to circle back and use her faith in Reid and her coven along with her intuition to navigate a dangerous political game.
4.5 ⭐️’s Kindle & Audiobook
February 27, 2026
This kept me constantly on the edge of my seat, rife with scheming, unwavering longing, and palpable tension. I was completely hooked on every word and the ending was heart-stopping.
The plotting and connections that came together to reveal the bigger picture had me reeling. I was so zeroed in on the story and filled with endless anticipation. I love this world and characters so much, especially now being more invested in them, everything felt so heightened. The anxiety was relentless!
Reid is one of my absolute favourite MMCs. He adores, trusts and respects Vaasa so immensely; she’s his compass, and he’d burn everything down to get to her. 🫠 He’s confident but not cocky and has been real with Vaasa from the START and is ruthless with his enemies but a big teddy bear with those he loves.
Vaasa has incredible strength and resilience and will also sacrifice and endure whatever it takes to get to Reid and make things right in her kingdom. Using her political skills to weave and sow her way through the system and take it down from the inside. I just love them both so much. I really felt for Vaasa in this; she was living a nightmare, and her emotion was tangible.
There is something about Vaasa and Reid’s connection that resonates so strongly and feels so natural and alive within the story. It’s unquestionable and makes me believe in it and them 100%.
Also THE MAGIC IN THIS?!! I thought the powers that Vaasa and the other witches displayed in the finale of the first book was insane but this was on a whole other level. My jaw was on the floor.
Ugh, I already know the last book is going to destroy me.
-
I am so ready. The cliff-hanger ending of TSATW was diabolical.
Reid, GO GET YOUR GIRL 😭
The plotting and connections that came together to reveal the bigger picture had me reeling. I was so zeroed in on the story and filled with endless anticipation. I love this world and characters so much, especially now being more invested in them, everything felt so heightened. The anxiety was relentless!
Reid is one of my absolute favourite MMCs. He adores, trusts and respects Vaasa so immensely; she’s his compass, and he’d burn everything down to get to her. 🫠 He’s confident but not cocky and has been real with Vaasa from the START and is ruthless with his enemies but a big teddy bear with those he loves.
Vaasa has incredible strength and resilience and will also sacrifice and endure whatever it takes to get to Reid and make things right in her kingdom. Using her political skills to weave and sow her way through the system and take it down from the inside. I just love them both so much. I really felt for Vaasa in this; she was living a nightmare, and her emotion was tangible.
There is something about Vaasa and Reid’s connection that resonates so strongly and feels so natural and alive within the story. It’s unquestionable and makes me believe in it and them 100%.
Also THE MAGIC IN THIS?!! I thought the powers that Vaasa and the other witches displayed in the finale of the first book was insane but this was on a whole other level. My jaw was on the floor.
Ugh, I already know the last book is going to destroy me.
-
I am so ready. The cliff-hanger ending of TSATW was diabolical.
Reid, GO GET YOUR GIRL 😭
February 28, 2026
4.25⭐️
First off, thank you to Saga Press, NetGalley and Rebecca Robinson for the advanced eARC!
Wow. I somehow loved this even more than book one. I felt so much more connected to the characters this time around, and the action and plot really kicked up a notch. From the very first chapters, I was pulled right back into the scheming, the tension, and the constant high stakes.
While the first book felt a bit slow and occasionally confusing, this sequel felt more focused and immersive. The added depth and perspectives made the world clearer and the emotional beats hit harder. I found myself way more invested in where everything was heading.
I loved Vaasa and Reid even more this time around. Vaasa truly shines; she’s sharper, more cunning, and her female rage is *chef’s kiss*. Watching her grow into her magic and gain a better understanding of her power was so satisfying, and it absolutely pays off. Even though Reid isn’t as present throughout, I really appreciated the glimpses into his perspective. And when they are together? Completely electric.
This sequel delivered on character growth, tension, and momentum. I’m very excited (and a little nervous) to see how the author wraps up this series!
First off, thank you to Saga Press, NetGalley and Rebecca Robinson for the advanced eARC!
Wow. I somehow loved this even more than book one. I felt so much more connected to the characters this time around, and the action and plot really kicked up a notch. From the very first chapters, I was pulled right back into the scheming, the tension, and the constant high stakes.
While the first book felt a bit slow and occasionally confusing, this sequel felt more focused and immersive. The added depth and perspectives made the world clearer and the emotional beats hit harder. I found myself way more invested in where everything was heading.
I loved Vaasa and Reid even more this time around. Vaasa truly shines; she’s sharper, more cunning, and her female rage is *chef’s kiss*. Watching her grow into her magic and gain a better understanding of her power was so satisfying, and it absolutely pays off. Even though Reid isn’t as present throughout, I really appreciated the glimpses into his perspective. And when they are together? Completely electric.
This sequel delivered on character growth, tension, and momentum. I’m very excited (and a little nervous) to see how the author wraps up this series!
March 10, 2026
4.0 ★— The Serpent and the Wolf was one of my top romantasy reads of 2024, using the arranged marriage trope to perfection, in my opinion! And that book left me on a cliffhanger I was basically waiting on tenterhooks to see resolved.
After finishing this sequel, I feel a little conflicted about the ultimate satisfaction I felt at watching it all come together here.
There are a few aspects I really loved, but also some that I felt fell a bit by the wayside here. One thing I really adored was how strong Vaasa continued to be, and how her strength and endurance that were set up in the first book seamlessly carried over here. I also really enjoyed that we got to see her learn more about her powers and finally get more of a background on her family life, especially her mother, who was a character the first book didn't give much information on.
What didn’t work for me was the romance, surprisingly. I went into this with some expectations. With Vaasa sacrificing her safety and freedom at the end of book one for Reid, I was ready to see him go out of his mind with anger, worry, and fear over her being gone. I mean, that’s what a heroine’s abduction in a romance really calls for, right? If the FMC sacrifices herself right under her love interest’s nose, isn’t that the perfect moment for all the angsty pain and fear to be put on display, so that I as a reader can bask in all the angsty glory and anxious yearning?
And while we do get a bit of this through Reid’s POV, it all felt very muted and kind of left me selfishly wanting him to just… maybe suffer a little more? Or for there to be more drama?
Don’t get me wrong, I still enjoyed it and thought the world was fleshed out in a way that gave more insight and broadened the book’s scope in a really great way. And I still think that Reid and Vaasa are a solid power couple. I just think this book could have used a teensy bit more angst to really top it all off.
But still, I’m really excited to read the next book in the series and to see Vaasa navigate the choices she’s made at the end!
_____________
Thank you to Simon & Schuster for the gifted copy.
After finishing this sequel, I feel a little conflicted about the ultimate satisfaction I felt at watching it all come together here.
There are a few aspects I really loved, but also some that I felt fell a bit by the wayside here. One thing I really adored was how strong Vaasa continued to be, and how her strength and endurance that were set up in the first book seamlessly carried over here. I also really enjoyed that we got to see her learn more about her powers and finally get more of a background on her family life, especially her mother, who was a character the first book didn't give much information on.
What didn’t work for me was the romance, surprisingly. I went into this with some expectations. With Vaasa sacrificing her safety and freedom at the end of book one for Reid, I was ready to see him go out of his mind with anger, worry, and fear over her being gone. I mean, that’s what a heroine’s abduction in a romance really calls for, right? If the FMC sacrifices herself right under her love interest’s nose, isn’t that the perfect moment for all the angsty pain and fear to be put on display, so that I as a reader can bask in all the angsty glory and anxious yearning?
And while we do get a bit of this through Reid’s POV, it all felt very muted and kind of left me selfishly wanting him to just… maybe suffer a little more? Or for there to be more drama?
Don’t get me wrong, I still enjoyed it and thought the world was fleshed out in a way that gave more insight and broadened the book’s scope in a really great way. And I still think that Reid and Vaasa are a solid power couple. I just think this book could have used a teensy bit more angst to really top it all off.
But still, I’m really excited to read the next book in the series and to see Vaasa navigate the choices she’s made at the end!
_____________
Thank you to Simon & Schuster for the gifted copy.
February 24, 2026
This is the second book in the Dark Inheritance Trilogy and while I liked the firs book better, this was still a fun read. As with the first book I'm going to say again that I wish I would have waited to start this series until it is complete because I feel like I would be more compelled to continue if I knew I could finish without having to wait in between books. As it stands, while I had fun reading both books, I'm not sure that I will continue this series because I don't feel as attached to the characters as I did in the first book. This installment leaves us with many questions, which is the intent but I don't know that I'm interested enough in finding out the answers. I think if you enjoyed the fist book, you will still like this one as there is plenty of story progression and good character growth.
Thank you NetGalley and Saga Press | S&S/Saga Press for access to the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Pub Date: 2/24/26
Thank you NetGalley and Saga Press | S&S/Saga Press for access to the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Pub Date: 2/24/26
arc-tbr
November 6, 2025
Want to read
October 3, 2025October 2025
OMG THIS COVER IS SO PRETTY 😭
February 2026 can't come soon enough!!!
Also the audiobook comes out the same day as the book! I'M SO THANKFUL ♡
___________
June 2025
SOMEONE PLEASE TELL ME THE AUDIOBOOK IS GOING TO BE AVAILABLE ON RELEASE DAY! I'm like an addict just waiting for their next fix when it comes to this book. The sheer number of times I've caught myself going on Amazon looking for the next book has been ridiculous. The withdrawal I've had ever since I finished book #1 cannot be put into words. I've been on the lookout for this announcement ever since I finished the first one. Please, someone, put me out of my misery 😭
OMG THIS COVER IS SO PRETTY 😭
February 2026 can't come soon enough!!!
Also the audiobook comes out the same day as the book! I'M SO THANKFUL ♡
___________
June 2025
SOMEONE PLEASE TELL ME THE AUDIOBOOK IS GOING TO BE AVAILABLE ON RELEASE DAY! I'm like an addict just waiting for their next fix when it comes to this book. The sheer number of times I've caught myself going on Amazon looking for the next book has been ridiculous. The withdrawal I've had ever since I finished book #1 cannot be put into words. I've been on the lookout for this announcement ever since I finished the first one. Please, someone, put me out of my misery 😭
January 29, 2026
4-4.5⭐️
This is a STUNNING continuation!!
I was so happy to be back in this world and absolutely it delivered!
This book is so much more darker and it really made me feel like I was inside. I love how we got deeper into the world and got a bigger picture of the characters!
I thought the pacing was fabulous, plenty of detail but also not in slow motion 😂
I can’t recommend this series enough! It’s def a forever favorite 💜
This is a STUNNING continuation!!
I was so happy to be back in this world and absolutely it delivered!
This book is so much more darker and it really made me feel like I was inside. I love how we got deeper into the world and got a bigger picture of the characters!
I thought the pacing was fabulous, plenty of detail but also not in slow motion 😂
I can’t recommend this series enough! It’s def a forever favorite 💜
March 2, 2026
Wow! This is a second book slow burn romance done right!
In keeping with Vaasa’s bargain to save Reid’s life, she travels back home with her magic tethered to Ozik. The only way he allows her magic back is by obeying his commands. The first of which is to find a new husband. Meanwhile, Reid must fight and make unlikely alliances all to get Vaasa back to him.
The Wicked and the Damned picks up very soon after the end of book 1. The world is expanded nicely, with more political intrigue, new characters, and information about the gods and magic. The scheming keeps you guessing about how everything will unfold.
I was nervous about Vaasa and Reid being separated in this book since that isn’t something I normally like but the yearning made me enjoy their moments together so much more. Vaasa absolutely shines in this book with her intelligence and resilience on display. Reid continues to be the loving protector we’ve all fallen for. They are quickly becoming a favorite couple of mine.
The epilogue has left me so intrigued. This book seems to have a lot of setup for what’s to come and I can’t wait to see what happens next!
Thank you to NetGalley and Saga Press for the advanced copy.
In keeping with Vaasa’s bargain to save Reid’s life, she travels back home with her magic tethered to Ozik. The only way he allows her magic back is by obeying his commands. The first of which is to find a new husband. Meanwhile, Reid must fight and make unlikely alliances all to get Vaasa back to him.
The Wicked and the Damned picks up very soon after the end of book 1. The world is expanded nicely, with more political intrigue, new characters, and information about the gods and magic. The scheming keeps you guessing about how everything will unfold.
I was nervous about Vaasa and Reid being separated in this book since that isn’t something I normally like but the yearning made me enjoy their moments together so much more. Vaasa absolutely shines in this book with her intelligence and resilience on display. Reid continues to be the loving protector we’ve all fallen for. They are quickly becoming a favorite couple of mine.
The epilogue has left me so intrigued. This book seems to have a lot of setup for what’s to come and I can’t wait to see what happens next!
Thank you to NetGalley and Saga Press for the advanced copy.
October 2, 2025
politics juicier than the peaches that Belly bites into in the summer I turned pretty
✰ 4.5 stars, because no combination of psychiatric medications could have adequately sedated me during the absolute panic that I experienced in the last 100 pages, but also half star deducted because Vaasa is definitely the brains of the relationship lol
source: netgalley ebook arc
✰ 4.5 stars, because no combination of psychiatric medications could have adequately sedated me during the absolute panic that I experienced in the last 100 pages, but also half star deducted because Vaasa is definitely the brains of the relationship lol
source: netgalley ebook arc
February 16, 2026
Omg. This sequel epitomizes the phrase “Did I finish the book, or did it finish me?” This book moves FAST but manages to still feel well paced and thought out, with hints strewn about just enough to leave me feeling surprised but not confused. I love the new characters introduced in this book as well as how fleshed out both Reid and Vaasa become throughout their arcs. Rebecca Robinson also knows how to write a good villain, and an excellent morally grey cast. I think this sequel even outshines how much I loved the first installment. Thank you to Saga Press for this ARC (and the emotional devastation).
February 10, 2026
The Wicked and the Damned is a solid continuation of the Dark Inheritance trilogy, filled with political tension, shifting alliances, and a slow-burn romance.
Vaasa continues to impress me with her resilience. She faces impossible circumstances yet refuses to be powerless, and I loved seeing more growth from her character. The world expands nicely in this installment, introducing new players and raising the stakes for what’s clearly building toward a big next chapter.
This felt like a more transitional book for me one that focuses on setup and strategy rather than constant momentum but it kept me invested in both the characters and the overall story.
If you enjoy romantasy with strong political elements and an enduring love story, this is definitely worth continuing the series. Thanks to Saga Press for the gifted ARC
Vaasa continues to impress me with her resilience. She faces impossible circumstances yet refuses to be powerless, and I loved seeing more growth from her character. The world expands nicely in this installment, introducing new players and raising the stakes for what’s clearly building toward a big next chapter.
This felt like a more transitional book for me one that focuses on setup and strategy rather than constant momentum but it kept me invested in both the characters and the overall story.
If you enjoy romantasy with strong political elements and an enduring love story, this is definitely worth continuing the series. Thanks to Saga Press for the gifted ARC
February 27, 2026
Dare I say “eh”? 2.5 stars. I really enjoyed the first book but this dragged. There was still quite a bit of political intrigue but it almost felt like Vassa wasn’t really in it (emotionally, mentally etc). I distinctly recall her being a bolder, braver character by the end of the first book and she seems to have regressed in this one? I don’t think saying “fuck you” to her captors every now and then really saves anything for her character.
Additionally it feels like the plot could’ve been condensed significantly. At the end of the day, this felt like a bit of placeholder. Perhaps I will look back on it more fondly by the third book but right now I’m really not finding Reid nor Vassa, nor their relationship, particularly grabbing anymore.
Don’t get me started on Vassa and Roman. Them interacting made me hate the both of them every time.
Additionally it feels like the plot could’ve been condensed significantly. At the end of the day, this felt like a bit of placeholder. Perhaps I will look back on it more fondly by the third book but right now I’m really not finding Reid nor Vassa, nor their relationship, particularly grabbing anymore.
Don’t get me started on Vassa and Roman. Them interacting made me hate the both of them every time.
February 23, 2026
The Dark Inheritance trilogy continues to astound! The Wicked and the Damned is a worthy, terrific sequel to one of the best romantasy reads I came to know last year, The Serpent and the Wolf. This next installment picks up right where we left us, Vaasa and Reid remain separated but desperate to find each other again. This work brings angst, triumph, heartache, wild twists, and hearty swoons, but in what order...you'll have to read to find out!
I continue to adore and admire the resilient and undaunted Vaasa. My heart hurt so much for how she first began this next part of the journey. Downtrodden in every sense, yet her heart remained unyielding. Then we have Reid, determined to get his wife back. I find these two similar in many ways, they will take down any hurdle in their way to find each other again. Reid will use his might, and Vaasa her mind. I never once lost focus and belief in their love and connection, and the assurance nothing can ever stand in the way of their shared goals.
A strength of this work is seeing Vaasa navigate the political court, there is much scheming and strategizing. While I'd consider it a strength, I also must confess that in the middle it created a sort of lull in my engagement. I do think it's absolutely necessary in the narrative, but it also slowed the pace more than I would prefer. I also confess that while I absolutely, positively understand the need to keep our leads separated, that separation made me realize how much of their shared page time in the first book was a significant reason in my love of it. So I did miss that.
That said! That said...WOAH that final act! Total excellence. My jaw was simply left on the floor for the entirety of it. The final act swoops you into so much happening, in the best way possible, and leaves you in complete excited anticipation for the final book.
While I did not feel this work hit the same seamless stride as in the first work, it remains an exceptionally solid series that continues to captivate me. I finished this one at the ready for book 3!
I'll certainly be in line, eagerly awaiting the grand finale!
Thank you Saga Press and NetGalley for this complimentary eARC, I leave this honest review voluntarily.
I continue to adore and admire the resilient and undaunted Vaasa. My heart hurt so much for how she first began this next part of the journey. Downtrodden in every sense, yet her heart remained unyielding. Then we have Reid, determined to get his wife back. I find these two similar in many ways, they will take down any hurdle in their way to find each other again. Reid will use his might, and Vaasa her mind. I never once lost focus and belief in their love and connection, and the assurance nothing can ever stand in the way of their shared goals.
A strength of this work is seeing Vaasa navigate the political court, there is much scheming and strategizing. While I'd consider it a strength, I also must confess that in the middle it created a sort of lull in my engagement. I do think it's absolutely necessary in the narrative, but it also slowed the pace more than I would prefer. I also confess that while I absolutely, positively understand the need to keep our leads separated, that separation made me realize how much of their shared page time in the first book was a significant reason in my love of it. So I did miss that.
That said! That said...WOAH that final act! Total excellence. My jaw was simply left on the floor for the entirety of it. The final act swoops you into so much happening, in the best way possible, and leaves you in complete excited anticipation for the final book.
While I did not feel this work hit the same seamless stride as in the first work, it remains an exceptionally solid series that continues to captivate me. I finished this one at the ready for book 3!
I'll certainly be in line, eagerly awaiting the grand finale!
Thank you Saga Press and NetGalley for this complimentary eARC, I leave this honest review voluntarily.
February 23, 2026
Thank you @sagapressbooks @simon.audio for the ARC/ALC ♡ also thank you to my buddy read group for the chats along the way!
The first book in this trilogy was one of my fave enemies to lovers romantasies in 2024! It had me salivating for the next installment so I jumped at the opportunity to read it early.
As far as a review, nothing will make sense until you’ve read the first one, but I will say that this was a satisfying middle book, that didn’t end on a huge cliffhanger like the prior book.
I did need some reminding of the magic system and the characters at the beginning as we are just dropped right into the thick of things. However by 20% I felt locked in and loaded.
One of my fave things about this series is that the main character and some of the villains are morally grey, working the politics from all angles and keeping the reader guessing as to their true intentions.
▶︎ •၊၊||၊|။||။|• 🎧🙈 I got engrossed in the story and decided to finish it in print. However some of my buddy read group listened to the audio and praised that format!
The first book in this trilogy was one of my fave enemies to lovers romantasies in 2024! It had me salivating for the next installment so I jumped at the opportunity to read it early.
As far as a review, nothing will make sense until you’ve read the first one, but I will say that this was a satisfying middle book, that didn’t end on a huge cliffhanger like the prior book.
I did need some reminding of the magic system and the characters at the beginning as we are just dropped right into the thick of things. However by 20% I felt locked in and loaded.
One of my fave things about this series is that the main character and some of the villains are morally grey, working the politics from all angles and keeping the reader guessing as to their true intentions.
▶︎ •၊၊||၊|။||။|• 🎧🙈 I got engrossed in the story and decided to finish it in print. However some of my buddy read group listened to the audio and praised that format!
February 24, 2026
A Dark, Twisting Journey That Deepens the Saga
The Wicked and the Damned by Rebecca Robinson is a powerful continuation of the story, delivering unexpected twists that kept me turning pages and second guessing everything I thought I knew. The plot takes bold turns that feel earned rather than shocking for the sake of it, and the darker tone adds real weight to the choices the characters are forced to make. Robinson excels at drawing the reader deeper into this world, making it easy to become fully immersed in the stakes and the emotional tension.
One of the strongest elements of this book is the character connection. The relationships feel authentic and layered, and I found myself genuinely invested in how each character evolved as the story unfolded. Their inner conflicts and emotional struggles are just as compelling as the external dangers they face. At times, I did wish for a bit more forward momentum, as certain sections lingered longer than necessary, but the depth of character development helped balance that pacing.
There are still a few plot threads left open from the first book, which may feel slightly frustrating in the moment, yet they clearly serve a larger purpose. Rather than detracting from the experience, these unresolved elements build anticipation and make the overall shaping of the trilogy feel intentional and ambitious. By the final page, I was already eager for the concluding book, knowing the payoff has the potential to be truly unforgettable. This is an easy five star read and a must for fans of dark, character driven fantasy.
I'm actually surprised this series isn't blowing up on the socials, this series is highly underrated!
Thank you to Saga Press | Simon and Schuster/Saga Press and Netgalley for the ARC copy of THE WICKED AND THE DAMNED in exchange for my honest review.
The Wicked and the Damned by Rebecca Robinson is a powerful continuation of the story, delivering unexpected twists that kept me turning pages and second guessing everything I thought I knew. The plot takes bold turns that feel earned rather than shocking for the sake of it, and the darker tone adds real weight to the choices the characters are forced to make. Robinson excels at drawing the reader deeper into this world, making it easy to become fully immersed in the stakes and the emotional tension.
One of the strongest elements of this book is the character connection. The relationships feel authentic and layered, and I found myself genuinely invested in how each character evolved as the story unfolded. Their inner conflicts and emotional struggles are just as compelling as the external dangers they face. At times, I did wish for a bit more forward momentum, as certain sections lingered longer than necessary, but the depth of character development helped balance that pacing.
There are still a few plot threads left open from the first book, which may feel slightly frustrating in the moment, yet they clearly serve a larger purpose. Rather than detracting from the experience, these unresolved elements build anticipation and make the overall shaping of the trilogy feel intentional and ambitious. By the final page, I was already eager for the concluding book, knowing the payoff has the potential to be truly unforgettable. This is an easy five star read and a must for fans of dark, character driven fantasy.
I'm actually surprised this series isn't blowing up on the socials, this series is highly underrated!
Thank you to Saga Press | Simon and Schuster/Saga Press and Netgalley for the ARC copy of THE WICKED AND THE DAMNED in exchange for my honest review.
January 2, 2026
4/5 stars. Wow what a read. This was such a fun ride. I LOVE a political romantasy and this book, like book one, delivered in spades. In this book we continue where book one left off. Spoilers for book one up next. Vassa has just been kidnapped by Ozik and returned back to her home in Asterya. Vassa, after finally admitting her love to Reid, is broken and thrown into prison to be kept by Ozik, the same man who after falling in love with her mother, lead directly to her death. Admittedly this book did take me a good 25% to really get back into and I think that was mostly because Reid was largely absent from the book until approximately 40% into the story. I really liked the banter in book one between Vassa and Reid and did miss it in this book because they were not together for much of the story. I was able to get over it though because Vassa's character development and learning more about Ozick's back story was excellent.
Vassa, finding that her marriage with Reid had been annulled, found herself (again) forced into another marriage of political connivence. This time for the Asteryan empire, which is ready for her and her new betrothed to take over. since her brothers, untimely death. Obviously, Vassa is not interested in serving as another pawn in a political game in which she lacks ultimate control over her life choices and autonomy. So what does Vassa do, she plots, schemes, manipulates, and lies her way into getting back to Reid.
Reid sets out on a daring attempt to get Vassa back and return her to his side. Along the way Reid joins up with a band of pirates, willing to do anything to get his wife back. I love Reid, I really do, I wish there was a bit more of their relationship in this book but what we did get was top tier.
Things I love about this book, the scheming and political intrigue are what makes this book so gripping. Vassa is a true morally grey character and not just the type like "whoops, you tripped and fell on my sword and died" kind, the "slay your enemies and rip out their hearts" kind. Brutal because she was born and bread that way way and cunning and manipulative in order to survive. I also love that you meet her first love, Roman, where you spend the book trying to figure out his motives and like everyone you meet, has his own hidden agenda.
This book is a solid romantasy that really gives you something unique and memorable. I recommend this book to anyone who likes a good story driven romantasy with a forbidden magic, witches, a possessive and protective MMC, and some of the best political scheming and intrigue I have read in a long time.
Thank you to Saga Press and Netgalley for the advanced copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
Vassa, finding that her marriage with Reid had been annulled, found herself (again) forced into another marriage of political connivence. This time for the Asteryan empire, which is ready for her and her new betrothed to take over. since her brothers, untimely death. Obviously, Vassa is not interested in serving as another pawn in a political game in which she lacks ultimate control over her life choices and autonomy. So what does Vassa do, she plots, schemes, manipulates, and lies her way into getting back to Reid.
Reid sets out on a daring attempt to get Vassa back and return her to his side. Along the way Reid joins up with a band of pirates, willing to do anything to get his wife back. I love Reid, I really do, I wish there was a bit more of their relationship in this book but what we did get was top tier.
Things I love about this book, the scheming and political intrigue are what makes this book so gripping. Vassa is a true morally grey character and not just the type like "whoops, you tripped and fell on my sword and died" kind, the "slay your enemies and rip out their hearts" kind. Brutal because she was born and bread that way way and cunning and manipulative in order to survive. I also love that you meet her first love, Roman, where you spend the book trying to figure out his motives and like everyone you meet, has his own hidden agenda.
This book is a solid romantasy that really gives you something unique and memorable. I recommend this book to anyone who likes a good story driven romantasy with a forbidden magic, witches, a possessive and protective MMC, and some of the best political scheming and intrigue I have read in a long time.
Thank you to Saga Press and Netgalley for the advanced copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
February 12, 2026
Now that’s how you write a sequel! I’m so impressed and blown away by this thrilling sequel to one of my most unexpectedly enjoyable reads last year. All the character development and plot twists pay off in this book—it was utterly un-put-downable.
Picking up where we left off in book one, Vaasa and Reid are now separated after the events of book one. Trapped in Mekës, once her home but now a prison, Vaasa finds herself a political pawn at the whim of Ozik. She faces the annulment of her marriage to Reid and a new political marriage. But there are more secrets simmering beneath the surface with Ozik and his history with her mother. Meanwhile, Reid will do anything to rescue Vaasa, including making a deal with a pirate. He puts everything on the line to infiltrate Mekës and help his love.
Vaasa is one of my new favorite FMCs after this book. She is so complex and deep, her inner monologue is so compelling. She struggles with her identity outside of being a political pawn and refuses to be a tool. I think women throughout history and often today are relegated to such a fate. The push and pull of the Zetyr witches’ patriarchal magic and inheritance and the Veragi witches’ matriarchy by contrast is interesting to see unfold on the page. I’m really looking forward to exploring this plot further in the conclusion to this trilogy.
Reid is just the biggest green flag. I loved him even more in this book. He’s not just book boyfriend material, he’s book HUSBAND material. He too is layered and complex, truly a three-dimensional character. He took a backseat to Vaasa’s storyline this book but what we do get makes him so much more interesting. Their relationship is so beautiful and heartwarming. There’s just enough spicy time to keep things interesting as well!
The exploration of the magic system in this book was so fascinating. It’s unique and refreshing to read and I really enjoyed learning more about the Zetyr magic especially. The way Rebecca Robinson writes about Vaasa’s physical connection to her magic is so captivating and really brings it to life in the reader’s mind—it feels so well thought out.
Bottom line: let Rebecca cook! This book was a slam dunk and this series needs to be on your TBR if you enjoy a high-stakes, political romantasy with a unique magic system. 5⭐️ and 2🌶️ for one of my favorite sequels yet.
Immense gratitude and thanks to NetGalley and the publisher Saga Press for the wonderful opportunity to read and review this ARC. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Picking up where we left off in book one, Vaasa and Reid are now separated after the events of book one. Trapped in Mekës, once her home but now a prison, Vaasa finds herself a political pawn at the whim of Ozik. She faces the annulment of her marriage to Reid and a new political marriage. But there are more secrets simmering beneath the surface with Ozik and his history with her mother. Meanwhile, Reid will do anything to rescue Vaasa, including making a deal with a pirate. He puts everything on the line to infiltrate Mekës and help his love.
Vaasa is one of my new favorite FMCs after this book. She is so complex and deep, her inner monologue is so compelling. She struggles with her identity outside of being a political pawn and refuses to be a tool. I think women throughout history and often today are relegated to such a fate. The push and pull of the Zetyr witches’ patriarchal magic and inheritance and the Veragi witches’ matriarchy by contrast is interesting to see unfold on the page. I’m really looking forward to exploring this plot further in the conclusion to this trilogy.
Reid is just the biggest green flag. I loved him even more in this book. He’s not just book boyfriend material, he’s book HUSBAND material. He too is layered and complex, truly a three-dimensional character. He took a backseat to Vaasa’s storyline this book but what we do get makes him so much more interesting. Their relationship is so beautiful and heartwarming. There’s just enough spicy time to keep things interesting as well!
The exploration of the magic system in this book was so fascinating. It’s unique and refreshing to read and I really enjoyed learning more about the Zetyr magic especially. The way Rebecca Robinson writes about Vaasa’s physical connection to her magic is so captivating and really brings it to life in the reader’s mind—it feels so well thought out.
Bottom line: let Rebecca cook! This book was a slam dunk and this series needs to be on your TBR if you enjoy a high-stakes, political romantasy with a unique magic system. 5⭐️ and 2🌶️ for one of my favorite sequels yet.
Immense gratitude and thanks to NetGalley and the publisher Saga Press for the wonderful opportunity to read and review this ARC. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
February 19, 2026
This book had me on the edge of my seat the entire time! I definitely got my much needed dose of feminine rage, political intrigue, and the most precious MMC, Mr. Reid of Mireh 🫠🫠🫠
Thank you to Saga Press, the author, and NetGalley for the eARC of this book to read and review.
The FMC, Vaasalisa, deserves a round of applause for her political maneuvering and manipulation! I loved her growth and strength in this book. She fights both ghosts of her past and new condescending awful men, all while dealing with magical bargains and deities.
The MMC, Reid, is officially on my book boyfriend list!!! His concern and love for Vaasa completely melted me. The only complaint I have is I wanted soooo much more of him in this book. “Eyes on me, Wild One.” Swoon!!!
This book had the return of some well loved side characters from book 1, The Serpent and the Wolf, including Amalie, Melisina, and Koen. There were several new characters, including pirates and conceited, arrogant, abusive men. The deities even came out to play. I struggled to know who to trust!
The plot was fast paced and kept my attention the entire time. This book is like a puzzle I kept working to figure out until the very last few chapters!
The world building was perfection! I enjoyed the woven tapestry of social obligation, political posturing, and the quests for power. The burdens placed on women and their lack of power in society were clearly outlined. The women in this story were minimized, manipulated, and abused. They rightfully earned their rage and need for revenge. I enjoyed learning more about Vaasa’s mother and the reasoning for her choices. I also liked the magic/coven history in this book.
This book has spice, 🌶️🌶️
Overall, I loved this book just as much as book 1! I will definitely continue with this series and anxiously await book 3!
Thank you to Saga Press, the author, and NetGalley for the eARC of this book to read and review.
The FMC, Vaasalisa, deserves a round of applause for her political maneuvering and manipulation! I loved her growth and strength in this book. She fights both ghosts of her past and new condescending awful men, all while dealing with magical bargains and deities.
The MMC, Reid, is officially on my book boyfriend list!!! His concern and love for Vaasa completely melted me. The only complaint I have is I wanted soooo much more of him in this book. “Eyes on me, Wild One.” Swoon!!!
This book had the return of some well loved side characters from book 1, The Serpent and the Wolf, including Amalie, Melisina, and Koen. There were several new characters, including pirates and conceited, arrogant, abusive men. The deities even came out to play. I struggled to know who to trust!
The plot was fast paced and kept my attention the entire time. This book is like a puzzle I kept working to figure out until the very last few chapters!
The world building was perfection! I enjoyed the woven tapestry of social obligation, political posturing, and the quests for power. The burdens placed on women and their lack of power in society were clearly outlined. The women in this story were minimized, manipulated, and abused. They rightfully earned their rage and need for revenge. I enjoyed learning more about Vaasa’s mother and the reasoning for her choices. I also liked the magic/coven history in this book.
This book has spice, 🌶️🌶️
Overall, I loved this book just as much as book 1! I will definitely continue with this series and anxiously await book 3!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
4.5 Stars Rounded Up
The Wicked and the Damned is another amazing installment in the Dark Inheritance Trilogy by Rebecca Robinson. This book picks up where The Serpent and the Wolf left off and the continued world building creates such a rich setting. The magic and political intrigue that are further developed in this book kept me from ever wanting to put it down. The introduction of new characters was expertly done - some of them who I loved and furthered the found family elements of book one, and some who I loved to hate. Vaasa and Reid are one of my favorite romantasy couples. I cannot wait to read what happens in Book 3.
Thank you to NetGalley, Saga Press, and Rebecca Robinson for the eARC of The Wicked and The Damned.
The Wicked and the Damned is another amazing installment in the Dark Inheritance Trilogy by Rebecca Robinson. This book picks up where The Serpent and the Wolf left off and the continued world building creates such a rich setting. The magic and political intrigue that are further developed in this book kept me from ever wanting to put it down. The introduction of new characters was expertly done - some of them who I loved and furthered the found family elements of book one, and some who I loved to hate. Vaasa and Reid are one of my favorite romantasy couples. I cannot wait to read what happens in Book 3.
Thank you to NetGalley, Saga Press, and Rebecca Robinson for the eARC of The Wicked and The Damned.
September 27, 2025
This is the kind of book that makes me so incredibly thankful to be given ARCs, but also makes me despise being approved for them because this book hasn't even been released yet, which means the third installment is nowhere near publication.
I'll be over here crying until 2027, I suppose.
Thank you, NetGalley and Saga Press, for this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
I'll be over here crying until 2027, I suppose.
Thank you, NetGalley and Saga Press, for this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
February 13, 2026
Thank you to NetGalley, Saga Press, and Rebecca Robinson for the eARC of The Wicked and the Damned. I am so happy I got the opportunity to read this!
This is a very solid follow-up to Serpent & the Wolf! There is a ton going on in this book — Rebecca picked up the ball and just kept running. The pace is fast, there are new characters, new plot developments, surprises around every corner, and a lot more emotional trauma for our girl Vaasa. Some of the new characters are truly awful, and she absolutely gets put through the ringer. 😩
When the book starts, Vaasa is back in Asterya, separated from Reid, and she’s being forced by Ozik to marry a lord in order to secure an emperor for Asterya. We find her back in the exact same position she was in before — being controlled by power-hungry men. 😠 And like in the first book, she has to do whatever it takes to survive.
She has to revert back to the version of herself she worked so hard to overcome in book one, but what’s actually really beautiful about Vaasa’s character arc in this book is that she doesn’t let it truly change her. She uses it to empower herself and fight for the future she wants. And despite all the nonsense she’s put through in this book, she gets stronger — learning to control her magic in a way we haven’t seen yet. Not to mention, we get many instances of her using her intellect and cunning to get what she needs.
Meanwhile, Reid is on a mission to get his woman back, and with the help of Koen, Melisina, and some new friends, he makes it back to Asterya under the guise of being a bodyguard. Reid is without a doubt one of my favorite book boyfriends in the romantasy genre, and so naturally I wish we got more of him in this installment. Any time he was on the page, my heart was so happy, and I can’t wait to see what he does in book three!
One of my favorite aspects of this book was how Vaasa’s newfound family shows up for her and helps when she’s used to having to do everything alone. You really feel how desperately she needed that support and how grateful she is for her people. It truly helps heal her after being isolated, controlled, and manipulated for so long.
Overall, I enjoyed this book, but I still think I liked Serpent and the Wolf more — probably because there was more Reid time, but also because I was completely sucked into every page. Despite the new characters, expanded world-building, and twists and turns that kept the story action-packed, it didn’t grip me in quite the same way book one did. That being said, I still enjoyed it very much, and I’m definitely looking forward to reading the final book of the trilogy!
This is a very solid follow-up to Serpent & the Wolf! There is a ton going on in this book — Rebecca picked up the ball and just kept running. The pace is fast, there are new characters, new plot developments, surprises around every corner, and a lot more emotional trauma for our girl Vaasa. Some of the new characters are truly awful, and she absolutely gets put through the ringer. 😩
When the book starts, Vaasa is back in Asterya, separated from Reid, and she’s being forced by Ozik to marry a lord in order to secure an emperor for Asterya. We find her back in the exact same position she was in before — being controlled by power-hungry men. 😠 And like in the first book, she has to do whatever it takes to survive.
She has to revert back to the version of herself she worked so hard to overcome in book one, but what’s actually really beautiful about Vaasa’s character arc in this book is that she doesn’t let it truly change her. She uses it to empower herself and fight for the future she wants. And despite all the nonsense she’s put through in this book, she gets stronger — learning to control her magic in a way we haven’t seen yet. Not to mention, we get many instances of her using her intellect and cunning to get what she needs.
Meanwhile, Reid is on a mission to get his woman back, and with the help of Koen, Melisina, and some new friends, he makes it back to Asterya under the guise of being a bodyguard. Reid is without a doubt one of my favorite book boyfriends in the romantasy genre, and so naturally I wish we got more of him in this installment. Any time he was on the page, my heart was so happy, and I can’t wait to see what he does in book three!
One of my favorite aspects of this book was how Vaasa’s newfound family shows up for her and helps when she’s used to having to do everything alone. You really feel how desperately she needed that support and how grateful she is for her people. It truly helps heal her after being isolated, controlled, and manipulated for so long.
Overall, I enjoyed this book, but I still think I liked Serpent and the Wolf more — probably because there was more Reid time, but also because I was completely sucked into every page. Despite the new characters, expanded world-building, and twists and turns that kept the story action-packed, it didn’t grip me in quite the same way book one did. That being said, I still enjoyed it very much, and I’m definitely looking forward to reading the final book of the trilogy!
March 4, 2026
The Wicked and the Damned (Dark Inheritance Trilogy, #2) by Rebecca Robinson
Book Blurb:
Torn from her husband Reid’s arms and dragged back to her homeland in chains, Vaasa is no longer a ruler, but a political pawn. Now under the control of Ozik—a cunning Zetyr witch with a stranglehold on her magic—she faces annulment, forced betrothal, and a kingdom that no longer feels like her own. As Ozik’s machinations aim to install himself as the true power behind the Asteryan throne, Vaasa is forced to take part in his game.
Meanwhile, across the continent, Reid is done playing politics. But waging war is never simple, and a soldier’s fury cannot stand up against Icruria’s bureaucracy. With allies fading and time slipping away, Reid may have no choice but to infiltrate Asterya on his own to find the woman he loves and bring her home.
Rating: *****
Feels: Anticipation, Joy, Intrigue, Satisfaction
Style: Fantasy, Romantasy, Romance, Fantasy Romance
First published February 24, 2026 : 463 pages
This second book delivered !! Action, story progression, character development and pulling me in further into this amazing world and story. I enjoyed that we learned so much more about the depths of Vaasa's magic and how magic works in this world which is just really a fascinating build in this story and how its weaved into the different characters stories. I love how integral and detailed the author makes the lore of the gods and magic. Reading about how its all wielded was pivotal in the story and was so well set up and woven through book one and then built into book two that its make me want to go back for a reread of book one. The story is definitely dark and heart wrenching which I absolutely love. I love such depth of character that you can become so invested. Vaasa and Reid are just everything. The chemistry and passion they have for each other is melting !!! So much yearning of the best kind !!! This series have been a true pleasure to read and I am eagerly anticipating the next installment !!
This book has:
Enemies to Lovers
Touch her and Die
Found Family
He falls first
Arranged Marriage
Political Intrigue
Magic Systems
Multiple Timelines
Book Blurb:
Torn from her husband Reid’s arms and dragged back to her homeland in chains, Vaasa is no longer a ruler, but a political pawn. Now under the control of Ozik—a cunning Zetyr witch with a stranglehold on her magic—she faces annulment, forced betrothal, and a kingdom that no longer feels like her own. As Ozik’s machinations aim to install himself as the true power behind the Asteryan throne, Vaasa is forced to take part in his game.
Meanwhile, across the continent, Reid is done playing politics. But waging war is never simple, and a soldier’s fury cannot stand up against Icruria’s bureaucracy. With allies fading and time slipping away, Reid may have no choice but to infiltrate Asterya on his own to find the woman he loves and bring her home.
Rating: *****
Feels: Anticipation, Joy, Intrigue, Satisfaction
Style: Fantasy, Romantasy, Romance, Fantasy Romance
First published February 24, 2026 : 463 pages
This second book delivered !! Action, story progression, character development and pulling me in further into this amazing world and story. I enjoyed that we learned so much more about the depths of Vaasa's magic and how magic works in this world which is just really a fascinating build in this story and how its weaved into the different characters stories. I love how integral and detailed the author makes the lore of the gods and magic. Reading about how its all wielded was pivotal in the story and was so well set up and woven through book one and then built into book two that its make me want to go back for a reread of book one. The story is definitely dark and heart wrenching which I absolutely love. I love such depth of character that you can become so invested. Vaasa and Reid are just everything. The chemistry and passion they have for each other is melting !!! So much yearning of the best kind !!! This series have been a true pleasure to read and I am eagerly anticipating the next installment !!
This book has:
Enemies to Lovers
Touch her and Die
Found Family
He falls first
Arranged Marriage
Political Intrigue
Magic Systems
Multiple Timelines
March 9, 2026
Want to see more...
Bookstagram
Thank you Simon & Schuster for this book in exchange for an honest review
The Wicked and the Damned is a dramatic romantasy sequel packed with magic, politics, and a love story that refuses to stay separated. After being torn away from her husband Reid and dragged back to her homeland in chains, Our MFC Vaasa, finds herself trapped in a dangerous political game. Her former advisor Ozik now controls her magic and is determined to use her as a pawn to secure power in Asterya, even forcing her toward a new political marriage. Meanwhile, across the continent, Reid refuses to accept their separation and begins a risky mission to infiltrate Asterya and bring Vaasa home.
This book thrives on tension, yearning, and high-stakes scheming. Vaasa is clever, fierce, and constantly searching for a way to reclaim her power especially after discovering a mysterious message from her mother that might hold the key to freeing her magic. With political intrigue, magic, betrayal, and a romance built on determination and devotion, The Wicked and the Damned delivers a fast-paced romantasy full of danger, strategy, and two characters who will risk everything to find their way back to each other and I was here for it!!
Bookstagram
Thank you Simon & Schuster for this book in exchange for an honest review
The Wicked and the Damned is a dramatic romantasy sequel packed with magic, politics, and a love story that refuses to stay separated. After being torn away from her husband Reid and dragged back to her homeland in chains, Our MFC Vaasa, finds herself trapped in a dangerous political game. Her former advisor Ozik now controls her magic and is determined to use her as a pawn to secure power in Asterya, even forcing her toward a new political marriage. Meanwhile, across the continent, Reid refuses to accept their separation and begins a risky mission to infiltrate Asterya and bring Vaasa home.
This book thrives on tension, yearning, and high-stakes scheming. Vaasa is clever, fierce, and constantly searching for a way to reclaim her power especially after discovering a mysterious message from her mother that might hold the key to freeing her magic. With political intrigue, magic, betrayal, and a romance built on determination and devotion, The Wicked and the Damned delivers a fast-paced romantasy full of danger, strategy, and two characters who will risk everything to find their way back to each other and I was here for it!!
October 26, 2025
I was so excited to get this early! Thanks to Netgalley, the author and the publisher for allowing me to do so! I absolutely loved the first book and somehow this one manages to be even better! I love the romance between Vassa and Reid, he’s one of my top tier book boyfriends and Vassa grows so much. The magic system, the politics this whole book expands and just keeps getting better and better!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Thanks to NetGalley & Saga Press for the arc!
**1.5 stars** This was a dnf at 40%. An unfortunate case of not my cup of tea but others MIGHT find this interesting?
Picking up straight from the first book, now torn from her husband, Vassa no longer has rule over her homeland and is now a political pawn held by the current “ruler”, Ozik. Vassa faces complications with her magic while Ozik fights to have full control over the Astereyan throne. Meanwhile Vassa’s husband, Reid travels across the continent to reunite with Vassa and plans to infiltrate Asterya.
The biggest problem I had with this book was the writing style. The narrative was quite wordy yet so literal. It could take the simplest thing and turn it into mouthy paragraphs. A “tell not show” style of writing, if you will. From the hefty 40% I’ve read, the amount of dialogue to narrative was lacking. (A lot of “Character A says this”, she said. “Character B says this”, he replies.) It was quite irritating to read, to be honest. This too, affected the pacing because the first third of the book was so dragging, it couldn’t grasp my attention.
This book mainly flits between two povs with the occasional third or fourth character. I found that when I read between chapters, it was hard to differentiate which pov I was reading in because the overall tone was similar across the characters.
If you can get across these two barriers, and you like star-lovers finding their way back together, and have the headspace to read a dragged-on trilogy, then maybe you will like this? Though there is a lot of political intrigue and it takes a huge part of the story, I do find if it was chopped out of the book, it would have had the same impact.
**1.5 stars** This was a dnf at 40%. An unfortunate case of not my cup of tea but others MIGHT find this interesting?
Picking up straight from the first book, now torn from her husband, Vassa no longer has rule over her homeland and is now a political pawn held by the current “ruler”, Ozik. Vassa faces complications with her magic while Ozik fights to have full control over the Astereyan throne. Meanwhile Vassa’s husband, Reid travels across the continent to reunite with Vassa and plans to infiltrate Asterya.
The biggest problem I had with this book was the writing style. The narrative was quite wordy yet so literal. It could take the simplest thing and turn it into mouthy paragraphs. A “tell not show” style of writing, if you will. From the hefty 40% I’ve read, the amount of dialogue to narrative was lacking. (A lot of “Character A says this”, she said. “Character B says this”, he replies.) It was quite irritating to read, to be honest. This too, affected the pacing because the first third of the book was so dragging, it couldn’t grasp my attention.
This book mainly flits between two povs with the occasional third or fourth character. I found that when I read between chapters, it was hard to differentiate which pov I was reading in because the overall tone was similar across the characters.
If you can get across these two barriers, and you like star-lovers finding their way back together, and have the headspace to read a dragged-on trilogy, then maybe you will like this? Though there is a lot of political intrigue and it takes a huge part of the story, I do find if it was chopped out of the book, it would have had the same impact.
February 15, 2026
Thank you to the NetGalley and Saga Press for this earc
*Signs* Sadly, I didn’t enjoy this book as much as I did the first one. At all.
The best way I can explain my issue with it is if the author had an outline and wrote it exactly as it was, without giving characters a chance to grow. Every scene read exactly like a check list someone completed. The intimate scenes felt completely out of place and didn’t add anything to the story. And after 85% of slowness, the ending was incredibly rushed.
Overall, another book suffering from middle book syndrome
*Signs* Sadly, I didn’t enjoy this book as much as I did the first one. At all.
The best way I can explain my issue with it is if the author had an outline and wrote it exactly as it was, without giving characters a chance to grow. Every scene read exactly like a check list someone completed. The intimate scenes felt completely out of place and didn’t add anything to the story. And after 85% of slowness, the ending was incredibly rushed.
Overall, another book suffering from middle book syndrome
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 27, 2025
Rating: 4.75 ⭐️
What a wild ride! The last 100 pages felt like an SJM novel, leaving me speechless! There were twists I never saw coming. Like, WHOA. I freaking loved it.
Vaasa finally steps into her power after being underestimated and used for too long by too many men, and it was magical to watch her rise. She made me so proud. Reid was everything she needed (and I needed to be honest 👄 )—steady, selfless, and the one man who constantly gave instead of taking from her. Their growth together was a highlight. There is a reason he is in my top 3 for book boyfriends! More like book husbands. 😍
I also loved the spark of found family with a fiery redhead and her crew, and those ending reveals? I’m still reeling. I can’t wait to see how this series wraps up. It’s going to be an amazing finish!
What a wild ride! The last 100 pages felt like an SJM novel, leaving me speechless! There were twists I never saw coming. Like, WHOA. I freaking loved it.
Vaasa finally steps into her power after being underestimated and used for too long by too many men, and it was magical to watch her rise. She made me so proud. Reid was everything she needed (and I needed to be honest 👄 )—steady, selfless, and the one man who constantly gave instead of taking from her. Their growth together was a highlight. There is a reason he is in my top 3 for book boyfriends! More like book husbands. 😍
I also loved the spark of found family with a fiery redhead and her crew, and those ending reveals? I’m still reeling. I can’t wait to see how this series wraps up. It’s going to be an amazing finish!
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