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The Magic of Wishes & Dreams #1
Wishes in a Bottle
Centuries ago in plague-struck Italy, Julian DiConti cast a powerful spell in desperation to have the magical power to be able to help his people who were dying in horrific conditions. The spell goes spectacularly awry, leaving Julian enslaved to a Djinn bottle, bound to grant three wishes to each Master of the bottle until the spell can be broken. More than anything, Julian longs for a normal life – for a home, and a family. After six hundred years, however, he has begun to despair of ever being freed from the spell.
Enter Alessandra Taylor, a young woman who has followed her calling to help others, in the face of vociferous disapproval from her family, particularly her controlling father. Working at a shelter for battered women, she's thrilled to meet the reclusive Julian DiConti, whose collection of garments from third world countries has provided funding for shelters across the country. When Julian turns out to be a Djinn from the old bottle she found in her attic, she hears his story and empathizes with his despair. Although she's willing to free him, he can't tell her how. As time goes by, their initial attraction blossoms into a love that both realize is doomed. Once she has made her third wish, the magic of the bottle will whisk Julian away and out of her life forever... unless she can somehow figure out how to free him. But one by one, she's forced to use the precious wishes to help others.
Enter Alessandra Taylor, a young woman who has followed her calling to help others, in the face of vociferous disapproval from her family, particularly her controlling father. Working at a shelter for battered women, she's thrilled to meet the reclusive Julian DiConti, whose collection of garments from third world countries has provided funding for shelters across the country. When Julian turns out to be a Djinn from the old bottle she found in her attic, she hears his story and empathizes with his despair. Although she's willing to free him, he can't tell her how. As time goes by, their initial attraction blossoms into a love that both realize is doomed. Once she has made her third wish, the magic of the bottle will whisk Julian away and out of her life forever... unless she can somehow figure out how to free him. But one by one, she's forced to use the precious wishes to help others.
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First published January 15, 2019
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 57 reviews
February 24, 2019
“Wishes in a Bottle” by Allie McCormack is a story that has a bit of everything from romance to action, from mages to Djinn to shape shifters, and some of the most empathetic, true to life human characters I’ve read in a while.
Allie McCormack has got her stuff together. Whether the scene is one of great sadness and loss, jubilant triumph, a scary nail biter, or erotic romance (no worries, nothing hardcore)—she hits the nail squarely on the head. It’s hard for me to admit this, macho guy that I am; but there are a couple of scenes in “Wishes in a Bottle” that literally induced misty eyes. Anyone who can bring out the emotional highs and lows of a reader has gone beyond simply “doing it right.” The story is not a thriller, though it is surely a page turner, and one you’ll not soon forget. Get it, read it, review it, and then go get another of the several books published by Allie McCormack—I will.
Allie McCormack has got her stuff together. Whether the scene is one of great sadness and loss, jubilant triumph, a scary nail biter, or erotic romance (no worries, nothing hardcore)—she hits the nail squarely on the head. It’s hard for me to admit this, macho guy that I am; but there are a couple of scenes in “Wishes in a Bottle” that literally induced misty eyes. Anyone who can bring out the emotional highs and lows of a reader has gone beyond simply “doing it right.” The story is not a thriller, though it is surely a page turner, and one you’ll not soon forget. Get it, read it, review it, and then go get another of the several books published by Allie McCormack—I will.
April 30, 2024
Awhile back I went on a binge where I read a bunch of vampire novels. I was absolutely captivated by them and still think every girl needs a vampire in her life. Now I think every girl needs a genie in her life too. A mage, djinn, genie, whatever. I want one. Not just any will do, though. I need one like Julian.
I loved this book. I have never read anything like it, but I am hooked. I want to throw all of my other books aside and keep reading this series. I might just do it.
The book starts out with Julian, our hero who is sort of a hybrid between being a genie and a human, fulfilling the wishes of a selfish woman. He's not only gorgeous, he's got a huge heart and it's what she doesn't wish for about breaks him. But it also allowed him to bend the rules and ultimately meet the love of his life. After basically being enslaved for the past 600 years, he deserved something really good to happen and he deserved to be free.
Alessandra was the black sheep of her family. Her father was a control freak and decided what careers his daughters would have, if any and even who they would marry. It worked for the others, but it did not work for her. She was left out of many family functions, but when her nephew is dying, she reunites with her sister, Laura, who needed her desperately. In addition to that, she meets Julian and the game changes for everybody.
When Alessandra becomes his next master after finding his bottle, they fall in love. She holds his future in her hands, but has no idea that does and he can't tell her what to do to release him from the bottle. She is granted three wishes, of course, so why couldn't she just wish him to stay with her? It was so simple, but it isn't that easy. I was so hoping it would be. I thought of other alternatives to keep them together that were also thrown out with the window.
I was involved with this book on an emotional level that I haven't experienced in a long time. I laughed. I cried. I cheered. I caught my breath a few times. The author did a fantastic job of keeping the suspense of Julian's outcome until almost the very end of the book. I was hoping there wouldn't be a cliffhanger. There isn't.
I loved Julian and I loved Alessandra, but I also loved Jacinth, Laura, and Jackson. The way these characters interacted and the changes that they made kept me turning the pages. I loved the magic, the camaraderie, and the beautiful ending.
I will close this review from one of the things Julian said that nearly swept me off my feet:
“And I’ve waited centuries for you. But know this, Alessandra. I will love you always. No matter where I am, no matter when I am, you will be in my heart, my soul. I will always remember you... always love you. Always.”
It still makes me want to swoon...and cry. Such a great moment in the story.
Superb read!
Oh, I almost forgot. If you subscribe to the author's newsletter, you get a free short story that precedes this book and gives some background on Julian, although it's more centered around a young boy who is learning the ropes of living a life of magic. It was wildly entertaining and didn't take long to read.
I loved this book. I have never read anything like it, but I am hooked. I want to throw all of my other books aside and keep reading this series. I might just do it.
The book starts out with Julian, our hero who is sort of a hybrid between being a genie and a human, fulfilling the wishes of a selfish woman. He's not only gorgeous, he's got a huge heart and it's what she doesn't wish for about breaks him. But it also allowed him to bend the rules and ultimately meet the love of his life. After basically being enslaved for the past 600 years, he deserved something really good to happen and he deserved to be free.
Alessandra was the black sheep of her family. Her father was a control freak and decided what careers his daughters would have, if any and even who they would marry. It worked for the others, but it did not work for her. She was left out of many family functions, but when her nephew is dying, she reunites with her sister, Laura, who needed her desperately. In addition to that, she meets Julian and the game changes for everybody.
When Alessandra becomes his next master after finding his bottle, they fall in love. She holds his future in her hands, but has no idea that does and he can't tell her what to do to release him from the bottle. She is granted three wishes, of course, so why couldn't she just wish him to stay with her? It was so simple, but it isn't that easy. I was so hoping it would be. I thought of other alternatives to keep them together that were also thrown out with the window.
I was involved with this book on an emotional level that I haven't experienced in a long time. I laughed. I cried. I cheered. I caught my breath a few times. The author did a fantastic job of keeping the suspense of Julian's outcome until almost the very end of the book. I was hoping there wouldn't be a cliffhanger. There isn't.
I loved Julian and I loved Alessandra, but I also loved Jacinth, Laura, and Jackson. The way these characters interacted and the changes that they made kept me turning the pages. I loved the magic, the camaraderie, and the beautiful ending.
I will close this review from one of the things Julian said that nearly swept me off my feet:
“And I’ve waited centuries for you. But know this, Alessandra. I will love you always. No matter where I am, no matter when I am, you will be in my heart, my soul. I will always remember you... always love you. Always.”
It still makes me want to swoon...and cry. Such a great moment in the story.
Superb read!
Oh, I almost forgot. If you subscribe to the author's newsletter, you get a free short story that precedes this book and gives some background on Julian, although it's more centered around a young boy who is learning the ropes of living a life of magic. It was wildly entertaining and didn't take long to read.
May 12, 2019
Julian had been a magically gifted man who wanted to help. He cast a spell to try to help his family who were dying in horrible was. But the spell went haywire. He was than cursed to be a Djinn in a bottle and forced to grant three wished to every new owner of the bottle. After the three wishes he just goes on to the next owner. He has now been in the bottle for six hundred years and he has seen a lot of greed and selfishness. Julian is desperate to have the curse broken as he’d like a home, family and love. He has seen too much of the greed in people such as the last owner chose to have jewelry instead of saving a child’s life. Julian feels life can’t get any worse. Than he is called to a new owner and it is Alessandra. Julian and Alessandra are attracted to each other right after meeting. Alessandra spends her time between hospice care and working at a women’s shelter After hearing Julian’s story she wants to free Julian but has to figure out herself how to do it. Jullian can’t tell her. Once her wishes are used she will never see Julian again. But time is running out for them and they have fallen in love. Julian fears he will endure this torture of loving her forever and not being with her.
I really enjoyed this book. There were a few editing problems that needed to be fixed but that didn’t stop me from reading this book. I loved Julian and Alessandra together and how they interacted with each other even of they feel their love is doomed if alessandra doesn’t figure out how to break the curse. I chuckled at times and I choked up at times while reading this book. I did hate Julian’s family. I really liked the plot and pace. Alessandra was such a ewarm, caring, giving person! I felt bad for all the bad things Julian had to see because of people's greed and selfishness. Especially when all he had wanted to do was help his family. I am going to see if u can find some more books written by this author as this was the first time a read a book of hers. I loved the characters and the ins and outs of this book and I recommend it.
I really enjoyed this book. There were a few editing problems that needed to be fixed but that didn’t stop me from reading this book. I loved Julian and Alessandra together and how they interacted with each other even of they feel their love is doomed if alessandra doesn’t figure out how to break the curse. I chuckled at times and I choked up at times while reading this book. I did hate Julian’s family. I really liked the plot and pace. Alessandra was such a ewarm, caring, giving person! I felt bad for all the bad things Julian had to see because of people's greed and selfishness. Especially when all he had wanted to do was help his family. I am going to see if u can find some more books written by this author as this was the first time a read a book of hers. I loved the characters and the ins and outs of this book and I recommend it.
June 18, 2021
Allie McCormack is a new author to me. I enjoyed the sweet, selfless romance that “ Wishes in a Bottle (Wishes & Dreams Book 1)” is.
This was a delightful and engaging story that showed the worst of mankind and the best. The main characters were wonderful, selfless and giving and the romance was magical! It’s a new spin on an old story with a good plot. The author does a great job of pulling it all together in the end.
Thank you so much Ms. McCormack for this enjoyable read.
This was a delightful and engaging story that showed the worst of mankind and the best. The main characters were wonderful, selfless and giving and the romance was magical! It’s a new spin on an old story with a good plot. The author does a great job of pulling it all together in the end.
Thank you so much Ms. McCormack for this enjoyable read.
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September 13, 2021🎁 FREE on Amazon & on Apple iBooks today (9/13/2021)!🎁
December 22, 2021
I have just read this book after voluntarily beta reading for book 4 of the series and I can honestly say that this is one of the best books I have read all year. It has all the drama, action and comedy and what I enjoy most are the references to the everyday things that we probably take for granted like being able to watch the Lord of the Rings and it also highlights how some people can be selfish and cruel, how some are focused on material things and how some are truly selfless. A definite must read.
February 12, 2019
A fun start to a series. I enjoyed the take on Djinn and the world built. It was a fun, feel-good romance that I enjoyed getting lost in. Looking forward to reading more in this series.
February 12, 2025
It was boring. The story drags endlessly, and hardly any magic happens at all, except they make tea appear sometimes.There were so many unnecessary scenes that were too long and brought nothing to the story. I certainly didn’t need a recap of the Lord of The Rings trilogy (extended version), or a detailed description of how many courses they had for dinner, or who ate what. Two of the three wishes happen in the last 15 percent of the book, and the rest is just filler (repetitive filler). I understand trying to get the reader to know and care for the characters, but it was too much of nothing happening. I skipped entire sections and missed nothing. Also, characters we just met are suddenly named as if we should know who the hell they are, one time even before the MCs knew the character’s name. I thought I had skipped a page, or something. It could have been less than 200 pages and it would have been better, less boring, without all that bunch of absolutely nothing.
May 24, 2025
Wishes in a Bottle, by Allie McCormack, is a romantic fantasy that weaves together ancient magic, eternal longing, and the power of selfless love. Julian DiConti, a mage from plague-ridden Italy, becomes bound to a mystical bottle after a spell goes wrong, cursed to grant wishes until three truly selfless ones are made. In modern-day New York, his fate collides with Alessandra Taylor, a hospice worker with a compassionate soul, offering him the first glimmer of hope he’s had in centuries. Their story unfolds against the backdrop of pain, healing, and a magical bond neither of them expected.
What struck me most about the book was how real Julian felt despite the genie-in-a-bottle premise. He’s six hundred years old, yes, but his pain is fresh, raw even. The opening scene, in which a selfish woman squanders her final wish on a necklace rather than saving a dying child, was deeply unsettling and emotionally jarring. You can feel Julian’s frustration. I loved that the author didn’t sugarcoat his weariness. He endured centuries of witnessing individuals squander extraordinary opportunities, all while being powerless to intervene. The emotional depth of that experience was profoundly affecting.
Then there’s Alessandra. I adored her. She’s fierce in a quiet, grounded way. Her love for her nephew Bobby and her simmering resentment toward her emotionally absent brother-in-law felt so authentic. There’s a scene where she storms into the hospital after hearing about Bobby’s worsening condition, angry, grieving, full of fire, and yet the moment she sees her sister, she softens immediately. That complexity made her so relatable. When Alessandra meets Julian, there is an immediate sense of connection, marked not only by chemistry but also by trust, skepticism, and genuine curiosity. Their relationship develops gradually, avoiding the trope of instant infatuation, which makes the unfolding of their bond all the more compelling and rewarding.
The magic system is subtle but beautifully handled. It’s not flashy spells and fight scenes, it is ancient rules, quiet consequences, and emotional toll. I especially liked how Julian is punished by pain for bending the rules, like when he visits Bobby without a wish being made. That added meaningful weight to the magical framework, grounding it in emotional consequence. While the middle section leans heavily on dialogue and introspection, it enriches the characters and their relationships. The warmth and underlying tension between them kept the narrative engaging and made it difficult to put down.
Allie McCormack's Wishes in a Bottle surprised me. It’s not just a love story. It’s about redemption, choice, and the agony of wanting to do good when the world keeps getting in the way. I’d recommend it to fans of character-driven romance with a supernatural twist. If you liked The Time Traveler’s Wife or works by Nora Roberts with a magical edge, you will enjoy this unique romantic adventure.
What struck me most about the book was how real Julian felt despite the genie-in-a-bottle premise. He’s six hundred years old, yes, but his pain is fresh, raw even. The opening scene, in which a selfish woman squanders her final wish on a necklace rather than saving a dying child, was deeply unsettling and emotionally jarring. You can feel Julian’s frustration. I loved that the author didn’t sugarcoat his weariness. He endured centuries of witnessing individuals squander extraordinary opportunities, all while being powerless to intervene. The emotional depth of that experience was profoundly affecting.
Then there’s Alessandra. I adored her. She’s fierce in a quiet, grounded way. Her love for her nephew Bobby and her simmering resentment toward her emotionally absent brother-in-law felt so authentic. There’s a scene where she storms into the hospital after hearing about Bobby’s worsening condition, angry, grieving, full of fire, and yet the moment she sees her sister, she softens immediately. That complexity made her so relatable. When Alessandra meets Julian, there is an immediate sense of connection, marked not only by chemistry but also by trust, skepticism, and genuine curiosity. Their relationship develops gradually, avoiding the trope of instant infatuation, which makes the unfolding of their bond all the more compelling and rewarding.
The magic system is subtle but beautifully handled. It’s not flashy spells and fight scenes, it is ancient rules, quiet consequences, and emotional toll. I especially liked how Julian is punished by pain for bending the rules, like when he visits Bobby without a wish being made. That added meaningful weight to the magical framework, grounding it in emotional consequence. While the middle section leans heavily on dialogue and introspection, it enriches the characters and their relationships. The warmth and underlying tension between them kept the narrative engaging and made it difficult to put down.
Allie McCormack's Wishes in a Bottle surprised me. It’s not just a love story. It’s about redemption, choice, and the agony of wanting to do good when the world keeps getting in the way. I’d recommend it to fans of character-driven romance with a supernatural twist. If you liked The Time Traveler’s Wife or works by Nora Roberts with a magical edge, you will enjoy this unique romantic adventure.
October 25, 2022
This was such fun to read, magic happening in real life – so awesome and wonderful. I’ve read some books of Allie McCormack before and I love her "out-of-this-world in this world" romances. The empathy, humor and cheekiness in this series is so wonderful to read, it’s no wonder you want to go antique shopping and looking for a gorgeous bottle yourself. I can recommend reading this series, she is writing book 5 at the moment. I can guarantee you you love it too.
The story is as follows:
After 600 years of being bound to a magical bottle, Julian is beginning to wonder if he will be trapped as a Djinn forever.
Centuries ago in plague-struck Italy, Julian DiConti cast a powerful spell in desperation to have the magical power to be able to help his people who were dying in horrific conditions. The spell goes spectacularly awry, leaving Julian enslaved to a Djinn bottle, bound to grant three wishes to each Master of the bottle until the spell can be broken. More than anything, Julian longs for a normal life – for a home, and a family. After six hundred years, however, he has begun to despair of ever being freed from the spell.
Enter Alessandra Taylor, a young woman who has followed her calling to help others, in the face of vociferous disapproval from her family. Working at a shelter for battered women, she's thrilled to meet the reclusive Julian DiConti, whose collection of garments from third world countries has provided funding for shelters across the country. When Julian turns out to be a Djinn from the old bottle she found in her attic, she empathizes with his despair.
But one by one, she's forced to use the precious wishes to help others.
Although she's willing to free him, he can't tell her how, and once she has made her third wish, the magic of the bottle will whisk Julian away and out of her life forever... unless she can somehow figure out how to free him.
The story is as follows:
After 600 years of being bound to a magical bottle, Julian is beginning to wonder if he will be trapped as a Djinn forever.
Centuries ago in plague-struck Italy, Julian DiConti cast a powerful spell in desperation to have the magical power to be able to help his people who were dying in horrific conditions. The spell goes spectacularly awry, leaving Julian enslaved to a Djinn bottle, bound to grant three wishes to each Master of the bottle until the spell can be broken. More than anything, Julian longs for a normal life – for a home, and a family. After six hundred years, however, he has begun to despair of ever being freed from the spell.
Enter Alessandra Taylor, a young woman who has followed her calling to help others, in the face of vociferous disapproval from her family. Working at a shelter for battered women, she's thrilled to meet the reclusive Julian DiConti, whose collection of garments from third world countries has provided funding for shelters across the country. When Julian turns out to be a Djinn from the old bottle she found in her attic, she empathizes with his despair.
But one by one, she's forced to use the precious wishes to help others.
Although she's willing to free him, he can't tell her how, and once she has made her third wish, the magic of the bottle will whisk Julian away and out of her life forever... unless she can somehow figure out how to free him.
February 15, 2021
With the backdrop of selfishness and greed shown by so many people, we have two people who are caring and giving, ready to sacrifice for the sake of others despite the negativity of those around them.
Julian DiConti had tried to use his magical gifts to do something for others during the Plague. When the spell went wrong, he ended up cursed to be a Djinn in a bottle, granting three wishes to his master, then reappearing elsewhere for another master. After 600 years, he has seen the worst of human nature. When a selfish woman used her wish on a frivolous wish for herself rather than save a dying child, Julian broke the rules to go comfort the child. At the hospital, he met Alessandra Taylor who gives her time to hospice care and working at a women’s shelter, and she sends up being his new owner.
Alessandra is not like the others and would use her wishes to help others. She and Julian are attracted to each other, and she wants to free him from the curse. But he is not permitted to tell her how. And if all the wishes are used, she will never see him again. All he ever wanted over these long years was freedom to love and have a family of his own. Will he ever get this own wish to have a life with Alessandra? Will the curse ever be broken?
This was an unexpected story line that really captures the emotions and warms the heart. The reader can’t help but want these two to find love and happiness. Will Alessandra find a way to break the curse? Or will she lost the man she loves forever?
There is much more in this story, so grab your copy and see if the two most deserving characters get their HEA.
Julian DiConti had tried to use his magical gifts to do something for others during the Plague. When the spell went wrong, he ended up cursed to be a Djinn in a bottle, granting three wishes to his master, then reappearing elsewhere for another master. After 600 years, he has seen the worst of human nature. When a selfish woman used her wish on a frivolous wish for herself rather than save a dying child, Julian broke the rules to go comfort the child. At the hospital, he met Alessandra Taylor who gives her time to hospice care and working at a women’s shelter, and she sends up being his new owner.
Alessandra is not like the others and would use her wishes to help others. She and Julian are attracted to each other, and she wants to free him from the curse. But he is not permitted to tell her how. And if all the wishes are used, she will never see him again. All he ever wanted over these long years was freedom to love and have a family of his own. Will he ever get this own wish to have a life with Alessandra? Will the curse ever be broken?
This was an unexpected story line that really captures the emotions and warms the heart. The reader can’t help but want these two to find love and happiness. Will Alessandra find a way to break the curse? Or will she lost the man she loves forever?
There is much more in this story, so grab your copy and see if the two most deserving characters get their HEA.
February 18, 2021
Beautifully twisted paranormal romance!
This amazing book addresses the question, "What if Aladdin was real?" Julian is a mage who has been trapped in service as a Wish Bearer for the past 600 years after his attempt to use his limited magic to defeat the Black Plague backfired. The curse can be broken if any one of the wish recipients is compassionate enough to figure out how to free him (though of course he can't tell them), but so far not one has even tried. After meeting a dying boy while delivering the remaining wishes to a particularly avaricious woman, Julian offers comfort to the boy's family even as he is powerless to intervene. This heartbreaking opening is only made all the more poignant when the boy's aunt, Alessandra, becomes the next in line for Julian's wish fulfillment.
While heavy at first (warning: death of a child), this story doesn't dwell in the past, instead moving into a wonderful romance that should be completely impossible - and one that Julian dare not hope for. The story is surprisingly complex, intricately detailed, and thoroughly captivating. We meet characters who will be featured in the next two book, but this one works as a wonderful standalone with a very happy ending.
I like my paranormal to be reality-adjacent, and this one hits the mark every time. Their world is our world, not an unfamiliar fantastical realm, and that keeps the story grounded even when it's at its most bizarre. There's a lot going on in this book and I loved every expertly-presented bit of it.
If you like intelligent, thought-provoking paranormal romance with amazing characters and unique storylines, this is the book for you. Be prepared to dive right into the next two books as well, because you'll never want to leave this incredible fictional world. I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book.
This amazing book addresses the question, "What if Aladdin was real?" Julian is a mage who has been trapped in service as a Wish Bearer for the past 600 years after his attempt to use his limited magic to defeat the Black Plague backfired. The curse can be broken if any one of the wish recipients is compassionate enough to figure out how to free him (though of course he can't tell them), but so far not one has even tried. After meeting a dying boy while delivering the remaining wishes to a particularly avaricious woman, Julian offers comfort to the boy's family even as he is powerless to intervene. This heartbreaking opening is only made all the more poignant when the boy's aunt, Alessandra, becomes the next in line for Julian's wish fulfillment.
While heavy at first (warning: death of a child), this story doesn't dwell in the past, instead moving into a wonderful romance that should be completely impossible - and one that Julian dare not hope for. The story is surprisingly complex, intricately detailed, and thoroughly captivating. We meet characters who will be featured in the next two book, but this one works as a wonderful standalone with a very happy ending.
I like my paranormal to be reality-adjacent, and this one hits the mark every time. Their world is our world, not an unfamiliar fantastical realm, and that keeps the story grounded even when it's at its most bizarre. There's a lot going on in this book and I loved every expertly-presented bit of it.
If you like intelligent, thought-provoking paranormal romance with amazing characters and unique storylines, this is the book for you. Be prepared to dive right into the next two books as well, because you'll never want to leave this incredible fictional world. I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book.
March 5, 2019
When I saw the title of Wishes in a Bottle, it reminded me of the Genie in the lamb of Aladdin. As a Disney-fan, I was curious and requested the arc. Allie McCormack's story of Julian (in a bottle) has a bit of a twist, however. Julian has been cursed to be a genie (or Djinn) in a bottle for over six hundred years ago, because of a spell going haywire. As a human trapped in a bottle and forced to fulfill three wishes of it's owner, he has seen a lot of greed and selfishness.
And not being able to do as you wish, not having a family and being trapped in a bottle for years has made Julian desperate. Because since he can't tell his master how to free him, he will probably never be free. Enter Alessandra, who meets Julian in the hospital while visiting her nearly dying nephew. Julian is instantly attracted to the strong woman, who devotes her life to making the life of others better. After so much greed and dishonesty, Julian is honored to meet her.
But then, Julian is pulled back into his bottle. To be found by his new master: Alessandra. But how can she use her wishes to free Julian? Not eager to spend her wishes, she and Julian start to date and enjoy each others company. Because they know: once the three wishes are used, Alessandra will never see Julian again. While trying to figure out how to stay together, time is running out. Because when Alessandra must choose between someone dying and keeping her wishes, she uses her wishes without a doubt. Four out of five stars from me and a special thank you to Netgalley for providing the arc.
And not being able to do as you wish, not having a family and being trapped in a bottle for years has made Julian desperate. Because since he can't tell his master how to free him, he will probably never be free. Enter Alessandra, who meets Julian in the hospital while visiting her nearly dying nephew. Julian is instantly attracted to the strong woman, who devotes her life to making the life of others better. After so much greed and dishonesty, Julian is honored to meet her.
But then, Julian is pulled back into his bottle. To be found by his new master: Alessandra. But how can she use her wishes to free Julian? Not eager to spend her wishes, she and Julian start to date and enjoy each others company. Because they know: once the three wishes are used, Alessandra will never see Julian again. While trying to figure out how to stay together, time is running out. Because when Alessandra must choose between someone dying and keeping her wishes, she uses her wishes without a doubt. Four out of five stars from me and a special thank you to Netgalley for providing the arc.
March 2, 2021
Mit "Wishes in a Bottle" hat man ein echt schönes Buch, welches sich leicht liest und einfach Spaß macht. Ok, der Anfang ist vl nicht ganz so lustig, lest einfach, und ihr wisst was ich mein. Aber die Geschichte entwickelt sich einfach so schön und die beiden Protas sind echt toll!
Hab mich sofort in Julian und Alessandra verliebt, die beiden haben es einem aber auch sehr einfach gemacht.
Wer hier eine tiefgründige Story erwartet, wird sicherlich enttäuscht, es ist immerhin nur ein Band, aber die Autorin hat es super geschrieben.
Auch die Nebenprotas haben Freude bereitet, besonders Laura und Jacinth. Bin schon auf ihre Geschichte gespannt.
Eine tolle Liebesgeschichte mit etwas 1001-Flair, sexy und traumhaft.
***
Wishes in a Bottle is a really beautiful book. I was fully into the world of Julian and Alessandra from page one. It is a fun, sexy and romantic read. Ok fine, the beginning might not be as funny, read for yourself. But the story develops nicely and Julian and Alessandra are enough reason for this.
Of course you must not expect a very deep story here, I mean, it is one book, but the author managed to bring on all the perfect aspects of the story and highlighted their relationship in a nice way. I just loved it.
Also, the other characters were fun, especially Laura and Jacinth. Really looking forward to her story.
Overall, a really nice and sexy romance, with little steam, lots of love and fun :)
Hab mich sofort in Julian und Alessandra verliebt, die beiden haben es einem aber auch sehr einfach gemacht.
Wer hier eine tiefgründige Story erwartet, wird sicherlich enttäuscht, es ist immerhin nur ein Band, aber die Autorin hat es super geschrieben.
Auch die Nebenprotas haben Freude bereitet, besonders Laura und Jacinth. Bin schon auf ihre Geschichte gespannt.
Eine tolle Liebesgeschichte mit etwas 1001-Flair, sexy und traumhaft.
***
Wishes in a Bottle is a really beautiful book. I was fully into the world of Julian and Alessandra from page one. It is a fun, sexy and romantic read. Ok fine, the beginning might not be as funny, read for yourself. But the story develops nicely and Julian and Alessandra are enough reason for this.
Of course you must not expect a very deep story here, I mean, it is one book, but the author managed to bring on all the perfect aspects of the story and highlighted their relationship in a nice way. I just loved it.
Also, the other characters were fun, especially Laura and Jacinth. Really looking forward to her story.
Overall, a really nice and sexy romance, with little steam, lots of love and fun :)
November 18, 2024
In book one of the Magic of Wishes & Dreams series, Alessandra learns her young nephew is dying, so she goes to her estranged sister at the hospital and tries to help. There she meets Julian, a stranger who also wishes to help the little boy.
For six hundred years, Julian has been trapped by the magic of his bottle to do the bidding of his latest master. He’s a Mage—a human with magical abilities—and also a Djinn, a being with unlimited power, yet for him, his power is severely restricted. Then he meets Alessandra, and he finally has hope for freedom.
What a wonderful story! It had romance, magic, laughter, and heartbreak. Alex and Julian were great characters. They were each flawed yet so strong and determined to do good where they could. I couldn’t help but root for them.
Julian’s friend and Djinn mentor, Jacinth, was a hoot! I’m dying to know more about Kieran, the Djinn prince, as well as the shapeshifter cat family. Needless to say, the secondary characters filled out the story.
Even though I really enjoyed it, there were some proofreading/punctuation issues, and all the head-hopping kept taking me out of the story. If not for those things, my rating would be five stars.
Anyway, if you’re in the mood for a heart-wrenching paranormal romance with heavy petting that fades to black, then you’ll want to check out Wishes in a Bottle.
4 Stars
For six hundred years, Julian has been trapped by the magic of his bottle to do the bidding of his latest master. He’s a Mage—a human with magical abilities—and also a Djinn, a being with unlimited power, yet for him, his power is severely restricted. Then he meets Alessandra, and he finally has hope for freedom.
What a wonderful story! It had romance, magic, laughter, and heartbreak. Alex and Julian were great characters. They were each flawed yet so strong and determined to do good where they could. I couldn’t help but root for them.
Julian’s friend and Djinn mentor, Jacinth, was a hoot! I’m dying to know more about Kieran, the Djinn prince, as well as the shapeshifter cat family. Needless to say, the secondary characters filled out the story.
Even though I really enjoyed it, there were some proofreading/punctuation issues, and all the head-hopping kept taking me out of the story. If not for those things, my rating would be five stars.
Anyway, if you’re in the mood for a heart-wrenching paranormal romance with heavy petting that fades to black, then you’ll want to check out Wishes in a Bottle.
4 Stars
March 15, 2019
This book had a lot of heart jammed into a paranormal story with djinn and magic.
Julian started his life as a magically gifted man who only wanted to help people. When his magical wish went wrong, he ended up as a mage/Djinn hybrid, stuck tied to a bottle and granting people’s wishes until a predetermined endpoint. He’s unable to inform his “master” what would free him and is pretty sure his torture will never end.
After a particularly nasty master refuses to save a child and instead wishes for jewelry, he feels like life cannot get any worse. Enter Alessandra – the most selfless woman alive. She splits her time between hospice care and working at a women’s shelter. She catches Julian’s eye, even when he is determined to avoid most human attachments.
These two had a really beautiful start of a romance when he is suddenly sucked back into his bottle, only to reappear as slave to Julian’s wishes. Not nearly as hot as it sounds, they work through it, and they even get a HEA! Alessandra was, by far, the best part of this book. She was a wonderfully beautiful soul and was obviously destined to break his curse. You know what was the worst? Julian’s family! Once you move beyond the horrible people in their family, the story was pretty enjoyable.
Julian started his life as a magically gifted man who only wanted to help people. When his magical wish went wrong, he ended up as a mage/Djinn hybrid, stuck tied to a bottle and granting people’s wishes until a predetermined endpoint. He’s unable to inform his “master” what would free him and is pretty sure his torture will never end.
After a particularly nasty master refuses to save a child and instead wishes for jewelry, he feels like life cannot get any worse. Enter Alessandra – the most selfless woman alive. She splits her time between hospice care and working at a women’s shelter. She catches Julian’s eye, even when he is determined to avoid most human attachments.
These two had a really beautiful start of a romance when he is suddenly sucked back into his bottle, only to reappear as slave to Julian’s wishes. Not nearly as hot as it sounds, they work through it, and they even get a HEA! Alessandra was, by far, the best part of this book. She was a wonderfully beautiful soul and was obviously destined to break his curse. You know what was the worst? Julian’s family! Once you move beyond the horrible people in their family, the story was pretty enjoyable.
May 15, 2019
After a long absence from the writing world, Allie McCormack is back with a new paranormal romance series: Wishes and Dreams. Wishes in a Bottle is book 1 (book 2 is on its way), with a sweet, selfless heroine and a hot Italian djinn (yup, there's a story there, but... SPOILERS!).
Julian has been living a not-quite-charmed life for 600 years after a spell went wrong. His last master was a cruel, selfish woman, who *could* have given just one wish to save a sick little boy. But when she makes her last wish out of spite and Julian is free again to continue his life, he breaks the rules to return to the dying boy's bedside. There, while offering what comfort he can to the boy and his mother, Julian meets Alessandra.
As the pair grows closer, drawn together by grief, they are pulled closer by common purposes. So when Julian is pulled back into his bottle and the rules that bound him for 600 are turned inside out, he's stunned to discover that Alessandra is his new master.
Wishes in a Bottle is a beautiful love story with warm-hearted characters (no overpowering male leads here). Tension and humor both run thick in the pages of this romance, and there are more to come!
Julian has been living a not-quite-charmed life for 600 years after a spell went wrong. His last master was a cruel, selfish woman, who *could* have given just one wish to save a sick little boy. But when she makes her last wish out of spite and Julian is free again to continue his life, he breaks the rules to return to the dying boy's bedside. There, while offering what comfort he can to the boy and his mother, Julian meets Alessandra.
As the pair grows closer, drawn together by grief, they are pulled closer by common purposes. So when Julian is pulled back into his bottle and the rules that bound him for 600 are turned inside out, he's stunned to discover that Alessandra is his new master.
Wishes in a Bottle is a beautiful love story with warm-hearted characters (no overpowering male leads here). Tension and humor both run thick in the pages of this romance, and there are more to come!
February 14, 2021
Genie in a bottle romance
Once upon a time a young mage, still in his apprentice years, wanted to help people by gaining enough magic powers to stop the spread of the Plague. In a classic "Be careful what you wish for" scenario, he ended up a genie in a bottle, all his magic at the bottle owner's command, forever trapped until someone could break his curse. This is a different and truly well-told version of the 'genie in the bottle' trope, with a lovely and slightly steamy romance interwoven. I found it strangely addictive; each time I thought there would be a breakthrough, it didn't materialize, but instead of frustrating me, it glued me more firmly to the story. I couldn't stop reading! Only at the very end did it all make sense, come together, and resolve both the curse AND the romance - a double HEA and a delightfully different magical romance. This is a voluntary ARC review.
Once upon a time a young mage, still in his apprentice years, wanted to help people by gaining enough magic powers to stop the spread of the Plague. In a classic "Be careful what you wish for" scenario, he ended up a genie in a bottle, all his magic at the bottle owner's command, forever trapped until someone could break his curse. This is a different and truly well-told version of the 'genie in the bottle' trope, with a lovely and slightly steamy romance interwoven. I found it strangely addictive; each time I thought there would be a breakthrough, it didn't materialize, but instead of frustrating me, it glued me more firmly to the story. I couldn't stop reading! Only at the very end did it all make sense, come together, and resolve both the curse AND the romance - a double HEA and a delightfully different magical romance. This is a voluntary ARC review.
March 1, 2021
Julian is a mage during the Great Plague, trying to help people but turned into a genie and sentenced to grant wishes via his magic. Alessandra is current day, 600 years later, works with hospice and a womens shelter. She becomes his new master after a particularly bad one.
The characters are both selfless and strong in their determination, wanting to help at a moments notice. The romance springs up between them, but it is bittersweet with the situation. There is a way to release him but he can not tell her how. Surprises and twists await them. This book had me going from the very start. Well detailed and the backstories are fantastic. Such a heartwarming couple that the story had me using tissues a lot. The ending was perfect. Very well done.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
The characters are both selfless and strong in their determination, wanting to help at a moments notice. The romance springs up between them, but it is bittersweet with the situation. There is a way to release him but he can not tell her how. Surprises and twists await them. This book had me going from the very start. Well detailed and the backstories are fantastic. Such a heartwarming couple that the story had me using tissues a lot. The ending was perfect. Very well done.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
March 27, 2025
Good writing. Cute story. 3rd person POV, which I like. Lovable characters. Would have been a 4, vs 3, but for one thing. This would have been better if a lot of the middle had been cut. As one other reviewer said, we don't need a retelling of the LOTR trilogy, or detailed descriptions of what's being eaten. There really were quite long sections that added nothing to the progression of the story. Then, suddenly it's as if the writer realized the book was getting too long, so bang bang, last 2 wishes and quick - wrap it up. So, story pacing is off. That's something I see people complain about a lot whereas I rarely find it to be an issue. Anyway, there is still enough going for the series, I'll read the next book. After that, not sure, as shape-shifting isn't a trope that normally appeals to me.
February 9, 2021
I knew I was going to love this book when it made me cry right away.The story just got better with all the mystery surrounding the "genie". There are a lot of really nicely fleshed out characters, one of which is the djinn sponsor for our hero. She deserves a story of her own. I thought all along how amazing a 900 year old djinn would find the modern world. Ans she embraced the technology whole-heartedly. But if she does get her own romance, the guy had better have a big TV and a lot of movies.
Seriously, get this book. It is so well written that you owe it to yourself to read it.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Seriously, get this book. It is so well written that you owe it to yourself to read it.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
February 12, 2021
Julian DiConti, is a hybrid of Djinn and Mage, who only wants to do good. Julian's Sahib's is a greedy and vain person refusing to help others. Alessandra Taylor works as a hospice nurse and volunteers at women's shelter. Alessandra wasn't told that her nephew was extremely ill and only just learned of his impending death. When Julian and Alessandra meet under unique circumstances but change each other's lives. Will Julian ever be free? Can Julian admit his feelings? Your answers await you in Wishes in a Bottle.
February 3, 2025
I fell in love with Julian. I felt as if I was right there with the characters - feeling their emotions through all the ups and downs that they each had to face.
I cried during the passing of Bobby and and when Alessandra and Fran had their heart-to-heart talk. But then I laughed many times throughout especially when Jacinth was involved. I'd definitely recommend this book to anyone who enjoys reading paranormal/love stories. I have all 7 of the books in this series and I'm just getting ready to start the 2nd one. I can't wait to see what happens with Jacinth!
I cried during the passing of Bobby and and when Alessandra and Fran had their heart-to-heart talk. But then I laughed many times throughout especially when Jacinth was involved. I'd definitely recommend this book to anyone who enjoys reading paranormal/love stories. I have all 7 of the books in this series and I'm just getting ready to start the 2nd one. I can't wait to see what happens with Jacinth!
February 27, 2019
I received an advanced reader's copy of Wishes in a Bottle (Wishes & Dreams #1) by Allie McCormack from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
This was the first novel by Allie McCormack that I have read and, overall, this novel missed the mark for me. I thought the writing was alright and the plot should have been interesting given the summary, but the plot wasn't evenly paced as it meandered. Also, the main characters' chemistry fell short.
This was the first novel by Allie McCormack that I have read and, overall, this novel missed the mark for me. I thought the writing was alright and the plot should have been interesting given the summary, but the plot wasn't evenly paced as it meandered. Also, the main characters' chemistry fell short.
April 20, 2020
Fun read
I concidered not leaving a review because I'm not really a romance reader, but I'll share a few thoughts. As a not-romance reader, there were 3 scenes I skipped over. I did enjoy the characters and their journeys, and the positive themes of selflessness and service. The paranormal aspects were interesting and well thought out. The story was fun but a bit predictable, which killed the tension for me. Overall I enjoyed the read.
I concidered not leaving a review because I'm not really a romance reader, but I'll share a few thoughts. As a not-romance reader, there were 3 scenes I skipped over. I did enjoy the characters and their journeys, and the positive themes of selflessness and service. The paranormal aspects were interesting and well thought out. The story was fun but a bit predictable, which killed the tension for me. Overall I enjoyed the read.
February 26, 2025
This book really surprised me! It was so good!! The characters had so much depth and the story line was really engaging and touching. I even cried a little bit towards the beginning.
While this book had some sad moments, it was soooo worth it and I really enjoyed this book. I would definitely read this book again!
This book was mostly clean but did have a couple of moments with some pretty passionate making out that I skipped through.
While this book had some sad moments, it was soooo worth it and I really enjoyed this book. I would definitely read this book again!
This book was mostly clean but did have a couple of moments with some pretty passionate making out that I skipped through.
February 6, 2021
I received this book as an ARC from NetGalley.
Julian DiConti is a handsome, sensitive, and caring man with a secret.
Alessandra Taylor is a free spirit, black sheep of her family.
When their paths cross - it is completely magical.
Wishes in a Bottle is a fantastic mix of realism, magic, and romance. I had a hard time putting the book down and I am anxiously ready to start the next book!
Julian DiConti is a handsome, sensitive, and caring man with a secret.
Alessandra Taylor is a free spirit, black sheep of her family.
When their paths cross - it is completely magical.
Wishes in a Bottle is a fantastic mix of realism, magic, and romance. I had a hard time putting the book down and I am anxiously ready to start the next book!
February 16, 2021
A wonderful story, full of tragedy and triumph, love and laughter, magic and mystery. A poignant tale that had me choked up and then chuckling. Great characters loved Jacinth. The author has created an interesting, entertaining and engrossing story with a glorious ending. I am looking forward to reading more
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
July 9, 2021
Wishes in a Botlle, the first book in the Wishes & Dreams trilogy by Allie McCormack, is a romance novel that like some thrillers keeps the reader in suspense, wishing everything ends well for Julian and Alessandra and dreaming of finding our own bottle with a Djinn within.
The tension escalates as Alessandra makes her wishes. I recommend having a handkerchief on hand from the second wish!
The tension escalates as Alessandra makes her wishes. I recommend having a handkerchief on hand from the second wish!
February 19, 2022
excellent
Totally unique and totally romanic! I love this story so much. If you are wondering, I can say you will love the characters. Anyone would love the romance and the pulling back before it is too graphic was a plus I did not expect. There is a happy ever with a zing allowing for more. Just excellent all the way around!
Totally unique and totally romanic! I love this story so much. If you are wondering, I can say you will love the characters. Anyone would love the romance and the pulling back before it is too graphic was a plus I did not expect. There is a happy ever with a zing allowing for more. Just excellent all the way around!
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