This book pulls you in right from the start and keeps you hooked. Hazel, a Cinderella-like character, finds herself cast out with nowhere to turn when a man offers her a deal she can't refuse.

What starts off feeling like a fairytale quickly leads Hazel into a journey filled with challenges and difficult choices. The world-building is unique, and while there are echoes of myths and legends, the story stands strong on its own. Hazel is a compelling narrator. The story is clean, with just kissing, though there is a brief unwanted kiss. Themes of greed and morality run throughout, and while I wanted more closure and revenge, it’s still an engaging read. I’m excited for the next installment!

The idea of a mysterious traveling Bazaar full of dangerous enchantments and trickster merchants? Totally my kind of story. And Hazel, desperate and determined, made for a compelling heroine at first. But as beautiful and rich as the world was, the plot sometimes felt like it wandered more than it built. The stakes got muddled, and the romance—while atmospheric—didn’t have quite the emotional weight I was hoping for. The King of the Bazaar was intriguing but veered a little too close to mysterious-for-the-sake-of-it. I really wanted to love this one, and I did enjoy the imagery and whimsical danger, but it didn’t leave a strong emotional mark. If you like dark fairytales with lush settings and morally gray bargains, it might still be a fun escape.

Thank you NetGalley for the opportunity to read this book.

This one fell a bit short for me. I did read it really fast, but I didn't particularly ever find myself immersed or in love with the story. The setting was magical if a bit underdeveloped but the problem for me was with the characters. They just seemed so flat, one-dimensional, and bland. I didn't believe in the couple's romance and it kind of took me out of the story.

I do think that fans of Stephanie Garber's Caraval series might like this if they go in with reduced expectations.

The plot is good, the cliffhangers not surprising but well done. I liked the characters even though maybe they’re all a bit cliche. I felt like the love story was a bit too rushed but why not. It was alright!

I was surprised when I read this because i had different idea of what this book was going to be about. I enjoyed it and gave it 3 stars.

These Wicked Stars by Catelyn Wilson is a captivating tale that will sweep readers off their feet, particularly those who crave immersive fantasy worlds, swoon-worthy romance, and thrilling adventures, making it a perfect fit for fans of young adult fantasy and romance enthusiasts who delight in stories of magic, gods, and the eternal struggle between fate and free will.

The cover and premise was what initially drew me to this book, but I struggled to get through it. I wanted to like it, but I found myself getting annoyed with the naiveté of the FMC and also just being bored.

This was a dnf for me, the pacing felt really slow and i could not stay interested in the story and it felt too similar to caraval

🌟 Unravel the mysterious allure of These Wicked Stars by Catelyn Wilson, a tale that will whisk you away to a world brimming with magic, intrigue, and unforeseen twists.

🔮 Step into a realm that feels like a whimsical echo of Caraval by Stephanie Garber, with its own unique enchantments and enigmatic characters waiting to be discovered.

📖 Dive into a narrative that is more story-driven than character-focused, offering a captivating plot that keeps you turning the pages in anticipation.

👥 While the characters could benefit from more fleshing out, their journeys and interactions still weave a compelling tapestry of secrets, desires, and betrayals.

🌌 Brace yourself for a rollercoaster ride through a world where gods and power usurpers play a dangerous game, leaving you breathless as you try to navigate the intricacies of the mesmerizing magic system.

🎭 Hazel Blackthorn, the resilient protagonist, is determined to escape her oppressive life and secure a future with her secret fiancé. But when her plans unravel, she embarks on a perilous journey to the mythical Bazaar, where nothing is as it seems.

🔥 As Hazel delves deeper into the heart of the Bazaar, she must navigate treacherous alliances, confront ancient secrets, and confront the enigmatic King of the Bazaar, whose motives remain shrouded in mystery.

🔍 Prepare to be spellbound as Hazel races against time to unravel the truth and reclaim her freedom, grappling with questions of love, sacrifice, and destiny along the way.

💫 With its richly imagined world, intricate plot twists, and compelling themes, These Wicked Stars is a must-read for fans of fantasy and intrigue alike. Don't miss out on this captivating journey into the unknown!

This book was a bit meh for my taste. I am an avid fantasy reader and this was not as much to my taste. However, the idea behind this and some aspects of this story were great!

I loved the premise of this book with the MC going on a quest to a magical bazaar. I thought the story was original but would also appeal to fans of Caraval. I am~hoping~ for some more character development in the next installment. I also did not like how the MC was so naive but overall this was a quick and enjoyable read.

This book was boring for me!! I stopped at 40% I couldn’t finish it!! I didn’t like the story at all

Sadly this one uses cliches to describe the setting and the character's reactions are much like every book in this genre. The grammar is in need of some editing. The cover is beautifiul though.

-liked the twists and mysteries
-the shadowed man that followed her was missing details
-had an interesting take on the underworld
-Hazel for me felt a little bit too naive and too trusty
-Hazel seamed to always hide behind the excuse of her mom's past and the mark she has on her because of that
-loved the world building
-definitely curious about what's happening next
-characters are good but feel a little under developed

I honestly could not put this one down once I started it. I love this kind of story: intrigue, mystery, dramatic romance, and NO CLIFFHANGER even though it's part of a series! Great read, definitely recommend it.

"The Bazaar of Shadows" promised a captivating magical adventure, but unfortunately, it didn't quite deliver. The pacing felt off, with moments where the story lost momentum. Additionally, the main character's immaturity and naivety were frustrating. However, the world-building and the intriguing magic system provided enjoyable aspects. While this book had its flaws, I'm still curious to see where the series goes in the next installment.

The premise, synopsis, and cover drew me in. However, the story was not fast paced or intriguing enough to keep my attention. It was just an okay story and a struggle to finish.

I finally got around to reading this one, and sadly, I could have done without. I couldn´t really connect with the characters and wasn´t drawn to the plot. It felt only like an okay read to me.

This book was so good thanks so much for the copy I really enjoyed this so much along with the writing definitely will recommend

Okay, I really wanted to love this book. The premise sounded good and the synopsis really drew me in. However, when I started the book, it was just.... not what I expected. I struggled to get through it, and I think this is because of some of the characters. While the storyline was very promising, to e, the characters felt a bit flat. I did finish the book however, and I think it was good, just not for me

2/5 Stars

Thank you Netgalley for the Arc.