Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher who allowed me to read this book in exchange for an honest review.

Lore of the Wilds is a solid romantasy debut! I found the premise really intriguing, and I really enjoyed Lore as a character. The way the book ended— whew! I was expecting SOMETHING, but not that much of a twist! I will definitely pick up the sequel when it comes out because I need to know what’s next!

As for any criticisms I have, I’d say the pacing of the story threw me off a bit, and this book sometimes feels like it’s a prequel for whatever is coming in the next book. I also think the book could be great in the YA category if a couple small tweaks were made regarding brief sexual content. I think it would appeal greatly to a YA audience!

Overall, I hope the characters and their relationships develop even more in the next book, I look forward to reading more from this author!


3.5 stars (rounded up to 4)

A solid debut fantasy! I enjoyed the premise and the magic system, but felt it difficult to connect with the characters. I wish it had been marketed as YA… I think younger readers would’ve liked this story.

Thank you to the publisher for this ARC in exchange for an honest review.

Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for providing an ARC in exchange for an honest review.

"Lore of the Wilds" by Analeigh Sbrana is a captivating fantasy novel that weaves a tale of magic, danger, and the complexities of Fae-human interactions. The magic system in the book offers a fresh perspective on fae and faeries, adding a layer of intrigue to the narrative. Sbrana's world-building skillfully creates a land ruled by ruthless Fae, and the enchanted library becomes a focal point of tension and mystery.

The protagonist, Lore Alemeyu, is a compelling character with a satisfying growth arc. Her journey from a desperate deal with a Fae lord to navigating the hostile world outside is thrilling and emotionally resonant. However, Lore's indecisiveness in matters of the heart may frustrate some readers, as her romantic entanglements feel a bit wishy-washy and driven more by external factors than genuine connection.

Despite this minor flaw, the strength of Lore's character development shines through, making her a relatable and engaging lead. While somewhat disappointing, the plot twist is overshadowed by the overall story arc's strength and the chemistry between Lore and the two dangerous Fae males. The author successfully builds tension and keeps readers on the edge of their seats.

In "Lore of the Wilds," Sbrana crafts an enchanting and perilous fantasy world. While the romantic aspects may have room for improvement, the unique magic system, well-developed characters, and compelling plot make this book a solid four-star read for fantasy enthusiasts.

4.5 stars!! What a book!! Enchanted libraries, humans and fae, diverse characters, strong FMC, and a great ending! I loved this.

I was immediately pulled into this. A world where humans are trapped and surrounded by fae seemed so unique. The world building was solid and easily understandable, and the magic system was simple, but great nonetheless. Each of the characters has their defined personalities that stood out from one another, and our main characters was fantastic. She embodied the strong FMC spirit perfectly, while also showing her fears and vulnerabilities. And the diversity of the characters in this was *chef’s kiss*. And the ending?!?! What a fast-paced and unexpected cliffhanger. The only reasons this wasn’t a 5 star read are sometimes the pacing slowed down too much for my liking, while others felt a bit rushed.

I highly recommend this one and will be eagerly awaiting the next book!!

Thank you to Avon and Harper Voyager and NetGalley for the eARC. All opinions are my own and freely given.

I’m conflicted because there were parts of this book that I really enjoyed, and parts that I didn’t.

I thought the world was unique and complex and I enjoyed exploring it. The world itself was lush with distinct differences in each location as well as the people that inhabited the area.

HOWEVER, we bounced around from place to place so quickly that we didn’t have enough time to explore the locations with the characters.

The book at times felt like 3 in 1 shampoo. WAY too much going on in such a short amount of time. Nothing had time to be flushed out. The content in this book could have easily been spread over two books.

The ending twist was really well done, I didn’t suspect it at all. Honestly might be the only thing that has me interested in reading book 2.

Thank you to Avon and Harper Voyager for allowing me to read this book early in exchange for an honest review.

This review was posted to Goodreads

I am torn.

This book started as a 5 star read. A plucky young heroine, with dreams of exploration and freedom for her people. An interesting religious and social order. A tempting mystery outside the walls. And then the events, the task, the library, the castle, the book!

And then…things start to go downhill a bit and I find myself rooting for the ship to right itself. What’s with the unthinking devotion from Asher? Wait, Lore wants to be a healer now? I thought she wanted to explore? Are we not going back directly to Duskmere? Why is Lore just falling for any damn guy she sees? I mean girl, if constant fear can’t keep it in your pants, nothing can.

And unfortunately, I saw some people say the end was “such an amazing twist omg!”…but I say, “oh look! A twist that makes no sense at all with the entire rest of the plot!!” The ending took what I was certain was a 5-star book, that had slipped for a 4-star, perilously close to a 3-star.

HOWEVER. I do recommend this book. Why? I absolutely love that this book shoots for the stars (eh!!) and sometimes fulfills that ambition…with tons of wonderful brown fantastical characters that I really enjoyed. We need more heroines, more brown heroines, and more brown love interests in Fantasy (my god, we need it so bad) and plenty of Lore of the Wilds is very good. And for a DEBUT author? I’d say VERY good. While I do think some of this novel slipped in the second half, I will absolutely consider reading the sequel and will keep my eye out for Ms Analeigh’s books in the future!

I would give this book 3.5 stars. I really liked this book. There were a few times where I wish we had gotten to see more of the interactions between everyone in the book. It seemed a little rushed in places. The world building and magic system is nicely balanced with plot and story movement. There were so many times I needed to stop reading but couldn't because of how invested I was in certain parts. This book leaves you with a lot of unanswered questions and a HUGE plot twist that I did not see coming. I cannot wait to get to learn more about this world and the characters.

Thank you NetGalley and Harper Voyager for this ARC!

It’s been awhile since I’ve picked up a book and gathered from the first chapter that I would love it. Lore of the Wilds is a wistful, cozy fantasy brimming with romance, whimsical characters, a stunning landscape, and a page-turning story to be appropriately lost in. Fantasy readers of all appetites, from cozy fantasy to romantasy, will indulge in this beautiful debut.

The premise: an enchanted library and magic spurned on by a book. A magic-less human, Lore, stumbles into a foreboding, forbidden world of faeries across the border of her homeland, Duskmere. And as she acquaints herself with the library’s whims, she acquires a mysterious fae shadow, Asher.

The storytelling, from cover to final page, drew me in by Lore’s fledging knowledge. Sbrana ushers you into the landscape through the competent eyes of our main character, a window for the reader to be introduced to every thread of magic, fae politics, and intriguing side characters. Lore’s fascination with the unfurling magical forest around her is palpable in Sbrana’s writing—the tastes, smells, everything was so beautifully vivid.

Tropes romantasy readers will enjoy:

- forbidden love
- taverns
- THE QUEST
- whimsical cottage-core worthy landscape
- libraries *filled with BOOKS*
- speaking of libraries, MAGIC BOOKS
- sweet, unrelenting tension

I am already eager to have my hands on the next installment, and currently deliberating how I can put down this wholly unforgettable story Sbrana has created before I settle for my next read. A thrilling debut, indeed!

(Review will also be posted on my Instagram page, closer to the release date)

Analeigh Sbrana dazzles with LORE OF THE WILDS, a fast-paced fantasy sure to bewitch you from the very first page.

Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for an ARC. All opinions my own.

I have to say the cover of this book is absolutely GORGEOUS

This is cozy cottage core fantasy. Our female MC is extremely likable. Her dedication to her people and community is admirable and one of the reasons I really tried to hang in and finish the book. Unfortunately at the 63% mark I had to DNF.

I believe the pacing of this is what ultimately hindered my enjoyment. In some areas I felt we were breezing through and in other areas I felt we were dragging our feet. For example, the romantic connection seemed a bit inauthentic and rushed. I think more time in the castle, building angst and memorable interactions between our MCs could have been beneficial. The enchanted library was AMAZING and such a cool concept. I wish we had more time there. (Seriously, the library of my dreams.)

Once we leave the castle that is where the story begins to drag and things become a bit disjointed. It felt obvious that some characters were introduced just to dump info and exit stage left. There was a romance scene that felt a bit forced.

Overall, I think this book just wasn’t for me. I can, however, see those apart of the cozy community loving it.

This was wonderful! I had such a great time reading it! I was hooked from the very beginning and I couldn’t stop reading. The cozy vibes were a 10/10! Also, can we talk about the gorgeous cover?!

I really enjoyed following Lore! She is so determined and selfless. Without even thinking twice, she will do what has to be done to help the people she cares about!

The world building was so well done & the magic system was easy to understand. The history of Duskmere is so interesting & mysterious. I loved getting to learn about magic right alongside Lore. I’m a sucker for magical books & libraries so I couldn’t get enough of this!

The side characters were great too! Isla is so fun & I want to be her friend. I need more of her in the next book! Asher was gentle & I liked how he helped Lore but that’s all I’ll say about him! Now for my favorite, Finn! He’s grumpy but also has a soft side! I loved seeing him & Lore interact with each other! It’s always one step forward & two steps back with them. Loved it!

I do think this should have been a little longer. There were some important scenes that happened way too quick and easy. I would have liked for things to be drawn out over a few chapters rather than a few pages.

The ending was wild and I didn’t see it coming. I literally had to go back and reread to make sure THAT really happened! I cannot wait for the next book. I have so many questions that I need answers to!

The premise for Lore of the Wilds immediately grabbed my attention—libraries and fae? With promise of some steam? Sign me up!

The first chapter was very slow, with a lot of history and lore thrown at the reader, but things quickly picked up once Lore makes it to the castle and starts exploring the library.

The love triangle between Lore, Asher, and Finn never felt fully fleshed out, but I did enjoy her individual relationships with both fae. There was one steamy scene, but I would have loved to see things go further (honestly with either love interest). Maybe in the next book!

There’s a big twist at the end and while I didn’t predict it, it also wasn’t shocking.

I really liked Lore as a character and would die for Isla—I’m hoping she plays a bigger role in the sequel!

Overall, this was a fun read, but it definitely feels like a lot of it was setting things up for book 2 vs being a complete story on its own. I definitely think it was worth the read and am planning to pick up a finished copy once it hits the shelves!

Thank you to NetGalley and Harper Voyager for the ARC, all thoughts are my own.

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5

A phenomenal romantasy debut featuring a magical library, two fae beings and a human who will bring them all together!

This book felt like a warm hug on a cold winter day, despite some of the high stakes that took place.

I felt the beginning started off a little slow and it did take me a while to get into it but once I did I couldn’t put the book down! Lore of the Wild is told in 3rd person POV which is one of my favorite POV’s to read!

I think the worldbuilding was done really well and the story and magical system was easy to understand and follow.

I loved the multiple relationships we got in this book, my only complaint is that I would’ve liked just a little more, just a few more pages showing how much these characters cared for each other, regardless of that I think their characterisation was done so well, showcasing how each of these characters evolved as the book progressed.

As I said in the beginning, this was a phenomenal debut and the cliffhanger will leave my mind spiraling for days!

I can’t wait to see what Analeigh Sbrana has for us in store next! I can only imagine it will be as addictive as their debut!

Also can we just talk about this gorgeous cover for a second because the words gorgeous and stunning don’t even do it justice!

Thank you to Harper Voyager, Analeigh Sbrana and NetGalley for providing me with this e-arc in exchange for an honest review. It was much appreciated and loved!

4.25⭐️

This was an excellent debut novel! This was pitched to me as a “cottage core romantasy” and it did not disappoint! The vibes were cozy while also containing a high stakes plot that kept me turning the pages.

I thought the pacing was a little slow at first but the story really starts to pick up around the 40% mark. The author does a great job worldbuilding and the story was very easy to understand. The descriptions were detailed and had me immersed in the story from the very beginning.

My only complaint would be the romance that didn’t feel entirely fleshed out. The attraction was there but I really didn’t get a full grasp on their relationship(s) (YES PLURAL!) because of the relationship development. I needed more details behind the other characters to really feel connected to them.

The story is told in 3rd POV from Lore’s perspective. It might’ve been beneficial to have the story told through the lens of a couple other characters so I could understand them better.

Overall, this was a really strong debut and I can’t wait to read the next book! (Especially because of that cliffhanger). I imagine we will see this one featured in special edition book boxes next year and it’ll become quite popular on social media. Don’t miss out on this one!

Thank you to NetGalley, Harper Voyager, and the author for a free copy in exchange for an honest review.

Lore has always felt the call of the forest beyond her town. It’s been three years since her first and only attempt to escape Duskmere, a town of humans trapped in the middle of fae lands. One day while working at the apothecary, she catches the eye of a fae lord. When he sends a sentry demanding that the owner of the shop leave with them, Lore lies to save her aunt. Now she is being sent to his manor catalog the enchanted library that no fae can enter. Lore has finally left Duskmere, and she has a chance to be more than she ever imagined, but danger and deception lurk around every corner, will Lore have the courage and wit to save her town and herself?

I really enjoyed this story. I love Lore. I love how practical and real she feels. I really enjoyed seeing her grow throughout the book. I really love the world. I think the magic system feels very original. This was such a refreshing take on a human being thrust into the world of fae. I definitely plan on reading the next book, because that cliffhanger is crazy!

I only have two real complaints about the book.
1. I was struggling to place what this was trying to be. I felt for most of the story it read very YA. I think it fit the category, especially the faster pacing and time jumping. However, this is a sex scene in this book, which did not feel like it belonged with the tone of the rest of this book.

2. I really wanted this to be longer. I feel like so much was glossed over for the sake of keeping the story going, but I honestly feel like this would have thrived as two books instead of one. It felt like so much was happening in the last third of the book, and I really wanted to slow down to see the characters develop more. I think some emotional beats didn’t hit as hard because we just didn’t have the pages to really develop. I wanted more of Lore in the library, more of Lore learning about the book and the magic, and Lore *SPOILER* rescuing Grey was too fast and easy. I feel like that should have been drawn out, and honestly that could have been the climax to book one. Everything after that I wanted to take place over an entire book. I just wanted more of everything.

Overall, this is fantastic. I cannot wait to read more from this author. I definitely will buy a copy when it is published.

Thank you so much to NetGalley and the publisher for the arc in exchange for an honest review.

This book was not what I expected. I’m glad I had the opportunity to read it.


This is a mesmerizing introduction to the world of Romantasy blends a magical library, two attractive Fae beings, and a human who unites them all. The library possesses a deadly curse, while a Fae lord seeks entrance. Meanwhile, a brave young woman is willing to risk everything for a taste of power. In a realm governed by merciless Fae, the village of twenty-one-year-old Lore Alemeyu is confined within a forest prison. Escaping the village is futile; her scars bear witness to her previous failed attempts. However, when her village is threatened, Lore strikes a desperate bargain with a Fae lord. She agrees to depart from her home in order to carefully categorize and arrange an ancient library, untouched for a millennium. Although no Fae may enter the library, there is a small possibility that a human could break through the cursed doors. She convinces the Fae lord that she is willing to risk her life in exchange for riches, but secretly she desires the one thing the Fae most covet: magic of her own.
As Lore navigates through this perilous journey, the engrossing chemistry between her and the Fae becomes impossible to resist. Yet, not only is her life at stake, but also her heart, which she struggles to entrust to these unreliable creatures.

The CHARACTERIZATION is something I adore and I could go on and on about the EVOLUTION OF THE CHARACTERS. Lore, a fantastic FMC, is young but doesn't display excessive naivety or immaturity. However, she isn't distrustful or cruel in any way. Her personal growth throughout the story is significant and it's delightful to accompany her through her journey. Her interactions with the other characters flow naturally and, if I may say so myself, seem genuine. The incorporation of attraction, love, and passion into the narrative is remarkably well-executed. Each member of this closely-knit group, who are somewhat like a chosen family, possesses a vibrant description and a lively personality. It's particularly pleasing to see LGBTQ+ representation included, even if it may not be explicitly depicted in the text. Hopefully, we'll delve into some romantic pairings in the sequel!

Rating: ★★★★.5

"Lore of the Wilds" invites readers to embark on a mesmerizing journey through a realm where the untamed forces of nature intertwine with magic, giving birth to a world rich in mystery and wonder. This fantasy novel, crafted by Analeigh Sbrana, captivates the imagination with its lush prose and intricate storytelling, drawing readers into a realm where the Lore of the Wilds comes alive.

The narrative unfolds in a land teeming with mythical creatures, ancient spirits, and enchanted landscapes, all of which are masterfully woven together by the author's vivid and evocative descriptions. From the towering trees that whisper secrets to the celestial beings that govern the night sky, every element in this fantastical realm feels alive and imbued with a sense of ancient magic.


"My favorite stories are the ones I can escape into. The ones I can leave behind this bleak existence and be somebody else, even if its just for a little while. Someone braver than me. Someone with the power to change their circumstances."


The protagonist serves as a compelling guide through this mystical world, her journey becoming a metaphorical exploration of self-discovery and resilience. The character development is skillfully executed, with protagonist evolving from a curious wanderer to a formidable force entwined with the very essence of the Lore of the Wilds.

One of the novel's strengths lies in its intricate world-building. The author has crafted a universe that feels both expansive and cohesive, with each new revelation adding depth to the lore. Whether it's the history of the mythical beings that roam the forests or the origin of the magical artifacts that dot the landscape, every detail is meticulously thought out and seamlessly integrated into the narrative.

The plot, while not entirely groundbreaking, is elevated by the rich tapestry of the setting and the depth of the characters. The pacing is well-balanced, allowing for moments of quiet reflection and intense action. The novel also explores themes of harmony with nature, the consequences of unchecked power, and the interconnectedness of all living things.


"Thank you. Both of you. Come back, okay? Don't leave me here forever."
"Never."
Asher leaned in, pressing the lightest of kisses to her lips.


While the prose is generally engaging, there are moments where the descriptive passages might border on excessive, slowing the pace of the story. However, for readers who appreciate lush and immersive storytelling, this might be more of a feature than a flaw.

In conclusion, "Lore of the Wilds" is a commendable addition to the fantasy genre, offering readers a chance to lose themselves in a world where the Lore of the Wilds reigns supreme. With its enchanting prose, well-developed characters, and captivating world-building, Analeigh Sbrana has crafted a tale that will leave fantasy enthusiasts yearning for more adventures in the mystical realms of the Wilds.


Thank you to Netgalley, Avon and Harper Voyager, and Analeigh Sbrana for a copy of this ARC in exchange for an honest review.

Overall, Lore of the Wilds is really promising and I really liked it. I loved the dark cottagecore vibes and the enchanted library and all the different places we got to see. My only problem with this book was pacing. I feel like the story moved very quickly at times and we didn't get to stay in any plot line for long. Due to the pacing issues, I feel like there weren't enough character interactions for the story to have its full emotional impact. I think Lore of the Wilds would have really benefited from a longer book as it would allowed the story to take the breaths it desperately needed to. It almost feels like the book covered too much in a short amount of pages. I will say that I didn't see the cliffhanger coming so I'm very excited to pick up the second book.

Where do I start? This is great fantasy book. The characters are phenomenally written. Lore is compassionate and brave. She cares so much for those in her poverty stricken town. She doesn't hesitate to strike a bargain with the fae lord when given the opportunity to save those she holds dear, despite the obvious danger. When she discovers she is the only one who can enter the enchanted library, she begins searching for power of her own. As the story builds, she finds her attraction to her two unlikely companions growing. The world building and story telling is beautiful. The story is compelling. I am so grateful to have been able to read this story.

Thank you to Avon and Harper Voyager for the e-arc in exchange for my honest review!

I had a really fun time with this story! Despite the plot meandering at times, I appreciated the time skips so we were not fed boring filler...however at the same time I think some of the bigger details of the world could have been developed a little more. Are there parts of the plot I am a little unsure about? Yes. Would I consider them a plot hole? Not necessarily, I feel like certain aspects will be more developed or explained in the next installment. (Like the whole Asher thing near the end...no spoilers but I have *questions*) The author had to set the stage. I feel like this book's goal was for you to become attached to Lore and the other characters so that you follow them through!

Lore and all the cozy "life" moments throughout the story are really what sold this for me. I am usually a higher fantasy gal and so I was hoping for more at times but the intimate aspects of this story kept me engaged despite me not having a lot of background information.

I will definitely be adding this book to my shelves and continuing on with the story! It was an entertaining debut!