I’ve never read the Count of Monte Cristo, but I’m always down for a retelling. Anyways, the plot was unique when it mattered, I loved Noor (she should’ve been the fmc, tbh), and the romance was freakin amazing! like I can’t describe how perfect they were!!! I’m definitely buying this when it comes out!

**Review of *For She Is Wrath* by Emily Varga**

Emily Varga’s *For She Is Wrath* is a fierce, unrelenting tale of vengeance, power, and reclaiming agency in a world rife with corruption and betrayal. This dark fantasy novel centers on Kaela, a once-broken woman who rises from the ashes of her past to become the embodiment of wrath itself.

Varga’s prose is sharp and visceral, perfectly suited to the intensity of Kaela’s journey. The world-building is equally vivid, filled with grim landscapes and intricate political dynamics that mirror Kaela’s inner turmoil. As she confronts those who wronged her, Kaela’s transformation from victim to avenger is both cathartic and thought-provoking. Her character is complex, walking a fine line between justice and moral ambiguity, which adds depth to her narrative arc.

The supporting cast is equally compelling, with allies and enemies who each play pivotal roles in Kaela’s quest. However, the pacing occasionally falters, with certain subplots feeling rushed or underexplored. Despite this, the central story remains gripping, fueled by themes of empowerment, resilience, and the costs of seeking retribution.

*For She Is Wrath* is a bold and brutal story that will resonate with fans of dark fantasy. Varga’s fearless storytelling cements her as a powerful new voice in the genre.

3.5/5 stars
I liked this but it didn't blow me away. I felt like the character development was a tad rushed and so the shift in the main character was a bit unbelievable to me, I also think I have mixed feelings about using flashbacks as plot devices especially when it comes to romance.

Great fantasy read! Loved the plot of this book! It felt fun and easy to get into! Loved the romance elements in this book! Felt like they were well done and the characters had good chemistry! Definitely recommend reading this book!

A Pakistani romantasy reimagining of the Count of Monte Cristo - I loved this book so much. The strong heroine, the enemies-to-lovers, the revenge lit, chef's kiss!

Was not expecting to like this as I am sort of burnt out on fantasies—they’ve just gotten really repetitive and boring for me.

This was not that.

I finished this in 24 hours and I will be reading it again. Totally original with interesting takes on time honored tropes we all love. Plus LOTS of amazing representation!

4.5⭐️

I want to thank everyone for this gifted copy of For She is Wrath.

I was really excited about the prospect of this story, but it just didn't really work for me. I just felt like the plot was lacking in places and didn't find it exciting. I ended up DNF'ing at 25%.

The concept of this story is so fascinating, but the characters and developments for them fell flat and the pacing was off. I needed more on Noor and more development on Maz and Dani. The time jumps and time frame didn’t really make sense. Also, what happened to the cat?!

Emily did a fabulous job with her debut which reads more as a fantastical female story of revenge than a debut novel. I had high hopes from the sight of the cover and was not disappointed.

This book was the perfect embodiment of female rage! I absolutely loved Dani and all her sass! 😂 This book was perfectly paced and definitely exceeded my expectations for a standalone fantasy! My only complaint was that there was slight repetition of conversations in the middle between Noor and Dani. Other than that I absolutely loved it and would definitely recommend 😊

WOW. What a debut from Emily Varga! This was such a clever updating of the Count of Monte Cristo, with a badass girl who's allowed to seek vengeance but who also finds love and healing. A swoony romantasy with clashing swords and innovative world-building. Cannot wait for whatever comes next.

Thank you to Wednesday books and the author for an advanced copy of this book.

This book had it all for me. Female rage, women supporting women, character depth and growth, romantic subplot, cultural magic system. It honestly blew me away. Also, I loved the writing. Dania is the perfect antihero turned hero. And Noor wins the award for best supporting character.

I didn’t see the twist coming, and I felt it surprising but also that it made so much sense.

5 stars

I really struggled to really like this one. I had a hard time with all the violence, which I understood was part of the journey of this book, but it felt really gory for me.

As soon as I discovered that this is A Count of Monte Cristo retelling, my interest in the novel spiked. A retelling of my favorite classic? Yes please! I am so relieved that it did not let me down. The author kept just enough plot beats from the classic to provide captivating allusions for those who love the original while making the story her own and believably shifting the genre to fantasy. I really enjoyed how the main character learned significant lessons concerning
revenge even though the twist at the end felt a little too convenient and a way for the author to conceivably wrap up the plot. I liked what she did but wish she could have embedded a few more clues earlier in the narrative. I'm really glad that this book finished my reads for the YA fantasy list.

This was a really gripping story of revenge and why it’s not the right answer. It was well thought out, and once the revenge plot got going I became really invested in it.

Emily Varga’s For She Is Wrath is a dark, gripping tale that combines elements of thriller, fantasy, and mythological reimagining. The novel follows the journey of a fierce, complex protagonist who embarks on a path of vengeance after the traumatic loss of her loved ones. At its core, the book is a study of grief, rage, and the blurred line between justice and revenge. Varga does an excellent job exploring the psychological toll of vengeance and the ways it can consume a person, all while immersing the reader in a world that is both haunting and beautifully crafted.

The prose is sharp, with Varga’s writing leaning into vivid, atmospheric descriptions that make the world feel alive and tangible. The pacing is deliberate, building tension steadily until the explosive climax. The protagonist’s inner conflict is expertly portrayed, making her both relatable and formidable. However, some readers may find the pacing slow in parts, especially during the more introspective sections of the novel.

Ultimately, For She Is Wrath is an emotional, intense exploration of human nature, justice, and power. Varga’s ability to create morally complex characters and a compelling narrative makes this book a standout in its genre. A compelling, atmospheric novel that will captivate readers who enjoy dark, character-driven stories about vengeance and redemption.

They said count of monte Cristo retelling and I was sold but this was so original in its own way that keeps you pulled through the whole story

3.5 stars

Thank you Netgalley and St. Martin's press for the eArc.

Unfortunately this book was not for me. It wasn't a bad story but it just didn't catch my attention. I ended up not finishing it.

Thank you to @netgalley and Emily Varga for my ARC of For She is Wrath.

For over a year Dania has been in prison for committing a crime she didn't commit, surviving on the hope of one day seeing her father again and getting revenge on those who betrayed her, including her first love, Mazin.

When a fellow prisoner reveals she knows the location of a secret djinn treasure, the two plot their escape, and their revenge. When their vengeance becomes complicated due to a treacherous heart and the dark magic threatens to consume Dania, she must decide if getting revenge is worth losing her humanity.


I really enjoyed this revenge girls retelling of The Count of Monte Cristo! It was a beautiful depiction of generational trauma and the female friendship between Dania and Noor was wonderful. I would recommend it to anyone who loves angry MCs and fantasy!

I loved the stunning cover, a badass heroine, and djinn magic. However, the way it was worn made me want to roll my eyes constantly. I thought it was overly overdramatically overwritten. But everyone I know loved it, so check it out yourself.