Don't let the pink cover fool you, this book is full of mystery, a few deaths, and a bit of romance. Lovett is a silkwitch which means her hair can be used to create magical things, but only by a male Weaver. At 18, Lovett only has 3 years to find a husband or she will be sent to the cloisters where no one has ever returned from. After trying to steal from the wrong person, Lovett is pulled into a contest to find the Weaver King's son a wife for the second time. Eliott, the man Lovett tried to rob, has entered Lovett to help him try to discover who killed his sister in the last contest. Will Lovett be able to solve the crime, will she end up in the cloisters, or will she find a husband along the way?

This was such a lovely fantasy read! The Weaver Bride really leans into the norms of this genre in a way that feels so familiar and comfortable; but at the same time, Gregovic has crafted a wholly unique and intriguing magic system.

Right off the bat, the story took off, and we got to witness some top tier banter and chemistry between Eliot and Lovett. Their dynamic was so fun to witness, and they really and truly ticked each other off from the first page (what more could you want?!). The actual setting of the novel was also so interesting. There was the glamour of the estate, but there was also the darker underbelly that grounded it and added the stakes and intrigue. The story also unfolds as you go along, revealing bits and pieces of the mystery, and I enjoyed the twists and revelations along the way. My favorite piece, though, was the magic system. I loved the individuality of it and was curious to see how it all played out (and was not disappointed in some of the bigger revelations either...).

One thing I will say about this book, though, is that it felt very much like a Lovett-centered narrative with not a lot of detail into the side characters. Each of the girls was super interesting, especially with their respective Wits (or magical talents), but we don't see a whole lot of development within the other girls or between them and Lovett. It wasn't necessarily a huge negative for me, but it is something to note if you're someone who really loves a full ensemble. The trials of the competition themselves are also more like games, I think. There were some moments of high-stake tension (and they had me fully hooked, let me just say!), but to fully enjoy them, I think it's best to go in thinking of them as challenges as opposed to true death-defying trials and competitions (well, for the most part. Again, the moments of action totally delivered when they came into play!).

When all is said and done, this was a really fun take on a common fantasy premise, and I really enjoyed being in this world for a bit! Thank you to NetGalley, Random House Children's Books, and Delacorte Press for the chance to read this ARC in exchange for my review.

The pretty cover (and OMG how pretty is this book? 5 stars to the designers!) is what drew me in, along with the intriguing description, but the plot is what kept me going! I'm a sucker for a good YA fantasy romance, but especially if it has a some level of games or trials, so this was right up my alley! I ended up giving this 4 stars, but while reading it there were times it felt more like a 3 star simply because of the repetitive nature of some her writing (for instance I'm pretty sure she used the exact same wording multiple times to explain how dark and rainy outside it was or describing how the rain was hitting the window in the same way chapter after chapter), or simply the similarity of the basic plot to books I've recently read (I read Weaver Bride pretty soon after reading The Rose Bargain and there are so many similarities I was a little thrown off at first), however I did really enjoy the magic system, the subtle (well, not so subtle) feminist themes, and the main characters. I've read Lydia's work before and really enjoyed it, and I can say without a doubt that she is a great writer, she really does pull you into her worlds and make you fall in love with her characters, even (if not especially) the side characters. The only thing that really prevented me from fully falling in love with this book aside from the repetitive nature and similarities to other recently released YA books, is the pacing of the book, and overall plot outlining. Without spoiling anything, there were times that a portion of the plot was so drawn out, but then really important things seemed to be glossed over very quickly, particularly the ending and "twist" style reveal-however this could be because the ending leaves it VERY open to a sequel (scratch that, this REQUIRES a sequel) so perhaps the author was rushing it all so we would feel ready for the next book to really delve further? That seems right, but man I haven't heard anything about a sequel and it would be upsetting if there isn't one considering it ends a bit cliffhanger-y (and this same thing happened to her last book and there also hasn't been a word on sequels with that one). This is me begging Lydia, WRITE SEQUELS NOW PLEASE! Anyway, I actually did love this book, I really loved the world, but WOW did I love the magic system and lore!!!! The whole weavers and silkwitches concept, phew that was unique and I really truly loved it, especially with the feminist themes woven through. (Being vague on purpose because its really worth reading and finding out on your own!) The side characters and the MMC's really shined, and I wanted more of all of them! AGAIN TICK TOCK LYDIA-GET TO WRITING! Especially setting this in the time period it was in, I was hooked. But our MMC, Eliot Lear, wow. I wanted more and more and more of him. As the blurb mentions, he wants our FMC, Lovett, to enter a competition for Noe's hand, which comes with protection and wealth, but in reality he really wants her to aide him in investigating his sisters death as she was a previous participant in this same competition. The mystery aspect of this book is really its strong suit, and kept me guessing (largely incorrectly) the entire time. Especially how the other girls powers (Wit) helped throughout. Lovett was truly intelligent, clever, stubborn and everything I've been wanting to read! I loved the competition and games aspect, but unfortunately this book is yet another where the games and trials really don't affect the plot or its outcome in any way. Why are there so many YA trials/games books lately that don't deliver on that? But I digress, Eliot and Lovett have chemistry, tension, banter and yearning-everything you want in a regency-ish witchy mystery romance, and I'm looking forward to seeing how that relationship can develop in the next one, because we did not get enough of it. They really were perfectly matched in every way. Noe, the rich weaver (male sorcerer) that this competition is based around, was CHEFS KISS! I can't say much more without spoiling the plot honestly, and I popped an allergy pill to deal with this awful Spring pollen season so I'm very much rambling here, but 4/5 stars, can't wait to read more from this series, and from this author in general!

This book is expected to come out in September, and I urge you all to try it for yourself! Thank you to Lydia, Delacorte Press, and NetGalley for this ARC! All opinions are my honest ones, and I am very grateful to you all! <3

*And sorry for the allergy induced rambling of this review lol

When I see a pink or pretty book cover, I have to request it! The Weaver Bride is a romantasy you won’t be able to put down.

What is love without a little betrayal?

Lovett is a silkwitch who uses her gifts to steal from wealthy families. Things go wrong when she steals from the wrong person, Eliot who is the son of a prominent weaver. She’s given the chance to enter the Vainglory and compete. Will she win the marriage competition?

This is book is different from anything I’ve read in a long time. So different and interesting. I love how it was part romance and part mystery. I really hope there will be another book!


Thank you NetGalley, Lydia and Random House Children's Books for the eARC!

Publication Date: September 30 2025
Rating: ✨✨✨

#TheWeaverBride #NetGalley

This is a really good book. I enjoyed the magic system. I enjoyed the interesting take on how magic is collected and used in this world. The main character was definitely a strong female character, and I enjoyed reading her figure things out. There is a murder mystery to this book and she must figure out what happened and who she can trust.

This book was amazing. Such a unique magic system. There was magic in the pages. Thanks so much for this ARC!!

“I have a feeling you’re able to open a great many doors, Miss Lovett Tamerlane,” he went on, gazing down at me. “Perhaps you’ll even open one for me.”

rating: 3.75
after reading lydia gregovic's debut novel, the monstrous kind, i was excited to see what she would write next.

the weaver bride is like gothic bridgerton meets the bachelor with a murder mystery and fantasy. i found the magic system really interesting; the silkwitches are women born with magic powers (Wit) and spotted by their glowing hair, which can be used to transfer their powers, while the weavers are the male sorcerers who they must be married off to in order to avoid being locked up far beyond when their powers fade around 25.

“With silkwitches about, a man may never be sure whether his thoughts are truly his own.”

lovett, a resourceful pickpocket with the Wit to open any door locked or not, is propositioned by Weaver Eliot Lear to help solve the murder of his sister in a competition the year before to marry, Noé Alaire, his best friend and son of the most powerful Weaver.

i found the magic system original and the various powers different silkwitches had was interesting, including the charmed objects that could be made from their powers and how it was were harnessed. the mystery kept me interested in the story and i really couldn't put this down, with maybe a slight lull in the story around 60%. i enjoyed the setting, the writing, and the lush descriptions.

some things that didn't work for me: i found the romance was a bit fast-tracked for my liking, i wish there had been more development between lovett and eliot. i even wish there was more of a love triangle w noé considering he's the fiancé she's vying for - and we don't know his guilt or innocence. dorian also was an intriguing character but we just didn't get enough of him (how're you gonna say he's the most beautiful man she's ever seen and then barely feature him???).

i also felt like there was some info dumping in the beginning and the reveals toward the end were simply told. i also wanted to competitions to up their game a little.

“You are far too interesting to be good, Lovett.”

overall though, i enjoyed the cliffhanger ending and i do want to see what's going to happen in book 2 👀

an honest arc review ♡

The Weaver Bride by Lydia Gregovic
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5| 🔥.5

The Weaver Bride is a story that leaves the reader spellbound. Silkwitches are special, their hair holds magic and each has a unique power. But their power can only be fully harnessed by a Weaver, and there are far more silkwitches than weavers. If not wed to a weaver, a silkwitch is deigned to a life locked away.

We follow a particularly prickly and clever silkwitch–Lovett Tamerlane. She lacks all things society expects a suitable match for a weaver husband to have: status, money, and the refined manners of a lady. While Lovett is resigned to never finding a weaver husband, she refuses to be locked away in the cloisters. Those who enter the cloisters never return. Instead, she uses her unique ability to unlock any door to try to live life as someone without the burden of magic. At first, Lovette is successful, hiding the gleam of her magic hair and using her power to steal from wealthy families. However, success leads this clever witch into a trap when she attempts to steal from the wrong man, the son of a weaver.

He offers her a bargain: for helping her enter a competition to marry the heir to the wealthiest Weaver family, she must help him learn how his sister died at that same competition the year prior. Lovette accepts but soon learns the competition is ruthless and opening some doors opens oneself up to love, knowledge, and betrayal.

This book has crossed my mind often since finishing it weeks ago. It is a refreshing entry for the genre, with a poignant social commentary woven into the story and a mysterious plot that sweeps the reader off their feet. The author has heavily hinted that another installment is coming (I volunteer as a tribute to read any version). I promise you, too, will be slack-jawed and running to the author’s Instagram for updates after reading the ending!

This read is perfect for fans of The Cruel Prince, The Crimson Moth, The Selection, or anyone who loves a snarky, smart girl who refuses to accept the hand life has dealt her. Thank you to Penguin Random House and the author for an eARC.

Okay this one took me a bit to warm up to, but that ending has me wanting more!

Honestly the writing is gorgeous, but what had me hesitating was the world building. As I read I kept feeling like there was something missing. I never quite understood what Alair's family importance was since we never are shown only told that they're powerful but like how? How is their power used in this society?

The trials aspect wasn't my favorite, but the mystery and interactions with other characters kept my reading. I loved the feminist themes throughout the novel.

The set up for a sequel leaves so much room for the story to take us to some really interesting places. I hope we get to see more of how this world operates.

Overall, I really enjoyed this book. Definitely, recommend to fans of romantacy.

The Weaver Bride - Publishing September 29th If you like trials, mystery, hidden identities, forbidden love, yearning, and a genuinely original plot line, this book is for you. Down on her luck, Lovett is a silk witch who is desperately trying to find a weaver husband before her 21st birthday so that she doesn’t end up shipped to the cloisters. Not made for popular society, Lovett has turned to dealing in secrets and theft. When an attempted theft goes wrong, she is offered a bargain. Eliot, a weaver, will enter her in an elite competition if she uses her skills to reveal the circumstances around his sister’s death, and in exchange he will ensure she marries. While Lovett detests Eliot, she can’t pass up the opportunity to join society and secure her future. Competing against nine other silk witches for the hand of the Weaver King’s heir, Lovett finds herself in a far greater, and much more dangerous situation than she had planned. This book is well written and has amazing world building. Hooked to the end, I was SHOCKED by the conclusion.

I thought this was a really fun story!

I am really glad that I knew going in that this would be a series and not a standalone otherwise the emotional damage of the ending would have GOTTEN ME.

I thought the writing was beautiful and the magic and the world was really unique. I really enjoyed Lovett's character and how much it felt like she grew from the beginning of the story. I am really excited to see where this will go!

Thank you so much to Random House Children's Books and Delacorte Press for this eARC in exchange for my honest review.

From the very first page. This book sweeps readers into a vividly imagined world where magic pulses beneath every shadow and destiny hangs in the balance. With a rich tapestry of lore and an unforgettable cast of characters, this fantasy tale offers everything fans of the genre crave: adventure, heart, and high stakes.

At the center of the story is a compelling hero grappling with inner demons and outer threats alike. Their journey from humble beginnings to a confrontation with fate is as thrilling as it is emotionally resonant. Along the way, a diverse ensemble of allies and enemies deepens the narrative, each one distinct and integral to the story’s unfolding.

The bachelor but if there was magic and if it was kinda deadly. I couldn’t put it down but damn, that ending got me down bad. I need a book two immediately.

Honorable mention to this quote that truly wrecked me:
“You are ruining me.”
“And you think you’re not doing the same to me? Do you really believe I want to think of you as often as I do?”

Thank you so much to NetGalley for an ARC in exchange for a review!

Let me just say - wow. I was originally drawn to the book because of the stunning cover, and then the summary had me wildly intrigued. As a huge fan of The Selection, I love a good marriage competition game, and the murder mystery aspect was a nice touch. While reading, I LOVED the banter, the twists consistently surprised me, and the world was altogether beautiful. This is one of the best fantasy books I've read in the last few years. I can't wait for its release and for book two.

I've noticed a common complaint amongst other reviews was a lack of character development, but I think the FMC was really well done. First of all, the book takes place over less than a month, so there isn't much time for development. Secondly, I think that since it is a first book, the development should happen later on. I love that the FMC was consistently true to herself - it will be interesting to see if she lets go of any of her toxic traits or becomes more cemented in her personality. I really got strong "Aelin Galathynius" vibes and I LOVED it.

Overall, 5/5 stars.

I am really enjoying this book. I unfortunately am DNF because this is the type of book that needs to be read physically and write notes about.

The fantasy world is interesting and complex. The writing is a flowy overbundance of words that confuse my simple brain.

I don’t like fantasy books but I am loving this one and can’t wait to finish reading it when it’s published!

I was drawn to The Weaver Bride from how beautiful the cover and stained edges are. I cannot wait to own a physical copy of this title.

The Weaver Bride exceeded all my expectations. Lydia Gregovic crafts a rich, immersive world where magic intertwines with societal expectations, and every choice carries weight. The author makes these choices carry weight in an era where a lot of stories are feeling too similar lately.

The protagonist, Lovett Tamerlane, is a silkwitch with the unique ability to open any door—a gift that serves her well in a society where unwed silkwitches face confinement. Her journey begins with a heist gone awry, leading her into the enigmatic Vainglory competition, where marriage to a powerful Weaver is the prize. But beneath the surface lies a gripping mystery: the death of Eliot Lear's sister in the previous year's competition. Eliot's proposition to Lovett—to help uncover the truth—adds layers of intrigue and tension to the narrative.

What sets this novel apart is its intricate magic system and the depth of its characters. The relationships are thoughtfully developed, with a slow-burn romance that feels authentic and earned. The dynamic between Lovett, Eliot, and Noé Alaire is particularly compelling, adding emotional complexity without overshadowing the central plot.

The pacing is well-balanced, with the initial chapters setting the stage for the high-stakes competition and the ensuing mystery. Gregovic's prose is evocative, painting vivid scenes that draw readers into the story's gothic atmosphere.

If you're a fan of romantasy with strong female leads, unique magic systems, and a touch of mystery, *The Weaver Bride* is a must-read. I eagerly await the sequel to see where Lovett's journey takes her next.

The Weaver Bride is a YA fantasy with gothic elements and a central mystery that keeps you engaged. The prose is excellent, and the author's descriptions of the setting were so well done. The marriage competition and trials gave Bridgerton/Regency era vibes, but it also has a really sinister and creepy undertone. The magic system is really unique, and the unraveling of the conspiracy had me desperate to keep reading. I highly recommend this to fans of One Dark Window and Divine Rivals! Definitely recommend grabbing a copy of this one when it comes out!

Thank you to Netgalley, Random House Children's Books / Delacorte Press, and the author for this arc!

[3.5 stars]

I found the premise of the story to be very unique and interesting. I like the concept of silkwitches and magic being imbued with hair, which is (to me) such an indigenous belief that is almost at odds with this pseudo-historical French setting. I do wish that we had a little more worldbuilding. I wanted to learn more about Wits and how they developed. We also know a lot about the concept of weaving and woven objects/talismans, but we don't actually see any weaving.

The highlight of this novel, however, is the characters and their dynamics with each other. I absolutely adore Elliot and Lovette, though I found their development to be a little rushed and lacking. There's an instant mutual attraction between them, and through their banter, the reader is supposed to surmised that they like each other despite their uncanny ability to get on each other's nerves. I still think there's room to develop that relationship further. I also did like Noé and Lovette, and I can see the potential in their future partnership together.

I thought the ending was a little anti-climactic. The stakes were initially high, but then the reveal of the big secret didn't live up to those high stakes. I am definitely interested in reading a continuation of this story!

Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for providing me with a digital ARC.

*3.5 stars*

I'm not sure how I feel about this book; I think it's good, the worldbuilding was very original (though there wasn't a lot of it) and the characters were okay. I particularly enjoyed the mysteries here, but I didn't mind the romance since I found it a bit lacking, and the ending felt pretty anticlimatic to me, like the closure we got was weird and it could've been wrapped up in a much better way. There were multiple plot points and characters that were left hanging and I didn't really understand why. Overall it was an okay book for me and I would be interested to read more from the author, because I think based on the plot of this novel she has great potential!

I really enjoyed this book! The magic system was super unique and made everything even more fun to read. I also loved the whole competition challenge piece and how she used it to dig into who might’ve killed Eliot’s sister — it kept me hooked.

The ending wasn’t what I expected, and I’ll admit I was a little disappointed at first… but finding out there’s going to be another book totally boosted my rating! I’m so excited to see where the story goes next!

Thank you NetGalley and Random House Children's Books for this ARC!