A beautifully original Robin Hood retelling with magic and heart

Wench surprised me in the best way. It takes the bones of the Robin Hood legend and reshapes them into something fresh, magical, and emotionally rich. The found family dynamic was easily one of my favorite parts, the kind of messy, loyal, chaotic group that feels instantly real. The magic system is wonderfully imaginative, and the lyrical, almost poetic writing style gives the whole story a dreamy, folkloric atmosphere.
My only reason for not giving it a full five stars is the pacing. There were stretches that felt a bit too slow for me and it occasionally pulled me out of the momentum of the story.
Still, the originality, the voice, and the emotional depth more than make up for it. If you love retellings with a twist, magic woven into every corner, and a cast that feels like home, this one is absolutely worth reading.

Thank you Avon and NetGalley for an eARC of this book!

A retelling of the Robin Hood fairytale from the perspective of Maid Marian is such a fun concept and I couldn’t wait to read. Off the bat, this story had absolutely beautiful and immersive writing. The author delivers such rich storytelling and atmosphere throughout the passages and despite my personal opinion of the tense choice not being my favorite to normally read, the writing pulled me back in 100%. This is a story about perseverance and growth, and I love a strong FMC who works to unlearn the negative frameworks she was taught to believe throughout her life (aka the fae are evil).

I wasn’t completely hooked on Marian and Lox’s romance at first as it felt a little sudden (I’m a slow burn lover through and through), but i enjoyed their banter and their romantic development overall. Marian’s relationship with the Merry Men was also very cute and fun the closer they all grew. I think it was such a great added detail with the fantasy element to reimagine Sherwood Forest as another “character” in the sense that it was a magical, sentient force. The twist and stunning imagery in the final few chapters made for a very beautiful ending as well.

“Steal from the rich, give back to the forgotten” … “That sounds like a tale that will live longer than we do”. Chef kiss!! I’m a sucker for when stories make references to the original subject matter. What a great debut!

Fun retelling. Marian's character development was great to see. The side characters were also very lovable.

This was an absolutely stunning, lyrical, and cozy read that completely swept me away. It’s a Robin Hood retelling told through Marian’s eyes, and it feels both familiar and fresh in the best way.

Marian begins the story shaped by fear and rigid beliefs, especially when it comes to the fae. She’s been raised on warnings and half-truths, taught to see Sherwood as something dangerous and corrupt. Watching her worldview slowly unravel was one of my favorite parts of the book. Sherwood isn’t just a forest—it’s a living, breathing place full of warmth, magic, and people who don’t fit the stories she’s been told.

Her connection with Lok (Robin) develops gently and naturally, with a softness that perfectly matches the tone of the story. There’s a subtle pull between them that leans into fated mates without overwhelming the narrative. The romance is tender, rooted in trust, choice, and growth rather than urgency.

What really made this story shine for me was the theme of transformation—of planting yourself in new soil and allowing different roots to grow. Found family, hidden identities, and the idea of choosing your own future are woven beautifully throughout the book. The writing itself feels almost poetic, making this a book you want to savor rather than rush through.

If you’re looking for a cozy, magical retelling with heartfelt romance, gentle fantasy elements, and a heroine discovering who she truly is, this one is absolutely worth picking up. It’s comforting, enchanting, and quietly powerful.

Thank you to Netgalley and Harper 360 | Avon for the ARC!

As soon as I saw this was a Robin Hood re-telling, I was intrigued. I love a good Robin Hood story. Add in some fae, magic and romance and I was sold on giving this one a read. And, for the most part, I very much liked this book.

What I liked: Marian coming into her own, the excellent (beautiful) writing and the spin on Robin Hood and his Merry Men.

What I was meh about: the romance. Look, I liked both of the MCs, but their romance didn’t make my heart clench. I wished there was more development there and we got to know more about Robin/ his past.

However, the writing really set this book apart. Sure, the romance was a little weak, but I teared up several times reading this story. My heart ached for Marian and all the other women who were taught to be quiet, to behave, to be passive. There were some lines in Wench that stood out and lingered with me after reading. (I should’ve highlighted my favorite lines, but I forgot and also, I am not one of those people who makes notes when I read usually). I know this is a book I will want to revisit in the future.

Overall, a lovely story. 4.25 stars out of 5 (rounded down to a 4 because I am forced into whole numbers)

This is a review of an advanced reader copy received through NetGalley and the publisher.

Whoa.

This book blew me away. It is a Robin Hood retelling. It hit the plot beats I wanted it to hit, when I wanted it to hit them. The pacing was quick, which worked for the overall tone of the book.

This book has the mental visual vibes of movie Robin Hood Prince of Thieves combined with the Lord of the Rings chapters about Lothlorien, with a dash of Fern Gully and Captain Planet. It reminds me how those stories made me feel while adding the uplifting 2026 feminist, mental health positive messaging I needed as a teenaged girl in the 90s. The writing style evoked in me the same feelings that Jane Austen’s does.

I liked all of the side characters – I thought the writing drew on what I know about the “Merry Men” from Robin Hood and building on that with gentle twists that made them fit for our current time period so they fit into this unique story. Allen, Little John, Will reminded me of the best aspects of friends I’ve had throughout my life, friends who are immediately loyal like Allen and Little John, and those whose friendship has to be earned, like Will. I like it when books include characters who are non-binary, and I appreciate authors and publishers who are inclusive.

Similarly, the world is easy to slip into – most of us have some frame of reference for Sherwood Forest and for a general idea of forest fae. The book masterfully builds on those concepts while adding its own layers of history and other dynamics internally.

There are gorgeous moments in this book, that I will try not to spoil. It had some of the most wonderful, affirming language, like: “Shame is a poor shepherd.” “You were told twisted tales; not because magic will eat you alive, but because those in power feared what you might build if you learned how to wield it.” “And she is so very tired of fighting the things her body needs.” “Growth does not seek permission. It merely arrives with its own expectations.” “I long for the ease with which you and your people move through joy without apology.” “Don’t ever apologize for surviving.”

This book helped me to chew on some big feelings about indoctrination into cultural norms, the mantle of societal expectations, parental choices, shame, masking, and the rage that comes. It helped me in that way that I think fairy tales have always helped take big feelings and give them words and stories to help us digest them in ways our brains can make sense on. It let me read words (as quoted above) for emotions that I have been chewing on, in a story form that my brain could effectively take in.

All in all, I think this book is amazing. I will be reading the author’s other books, and I am grateful for the advanced reader copy through NetGalley.

This was a great twist on the classic Robin Hood. I love how the author mixed the story perfectly with fae and fantasy elements to create something unique and fun to read.

Wench

From the classic fantasy-world-narrated prologue that gave me Cate Blanchett vibes to the ending lines that gave me happy goosebumps, this book made me want to crawl into Sherwood Forest and stay there. It had me screaming and remembering who I am: a Robin Hood lover. Lox is a new, sexier, dark-haired take on the character that gives both shadow and druid daddy. He’s so powerful but gentle, and I just swooned every time he and Marian interacted. Now, let’s talk about our heroine. She is such a spitfire and stunning character. I absolutely loved her inner battle between what she was told and grew up knowing about Sherwood and the Fae, what she’s seeing unfold right before her eyes, and how she’s constantly challenging and restructuring her beliefs. And, let’s not forget our Merry Men! They are both so familiar and so new. I could tell just from the descriptions who was who, but being reintroduced to these characters felt like reconnecting with lost friends I had left behind when I was young. We’re all different people now, but their core is still there. The banter, the antics. This may be a different version of the story, but it’s no less full of that heart and humor we love from the Robin Hood tales. Kelley Armstrong’s writing is so vivid and full of prose that I forgot I was sitting on my couch reading a book. The Sherwood Forest she has created and the faeries that live there are so beautiful and perfect, not just in a physical way. They are the forest; they’re covered in moss and vines, and their appearance represents different aspects of nature and the forest, which I find reminiscent of Brian Froud’s artwork. This is a wonderful book. It’s got the world-building and classic fantasy that I loved growing up as a kid, while also mixing in the spice, romantic tension, and banter that I’ve come to love in my books as an adult. I very quickly added Erynne Rivers (and E.N. Haysch) to my “If She Writes It, I’ll Read It” list. This is only her debut, and oh my goodness, I can’t wait to see what she does next!

Romance Level: 5/5

Magic/Fantasy Vibes: 5/5

Spiciness: 3/5

Banter & Humor: 5/5

Pacing: 5/5

I thought that this book was a good retelling of Robin Hood. However, I did start getting a little bit bored with the book during the middle of the book. The middle felt a little bit too slow compared to the beginning and the ending. The middle did make me lose interest in the book a little bit, but the majority of the book was really good.

⭐️ 3.75 Stars

The first thing that caught my attention about Wench was the cover , it’s absolutely gorgeous and fits the atmosphere of the story perfectly. It immediately made me want to pick it up.

The beginning was a little slow for me, and it took some time to fully get invested in the story. Once the plot started moving, though, I found myself much more engaged. There were a few moments that stretched my suspension of disbelief, especially regarding Marian’s abilities and how quickly she adapted to certain situations despite everything she endured. Some of the twists were also fairly predictable, but they didn’t take away too much from my enjoyment.

What truly stood out was the writing. The prose is beautiful and almost lyrical at times, making even quieter moments feel meaningful. The atmosphere was incredibly well done, and the themes surrounding womanhood, anger, and feminine rage added a lot of depth to the story.

Marian could occasionally frustrate me, but I also understood many of her decisions and motivations. She felt flawed and human, which made her easier to connect with even when I didn’t always agree with her actions.

Overall, Wench wasn’t perfect for me, but the writing, themes, and emotional depth made it a worthwhile read. The story gave me plenty to think about, and I can definitely see why so many readers connect with it.

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

Wench is a Robin Hood retelling told from Maid Marian’s perspective, and it completely swept me away.

I’ll admit, I rolled my eyes a little when I realized fae were involved. The market is saturated with fae stories right now, and many of them tend to blur together. However, Rivers takes a different approach, drawing from older English folklore traditions rather than modern romantasy conventions. The result feels fresh, atmospheric, and wonderfully suited to the story being told.

The prose is absolutely gorgeous. Ethereal and poetic without becoming inaccessible, the writing creates a dreamlike quality that perfectly complements the presence of faeries and folklore. Rivers’ command of syntax and punctuation is particularly impressive. The rhythm of the prose feels deliberate and immersive, enhancing both the atmosphere and the emotional weight of the story.

The novel is written in present tense and close third-person limited POV—two stylistic choices that don’t always work for me. Yet here, they felt entirely natural. I was so immersed in Marian’s perspective that I stopped noticing the mechanics of the narration and simply experienced the story.

The romance develops beautifully. The attraction between the characters feels organic, arising naturally from shared experiences and growing emotional connection. Even the spicier scenes feel earned and woven into the narrative rather than existing solely for shock value or fan service.

Most importantly, this is one of those books that is incredibly easy to lose yourself in. I repeatedly told myself “just one more chapter” and ended up reading far longer than intended. At one point I literally fell asleep with my phone in my hand.

Wench delivers gorgeous prose, immersive storytelling, compelling romance, and a satisfying ending that ties everything together beautifully. If you’re looking for a folklore-rich fantasy romance with strong atmosphere and a fresh take on familiar legends, this one is well worth picking up.

Wench by Erynne Rivers is an exceptional debut, transforming a familiar tale into something entirely unexpected, but fantastic nonetheless.

What if Maid Marian was a human, betrothed to the most vial man in Nottingham, the Sherrif, AND what if Robin Hood was actually a fae, protecting Sherwood Forest? What would happen when they crossed paths???? Something absolutely magical!!

The writing was lush, weaving lore surrounding the fae and Sherwood Forest naturally throughout the story. Marian’s misconceptions were unraveled with each detail that was revealed, too. The concept of the Rootkeeper/Shield and the Heart breathed life into the story. For a debut novel, the fine line between world building and info-dumping wasn’t crossed, which was impressive. As for the plot itself, I thoroughly enjoyed the intricacies of Marian finding her footing in the fae world alongside the building war between the two sides.

Onto the characters, Marian was everything you’d want a FMC to be and more!! Coming from a background of forced obedience from her father and the Sherif, she fights to find her strength and independence the longer she stays in Sherwood Forest. You root from her from the first page to the last, and I left feeling inspired to be like her, strong and soft hearted at the same time. Robin/Lox is given more background than the Disney retelling, a weight on his shoulders that adds depth to the character. Their romance was a slow burn, but one worth waiting for. The Merry Men- Allen, Little John, and Will- had larger roles in the story, building friendships with Marian that made the story. Character growth was essential to the plot, but it never felt forced either. You’re going to love these characters!!

Wench easily earned its spot on my all-time-favorites list! Thank you to Harper 360, Avon, and NetGalley for the ARC. Wench is available October 13th wherever books are sold, and I highly recommend grabbing a copy!!

So many things in this book I adore. Folktale retelling, banter (familial and romantic), beautiful descriptions. I couldn’t ask for much more than that. This was such a refreshing take on the Robin Hood story too, not just fae added to the world but a whole magical world of theirs beside and separate from what we know. So too do I love prologues that share histories or folktales of their own as this one did.
Review to be posted to Instagram mid-September

Loved! Loved! Loved!

I’m not a huge romantasy fan but once I heard this was like the cartoon Robin Hood I needed to read it. I was not disappointed! I loved the world and the characters. I thought the magic and the fae were really well done. The writing was great and super addictive. The romance will have you swooning and the adventure wooing.

Wench is a reimagining of Robin Hood, where magic flows and duty clashes with desires of the heart. The fae and humans have been fighting over land and its resources, each harboring generations of hate towards the other. Marian was raised to fear the fae, as the daughter of a prominent man, she was raised to be obedient and meek. When her wild spirit angers the sheriff, her father accepts his bribe, an arranged marriage with his only daughter. On her way to the church, her carriage is attacked, and she’s taken deep into the forest by the fae. Forced to remain in the village, Marian begins to learn more about their culture and about the mysterious magical forest that surrounds them. Fearful of the fae, she remains wary as she waits to escape home. She’s determined to survive, to stay cautious, but her determination begins to falter as she spends more time with their leader Robin.

This reimagining had the sweetest romantic plot and found family dynamics I’ve read in a while. I loved the sentient forest and the forced proximity between the main characters. Marian is a headstrong character determined to make her own choices, and Robin is the duty-bound leader who can’t help but be drawn to her. The world was interesting, and the plot sets up a sequel perfectly. You can’t help but want to see their story continue. I secretly hope the author writes a sequel focused on the supporting characters.

Overall, this story makes a great romantasy book companion! If you like reimagined stories of classic tales, you’ll enjoy this one. It’s a fantastic debut, and I’m already looking forward to what the author writes next!

For readers who enjoy a romantasy reimagining of Robin Hood, fae stories, magic, and found families

I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. This is an advance reader copy (ARC) and may contain errors or changes before final publication. My review is voluntary and reflects my personal thoughts.

Wench is a bold, engaging fantasy that combines sharp humor, strong character work, and a refreshing take on familiar fantasy tropes. Rivers creates a memorable heroine whose journey is both entertaining and empowering. Packed with adventure, wit, and heart, it's a fantasy that's easy to get completely invested in.

The cover is truly stunning and was what drew me in, but I also cannot believe that this is a debut, much less a debut romantasy, because it was really good and those are notoriously hard to pull off, especially on your first try. Credit where credit is due because this was fantastic and although I am not a huge romantasy girl, I enjoyed it immensely.

My favorite thing was that this was a retelling of Robin Hood. I LOVED that concept, and think it was executed well for the most part. The way it is written is just such beautiful prose with flowy words and a lyrical way of telling the story, which I really enjoyed. I also loved the messaging within this book; so many lines I could highlight that resonated with me and were deep and meaningful. The romance was magical and without spoiling it, it was surprising in the best way. I thought the worldbuilding was really great and again, hard to pull off but the author excels here. I really loved how folklore based this was and rooted in fairytales because I think this element really elevated the story and immersed me in it.

If I had a critique or two, it's this: the pacing was a bit off, in that it was slow and then really started to gain momentum later, which is great but took me some time to get into. Additionally, Marian frustrated me sometimes BUT to be fair, I would probably act the way she did too if I were in that situation. I'd like to say I wouldn't, but let's be real... I would.

I would highly recommend this is you are looking for a romance rooted in folklore and fairytale, a retelling of Robin Hood, magical elements, an amazing debut romantasy, and so much more.

Thank you to NetGalley, Erynne Rivers, and Avon for the eARC of this book.

Wench by Erynne Rivers Book Review:
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/6 Stars

If you tell me a story is a Robin Hood retelling, I'm already sold! Wench completely swept me away with its lush writing, unforgettable characters, and romance that had me kicking my feet from beginning to end.
Robin and Marian's relationship was everything I wanted it to be. Their chemistry was electric from the moment they met, filled with tension, longing, and so much undeniable affection. Every stolen glance, every protective moment, and every declaration of devotion had me absolutely swooning. Robin's fierce protectiveness balanced so perfectly with Marian's journey from a quiet, obedient young woman into someone who stands her ground with courage and confidence. Watching her come into her own was one of my favorite parts of the story!
The writing itself was beautiful. Sherwood Forest felt so vivid and immersive that I could practically feel the magic woven into every scene. Erynne Rivers has a way of crafting descriptions that completely pull you into the world, and the quotes about love, loyalty, and devotion were absolutely stunning! The supporting cast also deserves so much love because they each brought personality and heart to the story and made the adventure even richer.
As for negatives...I honestly struggled to come up with any. The pacing kept me completely invested, and I found myself eager to keep turning the pages. If I had one wish, it wouldn't be to change anything about this book but to simply have more of it! I would absolutely love a sequel because I don't feel ready to say goodbye to these characters, and I think their story still has so much more to tell.
If you're looking for a beautifully written Robin Hood retelling filled with swoony romance, unforgettable characters, gorgeous prose, and a heroine who grows into her own strength, Wench absolutely deserves a spot on your TBR!

*Thank you to NetGalley for the ARC!*

Thank you to NetGalley and Avon Books for providing me with an ARC in exchange for my honest review!

First of all, this cover completely sold me. Then I heard the words Robin Hood with fae, and I knew I had to read it.

The pacing at the beginning was a little slow, but once the story found its footing, it flowed much more naturally and became difficult to put down.

I did struggle with a few elements that felt a bit unrealistic, even within the fantasy setting. For example, Marian possessing better skills than trained soldiers seemed a little far-fetched, especially considering how she ended up in her situation to begin with.

That being said, I absolutely adored the writing. I’m still shocked to learn that this is a debut novel! The world-building is phenomenal, creating an immersive and magical setting, and the romance was simply chef’s kiss. I can’t wait to see what this author writes next.

must say the cover is gorgeous. ❤️
This retelling of Robin Hood was better than expected. The writing was almost lyrical. Beautiful.
Marian is not my favorite FMC at first. She does grow on you as the story unfolds. I loved the fae aspect to Lox and his people. All of Lox's people were great. Even Will.
The slow burn tension between Lox and Marian is good. The chemistry is 🔥. The story progressed as expected overall. Even knowing what was going to happen, I still flew through the pages.
There were some plot holes revolving around Marian towards the end. She suddenly could out fight soldiers and still fight with mortal wounds. However, it did not take away from the overall story.
Thank you to NetGalley, the publisher, and the author for the advanced reader copy.

thank you netgalley and avon publishing for this arc.

robin hood retellings will always have my heart and this one will definitely be added to the recommendation list. this was such a unique take on the classic tale with the inclusion of the fae, magic, and a forest ready to consume you. the world building for this was incredible and these are definitely not the robin hood and merry men you remember. these are creatures of forest and magic sharpening their teeth on your bones. marian embracing the chaos of the fae/magic and choosing her own path was so engaging to read. everything about this story was exquisite. a must read for romantasy lovers.

🏹🍃 Wench 🍃🏹

📖 Bookish Thoughts

My full review will be shared closer to the publication date.

✨ What to Expect
• Robin Hood Retelling
• Fae Romance
• Captor Romance
• Forbidden Love
• Sherwood Forest
• Morally Gray MC
_ _ _ _

📅 Pub Date: October 13, 2026
Thank you to Harper 360, Avon, and NetGalley for the advanced copy.

Wench by Erynne Rivers takes a familiar legend and quietly sharpens its teeth, dropping Maid Marian into a version of Sherwood Forest that feels less like folklore and more like a living, breathing threshold between fear and truth.

Marian’s journey begins with constraint. She’s being forced toward a marriage she never chose, to a man tied to power and cruelty, and the path she’s sent on cuts directly through fae territory. From the outset, the story frames her as someone whose life has already been decided by others, until that narrative is violently interrupted.

When she’s taken by the Merry Men, the tone of the story shifts. What she expects to be captivity becomes something far more complicated: exposure to a world she has been taught to fear, and people she slowly begins to understand on their own terms. The fae in this retelling are not decorative magic creatures but fully embedded in the moral ambiguity of the forest itself.

Robin, in particular, is written with that layered “captor as contradiction” energy. He is dangerous, yes, but not flatly so. His presence forces Marian to constantly reevaluate what she believes about power, loyalty, and control. Their dynamic leans heavily into tension and restraint, with trust forming in uneven steps rather than clean emotional arcs.

Marian herself stands out most when she stops trying to be obedient and starts reacting with instinct. Her growth is less about becoming someone new and more about shedding expectations that were never hers in the first place. The “feminine rage” threaded through her choices gives the story a strong emotional undercurrent, especially when she begins to challenge the roles imposed on her.

The Sherwood setting is one of the strongest elements. It feels textured and intentional, almost shifting depending on Marian’s understanding of it. The forest isn’t just scenery; it’s a kind of witness to her transformation, with magic woven into its atmosphere in a way that keeps the world feeling slightly unstable, always one breath away from revelation.

The romance develops through friction rather than clarity. It’s built on hesitation, shifting allegiances, and moments of unexpected softness that break through otherwise guarded interactions. While the pacing in the early sections can feel slow, the story eventually finds its rhythm once Marian fully steps into the world she’s been pulled into.

As the external conflict tightens and forces converge on her location, Marian is pushed toward a decision that isn’t just about survival, but identity: who gets to define her life moving forward, and whether fear or choice will shape her future.

By the end, the story leans into a more emotional, almost wistful resolution, leaving enough space for interpretation while still grounding Marian’s arc in a sense of self-recognition rather than obedience.

Thanks to Avon & NetGalley for the ARC!

It’s been a while since I’ve read true Romantasy and this absolutely hit the spot! The setting, the magic, the bond to nature? Exquisite. I loved that this was a standalone and that the story felt complete.

The way this is written in 3rd person present tense was a nice surprise as it felt different to what I’ve experienced within the genre. This narrative choice meant that I felt right there in the action scenes and just generally overall I thought the writing was strong, well-paced and fresh. Rivers avoids too many overdone tropes and formulas but still gives readers what they want from the genre.

Beware… this was spicy! I think Lox is now up there for me on the official roster of book boyfriends - antlers and all.

Marian was a very capable FMC and I enjoyed her growth and self-belief in this story. Her actions didn’t come from poor judgement and her decisions seemed justified and understandable when survival was her priority. I sometimes struggle with feeling irritated by overly naïve female leads in Romantasy, but I’m happy to report that I was rooting for sturdy Marian from start to finish.

The surrounding cast of characters were also great, particularly Allen! I loved the found-family aspect and the fae customs and ceremonies.

Some readers who are hoping for a true Robin Hood retelling may be disappointed, as I felt like this was its own story. I think I would have preferred if the character and place names taken directly from Robin Hood were changed or even just altered to sound more fae, as this broke immersion for me at times.

Wench is a cozy-adjacent Robin Hood retelling with fae, found family, and a beautiful woodland atmosphere. The writing feels like a love letter to the forest.

The FMC felt real in moments like her initial distrust of the fae (and their food), her excitement over pockets, and learning self-defense. I loved the theme of choice and agency.

The romance is insta-love, but I blame the woodland magic. I wish we’d gotten more of Lox and the Merry Men. At times, the writing felt like a debut novel, but I’m excited to see what this author writes next. The ending was predictable but satisfying.

Content notes: attempted sexual assault, violence, and open-door spice.

This surprised me in a good way! I thought it was just going to be a Robin Hood retelling with more fae but it was much more than that. For a standalone, Marion had a solid amount of development and I appreciated that she was flawed and struggled. If you enjoy the writing style and prose of Rebecca Ross, Adrienne Young, or Rachel Gillig I think you will really enjoy this. I can see why someone else might not enjoy the prose or might find the early part of the story a bit boring but I prefer a story that builds so it worked for me.

This wasn't a full 5 star read for me because, while I enjoyed it, I think the fact that it was a standalone made the pacing just a little off for me. I enjoyed the slowness of the beginning but with the breakneck speed of the latter part of the story it just felt a little disjointed. This is just a personal preference but the romance was very slow burn until it absolutely wasn't and I think I would have preferred it if we hadn't had as much romance and had kept the pace from the first part or developed the story more so that it could have been more books. This also meant that the relationships of the secondary characters also were a little underdeveloped and I would have loved to see more of Will, Little John, and Allen with each other and also with Robin.

Overall though I think this is absolutely worth a read especially if you love books that feel like a fairy tale and getting lost in a lush dark forest where the forest might bite back.

"If you burn, i will burn with you. If you rise, I will rise beside you. If your soul splinters, mine will catch the shards. That is my bond. That is my vow. You do not walk this path alone." ♡
First off, the cover of this book is BEAUTIFUL. LOVE.
The writing style and the characters Idiolect was something different for me and took a small amount of adjusting. Once I got through that initial hump, I was IN LOVE.
A magical forest that listens, decides and intervenes.
A journey of discarding the only habits and beliefs shes ever known and turning her pain into unstoppable purpose. Her meeting someone that stokes that fire and believes in her made my heart hurt, in a good way!
There are so many different highlights where the writing just made me feel, made me think.
♡"Maybe the problem is that mortals see what they fear, instead of what's real"
♡"The stories you were fed had fat trimmed off the bone untill only teeth remained "
♡"Mercy is our first blade, because justice without cruelty takes discipline. Its choosing when to stop when rage begs you to keep going"
Thank you so much, Netgalley! This Arc was beautiful and im looking forward to getting my hands on a physical copy ❤️

As a retelling, the author balances the new with the old while giving us the points of the story we showed up for. Favorite characters are there, villains are villainous and they were all so much better than I could have hoped. I loved reading this, and felt so connected to the underlying themes of the greed of men and the freedom of nature. The characters carried the myth of a story that has been around for ages while being different from any version I’ve seen before. This was both cozy book in the woods, and epic fantasy that takes on the man. I loved some of the choices the author made with the structure of the book, how descriptively alive she was able to write Sherwood forest, and the genuine connections she was able to form between characters that are easy to fall in love with. This one is definitely going on my “books to re-read” list!

Thank you to NetGalley for giving me this ARC in exchange for an honest review.

This is the best fantasy book I read this year. I love that it's a retelling and every single character is amazing. The pacing is a little slow at the beginning, but I absolutely loved the writing so it wasn't a problem for me.

One word: gorgeous.

I finished this book in a single day. I’m not ashamed to admit I stayed up until 3 a.m. because I simply couldn’t put it down.

The prose was breathtaking. Every page felt like poetry, and you could feel the heart of the story woven into every sentence. The writing was rich without ever feeling overwhelming, and every detail felt carefully chosen with genuine love for the world and its characters.

This book was a breath of fresh air. I’ve read countless novels featuring the fae, but this story returned to the roots of what first made me fall in love with the genre years ago.

So many modern fae stories focus on castles, courts, and legendary warriors. I loved that these fae felt deeply connected to the forest instead. The village came alive through its twisting vines, towering trees, vibrant colors, and textured bark. Every description immersed me in the setting, making it easy to picture myself walking through it alongside the characters.

The characters themselves had wonderful depth. Their emotions felt authentic, their relationships developed naturally, and nothing about their growth felt rushed. I especially appreciated that the story delivered meaningful character development while still telling a complete adventure within a single book. It never overstayed its welcome, and I remained fully invested from beginning to end.

The plot also didn’t shy away from hardship or darker themes. Every twist felt earned, and the story unfolded in a way that was both emotional and believable. Nothing felt forced or overly dramatic—each revelation fit naturally within the world that had been so carefully built.

Marian and Lox shared a genuinely sweet chemistry, and I loved how well the supporting cast complemented their journey. The side characters enriched the story without overshadowing the main characters, each serving a purpose in moving both the plot and the emotional stakes forward.

The ending left me incredibly satisfied. It was emotional, hopeful, and beautifully earned—a fitting conclusion to a story that never lost sight of its heart.

I can’t wait to see what this author writes next, whether it’s another story in this universe or something entirely new.

Thank you Netgalley and the publishers for the E-Arc of this book!

I firstly want to start by saying how beautifully written this book is. It felt very poetic at times and I haven’t read a good book like that in a long time. Marian, the fmc, is a little frustrating at first. Although I can see where her hesitation comes from with the Fae, I feel like she could have been a bit more open-minded instead of closed off and aggressive. However, she did grow on me and I was excited to learn more about her throughout the story. Lox, the MMC, and her have an almost insta-love aspect, or insta-yearning. But I still ate it up because it was such good yearning!! There were some scenes between the two where I had to hold my breath because I could feel everything the author was writing in that moment.
Honestly, I was able to guess the main plot twists, but that's expected with how many Romantasy books are constantly being released. This book still felt original in its own way and I'll definitely be putting the author on my instant buy list. And if there's a sequel I hope I get chosen to Arc read the one as well!!
Don't hesitate, pick up this book as soon as it releases!!

I love a mythology retelling. I love a reimagining of marginalized women in historical myths. Wench follows in these footsteps by empowering a historical side character beyond its mythos into a strong, compelling main character.

Wench is Eyrnne River’s take on the myth of Maid Marian and Robin Hood. This isn’t your classic Disney interpretation of the myth; Robin is a fae, mythical keeper of the Sherwood Forest and its inhabitants. In the human realm, Marian is forced into betrothal with the Sheriff of Nottingham to pay her father’s debts. When her caravan is attacked, Marian is brought into the heart of the Sherwood to right her wrongs and answer for human selfishness.

The prose in this story was beautiful, with lyrical descriptions and vivid imagery. The story balances these descriptions well with Marian’s experiences, presenting a world of both danger and beauty while moving a compelling plot. Marian’s character development is well done and compelling, and the side characters in the story are engaging.

The magic system in this book is not overwhelming but is rich with meaning, creating a mythology that centers the forest as sentient in its own way. The magic system is explained without being overbearing and is given room to grow as the story progresses.

The beginning of the book felt a little slow, but not terribly so; the book felt well paced overall, though I would have liked a little more time at the end of the story. There’s a big twist toward the end that I saw coming, and I wish it had happened a little earlier in the story to let the consequences sink in.

This book was explicit, with multiple on-page sexual encounters described in detail. There are major story revelations that happen during scenes, so they cannot be skipped for a clean reading experience. The author did a good job of balancing the couple’s relationship development with the explicit content, so the scenes feel earned and the couple continues to develop both with and without explicit scenes. I don’t know that every scene felt necessary in the context of the story, and one in particular could be cut without any real impact on our characters.

Altogether, I really enjoyed this book. I think the characterization of Maid Marian felt lived in and complex, and the character development in the story was well done. This is another great addition to the myth retellings that have become popular.

Thank you to Harper 360, NetGalley and Eyrnne Rivers for this advanced reader copy!

One of my favorite childhood stories made into something new, different, and exciting! Beautifully written and brought out all sorts of emotions in me. The main characters will have you constantly changing your opinions of them, but it’s all worth it in the end.

Thank you Harper 360 and NetGalley for this ARC!
This book was amazing! Every character had a stunning backstory, and we get to see them grow as people too. Everyone learned a lessons in this story. I fell in love with Sherwood and the society it represented. Rivers’ magical take on Robin Hood was a unique, heart-pounding, and fantastic read.

A retelling of Robin Hood with Maid Marian as the protagonist this time, Wench is set in fantastical version of Nottingham, England. Marian is a baron’s daughter, living just beyond the edge of Sherwood Forest. She’s also an artist whose skills were forced into service to her father’s engineering and smithy designing weapons and traps against the fae who live in Sherwood, and an excellent archer in her own right. Raised to fear the fae, she is forced to live with them after her journey to her much reviled fiance, the Sherrif of Nottingham, goes awry. Living amongst the people she had not just been brought up to fear, but also had contributed to the harm of pushes Marian to question her beliefs and figure out who she is when she is not bound up in patriarchy.

Of course, this is also a romantasy, and in Rivers’ version of the legend, Robin Hood is not just fae, but magically and spiritually bound to Sherwood Forest. He also has “sensitive antlers” that can, if he wants, retract, which seems much more manageable than giant wings.

I inhaled this book! The side characters are genuinely wonderful and are diverse in ways I’ll let you discover. The use of figurative language is top notch. I was immediately immersed by the poetic writing, but, as is often the case, it was Marian as a character who I deeply connected with and who was the beating heart of this story.

So, what do I rate it? It’s a five star read for me. I am officially a fan of Erynne Rivers and am excited to read what she comes out with next.

The idea of this one is really cool and unique, which is what initially drew me to it. I always loved the story of Robin Hood as a kid, and I especially loved Maid Marian in the Disney fox version of the story. Because of this, I went in with pretty high expectations, and I must say, overall, the story did a great job of meeting them.

It didn’t exceed my expectations, but it certainly met them, which is an absolute success in my opinion.

I do think the story could have benefited from a bit more character development. It’s almost as though they want us to come in to the story knowing everything there is to know about the characters.

Even if you know the story of Robin Hood well, you don’t know this version of the characters because they’re entirely unique and new. It’s a standalone, so you can only expect so much, but I do wish we got a chance to meet the characters and see them grow a bit more.

The plot was so much fun. It takes the best of Robin Hood and puts it into its own unique story. I really loved the fae vs human dynamics we have here. That, coupled with the reason Marian ends up here, as well as the incredible setting, made a really great story.

And of course, romance.

Thank you so much to Avon, Harper 360, and NetGalley for an arc of this book in exchange for an honest review.

Robin Hood was my favorite Disney movie growing up, and, like plenty of my fellow millennials, I had a crush on a cartoon fox. So naturally as an adult I need to see the adult romantasy manifestation. Ultimately, it was hit and miss for me.

The hit… It was entertaining all the way through. I wanted to actually see it to the end of the book, which is saying something because lately a lot of books get to 75- 80% through and after the realization of certain plot points, there’s just no reason to keep reading. This, however, kept me engaged.

As far as the miss… it lacked build up of the relationship to make it make sense. Theres too much time spent developing her time with other characters and yet the development between the two MCs - the whole reason I’m here!- was so thin. The chemistry didn't really build up and lacked in the will they/won’t they tension.

Maybe it was just too short for a stand alone and would have benefited from more so that it could develop her character arc, the world, and their relationship together?

Stakes were high for the other storyline but it’s culmination felt too tidy without much information ahead of time. Another moment that could have used some more development and elaboration earlier on.

I’m ultimately rounding up to 4 stars because the writing was well executed and it entertained me to the end, but it did feel a little thin and rushed in places.

Thank you to the author and NetGalley for the opportunity to read and review this book.

*Wench* by Erynne Rivers is a stunning reimagining of the Robin Hood legend that breathes new life into a familiar tale. By placing Maid Marian at the heart of the story and weaving fae mythology into Sherwood Forest, the novel creates a richly imagined world filled with magic, danger, and impossible choices.

I loved Marian's journey as she begins questioning everything she's been taught about the fae and discovers the truth for herself. Her growth feels authentic, and her relationship with Robin develops naturally through trust, shared experiences, and undeniable chemistry. The sentient forest, the magical lore, and the found-family dynamic among the Merry Men made the world feel immersive and unforgettable.

Erynne Rivers' writing is beautifully atmospheric, balancing lyrical prose with emotional depth and exciting adventure. The story explores prejudice, freedom, and choosing your own path while delivering a romance that is both tender and compelling.

Overall, *Wench* is a breathtaking romantasy debut that offers a fresh, magical take on a beloved legend. I highly recommend it to readers who enjoy fae fantasy, Robin Hood retellings, slow-burn romance, and richly imagined worlds.

This book is in third person present POV.

It has a “happy for now” ending, with some room for a sequel, if the author decides to do so.

This was an interesting take on Robin Hood!

Our main character, Marian, who you might recognize as “Maid Marian.” is who our story is about, beginning shortly before she’s met Robin Hood, but after “his” antics have begin. We meet all of the normal characters that you think of in Robin Hood stories, however their backstories and motivations are different, what, given that they are all fae and not people stealing from the rich and giving to to poor but are instead fae trying to protect themselves and their land.

Marian begins as a human bigoted against fae, taught to do so by the Church, the Sheriff, and her mother. Although I would have preferred for her to learn the truth through her own need for knowledge, she does ultimately learn her lesson and realizes why everything she had been taught is not all that is right.

I loved the fae side characters, especially Allen, though I wish we would have been able to know more about Will and Little John. I’m also glad that Marian didn’t suddenly gain some all encompassing suped up power that tends to happen with characters like these. I also really enjoyed that Sherwood is personified (almost like the house in a gothic novel).

I will say that I saw the small twist coming from somewhere after she’s met Robin. I can also say I saw the ending coming before the middle of the book as well. HOWEVER, I’ll also say that I did like how it unfolded and that Marian was not just “given” and reward with little work to get her there.

I am going to rate this at about a 3.75-4 stars. Although I liked how the story ended, it took me a while to get through the first 20-ish percent of the book because Marian was being obstinately dumb and bigoted without taking in the bigger picture, and it drove me crazy. However, when she began to open her eyes to everything around her, the book was way more smooth sailing.

If you’re looking for a Robin Hood reimagining with fae, this book is for you. I wanted to be part of the Merry Men and live in the magical world of Elswyth! It’s a fun, fast-paced read.

Maid Marian is bartered to the Sheriff of Nottingham to pay off her father’s debts. On her wedding day, Robin Hood’s Merry Men detain her carriage. She escapes only to get caught in a snare. The Merry Men save her and take her to Elswyth.

Here, Marian undergoes a huge transformation from victim to sovereign, making the story very character-driven. As she trains and learns how to fight back, she falls for Robin Hood. Marian must decide whose side she is on and whether to fight the Sheriff and save Sherwood Forest, or do nothing and return to how things were.

I enjoyed this one very much!! Simply being about the Robin Hood/ Maid Marian mythos pulled me in; but this was beautiful. I loved how the character of Marian is portrayed, and turning the denizens of Sherwood Forest into fey was brilliant. The aspect of the Merry Men as well as Robin himself was presented perfectly - it's very easy to love these characters. The part I especially loved most was the entity of the forest being interactive and how the lives of the fey is tied to it. The story of the heart and shield of the forest was fascinating. Overall, it exceeded my expectations! I could easily read more stories from Sherwood Forest in this interpretation.

Thank you Erynne Rivers, Avon and Netgalley for opportunity to read and review this eARC!

I really liked all these stories and movies with Robin Hood so obviously I had to pick up Wench as my anticipated read.

It was nice to see a story from Marian's side, which created very refreshing retelling mixed with Fae. The vibe of the book gives us just perfect amount of English folklore connected with magical, eerie and strange atmosphere of Sherwood forest. Writing is poetic, but not overwhelming with descriptions which I really liked — it fit story just right.

The romance was on sweeter side, attraction felt natural and well-balanced with relationship progressing naturally as story goes. There were a lot of moments that made me grin and kick my feet.

Thank you to Avon UK and NetGalley for the ARC of this book. All opinions are my own.

Well, I have a new favorite book. This ruined my life in the best way. I cannot get over how much I loved it. This was everything to me. I didn’t realize this was a retelling/spin on Robin Hood when I started. I don’t know what I thought going in, but I don’t care anymore. I could not put this down. I was so mad every time my eyes were closing. I just wanted to live in the pages. I loved Marion. Her strength and resilience was everything. I am OBSESSED. She is everything for me. I wanted to be her best friend. Her way to become herself unapologetically was beautiful. Lox? Yeah. I’d marry him in a heartbeat. Their relationship was such a beautiful thing to watch. I’m obsessed with everything about this. I could go on for literal days, but I will just say: read this. It was fantastic.

Thank you so much for the opportunity to read and review this book!

I am a sucker for a Robin Hood retelling, so I was really excited to dive into this one. It hooked me right from the beginning, and I had a really enjoyable time reading it.

The FMC was a little insufferable at first with all of her anti-fae feelings, but I did appreciate how that gave her room to grow throughout the story. Watching her challenge those beliefs and learn to stand up for herself made for a satisfying character arc. The MMC was also great, though he almost felt too forgiving at times. He came across as a little too perfect, but he was incredibly sweet and easy to root for.

My biggest criticism was that the story felt pretty predictable. Most of the reveals were easy to see coming, so there weren't many surprises along the way. That didn't make it a bad read, just a fairly straightforward one.

Overall, I had a good time with this book and would definitely read more from this author in the future.

🌟 🌟 🌟 .5

I loved this book and I can’t wait to read more by Erynne Rivers ! This was so cozy but fun and kept me on my toes!!! Love it

I love Robin Hood retellings and was so excited for this book’s release.

Overall, I thought this was a wonderful story with beautiful and captivating prose that did a great job of making me feel like I was in the Sherwood Forest myself. The forest felt so sentient and magnificent. When it was in pain, I could feel it.

The characters are all quite endearing and I loved the found family feel between Marian and the crew. I do think the character relationships and backstories are one of the weaker parts of the story, where they felt a bit shallow or flat, to me. That’s mainly why I have this at 4 stars.

I also loved the diversity and representation; this is something I’m always looking for in the books I read.

I really loved this story and could not put it down. The characters were phenomenal. You will instantly fall in love with Mar and Lox. The relationships among the fae are beautiful and honest. I think this aspect of the story made me envious. The world-building in Sherwood was dreamy and made me wish it was real.

I may be reaching, but I felt like it was all about social justice themes relevant to our current climate. It explored the idea that false information about a group of people based on what they (those with the prejudices) want you to know perpetuates fear and ignorance. It also touches on how society believes women are possessions until they lose their value and then are expendable.

I think this is a great start for a debut author, and I plan on reading anything she writes.

Thank you, Avon & Netgalley, for the opportunity to review this book.

I just want to preface this by saying, I absolutely love Robin Hood and have always loved and had a soft spot in my heart for maid Marian. Growing up I would watch the disney movie so often and loved the storyline as a whole. So, being able to read this version was like a dream come true.

The fae elements really pulled this together and I felt that the writing was so whimsy and magical. The ore being so significant and then the ending as well, oh my gosh. It just all came together so well.
I would love to read more about Allen, Will and Little John though. I feel like we need a story for the three of them.
I need this one as a trophy on my shelf because that cover is to die for honestly, it is so beautiful.

Thank you for the opportunity to read this book before release.

This was such a wonderful Robin Hood re-telling! I truly loved the magic and diverse faeries.

Marian was very stubborn in the beginning and I wanted to like her character more but she was so frustrating but by the middle of the plot it all made more sense and I really enjoyed how much she changed and grew into her own person.

Robin was a great character too. He was very stubborn in his own way and it was really heartwarming learning about how lonely he was before he met Marion.

Although some of the plot was a little predictable I did find the story itself satisfying and well-told. It was exciting and adventurous and a bit romantic 💘

Thank you NetGalley, Avon, and Harper 360 for this electronic ARC!

⭐️This title will be released July 16, 2026 ⭐️

Oh my god, I’m in love?

Both with the book and its MMC. Also its FMC. And its prose. Just… all of it.

I have been incredibly excited about this book since I first heard about it, and it absolutely does not disappoint. It takes the classic Robin Hood tale, alters the primary POV to that of Marian, and then infuses healthy doses of female rage, and of choosing one’s own truth, into every page. And the result Erynne Rivers crafts is glorious.

Between the deeply rooted strength of the characters and the words that read like they’re forged with a magic that belongs to an ancient tale, I devoured this book in its entirety in a matter of hours. It’s a whirlwind that takes hold of you as a reader and doesn’t let go; the action begins and then sweeps you through until the end, providing no real lulls within which to catch your breath. But it’s a wonderful ride, even if it is also a breathless one.

Though the outcome was slightly predictable, the nuances and the events that brought us there aren’t quite as clear-cut. Regardless of how familiar certain aspects may seem, they still fit within the frame of the story and feel earned. I’m already excited to reread this and see if there’s little things that I missed. And if not? I’ll still be happy to belong to this world again.

I think there is a lot left to explore in this universe, and as happy as I am that this reads as a standalone, I’d love to see what happens next.

So many thanks to NetGalley and Avon for the ARC! All opinions are my own.

🌶️🌶️

Final rating: 5 stars

Review posted to StoryGraph: July 10, 2026 (https://app.thestorygraph.com/reviews/c1695f7d-6824-4815-8ba5-4c913e24b5d0)
Review posted to Instagram: PENDING