Lore of the Wilds by Analeigh Sbrana 🍄🍄🟫
Hey, so I’m getting the bad out of the way before we even get into the good.
At the beginning of Chapter 17, after we meet the other players in the story, Finndryl (Fin), his twin Isla, and their dad Gryph. Isla ends up getting Lore drunk. The next day, Lore barely remembers what happened, but she remembers making out with Asher, her love interest. But she sleeping on the couch with Isla.
I hated this part.
I really don’t like scenes like that, because the way that it’s read implies that lore was doing something with Isla instead of Asher. Who she wakes up to. Then it was played off like a joke and i don’t play with that. It honestly spoiled the experience a little for me because I wanted this to be a full 5-star read.
Outside of that though? The storytelling was actually really good. Yeah, it gets a little rambly at times, but it was genuinely fun.
Also: justice for Fin 😭 People were trying to drag his name the whole time and I KNEW he was good people. An unfriendly character doesn’t bother me because half the time they know something everyone else doesn’t. Y’all can keep Asher.
And all those reviews saying:
“Oh, this book is horrible.”
“I don’t get why she suddenly switched sides.”
“It’s too insta-love.”
…Do y’all not like fairytales anymore? Because honestly, it wasn’t even that insta-love to me.
Now I have to go back through my “do not read” list because apparently I’ve been listening to the wrong people 😭
Overall, I’d give this 4 stars. It can get wordy sometimes, but it’s worth it. I’m actually upset at myself for not reading it sooner.
The vibe is Beauty and the Beast mixed with the cringe of Twilight (which I love). Lore is just a girl 😭 A little dumb sometimes, a strong sense of justice, and willing to take risks even when she absolutely does not have to.
Also… did I expect the spice in Chapter 27? Absolutely not. Even with the two steamy kiss scenes and all the h***y thoughts beforehand, I still wasn’t prepared. Good thing I didn’t read that chapter at work 💀
Anyway, I’m starting book two today.
I’m probably going to read Legendborn and Faebound too, because those were both on my “don’t read” list. Apparently I can’t trust that list anymore.
Reading 'Lore of the Wilds' by Analeigh Sbrana truly felt like stepping into an enchanted world where human resilience meets mystical forces. Lore Alemeyu, the protagonist, is not your typical fantasy heroine—her imperfections and bravery make her deeply relatable. One aspect that stood out to me is how the story balances classic fairy tale enchantment with contemporary emotional twists. The setting—a village trapped in a forest prison and a deserted magical library—adds layers to the plot that kept me intrigued beyond the romance elements. The dynamic between Lore and the two fae males introduces not only romantic tension but also a sense of survival and trust in a world where magic is coveted and dangerous. Though some parts, like the controversial Chapter 17 scene, were difficult to digest at first, they sparked important conversations about consent and narrative tone that are often overlooked in fantasy genres. Personally, I appreciated how the story didn’t shy away from complex emotions and flawed characters, making the romance more authentic rather than idealized. The comparison of Lore’s vibe to 'Beauty and the Beast' mixed with 'Twilight' captures the delicious blend of old and new influences shaping the story. The steamy moments in Chapter 27 genuinely surprised me and added a layer of maturity to the tale, making it more gripping without feeling out of place. Lastly, reading this book encouraged me to rethink my preconceived notions about what to read and which books deserve a chance beyond initial reviews or popular opinions. It reminded me to trust my own perspective in discovering unique stories that offer magic, adventure, and emotional connection. For fans of romantasy and fairy tale retellings, 'Lore of the Wilds' is definitely worth diving into.