The Wretched and Undone

by J.E. Weiner

A sweeping Southern Gothic saga unfolds in the Texas Hill Country, where history's silenced voices rise amidst an astonishing tale that defies expectations.

A sinister specter is hell-bent on revenge, and an ethereal woman in white is desperate to repel the menacing force. A battle rages for the hearts, minds, and souls of the Anderwalds and their extended family of immigrant outcasts, Arab camel wranglers, wounded warriors, and a songstress on the verge of madness. A sweeping Southern Gothic saga unfolds in the Texas Hill Country, where history's silenced voices rise amidst an astonishing tale that defies expectations.

On the eve of the Civil War, Polish immigrants Marcin and Agnieszka Anderwald arrive in Bandera, Texas, seeking a new beginning. But when Marcin crosses paths with a vengeful ghost known as the Shadow, their dream quickly turns into a nightmare. The Anderwalds' baby drowns, and Agnieszka is convinced she is to blame. She starves herself to death, returning from the grave as a ghostly Woman in White, determined to protect her family. Marcin and Agnieszka's son, Zacharias, burdened by grief, becomes entangled in a quest for vengeance that threatens his very soul. As he and his wife Liza clash with the relentless Shadow, they cling to hope when blessed with a child, John Marcin Anderwald.

But the curse of the Anderwalds is unyielding. John Marcin grows up amidst murder trials, haunting executions, and the ever-present Shadow that seeks to destroy his family. His love for the troubled singer Anna Schulte leads to further heartache, and his sons, Luke and Junior, inherit a legacy of sorrow and secrets that could tear them apart.

As the Anderwald legacy unfolds, each generation faces its own harrowing ordeal, where love and sacrifice are pitted against an unrelenting evil. Will they break free from the Shadow's curse, or will they remain forever wretched and undone?

Genres: Historical Fiction, Fiction, Audiobook

333 pages, Kindle Edition

First published March 18, 2025

About the author

J. E. Weiner is a writer and novelist based in Northern California. Her debut novel, “The Wretched and Undone”, is a searing and genre-bending Southern Gothic tale set in the heart of the Texas Hill Country and inspired by real people and actual events. The book manuscript was named a Killer Nashville Top Pick for 2024 and a Claymore Award Finalist for Best Southern Gothic.

Weiner’s previous work has appeared in the literary journals Madcap Review, Five Minutes, HerStry, and Chicago Story Press, as well as the recent grit-lit anthology “Red-Headed Writing” (Cowboy Jamboree Press, 2024).

Weiner is a founding member of the Pacific Coast Writers Collective, and while living and writing in blissful exile on the West Coast, her heart remains bound to her childhood home, the Great State of Texas.

Reviews

[Haly Hoards Books · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5☆
What a beautiful and haunting debut novel! Weiner has written a novel that will remain within my thoughts for a long time.

The Anderwald family endured four generations of hauntings, one based in evil vindictivenes and the other as loving protection. This is a tale of good verses evil and so much more.

Weiner wove a captivating saga of a Polish immigrant family that settled in the hill country of Texas just prior to the American Civil War. Through the years the Anderwalds experience periods of great joy and times of utter despair. The effects of war from the 1860s to the 1950s touch each generation, and throughout it all the evil menace and the fiercely protective forces are nearby.

The novel accurately depicts the culture of the times, with tactfully and gently presented episodes of prejudice, misogyny and misunderstanding of mental health. If you are easily offended by these facts of history this novel may not settle into your world view.

I received a free copy of this novel, and I am voluntarily leaving my opinions. Thank you to J.E. Weiner, the publisher and Booksirens for this opportunity.

[Lizardley]

DNF’ed at the end of part one because I got extremely tired of the book’s treatment of the Confederate army, race, and women. I will not be leaving a star rating because I did not complete the book, but let it be known that I would not leave a high one.

At this point, there have been two lynchings. The first serves to make the white confederate sergeant feel bad about not sticking up for the group of Mexicans that were lynched, and the second also makes all the white people feel sad. For the second, the non-white friend of the lynched man is sad, but he is not the focus of the scene. The lynchings act as motivation for the white men; it’s fridging but with more horrifying racist overtones.

Black people seemingly don’t exist in this world. When previously mentioned confederate sergeant is asked why the Civil War is happening, he gives some vague answer about “principles” being “complicated”. Interesting! Why wouldn’t our good supporting character give a more detailed reason about why he was fighting for the confederacy! I’m sure it has nothing to do with slavery.

The Arab men feel oddly infantilized, and the narrative does nothing to differentiate them, until one of them is lynched.

The daughters act as set dressing or further ways for Marcin to be hurt. Not one of them has a personality beyond “small child”. Zacharias is the only one of his children given any character. We hear nothing about the work they presumably are doing to keep the farm going after their mother’s death. Agnieszka is fine, I guess, if almost completely unexplored. Would have loved to learn even a little about her interiority, but alas, none of that.

Other than my gripes about all of that, the story leans heavily on telling, not showing, which works ok considering that the frame story is an old man telling the history of this family to a woman, but it doesn’t leave a lot of space for the characters to breathe and feel like real people. The supernatural elements are made painfully obvious, to the point where it’s far too clear what is going on.

Positives? It reads easy, I guess, since I banged through a quarter of it in like half an hour. Would not recommend though.

I received a copy of this book through Netgalley.

[Shaylah · Rating 4 out of 5]

J.E. Weiner's "The Wretched and Undone" is a spellbinding exploration of family, legacy, generational curses, and the supernatural set against the richly atmospheric backdrop of 19th-century Texas Hill Country. This novel, a sweeping Southern Gothic epic, is a dark and haunting tale inspired by real people and actual events, where historical depth meets the ethereal.

Weiner masterfully weaves together the struggles of Polish immigrants Marcin and Agnieszka Anderwald with the relentless terror of a vengeful specter, the Shadow, from the death of an evil Civil War soldier. The narrative spans generations, tackling themes of grief, guilt, and resilience as the Anderwalds face an unrelenting curse that passes through the lives of their children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. This family and their found family endure an incredible amount of bad luck, death, depression, and addiction due to signs of the curse.

The vivid descriptions of Bandera, Texas, and its immigrant communities, along with many historical events over the centuries, breathe life into the setting. At the same time, the supernatural elements heighten the tension, creating a narrative that is both captivating and unsettling. The book's strength lies in its genre-bending approach, seamlessly blending historical fiction, horror, and Southern Gothic. The writing is evocative, though, at times, the character's unrelenting pain and hardship can feel overwhelming and oppressive. "The Wretched and Undone" delivers an unforgettable journey though, balancing heartbreak and hope with masterful storytelling.

The ending is absolutely superb, and how it ties into the prologue made my jaw drop! This is a must-read if you enjoy richly detailed sagas steeped in the supernatural. Four stars!

TRIGGER WARNINGS: Abusive relationship, Alcoholism, Child death, Depression, Incest, Gun violence, Hallucinations, Infertility, Miscarriage, Possible suicide, Racism, War

Thank you, #NetGalley, #JEWeiner, #HTFPublishing for the ARC in exchange for my honest review of #TheWretchedandUndone .

[Holly · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book was really interesting! It starts out as a historical story about a family and their turmoil and then it shifts into something darker and more supernatural. The setting adds a lot of mood to the story. I've never been to Texas, especially not historical Texas. All I know about that state is that Pee Wee had his bike stolen and it was in the basement of the Alamo. This book really helped me picture what it must have been like and the author really made the setting especially come to life for me.

The characters were well written, and when I wasn't reading this one, I'd be thinking of the characters and what was going to happen. I had to hurry through the dishes one day so I could jump back into this. It had a good flow and overall was a very interesting read.

This wasn't a cozy, comfort book. You may need a palate cleanser afterward because it may stick with you bit. It's very emotional, gothic, and gritty. Overall I'd highly recommend, especially if you enjoy more historical fiction.

Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for this free copy in exchange for an honest review!

[Horror.Hussy · Rating 4 out of 5]

The wretched and Undone is a multigenerational gothic story. It is absolutely beautifully and hauntingly written perfectly highlighted by Scott Fleming as the Narrator of my Audio book Arc.

On the outside this seems like a tale of good vs evil- two warring spirits watching over Anderwald family of generations but it ends up being so much more.

Honestly the haunting and sprits truly played second fiddle the depth of characters that Weiner crafted.
I have 0 real life experience with the American south, frontier times spare anything that makes it to Australia through media, but the wretched and undone truly transported me.


What a deliciously lush debut

[CharlieJLZ · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 ⭐ A dark Gothic Texas Tale, meets The Waltons. There was tragedy and heartbreak, mixed with joy and strength. The start even brings a historical fiction and civil war aspect to this story.

This was a great read, that I struggled with a bit at the begining due to the volume of characters HOWEVER I'm really glad I continued!!

Although there is a supernatural side to this story, I didn't feel it took over and instead gave this novel a Good VS Evil ethereal element. I think it was very cleverly crafted.

Highly recommend for Historical fiction/ Gothic novel fans and probably less for horror/supernatural fans.

The characters and their relationships were written beautifully. I connected with them, rooted for them and felt like I've sat in the ranch with them. I'll be thinking of this story for a while, I can tell.

Thank you #NetGallery #HTFPublishing #JEWeiner for the ARC in exchanged for my honest review.

[Kerry Pickens · Rating 4 out of 5]

I received an ARC for this book through the LibraryThing website, and was interested in the book because the setting is just south of where I currently live in the Texas Hill Country. The story is a ghost story and is well written enough that it slowly draws you into the world of the haunted. I am looking forward to reading more books by this author.

[Becky · Rating 3 out of 5]

The Wretched and Undone is a Southern Gothic supernatural historical fiction novel that was ambitious and mostly satisfying.

The story follows multiple generations of the Anderwald family, who immigrated from Poland to Texas. The plot focuses on how grief, loss, and tragedy are passed down through generations, and how each member deals with the trauma. It was quite bleak, as none of the family members seemed to be able to catch a break due to a curse that was placed on the patriarch Marcin. Because of this curse, supernatural elements came into play with ghosts appearing throughout the story to further the plot.

Despite enjoying the family drama, I personally felt that the supernatural elements were unnecessary. I think the story would have been far more powerful if the “curse” existed primarily as a belief and symbolism that a family can create its own misfortune through fear, guilt, and expectation. This would have felt much more compelling to me than actual ghosts.

I also struggled with the portrayal of one character who is framed as a “good guy” despite having fought for the Confederacy. The narrative doesn’t meaningfully explore his backstory in a way that helps the reader forgive his involvement with the Confederacy. Without stronger context, it was difficult for me to fully root for him as a sympathetic character.

Another issue for me was how women were written throughout the novel. Nearly every major female character is portrayed as troubled, unstable, or unable to remain present for their children, while the responsibility for saving the family and raising the next generation consistently falls to the men. Every woman I know in real life is far more capable of handling hardship than their male counterparts, yet this novel makes women seem weak. Furthermore, this story seemed to suggest that women were almost always the cause of men suffering, which in reality is often the opposite.

Overall, I gave The Wretched and Undone 2.75 stars, rounded to a 3. While I personally found parts of the execution disappointing, the story itself was engaging enough that I couldn’t put it down and I read this in one day. It is an interesting and emotionally heavy read with a strong sense of atmosphere and a compelling family saga at its core, so if you enjoy historical fiction paired with bleak, generational family drama and don’t mind supernatural elements, this will likely be the book for you.

As I read this book as an audiobook, I also want to note that I enjoyed the narration, which really helped the story come to life.

Thank you to NetGalley, J. E. Weiner, Independent Book Publishers Association (IBPA), and Members' Audiobooks for a copy of this audiobook in exchange for my honest review. All opinions are my own.

[Olivia jones · Rating 4 out of 5]

Oh great. I’ve fallen in love with another debut author that doesn’t have a million other books I can binge. *sighs*

I want to thank NetGalley & the publisher & of course the author for an ALC in exchange for an honest review.

-

Do you ever feel homesick after finishing a book? Like you were so immersed in the story and the characters that you felt like you were INSIDE the story? That’s how I feel after reading The Wretched and Undone.

The book follows four generations of the polish immigrant family the Anderwalds in Bandera, TX starting in 1860 and a curse that follows them all.

The first half of the book was a little on the slow side but it was filled with story after story that kept me engaged. By the time we hit the second half I was completely hooked. Each generation grapples with the curse in their own way and has their own dark histories (child loss, infertility, illness, addiction, etc).

I really fell in love with all of the characters and felt the loss after each generation passed on as if they were my own family. I think that’s such a cool part of a generational story is knowing their stories from beginning of life to end.

And the twist at the end? Omg. I had to reread the prologue and the epilogue over and over again to understand. Just wow.

This story is going to linger in my mind for a long time. And I’m going to miss the Anderwalds.

*I listened to the audio and the narrator was incredible. I wasn’t sure at first but was very impressed by him in the end. Especially the way he did the peacock squawking sounds!

[Darcia Helle · Rating 3 out of 5]

Well, that was bleak.

THE WRETCHED AND UNDONE follows four generations of a cursed Texan family, beginning shortly before the Civil War. Setting and atmosphere are this book’s strength.

Initially, I was intrigued by the hint of the supernatural “evil,” and I cared about what happened to the family. But as the story continued, I wasn’t as invested in the subsequent generations. Everyone was drowning in misery, without much hope or purpose.

The supernatural aspect was thin and not adequately explored. I needed more substance and development.

I’m not sure I ever grasped the point of it all. We explored love and tragedy and grief, but it all felt circular.

*I received a free eARC from the publisher, via NetGalley.*

[Heather · Rating 4 out of 5]

A captivating Southern Gothic novel set in 19th century Texas Hill County. I appreciated the author's vivid descriptions of life in Texas, immigration communities, and historical events over the decades. Generations of guilt, hurt, and misfortune plagued a family seemingly cursed. The writing was engaging, and I highly recommend this book.

Thank you so much to NetGalley for this Arc for my honest review

[Cindy Chapman · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is one of those rare audiobooks where the writing and the performance are in perfect harmony. The narration was excellent, making it incredibly easy to visualize the scenes and stay completely immersed in the world. With spot-on pacing and deep character development, this story hits every emotion. It’s an absolute emotional rollercoaster that I’ll be thinking about for a long time. Highly recommended!

[Katrina · Rating 5 out of 5]

One of the most memorable books I've read this year. This enthralling novel feels destined for the big screen. From camels to peacocks, hopeful children to ghosts, an aspiring musician to a frightful-looking barkeep, the mysteries nestled in the hills of Texas unfold through vivid characters and unforgettable settings. The Wretched and Undone is both colorful and bleak—the very tension between the two kept me turning every page. Beneath all the drama lies a haunting, relatable question: can we ever truly begin again when grief, addiction, and other traumas strike like rattlesnakes, generation after generation?

[Sydney · Rating 4 out of 5]

A gothic tale set in Texas Hill Country USA, starting at the Civil War and spanning generations, following a cursed family.

I found this one hard to get into. While there were aspects I enjoyed I found the supernatural elements too abrupt and obvious. I prefer a more eerie subtle approach. I also enjoyed the earlier generations and found myself caring less as the book progressed.

The writing was good and the audiobook definitely added to the experience with the different voices, helping bring the characters to life.

I would be interested in reading more from this author as there is clear talent here.

3.5⭐️

[Gcraford · Rating 5 out of 5]

A great debut novel, written with painstaking care for historical details and centered on a family tree laden with unforgettable characters who spring to life (and death) from the page and haunt the reader to the end.

A page turner of a book that is certain to be a blockbuster film!

[Ashley · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5 Stars

The Wretched and Undone is a tragic historical fiction story, that spans multiple generations, starting at the brink of the Civil War. The Anderwald’s are Polish immigrants, who find themselves in Bandera, Texas. When Marcin, the family’s patriarch, is conscripted to build wagons for the confederacy, unfolding events cause him to be haunted by a vengeful ghost. When Marcin returns home, the spirit follows and continues to haunt his family, leaving a legacy of good versus evil, generation after generation.

If I had to use one word to describe The Wretched and Undone, it would be “tragic”. I would compare the feel of the story to Kristin Hannah books, which are some of my favorites. If you are looking for a happy go lucky type story, this does not fall into that category. But, I loved it for that exact reason.

The story has a lengthy time frame, that follows so many historical events, starting with the Civil War. Even though there are so many historical moments touched on during the story, the focus remains on the family and the tragedies they are facing. I really loved the drama of the story and seeing how the curse affected each new generation.

I struggled with the supernatural aspect of the book. The reason for the appearance of the vengeful ghost felt awkward to me, under the circumstances that initiated it. I also felt like the appearance of the spirits throughout the rest of the book didn’t bring any kind of horror to the story. Their presence was sporadic and seemed to be an afterthought. I believe the story of the family on its own would have been just as successful, if the supernatural element would have been left out, and I would not have missed it.

I found The Wretched and Undone to be an intriguing historical fiction read, with a focus on family drama that kept me absorbed in the lives of the different characters and the struggles they faced in daily life, relationships, tragedy after tragedy, world events, and addictions.

Thank you to HTF Publishing/IBPA and NetGalley for providing me with an ebook copy of The Wretched and Undone, in return for my honest review.

[Richard Derus · Rating 4 out of 5]

Rating: 4* of five

The Publisher Says: A sweeping Southern Gothic saga unfolds in the Texas Hill Country, where history's silenced voices rise amidst an astonishing tale that defies expectations.

A sinister specter is hell-bent on revenge, and an ethereal woman in white is desperate to repel the menacing force. A battle rages for the hearts, minds, and souls of the Anderwalds and their extended family of immigrant outcasts, Arab camel wranglers, wounded warriors, and a songstress on the verge of madness. A sweeping Southern Gothic saga unfolds in the Texas Hill Country, where history's silenced voices rise amidst an astonishing tale that defies expectations.

On the eve of the Civil War, Polish immigrants Marcin and Agnieszka Anderwald arrive in Bandera, Texas, seeking a new beginning. But when Marcin crosses paths with a vengeful ghost known as the Shadow, their dream quickly turns into a nightmare. The Anderwalds' baby drowns, and Agnieszka is convinced she is to blame. She starves herself to death, returning from the grave as a ghostly Woman in White, determined to protect her family. Marcin and Agnieszka's son, Zacharias, burdened by grief, becomes entangled in a quest for vengeance that threatens his very soul. As he and his wife Liza clash with the relentless Shadow, they cling to hope when blessed with a child, John Marcin Anderwald.

But the curse of the Anderwalds is unyielding. John Marcin grows up amidst murder trials, haunting executions, and the ever-present Shadow that seeks to destroy his family. His love for the troubled singer Anna Schulte leads to further heartache, and his sons, Luke and Junior, inherit a legacy of sorrow and secrets that could tear them apart.

As the Anderwald legacy unfolds, each generation faces its own harrowing ordeal, where love and sacrifice are pitted against an unrelenting evil. Will they break free from the Shadow's curse, or will they remain forever wretched and undone?

I RECEIVED A DRC FROM THE PUBLISHER VIA NETGALLEY. THANK YOU.

My Review: Bandera! Good goddle mitey, y'all, that's just down the road a piece from my home town, Austin. What a surprise to find it in a novel of a cursèd family of Polish immigrants who are purported to be based on real people.

Dunno about all that, but it's cool to read about people I actually know. Or knew...most of the ones I met are bound to be dead by now, they all smoked like chimneys. But a thing most people don't seem to know is just how much the aftermath of the 1848 revolutions affected inbound migration into Texas. The repressions that followed the PTB returning to uncontested power in the Prussian, Austrian, and Russian Empires led to many, many people making their way to Galveston and Indianola to escape repression and reprisals from Bohemia, Poland, and Silesia...most especially Catholics from Poland and Bohemia, Anabaptists from Silesia.

So here's a superstitious Polish family arriving to start a freer, better life in Texas...they'd be so ashamed of their thrice-great grands and the awfulness they're inflicting on those who are seeking the same...and they get tangled up in a curse that travels the generations. Is that because "The Shadow" is supernatural, or because the family's passed it down like a blood feud with the world?

So yes indeed, it's dark, and violent, and misogynistic abuse is rife. Is it a cheery way to wile away a weekend? No. Is it fun? hmmm not all the way sure I'd call it "fun" but I was not about to put it down. Any family as haunted and afflicted as the Anderwalds that somehow staggers from the Civil War of 1860 all the way to the present is, well, tough, stubborn and full of that intangible thing I call "grit." It made me feel invested in the succeeding generations as they succumbed to...whatever "The Shadow" really is.

I'll only give it four stars because I found it so curiously compelling and oddly propulsive. I think many of y'all won't be so tolerant. If historical fiction about the ugly life challenges od immigrant clans that quite literally pull no punches don't send you sprinting for the exit, this read will scratch your dark fiction need. It's borderline supernatural horror without feeling silly to me. That tells you a lot about how deftly Author Weiner handles "The Shadow."

I liked the experience of reading about my old homeplace as well. It's funny...I don't want to live there now, but it's still a weird unwelcoming home to me. Definitely a spooky one to read.

[Winter · Rating 4 out of 5]

Absolutely Spellbinding:
A Southern Gothic Masterpiece in the Making 👻

Rating:
🌟🌟🌟🌟 (4/5 stars)

From the moment I opened "The Wretched and Undone," I knew I was in for something extraordinary.
J.E. Weiner's debut novel is a sweeping, haunting exploration of family, trauma, and the supernatural set against the backdrop of pre-Civil War Texas that left me breathless and wanting more.

This multigenerational saga follows the Anderwald family through decades of heartbreak, hope, and haunting in the Texas Hill Country. What makes this book exceptional is how Weiner manages to make each generation's story feel both distinct and interconnected. The Polish immigrant experience is rendered with remarkable depth and authenticity, bringing to life the challenges faced by newcomers trying to establish themselves in a harsh and often unwelcoming frontier landscape 🏜️.

The supernatural elements are where this book truly shines. The Shadow and the Woman in White aren't just creepy apparitions; they're manifestations of deep-seated family trauma and historical injustices. Weiner's approach to the paranormal feels grounded in real human emotion and experience, making the ghostly encounters genuinely unsettling rather than merely sensational. The way these supernatural forces influence each generation creates a sense of inevitable tragedy that had me turning pages well into the night 🌙.

I was particularly drawn to the character development across generations. Marcin and Agnieszka's initial optimism and subsequent devastation felt incredibly real and heartbreaking. Their son Zacharias's descent into vengeance-seeking, John Marcin's doomed romance with the troubled singer Anna Schulte, and the ongoing struggles of Luke and Junior all contribute to a rich tapestry of human experience that spans decades.

The historical research is impeccable. Weiner clearly has a deep understanding of 1860s Texas, from the immigrant communities that shaped the Hill Country to the brewing tensions that would explode into civil war. The details about daily life, local customs, and the brutal realities of frontier existence never feel like exposition dumps but instead enhance the story's authenticity and emotional impact.

The writing itself is gorgeous, with prose that captures the gothic atmosphere perfectly while remaining accessible and emotionally engaging. There's a lyrical quality to Weiner's descriptions of the Texas landscape that makes it feel like another character in the story. The way she weaves together past and present, natural and supernatural, creates an atmosphere that's both beautiful and deeply unsettling ✨.

While the pacing occasionally slows during transitions between time periods, I found this actually added to the book's contemplative quality. This isn't a fast-paced thriller but rather a meditation on how trauma and secrets ripple through generations. The slightly dreamlike quality of some passages enhances rather than detracts from the overall experience.

"The Wretched and Undone" reminded me why I love Southern Gothic literature so much. It has all the elements that make the genre compelling: complex, flawed characters; a vivid sense of place; supernatural elements rooted in real human experience; and themes that explore the dark underbelly of the American experience 🕯️.

This is historical fiction at its finest, bringing to life a specific time and place while exploring universal themes of family, loss, redemption, and the ways our past continues to haunt our present. Weiner has created something truly special here, and I can't wait to see what she writes next.

Perfect for readers who love:
Multigenerational family sagas, Southern Gothic atmosphere, historical fiction with supernatural elements, stories about immigrant experiences, and beautifully written literary fiction.

Note:
This book deals with mature themes including death, violence, mental illness, and supernatural elements that may be intense for some readers.

Thank you, J.E. Weiner/NetGalley/HTF Publishing, for the gifted copy of this book. I was more than happy to leave my honest review, and all opinions are my own.

[Connie Marie · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Wretched and Undone, is less of a ghost story, and more a story of a family dealing with generational grief and trauma, and that in and of itself, is far more of a tragedy than any vengeful curse could ever muster to be. When I say this novel left me gutted, I mean it left me standing there with my heart in my hand and tears built in my eyes – I listened to this through the audio book, and it was very well done. I finished this book and had to just take a moment to myself to truly process all that I had endured. While this story had only taken ten hours of my life to complete, I really felt like I had lived all the years that this story spans.

The time periods are also such a heavy backdrop to all of this. I will admit, I did not read the full summary when I requested this book – I saw Civil War, Southern Gothic-Horror and was already beginning to read – so I wasn’t expecting how many decades this story would expand over. But each of those decades are so well defined, that even if I had wished some clear dates had been given, J. E. Weiner really captures what made those times so distinct.

From the persistent and blatant racism of the pre-Intergration Southern States and the dangers that one’s skin color and accent could bring, to the building tension of WWI, the damage inflicted upon the soldiers of WWII, the freedom and dangers to the youth that came from the automobile creation, Texas really does grow like a character in and of itself within this story.

The heart of this story is the Anderwalds family, and all of those who take up residence at the farm. The story is loaded with characters, but each of them have such a distinct personality to them that they do not bog the story down. Marcin is just an all around great guy who I wanted nothing but the best for, and every time he came onto the page I felt a little warmth in my heart. Agnieszka had a spitfire to her that when we see that fire put out it truly does hurt. Zacharias and Liza’s struggle with infertility had me kneeling in sower at those grave sights with them. John Marcin’s inability to save his wife from herself, and to protect the boys who inherited all the trauma passed through the generations was what made this story hit so hard.

This is a story of family, and it is really easy to become a member of this family while reading – the additional characters of Kirby and the Arab wranglers who make home on the lands were such fun and deeply developed characters that I was not expecting to become so attached to when they were first introduced.

As for the Shadow himself, whenever it was on the page, I was eating it up. I love a vengeful ghost – especially one that has no right to be upset about the consequences of their own action. So when it follows Marcin home after his employment is over, and quickly snuffs out the life of his and Agnieszka’s youngest, I was so ready. But the Shadow is more of, well a shadow in the tree lines than anything. Whenever it appears, all Hell will break loose, but I was surprised how much of the story happens without it even being present. (It was a similar problem I had with the redheaded boy being spotted multiple times, and the character just fading away afterwards until he finally does something – which dear God I figured him out quickly but was shocked by what occurs)

But I guess with the Shadow, that’s what made it such an amazing representation of trauma more than any monster of its own right. Even when it wasn’t front and center threatening the family, it was always lingering until they became far too comfortable with it and it was allowed to grab hold.

Which is why if you’re picking this book up expecting a haunted house and an actively participating ghost, you might find yourself a tad disappointed. But if you want a beautiful story about a family’s struggle for survival and the lingering trauma that festers within their line, all with an oppresive Southern Gothic air, this is the book for you. The year is early, but I think this just might be my favorite book of the year so far.

Honest Review given for Digital ARC Via Netgalley

[PJ · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Wretched and Undone
by J.E. Weiner
Format: Advanced Listener Copy (NetGalley, author, and the Independent Book Publishers Association)
Narration: Scott Fleming
ALC provided in exchange for an honest review.

The Wretched and Undone isn’t the kind of book I normally reach for. Historical fiction mixed with horror isn’t a lane I spend much time in, but a good friend suggested I check it out, and the premise caught my attention enough that I wanted to give it a shot. I’m glad I did.

Set in the Texas Hill Country just before the Civil War, the story follows Marcin and Agnieszka Anderwald, Polish immigrants hoping for land, faith, and a fresh start. What they find instead is something darker. A curse takes hold, and what begins as a story about settling into a new place slowly turns into a generational fight against a supernatural evil that feels tied not just to the family, but to the land itself.

What surprised me most was how quickly I got pulled in. I listened to this on audio, and even at over ten hours long, it never dragged. Not once did I feel bored or tempted to check out. If anything, I kept finding excuses to keep listening. The pacing is excellent, and the story knows how to keep tension simmering without burning itself out.

A lot of that comes down to the writing. J.E. Weiner does a great job creating atmosphere. The horror doesn’t feel tacked on or overdone. Instead, it creeps in slowly, built out of history, memory, and the sense that some places remember what’s been done to them. The setting feels heavy in the best way, like the past is always just under the surface.

The cast of characters also helps bring the story to life. Beyond the Anderwald family, there’s an unusual and memorable community around them: Arab camel wranglers, battle-worn soldiers, and people living on the edge of sanity. It gives the book texture and makes the world feel broader and more lived-in than I expected.

If I had one reservation, it’s that some of the themes, generational trauma, inherited evil, and the weight of history, feel more suggested than fully explored. They work, but they don’t always dig as deep as the atmosphere does. That said, the strength of the storytelling more than makes up for it.

Scott Fleming’s narration deserves real credit here. His performance keeps everything grounded and helps the story flow, especially during darker moments. It’s one of those audiobooks where the narration actively improves the experience.

The Wretched and Undone ended up being a really satisfying listen for me, even though it sits outside my usual comfort zone. It’s immersive, unsettling, and consistently engaging without ever feeling overwhelming.

Rating Breakdown

Story & Thematic Weight: ⭐⭐⭐1/2 (3.5/5)
The blend of historical fiction and horror works well, and the cursed-family premise is compelling, even if some themes remain more implied than deeply examined.

Character Work: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4/5)
The Anderwald family and the surrounding community feel textured and believable, carrying the emotional and historical weight of the story effectively.

Prose & Authorial Voice: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5/5)
Atmospheric, confident writing that does much of the heavy lifting. The prose excels at mood and immersion.

Structure & Pacing: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5/5)
Excellent momentum, especially on audio. The story never drags and remains engaging throughout its full runtime.

Emotional & Lasting Impact: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4/5)
A chilling, memorable experience that lingered with me, particularly in its atmosphere and sense of historical unease.

Final Rating
⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4 out of 5 stars)

A gripping, genre-bending historical horror that shines in atmosphere, prose, and pacing. While not every idea is pushed to its limit, The Wretched and Undone is an immersive and rewarding listen, especially on audio.

[Jessica Sinn (Books and Trouble) · Rating 3 out of 5]

Summed Up: Spanning generations from the Civil War through the 1940s, this sweeping saga follows a sprawling family tree entangled in tragedy. Dozens of interconnected lives unravel through wave after wave of misfortune—brief moments of light dimmed by relentless darkness. At the heart of it all lurks a malevolent force, vengeful and unseen, pulling the strings from the shadows. Spooooooky stuff, eh? Well…sort of.

What’s Missing: After an unforgettable book talk with the author—joined by her fiddlin’ and friends rom the Dixie Chicks (cousins, maybe?)—I was all in on the Southern Gothic allure: ghosts, legends, and that thick, haunted humidity of lore. But the malevolent shadow lurking in the woods? It felt more like a footnote than a threat. The dark presence made only a handful of fleeting appearances, easy to forget amid the ceaseless stream of sorrows. And when it did show up, it slipped away just as fast—like a mosquito you swat without thinking, while trying to enjoy a cold Shiner on the porch swing.

What I Liked: While the book is short on ghosts, it is heavy on atmosphere and intrigue. I wasn’t too keen on most of the highly flawed characters (particularly the milquetoast women), and oh—don’t even get me started on Luke and his father, who apparently embraced the “gentle parenting” trend way back in the day. Yet despite all that, I was heavily invested in their stories and anxiously watched the impending trainwreck unfold. Most of all, I loved the descriptions of historic Bandera, my favorite vacation spot in all of Texas! There’s even a group of characters from Pipe Creek—a tiny spot near Boerne where my husband and I stay at least twice a year.

Thoughts on the Characters: In this sprawling, multi-generational saga, you’ll encounter a whole cast of characters grappling with more than their fair share of... personal challenges. Unfortunately, the women in this tale feel shortchanged. Many come across as one-dimensional, lacking the grit, depth, and moral backbone you'd expect—even hope for. Sure, the setting nods to a time when women were often sidelined in favor of their rugged, boot-stompin’ cowboy counterparts—but history’s full of fiery exceptions. It would’ve been nice to have at least one kick-ass woman fighting the forces of evil, but oh well.

The pacing: Grab your Dramamine because the choppiness might make you seasick! Just when I get hit with a wallop of sadness, the next chapter picks up at another time and place. I don’t get to process the tragedy that just happened because the author has already moved on to the next unfortunate event. My unsolicited advice is to take it down a notch and pay homage to the beloved character you just knocked off. I know readers have short attention spans, but dang! Give this girl a chance to grieve!

Overall: Despite my grievances, I would be lying if I said this wasn’t an interesting story. It was worth every penny of the $20 I forked over for a paperback, and I certainly will read another book by this new author. This was a big undertaking for a debut novel, so I give her props for pulling it off. I just hope she can give us some better characters in her next novel.

[Amihan Archives · Rating 4 out of 5]

I love gothic horror stories not for the supernatural or paranormal events, but for the close-to-home themes and morals that tend to pop up throughout the tale. The Wretched and Undone is a southern gothic tale set in old Texas, spanning across four generations of the Anderwalds. Starting with Marcin Anderwald and his young family, he is a Polish immigrant who arrives in Bandera, Texas during the Civil War. A malicious entity follows him and his progeny and the family does their best to keep the evil spirit at bay. Tragedy often befalls the Anderwalds and we see a shifting landscape as the years roll by and the harrowing experiences the family overcomes.

For this book, the supernatural aspects didn't captivate or draw me in as much as J.E. Weiner's well structured writing regarding the Anderwald family. With each passing generation, I came to know each descendant, watching them tackle their own set of problems in their lifetimes. The author does a terrific job with bringing each character to life, even side characters whose impact on the story carries from one generation to the next. Because of the broadness over nearly a century of Anderwalds, there were times when I felt overwhelmed by the overarching history and cast of characters, but by the conclusion, it felt sufficiently wrapped up even with some open ended plot points. I rather enjoyed the journey getting to know this family and was saddened with each loss they'd experience, only to laugh during unexpected moments of beauty and tenderness.

I typically listen to audiobooks above a 1.5x speed and Scott Fleming's narrations did not feel rushed even at higher listening speeds. I appreciated how he gave life to each character, differentiating them with various accents or pitch, depending on the character's age, gender, or ethnic background. (I even had a good laugh every time he mimicked the sound of peacocks, which are central to the story, and had to look up if they actually sounded like that. Close enough!) There are times when Polish phrases and words were used so I had to look them up to see how they were spelled or the context, if a translation wasn't provided in the audiobook. Overall, I was hooked by this story and a large part was due to Fleming's narration.

I would definitely recommend this audiobook to anyone who may be interested in themes of: generational trauma, gothic horror, and old Texas appreciation.

Received as an ALC copy courtesy of Netgalley and Independent Book Publishers Association (IBPA), my thanks for giving me the opportunity to review. Thank you also to the author, J.E. Weiner for this excellent tale and kudos to the narrator, Scott Fleming for the incredible storytelling.

[Jim Nesbitt · Rating 5 out of 5]

With The Wretched and Undone, Julia Weiner has written a compelling, slow-burning horror story of a cursed family of Polish immigrants to the Texas Hill Country, haunted across the generations by the malign spirit of a slovenly Confederate soldier killed by Comanche raiders.

All because of a single dark thought by the patriarch of the Anderwald family after the soldier's repeated threats, this original sin reverberates and returns through the years. It heaps tragedy on these beleaguered pioneers as they slowly build a hard-scrabble life marked by violent death, madness and the other-worldly battle between the soldier's evil shade and the protective spirit of the matriarch, who died of grief after her young daughter falls into a nest of cottonmouths hidden near the banks of the Medina River.

This isn't a book that serves up graphic scenes of supernatural gore or alien predators. It isn't even a tale told in the style of a Stephen King. Instead, this book echoes the everyday horrors of Southern Gothic masters such as Flannery O'Connor. There may be an evil duch who announces his presence with the stench of the grave, but the carnage and killing is delivered by the hand of man.

The author takes her time, slowly building the suspense with an Old Testament sense of inevitable damnation while masterfully pulling from the rich and bloody history of Texas and its immigrant settlers, fleeing the conflicts of Europe and drawn by the false promise of a new land at the dawn of the Civil War.

There is also the strong echo of the deep cultural divide that has long bedeviled America, the pernicious belief that one man's ignorance and wrong-headed beliefs are just as worthy as another man's knowledge and talent. This idiocy is at the root of the animus between the soldier and the Anderwald patriarch. Time and again before the Comanches kill and mutilate him, the soldier rails at Marcin Anderwald: "You're no better than me." Or words to that effect.

And in an understated way, the author also shows the prejudice and racism of the times, applied equally to blacks, Mexicans, immigrants who happen to be Catholic and, in a nice twist, two Arab wranglers who came to America as part of the failed military experiment with the use of camels in the deserts of Texas and the Southwest.

But above all, this is a story of resilience and perseverance. It's a realistic portrayal of the American story -- the truth, not the myth, solidly rooted in the history of a place. In this case, Peacock Bend on the Medina River. Near Bandera, Texas.

Good story. Good stuff.

-- Jim Nesbitt, author of the award-winning Ed Earl Burch hard-boiled Texas crime thrillers.

[JemeryInPrint · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Wretched and Undone is an incredibly captivating Southern Gothic novel that will draw readers in with its eerie atmosphere and deep historical roots. J.E. Weiner has done a remarkable job in creating a world that feels both haunting and authentic, with the 1860s Texas setting brought to life in vivid detail. The historical research is fantastic, and you can tell that Weiner has a deep understanding of the period, from the complex social dynamics to the cultural tensions of post-Civil War Texas.

The characters, particularly the ones in the middle of the supernatural events, are well-drawn and feel genuinely human, even when they're caught up in strange, otherworldly happenings. I found myself truly invested in their struggles, both internal and external.

A special shout-out must be given to narrator Scott Fleming, whose portrayal of the central character is absolutely brilliant. Fleming brings an emotional depth to the role that elevates the entire narrative. His nuanced performance was able to capture the complex mix of fear, determination, and vulnerability that adds so much to the novel’s gravitas. His interactions with the supernatural elements are especially compelling, and he really helps ground the story, making the eerie occurrences feel all the more immediate and personal.

One of the things that really stood out was the ending. It’s absolutely superb and ties in beautifully with the prologue, offering a satisfying and thought-provoking conclusion that lingers long after the book is finished. I won't spoil anything, but it’s one of those rare endings that makes the whole journey worth it.

However, as much as I loved the atmospheric tension and the historical depth, I couldn’t help but wish for a bit more depth in the supernatural elements. They play a central role in the story, but I found myself wanting a little more exploration of their origins and the way they shape the characters’ decisions. There’s a lot of potential in the supernatural threads, and while they’re effective, I just wanted them to be fleshed out a bit more.

Overall, The Wretched and Undone is a strong, atmospheric read with a gripping conclusion and excellent historical accuracy. Fans of Southern Gothic and historical fiction will find a lot to love, though those looking for more supernatural depth might leave with just a touch of longing. Still, it’s a well-crafted book that I would recommend to anyone looking for something haunting and beautifully written.

Thank you J.E. Weiner, Independent Book Publishers Association (IBPA), Members' Audiobooks and NetGalley for the audio ARC.

[Stephanie · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Anderwald's, a Polish family, settle on a ranch in Bandera, Texas on the eve of the Civil War.  Anderwald patriarch Marcin is soon enlisted to help the Confederacy with the unique project of building a wagon for a team of camels at Camp Verde.  Marcin completes his service and makes friends with the camel handlers, Khalil and Ahmad and an enemy of Private Brewer who died horrifically in battle.  Upon returning home, Marcin finds his family troubled, especially his wife, Agnieszka.  The shadow of war has followed Marcin home as tragedy strikes the Anderwald family with multiple deaths.  However, the Anderwalds carry on, welcoming Khalil, Ahmad, their camels and Sargent Kirby to their ranch.  Soon, the Anderwald's oldest son, Zacharias is married and expecting a child with his wife Liza.  However, the shadow persists over the Anderwald family, seemingly followed by a benevolent woman in white.  Zacharias and Liza's son, John Marcin grows up on the ranch and is well aware of the tragedy that has come before him, but with war looming, he enlists along with his neighborhood friends. The shadow finds John Marcin as he returns from service with a new wife, Anna, who has plenty of demons of their own.  John Marcin and Anna's kids, Lucas and Junior also cannot escape the shadow that has followed their family.
The Wretched and Undone is a multi-generational family saga that compounds the haunting effects of trauma, grief and vengeance with a supernatural curse. The writing pulled me in from the prologue with a new tenant wondering about the history and haunting of the ranch.   From there, the pacing was fairly quick, moving through four generations of Anderwalds.  Because of this, the male Anderwald's are more developed and the story is told from their point of view. However, the Anderwald women and wives were equally affected by the shadow. I would have loved to know more about Agnieszka's experience with the shadow as well as Liza and Anna's experiences with the shadow and the woman in white.  Despite the relentless haunting of the shadow and the countless tragedies that the Anderwald family incurs, they carry on and find comfort within family, friends and community.  The epilogue brought the Anderwald's story full circle with a surprising character and the continuing escapades of good versus evil at the Anderwald ranch. 

This book was received for free in return for an honest review. 

[Kysa Klein · Rating 3 out of 5]

The Wretched and Undone is a documentary-style historical fiction that illustrates the love and loss experienced through multiple generations of the Anderwald family. We open with Marcin, the patriarch of the family who has been summoned to help as a carpenter for the Civil War. While at his station, a man whom Marcin is not particularly fond of is brutally murdered. Thus begins the curse of the Anderwald family. The reader follows Marcin's misfortune for a period until the point of view switches to his eldest son, Zacharias. We learn of Zacharias' great love, Liza, and we watch as they struggle with child loss and marital issues. Eventually, Liza falls pregnant and births a son, John Marcin. The story then continues from John Marcin's point of view, where we are introduced to the troubled Anna whom John Marcin loves. They bear two children, of which the story focuses on Luke, a kind, smart boy who would do anything for his parents. Unfortunately, Luke inherited his mother's troubled mind, turning to alcohol after she abandons them.
The reader meets four generations of Anderwald's and watches as the curse that started with Marcin in the very beginning haunts them all throughout the story. This book was not bad by any means, but there were times where I wondered what the point of it all was. I think, after finishing it, I realize that the point was just to tell a story about a family with a ghostly story painted over the top.
I give The Wretched and Undone three out of five stars because the characters (for the most part) were likable and easy to root for. I felt that the "curse" aspect could've been played into a bit more, there was only one point at the very end in which I felt a little spooked by the happenings of Peacock Bend. I also completely forgot that this story was being told from the point of view of a museum curator and felt a little whiplash at the end when the perspective shifted. But overall, I think that the story was enjoyable and kept me interested.
This is an honest review in exchange for an advanced reader's copy. Thank you to NetGalley and the publishers of this book for the opportunity to read and review this work.

[Joanne Ellis · Rating 4 out of 5]

J.E. Weiner’s The Wretched and the Undone is a haunting Southern Gothic epic that captures the raw beauty and unforgiving darkness of the Texas Hill Country. Through a layered narrative of family, faith, and the long shadows of vengeance, Weiner masterfully weaves historical fiction with elements of supernatural horror, delivering a story as unsettling as it is unforgettable.

At its heart, the novel follows Marcin and Agnieszka Anderwald, Polish immigrants seeking a fresh start in the tumultuous years leading up to the Civil War. Their arrival in Bandera, Texas, offers fleeting hope, but the couple soon becomes entangled in a chilling battle with a spectral force bent on their destruction. The supernatural tension is heightened by Weiner’s richly detailed portrayal of the era, immersing readers in the stark realities of frontier life.

Weiner’s characters are strikingly authentic, their inner struggles laid bare against the novel’s vast historical backdrop. From Arab camel wranglers to war-ravaged soldiers and a songstress slipping into madness, each voice contributes to a collective portrait of resilience and ruin. As generations of the Anderwald family confront the sins and traumas of the past, the novel explores the cyclical nature of fear, guilt, and the relentless pursuit of redemption.

What makes The Wretched and the Undone particularly compelling is its seamless blending of genres. While the ghostly presence of the vengeful specter evokes the hallmarks of classic Gothic horror, the novel also serves as a poignant reflection on the immigrant experience and the moral complexities of the American South. The prose is lyrical and immersive, painting the Hill Country landscape with an almost cinematic vividness.

For readers drawn to stories of historical depth, ghostly hauntings, and the enduring power of family bonds, The Wretched and the Undone is an unforgettable journey. With its expertly crafted suspense and profound emotional resonance, it is no surprise that the novel has earned accolades as a Killer Nashville Top Pick and a Claymore Award Finalist. J.E. Weiner has delivered a powerful and deeply affecting tale that lingers long after the final page.

[Cody · Rating 3 out of 5]

ARC

I’d like to thank HTF Publishing, Independent Book Publishers Association, and NetGalley for the opportunity to give “The Wretched and Undone” a read for an honest review.

It is clear that author J.E. Weiner has an affinity for period accuracy. Throughout the entirety of this novel, you are bathed in richly researched worlds. The writing is vivid, the characters are fully fleshed out, all combined to make a story that feels like a historical epic told in a mere 300 pages. But, with the period accuracy and attention to detail, you lose a bit of the storytelling magic, which I think was what made this novel falter some.

It felt like I was transported to these worlds, but it felt like I was reading something along the lines of a family biography, rather than a fictionalized novel. Now, there’s nothing wrong with that, since it shows the strength of Weiner’s writing, but it made for a book that felt more like a chore to read, rather than an enjoyable experience. The pacing of the novel took some time to get used to, which would speed up, and then move at a glacial pace for some time before picking up steam again. I was invested in the characters, but that didn’t seem to be enough to make me want to continue reading this, rather dreading having to continue on at times.

That being said, I didn’t dislike this novel by any means. I thought Weiner’s writing made for a smooth reading experience, and I thought that the characters were really well-written. It just took me forever to actually sit down and finish this book, which I normally would have consumed in a single session, rather than take two weeks to finish it. I am very excited to see what else Weiner does in the future, since they really have a talent for writing, I just hope to see something a little more streamlined and faster-paced than this. Still, it’s a historically accurate, at times spooky, novel that is worth checking out in the end.

[Holly · Rating 3 out of 5]

Thank you NetGalley for allowing me to listen to this audiobook for free in exchange for an honest review.
This is a story that follows a Polish immigrant family, living in Texas, throughout many generations. What ensues is a generational saga filled with heartbreak, sadness and triumph as well. Thus we as readers watch this family as well as the state of TX evolve and change from decade to decade.
There is a a supernatural aspect, which I felt fell very short. Often I forgot that was the reason for this families hardship because it was so far in the background of this story (at least for me) I never really felt its presence and I wish that had been developed a little better. However what was wonderful about this book is the atmospheric element, the rich history, and the generational story that unfolds. This author must have done the research, because the history was great. Unfortunately I am not a history buff, so the first half of this story was quite boring for me. I was looking for a supernatural horror story, and instead got a history lesson convoluted with many characters and confusing dialog, causing me to put the book down for a period. However I am happy that I picked it back up and continued to listen because in the second half the story stabilizes and we focus more on the family of John Marchand and his family. This is where I felt the story took root. Less characters were being introduced and it became easier to follow. I was much more invested in these characters because they were developed better and lasted longer. Over all this saved the book for me, they were interesting enough even without the supernatural suspense that was still lacking. I would recommend this to anyone who loves historical fiction and/or generational sagas. I would not recommend to those looking for a good supernatural horror thriller.

[Sarah Elizabeth · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thank you so much to NetGalley and the Publisher for the chance to read and review this title!!

Southern Gothic The Wretched and Undone is a multigenerational look at a family throughout the years, and what it is to be an outsider living in a place like Texas - somewhere that hasn’t garnered its stereotypes lightly. It is deeply personal and a story of much struggle, and one that moves at a breakneck speed through the years of the Anderwald Anderwalds was drawn to this story at first living in the same area the story is set, and the depth to which Weiner went to research and accurately portray the area is intensely impressive. Especially with a good portion of the story spanning WWI, WWII, and some spanning the Civil War - although a good deal less than other critics I’ve seen - the author does an impressive job at bringing in real world happenings to factor in around the lives of the Anderwalds. I loved the attention to detail played around the heritage of the Anderwalds, but I do wish that more attention had been payed to the curse that follows them through generations. It felt almost like an afterthought at times, just something to explain the misfortunes they’d occasionally face.

I appreciated that the family relationships and dynamics were so complex. Often when reading books about multigenerational families, you see the main family being perfect, with strife and the like only coming from outside; it takes a writer with real skill to deftly manage a family with such ups and downs within it.

Overall this is a complex, rich story that truly defines life over generations, and I would absolutely recommend it to anyone looking for such a saga.