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Bound by Wishes
He’s cursed by treachery. She’s bound by wishes. Together, they’ll find salvation. Or utter devastation…
Caleena has spent her career fighting for recognition in a male-dominated field. So when she’s summoned to Jalam to decipher an ancient language carved into the entrance of King Thalorian’s legendary mines, it’s the opportunity of a lifetime. But when an accident brings her face-to-face with a dangerously captivating genie, Caleena begins to question everything she thought she knew.
Ranen used to be a powerful king until his brother cursed him into servitude and bound him to a magic lamp. Revenge is all he craves, and he will stop at nothing to reclaim his stolen kingdom. Even if it means forcing his way into the palace by transforming the spirited archaeologist who freed him into a princess—and potentially a bride.
When Ranen uncovers the true scope of his brother’s plans, he knows his revenge—and his growing feelings for Caleena—will have to wait. They must work together to stop the coming darkness. But can Caleena put her faith in Ranen when it matters most? Or is trust a luxury she simply can’t afford?
Bound by Wishes , Book 1 in the Enchanted Deceptions series, is a no-spice romantasy loosely inspired by Aladdin with a morally grey hero, a strong heroine, and The Mummy vibes. Download today and get ready to fall for Caleena and Ranen.
Caleena has spent her career fighting for recognition in a male-dominated field. So when she’s summoned to Jalam to decipher an ancient language carved into the entrance of King Thalorian’s legendary mines, it’s the opportunity of a lifetime. But when an accident brings her face-to-face with a dangerously captivating genie, Caleena begins to question everything she thought she knew.
Ranen used to be a powerful king until his brother cursed him into servitude and bound him to a magic lamp. Revenge is all he craves, and he will stop at nothing to reclaim his stolen kingdom. Even if it means forcing his way into the palace by transforming the spirited archaeologist who freed him into a princess—and potentially a bride.
When Ranen uncovers the true scope of his brother’s plans, he knows his revenge—and his growing feelings for Caleena—will have to wait. They must work together to stop the coming darkness. But can Caleena put her faith in Ranen when it matters most? Or is trust a luxury she simply can’t afford?
Bound by Wishes , Book 1 in the Enchanted Deceptions series, is a no-spice romantasy loosely inspired by Aladdin with a morally grey hero, a strong heroine, and The Mummy vibes. Download today and get ready to fall for Caleena and Ranen.
410 pages, Kindle Edition
Published April 3, 2025
About the author
Jessica Spruill
4 books179 followersI am an author publishing my debut fantasy novel, OF SONG AND DARKNESS, in the summer of 2024. This will be a standalone with Little Mermaid vibes and a morally grey pirate captain.
By day, I work as a Registered Dietitian at a health department. By night, I escape into the fantasy worlds in my mind and bring them to you through my writing. I began my writing career on Wattpad as a paid writer, where you can find the first books I have written. I live with my husband and two German shorthaired pointers on the family farm. I am an avid baker and enjoy living off the land.
By day, I work as a Registered Dietitian at a health department. By night, I escape into the fantasy worlds in my mind and bring them to you through my writing. I began my writing career on Wattpad as a paid writer, where you can find the first books I have written. I live with my husband and two German shorthaired pointers on the family farm. I am an avid baker and enjoy living off the land.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 189 reviews
November 9, 2025
⤿ 1.5 ★
"Little sayyidi" ??? Really now. 🤨
"Little sayyidi" ??? Really now. 🤨
August 4, 2025
Ah where to even begin. I absolutely enjoyed reading this book, even if it did give me major anxiety and made me scared for a happy ending. Otherwise I would’ve finished it in one day, that’s how good it was. But I needed to take breaks so I didn’t completely destroy my mental state lol
It’s more of a 4.5 star rating. It wasn’t quite five star feeling for me, but it was pretty close!
I did really enjoy it, and I really loved the characters. Especially Renan hehe 🤭
I can’t wait for book two!! I have so manyyy questions I need answers. And a love confession. I think that’s one of the things that made me really mad lol
Anyway it held my attention and had me invested.
Would definitely recommend if you like intense, dark fantasy, with no-spice romance.
While it is clean, there are multiple references to past traumas and experiences that may trigger people.
Nothing happens on page, but it does go in some detail about what happened. I would recommend you read the trigger warnings for the book if you are concerned it may have something you can’t read. Or you can ask me and I’ll let you know.
It’s more of a 4.5 star rating. It wasn’t quite five star feeling for me, but it was pretty close!
I did really enjoy it, and I really loved the characters. Especially Renan hehe 🤭
I can’t wait for book two!! I have so manyyy questions I need answers. And a love confession. I think that’s one of the things that made me really mad lol
Anyway it held my attention and had me invested.
Would definitely recommend if you like intense, dark fantasy, with no-spice romance.
While it is clean, there are multiple references to past traumas and experiences that may trigger people.
Nothing happens on page, but it does go in some detail about what happened. I would recommend you read the trigger warnings for the book if you are concerned it may have something you can’t read. Or you can ask me and I’ll let you know.
March 23, 2025
The cover is gorgeous, as is all the artwork this author commissioned. The plot was plotting.
However, my biggest hang ups were the writing style and the chemistry between the two main characters. It was too insta-love and not much depth. It felt pretty shallow, and as a result I didn’t really connect to them which is a shame. I didn’t love some wordy choices, it felt too modern, and the style just felt a little younger?
This is an easy YA fantasy for those new to the genre, and AGAIN the plot and story are there and are solid. (there’s a reason I finished the book)but idk if I will read the following.
However, my biggest hang ups were the writing style and the chemistry between the two main characters. It was too insta-love and not much depth. It felt pretty shallow, and as a result I didn’t really connect to them which is a shame. I didn’t love some wordy choices, it felt too modern, and the style just felt a little younger?
This is an easy YA fantasy for those new to the genre, and AGAIN the plot and story are there and are solid. (there’s a reason I finished the book)but idk if I will read the following.
January 21, 2025
“I’d bring down the whole world if it meant keeping you safe, sayyida.”
✨✨✨✨✨/5
“Amidst twinkling stars and blazing planets, you shine brighter than anything in the sky, ya amar.”
Wow. I am in love. Where do I begin???
Let’s start off with our FMC, Caleena (also known as Cal, also known as the girl who can bring an all-powerful genie to his knees 😏). Caleena is an archeologist, and very good at what she does. She never expected to uncover an onyx black oil lamp after a freak accident occurred during one of her explorations, but by stumbling across it, she sets in motion a series of events that will change her life forever.
Then, we meet our MMC, Ranen. Ranen has been trapped in a cursed oil lamp for the past five years, all the while waiting for the perfect opportunity to seize a chance at freedom and revenge. However, upon exiting the lamp he discovers something that irks him greatly. He now has a new master, (a Sayyida, as he calls her 😏). A plan sparks in his mind, about how he could use this tiny common girl to his advantage. But, he may have gotten more than he bargained for and the more time they spend together, he starts to find it impossible to pull away.
As the story develops, we are presented with the perfect amount of playful banter, delicious tension, swoony chemistry, and incredibly high stakes that I devoured in a single day! Jessica Spruill has written a gorgeous Aladdin x The Mummy inspired fantasy romance, that sparkles like the piles of treasure within the Cave of Wonders.
If you love these tropes:
🧞 Touch her and die
🪔 Nightmare/comfort
💎 Forced proximity
🌹 He tends to her wounds
🧞♂️ Anxiety/ptsd rep
🪔 Only one elephant 🐘
💎 He teaches her how to flirt
🌹 No-spice fantasy
🧞♂️ Slow burn 🔥
Then you need Bound by Wishes in your life immediately!!
***A huge thanks to the author for letting me beta-read Bound by Wishes early, I can’t wait for the book to come out so I can put a physical copy on my shelf next to Of Song and Darkness! ❤️
✨✨✨✨✨/5
“Amidst twinkling stars and blazing planets, you shine brighter than anything in the sky, ya amar.”
Wow. I am in love. Where do I begin???
Let’s start off with our FMC, Caleena (also known as Cal, also known as the girl who can bring an all-powerful genie to his knees 😏). Caleena is an archeologist, and very good at what she does. She never expected to uncover an onyx black oil lamp after a freak accident occurred during one of her explorations, but by stumbling across it, she sets in motion a series of events that will change her life forever.
Then, we meet our MMC, Ranen. Ranen has been trapped in a cursed oil lamp for the past five years, all the while waiting for the perfect opportunity to seize a chance at freedom and revenge. However, upon exiting the lamp he discovers something that irks him greatly. He now has a new master, (a Sayyida, as he calls her 😏). A plan sparks in his mind, about how he could use this tiny common girl to his advantage. But, he may have gotten more than he bargained for and the more time they spend together, he starts to find it impossible to pull away.
As the story develops, we are presented with the perfect amount of playful banter, delicious tension, swoony chemistry, and incredibly high stakes that I devoured in a single day! Jessica Spruill has written a gorgeous Aladdin x The Mummy inspired fantasy romance, that sparkles like the piles of treasure within the Cave of Wonders.
If you love these tropes:
🧞 Touch her and die
🪔 Nightmare/comfort
💎 Forced proximity
🌹 He tends to her wounds
🧞♂️ Anxiety/ptsd rep
🪔 Only one elephant 🐘
💎 He teaches her how to flirt
🌹 No-spice fantasy
🧞♂️ Slow burn 🔥
Then you need Bound by Wishes in your life immediately!!
***A huge thanks to the author for letting me beta-read Bound by Wishes early, I can’t wait for the book to come out so I can put a physical copy on my shelf next to Of Song and Darkness! ❤️
February 3, 2026
⭐️5
Ohmygosh wow! I kinda don’t know what to say lol
I absolutely loved both of the MC’s, they were phenomenal!
Jessica did a spectacular job on this book, I was GLUED from page one. Oh and don’t even get me started on Ranen, that man! He’s one of the most protective men ever, and I was here for it! He kept Caleena safe and away from her nightmares🥹 He was broody and morally gray, and I absolutely loved it!🤭 I really loved those tender moment with them and when he healed her scars🥹🥲
I loved the time when he was her genie🤭
People don’t usually talk about the FMC’s but Caleena was amazing! Her character growth was wonderful and I loved seeing her transform into the woman she is now. She was brave, strong, and determined. And she went through a lot so she could become just that.
Oh my the suspense in the book was so good! The ending got me, I am so excited to start the next book🤭
tropes:
💜no-spice romantacy
🧞♂️he protects her
💜only one elephant
🧞♂️touch her and d!e
💜he calls her ‘ya amar’
🧞♂️morally gray mmc
💜betrayal
🧞♂️he falls first
💜dual pov
CONTENT:
- kisses only (closed door)
- no language
CW: death of a loved one, murder, blood, violence, mention of past attempted SA, attempted SA, anxiety attacks, PTSD, past parental abuse, alcohol
Ohmygosh wow! I kinda don’t know what to say lol
I absolutely loved both of the MC’s, they were phenomenal!
Jessica did a spectacular job on this book, I was GLUED from page one. Oh and don’t even get me started on Ranen, that man! He’s one of the most protective men ever, and I was here for it! He kept Caleena safe and away from her nightmares🥹 He was broody and morally gray, and I absolutely loved it!🤭 I really loved those tender moment with them and when he healed her scars🥹🥲
I loved the time when he was her genie🤭
People don’t usually talk about the FMC’s but Caleena was amazing! Her character growth was wonderful and I loved seeing her transform into the woman she is now. She was brave, strong, and determined. And she went through a lot so she could become just that.
Oh my the suspense in the book was so good! The ending got me, I am so excited to start the next book🤭
tropes:
💜no-spice romantacy
🧞♂️he protects her
💜only one elephant
🧞♂️touch her and d!e
💜he calls her ‘ya amar’
🧞♂️morally gray mmc
💜betrayal
🧞♂️he falls first
💜dual pov
CONTENT:
- kisses only (closed door)
- no language
CW: death of a loved one, murder, blood, violence, mention of past attempted SA, attempted SA, anxiety attacks, PTSD, past parental abuse, alcohol
April 6, 2026
Riveted the entire time
February 1, 2025
Wow. Blown away! I absolutely enjoyed and devoured Jessica’s book, Bound by Wishes! We have Caleena, our FMC, who is a spirited and sassy archaeologist who is just trying to do her job when she finds herself falling into an opening in the ground… dropping her into an underground cavern where she finds a mysterious black lamp. Ranen, our grumpy MMC, is a genie who was betrayed and has been trapped in his lamp for the past 500 years! I absolutely loved watching these two work together and then get to know eachother. This book has action, mystery, adventure and more! Jessica adds in a few twists and leaves your heart and mind shuddering at the very last sentence - I NEED the next book and only accept that good will prevail! This book takes you on a mystical ride into a magical kingdom… leaving you wanting more. I cannot wait for the next book.
Did Not Finish
February 14, 2026Dnf at 30%
April 17, 2025
3.75⭐️ ARC Review: The author explains this book as being a mix between the movies The Mummy and Aladdin. And if this book wasn’t exactly that! There were so many references that I really enjoyed. From Aladdin we’ve got a pet tiger, a carpet ride, a genie, and few small nods here and there. All good things. That particular genie though, instead of turning a street urchin into a Prince, he turns an archeologist into a Princess. And then proceeds to fall in love with her. I liked that twist on the story. Then we’ve got The Mummy. The references from this film were smaller. There were obviously some small nods throughout, but a curse from a tomb being the most prominent thing.
Okay, now. I really liked this book. But there were moments where the plot dragged, and there were things thrown in that I felt didn’t need to be. Like her journey getting back to Malik after all that stuff went down in the mines. That was unnecessary. That’s just one example. Also, the time was unclear. Like was this the early 1900s like the mummy? Or modern day? I have no clue.
Now the characters. I enjoyed them both. Caleena was a strong character but also had weaknesses. Those weaknesses end up making her stronger. But I like flawed characters. They seem more real to me when they have things they struggle with. And Ranen was as morally grey as they come. Especially that ending man. Woah. Where is it gonna go from there!? He better not do anything stupid. Other than the ending, I liked how protective he was of Caleena throughout. Very touch her and die. And when he calls her ya amar? Loved that too. I thought they were good together but they lacked a little chemistry. They still had chemistry but in small amounts.
All in all, I don’t need to tell you really anything else besides the fact it is very much like Aladdin and the Mummy. And if you like both films, this is all you need to convince you to read it.
That ending though! Like what!? I am very much reading the rest of this series.
*Thank you to the author, Jessica Spruill, for the complimentary copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Read if you enjoy:
- The Mummy
- Aladdin
- Forbidden romance
- Dual POV
- Closed-door romance
- Morally grey MMC
Content 💋:
- Kisses only
- No language
Okay, now. I really liked this book. But there were moments where the plot dragged, and there were things thrown in that I felt didn’t need to be. Like her journey getting back to Malik after all that stuff went down in the mines. That was unnecessary. That’s just one example. Also, the time was unclear. Like was this the early 1900s like the mummy? Or modern day? I have no clue.
Now the characters. I enjoyed them both. Caleena was a strong character but also had weaknesses. Those weaknesses end up making her stronger. But I like flawed characters. They seem more real to me when they have things they struggle with. And Ranen was as morally grey as they come. Especially that ending man. Woah. Where is it gonna go from there!? He better not do anything stupid. Other than the ending, I liked how protective he was of Caleena throughout. Very touch her and die. And when he calls her ya amar? Loved that too. I thought they were good together but they lacked a little chemistry. They still had chemistry but in small amounts.
All in all, I don’t need to tell you really anything else besides the fact it is very much like Aladdin and the Mummy. And if you like both films, this is all you need to convince you to read it.
That ending though! Like what!? I am very much reading the rest of this series.
*Thank you to the author, Jessica Spruill, for the complimentary copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Read if you enjoy:
- The Mummy
- Aladdin
- Forbidden romance
- Dual POV
- Closed-door romance
- Morally grey MMC
Content 💋:
- Kisses only
- No language
April 2, 2025
Noooo! She didn't!
🌷She just gave us a fast-paced, page-turner, twists and turns, need book 2 right now book!
🌷I am literally writing this after the end, and I am shocked, and I need to know what in the world happens....so... if you want to feel that, then Read this.
🌷Also, if you love a morally grey /protective MMC and a strong FMC with a past that she needs to overcome and push through, then Read This.
🌷Ohhh, but if you like snarky witty banter and a we kinda hate him and he hates us but please keep being near me while you hate me (oddly specific ... I know) then READ THIS!
🌷So...Do I recommend this book? YES! READ IT!
🌷Spice: 0
🌷Language:0
🌷Warning: Violence, PTSD, S.A. attempt(past), physical abuse, blood, death.
🌷She just gave us a fast-paced, page-turner, twists and turns, need book 2 right now book!
🌷I am literally writing this after the end, and I am shocked, and I need to know what in the world happens....so... if you want to feel that, then Read this.
🌷Also, if you love a morally grey /protective MMC and a strong FMC with a past that she needs to overcome and push through, then Read This.
🌷Ohhh, but if you like snarky witty banter and a we kinda hate him and he hates us but please keep being near me while you hate me (oddly specific ... I know) then READ THIS!
🌷So...Do I recommend this book? YES! READ IT!
🌷Spice: 0
🌷Language:0
🌷Warning: Violence, PTSD, S.A. attempt(past), physical abuse, blood, death.
May 10, 2026
5 🌟
Kindle Unlimited
This was so good! And that ending 😭
Kindle Unlimited
This was so good! And that ending 😭
April 22, 2025
2.5 stars - I liked the storyline at first, but some of it was very cringe that made me roll my eyes...
1. “I would love to watch my mouth if my genie would be so kind as to provide me with a mirror,” I said, smiling up at him with exaggerated sweetness, batting my eyelashes for effect.
2. I felt a pang of jealousy toward the sun, for it got to touch her in a way that I did not.
1. “I would love to watch my mouth if my genie would be so kind as to provide me with a mirror,” I said, smiling up at him with exaggerated sweetness, batting my eyelashes for effect.
2. I felt a pang of jealousy toward the sun, for it got to touch her in a way that I did not.
April 4, 2025
A mashup of my two favorite childhood movies? Yes, pleasssseee. Read this in less than 24 hours because I could not put it down!
April 3, 2025
I absolutely LOVED this book! It's so amazing in so many ways!
I fell in love with the story fairly quickly becoming immersed in it from the start and it never stopped holding me captive, I constantly wanted to know what would happen next, and never wanted to stop reading.
The world building is fantastic, from the descriptions of the scenery allowing you to visualize everything and see the beauty and the harshness, to the food, I mean there was so many mentions of this delicious food, I wish I was there! It is so well done and detailed, I could picture it all so clearly, especially the magic system. And the way the world works, the dynamic between the king and his people, the government, all of it was amazing!
There was also so much going on, things were constantly happening. Never a dull moment! There is action, danger, high-stakes, heart pounding moments, political intrigue, and the pacing is perfect! Not to mention, the banter, tension, sweet moments, and humour. There is literally a bit of everything!
Now, the FMC, Caleena is an archaeologist and she's worked hard for her position. She is super smart, strong, brave, and compassionate. She is also vulnerable though she hates it, she deals with anxiety and panic attacks making her so real and relatable. She has a lot of fear that she overcomes becoming stronger and she learns to trust again bit by bit. She is also sarcastic and sassy, and speaks her mind no matter the cost. Which I loved about her!
The MMC, Renan, is a morally grey Genie who was once a king. Bent on revenge and getting what has been taken from him, he definitely has anger issues. But he is also caring, protective, flirty, and willing to do whatever it takes to keep Caleena safe. He grows to open his heart and care more about someone else other than himself. He has a lot of darkness in his path but wants to get away from that, he wants to be better. At least I think so. Also he is literally the epitome of touch her and 💀
Their relationship is fairly slow burn, with both of them reluctant to admit they have feelings for the other. It's full of tension, and banter, humour, both drawn to the other. There is some angry and "I hate you" moments but it also has super sweet moments of learning to trust and lean on the other. The way Ranen takes care of Caleena is 🫠 swoony for sure!
There are so many plot twists! So many truths revealed! And still mysteries to be uncovered I'm sure because...that ENDING! My heart was pounding for Caleena, like WOW! Such a mean cliffhanger but totally worth reading because it's just so good!
Content: No-Spice/kisses only, no swearing, mentions past attempted sexual assault, murder/death, blood/wounds, violence, past parental abuse mentioned, anxiety and panic attacks, PTSD, death of a loved one, dark images.
I fell in love with the story fairly quickly becoming immersed in it from the start and it never stopped holding me captive, I constantly wanted to know what would happen next, and never wanted to stop reading.
The world building is fantastic, from the descriptions of the scenery allowing you to visualize everything and see the beauty and the harshness, to the food, I mean there was so many mentions of this delicious food, I wish I was there! It is so well done and detailed, I could picture it all so clearly, especially the magic system. And the way the world works, the dynamic between the king and his people, the government, all of it was amazing!
There was also so much going on, things were constantly happening. Never a dull moment! There is action, danger, high-stakes, heart pounding moments, political intrigue, and the pacing is perfect! Not to mention, the banter, tension, sweet moments, and humour. There is literally a bit of everything!
Now, the FMC, Caleena is an archaeologist and she's worked hard for her position. She is super smart, strong, brave, and compassionate. She is also vulnerable though she hates it, she deals with anxiety and panic attacks making her so real and relatable. She has a lot of fear that she overcomes becoming stronger and she learns to trust again bit by bit. She is also sarcastic and sassy, and speaks her mind no matter the cost. Which I loved about her!
The MMC, Renan, is a morally grey Genie who was once a king. Bent on revenge and getting what has been taken from him, he definitely has anger issues. But he is also caring, protective, flirty, and willing to do whatever it takes to keep Caleena safe. He grows to open his heart and care more about someone else other than himself. He has a lot of darkness in his path but wants to get away from that, he wants to be better. At least I think so. Also he is literally the epitome of touch her and 💀
Their relationship is fairly slow burn, with both of them reluctant to admit they have feelings for the other. It's full of tension, and banter, humour, both drawn to the other. There is some angry and "I hate you" moments but it also has super sweet moments of learning to trust and lean on the other. The way Ranen takes care of Caleena is 🫠 swoony for sure!
There are so many plot twists! So many truths revealed! And still mysteries to be uncovered I'm sure because...that ENDING! My heart was pounding for Caleena, like WOW! Such a mean cliffhanger but totally worth reading because it's just so good!
Content: No-Spice/kisses only, no swearing, mentions past attempted sexual assault, murder/death, blood/wounds, violence, past parental abuse mentioned, anxiety and panic attacks, PTSD, death of a loved one, dark images.
March 4, 2025
Bound By Wishes by Jessica Spruill is a fast-paced fantasy that you just can’t get your hands off of.
** I would like to express my thanks to ☆ Jessica Spruill ☆ for providing me this ARC in exchange for an honest review **
An absolute perfect way to describe this book as the author does is where Aladdin meets the Mummy. We have archaeological dig sites, other worldly magic that just doesn’t seem real, and two individuals that are bound by the magic of the lamp. To top it all off we have a revenge plot, court scheming, and an overarching villain. Gosh there is just so much of this that I loved.
This book was fast-paced and there was no boring part of the book. I seriously couldn’t put it down until I finished reading all of it. Both of the main characters were wonderful, and Malik was a character that you couldn’t ignore either. The entire time I was wondering where the author would take the book and that ending!!!!!! There were points in time where I wondered where the author would be taking the book but I should have known that there would be a second to follow. I also loved the budding relationship between the characters and how in the future book there will be more growth to have. This book lightly touched on the relationship between the two and in this one there was a lot of individual growth that I really appreciated! Gosh what Ranen did for her was squeal worthy!
I highly recommend if you are interested in the Mummy, danger, and Aladdin! Soooooo good! I can’t wait for the next one.
** I would like to express my thanks to ☆ Jessica Spruill ☆ for providing me this ARC in exchange for an honest review **
An absolute perfect way to describe this book as the author does is where Aladdin meets the Mummy. We have archaeological dig sites, other worldly magic that just doesn’t seem real, and two individuals that are bound by the magic of the lamp. To top it all off we have a revenge plot, court scheming, and an overarching villain. Gosh there is just so much of this that I loved.
This book was fast-paced and there was no boring part of the book. I seriously couldn’t put it down until I finished reading all of it. Both of the main characters were wonderful, and Malik was a character that you couldn’t ignore either. The entire time I was wondering where the author would take the book and that ending!!!!!! There were points in time where I wondered where the author would be taking the book but I should have known that there would be a second to follow. I also loved the budding relationship between the characters and how in the future book there will be more growth to have. This book lightly touched on the relationship between the two and in this one there was a lot of individual growth that I really appreciated! Gosh what Ranen did for her was squeal worthy!
I highly recommend if you are interested in the Mummy, danger, and Aladdin! Soooooo good! I can’t wait for the next one.
April 3, 2025
“I’d bring down the whole world if it meant keeping you safe, sayyida.”
Bound By Wishes by Jessica Spruill
Release date: April 3rd, 2025
Rating:⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.25
Age rating:17+
Spice:none
Thank you Jessica Spruill for this arc! This book was so fun! The plot was interesting and kept me entertained, and I loved the setting. I love Caleena, she is such a good character and I love her and want to give her the biggest hug. She’s been through so much and she’s so strong. She’s also incredibly sassy and sarcastic (which I am as well) so I loved that about her. Ranen *screams* is also such an amazing character. Guys he will literally destroy anyone who dares to try and hurt her it’s amazing. I loved getting his pov and seeing how he thinks. The banter between the two of them was just perfect. I love love love banter like this and ate up every single sentence between them. Now the ending. THE ENDING. I need book two immediately I need answers! I had this terrible feeling of something big about be revealed and I was correct. And now I’m going to be thinking about it till I get my hands on the sequel. I definitely recommend if you want a fast paced romantasy with a hot genie that’s super easy to binge.
P.S. check the trigger warnings before you read this one
Bound By Wishes by Jessica Spruill
Release date: April 3rd, 2025
Rating:⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.25
Age rating:17+
Spice:none
Thank you Jessica Spruill for this arc! This book was so fun! The plot was interesting and kept me entertained, and I loved the setting. I love Caleena, she is such a good character and I love her and want to give her the biggest hug. She’s been through so much and she’s so strong. She’s also incredibly sassy and sarcastic (which I am as well) so I loved that about her. Ranen *screams* is also such an amazing character. Guys he will literally destroy anyone who dares to try and hurt her it’s amazing. I loved getting his pov and seeing how he thinks. The banter between the two of them was just perfect. I love love love banter like this and ate up every single sentence between them. Now the ending. THE ENDING. I need book two immediately I need answers! I had this terrible feeling of something big about be revealed and I was correct. And now I’m going to be thinking about it till I get my hands on the sequel. I definitely recommend if you want a fast paced romantasy with a hot genie that’s super easy to binge.
P.S. check the trigger warnings before you read this one
March 21, 2025
I fell in love with Jessica's storytelling in her debut, Of Song and Darkness, a beautiful, darker retelling of Little Mermaid. Jessica knows how to pull you in, enchant you and make you feel like you've entered the pages of her books. Bound by Wishes, Book 1 of her Enchanted Deceptions series, is no different.
In Bound by Wishes, we enter a world inspired by Aladdin—a world of enchantment, deception, and intrigue. Perfect for a female archaeologist eager to explore, discover, and uncover mysteries and even more perfect for a genie with a thirst for revenge and power. And perfect for us readers to lose ourselves in it all.
The story flowed perfectly; the world-building was immersive without being overbearing. The characters were crafted in a way that made them seem real and raw in their imperfections and struggles.
Could this thirst for power and revenge dethrone love, connection, and devotion? We have yet to see, and after that cliffhanger, I am scared. Scared but still hopeful. Hopeful that the light and goodness will find their way, even amid the darkness and shadows.
I love being a part of Jessica's team and having the opportunity to ARC read her books. She deserves all the recognition and success she can get.
In Bound by Wishes, we enter a world inspired by Aladdin—a world of enchantment, deception, and intrigue. Perfect for a female archaeologist eager to explore, discover, and uncover mysteries and even more perfect for a genie with a thirst for revenge and power. And perfect for us readers to lose ourselves in it all.
The story flowed perfectly; the world-building was immersive without being overbearing. The characters were crafted in a way that made them seem real and raw in their imperfections and struggles.
Could this thirst for power and revenge dethrone love, connection, and devotion? We have yet to see, and after that cliffhanger, I am scared. Scared but still hopeful. Hopeful that the light and goodness will find their way, even amid the darkness and shadows.
I love being a part of Jessica's team and having the opportunity to ARC read her books. She deserves all the recognition and success she can get.
April 12, 2026
“Bound by Wishes” came to me as my first ever “blind date with a book,” and it was a ride from start to finish. Knowing absolutely nothing going in, it was interesting trying to figure out the story and where it was headed (and I was more than a little pleased with myself for picking up the themes of both “Aladdin” and “The Mummy” as marketed on the author’s social media platform). The prose was rich with some stellar comparisons/similes sprinkled throughout. And the banter between the FMC and MMC??? Some of the best I’ve read!! Filled with equal parts clean tension and adventure, it held my attention from cover to cover.
March 5, 2025
When I tell you this book has the most immaculate vibes! The world building is lush and unique.
The banter between Ranen and Caleena was so entertaining. He's stubborn and wants to do everything and she's a little hot headed and independent.
Watching Caleena over come her struggles and gain some self confidence through the book was so heart warming, and I love her character so much.
Ranen has one goal and it's not to fall for the spunky archeologist... but only time will tell what will happen.
The twists in the book kept coming out of left field and I constantly had to put the book down stare at the wall for a couple of minutes and then pick the book back up. And the ending.....
Jessica did such an amazing job with this book and I absolutely cannot wait to read the next one!!
Genre: Adult Fantasy Romance
Spice: Between no spice and closed door
Language: Mild
Thank you to the author for an arc, all thoughts are my own.
The banter between Ranen and Caleena was so entertaining. He's stubborn and wants to do everything and she's a little hot headed and independent.
Watching Caleena over come her struggles and gain some self confidence through the book was so heart warming, and I love her character so much.
Ranen has one goal and it's not to fall for the spunky archeologist... but only time will tell what will happen.
The twists in the book kept coming out of left field and I constantly had to put the book down stare at the wall for a couple of minutes and then pick the book back up. And the ending.....
Jessica did such an amazing job with this book and I absolutely cannot wait to read the next one!!
Genre: Adult Fantasy Romance
Spice: Between no spice and closed door
Language: Mild
Thank you to the author for an arc, all thoughts are my own.
April 6, 2025
Bound by Wishes
3.5 for me
An exciting fantasy adventure that had djinn, genies, magic, mayhem, and mummies!
The story was a thrilling blend of The Mummy and Aladdin. It was full of action and suspense.
The story moved fast with lots of elements of intrigue like bridal contests, strong FMC, unlikely hero, overcoming fear, tragic past, reluctant allies, no spice, respectful genie MMC, fantasy adventure, quest, good vs evil, and more!
3.5 for me
An exciting fantasy adventure that had djinn, genies, magic, mayhem, and mummies!
The story was a thrilling blend of The Mummy and Aladdin. It was full of action and suspense.
The story moved fast with lots of elements of intrigue like bridal contests, strong FMC, unlikely hero, overcoming fear, tragic past, reluctant allies, no spice, respectful genie MMC, fantasy adventure, quest, good vs evil, and more!
April 12, 2025
I loved this book! It gripped me from the very first page. The story was engaging. Ranen was swoony and dreamy. He’s a morally grey genie. It’s touch her and 💀. It’s a cliffhanger ending, but even I didn’t see that coming! It’s a slow burn, no spice fantasy book on KU now!
It’s Aladdin meets The Mummy. Need I say more? 🫠
It’s Aladdin meets The Mummy. Need I say more? 🫠
December 4, 2025
Run, don’t walk to get this book! 🙌 I’m so happy I’ve found this author- someone who knows how to do a clean book with a slightly darker edge. I believe the author categorises this as an adult non spicy fantasy which I absolutely love. 😍
It has fantasy, romance, slightly darker, mature themes without crossing any boundaries and keeps it clean.
This story had all the things I love including pet names!!! 🫣 And the tension between them both was sizzling but still clean! 👏👏👏 Very well done!
I also absolutely loved the way this was based on a bit of an Aladdin type theme but obviously completely different.
After that ending, I need the second book- now!!!
It has fantasy, romance, slightly darker, mature themes without crossing any boundaries and keeps it clean.
This story had all the things I love including pet names!!! 🫣 And the tension between them both was sizzling but still clean! 👏👏👏 Very well done!
I also absolutely loved the way this was based on a bit of an Aladdin type theme but obviously completely different.
After that ending, I need the second book- now!!!
October 21, 2025
A clean, not smutty, fantasy. Almost like an Aladdin retelling with hints of a biblical Queen Ester. As an archeologist, she finds a lamp that contains a genie. Granted 3 wishes, and an agreement to help him save the kingdom he once ruled, she’s transported into a world of magic and mystery, not knowing it will unravel who she believed she was, and all she thought she knew.
Also, that ending. What!????!!!!!!
Also, I got real into the story about half way through, until then I wondered if it would speed up. It did.
Also, that ending. What!????!!!!!!
Also, I got real into the story about half way through, until then I wondered if it would speed up. It did.
January 3, 2026
wishes
A tangled romance adventure haunted by evil. Clean. Mysterious. I took awhile to read this because I’m still unsure if I like this guy. I’m kind of a leopards can’t change their spots gal. We shall see.
A tangled romance adventure haunted by evil. Clean. Mysterious. I took awhile to read this because I’m still unsure if I like this guy. I’m kind of a leopards can’t change their spots gal. We shall see.
April 29, 2025
I loved that this wasn’t an overtly word for word Aladdin retelling and reminded me a little of Indiana Jones as well. The romance was 11/10 and not spicy for once, and that cliffhanger??? Need the next one ASA fucking P.
Recommend if you love retellings!
Recommend if you love retellings!
October 28, 2025
This was my first non-spice Romantasy book. It was so GOOD!! A Aladdin retelling? Shadow daddy genie? Say no more!!! Ahhh!
February 14, 2026
I liked this a lot more than I thought! no spice, no language, and a fairly good plot. I think i’ll be reading the next one!
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February 15, 2026Review to come after book club…
February 20, 2026
I thought the premise of this book was good. It was an Aladdin retelling which was an interesting idea. I felt parts of it dragged and I struggled to get through it.
May 11, 2026
For anyone who loves a good fantasy dripping with imagery, action, adventure and heart, this one is for you. Be prepared to jump right into book 2. This is a story you have to see though to the end.
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