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Reborn Villainess #1
Villainess's Redemption
A sword through her heart changed everything...
Lady Ilyana D'Arcane watched helplessly as her family was executed for treason. In her final moments, she made a desperate wish — and woke up two years in the past, on her wedding day to a man she no longer loved.
Armed with knowledge of the future, Ilyana must navigate the treacherous waters of court politics, plots, and assassinations, if she is to save her family. Before long, she is drawn into a dangerous game of cat and mouse with Prince Anderic Voltaire, the kingdom's most dangerous predator — and the very man who sealed her family's fate in her past life.
In a court where every smile hides a dagger and every whisper is a poison, can Ilyana change her destiny without losing herself — or her heart — in the process?
Villainess's Redemption by Vanessa Rhoswen is the first installment in a captivating time travel romance duology, where the lines between good and evil are blurred, and the past and present collide.
Tropes :Time travel / Reincarnation / SLOW BURN / Enemies to lovers / New adult
Lady Ilyana D'Arcane watched helplessly as her family was executed for treason. In her final moments, she made a desperate wish — and woke up two years in the past, on her wedding day to a man she no longer loved.
Armed with knowledge of the future, Ilyana must navigate the treacherous waters of court politics, plots, and assassinations, if she is to save her family. Before long, she is drawn into a dangerous game of cat and mouse with Prince Anderic Voltaire, the kingdom's most dangerous predator — and the very man who sealed her family's fate in her past life.
In a court where every smile hides a dagger and every whisper is a poison, can Ilyana change her destiny without losing herself — or her heart — in the process?
Villainess's Redemption by Vanessa Rhoswen is the first installment in a captivating time travel romance duology, where the lines between good and evil are blurred, and the past and present collide.
Tropes :Time travel / Reincarnation / SLOW BURN / Enemies to lovers / New adult
276 pages, Kindle Edition
Published February 22, 2025
About the author
Vanessa Rhoswen
5 books28 followersVanessa Rhoswen writes fantasy, contemporary, and urban fantasy romance novels. An avid reader and fan of Korean dramas and Manhwas, her stories are inspired by the characters, worlds, and emotions she’s encountered in these mediums. She loves to explore the imaginary and magical worlds that transport her to realms beyond the ordinary, where myth and magic reign.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 72 reviews
February 3, 2025
Wait, what?? That ending. Surely this story isn’t done??
Okay, while I contain my shock, let’s backtrack… this ARC is about a royal girl who gets a second chance at changing the coarse of her future. A future where she & her family are alive and safe. She does everything she can to undo the scheming she & her father did to get her the future she thought she wanted. She changes her evil ways and tries to right her wrongs.
The storyline was fun to follow. Ilyana, the FMC, was likable, witty and very talented with forethought. She has a maid, Laurel, who is fiercely loyal and adds a bit of humor to their dynamic. There’s Noah & Anderic, one is written to be forgettable (IMO), while the other is a potential book boyfriend 😍 I won’t spoil who is who! You’ll have to read it to find out!
It ends strangely close to how it began, which now that I’m thinking about it, it kind of makes sense! Although the shock I felt of it ending as it did is very much still there!
I really liked this story & am hoping there’s more but also feel like it was full circle enough to end as a standalone. Rated 4.5⭐️!
Okay, while I contain my shock, let’s backtrack… this ARC is about a royal girl who gets a second chance at changing the coarse of her future. A future where she & her family are alive and safe. She does everything she can to undo the scheming she & her father did to get her the future she thought she wanted. She changes her evil ways and tries to right her wrongs.
The storyline was fun to follow. Ilyana, the FMC, was likable, witty and very talented with forethought. She has a maid, Laurel, who is fiercely loyal and adds a bit of humor to their dynamic. There’s Noah & Anderic, one is written to be forgettable (IMO), while the other is a potential book boyfriend 😍 I won’t spoil who is who! You’ll have to read it to find out!
It ends strangely close to how it began, which now that I’m thinking about it, it kind of makes sense! Although the shock I felt of it ending as it did is very much still there!
I really liked this story & am hoping there’s more but also feel like it was full circle enough to end as a standalone. Rated 4.5⭐️!
February 1, 2025
This story has everything that I look for in a book, the right amount of adventure, cliff hangers, plots twists and romance. It reads so smooth and quick and leaves you wanting more. I look forward to reading more of Vanessa’s work and eagerly await the second one!
March 12, 2025
4.5/5⭐ need the second book, like, yesterday. redemption + time travel/regression? that's my catnip
February 26, 2025
A Hidden Gem You Need to Read!
I love a good redemption story, and this one absolutely delivered!
Villainess’s Redemption is such an underrated gem—mystery, scheming, tension, and a main character who actually thinks before she acts? Yes, please! This was such a fun, engaging read, and I honestly can’t believe more people aren’t talking about it.
The best part? The plotting. The careful, strategic way the Ilyana plays the game, turning enemies into allies and shifting the course of her own fate, had me hooked. She’s the only one who knows what’s coming, and watching her rewrite her own story—whether by making different choices, repairing broken relationships, or using her knowledge to outmaneuver those who would harm her—was so satisfying. It’s the ultimate girl against the world kind of story, and I was so invested.
Now, let’s talk about the romance. It’s a slow burn (which I love), and what makes it even better is that it never overshadows the main story. It’s there, simmering in the background, but it develops naturally alongside the larger plot. No insta-love, no unnecessary drama—just a romance that grows at the perfect pace while all the intrigue and scheming unfold. Loved it.
I cannot tell you how refreshing Ilyana as a FMC was! She’s not your typical arrogant, reckless, “I’ll-burn-the-world-down” fantasy heroine. Instead, she’s clever, kind, and strong in a way that actually makes sense. She’s not just out for revenge—she’s fixing the mistakes of her past, trying to make amends while still standing up for herself. I love that she’s self-aware enough to admit when she was wrong and strong enough to face the consequences. But don’t mistake kindness for weakness—when she needs to, she’s fierce, confident, and absolutely daring. She’s got fire under her skin, but she knows when to use it. Honestly? One of my favorite protagonists in a while.✨️
Every single side character was so well written. Even the more “evil” ones were complex and layered, and I loved how Ilyana didn’t just blindly hate them. She sees people for who they really are, understands their motives, and—even when she can’t change them—she accepts them. Some she wins over, some she doesn’t, but it’s never predictable, and that made every interaction feel real.
And then… THAT ENDING. I swear, I almost fell out of my chair. HOW DARE IT END LIKE THIS? I need the sequel immediately, because I have questions. And feelings. And I am not okay.
Final Thoughts
I genuinely don’t understand why Villainess’s Redemption isn’t more popular, because it’s so good. If you love:
✔ Smart, strategic heroines who actually think through their actions
✔ A slow-burn romance that doesn’t overpower the main story
✔ Mystery, tension, and carefully crafted plot twists
✔ A redemption arc that’s more about growth than just revenge
Then please read this book! It deserves so much more attention, and I’ll be first in line for the sequel.
I love a good redemption story, and this one absolutely delivered!
Villainess’s Redemption is such an underrated gem—mystery, scheming, tension, and a main character who actually thinks before she acts? Yes, please! This was such a fun, engaging read, and I honestly can’t believe more people aren’t talking about it.
The best part? The plotting. The careful, strategic way the Ilyana plays the game, turning enemies into allies and shifting the course of her own fate, had me hooked. She’s the only one who knows what’s coming, and watching her rewrite her own story—whether by making different choices, repairing broken relationships, or using her knowledge to outmaneuver those who would harm her—was so satisfying. It’s the ultimate girl against the world kind of story, and I was so invested.
Now, let’s talk about the romance. It’s a slow burn (which I love), and what makes it even better is that it never overshadows the main story. It’s there, simmering in the background, but it develops naturally alongside the larger plot. No insta-love, no unnecessary drama—just a romance that grows at the perfect pace while all the intrigue and scheming unfold. Loved it.
I cannot tell you how refreshing Ilyana as a FMC was! She’s not your typical arrogant, reckless, “I’ll-burn-the-world-down” fantasy heroine. Instead, she’s clever, kind, and strong in a way that actually makes sense. She’s not just out for revenge—she’s fixing the mistakes of her past, trying to make amends while still standing up for herself. I love that she’s self-aware enough to admit when she was wrong and strong enough to face the consequences. But don’t mistake kindness for weakness—when she needs to, she’s fierce, confident, and absolutely daring. She’s got fire under her skin, but she knows when to use it. Honestly? One of my favorite protagonists in a while.✨️
Every single side character was so well written. Even the more “evil” ones were complex and layered, and I loved how Ilyana didn’t just blindly hate them. She sees people for who they really are, understands their motives, and—even when she can’t change them—she accepts them. Some she wins over, some she doesn’t, but it’s never predictable, and that made every interaction feel real.
And then… THAT ENDING. I swear, I almost fell out of my chair. HOW DARE IT END LIKE THIS? I need the sequel immediately, because I have questions. And feelings. And I am not okay.
Final Thoughts
I genuinely don’t understand why Villainess’s Redemption isn’t more popular, because it’s so good. If you love:
✔ Smart, strategic heroines who actually think through their actions
✔ A slow-burn romance that doesn’t overpower the main story
✔ Mystery, tension, and carefully crafted plot twists
✔ A redemption arc that’s more about growth than just revenge
Then please read this book! It deserves so much more attention, and I’ll be first in line for the sequel.
April 18, 2025
Decent. Not the best. Romance sucks.
We get the typical time-travel story line. Villainess regrets her choice at the moment of death and miraculously goes back in time right before things went wrong.
I dislikes that Illyana didn't own herself. She clearly defined herself as a villainess and tried real hard to be a 'heroine' instead. I'd rather she not think so black and white and just own herself as an intelligent and driven woman.
All the male characters in this book suck eggs. I hate all of them. Even the supposed love interest, the crown prince. He's her childhood friend who is ready to blame her for the rain when the forecast said sunny. It was just too much. And after all that unnecessary aggro they just start kissing? I need my Male Leads to be more worthy. Take a note from 'Death Is The Only Ending For The Villainess'. A true male lead should never accuse you with the barest hint of paper thin evidence. Also it was super wrong that the husband was investigating his wife's family. Like you might not love her but have a sense of loyalty and pride as a man. Don't do stuff that will shame your lawful wife. That's like rule #1 of being a husband.
And the OG FL? That girl her husband truly loves. The one who triumphed over Illya's evil ways in the original time line? Such a disappointment! She's a resentful child who resorts to violence at the merest taunt. At least give me a white lotus. A rival worthy of my protagonist.
Since the book was short I pressed on figuring I might as well see how this ends. It did seem like they were setting her up to be Queen but it didn't seem like the plot would even have time to cover the divorce. And I was right! It left off on a cliffhanger which was way disappointing!
I just feel so angry and tense after reading this! I love the set up. I'm a huge fan of the gimmick. But I think I've read so much of the gimmick that I'm spoiled. I need this done right or not at all.
I think I'll reread 'The Villainess Turns the Hourglass' to sooth my nerves. -_-
We get the typical time-travel story line. Villainess regrets her choice at the moment of death and miraculously goes back in time right before things went wrong.
I dislikes that Illyana didn't own herself. She clearly defined herself as a villainess and tried real hard to be a 'heroine' instead. I'd rather she not think so black and white and just own herself as an intelligent and driven woman.
All the male characters in this book suck eggs. I hate all of them. Even the supposed love interest, the crown prince. He's her childhood friend who is ready to blame her for the rain when the forecast said sunny. It was just too much. And after all that unnecessary aggro they just start kissing? I need my Male Leads to be more worthy. Take a note from 'Death Is The Only Ending For The Villainess'. A true male lead should never accuse you with the barest hint of paper thin evidence. Also it was super wrong that the husband was investigating his wife's family. Like you might not love her but have a sense of loyalty and pride as a man. Don't do stuff that will shame your lawful wife. That's like rule #1 of being a husband.
And the OG FL? That girl her husband truly loves. The one who triumphed over Illya's evil ways in the original time line? Such a disappointment! She's a resentful child who resorts to violence at the merest taunt. At least give me a white lotus. A rival worthy of my protagonist.
Since the book was short I pressed on figuring I might as well see how this ends. It did seem like they were setting her up to be Queen but it didn't seem like the plot would even have time to cover the divorce. And I was right! It left off on a cliffhanger which was way disappointing!
I just feel so angry and tense after reading this! I love the set up. I'm a huge fan of the gimmick. But I think I've read so much of the gimmick that I'm spoiled. I need this done right or not at all.
I think I'll reread 'The Villainess Turns the Hourglass' to sooth my nerves. -_-
February 22, 2025
4.25/5 Stars
Thank you to the author for my ARC copy of this book, & congratulations on your first book being published!!
I rate books off of vibes. I personally don’t care about how fancy a book sounds. I want to be immersed into the story & have a good time. This book is so cute!! Does it need another round of editing? Yes. Did that take away from my enjoyment of the book? No.
This book had everything: cute banter, a very interesting concept with time travel & second chances, scheming, fmc trying to undo her past, loyal lady’s maid, & slow burn romance
This book gave me major Bridgerton vibes & I loved that. This book was so easy to get immersed into & was an easy read that whisked me off to a fantasyland.
I can’t wait for the sequel!!!
Thank you to the author for my ARC copy of this book, & congratulations on your first book being published!!
I rate books off of vibes. I personally don’t care about how fancy a book sounds. I want to be immersed into the story & have a good time. This book is so cute!! Does it need another round of editing? Yes. Did that take away from my enjoyment of the book? No.
This book had everything: cute banter, a very interesting concept with time travel & second chances, scheming, fmc trying to undo her past, loyal lady’s maid, & slow burn romance
This book gave me major Bridgerton vibes & I loved that. This book was so easy to get immersed into & was an easy read that whisked me off to a fantasyland.
I can’t wait for the sequel!!!
February 27, 2025
This book kept my attention it was a really cute quick read and I enjoyed the witty banter between our lead lady and our leading male, there were twists and turns and the book ends in a cliffhanger that has me looking forward to the next book especially since we don't quite have the full story yet lots of mentions of multiple previous "evil" schemes but the story only really discusses a few of these schemes. This felt like reading a light novel and I really enjoyed that aspect of it.
This was an easy light read with humor and would recommend to anyone looking for that type of book!
Some typos/repeat sentences in places but I didn't feel like it distracted me too much from being able to enjoy the book.
*witty banter *enemies --> more? * fantasy * time travel *reincarnation *mainly one POV from our lead lady *felt like a YA type book *not spicy *slow burn
wrote more about this on my blog:
https://elbyslibrary.blogspot.com/202...
This was an easy light read with humor and would recommend to anyone looking for that type of book!
Some typos/repeat sentences in places but I didn't feel like it distracted me too much from being able to enjoy the book.
*witty banter *enemies --> more? * fantasy * time travel *reincarnation *mainly one POV from our lead lady *felt like a YA type book *not spicy *slow burn
wrote more about this on my blog:
https://elbyslibrary.blogspot.com/202...
February 11, 2025
• Big thanks to the author, Vanessa Rhoswen for giving me an opportunity to read the book before it was released. •
I can’t wait for the second book, I can’t believe it ended like that!
While reading it, it reminded me so much of webtoon/manhwas/manga and I am living for it. I love how engaging the writing was it’s a book I couldn’t put down I’m excited to see how the story will develop in the second book and how it’s going to be told.
I can’t wait for the second book, I can’t believe it ended like that!
While reading it, it reminded me so much of webtoon/manhwas/manga and I am living for it. I love how engaging the writing was it’s a book I couldn’t put down I’m excited to see how the story will develop in the second book and how it’s going to be told.
September 21, 2025
this is all I need😭🩷 I'm a simple girl🩷😭give me a good book and I'll surender 😭🩷 I DON'T HAVE HIGH STANDARDS!!! I just REFUSE to fall for the mainstream propaganda where they've programmed us to accept MID just because it's marketed as "deep". I'm going off the rails, anyway!
vanessa rhoswen you got me in your bag🙂↕️ 🫶🫶🫶 will be reading second one soon😋😋
vanessa rhoswen you got me in your bag🙂↕️ 🫶🫶🫶 will be reading second one soon😋😋
March 22, 2025
Did not expect this book to be so good. Can't wait for the next one!
March 1, 2025
Tão bom!!!! Adorei!!!
Mas aquele final? Não posso!
E ele chamou-a de PRINCESA!!!! Pq se está divorciada, então já pode casar-se com ele 😍😍😍
Mas aquele final? Não posso!
E ele chamou-a de PRINCESA!!!! Pq se está divorciada, então já pode casar-se com ele 😍😍😍
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 13, 2026
4.0 stars
I really liked the story, it's about Ilyana who was a shitty person in the past trying to correct her future when she's given a second chance. Personally my complaint is, that it's very plot and character driven with only a romantic subplot that starts in the second half. I liked the romance, it's slowburn and cute, but I wished for more (and I got more in the second book, for everyone looking for romance ;)). I really like Ilyana though and the way she tried to chance her future! Anderic remained a bit bland but I liked him more in the second book.
Interestingly Rosalind (the counterpart to Ilyana) is portrayed as the typical heroine (strong, good with weapons, every man falls for her) but I disliked her so much. She reminded me of a Mary Sue. 🫣
I really liked the story, it's about Ilyana who was a shitty person in the past trying to correct her future when she's given a second chance. Personally my complaint is, that it's very plot and character driven with only a romantic subplot that starts in the second half. I liked the romance, it's slowburn and cute, but I wished for more (and I got more in the second book, for everyone looking for romance ;)). I really like Ilyana though and the way she tried to chance her future! Anderic remained a bit bland but I liked him more in the second book.
Interestingly Rosalind (the counterpart to Ilyana) is portrayed as the typical heroine (strong, good with weapons, every man falls for her) but I disliked her so much. She reminded me of a Mary Sue. 🫣
August 31, 2025
Well written, thoroughly enjoyed the witty writing and the banter between characters.
The beginning drew me in as I felt sympathy for the suffering of Ilyana and her family and couldn't wait to find out how Ilyana reverses their doomed destiny. But the middle of the story lost urgency, tension impacting the momentum of the story. I didn't feel as invested as I did in the beginning.
But overall an entertaining read.
The beginning drew me in as I felt sympathy for the suffering of Ilyana and her family and couldn't wait to find out how Ilyana reverses their doomed destiny. But the middle of the story lost urgency, tension impacting the momentum of the story. I didn't feel as invested as I did in the beginning.
But overall an entertaining read.
March 9, 2025
Vanessa Rhoswen !! Just finished Villianess's Redemption and the way I hollored at the ending!!! Love this book and I am feeling feral for a second book! I applaud you and hope you're writing somewhere lol 👏👏💓💓
*also I think I need a hardcover edition if they might exist anywhere? Amazon and Barnes and Noble failed me lol
🌟 🌟 🌟 🌟 🌟
Time travel
Enemies to romance
Slow burn
Top tier banter
Review:
I couldn't put this book down! I love a good time travel romance, but the life-do-over, and redemption arc for the female lead was fantastic! I literally read this in the span of a few hours and then found myself slightly distraught a second book was not available to binge. Hoping the author is working on making book two since this ended on quite the cliff-hanger! I had to get up and pace when I only had 20 pages left because I knew there was no way the story could be finished in 20 pages! I just want to applaud the author here, this was very enjoyable! The cover art is stunning! The characters enjoyable with banter that I got drunk on, I re-read several scenes that I found myself grinning at. Ilyana's complex character from being a villianess to going on this path of redemption is enticing. Anderic is an excellent male lead who feels morally grey but gives *touch her and die* kind of vibes later. I will confess that even I can't stand Noah, but perhaps Ilyana and Laurel have corrupted me there. I give this five stars all the way and have the highest hopes this will be a series I get to dive further into!
*also I think I need a hardcover edition if they might exist anywhere? Amazon and Barnes and Noble failed me lol
🌟 🌟 🌟 🌟 🌟
Time travel
Enemies to romance
Slow burn
Top tier banter
Review:
I couldn't put this book down! I love a good time travel romance, but the life-do-over, and redemption arc for the female lead was fantastic! I literally read this in the span of a few hours and then found myself slightly distraught a second book was not available to binge. Hoping the author is working on making book two since this ended on quite the cliff-hanger! I had to get up and pace when I only had 20 pages left because I knew there was no way the story could be finished in 20 pages! I just want to applaud the author here, this was very enjoyable! The cover art is stunning! The characters enjoyable with banter that I got drunk on, I re-read several scenes that I found myself grinning at. Ilyana's complex character from being a villianess to going on this path of redemption is enticing. Anderic is an excellent male lead who feels morally grey but gives *touch her and die* kind of vibes later. I will confess that even I can't stand Noah, but perhaps Ilyana and Laurel have corrupted me there. I give this five stars all the way and have the highest hopes this will be a series I get to dive further into!
February 23, 2025
I enjoyed this book a lot! I thought the story idea and world was interesting to read about. I will say the beginning was a bit slow but once it gets going i did not want to stop reading. I needed to find out what would happen to ilyana!
I enjoyed that we see her character growth throughout the story. It’s fun and creates unexpected twists and turns for the FMC and also for the reader. I thought the author did a really good job of also slowly introducing our slow burn enemies to lovers MMC. The interactions and banter between them was so delicious! Some of my quotes i love showcasing this are below.
“His eyes widened slightly, the cold cerulean blue heating up, and for a brief moment, I thought I really would die. But then his mouth quirked up on one side as he smirked.”
‘“High praise indeed, Your Highness. Shall I swoon now, or would you prefer I wait until we have an audience?”’
Of course we all love a who did this to you trope. At least I do and this one did not disappoint.
“His jaw clenched, a muscle ticking in his cheek. “Ilyana,” he said, his voice softer now but no less intense. “Who did this to you?” The genuine concern in his voice threw me for a loop.”
Now I do have some things to critique. I wish we got a little more of a backstory for Ilyana’s misdeeds in the past. She’s describing herself as evil and bad in the beginning and as the reader we have no knowledge of why. It only starts to come to the surface a bit through the story. Which i did appreciate some explanation but wish there would have been more personally. I do think the characters and world could have been built up a bit more and this story could have then been longer due to that but again just a personal opinion.
I will say this does end with a cliffhanger and left me wanting another book so i do hope we get one. Overall i enjoyed the story and had fun while reading it. If you like bridgerton vibes with more mystery and slow burn then i think this is a book you’ll like!
I enjoyed that we see her character growth throughout the story. It’s fun and creates unexpected twists and turns for the FMC and also for the reader. I thought the author did a really good job of also slowly introducing our slow burn enemies to lovers MMC. The interactions and banter between them was so delicious! Some of my quotes i love showcasing this are below.
“His eyes widened slightly, the cold cerulean blue heating up, and for a brief moment, I thought I really would die. But then his mouth quirked up on one side as he smirked.”
‘“High praise indeed, Your Highness. Shall I swoon now, or would you prefer I wait until we have an audience?”’
Of course we all love a who did this to you trope. At least I do and this one did not disappoint.
“His jaw clenched, a muscle ticking in his cheek. “Ilyana,” he said, his voice softer now but no less intense. “Who did this to you?” The genuine concern in his voice threw me for a loop.”
Now I do have some things to critique. I wish we got a little more of a backstory for Ilyana’s misdeeds in the past. She’s describing herself as evil and bad in the beginning and as the reader we have no knowledge of why. It only starts to come to the surface a bit through the story. Which i did appreciate some explanation but wish there would have been more personally. I do think the characters and world could have been built up a bit more and this story could have then been longer due to that but again just a personal opinion.
I will say this does end with a cliffhanger and left me wanting another book so i do hope we get one. Overall i enjoyed the story and had fun while reading it. If you like bridgerton vibes with more mystery and slow burn then i think this is a book you’ll like!
April 6, 2025
This book can't end on a cliffhanger like that! Don't do this to me.
This book captivated me from beginning till the end, or rather somewhere in the middle as the story isn't finished yet.
A enemies to lovers story and maybe a lover turned to enemy?
I loved the character Ilyana as I'm sure I would have despised her past self. She has shown growth and remorse and does everything in her power to make things right. Ilyana has plotted and schemed, but as the story unfolds it becomes clear that she is only a small piece of a much larger game.
I really enjoyed the banter between her and Prince Alderic and can't wait for it to become more than just the banter.
I've got some feelings about certain someones and they are not of the good kind. But time will reveal everything.
What can I say, it's courts and politics and it's like playing a game of chess. Never knowing what your enemy/enemies will do. All you can do is anticipate, try to be strategic and hope for the best.
Vanessa Roshwen, Thank you for the ARC and please hurry up with the next one!
This book captivated me from beginning till the end, or rather somewhere in the middle as the story isn't finished yet.
A enemies to lovers story and maybe a lover turned to enemy?
I loved the character Ilyana as I'm sure I would have despised her past self. She has shown growth and remorse and does everything in her power to make things right. Ilyana has plotted and schemed, but as the story unfolds it becomes clear that she is only a small piece of a much larger game.
I really enjoyed the banter between her and Prince Alderic and can't wait for it to become more than just the banter.
I've got some feelings about certain someones and they are not of the good kind. But time will reveal everything.
What can I say, it's courts and politics and it's like playing a game of chess. Never knowing what your enemy/enemies will do. All you can do is anticipate, try to be strategic and hope for the best.
Vanessa Roshwen, Thank you for the ARC and please hurry up with the next one!
February 10, 2025
***ARC provided in exchange for an honest review***
3.5 stars
This book is a fun and lighthearted take on the "reborn villainess" trope, following Ilyana as she tries to change her fate. The theme of redemption is nicely done, with Ilyana’s determination and humor making her an enjoyable protagonist. She’s cute, funny, and genuinely wants to improve, making her journey engaging.
There is adventure, romance, and some exciting twists, but the pacing can be inconsistent. Some aspects of world-building could have been more developed. The writing has some grammatical errors due to the author’s non-native English, which may be distracting for some readers. I personally am not overly bothered by random spelling or grammatical errors when reading, so it didn’t really affect me.
Despite its flaws, the book has a charming, fanfic type of feel, making it an easy, quick read between my heavier series. It’s not perfect, but it’s an entertaining and promising first book!!
3.5 stars
This book is a fun and lighthearted take on the "reborn villainess" trope, following Ilyana as she tries to change her fate. The theme of redemption is nicely done, with Ilyana’s determination and humor making her an enjoyable protagonist. She’s cute, funny, and genuinely wants to improve, making her journey engaging.
There is adventure, romance, and some exciting twists, but the pacing can be inconsistent. Some aspects of world-building could have been more developed. The writing has some grammatical errors due to the author’s non-native English, which may be distracting for some readers. I personally am not overly bothered by random spelling or grammatical errors when reading, so it didn’t really affect me.
Despite its flaws, the book has a charming, fanfic type of feel, making it an easy, quick read between my heavier series. It’s not perfect, but it’s an entertaining and promising first book!!
March 9, 2025
4.5 stars rounded up to 5. There are a few things you need to be aware of before you start this book. The author is a non native English speaker and that shows in the sentence structure and in certain scenes descriptions. She makes that admission in the acknowledgements at the very beginning. The story revolves around a young noble women who lives in penury and who travels through time on the day of her violent death to two years back to the day of her wedding to the queens nephew. She then uses her insight on future and tries to save herself and her family from extreme poverty and death. I liked the storyline and the authors narration. There are many instances where it felt like a scene ended abruptly and that it could use a few more sentences for a seamless ending. But considering that this is the authors first book, I think we can forgive it. Highly recommend. B/w the story ends in a cliff hanger.
April 4, 2025
Reading the first few chapters were a bit confusing so they were harder to get through, but after that I started to get a little more into the story. You’re following Ilyana who essentially goes back in time and gets a second chance to hopefully make things right within the courts to save her and her family. Ilyana has a great character arc and works hard to mend her relationship with her maid, which is really sweet. I enjoyed the plot of this book. I enjoyed the banter between Ilyana and the dangerous prince Anderic. However, Ilyana goes through these trials and tribulations, but it did kind of feel like it never really got to that “point”. I also was kind of mad at the cliff hanger ending lol. So that’s why I gave the book 3/5 because I did not hate it, I enjoyed the plot, but it just did not get there for me. I would read book two because I feel like it could be redeeming for the first book!
February 8, 2025
I’m going to state, the author mentions in the beginning, English isn’t her native language, so there are quite a few grammatical errors. With that aside, I actually loved it in a fanfic way.
Ilyana is funny. She’s cute, and she wants to do better than in her previous life. The whole concept of a do over was fun. I think, because of the slight language barrier, there definitely could have been a more expansive background on the different countries, and how she ended up in the position she did. However, this story reminds me of like the fluff from Assistant to the Villain, and I love that sort of fluff.
It was a different read. It was what I alternated to when my other book was getting a bit dark. It was similar to giving my mind a break. I applaud the author for effort, and I’m glad I gave this a chance.
Ilyana is funny. She’s cute, and she wants to do better than in her previous life. The whole concept of a do over was fun. I think, because of the slight language barrier, there definitely could have been a more expansive background on the different countries, and how she ended up in the position she did. However, this story reminds me of like the fluff from Assistant to the Villain, and I love that sort of fluff.
It was a different read. It was what I alternated to when my other book was getting a bit dark. It was similar to giving my mind a break. I applaud the author for effort, and I’m glad I gave this a chance.
March 5, 2025
Villainess’s Redemption is a cute, quick read that perfectly scratches the itch for time-travel redemption stories, much like the many webcomics I’ve been devouring lately. While the writing could be a bit clunky at times and certain phrases felt repetitive, the heart of the story and its characters still shone through. The protagonist’s journey was engaging, and the blend of romance, drama, and second chances made for an enjoyable escape.
That said, the cliffhanger at the end should be illegal. I need the next book immediately—waiting feels like cruel and unusual punishment! If you’re a fan of the “rewind time to fix my tragic fate” trope, this book is a delightful addition to the genre, but fair warning: you’ll be desperate for the sequel.
That said, the cliffhanger at the end should be illegal. I need the next book immediately—waiting feels like cruel and unusual punishment! If you’re a fan of the “rewind time to fix my tragic fate” trope, this book is a delightful addition to the genre, but fair warning: you’ll be desperate for the sequel.
April 25, 2026
"Villainess's Redemption" had an intriguing premise, but unfortunately, the execution fell a bit short for me. While Vanessa Rhoswen's world-building showed promise, the story's pacing felt sluggish, making it difficult to fully immerse myself in the narrative.
The characters, though interesting in concept, lacked the depth needed to truly connect with them. I found myself struggling to maintain interest as the plot meandered, and the lack of momentum hindered my overall enjoyment of the book.
Ultimately, "Villainess's Redemption" earns a 3-star rating from me. While it has potential, the slow pace and difficulty staying engaged prevented it from reaching its full potential. Fans of the genre might still find something to appreciate, but be prepared for a more patient reading experience.
The characters, though interesting in concept, lacked the depth needed to truly connect with them. I found myself struggling to maintain interest as the plot meandered, and the lack of momentum hindered my overall enjoyment of the book.
Ultimately, "Villainess's Redemption" earns a 3-star rating from me. While it has potential, the slow pace and difficulty staying engaged prevented it from reaching its full potential. Fans of the genre might still find something to appreciate, but be prepared for a more patient reading experience.
February 3, 2025
ARC Review
Very very slow burn. Things really didn’t start to get interesting until about 75% of the way through.
World building was a bit bland, and the characters were also a bit bland. It did end on a decent cliff hanger, so I’m intrigued on how the next book will be, hoping for a faster burn.
I’m not even sure if the main character reached her goal or not. The plot was a bit inconsistent and there were a lot of holes I feel could have been filled in. It seems as if the book ended on a climax, and could have been at least a couple chapters longer, since there were so many plot holes. Overall a decent read. A few grammatical typos throughout the book.
Very very slow burn. Things really didn’t start to get interesting until about 75% of the way through.
World building was a bit bland, and the characters were also a bit bland. It did end on a decent cliff hanger, so I’m intrigued on how the next book will be, hoping for a faster burn.
I’m not even sure if the main character reached her goal or not. The plot was a bit inconsistent and there were a lot of holes I feel could have been filled in. It seems as if the book ended on a climax, and could have been at least a couple chapters longer, since there were so many plot holes. Overall a decent read. A few grammatical typos throughout the book.
February 7, 2025
This book had me kicking my feet and giggling. I absolutely love Ilyana, our main heroine and her trusted lady's maid Laurel.
It is an authors debut and keeping that in mind this book was so good! There were some grammar mistakes and it could've used another round of editing. Bypassing that the story itself is intriguing, the characters are likeable, the plot was plotting and the slow burn romance was sparking.
It ends on a major cliff hanger and I look forward to the next book in the series!
*ARC Review*
Thank you to the author for sharing and ARC copy with me in exchange for my honest review.
It is an authors debut and keeping that in mind this book was so good! There were some grammar mistakes and it could've used another round of editing. Bypassing that the story itself is intriguing, the characters are likeable, the plot was plotting and the slow burn romance was sparking.
It ends on a major cliff hanger and I look forward to the next book in the series!
*ARC Review*
Thank you to the author for sharing and ARC copy with me in exchange for my honest review.
February 15, 2025
I absolutely loved this story! I'm a huge fan of animes and this reminded me of a couple of my favorite ones and I was so hooked right from the beginning. There are definite areas for improving as far as the editing goes, but as this was an ARC, I'm sure those things will be corrected in the final edition.
Ilyana gets a second chance after making some serious mistakes. She's determined to make things right, but while doing so, things she knows are going to happen start happening at different times and she's first to adjust. In the mean time she finds herself falling her enemy and no longer loving the man she caused havoc for in the first place. So so so good!
Ilyana gets a second chance after making some serious mistakes. She's determined to make things right, but while doing so, things she knows are going to happen start happening at different times and she's first to adjust. In the mean time she finds herself falling her enemy and no longer loving the man she caused havoc for in the first place. So so so good!
March 1, 2025
Ends with a cliffhanger!
The book starts off with the main character, Ilyana, and her family in exile for her traitorous crimes. Luckily, Ilyana gets a second chance to change her fate.
I really enjoyed the mystery of what happened in the past and I liked watching it unfold with Ilyana’s knowledge of the future. My favorite parts were Ilyana’s inner thoughts when she was trying to undo her past schemes “Let the games begin. No! No games this time.”
This book has some slow burn romance, loyal friendships, and a female lead who is trying to better herself and save her family.
ARC in exchange for an honest review.
The book starts off with the main character, Ilyana, and her family in exile for her traitorous crimes. Luckily, Ilyana gets a second chance to change her fate.
I really enjoyed the mystery of what happened in the past and I liked watching it unfold with Ilyana’s knowledge of the future. My favorite parts were Ilyana’s inner thoughts when she was trying to undo her past schemes “Let the games begin. No! No games this time.”
This book has some slow burn romance, loyal friendships, and a female lead who is trying to better herself and save her family.
ARC in exchange for an honest review.
March 18, 2025
I want to give this a 4.5 star. The story starts out confusing from the missing details but it helps with the build up to the reveals throughout the plot later on in the book. The grammar was a little off but the author isn't a native English speaker, so just keep that in mind while reading. The FMC truly grows as a person in the book and you grow to love her and root for her happy ending. The book does end on a cliffhanger but the plot is so good that you will have enough answers to hold you over until the next book while still giving you enough questions that will have you sitting on your hands in excitement.
February 2, 2025
This was such a cute read. I absolutely loved the change of character from Ilyana and following her path. I loved her character. Also Anderic!!??? I love him. This book also had a humorous aspect that I thought made it so fun to read. The ending has me SO shocked! I couldn’t believe that was how everything ended. I can’t help but to want more! I’m giving 4.5 stars because some of the grammar was off, but our sweet author said that this is her first novel and she is not a native English speaker so I don’t think it’s quite fair to count off more than .5 for that ❤️
February 5, 2025
Villainess’s Redemption is about Ilyana getting the opportunity to change her fate after her and her father’s schemes. I really enjoyed this book. I loved Ilyana’s inner thoughts and witty banner between her and others. I loved that you didn’t get the whole picture and only got bits and pieces as the story goes on. I was on the edge of my seat through some of these scenes and devoured this book. I think this book could be a standalone or a series. Though I must admit I hoping for a series! Especially after that cliffhanger! Excellent work for this authors FIRST book. 💚
February 5, 2025
I was excited to get to read this as an arc reader and give my honest review. It didn’t take long to absorb this book. It’s definitely a SLOW BURN.
Spice level .5/5 so basically no spice. Which that’s ok too. This reminds me of a novel version of the manga “villainess is destined to die”. But much different. I have a bone to pick about the ending though…. Either there is going to be a book two or this ends so abrupt that I was almost yelling at the book like “noooo this can’t end like this!”
Overall good story line. Wish to see more story line with Eric and Ily.
Spice level .5/5 so basically no spice. Which that’s ok too. This reminds me of a novel version of the manga “villainess is destined to die”. But much different. I have a bone to pick about the ending though…. Either there is going to be a book two or this ends so abrupt that I was almost yelling at the book like “noooo this can’t end like this!”
Overall good story line. Wish to see more story line with Eric and Ily.
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