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A Wish So Deadly
"Legends are never forged without a little ruin..."
An epic, heart-racing fantasy romance, for fans of Powerless, about the battle to survive a deadly tournament to win the wish your heart most desires.
When Talia unwittingly steals cursed jewels from a powerful Soulreaper, she pays the ultimate price: the Soulreaper takes her sister's soul. Desperate to save her sister, Talia strikes a deal. She will enter a deadly, magical tournament and if she survives, she will claim the prize of a wish - the only payment the Soulreaper will accept in exchange for the return of her sister.
But the tournament can only be won in pairs. Talia is paired with Taron, the Soulreaper's brooding, mysterious protégé harbouring secrets of his own. They must find a way to work together if they are going to make it through the deadly trials alive. And as Talia's feelings for Taron grow, the stakes get even higher. She realises the ultimate price might just be her heart.
This is a heart-pounding YA romantasy about a girl who is willing to sacrifice everything to bring her sister back from the dead. Prepare for swoon like no other, with slow-burn #EnemiesToLovers tension throughout.
An epic, heart-racing fantasy romance, for fans of Powerless, about the battle to survive a deadly tournament to win the wish your heart most desires.
When Talia unwittingly steals cursed jewels from a powerful Soulreaper, she pays the ultimate price: the Soulreaper takes her sister's soul. Desperate to save her sister, Talia strikes a deal. She will enter a deadly, magical tournament and if she survives, she will claim the prize of a wish - the only payment the Soulreaper will accept in exchange for the return of her sister.
But the tournament can only be won in pairs. Talia is paired with Taron, the Soulreaper's brooding, mysterious protégé harbouring secrets of his own. They must find a way to work together if they are going to make it through the deadly trials alive. And as Talia's feelings for Taron grow, the stakes get even higher. She realises the ultimate price might just be her heart.
This is a heart-pounding YA romantasy about a girl who is willing to sacrifice everything to bring her sister back from the dead. Prepare for swoon like no other, with slow-burn #EnemiesToLovers tension throughout.
416 pages, Paperback
Published March 12, 2026
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 42 reviews
November 3, 2025
Hi everyone! I just wanted to say that knowing A Wish So Deadly is going to be out in the world is an absolute DREAM. This story has had my heart since the moment I started writing it, and I'm delighted to have found the perfect publishing home with Scholastic. I can't wait for readers to dive into this adventurous tale of love, determination and survival! ❤️
March 27, 2026
Hunger Games meets Red Queen - where 48 people enter the trials and only 2 can be victorious.
“Three deadly trials over three days. Twelve teams of two –twenty-four teams this year, to celebrate three hundred Stellar Years since the tournament’s establishment –contending against the island and its unpredictable obstacles. The grand prize is a single wish, granted by a star that fell from the sky centuries ago.”
This had such hunger games vibes - but far more violent! Talia is fighting in the trials for her sister’s life - the stakes are high, as if she fails she doesn’t get her sister ‘back’ and she will be left alone. When you add in various deadly trials and the fact she’s fighting against highly trained elites (like the careers) - you can really see the parallels. It does, however, hold weight on its own - as brings forth its own unique plot, adding in magic systems and darker undertones. This makes for a fresh and immersive story that keeps your attention.
I really like the idea of the magic factions in this - how everyone has a different ‘power’. I liked how the contestants thought outside the box in using their magic within the games.
One of my favourite aspects of this was the romance sub-plot! The tensions between Talia and Taron were high. There’s so many secrets between them and forces keeping them apart. I liked how they gradually opened up to each other. They each have emotional ‘baggage’ - her guilt and fear of being alone and his ties to Madame Vera.
This also has such interesting side characters - I’m talking about Cyrus - who added more dimensions to the plot and made the trials more interesting.
I cannot wait for the sequel, especially after THAT ending! If you’re a fan of similar books - such as the Hunger Games & Red Queen - this is one I’d recommend.
ARC copy provided by Scholastic UK & NetGalley in exchange for an honest review
“Three deadly trials over three days. Twelve teams of two –twenty-four teams this year, to celebrate three hundred Stellar Years since the tournament’s establishment –contending against the island and its unpredictable obstacles. The grand prize is a single wish, granted by a star that fell from the sky centuries ago.”
This had such hunger games vibes - but far more violent! Talia is fighting in the trials for her sister’s life - the stakes are high, as if she fails she doesn’t get her sister ‘back’ and she will be left alone. When you add in various deadly trials and the fact she’s fighting against highly trained elites (like the careers) - you can really see the parallels. It does, however, hold weight on its own - as brings forth its own unique plot, adding in magic systems and darker undertones. This makes for a fresh and immersive story that keeps your attention.
I really like the idea of the magic factions in this - how everyone has a different ‘power’. I liked how the contestants thought outside the box in using their magic within the games.
One of my favourite aspects of this was the romance sub-plot! The tensions between Talia and Taron were high. There’s so many secrets between them and forces keeping them apart. I liked how they gradually opened up to each other. They each have emotional ‘baggage’ - her guilt and fear of being alone and his ties to Madame Vera.
This also has such interesting side characters - I’m talking about Cyrus - who added more dimensions to the plot and made the trials more interesting.
I cannot wait for the sequel, especially after THAT ending! If you’re a fan of similar books - such as the Hunger Games & Red Queen - this is one I’d recommend.
ARC copy provided by Scholastic UK & NetGalley in exchange for an honest review
April 6, 2026
4.5⭐️ Omgggg give me book 2 right NOW!!!!! I’m not gonna lie, I saw this book on tiktok and didn’t give it any thought when I bought it. I saw trials and romantasy and I was sold.
I love the world. Everything was so clear and easy to understand and flowy I guess? The plot was catchy, I love when a book starts kinda in the middle of something without any context and then builds up from there.
Basically we have Talia and her sister as a main focus. Both being Emos, meaning they have abilities to sense and shape emotions. While Elara, Talia’s sister, has an affinity for positive emotions, Talia is exactly the other way around. Long story short, on one of her jobs Talia encounters a Souleater that tricks her to enter this tournament, teamed up with Taron. He is broody, he is mysterious and he is powerful. Of course we love him. From here on the plot unfolds, with good plot twists and catchy banter.
One aspect I was missing throughout the book was Taron’s pov which is the sole reason I am not rating it 5 stars. I would have loved to see more of him considering a very big detail we find out at some point in the book. But as the epilogue is from his pov, I guess we could get that in the next book????🥹🫣
Cant wait to find out what happens next💖
I love the world. Everything was so clear and easy to understand and flowy I guess? The plot was catchy, I love when a book starts kinda in the middle of something without any context and then builds up from there.
Basically we have Talia and her sister as a main focus. Both being Emos, meaning they have abilities to sense and shape emotions. While Elara, Talia’s sister, has an affinity for positive emotions, Talia is exactly the other way around. Long story short, on one of her jobs Talia encounters a Souleater that tricks her to enter this tournament, teamed up with Taron. He is broody, he is mysterious and he is powerful. Of course we love him. From here on the plot unfolds, with good plot twists and catchy banter.
One aspect I was missing throughout the book was Taron’s pov which is the sole reason I am not rating it 5 stars. I would have loved to see more of him considering a very big detail we find out at some point in the book. But as the epilogue is from his pov, I guess we could get that in the next book????🥹🫣
Cant wait to find out what happens next💖
January 15, 2026
Thank you to the publishers and netgalley for approving me to read this book, I’m rating it 4.25 stars.
This had me hooked! This book is quite fast paced I felt like it reminded me of fourth wing with how punchy it is like it just keeps coming while you try to catch your breath, but I liked it.
The magic system is unique, I’m not quite sure on the names for the magic, Emo threw me off a fair bit. The story absolutely strikes you in the feels early on with family at stake, it leads our FMC on a quest that’s beyond dangerous and her ally is not to be trusted or desired.
I will also say that the quest/tournament has a very hunger games feel to it so if you enjoy that world then this should be right up your street. I’m intrigued to see what happens next after that epilogue as things are about to get intense and I can’t wait.
This had me hooked! This book is quite fast paced I felt like it reminded me of fourth wing with how punchy it is like it just keeps coming while you try to catch your breath, but I liked it.
The magic system is unique, I’m not quite sure on the names for the magic, Emo threw me off a fair bit. The story absolutely strikes you in the feels early on with family at stake, it leads our FMC on a quest that’s beyond dangerous and her ally is not to be trusted or desired.
I will also say that the quest/tournament has a very hunger games feel to it so if you enjoy that world then this should be right up your street. I’m intrigued to see what happens next after that epilogue as things are about to get intense and I can’t wait.
April 13, 2026
I’m not sure what I thought of this… it was a good story but I feel the writing should have grabbed you more than it did.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
4.5 stars
Thanks to NetGalley and Scholastic for the advanced copy of this title in return for an honest review.
The world building in this book is very impressive. Marilize has done a wonderful job at immersing the reader in this world. Everything is described with such precision and detail that you can practically walk amongst the words on the page.
I loved her exploration of all the different types of magic and powers, I found that very interesting. Although I did find, at times, it was a little confusing, just because there's so many types and different names.
The dialogue is a little clunky. I know it's a fantasy novel and so it doesn't necessarily need to be realistic but at ties I felt it was obvious I was reading a book. But it didn't affect the enjoyment of the story.
There are similarities to a lot of well-loved fantasy novels such as Harry Potter, The Hunger Games, and Fourth Wing. But it is completely it's own thing, but if you enjoyed them then you'll enjoy this.
It's fast paced and punchy and full-on from start to finish.
She has balanced giving the reader an exciting and interesting plot, but has also given us deep, complex characters - good and bad - that we want to support through the journey.
It is your classical enemies-to-lovers romantasy (that's not a spoiler, it literally says about their feelings in the above synopsis) which was fun to read. Talia is an interesting protagonist. She's had to grow up quicky, looking after her sister, working, and trying to keep a roof over their heads. She is very family oriented and will do anything to protect her sister. Which leads her to pairing up with the mysterious Taron who is grumpy and quiet, but also protective and powerful.
Yes it's a fantasy, romantasy novel. It's fun and magical. But at the heart it is about love and community, family and what lengths you would go to to protect the ones you love.
Is it anything new? Not really, but I don't care. It gave me everything I wanted from a new romantasy story and I loved it.
Some fantasy novels can be bogged down in detail and make it hard to lose yourself in. And at over 400 pages, this is probably verging on the above-average page length, but it's so exciting and well written that the page count just zips by and, if you're like me, you'll look down and find you're already half way through.
I read it in a matter of hours, it was so addictive. I'm so glad there's a sequel already confirmed and I wonder if it will develop into a full series.
Thanks to NetGalley and Scholastic for the advanced copy of this title in return for an honest review.
The world building in this book is very impressive. Marilize has done a wonderful job at immersing the reader in this world. Everything is described with such precision and detail that you can practically walk amongst the words on the page.
I loved her exploration of all the different types of magic and powers, I found that very interesting. Although I did find, at times, it was a little confusing, just because there's so many types and different names.
The dialogue is a little clunky. I know it's a fantasy novel and so it doesn't necessarily need to be realistic but at ties I felt it was obvious I was reading a book. But it didn't affect the enjoyment of the story.
There are similarities to a lot of well-loved fantasy novels such as Harry Potter, The Hunger Games, and Fourth Wing. But it is completely it's own thing, but if you enjoyed them then you'll enjoy this.
It's fast paced and punchy and full-on from start to finish.
She has balanced giving the reader an exciting and interesting plot, but has also given us deep, complex characters - good and bad - that we want to support through the journey.
It is your classical enemies-to-lovers romantasy (that's not a spoiler, it literally says about their feelings in the above synopsis) which was fun to read. Talia is an interesting protagonist. She's had to grow up quicky, looking after her sister, working, and trying to keep a roof over their heads. She is very family oriented and will do anything to protect her sister. Which leads her to pairing up with the mysterious Taron who is grumpy and quiet, but also protective and powerful.
Yes it's a fantasy, romantasy novel. It's fun and magical. But at the heart it is about love and community, family and what lengths you would go to to protect the ones you love.
Is it anything new? Not really, but I don't care. It gave me everything I wanted from a new romantasy story and I loved it.
Some fantasy novels can be bogged down in detail and make it hard to lose yourself in. And at over 400 pages, this is probably verging on the above-average page length, but it's so exciting and well written that the page count just zips by and, if you're like me, you'll look down and find you're already half way through.
I read it in a matter of hours, it was so addictive. I'm so glad there's a sequel already confirmed and I wonder if it will develop into a full series.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
I received a review copy from the publisher in preparation for an upcoming UKYASpotlight interview. It has not affected my opinions.
A WISH SO DEADLY is a magical competition narrative that starts a romantasy series.
Magical competitions are nothing new in fiction but I liked how this one felt like a TV game show (the fantasy-set ones with story lines, like Raven, rather than challenge-only ones like Total Wipeout). There are teams and stages and uniforms to show which side you're on. Then there are the Games Master's Posts that report on what's happening for the public, very much like a commentator.
These stages were action packed sequences that read really smoothly - my reading pace certainly increased once the competition started. The monsters involved brought the most tension in and let the cast show off their different magics in cool ways.
With a large competition comes the chance for a large cast, but this book takes a restrained approach and focuses in on a few key competitors to allow the reader a better chance to get to know them. I liked the variety of the cast, from the spoilt prince (who was so much fun to dislike and I hope returns in the next book), to the confident and deadly girlfriends.
I liked that the romance doesn't go very far in this book. This is the first book in a series so by not having them get together here the relationship can be paced out over the series without requiring them to dramatically fall out at the end of the book to ensure there's tension in the next. Plus, this book takes place over a short period of time so having them starting to feel attraction but not get together felt more realistic to me. I like characters having time to fall in love.
There is another book to come, which will see Talia try to put right the mistakes she made. I would like it to have a competition-like element in it, given that is so key to this book for continuity (like how the was a HUNGER GAMES set up in MOCKING JAY to continue that idea across the books). I somewhat suspect that won't happen and it will be more of a battle/quest style narrative.
A WISH SO DEADLY is a magical competition narrative that starts a romantasy series.
Magical competitions are nothing new in fiction but I liked how this one felt like a TV game show (the fantasy-set ones with story lines, like Raven, rather than challenge-only ones like Total Wipeout). There are teams and stages and uniforms to show which side you're on. Then there are the Games Master's Posts that report on what's happening for the public, very much like a commentator.
These stages were action packed sequences that read really smoothly - my reading pace certainly increased once the competition started. The monsters involved brought the most tension in and let the cast show off their different magics in cool ways.
With a large competition comes the chance for a large cast, but this book takes a restrained approach and focuses in on a few key competitors to allow the reader a better chance to get to know them. I liked the variety of the cast, from the spoilt prince (who was so much fun to dislike and I hope returns in the next book), to the confident and deadly girlfriends.
I liked that the romance doesn't go very far in this book. This is the first book in a series so by not having them get together here the relationship can be paced out over the series without requiring them to dramatically fall out at the end of the book to ensure there's tension in the next. Plus, this book takes place over a short period of time so having them starting to feel attraction but not get together felt more realistic to me. I like characters having time to fall in love.
There is another book to come, which will see Talia try to put right the mistakes she made. I would like it to have a competition-like element in it, given that is so key to this book for continuity (like how the was a HUNGER GAMES set up in MOCKING JAY to continue that idea across the books). I somewhat suspect that won't happen and it will be more of a battle/quest style narrative.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
4.5 ⭐️
A Wish So Deadly completely pulled me into its world from the very first chapter. The story follows Talia, a thief who accidentally steals cursed jewels from a Soulreaper and loses the one person she loves most, her sister. The only way to get her back is to survive a brutal magical tournament and win the prize for the Soulreaper, a wish. The catch? She has to compete in pairs and her partner is Taron, the Soulreaper’s mysterious and handsome protégé.
One of my favourite things about this book was the world building and magic system. The magic system felt new and unlike anything I’d ever read before. Especially Talia’s ability to sense and manipulate emotions. Watching her learn the limits of that power while fighting to compete and stay in the competition to save her sister made the stakes really high.
Talia herself was a fantastic FMC. She’s resourceful, stubborn, and fiercely protective of the people she loves. Her determination to survive the tournament for her sister gave the story a strong centre, and I loved seeing how far she was willing to go to protect her family.
We of course can’t forget Taron our MMC. Broody, soooo secretive, and exactly the kind of morally complicated character I can’t resist. His connection to the Soulreaper and the hints about his past made him incredibly intriguing. The enemies to lovers dynamic between him and Talia is packed with tension, quiet moments, and so much yearning.
The tournament setting will make A Wish So Deadly perfect for fans of the hunger games and powerless. Overall, this was such an addictive YA romantasy with high stakes, a compelling magic system, and a slow-burn enemies-to-lovers relationship that had me hooked. The ending especially left me desperate for more, and I’m already impatient for the sequel.
If you love deadly tournaments, morally grey characters, emotional magic systems, and broody love interests, this one is absolutely worth picking up!!
Thank you to NetGalley and Scholastic for the opportunity to read this eARC.
A Wish So Deadly completely pulled me into its world from the very first chapter. The story follows Talia, a thief who accidentally steals cursed jewels from a Soulreaper and loses the one person she loves most, her sister. The only way to get her back is to survive a brutal magical tournament and win the prize for the Soulreaper, a wish. The catch? She has to compete in pairs and her partner is Taron, the Soulreaper’s mysterious and handsome protégé.
One of my favourite things about this book was the world building and magic system. The magic system felt new and unlike anything I’d ever read before. Especially Talia’s ability to sense and manipulate emotions. Watching her learn the limits of that power while fighting to compete and stay in the competition to save her sister made the stakes really high.
Talia herself was a fantastic FMC. She’s resourceful, stubborn, and fiercely protective of the people she loves. Her determination to survive the tournament for her sister gave the story a strong centre, and I loved seeing how far she was willing to go to protect her family.
We of course can’t forget Taron our MMC. Broody, soooo secretive, and exactly the kind of morally complicated character I can’t resist. His connection to the Soulreaper and the hints about his past made him incredibly intriguing. The enemies to lovers dynamic between him and Talia is packed with tension, quiet moments, and so much yearning.
The tournament setting will make A Wish So Deadly perfect for fans of the hunger games and powerless. Overall, this was such an addictive YA romantasy with high stakes, a compelling magic system, and a slow-burn enemies-to-lovers relationship that had me hooked. The ending especially left me desperate for more, and I’m already impatient for the sequel.
If you love deadly tournaments, morally grey characters, emotional magic systems, and broody love interests, this one is absolutely worth picking up!!
Thank you to NetGalley and Scholastic for the opportunity to read this eARC.
May 8, 2026
⭐️⭐️⭐️.25
A fantasy filled with trials & tension 🗡️
I was sucked into A Wish So Deadly almost immediately. It gave me vibes of The Hunger Games mixed with Caraval with those dark fairytale moments that reminded me of The Cruel Prince. The world felt whimsical and magical but also dangerous at the same time and I flew through it because everything was so easy to understand while still having an interesting magic system.
The actual storyline was SO addictive. Watching Talia navigate deadly trials for her sisters freedom, secrets, shifting loyalties and impossible choices kept me completely invested! The trials themselves were really intense and had me fully on the edge of my seat wondering what would happen next and who could actually survive. I do wish some of them had been a little longer though because parts of them felt rushed considering how high the stakes were supposed to be and I wanted a bit more urgency at times. I also would’ve loved even more world building because the foundations are SO good and I can already see how much bigger this world could become in future books.
Talia was such an emotional character to follow because every decision she made felt impossible. The way she constantly chose her sister no matter what genuinely hurt my heart because you could feel how torn she was between doing what was right and protecting the person she loved most. There was so much desperation in her choices and I felt every bit of it with her throughout the book I really couldn’t pull myself to judge her.
And then there’s Taron… 🫠 we all love a closed off brooding MMC. He’s mysterious, guarded and gives away absolutely nothing. Every interaction between him and Talia had me wanting more because there’s clearly so much going on underneath the surface. I honestly wish we got even more moments between them because the tension and potential between them was SO good it just felt very sparse for how intense their relationship became.
I can’t not write about how Cyrus kept me intrigued, I genuinely could not figure him out. One minute I didn’t trust him at all and the next I was questioning everything. I’m excited to see how his future story unfolds…
Overall this was such a good fantasy and despite a few things I wanted more from, I still had such a fun time reading it. I’m already thinking about picking up the next book because I NEED answers. 🤭✨
A fantasy filled with trials & tension 🗡️
I was sucked into A Wish So Deadly almost immediately. It gave me vibes of The Hunger Games mixed with Caraval with those dark fairytale moments that reminded me of The Cruel Prince. The world felt whimsical and magical but also dangerous at the same time and I flew through it because everything was so easy to understand while still having an interesting magic system.
The actual storyline was SO addictive. Watching Talia navigate deadly trials for her sisters freedom, secrets, shifting loyalties and impossible choices kept me completely invested! The trials themselves were really intense and had me fully on the edge of my seat wondering what would happen next and who could actually survive. I do wish some of them had been a little longer though because parts of them felt rushed considering how high the stakes were supposed to be and I wanted a bit more urgency at times. I also would’ve loved even more world building because the foundations are SO good and I can already see how much bigger this world could become in future books.
Talia was such an emotional character to follow because every decision she made felt impossible. The way she constantly chose her sister no matter what genuinely hurt my heart because you could feel how torn she was between doing what was right and protecting the person she loved most. There was so much desperation in her choices and I felt every bit of it with her throughout the book I really couldn’t pull myself to judge her.
And then there’s Taron… 🫠 we all love a closed off brooding MMC. He’s mysterious, guarded and gives away absolutely nothing. Every interaction between him and Talia had me wanting more because there’s clearly so much going on underneath the surface. I honestly wish we got even more moments between them because the tension and potential between them was SO good it just felt very sparse for how intense their relationship became.
I can’t not write about how Cyrus kept me intrigued, I genuinely could not figure him out. One minute I didn’t trust him at all and the next I was questioning everything. I’m excited to see how his future story unfolds…
Overall this was such a good fantasy and despite a few things I wanted more from, I still had such a fun time reading it. I’m already thinking about picking up the next book because I NEED answers. 🤭✨
March 15, 2026
Thank you to Instabook Tour and Scholastic for sending me a finished copy to read and review.
Unfortunately this was a DNF for me. I liked the premise but the world and the characters weren’t fleshed out enough for me to give it enough depth. Totally understand that it’s a YA but with deadly trials and romance I would have expected it to read like upper YA and it doesn’t have the same prose and pull that other YA books I’ve liked have.
The magic system is poorly explained- there are elementals but then people who are essentially necromancers I guess like our main character who is an ‘emo’ (sorry millennial here can’t deal with that 🤣) as she can see/manipulate emotions, specifically soul wraiths who form due to traumatic deaths and she sort of, absorbs them? But then there are soul reapers? And when her sister’s soul is taken, she’s not like in stasis, she’s dead, but then this soul reaper can put it back even though it shouldn’t be possible, but she can? There were holes and things that just didn’t make sense to me. But mostly I just thought the characters weren’t very well written in that I didn’t care about any of them. Their motivations and actions didn’t make sense? The main character essentially steals what she thinks are powerful rings and necroseals (again not really well explained), she knows she shouldn’t but she does it anyway, and whilst her and her sister don’t have the best life, they have a roof over their heads and they have jobs, so it just didn’t make sense to me as to why she would risk it? Taron’s answer for every plot hole question she asks is ‘Madame Vera will sort it.’ Which is a bit of a cop out for me and then she sorts everything BUT they don’t have anywhere to stay on the first night of the tournament and so they have to work and earn a room?!
I know a lot of people on the tour loved it so I’m sure it will be a good read for many but this one wasn’t for me I’m afraid.
Unfortunately this was a DNF for me. I liked the premise but the world and the characters weren’t fleshed out enough for me to give it enough depth. Totally understand that it’s a YA but with deadly trials and romance I would have expected it to read like upper YA and it doesn’t have the same prose and pull that other YA books I’ve liked have.
The magic system is poorly explained- there are elementals but then people who are essentially necromancers I guess like our main character who is an ‘emo’ (sorry millennial here can’t deal with that 🤣) as she can see/manipulate emotions, specifically soul wraiths who form due to traumatic deaths and she sort of, absorbs them? But then there are soul reapers? And when her sister’s soul is taken, she’s not like in stasis, she’s dead, but then this soul reaper can put it back even though it shouldn’t be possible, but she can? There were holes and things that just didn’t make sense to me. But mostly I just thought the characters weren’t very well written in that I didn’t care about any of them. Their motivations and actions didn’t make sense? The main character essentially steals what she thinks are powerful rings and necroseals (again not really well explained), she knows she shouldn’t but she does it anyway, and whilst her and her sister don’t have the best life, they have a roof over their heads and they have jobs, so it just didn’t make sense to me as to why she would risk it? Taron’s answer for every plot hole question she asks is ‘Madame Vera will sort it.’ Which is a bit of a cop out for me and then she sorts everything BUT they don’t have anywhere to stay on the first night of the tournament and so they have to work and earn a room?!
I know a lot of people on the tour loved it so I’m sure it will be a good read for many but this one wasn’t for me I’m afraid.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 5, 2026
If you had one wish what would you wish for?
About the Book 📖
A Wish So Deadly by Marlize Loxton follows Talia Sereneth as she cares for her sister Elara, having scraped by since the tragic passing of their parents. Elara dreams of owning a bakery and Talia will do anything to make it happen. So after taking a job ridding an old cottage of a Soul Wraith, the remains of a person's soul after they’ve died, Talia sees her chance to pocket three valuable rings to sell at the market.
But the rings have an owner and they want them back. When the men who bought two of the rings are found dead Talia realises her mistake and races home to retrieve the third ring from her sister. But she arrives too late and instead goes in search of the woman responsible who offers her a deal compete in the deadly Reckoning and win the wish granted and in exchange her sister will be resurrected and returned to her.
Talia can use people's negative emotions against them and is paired with Taron, a brooding man with the power to manipulate gravity. Together, they should make a formidable duo, and they must put aside their issues to work towards their goal.
My Thoughts 💭
This book is a classic mix of YA tropes all set against a very Hunger Games-esque tournament. Talia and Taron are both young people haunted by their pasts, thrown together against their will and forced to do the bidding of someone much more powerful than they are.
The magic system is so interesting, as each character wields something different. Whilst most seem to have elemental magic, Talia relies on people's anger, fear, and sadness. She uses their emotions as a weapon but still feels regret and guilt at harming others, and I loved her growth at the end of the book.
Just a warning this book ends on a cliffhanger so be prepared for things to be left unresolved and wait for book 2!
About the Book 📖
A Wish So Deadly by Marlize Loxton follows Talia Sereneth as she cares for her sister Elara, having scraped by since the tragic passing of their parents. Elara dreams of owning a bakery and Talia will do anything to make it happen. So after taking a job ridding an old cottage of a Soul Wraith, the remains of a person's soul after they’ve died, Talia sees her chance to pocket three valuable rings to sell at the market.
But the rings have an owner and they want them back. When the men who bought two of the rings are found dead Talia realises her mistake and races home to retrieve the third ring from her sister. But she arrives too late and instead goes in search of the woman responsible who offers her a deal compete in the deadly Reckoning and win the wish granted and in exchange her sister will be resurrected and returned to her.
Talia can use people's negative emotions against them and is paired with Taron, a brooding man with the power to manipulate gravity. Together, they should make a formidable duo, and they must put aside their issues to work towards their goal.
My Thoughts 💭
This book is a classic mix of YA tropes all set against a very Hunger Games-esque tournament. Talia and Taron are both young people haunted by their pasts, thrown together against their will and forced to do the bidding of someone much more powerful than they are.
The magic system is so interesting, as each character wields something different. Whilst most seem to have elemental magic, Talia relies on people's anger, fear, and sadness. She uses their emotions as a weapon but still feels regret and guilt at harming others, and I loved her growth at the end of the book.
Just a warning this book ends on a cliffhanger so be prepared for things to be left unresolved and wait for book 2!
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
4.5 Stars
Lightlark meets Little Thieves in this gorgeously magical, high stakes YA Fantasy; that’s bursting with yearning, elemental magic and an enemies to lovers dynamic that had me swooning the whole way through.
I genuinely loved how magical and enticing the worldbuilding was and adored our compelling (opportunistic thief) FMC Talia. Who, after stealing from a powerful Soulreaper, must enter a high stakes tournament to save her sister.
Her morally grey resourcefulness and Katniss-like determination to protect her sister was beyond heartfelt. I especially liked exploring the boundaries of her unique abilities (of sensing and manipulating negative emotions) and the darker aspects (including her own grief) that makes her power so complex and interesting.
Though, I did love Taron as well and found him just as intriguing. Protégé to the dangerous Soulreaper (Vera), Talia reluctantly joins forces with him to win the tournament. And I must say, if you like a strong silent type (who battles the secrets and tragedies of their past) then chances are you’re gonna really love him too!
The romance wasn’t as in-depth as I would’ve like, but the yearning and emotional build up (in the midst of an intensely pacy and deadly competition) was still pretty amazing. And kept me on the edge of my seat, with all those fabulous twists (and an ending that may just become my villain origin story, if I can’t get my hands on the sequel soon.)
Overall, an engaging and unputdownable debut exploring love, sacrifice and the lengths some will go to save the people they love. I’m honestly soo excited for whatever Marilize Loxton writes next.
Also, a huge thank you to Instabooktours & Scholastic for the PB copy (and spot on the tour.)
Lightlark meets Little Thieves in this gorgeously magical, high stakes YA Fantasy; that’s bursting with yearning, elemental magic and an enemies to lovers dynamic that had me swooning the whole way through.
I genuinely loved how magical and enticing the worldbuilding was and adored our compelling (opportunistic thief) FMC Talia. Who, after stealing from a powerful Soulreaper, must enter a high stakes tournament to save her sister.
Her morally grey resourcefulness and Katniss-like determination to protect her sister was beyond heartfelt. I especially liked exploring the boundaries of her unique abilities (of sensing and manipulating negative emotions) and the darker aspects (including her own grief) that makes her power so complex and interesting.
Though, I did love Taron as well and found him just as intriguing. Protégé to the dangerous Soulreaper (Vera), Talia reluctantly joins forces with him to win the tournament. And I must say, if you like a strong silent type (who battles the secrets and tragedies of their past) then chances are you’re gonna really love him too!
The romance wasn’t as in-depth as I would’ve like, but the yearning and emotional build up (in the midst of an intensely pacy and deadly competition) was still pretty amazing. And kept me on the edge of my seat, with all those fabulous twists (and an ending that may just become my villain origin story, if I can’t get my hands on the sequel soon.)
Overall, an engaging and unputdownable debut exploring love, sacrifice and the lengths some will go to save the people they love. I’m honestly soo excited for whatever Marilize Loxton writes next.
Also, a huge thank you to Instabooktours & Scholastic for the PB copy (and spot on the tour.)
March 31, 2026
A Wish So Deadly is a high stakes, action filled YA Fantasy with some dystopian vibes mixed in too. The story follows Talia, as she makes a deal with a Soulreaper after her sister’s soul is taken. As part of the deal, Talia must enter into a deadly, magical tournament in order to get the coveted prize of a wish - the only payment the Soulreaper will accept for her sister’s soul.
From the opening scene, I found immediately the story to be fast paced and intriguing. The magic system is an elemental one, however it is made unique with the inclusions ‘soulreaping’ and ‘emotergy’ as elements. With Talia (FMC), being an ‘emotergy’ elemental, the reader gets to pick up on the emotions of others as she does, as well as experiencing creatures such as ‘soul wraiths’ which adds some spookiness to the story. The world building was immersive but manageable, with the world’s history, magic and locations easy to understand and follow.
The plot is focused on the FMC, Talia, as muddles through gut wrenching decisions in order to save her sister. As a reader, I felt Talia’s heart ache and questioning of her moral compass in order to fight for what she wants. She is a determined FMC who is driven by loyalty and the need to protect. The romance subplot between her and the MMC is that of a slow burn and is more prominent later in the book, however I feel this has been intentional to set up for more development in Book 2.
A Wish So Deadly is the perfect read for YA trial lovers, who enjoy a fast paced book and slow burning romance. The book’s ending sets up perfectly to lead into Book 2.
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for the e-ARC. All opinions are my own.
From the opening scene, I found immediately the story to be fast paced and intriguing. The magic system is an elemental one, however it is made unique with the inclusions ‘soulreaping’ and ‘emotergy’ as elements. With Talia (FMC), being an ‘emotergy’ elemental, the reader gets to pick up on the emotions of others as she does, as well as experiencing creatures such as ‘soul wraiths’ which adds some spookiness to the story. The world building was immersive but manageable, with the world’s history, magic and locations easy to understand and follow.
The plot is focused on the FMC, Talia, as muddles through gut wrenching decisions in order to save her sister. As a reader, I felt Talia’s heart ache and questioning of her moral compass in order to fight for what she wants. She is a determined FMC who is driven by loyalty and the need to protect. The romance subplot between her and the MMC is that of a slow burn and is more prominent later in the book, however I feel this has been intentional to set up for more development in Book 2.
A Wish So Deadly is the perfect read for YA trial lovers, who enjoy a fast paced book and slow burning romance. The book’s ending sets up perfectly to lead into Book 2.
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for the e-ARC. All opinions are my own.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Thank you to the author and publisher for an early copy of this book!!
I have been keeping my eyes on this book since it was announced. I loveeee a book with trials, enemies to lovers, and elemental magic so I just knew this would be a good read for me!
I really loved the author’s descriptions of the different scenes; they were in-depth and easy to picture without being too complex. There was a really good mix of plot and character development throughout the book. I really enjoyed the levels of angst and I liked the dynamic of the relationship. I do wish there was more romance building as it did go a bit quick but it was so thrilling when it hit its peak! I absolutely loved the trials and it reminded me of Divergent and The Hunter Games but it was also completely unique. I enjoyed the little ‘hints’ about the trials before we found what they were, and I found the back story of Madame Vera super interesting! I would’ve liked a bit more about that, and for the book in general to be longer, but it was also nice to have a quick and easy book to read which is good for me cause I have a low attention span! It was a hugely enjoyable YA novel and I would absolutely read anything else from this author as I think she’s fab!
Trials, angst and enemies to lovers, what more could anyone want? A stunning YA fantasy book bursting with plot twists and heartache. Marilize has blessed us with this book and her mind is incredible. If you love Powerless and The Hunger Games, you’ll *love* this book!!
Rating: 4/5 stars (⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️)
I have been keeping my eyes on this book since it was announced. I loveeee a book with trials, enemies to lovers, and elemental magic so I just knew this would be a good read for me!
I really loved the author’s descriptions of the different scenes; they were in-depth and easy to picture without being too complex. There was a really good mix of plot and character development throughout the book. I really enjoyed the levels of angst and I liked the dynamic of the relationship. I do wish there was more romance building as it did go a bit quick but it was so thrilling when it hit its peak! I absolutely loved the trials and it reminded me of Divergent and The Hunter Games but it was also completely unique. I enjoyed the little ‘hints’ about the trials before we found what they were, and I found the back story of Madame Vera super interesting! I would’ve liked a bit more about that, and for the book in general to be longer, but it was also nice to have a quick and easy book to read which is good for me cause I have a low attention span! It was a hugely enjoyable YA novel and I would absolutely read anything else from this author as I think she’s fab!
Trials, angst and enemies to lovers, what more could anyone want? A stunning YA fantasy book bursting with plot twists and heartache. Marilize has blessed us with this book and her mind is incredible. If you love Powerless and The Hunger Games, you’ll *love* this book!!
Rating: 4/5 stars (⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️)
Review of advance copy
A Wish So Deadly – Marilize Loxton
✨Deadly Tournament
✨Competition for a Wish
✨Save the Sibling
✨Deal with a Supernatural Being
✨Magic with Consequences
✨High Stakes Survival
✨Cursed Object (Cursed Jewels)
✨Forced Proximity
✨Reluctant Allies to Lovers
✨Brooding / Mysterious Love
Let me start with, this book was absolutely amazing I throughly enjoyed it!
A Wish So Deadly by Marilize Loxton is such a gripping YA fantasy that completely pulls you in. The story follows Talia, who ends up in a nightmare situation after stealing cursed jewels and losing her sister’s soul as a result. The only way to fix it? Compete in a deadly magical tournament where the winner earns a single wish. No pressure right?
What I really liked about this book is how emotional it feels. Talia isn’t fighting for glory or revenge she’s fighting for her sister, and that makes every challenge hit harder. The tournament setting adds constant tension because you never feel like anyone is safe. Every task feels dangerous, and the stakes stay high the whole time.
There’s also a slowburn romance that adds just the right amount of tension without taking over the plot. The chemistry builds naturally, especially with the forced partnership element, and it makes the dangerous moments even more intense.
Overall, it’s a fastpaced, dramatic fantasy with heart. If you like magical competitions, strong female leads, and a bit of enemies-to-allies romance, this one is definitely worth picking up.
✨Deadly Tournament
✨Competition for a Wish
✨Save the Sibling
✨Deal with a Supernatural Being
✨Magic with Consequences
✨High Stakes Survival
✨Cursed Object (Cursed Jewels)
✨Forced Proximity
✨Reluctant Allies to Lovers
✨Brooding / Mysterious Love
Let me start with, this book was absolutely amazing I throughly enjoyed it!
A Wish So Deadly by Marilize Loxton is such a gripping YA fantasy that completely pulls you in. The story follows Talia, who ends up in a nightmare situation after stealing cursed jewels and losing her sister’s soul as a result. The only way to fix it? Compete in a deadly magical tournament where the winner earns a single wish. No pressure right?
What I really liked about this book is how emotional it feels. Talia isn’t fighting for glory or revenge she’s fighting for her sister, and that makes every challenge hit harder. The tournament setting adds constant tension because you never feel like anyone is safe. Every task feels dangerous, and the stakes stay high the whole time.
There’s also a slowburn romance that adds just the right amount of tension without taking over the plot. The chemistry builds naturally, especially with the forced partnership element, and it makes the dangerous moments even more intense.
Overall, it’s a fastpaced, dramatic fantasy with heart. If you like magical competitions, strong female leads, and a bit of enemies-to-allies romance, this one is definitely worth picking up.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
This is such a solid debut and I enjoyed every single page of it. If you are a fan of the genre and the blurb got you intrigued, you will not be disappointed. Marilize says, this book is for you if you like:
- Deadly tournaments
- High-stakes magic
- Rivals forced into uneasy alliances
- A boy without a soul
- Betrayal that leaves scars
- Forced proximity romance
- An island riddled with beasts
- Magical monsters
and I couldn't agree more!
I think that for a debut the worldbuilding/ premise and magic system worked really well. You get a bit of Hunger Games but with a fresh spin to it. And, let's be honest, not every book I pick up, do I expect it to be the most original thing I've ever read. There are other themes here which take over and a great character arc for Talia, I was emotionally invested and fully immersed for the days I was reading this, the writing is SO GOOD! Her love for her sister, Elara, absolutely shines through!
In a nutshell, the story is interesting, the whole tournament/competition vibe is very well executed, the choices are impossible, the characters are deliciously flawed, the twists are twisting and the turns are turning, we have high stakes, action packed fast pace, it's a jolly good time!
Thank you to Marilize Loxton, Scholastic UK and NetGalley for my review copy, all opinions are my own.
- Deadly tournaments
- High-stakes magic
- Rivals forced into uneasy alliances
- A boy without a soul
- Betrayal that leaves scars
- Forced proximity romance
- An island riddled with beasts
- Magical monsters
and I couldn't agree more!
I think that for a debut the worldbuilding/ premise and magic system worked really well. You get a bit of Hunger Games but with a fresh spin to it. And, let's be honest, not every book I pick up, do I expect it to be the most original thing I've ever read. There are other themes here which take over and a great character arc for Talia, I was emotionally invested and fully immersed for the days I was reading this, the writing is SO GOOD! Her love for her sister, Elara, absolutely shines through!
In a nutshell, the story is interesting, the whole tournament/competition vibe is very well executed, the choices are impossible, the characters are deliciously flawed, the twists are twisting and the turns are turning, we have high stakes, action packed fast pace, it's a jolly good time!
Thank you to Marilize Loxton, Scholastic UK and NetGalley for my review copy, all opinions are my own.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
4.5✨ Wow what a book 😍 After losing their parents at such a young age Talia being the oldest takes care of her younger sister, she’s steals anything she’s can find that is worth selling for a small price. After stealing jewellery from a cottage and giving them away a suspicious pattern has accord, 3 pieces of jewellery sold and given to 3 people that had turned into 3 deaths. One being her younger sister who soul has been taken by a Soulreaper. The same Soulreaper that killed her sister makes a deal that she’s can bring back her sister if she’s competes in the Reckoning trials, but competing in the Reckoning can only leave 3 possible outcomes: victory for the winner, and for the rest, death of something for worse.
Taron a mystery he’s grumpy, quite and don’t give much away when it comes to what agreement he has with the Soulreaper is to enter the trails along side Talia. Taron a Luna he can manipulate gravity, he’s also protective and willing to let a teenager go after he stole from him. Now Talia and Taron have to trust one another to win and compete the games to win a Wish for the Soulreaper.
The end has a plot twist I did not see coming at all!! 😱
Thank you NetGalley & Scholastic Uk for the arc 😍
Taron a mystery he’s grumpy, quite and don’t give much away when it comes to what agreement he has with the Soulreaper is to enter the trails along side Talia. Taron a Luna he can manipulate gravity, he’s also protective and willing to let a teenager go after he stole from him. Now Talia and Taron have to trust one another to win and compete the games to win a Wish for the Soulreaper.
The end has a plot twist I did not see coming at all!! 😱
Thank you NetGalley & Scholastic Uk for the arc 😍
Review of advance copy
Thank you to Instabookstours for the advance copy, this book releases on 12/03/2026.
I was so excited when I found I had been accepted for this tour, and the book did not disappoint. A deadly tournament, enemies to lovers and high stakes adventure? Yes please! As a YA book, there was no spice either, which was perfect for me.
To start, the world building is divine - I could smell the bakery, imagine the little house Talia lives in with her sister and get lost amongst the taverns and trees of the world Marilize has created. Talia is strong and dedicated to her cause, and she is willing to do whatever it takes to survive, even if this means theft.
Taron is a mystery right from when we first meet him, and I loved seeing him soften and open up - just slightly - as the book progressed. The stakes are high and the trust nonexistent, so I was so invested to see if they would make it through.
This book gave me hints of The Hunger Games, so if you loved that series you will love this too! I am anxiously awaiting the next book already because that ending leaves me with so many questions.
Well written and a fabulous read - thank you to Instabooktours for the advance copy and Marilize for writing such a great story.
I was so excited when I found I had been accepted for this tour, and the book did not disappoint. A deadly tournament, enemies to lovers and high stakes adventure? Yes please! As a YA book, there was no spice either, which was perfect for me.
To start, the world building is divine - I could smell the bakery, imagine the little house Talia lives in with her sister and get lost amongst the taverns and trees of the world Marilize has created. Talia is strong and dedicated to her cause, and she is willing to do whatever it takes to survive, even if this means theft.
Taron is a mystery right from when we first meet him, and I loved seeing him soften and open up - just slightly - as the book progressed. The stakes are high and the trust nonexistent, so I was so invested to see if they would make it through.
This book gave me hints of The Hunger Games, so if you loved that series you will love this too! I am anxiously awaiting the next book already because that ending leaves me with so many questions.
Well written and a fabulous read - thank you to Instabooktours for the advance copy and Marilize for writing such a great story.
March 13, 2026
✨𝑫𝒐 𝒏𝒐𝒕 𝒃𝒆 𝒇𝒐𝒐𝒍𝒆𝒅 𝒃𝒚 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒎𝒆𝒓𝒓𝒊𝒎𝒆𝒏𝒕 𝒕𝒉𝒂𝒕 𝒇𝒊𝒍𝒍𝒔 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒑𝒂𝒍𝒂𝒄𝒆 𝒉𝒂𝒍𝒍𝒔, 𝒅𝒆𝒂𝒓 𝒇𝒓𝒊𝒆𝒏𝒅𝒔, 𝒇𝒐𝒓 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒘𝒂𝒓𝒎𝒆𝒔𝒕 𝒔𝒎𝒊𝒍𝒆𝒔 𝒎𝒂𝒚 𝒔𝒐𝒐𝒏 𝒃𝒆 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒐𝒏𝒆𝒔 𝒕𝒉𝒂𝒕 𝒄𝒖𝒕 𝒅𝒆𝒆𝒑𝒆𝒔𝒕 ~ 𝖬𝖺𝗋𝗂𝗅𝗂𝗓𝖾 𝖫𝗈𝗑𝗍𝗈𝗇 • 𝖠 𝗐𝗂𝗌𝗁 𝗌𝗈 𝖽𝖾𝖺𝖽𝗅𝗒
🍷🃏
4.5 ★
𝘿𝙚𝙖𝙙𝙡𝙮 𝙩𝙤𝙪𝙧𝙣𝙖𝙢𝙚𝙣𝙩. 𝙀𝙡𝙚𝙢𝙚𝙣𝙩𝙖𝙡 𝙢𝙖𝙜𝙞𝙘. 𝙁𝙚𝙢𝙖𝙡𝙚 𝙧𝙖𝙜𝙚 𝙩𝙖𝙠𝙚𝙣 𝙩𝙤 𝙖 𝙬𝙝𝙤𝙡𝙚 𝙣𝙚𝙬 𝙡𝙚𝙫𝙚𝙡.
Easy to follow, with world-building that’s simple but really engaging. From start to finish, I was completely hooked. It’s deadly and gruesome, and the plot is brilliant.
The character arc is beautifully written: original, emotional, and captivating. 🌙
The ending has me pulling my hair out because I refuse to accept it ending this way. It’s torture. I need book two immediately! 😭
My favourite part of the book? The tournament! Wow. I loved it. I felt like my feet were ready to run alongside the players. When the gong sounds, my heart skips a beat from the excitement. Do I have issues?! 😂
Okay, the end is a bit predictable, but I loved it anyway. The tension felt a little lacking, though that might make it more suitable for younger readers. After all, it is written for a YA audience.📖
This is definitely my favorite YA of 2026 so far! ✨
Thank you @instabooktours @scholastic_uk for making me a part of this tour. Incredibly grateful.
🍷🃏
4.5 ★
𝘿𝙚𝙖𝙙𝙡𝙮 𝙩𝙤𝙪𝙧𝙣𝙖𝙢𝙚𝙣𝙩. 𝙀𝙡𝙚𝙢𝙚𝙣𝙩𝙖𝙡 𝙢𝙖𝙜𝙞𝙘. 𝙁𝙚𝙢𝙖𝙡𝙚 𝙧𝙖𝙜𝙚 𝙩𝙖𝙠𝙚𝙣 𝙩𝙤 𝙖 𝙬𝙝𝙤𝙡𝙚 𝙣𝙚𝙬 𝙡𝙚𝙫𝙚𝙡.
Easy to follow, with world-building that’s simple but really engaging. From start to finish, I was completely hooked. It’s deadly and gruesome, and the plot is brilliant.
The character arc is beautifully written: original, emotional, and captivating. 🌙
The ending has me pulling my hair out because I refuse to accept it ending this way. It’s torture. I need book two immediately! 😭
My favourite part of the book? The tournament! Wow. I loved it. I felt like my feet were ready to run alongside the players. When the gong sounds, my heart skips a beat from the excitement. Do I have issues?! 😂
Okay, the end is a bit predictable, but I loved it anyway. The tension felt a little lacking, though that might make it more suitable for younger readers. After all, it is written for a YA audience.📖
This is definitely my favorite YA of 2026 so far! ✨
Thank you @instabooktours @scholastic_uk for making me a part of this tour. Incredibly grateful.
March 18, 2026
💭 qotd what are your favourite survival game reads?
Gifted|PR Thank you @instabooktours @scholastic_uk and @marilizeauthor for my copy
Title: A Wish so Deadly
Author: Marilize Loxton @marilizeauthor
Pages: 416
UK publish date: available now
Published by: @scholastic_uk
⚠️ Protect yourself. Check any trigger warnings before reading.
Talia unwillingly signs up to a tournament after making a deal with a Soulreaper, to save her sister.
What a ride this was. The beautiful writing style created such a magical world building. I'm am absolute sucker for only one survivor tournaments and this didn't disappoint. I loved the slow burn between Talia and Taron. The little glances between Talia and the prince. It was just so good to read. The magic, the powers and the creatures were so well described. (I did feel sorry for them as well)
This was a brilliant part one to the series and I can't wait to read what happens next. The story was easy to read and a great introduction to romantasy for younger readers.
You'll like this if you enjoy books that include;
⚔️ To the death tournament
🛌 Only one bed
💖 Enemies to lovers
🔺️ Love triangle
📚 Start of a series
🌟 Young adult romantasy
Will you be adding this to your book shelf? Do you know someone who would love this?
Gifted|PR Thank you @instabooktours @scholastic_uk and @marilizeauthor for my copy
Title: A Wish so Deadly
Author: Marilize Loxton @marilizeauthor
Pages: 416
UK publish date: available now
Published by: @scholastic_uk
⚠️ Protect yourself. Check any trigger warnings before reading.
Talia unwillingly signs up to a tournament after making a deal with a Soulreaper, to save her sister.
What a ride this was. The beautiful writing style created such a magical world building. I'm am absolute sucker for only one survivor tournaments and this didn't disappoint. I loved the slow burn between Talia and Taron. The little glances between Talia and the prince. It was just so good to read. The magic, the powers and the creatures were so well described. (I did feel sorry for them as well)
This was a brilliant part one to the series and I can't wait to read what happens next. The story was easy to read and a great introduction to romantasy for younger readers.
You'll like this if you enjoy books that include;
⚔️ To the death tournament
🛌 Only one bed
💖 Enemies to lovers
🔺️ Love triangle
📚 Start of a series
🌟 Young adult romantasy
Will you be adding this to your book shelf? Do you know someone who would love this?
Review of advance copy
I’ve been thinking about this book even after the last page. From the first chapter, I was pulled straight into the story, and I couldn’t stop reading it. The way it handles a desperate action for money that was a fatal mistake, leading to a brutal three-stage deadly tournament, is just captivating.
Talia (FMC) is a half-Emo, and Taron (MMC) is a Lunar; this is such a fresh perspective for a magical world. They have a high-tension dynamic. Talia has the ability to sense negative emotions, and her sister Elara has the ability to sense positive emotions. In Talia’s case, everything she feels is so deep, and every moment of the Reckoning feels incredibly high stakes. Talia and Taron have an electric chemistry.
Then there is Cyrus, who looks like a narcissist, but you can see the lack of love and recognition from his family shaped his behaviour. I think there was a spark of interest towards Talia, which added a nice layer to the story.
The ending is saving on massive twists, and that caught me off guard. Cliffhanger? Yes, it left me wanting the next book like yesterday. Fast-paced and high stakes romantasy with surprises, a must-read.
Talia (FMC) is a half-Emo, and Taron (MMC) is a Lunar; this is such a fresh perspective for a magical world. They have a high-tension dynamic. Talia has the ability to sense negative emotions, and her sister Elara has the ability to sense positive emotions. In Talia’s case, everything she feels is so deep, and every moment of the Reckoning feels incredibly high stakes. Talia and Taron have an electric chemistry.
Then there is Cyrus, who looks like a narcissist, but you can see the lack of love and recognition from his family shaped his behaviour. I think there was a spark of interest towards Talia, which added a nice layer to the story.
The ending is saving on massive twists, and that caught me off guard. Cliffhanger? Yes, it left me wanting the next book like yesterday. Fast-paced and high stakes romantasy with surprises, a must-read.
Review of advance copy
✨️ Book Tour Stop ✨️
That's right beaches, it's my stop on the Tour!
*does awkward shimmy*
A Wish So Deadly by @marilizeauthor
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I would do ANYTHING for my sisters! ANYTHING! But I don't think I would survive a tournament to save their souls, even with a moody, reluctant MMC to help 🤣
I adore Talia and Taron, the TENSION (swoon)! I love seeing the little cracks of openness and vulnerability peeking through. I need, nay, I demand more...and soon ( I totally know this is a pointless statement as book 1 hasn't even been released yet 😭😭😭😭)
The world building was intense but worth it, I need to know this world so I can become one with it. I was on the edge of my seat...and that ending has left me wanting so much more
If you like deadly trials, if you like sisterly love, if you like a brooding and mysterious MMC. Please, I beg you, go pick this up!!
Thank you so much to @instabooktours and @scholastic_uk for the early copy *SO SHINY* 🤗 and for having me on the tour
That's right beaches, it's my stop on the Tour!
*does awkward shimmy*
A Wish So Deadly by @marilizeauthor
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I would do ANYTHING for my sisters! ANYTHING! But I don't think I would survive a tournament to save their souls, even with a moody, reluctant MMC to help 🤣
I adore Talia and Taron, the TENSION (swoon)! I love seeing the little cracks of openness and vulnerability peeking through. I need, nay, I demand more...and soon ( I totally know this is a pointless statement as book 1 hasn't even been released yet 😭😭😭😭)
The world building was intense but worth it, I need to know this world so I can become one with it. I was on the edge of my seat...and that ending has left me wanting so much more
If you like deadly trials, if you like sisterly love, if you like a brooding and mysterious MMC. Please, I beg you, go pick this up!!
Thank you so much to @instabooktours and @scholastic_uk for the early copy *SO SHINY* 🤗 and for having me on the tour
January 24, 2026
Thank you Netgalley and Scholastic UK for giving me a chance to read this ARC!
First of all, I devoured this book. I loved every second of it. The magic system felt very fresh and was very interesting! Originally, I was apprehensive about reading another trials/hunger games like book since they can be hit and miss but this one was so clever and fast paced, didn’t get boring reading the characters go through them! I didn’t feel like I was reading the same sort of characters again that usually feature in fantasy romances/romantasys so I ended up really loving our FMC and MMC! The whole book kept me on my toes and excited, very impatient for the second book already!
If you loved Caraval, Once Upon A Broken Heart and Serpents and The Wings of Nights. I do feel like you’d love this book!
First of all, I devoured this book. I loved every second of it. The magic system felt very fresh and was very interesting! Originally, I was apprehensive about reading another trials/hunger games like book since they can be hit and miss but this one was so clever and fast paced, didn’t get boring reading the characters go through them! I didn’t feel like I was reading the same sort of characters again that usually feature in fantasy romances/romantasys so I ended up really loving our FMC and MMC! The whole book kept me on my toes and excited, very impatient for the second book already!
If you loved Caraval, Once Upon A Broken Heart and Serpents and The Wings of Nights. I do feel like you’d love this book!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
A fast paced YA fantasy novel that is reminiscent of the hunger games.
I really enjoyed this book. Even though it gave me the same vibes as the hunger games with the trials and even the setting for one of the trials, it is definitely completely it's own thing. The magic system was intriguing and the world building was done very well.
I would not say that it is an 'enemies to lovers' storyline between Talia and Taron. It is more two people who don't know each other being forced into working together to survive. Feelings develop but each has their own reasons for remaining distant from the other.
The ending was very well done and I would love to find out what comes next for Talia and Taron.
I really enjoyed this book. Even though it gave me the same vibes as the hunger games with the trials and even the setting for one of the trials, it is definitely completely it's own thing. The magic system was intriguing and the world building was done very well.
I would not say that it is an 'enemies to lovers' storyline between Talia and Taron. It is more two people who don't know each other being forced into working together to survive. Feelings develop but each has their own reasons for remaining distant from the other.
The ending was very well done and I would love to find out what comes next for Talia and Taron.
March 5, 2026
I went into A Wish So Deadly by Marilize Loxton not knowing exactly what to expect, but it completely pulled me in from the start. It was a bit slow to start off with the world building but I understand why, because when it got going it was so action packed.
And that ending… I was not prepared. The final page genuinely had me in a chokehold. I did not see that twist coming at all, and I love when a book manages to surprise me like that. It immediately made me desperate for the next installment.
I can’t wait for book two.
Thank you so much to Scholastic UK and Insta Book Tours for gifting me a finished copy for review. 📚✨
And that ending… I was not prepared. The final page genuinely had me in a chokehold. I did not see that twist coming at all, and I love when a book manages to surprise me like that. It immediately made me desperate for the next installment.
I can’t wait for book two.
Thank you so much to Scholastic UK and Insta Book Tours for gifting me a finished copy for review. 📚✨
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
ARC Review - well I managed to read this whole book in an afternoon, that should tell you everything! But if doesn't here's some more:
This is fast paced but well paced story filled with deadly trials, an FMC with something to prove and an a MMC that's broody but with lilac hair, hello? 👀🔥
There is mystery and plotting with backstabbing, loveable side characters and twists when you least expect it.
And that epilogue?! 👀 I'm going to need book 2 quickly!!
I loved the different takeaway on magic and the blend of personalities with said magic, and the cheeky news updates from the games master giving a cheeky bit of humour.
This is fast paced but well paced story filled with deadly trials, an FMC with something to prove and an a MMC that's broody but with lilac hair, hello? 👀🔥
There is mystery and plotting with backstabbing, loveable side characters and twists when you least expect it.
And that epilogue?! 👀 I'm going to need book 2 quickly!!
I loved the different takeaway on magic and the blend of personalities with said magic, and the cheeky news updates from the games master giving a cheeky bit of humour.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
If only I could give this book 6 stars! Alas I only rate with 5 stars Max 🌟
This was a brilliant beginning to what I assume will be a multi-book series. Love and hate go hand in hand with danger and a mystery that has you gripped from the first page. The characters are fresh and representative of all genders which is encouraging in today's day and age. I adored the magic system as it was unique and compelled me to dive more into the world and the lore of the author's story. I would say anyone who loves trials, task and life or death situations fraught with perils will enjoy this first thrilling installment. I can't wait for the next book!
This was a brilliant beginning to what I assume will be a multi-book series. Love and hate go hand in hand with danger and a mystery that has you gripped from the first page. The characters are fresh and representative of all genders which is encouraging in today's day and age. I adored the magic system as it was unique and compelled me to dive more into the world and the lore of the author's story. I would say anyone who loves trials, task and life or death situations fraught with perils will enjoy this first thrilling installment. I can't wait for the next book!
March 9, 2026
For a YA fantasy novel I cannot believe how quickly and ferociously this book drew me in. This is something a teenage me NEEDED to read and yet I loved it just as much now as I know I would have then.
The world building was brilliant and I loved the magic system and it was easy to keep track with a helpful guide at the start.
This gave me hunger games vibes mixed with magical powers that just absolutely captivated me. BUT I was not prepared for that ending..! It left me wanting more.
So if this sounds like it's your cup of tea l'd urge you to add it to your TBR because genuinely you won't be disappointed.
Thanks to insta book tours and scholastic for my ARC
The world building was brilliant and I loved the magic system and it was easy to keep track with a helpful guide at the start.
This gave me hunger games vibes mixed with magical powers that just absolutely captivated me. BUT I was not prepared for that ending..! It left me wanting more.
So if this sounds like it's your cup of tea l'd urge you to add it to your TBR because genuinely you won't be disappointed.
Thanks to insta book tours and scholastic for my ARC
March 29, 2026
When Talia steals the wrong thing from the wrong person, her life is up-ended and her sister murdered. To bring her sister back to life Talia must make a deal with the very murderess herself- Madame Vera.
Madame Vera demands that Talia enter the Reconding, a deadly tournament, in disguise to win a wish. Paired with Taron, Veras henchman Talia faces three sinister trials to get her hands on the star that will grant her wish.
I absolutely love stories that have games and trials. A Wish So Deadly is no exception, it had my heart racing and excitement growing from the the first trial. The elemental magic system was very enjoyable, very different to what I have been reading recently.
Madame Vera demands that Talia enter the Reconding, a deadly tournament, in disguise to win a wish. Paired with Taron, Veras henchman Talia faces three sinister trials to get her hands on the star that will grant her wish.
I absolutely love stories that have games and trials. A Wish So Deadly is no exception, it had my heart racing and excitement growing from the the first trial. The elemental magic system was very enjoyable, very different to what I have been reading recently.
April 3, 2026
3.75 rounded up. First off, I was so confused because I thought this was standalone for some reason and couldn’t figure out how they were going to wrap it all up by the end. But it’s obviously just the first.
I enjoyed this one. I did want more. More tension, more banter, more relationship building with other characters.
I thought the premise was interesting but the magic system could have been better built up. The types of magic seem rather random to me. I’m hoping for a little more understanding of the magic system in the next one.
I also didn’t quite understand the history of the games or the main point of them. I know it was explained but I kept forgetting. And I didn’t fully understand why the soulreaper wanted the wish.
Hoping the next one reveals more! I’ll continue for sure.
I enjoyed this one. I did want more. More tension, more banter, more relationship building with other characters.
I thought the premise was interesting but the magic system could have been better built up. The types of magic seem rather random to me. I’m hoping for a little more understanding of the magic system in the next one.
I also didn’t quite understand the history of the games or the main point of them. I know it was explained but I kept forgetting. And I didn’t fully understand why the soulreaper wanted the wish.
Hoping the next one reveals more! I’ll continue for sure.
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