What do you think?
Rate this book
Wicked Beauty: a Wicked Fairytale Retelling Romantasy
Once upon a time, a vengeful fairy gets her happily ever after.
Mal was entrusted by the Enchanted Forest of Evermore as its guardian. She alone wielded an ancient magic to keep the balance between fae and human. But when she lost her true love, she slipped into a dark depression that caused the forest and the fae folk to grieve alongside her…until the day her true love returns -alive and unharmed and engaged. Now she's pissed!
Prince Phillip has always been torn between his royal duty and his heart's desire. Raised with a duty to marry the beautiful princess Aurora, even though his heart has always belonged to wicked, horned fairy whose sharp wit he craves as much as her bit. Years after Mal's death, Phillip returns from war only to find Mal alive and thriving in the forest. Before the fiery fairy can lay into him -or he can lay her beneath him- they must figure out who cursed them to believe the other was dead, how to calm the tensions between their two people, and how to unite their divided kingdom in the face of an even greater threat.
With kingdoms at stake, alliances broken, and a forbidden romance striving for a second chance, Wicked Beauty flips the tale of Sleeping Beauty on its head, proving that sometimes, the true villain is the one you least expect—and true love is the most powerful magic of all.
Mal was entrusted by the Enchanted Forest of Evermore as its guardian. She alone wielded an ancient magic to keep the balance between fae and human. But when she lost her true love, she slipped into a dark depression that caused the forest and the fae folk to grieve alongside her…until the day her true love returns -alive and unharmed and engaged. Now she's pissed!
Prince Phillip has always been torn between his royal duty and his heart's desire. Raised with a duty to marry the beautiful princess Aurora, even though his heart has always belonged to wicked, horned fairy whose sharp wit he craves as much as her bit. Years after Mal's death, Phillip returns from war only to find Mal alive and thriving in the forest. Before the fiery fairy can lay into him -or he can lay her beneath him- they must figure out who cursed them to believe the other was dead, how to calm the tensions between their two people, and how to unite their divided kingdom in the face of an even greater threat.
With kingdoms at stake, alliances broken, and a forbidden romance striving for a second chance, Wicked Beauty flips the tale of Sleeping Beauty on its head, proving that sometimes, the true villain is the one you least expect—and true love is the most powerful magic of all.
128 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 14, 2025
33 people are currently reading
128 people want to read
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 88 reviews
October 20, 2025
Ines Johnson's "Wicked Beauty" is a mesmerizing reimagining of Maleficent that flips the script and casts her in a heroic light. From page one, I was utterly captivated, hanging on every word as the story unfolded with twists and turns that kept me breathlessly engaged. Johnson's writing is nothing short of magical, painting a vivid world where familiar characters are reborn with fresh depth and complexity.
This retelling is so compelling that it begs to be adapted into a movie. The cinematic potential is undeniable, with its lush settings, dramatic conflicts, and the enchanting allure of a misunderstood protagonist. The way Johnson crafts the narrative, balancing darkness with redemption, would translate beautifully to the big screen, offering a visual feast that stays true to the heart of the story.
I am eagerly awaiting Johnson's next book, especially with the promise of an Ursula retelling on the horizon. The anticipation is high, and I'm already hoping for cameos from Mal and Philip, whose presence added a special layer of charm to "Wicked Beauty." This series has the potential to become a beloved collection, and I can't wait to see where Johnson takes us next!
This retelling is so compelling that it begs to be adapted into a movie. The cinematic potential is undeniable, with its lush settings, dramatic conflicts, and the enchanting allure of a misunderstood protagonist. The way Johnson crafts the narrative, balancing darkness with redemption, would translate beautifully to the big screen, offering a visual feast that stays true to the heart of the story.
I am eagerly awaiting Johnson's next book, especially with the promise of an Ursula retelling on the horizon. The anticipation is high, and I'm already hoping for cameos from Mal and Philip, whose presence added a special layer of charm to "Wicked Beauty." This series has the potential to become a beloved collection, and I can't wait to see where Johnson takes us next!
October 14, 2025
A refreshing tale of the clasic story sleeping beauty. A love story between Mel and Philip and bless him as he always seems to be the damsel in distress but has a heart of gold and luckily he'll reunite with his soal mate Mel who's the guardian of the forest and a fiesty strong female character who's not afraid to fight especially when there's a curse and its up to Mel to help brake it and keep Phillip and there people safe. It's full of magic, which will blow your socks off. Action packed and well written and of cause there has to be a villan and Mel will use a certain name to discride her which was pretty funny. It's also a fast burn, and Philip definitely knows how to treat Mel right, which will get pretty spicy throughout the story. It has an epic ending that will lead you to the next story, which I can't wait to read next.
November 2, 2025
Wicked Beauty completely stole my heart and then set it on fire in the best possible way. This isn’t just a retelling of Sleeping Beauty; it’s a bold, magical reinvention that flips the fairytale on its head and makes you fall in love with the story all over again.
Mal, is everything you want in a heroine: fierce, loyal, and a total powerhouse who doesn’t need saving, though she’s more than willing to fight for the people she loves. Prince Phillip, on the other hand, is beautifully written as a softer, steadfast counterpart, the kind of hero who proves that strength can also mean devotion, vulnerability, and a heart that never gives up. Together, their chemistry is electric, full of fiery tension, deep emotion, and yes, plenty of spice that will have you fanning yourself.
What makes this story truly shine is the way it weaves magic, action, and romance so seamlessly. The world of the Enchanted Forest feels alive, lush, dangerous, and full of secrets. The curse, the politics between the Fae and humans, and the emotional stakes keep you hooked from start to finish. And the villain? Deliciously wicked and hilariously named by Mal in a way that had me laughing out loud.
It’s fast-paced, heartfelt, and utterly addictive. By the time I reached the ending, which was epic, I was already desperate for the next book. If you love strong heroines, devoted heroes, and a retelling that balances heart, humour, and heat, this is a must-read.
Wicked Beauty gets a 6/5 from me because 5 stars just aren’t enough.
Mal, is everything you want in a heroine: fierce, loyal, and a total powerhouse who doesn’t need saving, though she’s more than willing to fight for the people she loves. Prince Phillip, on the other hand, is beautifully written as a softer, steadfast counterpart, the kind of hero who proves that strength can also mean devotion, vulnerability, and a heart that never gives up. Together, their chemistry is electric, full of fiery tension, deep emotion, and yes, plenty of spice that will have you fanning yourself.
What makes this story truly shine is the way it weaves magic, action, and romance so seamlessly. The world of the Enchanted Forest feels alive, lush, dangerous, and full of secrets. The curse, the politics between the Fae and humans, and the emotional stakes keep you hooked from start to finish. And the villain? Deliciously wicked and hilariously named by Mal in a way that had me laughing out loud.
It’s fast-paced, heartfelt, and utterly addictive. By the time I reached the ending, which was epic, I was already desperate for the next book. If you love strong heroines, devoted heroes, and a retelling that balances heart, humour, and heat, this is a must-read.
Wicked Beauty gets a 6/5 from me because 5 stars just aren’t enough.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 29, 2025
Wicked Beauty by Ines Johnson – A Spicy Maleficent Romantasy
Maleficent, the Guardian of the Enchanted Forest, has spent the last three years in isolation, avoiding any interaction with the outside world because she thought that her true love, Philip, was dead.
Unbeknownst to Maleficent, Philip has spent those years fighting, believing he had lost her forever. When he finally returns, both he and Maleficent discover they are cursed. But their love proves stronger than duty, and nothing—not even Aurora’s schemes—can tear them apart again. Determined to protect both her home and the love of her life, Maleficent won’t let anything stand in her way.
I love fairytale retellings, especially when they flip the narrative and make the so-called villains the heroes. In this version, Maleficent is a powerful, awe-inspiring creature who radiates strength and deep love. Meanwhile, Philip takes on a softer, more pliable role—almost like a damsel in distress—while Aurora is cast as the true villain.
The chemistry between Maleficent and Philip is captivating, and I especially enjoyed how he was enthralled by her unique form. The plot is straightforward, focusing on their love while weaving in the conflict between humans and the magical forest creatures. My favorite part? When Maleficent storms the castle to find him.
If you love romantasy with a fresh twist on classic tales, Wicked Beauty is a must-read!
Maleficent, the Guardian of the Enchanted Forest, has spent the last three years in isolation, avoiding any interaction with the outside world because she thought that her true love, Philip, was dead.
Unbeknownst to Maleficent, Philip has spent those years fighting, believing he had lost her forever. When he finally returns, both he and Maleficent discover they are cursed. But their love proves stronger than duty, and nothing—not even Aurora’s schemes—can tear them apart again. Determined to protect both her home and the love of her life, Maleficent won’t let anything stand in her way.
I love fairytale retellings, especially when they flip the narrative and make the so-called villains the heroes. In this version, Maleficent is a powerful, awe-inspiring creature who radiates strength and deep love. Meanwhile, Philip takes on a softer, more pliable role—almost like a damsel in distress—while Aurora is cast as the true villain.
The chemistry between Maleficent and Philip is captivating, and I especially enjoyed how he was enthralled by her unique form. The plot is straightforward, focusing on their love while weaving in the conflict between humans and the magical forest creatures. My favorite part? When Maleficent storms the castle to find him.
If you love romantasy with a fresh twist on classic tales, Wicked Beauty is a must-read!
October 11, 2025
Wicked Beauty: A Wicked Fairytale Retelling Romantasy (Wicked Evermore Book 1) is a must-read by Ines Johnson.
This is a retelling of Sleeping Beauty with a reversal of the roles of Maleficent and Aurora. Mal is the guardian of the forest but since her love Prince Philip died she's been unable to fulfill her duty. Prince Philip has been away at war for 3 years and feels barely alive since the death of his love, Mal. However, upon his return where he left Aurora in charge, he discovers his people have been destroying parts of the forest that are sacred. When he goes to deal with the issues he discovers Mal alive. Their curse has been broken. However, they must discover who cursed them, while trying to rebuild the relationship between the fae folk and the humans that was nearly destroyed by the curse as well. Can they figure it out before something worse than a curse separates them and their kingdoms?
I really enjoy retellings and I absolutely love the role reversal of Mal and Aurora. The Prince pissed me off a little with his naivety and belief that Aurora is so perfect instead of listening to his love Mal. I like Mal's strength and her ability to be vulnerable around the prince. This was a quick read taking me just a day but it was packed with action, betrayal, magic, curses, and spice. If you're one of those who root for the villain and know that sometimes a pretty outside covers an ugly inside then you will enjoy this retelling.
This is a retelling of Sleeping Beauty with a reversal of the roles of Maleficent and Aurora. Mal is the guardian of the forest but since her love Prince Philip died she's been unable to fulfill her duty. Prince Philip has been away at war for 3 years and feels barely alive since the death of his love, Mal. However, upon his return where he left Aurora in charge, he discovers his people have been destroying parts of the forest that are sacred. When he goes to deal with the issues he discovers Mal alive. Their curse has been broken. However, they must discover who cursed them, while trying to rebuild the relationship between the fae folk and the humans that was nearly destroyed by the curse as well. Can they figure it out before something worse than a curse separates them and their kingdoms?
I really enjoy retellings and I absolutely love the role reversal of Mal and Aurora. The Prince pissed me off a little with his naivety and belief that Aurora is so perfect instead of listening to his love Mal. I like Mal's strength and her ability to be vulnerable around the prince. This was a quick read taking me just a day but it was packed with action, betrayal, magic, curses, and spice. If you're one of those who root for the villain and know that sometimes a pretty outside covers an ugly inside then you will enjoy this retelling.
October 20, 2025
Maleficent as the good guy!
I absolutely LOVED this retelling of Sleepy Beauty!!! OMG this story was absolutely amazing because as you probably saw from my title, Maleficent gets to be the good guy in this one!
Mal has been in a funk over the last three years since she discovered that the man she was in love with, Prince Phillip, died, and she has not done her service to the forest as its Guardian ever since her mother passed. Prince Phillip, who is NOT dead, also has believed for the last three years that the love of HIS life, Mal, has been dead, and he ran off to join the fight on the front line. Finally returning to the castle where his betrothed, Princess Aurora, lives, he still has no feelings for her. After going to the forest, he discovers that Mal is still alive, and they had been put under a spell to think the other was dead.
Mal immediately realizes that it was Aurora that had done it, but Phillip can’t see her doing it. They are thrilled to be together again, but after returning to the castle again, things start not adding up for Phillip. Can Aurora really be behind everything? Did she really put them under a spell? And what does she get out of it?
This story was fantastic, and I loved the entire book. I loved how Princess Aurora AND Princess Ariel both were in the story, and I am really excited to read the next book that seems to feature the Sea Witch!!!
I absolutely LOVED this retelling of Sleepy Beauty!!! OMG this story was absolutely amazing because as you probably saw from my title, Maleficent gets to be the good guy in this one!
Mal has been in a funk over the last three years since she discovered that the man she was in love with, Prince Phillip, died, and she has not done her service to the forest as its Guardian ever since her mother passed. Prince Phillip, who is NOT dead, also has believed for the last three years that the love of HIS life, Mal, has been dead, and he ran off to join the fight on the front line. Finally returning to the castle where his betrothed, Princess Aurora, lives, he still has no feelings for her. After going to the forest, he discovers that Mal is still alive, and they had been put under a spell to think the other was dead.
Mal immediately realizes that it was Aurora that had done it, but Phillip can’t see her doing it. They are thrilled to be together again, but after returning to the castle again, things start not adding up for Phillip. Can Aurora really be behind everything? Did she really put them under a spell? And what does she get out of it?
This story was fantastic, and I loved the entire book. I loved how Princess Aurora AND Princess Ariel both were in the story, and I am really excited to read the next book that seems to feature the Sea Witch!!!
September 13, 2025
“I know what it’s like to carry anger so big it feels like it could tear the world apart. I know what it’s like to see hurt and think that the only answer is more hurt. If we let that anger grow, it will twist us. It doesn’t matter if we think we’re in the right. We don’t fight to destroy, do we? We fight to protect. The forest needs us whole. Strong, but not consumed.”
When I first decided to read this arc I didn't know what I was in for. I read spicy fairy tale retelling and thought yes please bring it on.
But what you get is most definitely not what you expected. Who knew Mal was good and she was meant to be with the prince and not aurora. Well I didn't but damn am I down for the villain getting her happily ever after.
When you start reading this book the inner dialog you have going on inside is hectic your like huh I don't get it why don't they realise they are both there but then when you realise why your like ohhhh of course there is a curse lol. But then you end up with more twist and turns that you definitely did you expect.
I honestly can't wait to read Ursula's story cause we all know she's evil right hahaha. This book was brilliantly written and I'm hooked now.
When I first decided to read this arc I didn't know what I was in for. I read spicy fairy tale retelling and thought yes please bring it on.
But what you get is most definitely not what you expected. Who knew Mal was good and she was meant to be with the prince and not aurora. Well I didn't but damn am I down for the villain getting her happily ever after.
When you start reading this book the inner dialog you have going on inside is hectic your like huh I don't get it why don't they realise they are both there but then when you realise why your like ohhhh of course there is a curse lol. But then you end up with more twist and turns that you definitely did you expect.
I honestly can't wait to read Ursula's story cause we all know she's evil right hahaha. This book was brilliantly written and I'm hooked now.
September 13, 2025
I have mentioned this before, I am not a big fan of retellings, but Ines Johnson is kinda changing my mind.
Wicked Beauty, is fantastic. I was quite concerned but I stayed the course and had good vibes in mind, knowing who the author is.
It gives Maleficent vibes, but different and honestly better. I was a fan of Maleficent so being in that flipped version of the story was very happy making.
Ines writes beautifully, the way she puts words together to express emotions and scenes is like eating salted caramel to me. I feel like I am in a dream of beautiful words.
Mal was wonderful, strong and unwilling to put up with bullshit, even when it came to her beloved Phillip and his beautiful naiveté.
I really loved how she flipped the script on Aurora, and Phillip being the one needing saving and Mal being the one to do it.
I do not know if I will remain a reader of, or seek out retellings but if Ines is writing them I think I will continue to pick them up.
Wicked Beauty, is fantastic. I was quite concerned but I stayed the course and had good vibes in mind, knowing who the author is.
It gives Maleficent vibes, but different and honestly better. I was a fan of Maleficent so being in that flipped version of the story was very happy making.
Ines writes beautifully, the way she puts words together to express emotions and scenes is like eating salted caramel to me. I feel like I am in a dream of beautiful words.
Mal was wonderful, strong and unwilling to put up with bullshit, even when it came to her beloved Phillip and his beautiful naiveté.
I really loved how she flipped the script on Aurora, and Phillip being the one needing saving and Mal being the one to do it.
I do not know if I will remain a reader of, or seek out retellings but if Ines is writing them I think I will continue to pick them up.
September 26, 2025
I really loved reading Wicked Beauty. The author is new to me so I wasn't sure on what to expect. I was captivated by the characters and the storyline so much that I was pulled into the story and gently pushed out at the end. This story is a retelling of the fairytale Sleeping Beauty and I love Miss Johnson's version a lot because the storyline is a complete twist and turn around for the original Fairytale that we read as children.
The FMC is very strong and she protects the forest and woodland creatures that live there. She is known as the Guardian of the forest.
The MMC is handsome and strong and he to protects the Woodland creatures that are in the forest. He is accepted by the forest and all that live there.
So, if you love reading fairytale retellings, Strong and Beautiful FMC's, Handsome Caring MMC's, Romance, Fae Folk then this is the book for you.
The FMC is very strong and she protects the forest and woodland creatures that live there. She is known as the Guardian of the forest.
The MMC is handsome and strong and he to protects the Woodland creatures that are in the forest. He is accepted by the forest and all that live there.
So, if you love reading fairytale retellings, Strong and Beautiful FMC's, Handsome Caring MMC's, Romance, Fae Folk then this is the book for you.
October 15, 2025
OMG! This sleeping beauty fairytale tale told with a twist or two had me hooked and glued to the pages. A wonderfully well written tale that draws you in as we follow Mal and Phillip, the guardian of the forest and a prince who have been in love since they were kids, both cursed to believe the other is dead. Fast forward a few years and the prince returns to the forest after being away at war betrothed to Princess Aurora, not only to discover that the people have destroyed parts of the forest but that Mal is alive and well. Imagine Mals surprise when she discovers Phillip is also alive and that she has suffered for no reason and boy is she mad! It’s exciting, it’s thrilling and it had me in to grips from start to finish. Twists and turns, a forbidden romance, a second chance and incredible world building, this was a wickedly magical romantasy!
October 20, 2025
Phillip the heir to the throne was in love with Maleficent (Mal) the Guardian of the Enchanted Forest, sprites, elves, fae, and other magic beings, and Mal was in love with him but for three years she had mourned him. She missed him and was afraid to open her heart. Then all of a sudden he was there! What had happened to make them think each other was gone? What are the humans doing with machines trying to cut down the magic forest? What does Princess Aurora have to do with everything? Can Phillip and Mal figure out how to show the humans and the magic ones to live and work together? This author has taken the story of Sleeping Beauty and changed up the characters, it was amazing how she should that prejudice will destroy different cultures with the thought process that one is better then the other. Do take the time to read this lovely revamped story.
September 19, 2025
Wicked Beauty was fantastic. I loved this retelling of Maleficent (Mal). It is such a different twist on this amazing fairytale and since we normally do not see a retelling of Maleficent it makes it unique. Mal and Phillip both think of each other are gone but fate has different plans. These plans involve so much more. I loved both Mal and Phillip’s characters. They both have strength and kindness in their hearts. The story is a little quicker read but it is beautifully written to where you do not feel you are missing anything. The story is packed full of drama, action, and a bit of suspense. It kept me glued to it as I had to find out how it ends. What an ending it is! It is a fabulous story that doesn’t disappoint.
October 13, 2025
A different take on a classic fairytale, it completely flips the story of Sleeping Beauty on its head.
Mal is a powerful guardian of the magical Enchanted Forest. Left heartbroken for years because she thought her true love, Prince Phillip, was dead. He turns up alive and well, believing Mal to also be dead. Prince Phillip is less of a knight and more of a devoted hero who has craved Mal since childhood.
On top of the relationship drama, Mal and Phillip have to figure out who cursed them to be separated in the first place, all while trying to stop a war from starting between the magical Fae people and the humans.
I love reading retelling, seeing how all the characters get mixed up and reversed.
This romantacy novella is a fast-paced, spicy retelling.
Mal is a powerful guardian of the magical Enchanted Forest. Left heartbroken for years because she thought her true love, Prince Phillip, was dead. He turns up alive and well, believing Mal to also be dead. Prince Phillip is less of a knight and more of a devoted hero who has craved Mal since childhood.
On top of the relationship drama, Mal and Phillip have to figure out who cursed them to be separated in the first place, all while trying to stop a war from starting between the magical Fae people and the humans.
I love reading retelling, seeing how all the characters get mixed up and reversed.
This romantacy novella is a fast-paced, spicy retelling.
October 19, 2025
Wicked Beauty feels like the opening chapter of a three-book saga, blending dark romance with political drama and a fresh fairy-tale twist. It centers on Mal, a vengeful fairy who guards the Enchanted Forest of Evermore, and Prince Phillip, torn between royal duty and his desire for Mal. The setup promises tension, with a love thought lost returning and a kingdom facing both old and new threats. The tone leans toward sharp humor balanced with weightier themes, hinting at moral gray areas rather than clear-cut heroes and villains. If the writing keeps the dialogue smart and the stakes high, it should offer a compelling start that invites readers to stay in the world. Overall, it’s an intriguing kickoff that sets the mood and stakes without revealing too much.
October 25, 2025
Wicked Beauty by Ines Johnson sleeping beauty retelling.
Well now this is a fun one. We’ve got Mal who’s the guardian of the forest and Aurora in charge of the humans. Mal loves Prince Phillip and has fallen into despair since he’s died. She doesn’t want to do much and has let things get out of hand. Then there’s Prince Philip who’s been at war 3 years and comes back devastated his love Mal is dead. He needs to go into the forest to deal with things. From this he finds out Mal isn’t actually dead. Now they need to figure out who cursed them and why along with mending relationships between the fae and people. Theres some darkness and twists and turns along the way. Overall it was a very fun read. Love a good twist on a classic fairytale.
Well now this is a fun one. We’ve got Mal who’s the guardian of the forest and Aurora in charge of the humans. Mal loves Prince Phillip and has fallen into despair since he’s died. She doesn’t want to do much and has let things get out of hand. Then there’s Prince Philip who’s been at war 3 years and comes back devastated his love Mal is dead. He needs to go into the forest to deal with things. From this he finds out Mal isn’t actually dead. Now they need to figure out who cursed them and why along with mending relationships between the fae and people. Theres some darkness and twists and turns along the way. Overall it was a very fun read. Love a good twist on a classic fairytale.
September 10, 2025
Who doesn’t want to see the Villain finally getting their happily ever after, why does it’s always have to be the Princess 😂 The story was a nice light read with a twist to Sleeping Beauty. I love the character Maleficent, The Forest Guardian & a strong female lead. Along comes Prince Philip trying to save his home land after being away for 3years. Some comical moments between the two.
Very well written, as a greedy reader I just wanted more. If you are someone who enjoys a twisted Fairy Tale this if definitely worth a read.
Looking forward to the next in the series. I believe Ursula is going to be biting off more than she can chew.
Spice rating: 🌶️
Very well written, as a greedy reader I just wanted more. If you are someone who enjoys a twisted Fairy Tale this if definitely worth a read.
Looking forward to the next in the series. I believe Ursula is going to be biting off more than she can chew.
Spice rating: 🌶️
October 15, 2025
This fantasy retelling of Sleeping Beauty was a fantastic read! I love how it flipped the usual story, and had the Prince and Mal in love, and Aurora as a little....not so pure white as the original. I was totally immersed in the story from page one, and really enjoyed getting to see how Mal protected her forest and the Prince be the one to awaken from a sort of slumber, of being essentially a pawn for Aurora to gain power. I lived how I never knew what was coming next, and having Ariel as a character was a nice surprise! Can't wait to see where the story goes with Ursula! Amazing read, and cannot wait for more!
October 15, 2025
This Sleeping Beauty fairytale retelling twists the story as everyone knows it and turns it upside down. Sure, Maleficient is still quick to anger ad her fury and wrath are not easily dismissed. Philip is still the prince that shall inherit the throne. Aurora is still the soft, charming beauty that is supposed to marry the prince. But the heroes and villains are twisted, and love finds its own way in this fast paced story. Just like the spindle curse. And there is a connection to another well-known fairytale, already hinting at new wicked twists incoming in this series. I really enjoyed how the story unfolded and love defeated all curses. Devoured in one go!
October 15, 2025
I different twist to Sleeping Beauty. This focus’ on Maleficent and Prince Phillip. Mal is the true love interest for Phillip. They have known each other since childhood. It is Aurora that wants to keep them apart. Mal is still our Guardian of the Forest but with a broken heart. Phillip is lost without her. When they both wake from a spell, their love is renewed. But how did the enchantment happen? Man, this is a twist. I do love the reverse story. I hear her voice in my head as AJ. Aurora was evil and to find out that there was another helping her is crazy. That leads into the next book. I enjoy this one. Still had a strong female saving her man. On to Wicked Song.
October 16, 2025
As a guardian of the Enchanted Forrest, Mal is powerful, however she is also lonely. Believing her love Price Philip is dead, she has spent years heartbroken... until he appears again
After realising that their heartbreak was a curse - for them to think the other was dead, Mal starts fighting to keep both Philip and their people safe.
If you love Sleeping Beauty but want a retelling with a twist, this is it!
This novella is jam packed with all the best things, a FMC who will never give up, a luscious prince and a love that will last a lifetime... if only it wasn't for that darn curse.
After realising that their heartbreak was a curse - for them to think the other was dead, Mal starts fighting to keep both Philip and their people safe.
If you love Sleeping Beauty but want a retelling with a twist, this is it!
This novella is jam packed with all the best things, a FMC who will never give up, a luscious prince and a love that will last a lifetime... if only it wasn't for that darn curse.
October 17, 2025
Wicked Beauty is the first wicked fairytale retelling romantasy novel in the Wicked Evermore series, and I loved every moment of it! Maleficent has always been one of my favorite characters, and seeing her take the lead in this retelling was "chef's kiss". With her love gone, Mal's sadness consumes her and the other fae folk. That is until Prince Phillip returns, who also thought Mal was dead, and in the twist of this story, is in fact Mal's love interest not Princess Aurora's. I loved seeing the two work together to uncover who put the spell on them and see their love continue to blossom given the forbidden romance vibes. I cannot wait to read more in this series, but what a great start!
November 18, 2025
Ok I’m not sure what I read that differs from all these great reviews… maybe it’s me, not you?? Either way, this just didn’t hit for me. I realize it was short, but there still wasn’t any world building, character arc, or development really. Their decisions didn’t make a ton of sense, and the spice was lackluster. I enjoyed the dynamic between Phillip and Mal, banter was cute and author did a good job showing a bond since childhood, but everything else felt a bit corny. Even the positive messages were a bit on the nose, like banging the reader over the head with the moral of the story instead of giving us a bit of credit to discern it ourselves. All in all, just meh 🫤
September 23, 2025
This didn’t go how I expected it to go lol I’ve read tons of fairy tale retellings and this one is completely original while also skirting the basis of the original. Very well done.
Mal and Phillip are cursed and their goal is to figure out why they were cursed and bring peace to their lands. Mal is strong and confident and capable and Phillip is a little meeker than maybe a prince should be and he leads with his heart. They balance each other nicely even when I could scream from feeling Mal’s frustrations.
Mal and Phillip are cursed and their goal is to figure out why they were cursed and bring peace to their lands. Mal is strong and confident and capable and Phillip is a little meeker than maybe a prince should be and he leads with his heart. They balance each other nicely even when I could scream from feeling Mal’s frustrations.
October 7, 2025
Wicked Beauty is a good book where everything you learned about the fairy tales has been turned upside down. I had a really hard time getting out of the disney head space to stop comparing the two. Once I did that, I was able to enjoy the dynamic of the characters and the story. Mal and Phillip were once true loves but were cursed, each thinking the other was dead. The discovery of each other still alive was tumultuous. Mal will do everything to protect her world, with twists and turns, IJ writes a great tale and finds a way to make it all work.
October 11, 2025
My favorite Disney fairytale has been turned on its head. And I’m not upset. Mal is the Guardian of the Forest, like her mother before her. Unfortunately, following the loss of her heart, Prince Phillip, she has no desire to fulfill the role. To make matters worse, Phillip’s betrothed, Aurora, is making moves against the forest.
In a delicious tale of love lost, betrayal, and a vivid reimagining of a beloved classic, readers are treated to an in-depth look at what could have been if the story had been tweaked, just a smidge.
In a delicious tale of love lost, betrayal, and a vivid reimagining of a beloved classic, readers are treated to an in-depth look at what could have been if the story had been tweaked, just a smidge.
October 12, 2025
Ok, I really love a good retelling of fairy tales, however this wasn't just a retelling, but a role reversal. Sleeping Beauty but switch Maleficent (Mal) and Aurora (Sleeping Beauty). I am here for it all! Mal and Prince Philip have to find who cursed them. Not going to lie at times Philip made me angry. However, Mal is an incredible character with strength and vulnerability. This was so good, and I absolutely loved everything about it! Really loving all the stories, I have been reading by Ines Johnson!
October 15, 2025
Ines gives us a fairytale retelling in the Wicked Evermore series! Maleficent isn't the villain, Aurora isn't the victim and Prince Phillip must see the truth. Mal and Phillip have been in love since they were children, but he thinks it's his duty to marry Aurora. From there to their hard won HEA, dive into this wonderfully written book with complex characters and plot twists that keep you guessing and turning pages throughout. I loved reading this story and highly recommend it. Don't miss out on this book!!
October 17, 2025
I absolutely loved this quick retelling of Sleeping Beauty!! This twist was beautifully written. What if the princess didn't need saving? What if the villain was the one cursed? Maleficent has spent the last 3 years believing her prince, Philip, when he was actually away fighting in a war. A curse tore them apart to think the other was dead. True loves kiss broke this curse and brought down the veil so they could both see who the true villain was. There is a HEA with some Easter Eggs for more retellings to follow. This book did not disappoint.
October 20, 2025
I devoured this!
I ate this story up!! I read it entirely in one sitting, just couldn't put it down. I love fairytale retellings and I loved how Mal is out FMC and the script has been flipped. I love when a "villainess" gets her happily ever after. The way Ines Johnson took a tale we all know, kept all the main components and completely reworked this story was so good! I couldn't wait to see how Mal and Phillip would work it all out. Can't wait to see what happens in the next story because I'm hooked!
I ate this story up!! I read it entirely in one sitting, just couldn't put it down. I love fairytale retellings and I loved how Mal is out FMC and the script has been flipped. I love when a "villainess" gets her happily ever after. The way Ines Johnson took a tale we all know, kept all the main components and completely reworked this story was so good! I couldn't wait to see how Mal and Phillip would work it all out. Can't wait to see what happens in the next story because I'm hooked!
October 20, 2025
This is kind of a sleeping beauty retelling with a twist. Phillip is the heir to the throne and he's in love with Mal aka Maleficient the Guardian of the Enchanted Forest and all who reside in it.. Mal has been in love with but has had to mourn him for three years. She's always afraid to open up to him and felt she lost her chance when he vanished. Then poof he appears . There are humans trying to cut down Mal's magic forest. Is Princess Aurora involved. Can Mal and Phillip figure things out save the forest and fall in love. . this was definitley a fun unique twist on an old classic a
Displaying 1 - 30 of 88 reviews