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The Wycherleys #1
The Wycherleys
Fall head over broomstick in love with this swoon-worthy, witchy romantic fantasy, perfect for fans of Twin Crowns, Divine Rivals and Stephanie Garber.For the Kingdom. For the magic. And for love . . . Seventeen-year-old Aurelia Wycherley is entering her debutante season as a witch. Aurelia should be excited about finding the perfect match to tether her magic to. But her magic is cursed – dark, dangerous, and not the kind that her peers want to match with – and, without a tether, she faces losing her magic completely. But when Aurelia learns that enigmatic, aloof Jules, a member of arch enemy family the Nightlys, is searching for a way that a witch can keep their magic without tethering, she realises he may be her only hope. A forbidden alliance is formed . . . but as they navigate the Magical Season with its glamoured balls and perilous trials, they uncover dark forces that threaten their families and the magical world they live in. Expect family secrets, generational curses, forbidden romance, gorgeous ballgowns, bribery, extortion, trespass, magic and kissing . . . lots of kissing.
432 pages, Paperback
First published May 6, 2025
103 people are currently reading
2131 people want to read
About the author
Annaliese Avery
11 books105 followersAnnaliese Avery is a former library manager and children's book editor who lives in Suffolk, England. She has an MA in creative writing and a life long interest in physics and astronomy and in 2017 she founded an astronomical society.
Her MG debut, The Nightsilver Promise, is published by Scholastic UK in May 2020 and Scholastic US in November 2021. The Nightsilver Promise is the first book in the epic Celestial Mechanism Cycle.
Twitter: @AnnalieseAvery
Instagram: @AnnalieseAvery
Her MG debut, The Nightsilver Promise, is published by Scholastic UK in May 2020 and Scholastic US in November 2021. The Nightsilver Promise is the first book in the epic Celestial Mechanism Cycle.
Twitter: @AnnalieseAvery
Instagram: @AnnalieseAvery
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 303 reviews
June 14, 2025
Hm.
This book felt like arriving in the middle of a conversation you can’t quite catch up on.
It wasn’t fleshed out. The plot? Had plotholes. The magic system? Unexplained & unfinished & unclear & nonsensical really. The characters? Inconsistent & kinda cringe. The romance? 😒😒😒
The concepts were really interesting & the premise made me absolutely excited to get to this but there’s nothing I hate more than characters not asking the right questions.
And who describes their own eyes as stormy????? I just… why did I read this. There’s a line that says : « He’s looking right into my stormy eyes. » 🤮 I closed my eyes for a solid minute there and just wished I could forget this line existed.
The other thing is that a lot of it should’ve been resolved way before that. I just had SO MANY unanswered questions and the dialogues were so cringe. And I thought of DNFing the WHOLE TIME but some reviews said the last 100 pages were better. They weren’t. The whole cringy romance got even worst. Honestly, wish I could forget I read this.
This book felt like arriving in the middle of a conversation you can’t quite catch up on.
It wasn’t fleshed out. The plot? Had plotholes. The magic system? Unexplained & unfinished & unclear & nonsensical really. The characters? Inconsistent & kinda cringe. The romance? 😒😒😒
The concepts were really interesting & the premise made me absolutely excited to get to this but there’s nothing I hate more than characters not asking the right questions.
And who describes their own eyes as stormy????? I just… why did I read this. There’s a line that says : « He’s looking right into my stormy eyes. » 🤮 I closed my eyes for a solid minute there and just wished I could forget this line existed.
The other thing is that a lot of it should’ve been resolved way before that. I just had SO MANY unanswered questions and the dialogues were so cringe. And I thought of DNFing the WHOLE TIME but some reviews said the last 100 pages were better. They weren’t. The whole cringy romance got even worst. Honestly, wish I could forget I read this.
August 14, 2025
2.5/5
First things first: Petition to save all characters whose eye color makes up 70% of their personality. Enough with the stormy eyes. Please.
The Wycherleys—or as I like to call it, YA Cotillion Drama with a Side of Magic (and a Broom That Has More Personality Than Half of the Characters).
Now, onto the book. The first few chapters felt a little dry, but once the main characters’ connection clicked, things picked up nicely. The world of witches and elite magical families is fun and full of potential, and the concept of tethering for power rather than love was an interesting twist. It makes far more sense for witches to prioritize strength over romance. After all, love isn’t always forever, especially when you’re seventeen and could very well break up a week later.
The trials and magical experiments were some of the strongest moments in the book, which was, unfortunately, in the last 25% of it. The event guides sprinkled throughout the story added a cute charming Gossip Girl-like touch to the book. That said, I had to remind myself a lot that these were teenagers because their decisions often felt questionable at best. It’s not that YA books can’t have young characters making impulsive choices, it’s that those choices need to feel organic rather than frustrating.
The book also leans a little too much on exposition, delivering long-winded explanations instead of letting the reader experience the world naturally. If there had been a glossary at the end, it would have saved a lot of unnecessary info-dumping. A section outlining the different types of witches, the strongest houses/covens, and the council structure would have helped clarify things without slowing down the main story.
Another issue is that the magic system feels unfinished. There are too many “wait, but what ifs?” left unanswered, which makes it hard to fully invest in how things work. The relationships also lacked the depth needed for lines like “Always together,” to truly hit. A bit more time spent developing those bonds would have made the emotional stakes feel stronger. But then again, these characters are seventeen, so maybe I’m asking too much.
.
Thank you, NetGalley, for the ARC
First things first: Petition to save all characters whose eye color makes up 70% of their personality. Enough with the stormy eyes. Please.
The Wycherleys—or as I like to call it, YA Cotillion Drama with a Side of Magic (and a Broom That Has More Personality Than Half of the Characters).
Now, onto the book. The first few chapters felt a little dry, but once the main characters’ connection clicked, things picked up nicely. The world of witches and elite magical families is fun and full of potential, and the concept of tethering for power rather than love was an interesting twist. It makes far more sense for witches to prioritize strength over romance. After all, love isn’t always forever, especially when you’re seventeen and could very well break up a week later.
The trials and magical experiments were some of the strongest moments in the book, which was, unfortunately, in the last 25% of it. The event guides sprinkled throughout the story added a cute charming Gossip Girl-like touch to the book. That said, I had to remind myself a lot that these were teenagers because their decisions often felt questionable at best. It’s not that YA books can’t have young characters making impulsive choices, it’s that those choices need to feel organic rather than frustrating.
The book also leans a little too much on exposition, delivering long-winded explanations instead of letting the reader experience the world naturally. If there had been a glossary at the end, it would have saved a lot of unnecessary info-dumping. A section outlining the different types of witches, the strongest houses/covens, and the council structure would have helped clarify things without slowing down the main story.
Another issue is that the magic system feels unfinished. There are too many “wait, but what ifs?” left unanswered, which makes it hard to fully invest in how things work. The relationships also lacked the depth needed for lines like “Always together,” to truly hit. A bit more time spent developing those bonds would have made the emotional stakes feel stronger. But then again, these characters are seventeen, so maybe I’m asking too much.
.
Thank you, NetGalley, for the ARC
April 27, 2025
oh what the hell, 5 stars!!! this was so cute and romantic!!! and also the wider plot with the murder mystery was, while not wholly unpredictable, so good I cannot wait for the second book!! I really hope we get to see more of aurelia performing magic, the section where they experiment with her magic was so interesting and really showed her personality well.
On the whole, the Wycherleys is probably a bit cheesy but I don't care, the romance was youthful and innocent and romantic whilst also having a really interesting world setting and magic system. It feels like your favourite comfort film in book form and I cant wait for more of jules and aurelia.
On the whole, the Wycherleys is probably a bit cheesy but I don't care, the romance was youthful and innocent and romantic whilst also having a really interesting world setting and magic system. It feels like your favourite comfort film in book form and I cant wait for more of jules and aurelia.
Want to read
January 27, 2025it has a cute cover and involves witches so of course i requested from netgalley and actually recieved another arc?!!
June 23, 2025
He smiles. 'I do so love our couple's activities: forgery, bribery, extortion, trespass.
I nudge him with my elbow, then I lean close and say in a low voice, 'You forgot theft.'
Po przeczytaniu tej książki mam ochotę na więcej Regency Fantasy. Bale i magia? Fantastycznie się bawiłam, podobał mi się klimat, wciągnęłam się w romans ( wrogie sobie klany niczym wiedzmowa wersja Romea i Julii) i zagadka kryminalna. Chętnie przeczytam kolejne książki tej autorki.
The broom shoots off and I turn to see Nightly looking at me. 'That is definitely not usual broom behaviour,' he says and smiles.
'Since when has anything or anyone that chooses me been normal?'
I nudge him with my elbow, then I lean close and say in a low voice, 'You forgot theft.'
Po przeczytaniu tej książki mam ochotę na więcej Regency Fantasy. Bale i magia? Fantastycznie się bawiłam, podobał mi się klimat, wciągnęłam się w romans ( wrogie sobie klany niczym wiedzmowa wersja Romea i Julii) i zagadka kryminalna. Chętnie przeczytam kolejne książki tej autorki.
The broom shoots off and I turn to see Nightly looking at me. 'That is definitely not usual broom behaviour,' he says and smiles.
'Since when has anything or anyone that chooses me been normal?'
October 18, 2025
Harry Potter meets Kroniky prachu a já to miluju!
February 19, 2025
4.5⭐
Thank you Annaliese Avery, Simon and Schuster UK and NetGalley for the ARC.
This was a delight to read! It's a YA romantic fantasy, pitched as Bridgerton meets Divine Rivals and it did not disappoint. Set in reimagined Regency London where magical realism is prevalent, the worldbuilding and lore is compelling and the characters are to root for.
Hidden beneath the lyrical writing and whimsical world, there's an intriguing, intricately plotted mystery with all the accomplished attention to detail I love so well in a good book.
Aurelia was a great character - she was allowed to feel human with her hurt and upset at how the rest of magical society treats her, but she just let it bolster her resolve and confidence. She will enjoy all her time with her magic before it goes, and she won't let anyone else dictate what she should and shouldn't do or feel.
I loved the romantic and platonic relationships in this book. The bond between Aurelia and Vaughn is so precious and the friendship between her and Constance was lovely.
The tension and chemistry between Jules and Aurelia was smoking and sizzling. They were such a cute and badass pair together.
From the ending, I can it can be read as a standalone but there is so much space left for a sequel. If there will be one, I'll be continuing the series!
Thank you Annaliese Avery, Simon and Schuster UK and NetGalley for the ARC.
This was a delight to read! It's a YA romantic fantasy, pitched as Bridgerton meets Divine Rivals and it did not disappoint. Set in reimagined Regency London where magical realism is prevalent, the worldbuilding and lore is compelling and the characters are to root for.
Hidden beneath the lyrical writing and whimsical world, there's an intriguing, intricately plotted mystery with all the accomplished attention to detail I love so well in a good book.
Aurelia was a great character - she was allowed to feel human with her hurt and upset at how the rest of magical society treats her, but she just let it bolster her resolve and confidence. She will enjoy all her time with her magic before it goes, and she won't let anyone else dictate what she should and shouldn't do or feel.
I loved the romantic and platonic relationships in this book. The bond between Aurelia and Vaughn is so precious and the friendship between her and Constance was lovely.
The tension and chemistry between Jules and Aurelia was smoking and sizzling. They were such a cute and badass pair together.
From the ending, I can it can be read as a standalone but there is so much space left for a sequel. If there will be one, I'll be continuing the series!
June 5, 2025
Utterly charmed by this and I’m so annoyed I didn’t keep for my October Halloween theme reads!!
Such a sweet & wholesome witchy book with an interesting magic system & a mystery to be solved. Very Bridgerton but with witches! Every time Aurelia got an invitation I heard Lady Whistledown in my head. The loveliest bunch of characters also, especially Constance! Everyone needs and deserves a friend like that in their lives 🥺🫶🏻✨
Such a sweet & wholesome witchy book with an interesting magic system & a mystery to be solved. Very Bridgerton but with witches! Every time Aurelia got an invitation I heard Lady Whistledown in my head. The loveliest bunch of characters also, especially Constance! Everyone needs and deserves a friend like that in their lives 🥺🫶🏻✨
October 28, 2025
3,5/5
Reseña Express
Vi este libro entre las novedades de Gran Travesía y me llamó muchísimo la atención, no solo por su preciosa edición en tapa dura con los cantos pintados, sino también por su premisa. Me apetecía algo ligero, tierno y reconfortante, una de esas lecturas que te dejan con el corazón calentito, y eso es exactamente lo que me he encontrado entre sus páginas. Una historia sencilla, pero llena de encanto, que se lee con una sonrisa constante.
🌹Estamos ante un romantasy juvenil que combina a la perfección la magia y el romance, una especie de mezcla entre Harry Potter y Los Bridgerton: academias mágicas, bailes, secretos familiares y mucha tensión romántica. Una historia que tiene ese aire de cuento encantador, toda la elegancia de la alta sociedad.
🌹La trama me ha mantenido enganchada con el misterio de la maldición de nuestra protagonista y con el de los asesinatos de brujos y brujas
🌹La ambientación me ha resultado muy bonita: un mundo lleno de magia, hechizos, academias mágicas y bailes, donde todo está impregnado de ese aire elegante y fantástico. Vestidos coloridos, detalles mágicos un toque de cuento clásico.
🌹Los personajes principales me han parecido bastante correctos y agradables, y la relación romántica entre ellos es simplemente adorable. Es una dinámica tierna, inocente y muy juvenil (nada de spicy, aquí todo es miradas robadas, sonrisas tímidas y momentos que te derriten el corazón). Perfecta para quienes disfrutan de los romances dulces y sin dramas excesivos.
🥀A pesar de todo lo bueno, la historia peca de ser demasiado sencilla y se queda bastante corta en cuanto a la construcción del mundo y del sistema de magia. Da la sensación de que hay un universo muy interesante detrás, pero no llega a desarrollarse del todo, quedando más como un bonito escenario de fondo que como un elemento con verdadero peso en la trama. Y los personajes secundarios planos y casi sin relevancia.
En definitiva, este libro ha sido una lectura bastante encantadora y ligera, perfecta para desconectar y disfrutar de una historia mágica y romántica sin complicaciones.
Aunque no destaca por su profundidad ni por un worldbuilding elaborado, compensa con su ternura, su atmósfera acogedora y unos protagonistas que te sacan más de una sonrisa. Ideal para quienes buscan un romantasy amable, bonito y con ese toque juvenil que deja el corazón calentito.
Por lo que he visto, hay una segunda parte y , aunque queda todo bastante cerrado, no me importaría leerlo para ver que misterios tendrán que afrontar Aurelia y Jules.
-Ig: https://www.instagram.com/p/DQXNURvjd...
-Blog: https://addicionaloslibros.blogspot.c...
Reseña Express
Vi este libro entre las novedades de Gran Travesía y me llamó muchísimo la atención, no solo por su preciosa edición en tapa dura con los cantos pintados, sino también por su premisa. Me apetecía algo ligero, tierno y reconfortante, una de esas lecturas que te dejan con el corazón calentito, y eso es exactamente lo que me he encontrado entre sus páginas. Una historia sencilla, pero llena de encanto, que se lee con una sonrisa constante.
🌹Estamos ante un romantasy juvenil que combina a la perfección la magia y el romance, una especie de mezcla entre Harry Potter y Los Bridgerton: academias mágicas, bailes, secretos familiares y mucha tensión romántica. Una historia que tiene ese aire de cuento encantador, toda la elegancia de la alta sociedad.
🌹La trama me ha mantenido enganchada con el misterio de la maldición de nuestra protagonista y con el de los asesinatos de brujos y brujas
🌹La ambientación me ha resultado muy bonita: un mundo lleno de magia, hechizos, academias mágicas y bailes, donde todo está impregnado de ese aire elegante y fantástico. Vestidos coloridos, detalles mágicos un toque de cuento clásico.
🌹Los personajes principales me han parecido bastante correctos y agradables, y la relación romántica entre ellos es simplemente adorable. Es una dinámica tierna, inocente y muy juvenil (nada de spicy, aquí todo es miradas robadas, sonrisas tímidas y momentos que te derriten el corazón). Perfecta para quienes disfrutan de los romances dulces y sin dramas excesivos.
🥀A pesar de todo lo bueno, la historia peca de ser demasiado sencilla y se queda bastante corta en cuanto a la construcción del mundo y del sistema de magia. Da la sensación de que hay un universo muy interesante detrás, pero no llega a desarrollarse del todo, quedando más como un bonito escenario de fondo que como un elemento con verdadero peso en la trama. Y los personajes secundarios planos y casi sin relevancia.
En definitiva, este libro ha sido una lectura bastante encantadora y ligera, perfecta para desconectar y disfrutar de una historia mágica y romántica sin complicaciones.
Aunque no destaca por su profundidad ni por un worldbuilding elaborado, compensa con su ternura, su atmósfera acogedora y unos protagonistas que te sacan más de una sonrisa. Ideal para quienes buscan un romantasy amable, bonito y con ese toque juvenil que deja el corazón calentito.
Por lo que he visto, hay una segunda parte y , aunque queda todo bastante cerrado, no me importaría leerlo para ver que misterios tendrán que afrontar Aurelia y Jules.
-Ig: https://www.instagram.com/p/DQXNURvjd...
-Blog: https://addicionaloslibros.blogspot.c...
May 28, 2025
The Wycherleys... DNF 20%
I saw this in the window of my local Waterstones and thought the cover was really intriguing and fun but unfortunately, I was left wanting but mostly wondering how it managed to get published, the characters were all over the place but it was easy to read, even if it is for the young adult audience that is still no excuse for lazy characters and mediocre story lines, it reads like its the first draft, the author should've done more research and taken time before it went to print.
I saw this in the window of my local Waterstones and thought the cover was really intriguing and fun but unfortunately, I was left wanting but mostly wondering how it managed to get published, the characters were all over the place but it was easy to read, even if it is for the young adult audience that is still no excuse for lazy characters and mediocre story lines, it reads like its the first draft, the author should've done more research and taken time before it went to print.
Read
July 21, 2025It wasn't for me. I know I'm not its target audience, so I'll be brief.
The characters were one-dimensional and the dialogues were flat and repetitive, so they didn't hit hard enough. Plot was very predictable.
Can be okay as a palate cleanser. Despite my negative comments, I didn't hate it. Just not my cuppa.
A bookseller recommended it to me as 'Harry Potter but better'. Sorry dear bookseller! Hard disagree. Cheers for the rec, though
The characters were one-dimensional and the dialogues were flat and repetitive, so they didn't hit hard enough. Plot was very predictable.
Can be okay as a palate cleanser. Despite my negative comments, I didn't hate it. Just not my cuppa.
A bookseller recommended it to me as 'Harry Potter but better'. Sorry dear bookseller! Hard disagree. Cheers for the rec, though
August 26, 2025
The Wycherleys is basically if Bridgerton had magic (without the smut).
I thought the idea was cute, and I like what the author was trying to do. The inclusion of the ball invitations and etiquette guide that were dispersed throughout the chapters was fun. Ultimately I do feel this reads as rather young Y.A. which doesn't particularly suit my reading tastes anymore, but would be perfect for younger readers who want a fun dash of romance thrown in with their magic.
I received an ARC via Netgalley.
I thought the idea was cute, and I like what the author was trying to do. The inclusion of the ball invitations and etiquette guide that were dispersed throughout the chapters was fun. Ultimately I do feel this reads as rather young Y.A. which doesn't particularly suit my reading tastes anymore, but would be perfect for younger readers who want a fun dash of romance thrown in with their magic.
I received an ARC via Netgalley.
February 25, 2025
A delightful YA novel about witches, with a great magic system, sweet romance and an action-packed plot. I didn’t expect to enjoy this book as much as I did!
First of all, I really appreciated the worldbuilding. It’s simple, yet it works very well. The action takes place in an alternate London during the Regency period, but in this world, alongside non-magical people, there are also witches. Unlike in the non-magical world, young people entering witch society don’t search for a husband or wife, but for a magical partner with whom they must tether in order to retain their magic. If, within three seasons, they fail to find their tether, they lose their magic. The main protagonist, Aurelia, is the bearer of a family curse and knows she cannot tether with anyone, meaning she will lose her magic. To prevent this, she teams up with Jules, a member of the family that cursed her, who has his own agenda to find a way to preserve magic without the need for tethering.
In addition to the concept of magical bonds, I really loved the idea of a parallel community of witches existing alongside our own world. They live their own lives, attend their own schools, and have their own social structure. I’ve missed something like this since the days of Harry Potter—the book fills that longing perfectly.
The book is very fast-paced and packed with action. There isn’t a single unnecessary scene, and the entire story reads quickly. I should also note that the plot includes a criminal mystery. The timeline of Aurelia and Jules' actions coincides with a series of witch murders in London, the motives for which remain unknown. The mystery is well-plotted, and it’s clear we’re dealing with a deeper intrigue that will continue in the sequel.
I really liked the characters—both the main ones, Aurelia and Jules, and the secondary ones, who aren’t just flat stereotypes. Aurelia’s brother Voughan and her friend Constance were particularly likeable, but there are also some well-written adult characters.
As for the romance, it’s a YA book, and the characters don’t try to act more mature than they are. On the other hand, in 1814, 17-year-olds were already entering adult society and even marrying, so focusing a Regency story on characters of that age felt natural. Aurelia and Jules are really sweet, by the way. Their dynamic is a bit like enemies to lovers, but of course, they were never truly enemies, so it’s no surprise they fall in love quite quickly. For many, this might feel like insta-love, but in books about teenagers, I’m willing to accept that dynamic. I’ll also add that while the romance is an important element of the book, the plot stands on its own and isn’t solely centered around the romantic relationship.
In the end, it’s hard for me to find any criticism of this book. What it sets out to do, it does well. It’s truly a fine YA book, and I would recommend it to both teenagers and older readers. I can’t wait for the sequel!
Thank you NetGalley and Simon and Schuster UK Children's for providing me with an ARC in exchange for my honest review.
First of all, I really appreciated the worldbuilding. It’s simple, yet it works very well. The action takes place in an alternate London during the Regency period, but in this world, alongside non-magical people, there are also witches. Unlike in the non-magical world, young people entering witch society don’t search for a husband or wife, but for a magical partner with whom they must tether in order to retain their magic. If, within three seasons, they fail to find their tether, they lose their magic. The main protagonist, Aurelia, is the bearer of a family curse and knows she cannot tether with anyone, meaning she will lose her magic. To prevent this, she teams up with Jules, a member of the family that cursed her, who has his own agenda to find a way to preserve magic without the need for tethering.
In addition to the concept of magical bonds, I really loved the idea of a parallel community of witches existing alongside our own world. They live their own lives, attend their own schools, and have their own social structure. I’ve missed something like this since the days of Harry Potter—the book fills that longing perfectly.
The book is very fast-paced and packed with action. There isn’t a single unnecessary scene, and the entire story reads quickly. I should also note that the plot includes a criminal mystery. The timeline of Aurelia and Jules' actions coincides with a series of witch murders in London, the motives for which remain unknown. The mystery is well-plotted, and it’s clear we’re dealing with a deeper intrigue that will continue in the sequel.
I really liked the characters—both the main ones, Aurelia and Jules, and the secondary ones, who aren’t just flat stereotypes. Aurelia’s brother Voughan and her friend Constance were particularly likeable, but there are also some well-written adult characters.
As for the romance, it’s a YA book, and the characters don’t try to act more mature than they are. On the other hand, in 1814, 17-year-olds were already entering adult society and even marrying, so focusing a Regency story on characters of that age felt natural. Aurelia and Jules are really sweet, by the way. Their dynamic is a bit like enemies to lovers, but of course, they were never truly enemies, so it’s no surprise they fall in love quite quickly. For many, this might feel like insta-love, but in books about teenagers, I’m willing to accept that dynamic. I’ll also add that while the romance is an important element of the book, the plot stands on its own and isn’t solely centered around the romantic relationship.
In the end, it’s hard for me to find any criticism of this book. What it sets out to do, it does well. It’s truly a fine YA book, and I would recommend it to both teenagers and older readers. I can’t wait for the sequel!
Thank you NetGalley and Simon and Schuster UK Children's for providing me with an ARC in exchange for my honest review.
March 3, 2025
The Wycherleys – Bridgerton with Magic (and a Whole Lot of Love Confessions)
This is a YA Regency fantasy that’s light and easy to read. But before you grab your fan and smelling salts, let’s talk about what worked and what had me dramatically sighing like a heroine in distress.
✨ Effortless Writing – The prose is smooth and easy to digest, making it a breezy, quick read.
✨ Straightforward Plot – No tangled webs of intrigue or overly complex subplots. The story moves along at a nice pace.
✨ A Bright, Charming World – The setting is colourful and fun, perfect for those who enjoy a lighter fantasy.
🌪 Inconsistent Characters – The main characters felt a bit all over the place, like their personalities shifted depending on what the plot needed at the moment.
🌪 Regency in Name Only – It may be set in the Regency era, but don’t expect historically accurate language, manners, or social dynamics. It reads much more modern.
🌪 YA… but That’s Not an Excuse – I had to keep reminding myself this is a YA book, but even so, the world-building and character depth could have been much stronger.
🌪 A Mystery That Fizzles Out – The central mystery was intriguing at first, but around the halfway point, it stopped being mysterious at all.
🌪 The Love Story Overload – I was considering a solid 3-star rating, but by the last 100 pages, the relentless barrage of love confessions, eternal pledges, and dramatic declarations had me rolling my eyes into another dimension.
🌪 Magic System? What Magic System? – No rules, no structure—just vibes.
If you’re looking for a light, easy-to-read fantasy with a fun setting and don’t mind a bit (or a lot) of cheesiness, The Wycherleys might be for you. However, if you want solid world-building, period-authentic writing, or a well-thought-out magic system, you might end up as exhausted as I was by the end. A cute idea that doesn’t quite stick the landing.
Thank you, NetGalley, for the ARC!
This is a YA Regency fantasy that’s light and easy to read. But before you grab your fan and smelling salts, let’s talk about what worked and what had me dramatically sighing like a heroine in distress.
✨ Effortless Writing – The prose is smooth and easy to digest, making it a breezy, quick read.
✨ Straightforward Plot – No tangled webs of intrigue or overly complex subplots. The story moves along at a nice pace.
✨ A Bright, Charming World – The setting is colourful and fun, perfect for those who enjoy a lighter fantasy.
🌪 Inconsistent Characters – The main characters felt a bit all over the place, like their personalities shifted depending on what the plot needed at the moment.
🌪 Regency in Name Only – It may be set in the Regency era, but don’t expect historically accurate language, manners, or social dynamics. It reads much more modern.
🌪 YA… but That’s Not an Excuse – I had to keep reminding myself this is a YA book, but even so, the world-building and character depth could have been much stronger.
🌪 A Mystery That Fizzles Out – The central mystery was intriguing at first, but around the halfway point, it stopped being mysterious at all.
🌪 The Love Story Overload – I was considering a solid 3-star rating, but by the last 100 pages, the relentless barrage of love confessions, eternal pledges, and dramatic declarations had me rolling my eyes into another dimension.
🌪 Magic System? What Magic System? – No rules, no structure—just vibes.
If you’re looking for a light, easy-to-read fantasy with a fun setting and don’t mind a bit (or a lot) of cheesiness, The Wycherleys might be for you. However, if you want solid world-building, period-authentic writing, or a well-thought-out magic system, you might end up as exhausted as I was by the end. A cute idea that doesn’t quite stick the landing.
Thank you, NetGalley, for the ARC!
November 22, 2025
I really wish we would have gotten more of the family feud/enemies to lovers dynamic between Aurelia and Nightly like we did a little bit at the beginning. Their dynamic was much more fun then and it quickly escalated to them falling head over heels in a insta love fashion which was a little disappointing.
I just wanted more tension.
I also think that more could have been done with Sebastian like we never really got to know him and why Aurelia used to be so close with him/in love with him. It would have added more layers to the stories and Aurelias character if Sebastian had just a bit more substance. Instead he just felt like an unnecessary small obstacle between Aurelia and Nightly’s budding relationship that was quickly overcome.
Overall I did enjoy the first half of this book quite a lot. I really did like Nightly as a character, he was definitely the most interesting one.
I just wanted more tension.
I also think that more could have been done with Sebastian like we never really got to know him and why Aurelia used to be so close with him/in love with him. It would have added more layers to the stories and Aurelias character if Sebastian had just a bit more substance. Instead he just felt like an unnecessary small obstacle between Aurelia and Nightly’s budding relationship that was quickly overcome.
Overall I did enjoy the first half of this book quite a lot. I really did like Nightly as a character, he was definitely the most interesting one.
June 2, 2025
“Do not darken your light.”
Thank you to Simon & Schuster Children’s UK for an advanced copy of this book in exchange for a honest review.
Seventeen-year-old Aurelia Wycherley is entering her debutante season as a witch. Aurelia should be excited about finding the perfect match to tether her magic to. But her magic is cursed – dark, dangerous, and not the kind that her peers want to match with – and, without a tether, she faces losing her magic completely. But when Aurelia learns that enigmatic, aloof Jules, a member of arch enemy family the Nightlys, is searching for a way that a witch can keep their magic without tethering, she realises he may be her only hope. A forbidden alliance is formed . . . but as they navigate the Magical Season with its glamoured balls and perilous trials, they uncover dark forces that threaten their families and the magical world they live in.
Aurelia is certainly rather isolated. Being cursed, no one wants to be near her any longer in fear they’ll be sickened by her. I did feel for her. Aurelia is clearly strong willed and has a big heart, but that big heart is definitely her downfall. She feels too deeply about everything and I felt that hindered her progress slightly. She could have progressed further or sooner if she’d allowed herself to compartmentalise her emotions and focus more on her magic and its effects. She certainly has promise, I just feel she could have been a little stronger.
Jules did frustrate me, I can’t lie. He’s supposedly enigmatic and desirable but he annoyed me for a lot of the story because of how he treats others. And yet, he apparently develops feelings for the one he “loathes” and wants nothing to do with? He felt a little unrealistic in many parts too - his personality seemingly changing which stopped me engaging with his character as much. Yes, he grew on me a little but when it takes about two thirds of the book to do that? We’re not on to a winner.
The biggest thing that drew me towards this book is the fact it is marketed as Bridgerton meets witches. Loving both of these things, I knew I needed to dive in and see what was going on! The plot isn’t too bad, it just felt like a lot. Everything felt unnecessarily wordy (how many times does someone’s name need to be said in a single paragraph?! Answer: apparently a lot) and there were a lot of random history lessons plonked on in - almost in lieu of world building. Because of this, I did find my attention straying at times which is never a good thing when reading a book. I will say that the magic system is an interesting one. The idea that your magic has the perfect match to make it stronger is an intriguing one - even if it felt a little out of place in the regency era (one where physical touch between two unwed people was seen as scandalous) due to the physical nature of casting magic. The characters weren’t too bad, they just felt a bit too repetitive. It’s as if they’ve all been stamped from the same cookie cutter, just iced differently. I just found myself wanting more from them. Romance wise, I had hoped for more. When a fake dating trope is thrown in, I want it to be angsty and for the chemistry to boil over. It didn’t feel that way for me. We had enemies, then a mutual truce for the benefit of both. The friendship worked for me brilliantly but then all of a sudden we have declarations of love? I found myself questioning where the heck those emotions suddenly came from! Not to mention how I felt cheated on the kissing front! When you look up the synopsis of this book, it states in black and white “kissing… lots of kissing…” and yet, I was ready to get out my binoculars to search for it. We get a few pecks and that is it! The ending was okay but felt so open ended that I feel as if it’s incomplete. It is clearly building up for a sequel. However, it is not something I will be reading.
Overall, The Wycherleys is a book that drew me in with the promise of magic but I feel could have been executed better.
⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
Thank you again to Simon & Schuster Children’s UK for an advanced copy of this book.
Thank you to Simon & Schuster Children’s UK for an advanced copy of this book in exchange for a honest review.
Seventeen-year-old Aurelia Wycherley is entering her debutante season as a witch. Aurelia should be excited about finding the perfect match to tether her magic to. But her magic is cursed – dark, dangerous, and not the kind that her peers want to match with – and, without a tether, she faces losing her magic completely. But when Aurelia learns that enigmatic, aloof Jules, a member of arch enemy family the Nightlys, is searching for a way that a witch can keep their magic without tethering, she realises he may be her only hope. A forbidden alliance is formed . . . but as they navigate the Magical Season with its glamoured balls and perilous trials, they uncover dark forces that threaten their families and the magical world they live in.
Aurelia is certainly rather isolated. Being cursed, no one wants to be near her any longer in fear they’ll be sickened by her. I did feel for her. Aurelia is clearly strong willed and has a big heart, but that big heart is definitely her downfall. She feels too deeply about everything and I felt that hindered her progress slightly. She could have progressed further or sooner if she’d allowed herself to compartmentalise her emotions and focus more on her magic and its effects. She certainly has promise, I just feel she could have been a little stronger.
Jules did frustrate me, I can’t lie. He’s supposedly enigmatic and desirable but he annoyed me for a lot of the story because of how he treats others. And yet, he apparently develops feelings for the one he “loathes” and wants nothing to do with? He felt a little unrealistic in many parts too - his personality seemingly changing which stopped me engaging with his character as much. Yes, he grew on me a little but when it takes about two thirds of the book to do that? We’re not on to a winner.
The biggest thing that drew me towards this book is the fact it is marketed as Bridgerton meets witches. Loving both of these things, I knew I needed to dive in and see what was going on! The plot isn’t too bad, it just felt like a lot. Everything felt unnecessarily wordy (how many times does someone’s name need to be said in a single paragraph?! Answer: apparently a lot) and there were a lot of random history lessons plonked on in - almost in lieu of world building. Because of this, I did find my attention straying at times which is never a good thing when reading a book. I will say that the magic system is an interesting one. The idea that your magic has the perfect match to make it stronger is an intriguing one - even if it felt a little out of place in the regency era (one where physical touch between two unwed people was seen as scandalous) due to the physical nature of casting magic. The characters weren’t too bad, they just felt a bit too repetitive. It’s as if they’ve all been stamped from the same cookie cutter, just iced differently. I just found myself wanting more from them. Romance wise, I had hoped for more. When a fake dating trope is thrown in, I want it to be angsty and for the chemistry to boil over. It didn’t feel that way for me. We had enemies, then a mutual truce for the benefit of both. The friendship worked for me brilliantly but then all of a sudden we have declarations of love? I found myself questioning where the heck those emotions suddenly came from! Not to mention how I felt cheated on the kissing front! When you look up the synopsis of this book, it states in black and white “kissing… lots of kissing…” and yet, I was ready to get out my binoculars to search for it. We get a few pecks and that is it! The ending was okay but felt so open ended that I feel as if it’s incomplete. It is clearly building up for a sequel. However, it is not something I will be reading.
Overall, The Wycherleys is a book that drew me in with the promise of magic but I feel could have been executed better.
⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
Thank you again to Simon & Schuster Children’s UK for an advanced copy of this book.
October 21, 2025
✨🕯️ Ród Wycherley Annaliese Avery to powieść, która otwiera drzwi do świata, gdzie elegancja londyńskich salonów spotyka się z nieokiełznaną siłą magii. W tym świecie debiutują młode czarownice, szukając partnerów, z którymi połączą swoje moce – nie tylko z rozsądku, ale i z przeznaczenia. Siedemnastoletnia Aurelia Wycherley marzy o własnym miejscu w tym pełnym reguł i sekretów społeczeństwie, lecz jej magia jest inna, mroczna, niebezpieczna. Avery od pierwszych stron prowadzi czytelnika przez świat, w którym potęga zaklęć ustępuje miejsca sile serca, a to, co zakazane, bywa najprawdziwsze.
✨🕯️ Reimaginowany Londyn Avery to przestrzeń pełna kontrastów – z jednej strony blask kandelabrów i muzyka walców, z drugiej cień spisków i szeptów w zaułkach, gdzie rodzą się intrygi. Autorka mistrzowsko łączy subtelność romansu z napięciem fantasy, tworząc opowieść, która pulsuje emocjami. Każdy bal staje się tu areną nie tylko towarzyskich flirtów, ale i magicznych rozgrywek, gdzie stawką jest coś więcej niż reputacja – własna tożsamość. Ten świat, utkany z elegancji i niebezpieczeństwa, przypomina, że granica między obowiązkiem a pragnieniem jest cienka jak krawędź ostrza.
✨🕯️ Aurelia jest bohaterką, którą łatwo pokochać – nie dlatego, że jest idealna, ale dlatego, że pozwala sobie być prawdziwa. Jej gniew, niepewność i bunt stają się źródłem siły, a przeklęta moc – nie przekleństwem, lecz darem, który trzeba nauczyć się rozumieć. W relacji z tajemniczym Julesem Nightlychem Avery pokazuje, że magia uczuć potrafi być groźniejsza niż każde zaklęcie. Ich spotkania iskrzą napięciem, ale pod tą elektrycznością kryje się coś głębszego – potrzeba zrozumienia i wolności, nawet jeśli trzeba za nią zapłacić wysoką cenę.
✨🕯️ Obok romansu rozkwitają tu inne relacje – pełne czułości i wsparcia. Przyjaźń Aurelii z Constance to przypomnienie, że w świecie zdominowanym przez rywalizację można znaleźć bezpieczną przestrzeń, w której słabość staje się siłą. Wątek rodzinny z kolei odsłania ciężar tradycji i oczekiwań, jakie niosą nazwiska takie jak Wycherley. Avery z lekkością balansuje między emocjami a przygodą, między światłem a cieniem, nie zapominając, że nawet w opowieści o czarodziejach najważniejsze jest człowieczeństwo.
ㅤ
✨🕯️ Styl Annaliese Avery zachwyca – jej język jest bogaty, a zarazem przystępny, nasycony rytmem i barwą epoki. Autorka potrafi tworzyć obrazy, które ożywają w wyobraźni – płonące runy, błysk sukni na parkiecie, cień zaklęcia unoszący się nad dłonią. To literatura młodzieżowa w najlepszym wydaniu: pełna pasji, przygody i refleksji o tym, jak trudno dorastać w świecie, który chce nas zamknąć w gotowych formach.
ㅤ
✨🕯️ Ród Wycherley to historia o odwadze bycia sobą, o miłości, która nie zna granic, i o magii, która płynie z akceptacji własnej inności. Annaliese Avery stworzyła powieść, która łączy w sobie romantyczne napięcie z filozoficzną głębią – opowieść o dojrzewaniu, lojalności i odwadze. To książka, po której zostaje w sercu iskra – mała, ale jasna, przypominająca, że każda moc, nawet ta najmroczniejsza, może być początkiem światła.
✨🕯️ Reimaginowany Londyn Avery to przestrzeń pełna kontrastów – z jednej strony blask kandelabrów i muzyka walców, z drugiej cień spisków i szeptów w zaułkach, gdzie rodzą się intrygi. Autorka mistrzowsko łączy subtelność romansu z napięciem fantasy, tworząc opowieść, która pulsuje emocjami. Każdy bal staje się tu areną nie tylko towarzyskich flirtów, ale i magicznych rozgrywek, gdzie stawką jest coś więcej niż reputacja – własna tożsamość. Ten świat, utkany z elegancji i niebezpieczeństwa, przypomina, że granica między obowiązkiem a pragnieniem jest cienka jak krawędź ostrza.
✨🕯️ Aurelia jest bohaterką, którą łatwo pokochać – nie dlatego, że jest idealna, ale dlatego, że pozwala sobie być prawdziwa. Jej gniew, niepewność i bunt stają się źródłem siły, a przeklęta moc – nie przekleństwem, lecz darem, który trzeba nauczyć się rozumieć. W relacji z tajemniczym Julesem Nightlychem Avery pokazuje, że magia uczuć potrafi być groźniejsza niż każde zaklęcie. Ich spotkania iskrzą napięciem, ale pod tą elektrycznością kryje się coś głębszego – potrzeba zrozumienia i wolności, nawet jeśli trzeba za nią zapłacić wysoką cenę.
✨🕯️ Obok romansu rozkwitają tu inne relacje – pełne czułości i wsparcia. Przyjaźń Aurelii z Constance to przypomnienie, że w świecie zdominowanym przez rywalizację można znaleźć bezpieczną przestrzeń, w której słabość staje się siłą. Wątek rodzinny z kolei odsłania ciężar tradycji i oczekiwań, jakie niosą nazwiska takie jak Wycherley. Avery z lekkością balansuje między emocjami a przygodą, między światłem a cieniem, nie zapominając, że nawet w opowieści o czarodziejach najważniejsze jest człowieczeństwo.
ㅤ
✨🕯️ Styl Annaliese Avery zachwyca – jej język jest bogaty, a zarazem przystępny, nasycony rytmem i barwą epoki. Autorka potrafi tworzyć obrazy, które ożywają w wyobraźni – płonące runy, błysk sukni na parkiecie, cień zaklęcia unoszący się nad dłonią. To literatura młodzieżowa w najlepszym wydaniu: pełna pasji, przygody i refleksji o tym, jak trudno dorastać w świecie, który chce nas zamknąć w gotowych formach.
ㅤ
✨🕯️ Ród Wycherley to historia o odwadze bycia sobą, o miłości, która nie zna granic, i o magii, która płynie z akceptacji własnej inności. Annaliese Avery stworzyła powieść, która łączy w sobie romantyczne napięcie z filozoficzną głębią – opowieść o dojrzewaniu, lojalności i odwadze. To książka, po której zostaje w sercu iskra – mała, ale jasna, przypominająca, że każda moc, nawet ta najmroczniejsza, może być początkiem światła.
November 6, 2025
[współpraca komercyjna]
𝐑ó𝐝 𝐖𝐲𝐜𝐡𝐞𝐫𝐥𝐞𝐲 to bardzo luźna historia, której motywem przewodnim jest magia. Historia Aurelii była bardzo fajną odskocznią od typowych pozycji, które czytam na co dzień. Ta książka miała bardzo duży potencjał, który został według mnie nie do końca wykorzystany, wręcz odrobinę zmarnowany, jednak pomimo tego bawiłam się naprawdę dobrze podczas czytania.
Po opisie byłam bardzo dobrze nastawiona na tę lekturę oraz zaintrygowania nią, jednak z początku dość ciężko było mi się wgryźć w fabułę. Nie mogłam do końca wkręcić się w akcję, ale kiedy główni bohaterowie zaczęli spędzać ze sobą więcej czasu, poszło już dobrze.
Styl Annaliese Avery jest dość przyjemny. Autorka nie tworzy skomplikowanych zdań i bardzo prosto przedstawia stworzony przez siebie świat, przez co osoby, które na co dzień nie czytają fantastyki mogą na spokojnie sięgnąć po tę książkę i nie będą przytłoczone akcją.
Londyn to idealnie miejsce do osadzenia akcji. Bale, które autorka opisała w bardzo ciekawy sposób były niesamowitym urozmaiceniem historii, które dodały jej wyjątkowości, ponieważ nie były to takie zwykłe wydarzenia towarzyskie, a czyste magiczne rozgrywki. Samo wykreowanie świata nie było dość mocno skomplikowane czy rozbudowane, ale było wystarczające.
Główni bohaterowie zostali bardzo fajnie wykreowani. Uwielbiam w Aurelii to, że była sobą i się tego nie wstydziła. Pozwala sobie na bycie prawdziwą i nie ukrywa się pod maskami, przybierając inną twarz w zależności od dnia. Jej moc, choć inna niż wszystkie, nie jest czymś złym, tylko wyjątkowym oraz innym, co bohaterka próbuje zrozumieć oraz zaakceptować. Z początku postać Julesa średnio mi przypadła do gustu, ale im bliżej go poznawałam, tym bardziej go zaczynałam lubić, jednak moją ulubioną postacią z tej pozycji zdecydowanie była Aurelia Wycherley. Dodatkowo uwielbiałam jej relację z Constance, która pokazuje, że nawet w świecie pełnym rywalizacji można znaleźć kogoś bliskiego.
Coś, co dość mocno zaważyło na mojej ocenie, to wątek wrogów. W mojej opinii Aurelia i Jules nie byli tak do końca wrogami i osobiście bym ich tak nie przedstawiła. Jednak to jedna z niewielu rzeczy, która mi nie odpowiadały, ale ta była najbardziej znacząca. Poza tym nie mam tej książce wiele więcej do zarzucenia.
𝐑ó𝐝 𝐖𝐲𝐜𝐡𝐞𝐫𝐥𝐞𝐲 nie było najlepszą pozycją, jaką przeczytałam, ale nie żałuję czasu, który poświęciłam na przeczytanie jej. Jeśli szukacie czegoś luźnego do przeczytania wieczorem do herbaty, ta książka będzie idealna.
𝐑ó𝐝 𝐖𝐲𝐜𝐡𝐞𝐫𝐥𝐞𝐲 to bardzo luźna historia, której motywem przewodnim jest magia. Historia Aurelii była bardzo fajną odskocznią od typowych pozycji, które czytam na co dzień. Ta książka miała bardzo duży potencjał, który został według mnie nie do końca wykorzystany, wręcz odrobinę zmarnowany, jednak pomimo tego bawiłam się naprawdę dobrze podczas czytania.
Po opisie byłam bardzo dobrze nastawiona na tę lekturę oraz zaintrygowania nią, jednak z początku dość ciężko było mi się wgryźć w fabułę. Nie mogłam do końca wkręcić się w akcję, ale kiedy główni bohaterowie zaczęli spędzać ze sobą więcej czasu, poszło już dobrze.
Styl Annaliese Avery jest dość przyjemny. Autorka nie tworzy skomplikowanych zdań i bardzo prosto przedstawia stworzony przez siebie świat, przez co osoby, które na co dzień nie czytają fantastyki mogą na spokojnie sięgnąć po tę książkę i nie będą przytłoczone akcją.
Londyn to idealnie miejsce do osadzenia akcji. Bale, które autorka opisała w bardzo ciekawy sposób były niesamowitym urozmaiceniem historii, które dodały jej wyjątkowości, ponieważ nie były to takie zwykłe wydarzenia towarzyskie, a czyste magiczne rozgrywki. Samo wykreowanie świata nie było dość mocno skomplikowane czy rozbudowane, ale było wystarczające.
Główni bohaterowie zostali bardzo fajnie wykreowani. Uwielbiam w Aurelii to, że była sobą i się tego nie wstydziła. Pozwala sobie na bycie prawdziwą i nie ukrywa się pod maskami, przybierając inną twarz w zależności od dnia. Jej moc, choć inna niż wszystkie, nie jest czymś złym, tylko wyjątkowym oraz innym, co bohaterka próbuje zrozumieć oraz zaakceptować. Z początku postać Julesa średnio mi przypadła do gustu, ale im bliżej go poznawałam, tym bardziej go zaczynałam lubić, jednak moją ulubioną postacią z tej pozycji zdecydowanie była Aurelia Wycherley. Dodatkowo uwielbiałam jej relację z Constance, która pokazuje, że nawet w świecie pełnym rywalizacji można znaleźć kogoś bliskiego.
Coś, co dość mocno zaważyło na mojej ocenie, to wątek wrogów. W mojej opinii Aurelia i Jules nie byli tak do końca wrogami i osobiście bym ich tak nie przedstawiła. Jednak to jedna z niewielu rzeczy, która mi nie odpowiadały, ale ta była najbardziej znacząca. Poza tym nie mam tej książce wiele więcej do zarzucenia.
𝐑ó𝐝 𝐖𝐲𝐜𝐡𝐞𝐫𝐥𝐞𝐲 nie było najlepszą pozycją, jaką przeczytałam, ale nie żałuję czasu, który poświęciłam na przeczytanie jej. Jeśli szukacie czegoś luźnego do przeczytania wieczorem do herbaty, ta książka będzie idealna.
February 21, 2025
Rating: 3.5 ⭐
Seventeen-year-old Aurelia Wycherley is entering her debutante season, where witches must find a match to tether their magic to—or risk losing it. But Aurelia’s magic is cursed, making her an outcast. Her only hope? Jules Nightly, heir to a rival family, who is searching for a way to keep magic without tethering. Their forbidden alliance leads them through glamoured balls, perilous trials, and a dark mystery that threatens their families and the magical world itself.
Now, onto my thoughts!
The Wytcherleys instantly caught my attention with that gorgeous cover, and I’m happy to say the world inside is just as intriguing. The reimagined Regency London setting, infused with magical realism, is beautifully crafted, and the lore behind witch society is fascinating. Plus, the secondary characters? Absolutely adorable and just as easy to root for as the main ones.
Beyond the swoon-worthy romance (Jules Nightly, where do I find one?), there’s also a gripping, well-plotted mystery running through the story—a series of strange murders that kept me flipping pages. That balance of romance and intrigue was one of my favorite aspects.
Now, where it lost me a little: the romance itself. While sweet, it leaned a bit too much into insta-love for my taste. I wanted to feel the tension of their supposedly feuding families before seeing it melt into something deeper, but that transition happened a little too quickly. If you’re expecting a strong enemies-to-lovers dynamic, it doesn’t quite hit that mark.
And speaking of the murder mystery, while the setup was compelling, I unfortunately guessed the culprit too early, which took away some of the suspense. I wish there had been a few more twists to keep me on my toes!
That said, if you love historical fantasy with a mix of mystery, romance, and magical charm, this one is still worth picking up!
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the ARC!
Seventeen-year-old Aurelia Wycherley is entering her debutante season, where witches must find a match to tether their magic to—or risk losing it. But Aurelia’s magic is cursed, making her an outcast. Her only hope? Jules Nightly, heir to a rival family, who is searching for a way to keep magic without tethering. Their forbidden alliance leads them through glamoured balls, perilous trials, and a dark mystery that threatens their families and the magical world itself.
Now, onto my thoughts!
The Wytcherleys instantly caught my attention with that gorgeous cover, and I’m happy to say the world inside is just as intriguing. The reimagined Regency London setting, infused with magical realism, is beautifully crafted, and the lore behind witch society is fascinating. Plus, the secondary characters? Absolutely adorable and just as easy to root for as the main ones.
Beyond the swoon-worthy romance (Jules Nightly, where do I find one?), there’s also a gripping, well-plotted mystery running through the story—a series of strange murders that kept me flipping pages. That balance of romance and intrigue was one of my favorite aspects.
Now, where it lost me a little: the romance itself. While sweet, it leaned a bit too much into insta-love for my taste. I wanted to feel the tension of their supposedly feuding families before seeing it melt into something deeper, but that transition happened a little too quickly. If you’re expecting a strong enemies-to-lovers dynamic, it doesn’t quite hit that mark.
And speaking of the murder mystery, while the setup was compelling, I unfortunately guessed the culprit too early, which took away some of the suspense. I wish there had been a few more twists to keep me on my toes!
That said, if you love historical fantasy with a mix of mystery, romance, and magical charm, this one is still worth picking up!
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the ARC!
October 6, 2025
Thank you to Nina Douglas for sending me The Wycherleys by Annaliese Avery to review.
Debutante season is here and Aurelia Wycherley is excited to be able to take part in the glamorous balls and trials and hopefully find a tether for her magic. But there’s just one problem, her magic is cursed and no witch will ever want to tether with her.
Enter Jules Nightly, arrogant, rude and annoyingly handsome, he has no problem offering to help Aurelia because he may just be her only hope in saving her magic. But what began as a secret alliance may well turn into a forbidden romance…with consequences.
I really enjoyed this book and am so glad there is a second one coming. Think Bridgerton but with witchy vibes and lots of magic.
The use of magic in the story is really cool and there is an abundance of it. It’s a proper witch read with covens and history. I’ve read plenty of witchy books but never like this. It really drew me in.
I love Aurelia and Jules, they have such a fun dynamic and really bounce off each other.
The overall story is pretty interesting and I hope we get to delve more into the history in book 2.
Overall this was a great read that I highly recommend. Perfect for witchy/spooky season and Autumn too as it starts out in Autumn right up to Winters end. So a bit of cosiness too.
Debutante season is here and Aurelia Wycherley is excited to be able to take part in the glamorous balls and trials and hopefully find a tether for her magic. But there’s just one problem, her magic is cursed and no witch will ever want to tether with her.
Enter Jules Nightly, arrogant, rude and annoyingly handsome, he has no problem offering to help Aurelia because he may just be her only hope in saving her magic. But what began as a secret alliance may well turn into a forbidden romance…with consequences.
I really enjoyed this book and am so glad there is a second one coming. Think Bridgerton but with witchy vibes and lots of magic.
The use of magic in the story is really cool and there is an abundance of it. It’s a proper witch read with covens and history. I’ve read plenty of witchy books but never like this. It really drew me in.
I love Aurelia and Jules, they have such a fun dynamic and really bounce off each other.
The overall story is pretty interesting and I hope we get to delve more into the history in book 2.
Overall this was a great read that I highly recommend. Perfect for witchy/spooky season and Autumn too as it starts out in Autumn right up to Winters end. So a bit of cosiness too.
April 7, 2025
The Wycherleys by Annaliese Avery
I have been struggling to read and enjoy anything since I finished Sunrise on the Reaping but this one managed to get through to me!
A YA Romantasy, about a young girl whose magic is cursed meaning she cannot tether to another witch and will loose her magic in 3 years times. The boy from her rival family (the family who cursed hers years ago) is looking for a way to keep magic without finding a tether, perhaps they will be able to help eachother solve this mystery. And of course maybe some romance and balls will get in the way of their mission.
Set In A debutante background this was super fun, the exact fun teen romance vibes i wanted. Super wholesome couples and you will be rooting from them from the get go. It has mystery and intrigue within the plot and I loved the relationships in this story, the friendships and also the romances.
I really enjoyed this story and if a sequel is planned, i will be picking up.
Thank you for an Advance reader copies in exchange for an honest review
November 3, 2025
„Ród Wycherley” to powieść fantastyczna skierowana do młodzieży. Znajdziecie w niej silną główną bohaterkę, która dopiero uczy się swojej magii, choć wie, że za sprawą klątwy niedługo straci ją na zawsze. Z tego powodu desperacko szuka sposobu, by zatrzymać swoje moce. W poszukiwaniach towarzyszy jej Jules Nightly – rodzinny wróg, który z kolei chce uratować swoją siostrę. A całość dzieje się w XIX wieku!
Nie spodziewałam się, że ta książka aż tak przypadnie mi do gustu. Mimo że liczy około 450 stron, przeczytałam ją naprawdę szybko, a za każdym razem, gdy musiałam ją odłożyć, robiłam to z żalem.
Oczywiście dostrzegam pewne wady – między innymi zbyt pospiesznie poprowadzony wątek miłosny oraz wrażenie, że nie wszystkie wątki zostały domknięte. Jednak całość jest słodka, urocza i zapewnia świetną rozrywkę. Z tego, co wiem, ma powstać drugi tom, który być może uporządkuje otwarte kwestie, więc wcale mnie to nie zniechęca – na pewno po niego sięgnę.
Silna magia, mroczne odkrycia, morderstwa, a do tego latające miotły? Kocham tę książkę. Czytajcie, bo naprawdę warto – jest zabawna, pełna emocji i akcji.
PS. Kocham Julesa… he’s so cute 🥰
Nie spodziewałam się, że ta książka aż tak przypadnie mi do gustu. Mimo że liczy około 450 stron, przeczytałam ją naprawdę szybko, a za każdym razem, gdy musiałam ją odłożyć, robiłam to z żalem.
Oczywiście dostrzegam pewne wady – między innymi zbyt pospiesznie poprowadzony wątek miłosny oraz wrażenie, że nie wszystkie wątki zostały domknięte. Jednak całość jest słodka, urocza i zapewnia świetną rozrywkę. Z tego, co wiem, ma powstać drugi tom, który być może uporządkuje otwarte kwestie, więc wcale mnie to nie zniechęca – na pewno po niego sięgnę.
Silna magia, mroczne odkrycia, morderstwa, a do tego latające miotły? Kocham tę książkę. Czytajcie, bo naprawdę warto – jest zabawna, pełna emocji i akcji.
PS. Kocham Julesa… he’s so cute 🥰
May 1, 2025
Thank you to the publisher for providing me with a copy!
It’s YA Bridgerton with witches, and it’s a lot of fun! I really liked the murder mystery plotline going on in the background, it kept me on my toes, and I enjoyed the worldbuilding, although I wish we’d gotten a bit more history on the different Ages of witches that kept being brought up. The characters are likeable, although I preferred the side characters to the main characters. I also felt like the dialogue was a bit stiff at times - maybe it was meant to reflect the time period, but it ended up just feeling very stilted.
It’s YA Bridgerton with witches, and it’s a lot of fun! I really liked the murder mystery plotline going on in the background, it kept me on my toes, and I enjoyed the worldbuilding, although I wish we’d gotten a bit more history on the different Ages of witches that kept being brought up. The characters are likeable, although I preferred the side characters to the main characters. I also felt like the dialogue was a bit stiff at times - maybe it was meant to reflect the time period, but it ended up just feeling very stilted.
May 13, 2025
This is pretty much YA Bridgerton with witches but instead of finding a love match they must match with a fellow witch to tether their magic. Aurelia is entering her debutante year but her magic is cursed. In order to try and keep her magic, she forms an alliance with a boy from the rival family responsible for her family’s curse.
I had such a great time with this book, it was romantic, exciting and overall so much fun. I’m looking forward to the sequel and hope we don’t have to wait too long!
I had such a great time with this book, it was romantic, exciting and overall so much fun. I’m looking forward to the sequel and hope we don’t have to wait too long!
April 16, 2025
this was very fun to read and a very good magical murder mystery too!! the characters were wonderful, and the slow burn romance was *chefs kiss*
June 16, 2025
DNF
Everthing is cringe
Everthing is cringe
October 1, 2025
Nightly 🫶🥹
October 5, 2025
surprisingly ate this up
May 2, 2025
Exactly what it says on the tin, such a quick easy YA read and really loved it!
May 17, 2025
ahh ok this was so much fun!
It reminds me of The Rose Bargain but with witches instead of fae. Debutantes (both male and female) are presented when they're given their magic, undertake trials, and seek out a tether - rather than a romantic interest - to latch on to which elevates their power. No tether? No more magic.
I love the concept!
The Wycherley's were cursed many moons ago and the women in the family are affected (because of course they are) so poor Aurelia is a cursed outcast. Nobody wants anything to do with her. Luckily she has her best friend Constance (such a sweetheart) and her brother Vaughn.
Not forgetting Jules Nightly ✨
The relationship between Jules and Aurelia was deeply romantic 🌹 they felt like a hybrid of Enola Holmes/Tewksbury and Roman/Iris.
This story has forbidden love, betrayal, family secrets, century-old rivalries, witchcraft, love letters, murder mysteries, immense power and the strong bonds of friendship and family ❤️
What I love the most about this is that it can be read as a standalone. The plot was resolved but there's an open-ended part that can continue in the sequel. I hate finishing a book and not realising it's a sequel. I keep reading unfinished stories!
Highly recommend! I'm definitely picking up the sequel :)
It reminds me of The Rose Bargain but with witches instead of fae. Debutantes (both male and female) are presented when they're given their magic, undertake trials, and seek out a tether - rather than a romantic interest - to latch on to which elevates their power. No tether? No more magic.
I love the concept!
The Wycherley's were cursed many moons ago and the women in the family are affected (because of course they are) so poor Aurelia is a cursed outcast. Nobody wants anything to do with her. Luckily she has her best friend Constance (such a sweetheart) and her brother Vaughn.
Not forgetting Jules Nightly ✨
The relationship between Jules and Aurelia was deeply romantic 🌹 they felt like a hybrid of Enola Holmes/Tewksbury and Roman/Iris.
This story has forbidden love, betrayal, family secrets, century-old rivalries, witchcraft, love letters, murder mysteries, immense power and the strong bonds of friendship and family ❤️
What I love the most about this is that it can be read as a standalone. The plot was resolved but there's an open-ended part that can continue in the sequel. I hate finishing a book and not realising it's a sequel. I keep reading unfinished stories!
Highly recommend! I'm definitely picking up the sequel :)
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