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Eldrenoire
A cursed queen. A sentient castle. A slow-burn fantasy where survival is the fiercest kind of romance.
Seven years ago, Queen Améliane Morvenne was betrayed. Her kingdom stolen. Her court imprisoned. Her body cursed to shift. Trapped inside Eldrenoire—a magical, gilded prison hidden by mist—she became more myth than monarch. But memory is rebellion, and some names refuse to be forgotten.
When a hunted fugitive stumbles through the castle's gate, he carries with him a truth powerful enough to unravel the curse—or doom them all. As forgotten magic stirs and dangerous secrets rise, Améliane must lead her cursed court through a gauntlet of grief, love, and impossible choices.
But escape demands more than bravery.
The gate opens only for those willing to face the mirror—and survive what they see.
Eldrenoire is a gothic romantic fantasy inspired by the French fairytale The White Cat by Madam d'Aulnoy. Perfect for fans of slow-burn romance, atmospheric magic, and morally complex queens.
The court was cursed.
The queen was caged.
But neither were broken.
Seven years ago, Queen Améliane Morvenne was betrayed. Her kingdom stolen. Her court imprisoned. Her body cursed to shift. Trapped inside Eldrenoire—a magical, gilded prison hidden by mist—she became more myth than monarch. But memory is rebellion, and some names refuse to be forgotten.
When a hunted fugitive stumbles through the castle's gate, he carries with him a truth powerful enough to unravel the curse—or doom them all. As forgotten magic stirs and dangerous secrets rise, Améliane must lead her cursed court through a gauntlet of grief, love, and impossible choices.
But escape demands more than bravery.
The gate opens only for those willing to face the mirror—and survive what they see.
Eldrenoire is a gothic romantic fantasy inspired by the French fairytale The White Cat by Madam d'Aulnoy. Perfect for fans of slow-burn romance, atmospheric magic, and morally complex queens.
The court was cursed.
The queen was caged.
But neither were broken.
- GenresFantasy
430 pages, Kindle Edition
Published August 5, 2025
48 people are currently reading
255 people want to read
About the author
Elle Wildes
1 book31 followersElle Wildes writes romantasy for grown women—stories woven with longing, betrayal, second chances, and the kind of slow-burning magic that leaves a mark. Her worlds are steeped in enchantment and consequence, ruled by women who refuse to be tamed and men who are more haunted than heroic.
A lifelong book lover and former English teacher, Elle holds a bachelor’s degree in education, a master’s in curriculum and instruction, and is currently completing her doctorate in educational leadership. She now uses everything she learned about stories, systems, and human nature to craft layered fantasy worlds full of power shifts, emotional reckoning, and just enough kissing to count.
When she’s not writing, Elle can be found haunting the fantasy aisle of her local bookstore, making moodboards she swears aren’t procrastination, or walking the coastline with a plot twist in her earbuds.
She writes for the readers who’ve lived through their own battles and still believe in magic.
A lifelong book lover and former English teacher, Elle holds a bachelor’s degree in education, a master’s in curriculum and instruction, and is currently completing her doctorate in educational leadership. She now uses everything she learned about stories, systems, and human nature to craft layered fantasy worlds full of power shifts, emotional reckoning, and just enough kissing to count.
When she’s not writing, Elle can be found haunting the fantasy aisle of her local bookstore, making moodboards she swears aren’t procrastination, or walking the coastline with a plot twist in her earbuds.
She writes for the readers who’ve lived through their own battles and still believe in magic.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 45 reviews
August 8, 2025
I’ve now read Eldrenoire twice — and both times, I was completely swept away. The atmosphere is dark and dreamlike, the kind that settles into your bones and lingers long after you’ve closed the book. From the first chapter to the last, I was fully immersed in its rich emotion and quiet tension. Somehow, the second time through felt even more powerful.
What stuck with me most is how deeply this story made me feel. It’s not just fantasy — it’s layered, intimate, and heavy with longing, sacrifice, and strength.
Améliane is a character who stays with you. She’s calm and commanding on the outside, but you can feel the storm she hides beneath the surface. She’s holding so much — fear, responsibility, pain — and still, she continues on. Her strength isn’t loud, but it’s deeply felt. I saw pieces of myself in her, and I admired her more with every page.
And Mathieu... his quiet persistence made my heart ache. The way he listens, the way he refuses to walk away — even when things feel hopeless — added such a beautiful softness to the story. His support never felt forced or performative; it was steady and honest. The slow, subtle way he and Améliane begin to trust each other is one of the most rewarding parts of the book.
Laurant’s storyline hit unexpectedly hard. There’s a sorrow there that crept in slowly and took hold in a quiet, heartbreaking way.
What I love most about Eldrenoire is how it balances emotion and mystery with such care. Every moment feels deliberate, every interaction charged with something deeper. The story asks you to be patient, to pay attention — and it rewards you for it.
If you love emotionally rich stories with strong but vulnerable women, slow-burn tension, and just a touch of the uncanny, this book will pull you in. It’s haunting, tender, and powerful — and I already know I’ll return to it again.
What stuck with me most is how deeply this story made me feel. It’s not just fantasy — it’s layered, intimate, and heavy with longing, sacrifice, and strength.
Améliane is a character who stays with you. She’s calm and commanding on the outside, but you can feel the storm she hides beneath the surface. She’s holding so much — fear, responsibility, pain — and still, she continues on. Her strength isn’t loud, but it’s deeply felt. I saw pieces of myself in her, and I admired her more with every page.
And Mathieu... his quiet persistence made my heart ache. The way he listens, the way he refuses to walk away — even when things feel hopeless — added such a beautiful softness to the story. His support never felt forced or performative; it was steady and honest. The slow, subtle way he and Améliane begin to trust each other is one of the most rewarding parts of the book.
Laurant’s storyline hit unexpectedly hard. There’s a sorrow there that crept in slowly and took hold in a quiet, heartbreaking way.
What I love most about Eldrenoire is how it balances emotion and mystery with such care. Every moment feels deliberate, every interaction charged with something deeper. The story asks you to be patient, to pay attention — and it rewards you for it.
If you love emotionally rich stories with strong but vulnerable women, slow-burn tension, and just a touch of the uncanny, this book will pull you in. It’s haunting, tender, and powerful — and I already know I’ll return to it again.
June 4, 2025
As an ARC reader, I appreciate the opportunity to dive into Eldrenoire. The concept behind the story has real potential—there’s clearly a rich world and deeper plot under the surface. That said, I struggled with the execution.
The book starts abruptly, almost as if I missed a prologue or an earlier volume. I found myself confused in the opening chapters, which introduced too many characters at once without giving them time to develop. As a result, it was hard to get invested in anyone early on.
The pacing was uneven—chapters felt overly long, and much of the content felt repetitive. I often found myself skimming paragraphs because the same point or emotion was being reworded multiple times. While the storyline itself has interesting elements, the way it’s presented felt more like a stream of consciousness than a fully structured narrative.
With some tightening of the prose, clearer character arcs, and more focused world-building, Eldrenoire could become something much stronger. But as it stands now, it left me feeling disconnected and disengaged.
September 3, 2025
Elle Wildes wrote such a beautiful story with Eldrenoire. Each page elicitated imagery in which I felt as if I were watching each scene occur in real life. I felt so many emotions and felt for each significant character, as well as some smaller side characters. The story is different and the main characters are my age!! I am looking forward to book 2 to jump back in to this magical place and follow the characters. 🥰
September 21, 2025
the storyline itself is interesting, however not executed the best in my opinion. struggled through some parts - felt like it was making circles. read for book club
August 5, 2025
⭐️⭐️ // A beautifully written concept that ultimately fell flat
I hate giving this two stars, but I have to be honest. This book had so much potential, and in some ways, it really shines—but unfortunately, the overall execution didn’t land for me.
Let’s start with what did work: the writing itself. The prose is strong, polished, and clearly comes from someone with a professional background in storytelling. It didn’t read like a debut in terms of grammar or sentence structure—this author has talent, and I’d absolutely read something else from them in the future. The premise, too, was compelling—a Beauty and the Beast-style curse in a mysterious kingdom? That’s exactly the kind of setup I’m drawn to.
But the rest… was kind of a mess.
The pacing was painfully slow—possibly the slowest book I’ve read this year. It felt like so much of the content was filler, with long stretches of internal thought or repetition that didn’t push the plot forward. The world itself, while intriguing on the surface, didn’t make a lot of sense once you looked closer. The rules of the curse were inconsistent, the shifting into animal forms had no real narrative purpose, and the overall magical system lacked clarity or depth.
I wanted to love the female main character, but I couldn’t connect with her choices—particularly the decision to stay queen in a cursed kingdom, keeping dozens (or hundreds?) of people trapped with her for eight years. There was no real explanation for why anyone remained loyal to her other than “she’s royal,” which wasn’t enough for me.
And unfortunately, the romance—the heart of what I thought would be a swoony, yearning love story—just didn’t land. There was no tension, no spark, and barely any interaction between the two leads before they were suddenly a thing. I kept waiting for chemistry that never arrived.
The ending teased a shift into a completely new world for book two, but after struggling to invest in this one, I’m not motivated to continue the series.
All in all, it’s a solid debut in terms of style, and the author clearly has potential. But this book needed tighter pacing, more character development, a clearer world-building foundation, and a romance that actually made me feel something. Sadly, it missed the mark for me—but I’ll be keeping an eye on what this author does next.
I hate giving this two stars, but I have to be honest. This book had so much potential, and in some ways, it really shines—but unfortunately, the overall execution didn’t land for me.
Let’s start with what did work: the writing itself. The prose is strong, polished, and clearly comes from someone with a professional background in storytelling. It didn’t read like a debut in terms of grammar or sentence structure—this author has talent, and I’d absolutely read something else from them in the future. The premise, too, was compelling—a Beauty and the Beast-style curse in a mysterious kingdom? That’s exactly the kind of setup I’m drawn to.
But the rest… was kind of a mess.
The pacing was painfully slow—possibly the slowest book I’ve read this year. It felt like so much of the content was filler, with long stretches of internal thought or repetition that didn’t push the plot forward. The world itself, while intriguing on the surface, didn’t make a lot of sense once you looked closer. The rules of the curse were inconsistent, the shifting into animal forms had no real narrative purpose, and the overall magical system lacked clarity or depth.
I wanted to love the female main character, but I couldn’t connect with her choices—particularly the decision to stay queen in a cursed kingdom, keeping dozens (or hundreds?) of people trapped with her for eight years. There was no real explanation for why anyone remained loyal to her other than “she’s royal,” which wasn’t enough for me.
And unfortunately, the romance—the heart of what I thought would be a swoony, yearning love story—just didn’t land. There was no tension, no spark, and barely any interaction between the two leads before they were suddenly a thing. I kept waiting for chemistry that never arrived.
The ending teased a shift into a completely new world for book two, but after struggling to invest in this one, I’m not motivated to continue the series.
All in all, it’s a solid debut in terms of style, and the author clearly has potential. But this book needed tighter pacing, more character development, a clearer world-building foundation, and a romance that actually made me feel something. Sadly, it missed the mark for me—but I’ll be keeping an eye on what this author does next.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 2, 2025
4.5 STARS
What piqued my interest was the age of the FMC and MMC. They’re not your typical 20somethings. They’re in their 40s and they actually age with time. They’re not ageless immortals. As an older reader of fantasy and romance it is nice to read a story where the main characters are your age.
A gothic fantasy / romance - a queen (Ameliane) who was betrayed and had her kingdom stolen. She was banished or cursed to be trapped in a magical sentient castle called Eldrenoire. She’s been trapped there for years forgotten by her people and the world.
The MMC (Matthieu) is a man on the run who just so happens to stumble upon Eldrenoire’s gates. Eldrenoire lets him in and he’s now stuck with the forgotten queen and her court.
The castle holds many secrets including the way to help break the curse and escape.
This castle is moody/temperamental- it decides where it will allow you to wander based on your mood or intentions. The halls shift, doors appear and disappear, rooms that have been hidden for years are found open to enter. If you were being too nosy or not where you should be the castle would keep you in an endless loop through its halls that could last hours!
I LOVED the banter between Matthieu and Ameliane! The flirting was top tier. It wasn’t cringey in any way. I often caught myself smiling while reading through the book. This is a slooooooow burn, in a good way! Elle Wildes did a magnificent job in growing the relationship between Ameliane and Mathieu. It wasn’t insta-love. They truly spent time together. Getting to know each other. Listening, learning, growing. It was beautiful and sweet.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book and I can’t wait for the next. I 100% recommend Eldrenoire!
What piqued my interest was the age of the FMC and MMC. They’re not your typical 20somethings. They’re in their 40s and they actually age with time. They’re not ageless immortals. As an older reader of fantasy and romance it is nice to read a story where the main characters are your age.
A gothic fantasy / romance - a queen (Ameliane) who was betrayed and had her kingdom stolen. She was banished or cursed to be trapped in a magical sentient castle called Eldrenoire. She’s been trapped there for years forgotten by her people and the world.
The MMC (Matthieu) is a man on the run who just so happens to stumble upon Eldrenoire’s gates. Eldrenoire lets him in and he’s now stuck with the forgotten queen and her court.
The castle holds many secrets including the way to help break the curse and escape.
This castle is moody/temperamental- it decides where it will allow you to wander based on your mood or intentions. The halls shift, doors appear and disappear, rooms that have been hidden for years are found open to enter. If you were being too nosy or not where you should be the castle would keep you in an endless loop through its halls that could last hours!
I LOVED the banter between Matthieu and Ameliane! The flirting was top tier. It wasn’t cringey in any way. I often caught myself smiling while reading through the book. This is a slooooooow burn, in a good way! Elle Wildes did a magnificent job in growing the relationship between Ameliane and Mathieu. It wasn’t insta-love. They truly spent time together. Getting to know each other. Listening, learning, growing. It was beautiful and sweet.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book and I can’t wait for the next. I 100% recommend Eldrenoire!
June 27, 2025
ARC Review. This story was so hauntingly beautiful and heartbreaking yet it was also magical and refreshing.
The magic, the plot and the story was so extraordinarily unique. I didn’t want to stop reading. For a 600 page book, I still wanted more, never wanted the story to end.
In this book we have our FMC Améliane, who was cursed and imprisoned in a sentient castle that has a mind of its own after being betrayed and left to be forgotten with her court and her most loyal people. After seven years trapped in a magical gilded castle that seems to be alive, the castle decided to let a stranger in through its gates, a stranger who is running from his own past and demons. As time passes they soon realize he may be their salvation or damnation. To escape this magical castle, they must face the mirror, where nothing matters but the truth. Truth is power, but are they willing to face their own truths?
This story was emotional, haunting, heartbreaking and yet also beautiful and full of the most loyal and devoted type of love.
Praise to Elle Wildes for writing a book with a strong, fierce and loyal heroine who doesn’t need to be saved and is a loyal to the end.
If you enjoy gothic fantasy, romantasy, with magic, slow burn, morally complex characters, a story that is haunting and beautiful with a strong, fierce and loyal FMC, then this needs to be in your TBR.
Thank you to Elle Wildes for an amazing story and for the opportunity to read this book. I cannot wait for book 2!!
The magic, the plot and the story was so extraordinarily unique. I didn’t want to stop reading. For a 600 page book, I still wanted more, never wanted the story to end.
In this book we have our FMC Améliane, who was cursed and imprisoned in a sentient castle that has a mind of its own after being betrayed and left to be forgotten with her court and her most loyal people. After seven years trapped in a magical gilded castle that seems to be alive, the castle decided to let a stranger in through its gates, a stranger who is running from his own past and demons. As time passes they soon realize he may be their salvation or damnation. To escape this magical castle, they must face the mirror, where nothing matters but the truth. Truth is power, but are they willing to face their own truths?
This story was emotional, haunting, heartbreaking and yet also beautiful and full of the most loyal and devoted type of love.
Praise to Elle Wildes for writing a book with a strong, fierce and loyal heroine who doesn’t need to be saved and is a loyal to the end.
If you enjoy gothic fantasy, romantasy, with magic, slow burn, morally complex characters, a story that is haunting and beautiful with a strong, fierce and loyal FMC, then this needs to be in your TBR.
Thank you to Elle Wildes for an amazing story and for the opportunity to read this book. I cannot wait for book 2!!
July 5, 2025
Eldrenoire is a hauntingly beautiful gothic romantsy that sinks its claws in from the very first page and never lets go. Elle Wildes crafts a dark, lyrical fairy tale for grown women—one filled with aching loneliness, lost power, and the slow, tender rekindling of hope.
At its heart is a cursed queen trapped in a hidden castle, her kingdom stolen and her court forgotten. When a mysterious man stumbles into her prison, the threads of a long-bound spell begin to loosen—and with them, something deeply human begins to awaken in both of them. What follows is a gorgeously written slow-burn romance between two mature characters (in their 40s!), a rare and refreshing choice that adds weight and realism to every shared glance and whispered word.
There’s a quiet sensuality to the prose, with just the right amount of spice to stir the blood without overshadowing the emotional depth. Every page is soaked in atmosphere—fog-laced forests, flickering candlelight, and the ever-present ache of longing.
I devoured this book and savored it at the same time. It’s a story of love, healing, and reclamation told with elegance and care. I recommend Eldrenoire to anyone craving romance with heart, fantasy with grit, and characters who have truly lived.
Thank you so much for letting me be a part of the magic with this ARC read. Cannot wait for Book 2! Loved 🖤
At its heart is a cursed queen trapped in a hidden castle, her kingdom stolen and her court forgotten. When a mysterious man stumbles into her prison, the threads of a long-bound spell begin to loosen—and with them, something deeply human begins to awaken in both of them. What follows is a gorgeously written slow-burn romance between two mature characters (in their 40s!), a rare and refreshing choice that adds weight and realism to every shared glance and whispered word.
There’s a quiet sensuality to the prose, with just the right amount of spice to stir the blood without overshadowing the emotional depth. Every page is soaked in atmosphere—fog-laced forests, flickering candlelight, and the ever-present ache of longing.
I devoured this book and savored it at the same time. It’s a story of love, healing, and reclamation told with elegance and care. I recommend Eldrenoire to anyone craving romance with heart, fantasy with grit, and characters who have truly lived.
Thank you so much for letting me be a part of the magic with this ARC read. Cannot wait for Book 2! Loved 🖤
July 7, 2025
Where to start. I finished Eldrenoire and it left me a little emotional that I had to take a moment to gather my thoughts and feelings.
For me this beautiful world that was crafted by Seniorita Wildes was breathtaking. I loved how her storytelling brought Eldrenoire alive in my mind. I was able to connect with characters at a deeper level since she wrote them with a maturity level and age I can relate too.
But she didn’t stop there, she …:
✨ Added multiple amazing storylines that clash and beautifully blend together in a unique magical reality that is forgotten/remembered at the same time.
✨ Created a whole cast (not just one or a couple) of complex characters for Eldernoire from the very beginning and continue to evolve as the story progresses
✨ Weaved and slowly cultivated a romance story that leaves you wanting and yearning just from the chemistry and loyalty alone
Eldrenoire is a book that if you are open to it, will take your imagination to a magical world of possibilities, heartbreaks, unexpected twist and turns, and tug at your sense of adventure. So be brave enough to let go and immerse yourself in such a unique world and I promise Eldrenoire won’t let you go until the last word of the page is read.
For me this beautiful world that was crafted by Seniorita Wildes was breathtaking. I loved how her storytelling brought Eldrenoire alive in my mind. I was able to connect with characters at a deeper level since she wrote them with a maturity level and age I can relate too.
But she didn’t stop there, she …:
✨ Added multiple amazing storylines that clash and beautifully blend together in a unique magical reality that is forgotten/remembered at the same time.
✨ Created a whole cast (not just one or a couple) of complex characters for Eldernoire from the very beginning and continue to evolve as the story progresses
✨ Weaved and slowly cultivated a romance story that leaves you wanting and yearning just from the chemistry and loyalty alone
Eldrenoire is a book that if you are open to it, will take your imagination to a magical world of possibilities, heartbreaks, unexpected twist and turns, and tug at your sense of adventure. So be brave enough to let go and immerse yourself in such a unique world and I promise Eldrenoire won’t let you go until the last word of the page is read.
June 18, 2025
Elle Wildes delivers a breathtaking debut with Eldrionire, a sweeping epic that blends high fantasy, forbidden magic, and a fierce heroine caught between duty and destiny. From the first page, the world-building grips you with its lyrical prose and rich, immersive landscapes. Wildes crafts a realm that feels ancient and alive, where every creature, castle, and custom pulses with history and purpose.
At the heart of it all is a protagonist you can’t help but root for—resilient, raw, and wonderfully flawed. Her journey is one of power and sacrifice, laced with mystery, heartbreak, and just enough slow-burn tension to keep you turning the pages long after midnight. The supporting cast is equally magnetic—especially a certain morally gray companion who steals scenes and maybe your heart.
What sets Eldrionire apart is its elegant balance between lush storytelling and razor-sharp pacing. Wildes doesn’t just build a fantasy world—she breathes life into it. And just when you think you know where it’s all going, she turns the tables and leaves your jaw on the floor.
Eldrionire is not just a story—it’s a storm. Beautifully written, emotionally charged, and utterly unforgettable.
At the heart of it all is a protagonist you can’t help but root for—resilient, raw, and wonderfully flawed. Her journey is one of power and sacrifice, laced with mystery, heartbreak, and just enough slow-burn tension to keep you turning the pages long after midnight. The supporting cast is equally magnetic—especially a certain morally gray companion who steals scenes and maybe your heart.
What sets Eldrionire apart is its elegant balance between lush storytelling and razor-sharp pacing. Wildes doesn’t just build a fantasy world—she breathes life into it. And just when you think you know where it’s all going, she turns the tables and leaves your jaw on the floor.
Eldrionire is not just a story—it’s a storm. Beautifully written, emotionally charged, and utterly unforgettable.
August 26, 2025
Eldrenoire is the name of the castle that has been magically forgotten, tucked away from the world. Inside, is a lost Queen and her court. Mathieu is on the run at the beginning of the story, he stumbles inside the gates of Elrenoire. Eldrenoire does not let anyone who enters, leave. He is introduced to Ameliane - the Queen, and the rest of her court. As the story progresses, Mathieu tries to uncover the way to break the magic holding them inside the castle. Outside the castle, the King is trying to run things on his own and a rebellion is rising to find the lost Queen.
What I liked best about this book was the way Eldrenoire would play with Mathieu. Doors would open that shouldn't. Hallways would stretch on forever. Doors would keep opening to the same place. It was maddening at times watching him struggle to get where he wanted to go.
The other fun part about this book was the shifting. The Queen and her court were able to shift into animal forms when they wanted to.
At times this did drag a bit but overall I enjoyed it and will be back to read the next book in this series.
What I liked best about this book was the way Eldrenoire would play with Mathieu. Doors would open that shouldn't. Hallways would stretch on forever. Doors would keep opening to the same place. It was maddening at times watching him struggle to get where he wanted to go.
The other fun part about this book was the shifting. The Queen and her court were able to shift into animal forms when they wanted to.
At times this did drag a bit but overall I enjoyed it and will be back to read the next book in this series.
June 10, 2025
I just finished Eldrenoire and I can’t stop thinking about it.
This book was unlike anything I’ve read in a long time—rich, atmospheric, and gorgeously written. The magic system is haunting and original. Imagine a sentient, crumbling castle full of cursed shapeshifters, secrets behind every door, and a queen who is more ghost than woman- then drop in a war-weary fugitive with secrets of his own. I was hooked.
Améliane and Mathieu stole my heart. Their dynamic felt so grown, so layered. It’s rare to find a romantic fantasy with characters in their late 30s and 40s that doesn’t feel like a second-chance cliché—but Eldrenoire absolutely nailed it. Their chemistry had a slow-burn ache that felt earned and real. And don’t get me started on the side characters. Laurent, Élodie, Bastian… even the castle itself felt like a living, breathing thing.
I have only ever rated one book (series) five-stars because it quite literally ruined me (Throne of Glass!). That said, Eldrenoire came close. Real close. I highlighted so many lines I want to tattoo on my soul. I can’t wait for Book Two.
This book was unlike anything I’ve read in a long time—rich, atmospheric, and gorgeously written. The magic system is haunting and original. Imagine a sentient, crumbling castle full of cursed shapeshifters, secrets behind every door, and a queen who is more ghost than woman- then drop in a war-weary fugitive with secrets of his own. I was hooked.
Améliane and Mathieu stole my heart. Their dynamic felt so grown, so layered. It’s rare to find a romantic fantasy with characters in their late 30s and 40s that doesn’t feel like a second-chance cliché—but Eldrenoire absolutely nailed it. Their chemistry had a slow-burn ache that felt earned and real. And don’t get me started on the side characters. Laurent, Élodie, Bastian… even the castle itself felt like a living, breathing thing.
I have only ever rated one book (series) five-stars because it quite literally ruined me (Throne of Glass!). That said, Eldrenoire came close. Real close. I highlighted so many lines I want to tattoo on my soul. I can’t wait for Book Two.
October 5, 2025
Such a good book!! I think that fans of Martin, Yarros or Maas will really love this book. This is such a powerful start to what will hopefully turn into the next big epic fantasy series to come out. The author is an amazing storyteller. Her writing style is beautiful. She has an ability to write in such a way that you can almost swear that you can hear, taste, smell, see, and feel what it is she's describing. I loved that the FMC & MMC were older. I don't know if she ever specifically states their age, but I got the sense that they were mid-late 30s-ish. And as someone in her 40s, I was all for that! I don't mind young heartthrobs, but give me a man that's been around the block a few times, and a woman who has made enough mistakes in her life to know who she is and what she stands for. I can not wait for the next book to come out!! If you like slow burns, with gentle teasing banter between two strong characters, you will love this book.
See my full review here: https://deviantangelreads.com/2025/10...
See my full review here: https://deviantangelreads.com/2025/10...
January 14, 2026
A haunting, exquisitely crafted tale of betrayal, transformation, and slow burning magic. Elle Wildes’s Eldrenoire is more than a fantasy it’s a gothic dream spun into prose, where every page thrums with atmosphere, longing, and quiet power.
At its heart is Queen Améliane Morvenne, a queen cursed, betrayed, and caged within a sentient castle that breathes with memory and magic. Wildes writes her with such emotional precision and depth that you feel every shift in her soul. This is not a story of easy rescue, but of profound reclamation a slow burn journey where love is discovered not in grand gestures, but in whispered truths and shared survival.
Richly imagined and irresistibly immersive, Eldrenoire is for readers who crave fantasy with a soul, romance with teeth, and heroines who rise from ruin not through swords, but through sheer, breathtaking will. Wildes has created something truly special here: a world that feels mythic, a heart that feels real, and a story that lingers like mist long after you’ve turned the final page. A stunning, unforgettable read.
At its heart is Queen Améliane Morvenne, a queen cursed, betrayed, and caged within a sentient castle that breathes with memory and magic. Wildes writes her with such emotional precision and depth that you feel every shift in her soul. This is not a story of easy rescue, but of profound reclamation a slow burn journey where love is discovered not in grand gestures, but in whispered truths and shared survival.
Richly imagined and irresistibly immersive, Eldrenoire is for readers who crave fantasy with a soul, romance with teeth, and heroines who rise from ruin not through swords, but through sheer, breathtaking will. Wildes has created something truly special here: a world that feels mythic, a heart that feels real, and a story that lingers like mist long after you’ve turned the final page. A stunning, unforgettable read.
July 2, 2025
I received an advanced copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
If you love mature characters, a cursed Queen, and a sentient castle — you're in for a treat with Eldrenoire!
One of my favorite parts of this story was how the castle truly came to life, becoming a character in its own right. The world-building was rich, atmospheric, and filled with intrigue. I also really appreciated seeing a female main character in her 40s — a refreshing change from the typical teenage heroine. The main characters have lived full, complicated lives, complete with previous marriages, regrets, and hard-won wisdom.
Now trapped in a cursed castle, they must face not only ancient magic, but their own pasts as they navigate love, survival, and transformation. Eldrenoire blends romance, fantasy, and emotional depth beautifully, making it a compelling read for anyone who enjoys stories about strength, second chances, and the magic that comes with embracing who you truly are.
If you love mature characters, a cursed Queen, and a sentient castle — you're in for a treat with Eldrenoire!
One of my favorite parts of this story was how the castle truly came to life, becoming a character in its own right. The world-building was rich, atmospheric, and filled with intrigue. I also really appreciated seeing a female main character in her 40s — a refreshing change from the typical teenage heroine. The main characters have lived full, complicated lives, complete with previous marriages, regrets, and hard-won wisdom.
Now trapped in a cursed castle, they must face not only ancient magic, but their own pasts as they navigate love, survival, and transformation. Eldrenoire blends romance, fantasy, and emotional depth beautifully, making it a compelling read for anyone who enjoys stories about strength, second chances, and the magic that comes with embracing who you truly are.
July 8, 2025
I was absolutely floored by this book. What I expected to be a silly romantasy turned out to be so much more.
The main characters are so lovable but also flawed and real. It was refreshing to see mature love interests who actually communicate and grow a bond over time rather than the teenage insta love I see in books so often these days (which don't get me wrong, I love that too!).
It gave Beauty and the Beast vibes at first, but I believe it's actually inspired by a different French fairy tale. The story and world felt so unique and I was transported right there with all the characters, living their tension and heartbreak and moments of happiness with them.
I almost wish I hadn't received an early copy so the book 2 release would be closer :( But I absolutely cannot wait to buy a physical copy for my shelf.
I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
The main characters are so lovable but also flawed and real. It was refreshing to see mature love interests who actually communicate and grow a bond over time rather than the teenage insta love I see in books so often these days (which don't get me wrong, I love that too!).
It gave Beauty and the Beast vibes at first, but I believe it's actually inspired by a different French fairy tale. The story and world felt so unique and I was transported right there with all the characters, living their tension and heartbreak and moments of happiness with them.
I almost wish I hadn't received an early copy so the book 2 release would be closer :( But I absolutely cannot wait to buy a physical copy for my shelf.
I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
July 13, 2025
Eldrenoire is an atmospheric, emotionally rich fantasy that completely swept me away.
From the first page, I was hooked by the eerie beauty of the setting- a sentient, cursed castle hidden deep in a jungle- and by Améliane, a powerful queen trapped in it. Add in Mathieu, a wounded scholar with a hidden past, and the result is a slow-burn romance that smolders.
This book is dark, lyrical, and deeply character-driven. It explores grief, identity, and survival without ever losing its sense of magic. The writing is gorgeous, the stakes are high, and the twists are delicious. If you love a brooding castle, sharp banter, or stories that walk the line between fairytale and tragedy- this one’s for you.
I laughed, I cried, I annotated my heart out. Easily one of my favorite reads of the year.
Five stars. Would sell my soul to read the sequel early.
From the first page, I was hooked by the eerie beauty of the setting- a sentient, cursed castle hidden deep in a jungle- and by Améliane, a powerful queen trapped in it. Add in Mathieu, a wounded scholar with a hidden past, and the result is a slow-burn romance that smolders.
This book is dark, lyrical, and deeply character-driven. It explores grief, identity, and survival without ever losing its sense of magic. The writing is gorgeous, the stakes are high, and the twists are delicious. If you love a brooding castle, sharp banter, or stories that walk the line between fairytale and tragedy- this one’s for you.
I laughed, I cried, I annotated my heart out. Easily one of my favorite reads of the year.
Five stars. Would sell my soul to read the sequel early.
June 28, 2025
Elle Wilde's ability to write a new tale from inspiration is breath-taking. Inspired by the French fairytale "The White Cat", she spins a tale all her own. With a stranger being hunted, and happens upon a mysterious castle, what is one to do? What mysteries does this castle hold, and what is with this white cat? Eldrenoire takes you on a journey of mystery, betrayal, haunted pasts, and love. Will the stranger be able to break the long standing curse? If so, at what price? With winding and changing hallways, a Hall of Mirrors, a court that shifts, a castle designed to keep its beloved Queen safe, and a vengeful King; the mystery is multi-layered.
I had a great time reading Eldrenoire, as my first ARC read ever, and look forward to the next book, as this is book one in the series!
I had a great time reading Eldrenoire, as my first ARC read ever, and look forward to the next book, as this is book one in the series!
July 14, 2025
ARC Review: 3.25 ⭐️
I really enjoyed this book and appreciate Elle Wildes giving me the opportunity to read Eldrenoire. The story was engaging and I loved that all the characters were actual adults. The slow-burn romance and the little heartfelt moments that Améliane and Mathieu shared were sweet. The ever-changing, sentient, cursed castle was a creative and interesting element.
I do wish there had been more of a backstory about Queen Améliane. What made her such a great ruler and why her people supported her so strongly? That part felt underdeveloped. Some of the writing felt repetitive in structure and word choice, but with a bit more editing, I think this book has the potential to standout among many traditionally published romantasy books.
I really enjoyed this book and appreciate Elle Wildes giving me the opportunity to read Eldrenoire. The story was engaging and I loved that all the characters were actual adults. The slow-burn romance and the little heartfelt moments that Améliane and Mathieu shared were sweet. The ever-changing, sentient, cursed castle was a creative and interesting element.
I do wish there had been more of a backstory about Queen Améliane. What made her such a great ruler and why her people supported her so strongly? That part felt underdeveloped. Some of the writing felt repetitive in structure and word choice, but with a bit more editing, I think this book has the potential to standout among many traditionally published romantasy books.
November 13, 2025
Absolutely haunting and breathtaking!
This book was nothing like I expected—and I mean that in the best possible way. It’s dark, beautiful, and so different from any fantasy I’ve read in a long time. The castle itself feels alive (and a little bit spooky), and I loved every eerie, atmospheric detail.
The characters were fantastic—older, wiser, and full of depth. It was refreshing to see a fantasy cast that carried real history and heartbreak. And speaking of heartbreak… this book has plenty of it. What’s a good story without a little ache, right?
And that ending! The cliffhanger left me absolutely reeling—I need book two immediately.
If you love gothic fantasy, slow-burn romance, and stories that linger with you long after the last page, Eldrenoire is an absolute must-read.
This book was nothing like I expected—and I mean that in the best possible way. It’s dark, beautiful, and so different from any fantasy I’ve read in a long time. The castle itself feels alive (and a little bit spooky), and I loved every eerie, atmospheric detail.
The characters were fantastic—older, wiser, and full of depth. It was refreshing to see a fantasy cast that carried real history and heartbreak. And speaking of heartbreak… this book has plenty of it. What’s a good story without a little ache, right?
And that ending! The cliffhanger left me absolutely reeling—I need book two immediately.
If you love gothic fantasy, slow-burn romance, and stories that linger with you long after the last page, Eldrenoire is an absolute must-read.
August 5, 2025
Elle Wildes has given a breath of fresh air to romantasy. I had not read this genre in quite some time. Eldrenoire dragged me in and held on tight. A castle and its residents of troubled misfits. The character and world development are extraordinary. I recommend this read to anyone who enjoys romantasy…or anyone who has been thinking of trying it.
It all starts with an enchanted castle… “This was not power wielded by a hand. It was the castle itself. It breathed. It shifted. It watched. And it did not intend to let him go.”
Thank you, Elle Wildes. Eldrenoire was exactly the unique fictional world that I needed to immerse myself in! I can’t wait for more.
It all starts with an enchanted castle… “This was not power wielded by a hand. It was the castle itself. It breathed. It shifted. It watched. And it did not intend to let him go.”
Thank you, Elle Wildes. Eldrenoire was exactly the unique fictional world that I needed to immerse myself in! I can’t wait for more.
September 18, 2025
Wow, this book totally swept me away into a whirlwind of emotions! Picture betrayal, mystery, and a hint of romance all swirling together in a gothic-fantasy world. Améliane Morvenne’s tale in the enchanting but cursed Eldrenoire castle had me glued to the pages, feeling her struggles as if they were my own. The themes of survival intertwined with deep emotions and the quest for truth kept me hooked. The novel’s exploration of memory, transformation, and the emotional consequences of magic added so much depth to the captivating story. Améliane’s resilience as a morally complex queen left me in awe of her strength.
December 29, 2025
I just finished Eldrenoire and highly recommend it. From the start the book drew me into its world. The pacing was good and I stayed engaged from the first page to the last without feeling rushed or dragging. The world building was a strength. The author creates a detailed and immersive setting that feels fully thought out. I liked that the information was given exactly when needed. I never felt overwhelmed or felt the need to have to go back and review information. I enjoyed the slow burn romance even though you knew it was inevitable. The gradual build up made their connection feel genuine and not forced. I can't wait for the second book.
July 24, 2025
The beauty of love after you've been through battle is what this story is about. Two adult MCs to carry a romance that isn't about passion and rush of emotions but quiet devotion.
A slow burn romance inside a sad but beautiful tale.
The pacing is off. Some of the words are clanky and seem misplaced, but at the end of the story those are little blemishes in a much more epically sweeping love story.
A slow burn romance inside a sad but beautiful tale.
The pacing is off. Some of the words are clanky and seem misplaced, but at the end of the story those are little blemishes in a much more epically sweeping love story.
July 31, 2025
This book grabbed me by the should and sucked me in from the very first chapter! I have not given 5 stars to a book yet this year, and Eldrenoir is the first 5 star read for me! I'd give it 6 stars if I could. Elle Wildes has a way of building a world and characters that makes you think and creates a page turner like no other. I'm super impressed by this author and I am literally waiting at the edge of my seat for the next book! I'll for sure be reading this one again! Chef's kiss!
August 10, 2025
No spoilers, I don’t want to give anything away. You will not be disappointed if you love fantasy romances. The characters have lived a life, no teens or YA here. The character and world building is captivating without a dull moment in the entire book. Elle Wildes is truly impressive with her debut book. So much so that I will be reading it again to capture the words so well written. This series will be the next big read of 2025 and beyond. I can’t wait to see what comes next.
January 6, 2026
Unique premise, super detailed fantasy world, the villains are very hate-able, and though the pace is slow and there is a lot of repetition I still enjoyed it. I’m happy with the ending and doubt I will be reading the second book, I just can’t bring myself to endure the sluggishness all over again. Super slow romance, not the focus of the story so if that’s your thing don’t bother. Overall good book and good palate cleanser.
May 28, 2025
Wow.....This feeling is pure magic—when a book fully absorbs you into its world, leaving reality behind, Eldrenoire did that for me. Without giving away spoilers, Queen Ameliane & Mathieu's story is a slow burn romantasy all the characters grow within the book . A must read for all fantasy lovers, you don't just read the book, you live in their world. :-)
August 13, 2025
This book needs to be next on your TBR!
I fell in love with these amazing characters rather quickly. Améliane is not another young heroine. She has depth, regret and love. She may have been a woman that was never meant to rule, but she was a born leader. Mathieu may have found a calling that suits him more than soldier or fugitive. I cannot recommend more!
I fell in love with these amazing characters rather quickly. Améliane is not another young heroine. She has depth, regret and love. She may have been a woman that was never meant to rule, but she was a born leader. Mathieu may have found a calling that suits him more than soldier or fugitive. I cannot recommend more!
August 30, 2025
I loved this book! Having older characters made their journeys through tragedy, betrayal, and healing feel so authentic, and their slow-burn romance was beautifully woven into the misty, gothic atmosphere of a sentient castle. The subtle sarcasm between them was perfection. I’m completely hooked and can’t wait for the next book!
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