What do you think?
Rate this book
Wretched Mage #1
Wretched Mage
Wretched Mage is a debut romantic fantasy and the first instalment in a new adult series. Perfect for fans of Sarah J. Maas and Carissa Broadbent, this novel tells a character-driven story spanning two contrasting worlds, filled with political intrigue and swoon-worthy romance.
She crossed into their lands. Now she can’t leave.
Jane Darling didn’t know what to expect when she took on the role of merchant for the first time after her father fell ill, but it certainly wasn’t venturing into mage territory. When she’s caught unknowingly trespassing, she’s sentenced to remain on their lands under the watch of the Mage Lord of Mountheim, Reagan.
With her family’s livelihood hanging in the balance, Jane must rely on the estate’s staff to secure vital trade agreements while defending herself against the monsters that stalk a cursed realm and a centuries-old Order steeped in hatred and violence against humans.
But as the stakes rise and the undeniable attraction between Jane and Reagan intensifies, she must learn how their magic works and rely on her wit to survive threats against her life, political intrigue, and the dangerous pull of a man she’s not supposed to want.
For readers who love:
She crossed into their lands. Now she can’t leave.
Jane Darling didn’t know what to expect when she took on the role of merchant for the first time after her father fell ill, but it certainly wasn’t venturing into mage territory. When she’s caught unknowingly trespassing, she’s sentenced to remain on their lands under the watch of the Mage Lord of Mountheim, Reagan.
With her family’s livelihood hanging in the balance, Jane must rely on the estate’s staff to secure vital trade agreements while defending herself against the monsters that stalk a cursed realm and a centuries-old Order steeped in hatred and violence against humans.
But as the stakes rise and the undeniable attraction between Jane and Reagan intensifies, she must learn how their magic works and rely on her wit to survive threats against her life, political intrigue, and the dangerous pull of a man she’s not supposed to want.
For readers who love:
ebook
First published May 28, 2025
26 people are currently reading
506 people want to read
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 101 reviews
November 16, 2025
thank you to netgalley and the publishers for an arc in exchange for an honest review.
i didn't know when i first got this edition from netgalley, it was previously published already but that didn't stop me lol.
i really enjoyed this. it definitely read YA to me, but was easy to follow along with the world-building and magic system. there is a lot of intense moments throughout the book but enough pause in between for you to gather your thoughts etc.
there were a few inconsistencies i noticed throughout that didn't make sense to me or wondered why we never dove deeper into them - but i think some of it will come in with the next book a little more which i WILL be reading.
i enjoyed the slow-burn romance in this, the tension.
i do say i wish this was dual pov and would have gotten Reagan's view on a lot and how he felt.
i didn't know when i first got this edition from netgalley, it was previously published already but that didn't stop me lol.
i really enjoyed this. it definitely read YA to me, but was easy to follow along with the world-building and magic system. there is a lot of intense moments throughout the book but enough pause in between for you to gather your thoughts etc.
there were a few inconsistencies i noticed throughout that didn't make sense to me or wondered why we never dove deeper into them - but i think some of it will come in with the next book a little more which i WILL be reading.
i enjoyed the slow-burn romance in this, the tension.
i do say i wish this was dual pov and would have gotten Reagan's view on a lot and how he felt.
November 13, 2025
Another awesome beauty and the beast retelling that uses the original premise and expands on it making it its own entirely. Loved the world building and literally stepping into it with our fmc. Jane is really strong and constantly fighting and I really enjoyed watching her rile up Reagan. Loved the forced proximity and gothic vibes. This was a nice easy enjoyable read. Congrats to the author on her debut and thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for the arc 💜
May 2, 2025
3.5⭐️
This was a good, fun, easy time.
We follow Jane Darling, a human, who is sentenced to spend 1 full year with Lord Mage Ragen at Mountheim, an ancient and long hidden estate, after she's caught (accidentally) trespassing on his land. Both Jane and Ragen are furious to have to spend a full year together, but sparks soon fly!
This was such an easy read. I read it in a single sitting. It's over 400 pages but felt like 200. I really enjoyed the plot, the characters, the magic system, and the sizzling chemistry between Jane and Raegan. It also had a gothic feel to it, which was something I really adored.
My favourite part has to be the way Jane intentionally riles up Raegan. She's powerless, he's incredibly powerful, and yet she's literally doesn't care. It was so satisfying to read!
The only issue I had with the book is that the writing was a little too YA for me, which isn't a bad thing, it's the reason why this book was such an easy, fun read, but I felt some of the scenes felt a little out of place and didn't fit in with the writing style. But that's just personal preference.
Consider this is Juliana Pinheiro debut novel. I think it's excellent, and I will definitely be continuing with the series.
Thank you so much, Juliana, for sending me this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
🖤Fantasy Romance
🖤Mages
🖤Magic System
🖤Badass FMC
🖤Forced Proximity
🖤Enemies-to-lovers
This was a good, fun, easy time.
We follow Jane Darling, a human, who is sentenced to spend 1 full year with Lord Mage Ragen at Mountheim, an ancient and long hidden estate, after she's caught (accidentally) trespassing on his land. Both Jane and Ragen are furious to have to spend a full year together, but sparks soon fly!
This was such an easy read. I read it in a single sitting. It's over 400 pages but felt like 200. I really enjoyed the plot, the characters, the magic system, and the sizzling chemistry between Jane and Raegan. It also had a gothic feel to it, which was something I really adored.
My favourite part has to be the way Jane intentionally riles up Raegan. She's powerless, he's incredibly powerful, and yet she's literally doesn't care. It was so satisfying to read!
The only issue I had with the book is that the writing was a little too YA for me, which isn't a bad thing, it's the reason why this book was such an easy, fun read, but I felt some of the scenes felt a little out of place and didn't fit in with the writing style. But that's just personal preference.
Consider this is Juliana Pinheiro debut novel. I think it's excellent, and I will definitely be continuing with the series.
Thank you so much, Juliana, for sending me this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
🖤Fantasy Romance
🖤Mages
🖤Magic System
🖤Badass FMC
🖤Forced Proximity
🖤Enemies-to-lovers
September 20, 2025
This book was absolutely amazing! I was in a terrible reading slump before, but when I started reading this, I couldn’t put it down.
It’s a quick read, but don’t let that fool you – the descriptive writing is incredibly well done. It’s a Beauty and the Beast retelling, but everything in the book made sense while also being unpredictable in my opinion. The ending left me speechless and processing everything for about five minutes. I can’t wait for the next book!
The characters were all so well-developed and I adored each and every one of them. The tension and slow burn between the main characters were perfectly done.
If you love a good romantasy with some slow burn (to spice), courtly intrigue, and found family, then I highly recommend checking out this book. 😌
It’s a quick read, but don’t let that fool you – the descriptive writing is incredibly well done. It’s a Beauty and the Beast retelling, but everything in the book made sense while also being unpredictable in my opinion. The ending left me speechless and processing everything for about five minutes. I can’t wait for the next book!
The characters were all so well-developed and I adored each and every one of them. The tension and slow burn between the main characters were perfectly done.
If you love a good romantasy with some slow burn (to spice), courtly intrigue, and found family, then I highly recommend checking out this book. 😌
October 26, 2025
Wretched Mage is the debut novel by Juliana Pinheiro and was first published in May of 2025. I was lucky enough to get a free copy of it through NetGalley and enjoyed it a lot!
Jane Darling is a human, heading to a nearby town to represent her sick father at a market. When she exits at what she believes to be her train stop, she finds herself lost in the woods, where she is beset upon by frightening beasts. One of these beasts leads her to his home, and is revealed to be a mage lord under a curse as punishment for past transgressions. As punishment for her trespassing on mage lands, and so that the reasons for her entry onto mage lands can be uncovered, she is sentenced to spending a year under the protection of this mage lord, Reagan. As the two grow closer, they must confront numerous obstacles - the complications of a mage/human relationship and the reality that Jane will be sent back to the human lands with her memories wiped at the end of the year. Despite this, they grow closer, and, predictably, begin to fall in love.
I enjoyed this book a lot! I will say that I did struggle a little with the number of similarities between this and A Court of Thorns and Roses/A Court of Mist and Fury. Reagan felt like a little bit of a combo between Rhys & Tamlin, although perhaps some of those similarities were unavoidable with this being a Beauty & The Beast retelling. Jane is eventually appointed as Reagan's emissary and travels with him to summery lands to conduct business with their Mage Lord, in a section very similar to a lot of ACOMAF. With that being said, I enjoyed this a lot and would certainly go on to read the next book. It would be interesting to see if the stories deviate further as they move away from the initial Beauty & The Beast inspiration.
✅ Romantasy
✅ M/F romance
✅ Beauty & The Beast retelling
✅ Mages
✅ Forced proximity
✅ Spice
Wretched Mage is available now and is on Kindle Unlimited if you're interested!
Thank you to Juliana Pinheiro for this E-ARC through NetGalley! All opinions are my own.
Jane Darling is a human, heading to a nearby town to represent her sick father at a market. When she exits at what she believes to be her train stop, she finds herself lost in the woods, where she is beset upon by frightening beasts. One of these beasts leads her to his home, and is revealed to be a mage lord under a curse as punishment for past transgressions. As punishment for her trespassing on mage lands, and so that the reasons for her entry onto mage lands can be uncovered, she is sentenced to spending a year under the protection of this mage lord, Reagan. As the two grow closer, they must confront numerous obstacles - the complications of a mage/human relationship and the reality that Jane will be sent back to the human lands with her memories wiped at the end of the year. Despite this, they grow closer, and, predictably, begin to fall in love.
I enjoyed this book a lot! I will say that I did struggle a little with the number of similarities between this and A Court of Thorns and Roses/A Court of Mist and Fury. Reagan felt like a little bit of a combo between Rhys & Tamlin, although perhaps some of those similarities were unavoidable with this being a Beauty & The Beast retelling. Jane is eventually appointed as Reagan's emissary and travels with him to summery lands to conduct business with their Mage Lord, in a section very similar to a lot of ACOMAF. With that being said, I enjoyed this a lot and would certainly go on to read the next book. It would be interesting to see if the stories deviate further as they move away from the initial Beauty & The Beast inspiration.
✅ Romantasy
✅ M/F romance
✅ Beauty & The Beast retelling
✅ Mages
✅ Forced proximity
✅ Spice
Wretched Mage is available now and is on Kindle Unlimited if you're interested!
Thank you to Juliana Pinheiro for this E-ARC through NetGalley! All opinions are my own.
October 24, 2025
4 stars
This was so much fun. And albeit it reads a bit YA I had a blast reading this.
The story -enemies-to-lovers mixed with slowburn- was done so well. I really enjoyed the characters' journey and that last 10%.. the twists were so good. Can't wait for book 2 after that cliffhanger.
Overall, I love the story, the magic system, and the world building, although I do think we'll get more explanations about some things in book 2. This was a very engaging and entertaining read .
Thank you to Netgalley and the publishers for the chance to read this book in exchange for an honest review.
This was so much fun. And albeit it reads a bit YA I had a blast reading this.
The story -enemies-to-lovers mixed with slowburn- was done so well. I really enjoyed the characters' journey and that last 10%.. the twists were so good. Can't wait for book 2 after that cliffhanger.
Overall, I love the story, the magic system, and the world building, although I do think we'll get more explanations about some things in book 2. This was a very engaging and entertaining read .
Thank you to Netgalley and the publishers for the chance to read this book in exchange for an honest review.
October 19, 2025
Wow! What a great first novel.
The story follows a human woman called Jane as she stumbles on a land that is supposed to be warded against human intrusions. Here she meets mages and mage-human hybrids, and is sentenced to spend a year under the protection of Reagan, a mage Lord, while she tries to work out how she managed to breach the wards.
The world building is excellent but easy to follow, the descriptions brought the locations to life and the characters are well-written. The MMC is suitably gorgeous with a side of yikes, the besties are adorable and the villain is slimy to say the least.
The plot is a loose beauty and the beast retelling, though I also felt there were some ACOTAR echoes in here too.
Jane’s journey as she develops from someone feeling helpless and out-of-control to a valued member of the court is a delight to read.
The slow burn between her and Reagan was delicious, even though her concerns frustrated me at times. I would’ve caved earlier! 🤭
My only (minor) niggles are;
• There are a few clunky transitions that don’t match (eg someone kneeling then a few lines later they sit from standing) but these really are minor and I was so engrossed in the story I was able to brush over them.
• The jump to some of the conclusions Jane made was quite large, and therefore felt slightly more on the convenient side rather than believable. But if you can fully suspend any disbelief I’m sure this won’t bother you.
If you enjoy enemies-to-lovers, court intrigue, magic, a swoony MMC and a capable FMC then this is for you!
A solid 4 star read.
I will definitely read the next book in the series and look forward to finding out what happens next.
Many thanks to NetGalley for the e-book, which I received after the publication date.
All review comments are my own.
The story follows a human woman called Jane as she stumbles on a land that is supposed to be warded against human intrusions. Here she meets mages and mage-human hybrids, and is sentenced to spend a year under the protection of Reagan, a mage Lord, while she tries to work out how she managed to breach the wards.
The world building is excellent but easy to follow, the descriptions brought the locations to life and the characters are well-written. The MMC is suitably gorgeous with a side of yikes, the besties are adorable and the villain is slimy to say the least.
The plot is a loose beauty and the beast retelling, though I also felt there were some ACOTAR echoes in here too.
Jane’s journey as she develops from someone feeling helpless and out-of-control to a valued member of the court is a delight to read.
The slow burn between her and Reagan was delicious, even though her concerns frustrated me at times. I would’ve caved earlier! 🤭
My only (minor) niggles are;
• There are a few clunky transitions that don’t match (eg someone kneeling then a few lines later they sit from standing) but these really are minor and I was so engrossed in the story I was able to brush over them.
• The jump to some of the conclusions Jane made was quite large, and therefore felt slightly more on the convenient side rather than believable. But if you can fully suspend any disbelief I’m sure this won’t bother you.
If you enjoy enemies-to-lovers, court intrigue, magic, a swoony MMC and a capable FMC then this is for you!
A solid 4 star read.
I will definitely read the next book in the series and look forward to finding out what happens next.
Many thanks to NetGalley for the e-book, which I received after the publication date.
All review comments are my own.
November 17, 2025
Unfortunately, I have to give this book two stars. It’s simply not the book for me. My biggest issue with this book from the very first chapter is this is just.. ACOTAR. I have read other Beauty and the Beast retellings but they didn’t give me the too similar vibes of ACOTAR and stood out on their own, but this felt like it followed the themes almost too closely. There was a lot of inconsistencies in the plot, magical world, and the end was unfortunately predictable to me. I wanted the relationship growth and the characters to be built out and grow on their own but it felt like they were only there to strengthen the predictable plot sometimes.
I did enjoy each character individually, especially Jane, and their backgrounds and banter. I really enjoyed the beginning atmosphere with Jane getting off the train, being nervous for the market, and then worrying about her family and making a stand. I think the bravery (and defiance) she consistently showed throughout the book was refreshing. I’m sure this book is for someone out there, but unfortunately not me.
Thank you to the author, publisher, and Netgalley for a copy of this book.
I did enjoy each character individually, especially Jane, and their backgrounds and banter. I really enjoyed the beginning atmosphere with Jane getting off the train, being nervous for the market, and then worrying about her family and making a stand. I think the bravery (and defiance) she consistently showed throughout the book was refreshing. I’m sure this book is for someone out there, but unfortunately not me.
Thank you to the author, publisher, and Netgalley for a copy of this book.
November 2, 2025
Final verdict:
(Thanks to Netgallery and the publisher for a free ebook in exchange for an honest review)
This book was above average, but there was nothing memorable about it other than the initial hook in the opening of the story. I think the world building itself was phenomenal, it is the sort of writing I want to see more of. The only reason I haven't rated this five stars is literally that: It wasn't memorable to me. Other than the initial hook. I did enjoy this story, but when it comes to recommendations I wouldn't know why to recommend it. I do however want to acknowledge that this is a book if I saw in a shop I would buy, and it is probably a book that I will return to.
If anyone here remembers a romance game called the arcane, and Julian was your type (like he was mine at the time) then absolutely pick up this book. Other than that there isn't really much to say on this book.
Usually when I have a arc- I comment about spelling or grammatical errors, I like to have a notepad next to me when going through an arc copy- I have no notes. So the editing and the writing go hand in hand as brilliant. I'm unsure what makes a world memorable to me, this one just wasn't. The writing was however- above average, and this is the sort of book I do want to see published more. I know this is very vague for a review - but I honestly do not know what else to put.
Before notes:
I've applied for the arc copy but I can see its also been released. Need to keep tabs on this so I come back to it. Looks like the sort of thing I would read. I love the art on the cover, the title is enticing plus the lettering/typography stands out as something new and different, so I'm very intrigued by this one.
(Thanks to Netgallery and the publisher for a free ebook in exchange for an honest review)
This book was above average, but there was nothing memorable about it other than the initial hook in the opening of the story. I think the world building itself was phenomenal, it is the sort of writing I want to see more of. The only reason I haven't rated this five stars is literally that: It wasn't memorable to me. Other than the initial hook. I did enjoy this story, but when it comes to recommendations I wouldn't know why to recommend it. I do however want to acknowledge that this is a book if I saw in a shop I would buy, and it is probably a book that I will return to.
If anyone here remembers a romance game called the arcane, and Julian was your type (like he was mine at the time) then absolutely pick up this book. Other than that there isn't really much to say on this book.
Usually when I have a arc- I comment about spelling or grammatical errors, I like to have a notepad next to me when going through an arc copy- I have no notes. So the editing and the writing go hand in hand as brilliant. I'm unsure what makes a world memorable to me, this one just wasn't. The writing was however- above average, and this is the sort of book I do want to see published more. I know this is very vague for a review - but I honestly do not know what else to put.
Before notes:
I've applied for the arc copy but I can see its also been released. Need to keep tabs on this so I come back to it. Looks like the sort of thing I would read. I love the art on the cover, the title is enticing plus the lettering/typography stands out as something new and different, so I'm very intrigued by this one.
September 17, 2025
For a debut, this blew me away. The descriptive writing completely immersed me in the world!
It’s a slowburn, enemies to lovers romance and BOY DID REAGAN HAVE ME SWOONING!!! 😍
The tension between him and Jane was so good.
The world building and court system were layered and intriguing and added depth without slowing the pace.
And then… THE CLIFFHANGER. As ironic as this is coming from me: I need more. Immediately. Please and thank you Juliana.
It’s a slowburn, enemies to lovers romance and BOY DID REAGAN HAVE ME SWOONING!!! 😍
The tension between him and Jane was so good.
The world building and court system were layered and intriguing and added depth without slowing the pace.
And then… THE CLIFFHANGER. As ironic as this is coming from me: I need more. Immediately. Please and thank you Juliana.
Read
November 5, 2025Thank you to NetGalley and to the author for an eARC in exchange for an honest review
Is this cover not to die for??? Beyond gorgeous! This was a Beauty and the Beast fantasy retelling: immediately identifiable by the sentient/magic castle, partially transformed staff, and the curse with a deadline to be broken. This had loads of aspects of fantasy novels that I know a lot of folk will love. We had a forced proximity to lovers thing going on, a learning to fight montage, a bit of exploration of the fantasy world. Unfortunately for me, the writing just didn't quite do it justice and the plot fell pretty flat. I felt like our mmc kept intentionally embarrassing the protagonist in public and that started to feel kind of icky? Idk just not a fan, despite how stunning it is!
Is this cover not to die for??? Beyond gorgeous! This was a Beauty and the Beast fantasy retelling: immediately identifiable by the sentient/magic castle, partially transformed staff, and the curse with a deadline to be broken. This had loads of aspects of fantasy novels that I know a lot of folk will love. We had a forced proximity to lovers thing going on, a learning to fight montage, a bit of exploration of the fantasy world. Unfortunately for me, the writing just didn't quite do it justice and the plot fell pretty flat. I felt like our mmc kept intentionally embarrassing the protagonist in public and that started to feel kind of icky? Idk just not a fan, despite how stunning it is!
May 18, 2025
4.5 ⭐️ rating for me! Wretched Mage felt like going back to an adult version of Hogwarts with a hint of ACOTAR woven through it. It makes up a perfect combination if you ask me!
Jane is your perfect badass bestie, I loved the fire she had and secretly wished I had some of her spirit in me! And Raegan is a grumpy man you’ll fall in love with in no time, if you want it or not!
Some scenes really made my heart pound from the tension in them, while other scenes made me feel sorry for poor Jane. I love how Juliana left little hints throughout the book, so I would say, pay attention while reading Wretched Mage and see if you can figure everything out! 😉
It was a true pageturner, making me want to stay home from work and read all through the night.
Congratulations on your debut novel sweet Juli! Can’t wait to see where the story of Jane and Raegan leads in book two! 🫶🏽
Jane is your perfect badass bestie, I loved the fire she had and secretly wished I had some of her spirit in me! And Raegan is a grumpy man you’ll fall in love with in no time, if you want it or not!
Some scenes really made my heart pound from the tension in them, while other scenes made me feel sorry for poor Jane. I love how Juliana left little hints throughout the book, so I would say, pay attention while reading Wretched Mage and see if you can figure everything out! 😉
It was a true pageturner, making me want to stay home from work and read all through the night.
Congratulations on your debut novel sweet Juli! Can’t wait to see where the story of Jane and Raegan leads in book two! 🫶🏽
October 19, 2025
4.5 ⭐️ review coming soon
June 1, 2025
Thank you so much for the EARC copy and Physical copy of The Wretched Mage.
I adored your book. I didn’t feel for a moment overwhelmed with information, the world building was so well set, I could imagine it all straight away.
The detail with Jane Darling’s ring was interesting, it was mentioned first whilst she was on the train and I thought to myself “this ring is going to mean something” and it went on to be mentioned few more times and I became more convinced that Jane wasn’t human, possibly a witch, a healer but never thought her to be a mage.
I found her relatable, not annoying and quite refreshing. I loved how much she cared for her family and that she couldn’t release that guilt, even after Reagan, suggested that he could have their wellbeing taken care of.
I adored how much she challenged Reagan, wouldn’t take any nonsense and pushed him to be better whilst holding him accountable.
Their tension was everything and I’ll be honest, I was rooting for them to be endgame as soon as they met, I do live for an enemies to lovers trope and this was delivered.
I adored the details of him falling for her, turning up at her bedroom door, trying to find common ground, showing and practically giving her the library.
That scene when he said that Mage’s were patient and that her chose her, I’ve highlighted it, it was so good, he showed real vulnerability in that moment and when they kissed, bloody hell! It was everything, I was so cross at Jane for stopping the situation from developing but also understood given that they only had mere months together, that her memory of him would be wiped clean and she was thinking of getting back to her family.
I’ll be honest, I need his PoV, just like a flashback or something from when he met her. He said that he wanted her from the beginning and I would have loved to of read about his yearning.
“I am not in love with any mountain” WOW. I did laugh how they went on to discuss hypothetical love whilst just declaring their feelings. Jane being so torn because their time is limited and won’t recall it and Reagan not caring, wanting everything with her whilst they had the time. Urgh. It was everything.
I love her friendship with Gwin, she comes across as the biggest snob on the train but to see their friendship blossom, it reminded me of Aelin & Lysandra.
Even Reagan’s friendship with Finn reminded me of Tamlin & Lucien but you know, without trapping and suppressing the fmc part.
I want to know more about Joy, that cliffhanger, I need more.
I want Jane & Caedmon to be together, what a power house. I need them to be Lord & Lady of Mountheim.
I did enjoy the conflict between Mages & Humans, I feel that plot is deeper than what was discovered in this book?
I had a rally good time reading Wretched Mage, my only issue is, I need Caedmon’s point of view! I think I may be a little obsessed with him, maybe it’s because he reminded me so much of Dorian Havilliard.
So thank you for this book, it was beautiful.
A solid 4/5 stars.
I adored your book. I didn’t feel for a moment overwhelmed with information, the world building was so well set, I could imagine it all straight away.
The detail with Jane Darling’s ring was interesting, it was mentioned first whilst she was on the train and I thought to myself “this ring is going to mean something” and it went on to be mentioned few more times and I became more convinced that Jane wasn’t human, possibly a witch, a healer but never thought her to be a mage.
I found her relatable, not annoying and quite refreshing. I loved how much she cared for her family and that she couldn’t release that guilt, even after Reagan, suggested that he could have their wellbeing taken care of.
I adored how much she challenged Reagan, wouldn’t take any nonsense and pushed him to be better whilst holding him accountable.
Their tension was everything and I’ll be honest, I was rooting for them to be endgame as soon as they met, I do live for an enemies to lovers trope and this was delivered.
I adored the details of him falling for her, turning up at her bedroom door, trying to find common ground, showing and practically giving her the library.
That scene when he said that Mage’s were patient and that her chose her, I’ve highlighted it, it was so good, he showed real vulnerability in that moment and when they kissed, bloody hell! It was everything, I was so cross at Jane for stopping the situation from developing but also understood given that they only had mere months together, that her memory of him would be wiped clean and she was thinking of getting back to her family.
I’ll be honest, I need his PoV, just like a flashback or something from when he met her. He said that he wanted her from the beginning and I would have loved to of read about his yearning.
“I am not in love with any mountain” WOW. I did laugh how they went on to discuss hypothetical love whilst just declaring their feelings. Jane being so torn because their time is limited and won’t recall it and Reagan not caring, wanting everything with her whilst they had the time. Urgh. It was everything.
I love her friendship with Gwin, she comes across as the biggest snob on the train but to see their friendship blossom, it reminded me of Aelin & Lysandra.
Even Reagan’s friendship with Finn reminded me of Tamlin & Lucien but you know, without trapping and suppressing the fmc part.
I want to know more about Joy, that cliffhanger, I need more.
I want Jane & Caedmon to be together, what a power house. I need them to be Lord & Lady of Mountheim.
I did enjoy the conflict between Mages & Humans, I feel that plot is deeper than what was discovered in this book?
I had a rally good time reading Wretched Mage, my only issue is, I need Caedmon’s point of view! I think I may be a little obsessed with him, maybe it’s because he reminded me so much of Dorian Havilliard.
So thank you for this book, it was beautiful.
A solid 4/5 stars.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 11, 2025
So, spoiler free review of Wretched Mage is finally here.
First of I'd like to thank author Juliana Pinheiro for that I was able to get an advanced reader copy (arc) of the book and a chance to review it early. I read it as an ebook.
The book for me, was a page turner like the Cruel Prince series by Holly Black, a series I more or less sped through.
I also didn't want to stop reading and my main gripe with myself was not getting the physical (arc) because I liked the book so much. It was right down my alley and I have so so many quotes saved now for the final spoiler review coming at some point.
Wretched Mage is one of my favourite romantasy books that I have read and also one of my favourite books this year. So I can highly recommend it for fans of romance fantasy books. While I might not have agreed with every character development, it was an enjoyable read from start to finish.
So for the rating, I give Wretched Mage a 4/5 ⭐
I can't personally wait for it to be released on may 28th and I know I'll be buying a physical copy of it on release day and read it again at some point.
First of I'd like to thank author Juliana Pinheiro for that I was able to get an advanced reader copy (arc) of the book and a chance to review it early. I read it as an ebook.
The book for me, was a page turner like the Cruel Prince series by Holly Black, a series I more or less sped through.
I also didn't want to stop reading and my main gripe with myself was not getting the physical (arc) because I liked the book so much. It was right down my alley and I have so so many quotes saved now for the final spoiler review coming at some point.
Wretched Mage is one of my favourite romantasy books that I have read and also one of my favourite books this year. So I can highly recommend it for fans of romance fantasy books. While I might not have agreed with every character development, it was an enjoyable read from start to finish.
So for the rating, I give Wretched Mage a 4/5 ⭐
I can't personally wait for it to be released on may 28th and I know I'll be buying a physical copy of it on release day and read it again at some point.
July 21, 2025
Looking for a fun, fast-paced, fantasy romance? Wretched Mage by J.B. Pinheiro is just for you!
Jane Darling, a human, accidentally trespassed on mage territory, and finds herself sentenced to remain there for one year, bound to Mage Lord Reagan. Jane must survive the dangerous creatures, and resist the undeniable chemistry with Reagan. Can she make it through the year?
This was such a fun read! I finished it in under 48 hours. It featured some of my favorite tropes: forced proximity, slow burn romance, witty banter, and forbidden romance. Both the FMC and MMC were written really well, Jane was really relatable. Don’t even get me started on their chemistry! The world was written really well! The political and court intrigue was one of my favorite parts.
Wretched Mage is perfect for fans of ACOTAR and Romantasy.
Jane Darling, a human, accidentally trespassed on mage territory, and finds herself sentenced to remain there for one year, bound to Mage Lord Reagan. Jane must survive the dangerous creatures, and resist the undeniable chemistry with Reagan. Can she make it through the year?
This was such a fun read! I finished it in under 48 hours. It featured some of my favorite tropes: forced proximity, slow burn romance, witty banter, and forbidden romance. Both the FMC and MMC were written really well, Jane was really relatable. Don’t even get me started on their chemistry! The world was written really well! The political and court intrigue was one of my favorite parts.
Wretched Mage is perfect for fans of ACOTAR and Romantasy.
December 15, 2025
Jane Darling, a human traveling by train to the capital to complete trade deals for her family’s business, gets off at the wrong platform and stumbles into Mage Territory. As a human, this land shouldn’t be accessible. With this being her first time to broker her family’s trades, she assumes the unusual train stop she got off at is exactly where she needs to be. Jane finds herself wandering an eerily empty path away from the station to find the merchants she is to do business with. Instantly, she is faced with wraith like creatures that try to kill her. She is saved by a beast and taken in by the Mage Lord of the territory so that he may present her before a judge for trespassing. She’s sentenced to one year of service under the Mage Lord who found her, unable to leave and tell her family. Tensions are high between Jane and the Mage Lord, Reagan. He’s saddled with this liability while also serving out his own sentence. Jane and Reagan learn they may be able to help each other during their sentences, but that does not come without chaos and friction.
This book took off at 50%. There is a lot of world building and character introductions in the first half. At first, I didn’t appreciate it, but now I see how well everything was written to give this world and characters depth.
I’m interested to see what happens in the next book, as this is book one of a series and ends on a pretty heavy cliffy.
I’ve seen this labeled as a Beauty and The Beast retelling and it’s one of my favorites. I’m telling you, this book had my jaw on the floor during the last 150 pages. Lots of Ah-ha moments. I thought I had this story pegged from the get go, but I was wrong. Wrong about literally everything.
This book took off at 50%. There is a lot of world building and character introductions in the first half. At first, I didn’t appreciate it, but now I see how well everything was written to give this world and characters depth.
I’m interested to see what happens in the next book, as this is book one of a series and ends on a pretty heavy cliffy.
I’ve seen this labeled as a Beauty and The Beast retelling and it’s one of my favorites. I’m telling you, this book had my jaw on the floor during the last 150 pages. Lots of Ah-ha moments. I thought I had this story pegged from the get go, but I was wrong. Wrong about literally everything.
December 2, 2025
You’re thrown straight into the action from the very first chapter, which was a little jarring at first.. I would’ve loved a bit more background on Jane and her world. That said, the details do unfold nicely as the story goes on. And maybe that was the point?
Once I settled in, I was hooked. The plot had just enough twists and turns to keep me guessing, and the romance flowed naturally, nothing felt rushed or forced.
The FMC wasn’t perfect, and that made her all the more relatable. I found myself rooting for her the whole way through. All the characters were well developed and I loved the humour throughout.
Overall, a really enjoyable read! I’m eager to see where the story goes next.
Thank you to NetGalley for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Once I settled in, I was hooked. The plot had just enough twists and turns to keep me guessing, and the romance flowed naturally, nothing felt rushed or forced.
The FMC wasn’t perfect, and that made her all the more relatable. I found myself rooting for her the whole way through. All the characters were well developed and I loved the humour throughout.
Overall, a really enjoyable read! I’m eager to see where the story goes next.
Thank you to NetGalley for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
August 6, 2025
✨Book Review✨
When Juliana Pinheiro reached out asking if I'd like a review copy of this book I knew immediately I had to have this book in my hands based off the premise alone. A cursed MMC? A human girl transported to a magic world? Forced Proximity? Slow burn romance? Yes, Yes, Yes, and HELL YES!
There was absolutely no time wasted in building up to the fantasy element and instead I felt like I was immediately teleported to this rich fantasy world and what was at stake in this story.
This had all the slow burn goodness and banter that you could possibly want. All the gazes, soft touches, and quick snide retorts absolutely fizzle up to a nice medium level spice and one hell of a romance between Reagan our cursed Mage who has to prove he has redeemed himself to break his curse and Jane Darling the human unwillingly teleported and sentenced to serve a year in the Mage's world to prove she is not a threat.
Watching Reagan soften up for Jane throughout the story and her slowly melting his heart of ice was so rewarding to read. She was truly meant for him and almost immediately found her place and made herself home in his world better than she ever could in the human world.
I love a good twist ending and Wretched Mage did not disappoint! I did not see the twist ending coming but it absolutely explained so much! I can't wait for the next book in this series to see what happens next because that was one hell of a cliffhanger!
.
Favorite Quotes:
"Lately, what I can't stop thinking about is how it would feel to touch you. So here I am, asking you to let me touch you."
"Why do I feel like I'm drowning in a sea of questions when I look at you?"
"All I want is endless. All of you.
But whatever you give,even if it's just a taste, I will take it gladly. And if you offer nothing, I will hunger for it still. Have I explained enough for you?"
When Juliana Pinheiro reached out asking if I'd like a review copy of this book I knew immediately I had to have this book in my hands based off the premise alone. A cursed MMC? A human girl transported to a magic world? Forced Proximity? Slow burn romance? Yes, Yes, Yes, and HELL YES!
There was absolutely no time wasted in building up to the fantasy element and instead I felt like I was immediately teleported to this rich fantasy world and what was at stake in this story.
This had all the slow burn goodness and banter that you could possibly want. All the gazes, soft touches, and quick snide retorts absolutely fizzle up to a nice medium level spice and one hell of a romance between Reagan our cursed Mage who has to prove he has redeemed himself to break his curse and Jane Darling the human unwillingly teleported and sentenced to serve a year in the Mage's world to prove she is not a threat.
Watching Reagan soften up for Jane throughout the story and her slowly melting his heart of ice was so rewarding to read. She was truly meant for him and almost immediately found her place and made herself home in his world better than she ever could in the human world.
I love a good twist ending and Wretched Mage did not disappoint! I did not see the twist ending coming but it absolutely explained so much! I can't wait for the next book in this series to see what happens next because that was one hell of a cliffhanger!
.
Favorite Quotes:
"Lately, what I can't stop thinking about is how it would feel to touch you. So here I am, asking you to let me touch you."
"Why do I feel like I'm drowning in a sea of questions when I look at you?"
"All I want is endless. All of you.
But whatever you give,even if it's just a taste, I will take it gladly. And if you offer nothing, I will hunger for it still. Have I explained enough for you?"
November 6, 2025
Gut rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
CAWPILE rating: 4.29
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
Quote: "Whatever you give, even if it’s just a taste, I will take it gladly. And if you offer nothing, I will hunger for it still."
- slowburn romance
- enemies to lovers
- forced proximity
- wolf shapeshifter
- touch her and you'll die
- magical curse
Synopsis: For 24yo Jane Darling, getting off at the wrong train platform on her first solo merchant trip has serious consequences when she finds herself trespassing deep in Mage lands. Sentenced to one year of imprisonment in the castle of the infuriating Mage Lord Caedmon Reagan, Jane is faced with evil Mage creatures, a magical curse, political intrigue, and the intoxicating pull of Reagan.
Review: This was such a great Beauty and the Beast retelling! A slowburn romance with good spicy scenes, action packed danger, and an underlying curse that tied the story together. The cliffhanger ending was such a tease and now I can't wait to read Book 2!
This story was a lot better than ACOTAR's Beauty and the Beast retelling, with stronger world building and an actual purpose/task for the FMC during her captivity.
With thanks to the Publishers and NetGalley for providing me with this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
CAWPILE rating: 4.29
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
Quote: "Whatever you give, even if it’s just a taste, I will take it gladly. And if you offer nothing, I will hunger for it still."
- slowburn romance
- enemies to lovers
- forced proximity
- wolf shapeshifter
- touch her and you'll die
- magical curse
Synopsis: For 24yo Jane Darling, getting off at the wrong train platform on her first solo merchant trip has serious consequences when she finds herself trespassing deep in Mage lands. Sentenced to one year of imprisonment in the castle of the infuriating Mage Lord Caedmon Reagan, Jane is faced with evil Mage creatures, a magical curse, political intrigue, and the intoxicating pull of Reagan.
Review: This was such a great Beauty and the Beast retelling! A slowburn romance with good spicy scenes, action packed danger, and an underlying curse that tied the story together. The cliffhanger ending was such a tease and now I can't wait to read Book 2!
This story was a lot better than ACOTAR's Beauty and the Beast retelling, with stronger world building and an actual purpose/task for the FMC during her captivity.
With thanks to the Publishers and NetGalley for providing me with this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
November 14, 2025
Thank you to NetGalley, the author, and the publishers for the advance copy!
First, I want to say to the author that this is a solid debut book in an otherwise saturated romantasy phase of casual lit. The premise is great and the aspects that make it unique, like the Beauty and the Beast retelling, are really well done.
That said, it just wasn’t for me. I had a hard time trying to establish a timeframe (Is Ehrfurt a modern day city? Is it more early 1900s? Jane was on a train originally so some kind of technology exists? But then she puts on a pencil skirt and pantyhose?) I also just had a hard time getting depth from the characters. Reagan was clearly falling first and hard but not for any particular reason it seemed to me. I didn’t really understand why they all just kept accepting Jane as a new bestie while barely knowing anything about her.
The descriptions of landscapes, weather, and the different castles and buildings were all so beautifully done though. The author has a real talent for descriptive prose.
I’ll keep a lookout for more from this author but overall, I admittedly did end this 70% of the way through. Thank you again for the opportunity for me to provide an honest review.
First, I want to say to the author that this is a solid debut book in an otherwise saturated romantasy phase of casual lit. The premise is great and the aspects that make it unique, like the Beauty and the Beast retelling, are really well done.
That said, it just wasn’t for me. I had a hard time trying to establish a timeframe (Is Ehrfurt a modern day city? Is it more early 1900s? Jane was on a train originally so some kind of technology exists? But then she puts on a pencil skirt and pantyhose?) I also just had a hard time getting depth from the characters. Reagan was clearly falling first and hard but not for any particular reason it seemed to me. I didn’t really understand why they all just kept accepting Jane as a new bestie while barely knowing anything about her.
The descriptions of landscapes, weather, and the different castles and buildings were all so beautifully done though. The author has a real talent for descriptive prose.
I’ll keep a lookout for more from this author but overall, I admittedly did end this 70% of the way through. Thank you again for the opportunity for me to provide an honest review.
December 5, 2025
A very intriguing retelling of Beauty and the Beast, but with a more involved storyline. Very enjoyable read, and I read this over a day. It delves into Jane Darling’s accidental wander into a realm typically unknown to humans, and the required year long stay with the Lord Mage Raegan. It’s in this time period she will travel the lands with Raegan, serving as an ambassador / emissary of sorts, and work with him to figure out what exactly has allowed her into this realm in the first place. And wow - spoiler alert - THE ENDING! I will absolutely need to know more!
The side characters are entertaining, but I found myself mostly invested in Raegan and Jane’s evolving relationship. A great start and can’t wait to read the next installment. Did I mention the crazy cliffhanger?! ☺️
The side characters are entertaining, but I found myself mostly invested in Raegan and Jane’s evolving relationship. A great start and can’t wait to read the next installment. Did I mention the crazy cliffhanger?! ☺️
May 19, 2025
This was such a quick and enjoyable read — I honestly flew through it. Once you settle into the world, the pacing picks up fast and it keeps you flipping pages like now what?!
And oh my god, the slow burn between the main characters?? Torturously perfect. Like… painfully slow in the best way. It simmers for so long that when something finally happens, it hits.
Also, can we talk about the moment when he — her captor — finds out she loves to read and gives her full access to his massive study full of books?? Like sir, you had me at “library.” Straight-up Beauty and the Beast vibes, and I am so here for it.
I would totally recommend if you’re into slow burn romance, enemies to lovers vibes, and just the right touch of fairytale energy.
And oh my god, the slow burn between the main characters?? Torturously perfect. Like… painfully slow in the best way. It simmers for so long that when something finally happens, it hits.
Also, can we talk about the moment when he — her captor — finds out she loves to read and gives her full access to his massive study full of books?? Like sir, you had me at “library.” Straight-up Beauty and the Beast vibes, and I am so here for it.
I would totally recommend if you’re into slow burn romance, enemies to lovers vibes, and just the right touch of fairytale energy.
November 9, 2025
“What was that?” A cruel grin appeared on his face. “That was just me playing nice. I can keep you pinned like that anytime. And trust me, I won’t hesitate to do it again if you think about running. Now, what is your name again?”
This book was a 5 stars for me! I read it after Alchemised and I loved the blend of magic with that fairy-tale touch the author infused beautifully!
“I came to see if you’d jumped,” he said, grinning.
“You're going to ruin whatever peaceful time remains in my rotting days, aren’t you?"
I loved loved loved Reagan, and can’t wait to read book two.
This book was a 5 stars for me! I read it after Alchemised and I loved the blend of magic with that fairy-tale touch the author infused beautifully!
“I came to see if you’d jumped,” he said, grinning.
“You're going to ruin whatever peaceful time remains in my rotting days, aren’t you?"
I loved loved loved Reagan, and can’t wait to read book two.
December 4, 2025
This was literally reheating acotars nacho's. I actually found it leaned heavier into that than doing something new twist on a Beauty and Beast retelling. It wasn't groundbreaking or doing anything different or unique in the romantasy genre. Same formula with the same copy and paste characters. While the writing was good, I felt like the dialogue was a little stiff. Honestly, I do feel like there's room to grow and the world building was great, so the bones are there and I haven't written off the series itself fully.
November 14, 2025
Thank you to NetGalley for allowing me to read this book early in exchange for an honest review!
Whelp. A lackluster addition to the romantasy subgenre that leaves me wanting… something else?
To be honest, there’s nothing new or profound here. The characters are all copycats of others from books you’ve already read, the tropes are overdone, the setting is familiar. The only thing I found oddly new was the dialogue, which felt strange and unattractive for the type of book I was reading.
I had to DNF at around the 25% mark.
I will say though, there is potential here. There is some fun world building, and the character interactions were sometimes quirky and enjoyable. It just wasn’t for me as it felt too overdone and rehashed from other books I thought had done it first or better.
Whelp. A lackluster addition to the romantasy subgenre that leaves me wanting… something else?
To be honest, there’s nothing new or profound here. The characters are all copycats of others from books you’ve already read, the tropes are overdone, the setting is familiar. The only thing I found oddly new was the dialogue, which felt strange and unattractive for the type of book I was reading.
I had to DNF at around the 25% mark.
I will say though, there is potential here. There is some fun world building, and the character interactions were sometimes quirky and enjoyable. It just wasn’t for me as it felt too overdone and rehashed from other books I thought had done it first or better.
May 16, 2025
I LOVED this fantasy romance. I loved the characters, connections, growth and the plot. I felt like it was so easy to follow along while also constantly keeping me on my toes. It was perfectly paced and the mage craft, court dynamics and the creatures were all intriguing to me. I could not put it down and I’m so excited to see what happens next🤩
August 5, 2025
Unique fae/human, Beauty and the Beast retelling. I enjoyed the differences in fae and human lands, the past wars between them and how the punishment for visiting was staying even longer for our FMC. I loved the tough but softy MMC and the relationship that bloomed between them. Several characters left me wanting to be friends!!
May 14, 2025
4.5 🌟
This book was such a fun and captivating read for me.
It took me a moment to get into the story, but once I did, I was hooked.
The writing style definitely screams fantasy and I could picture very vividly all the descriptions of places, people and scenes in general.
The slow burn was so good! The coming together of the main characters was perfection for me 💕
I do think some parts of the story reminded me a lot to other books with a similar storyline, but I appreciated the way it all worked out in the end.
I can’t wait for the next book!
P. S. Loved the pronunciation guide!
This book was such a fun and captivating read for me.
It took me a moment to get into the story, but once I did, I was hooked.
The writing style definitely screams fantasy and I could picture very vividly all the descriptions of places, people and scenes in general.
The slow burn was so good! The coming together of the main characters was perfection for me 💕
I do think some parts of the story reminded me a lot to other books with a similar storyline, but I appreciated the way it all worked out in the end.
I can’t wait for the next book!
P. S. Loved the pronunciation guide!
November 3, 2025
It was the cover that really caught my attention with this book, and i am an absolute sucker for beauty and the beast. But this reminded me so much of ACOTAR, I struggled to enjoy because it felt like I had already read it.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 101 reviews