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Wonderfully Wicked: Book 1 of The Virtuous Villains Series
"Sixteen-year-old Annalie thought life couldn’t get worse after her father was enchanted into marrying Elzbeth, a bewitching socialite. But when Annalie’s newfound magic reveals her stepmother’s true form-green skin and sinister illusions-she uncovers a deadly a trail of wealthy husbands, all dead-including her father.
Annalie sets out to uncover the truth of her stepmother’s murders before she strikes again. As she races to unravel the truth about Elzbeth’s agenda, she discovers that good and evil aren’t always what they seem."
Wonderfully Wicked is a YA Fantasy retelling of the Cinderella fairytale chock-full of magic, deception and twists that you never saw from the princess’s POV.
Dive into this story today to learn why no one can rewrite the stars. But the narrative? That’s a whole other story!
Annalie sets out to uncover the truth of her stepmother’s murders before she strikes again. As she races to unravel the truth about Elzbeth’s agenda, she discovers that good and evil aren’t always what they seem."
Wonderfully Wicked is a YA Fantasy retelling of the Cinderella fairytale chock-full of magic, deception and twists that you never saw from the princess’s POV.
Dive into this story today to learn why no one can rewrite the stars. But the narrative? That’s a whole other story!
360 pages, Paperback
Published November 13, 2025
About the author
Kamy M. Lavin
2 books48 followersKamy Lavin started creating imaginary friends and worlds at the age of three and hasn’t stopped since. She lives in Northern California with her amazing husband, two magical daughters and adorable fur babies. When she isn’t writing books, she can be found reading them and cosplaying as some of her favorite characters on social media.
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Displaying 1 - 20 of 20 reviews
December 24, 2025
From October 4th - 24th I read this novel 3 times!
It is such a great book, the retelling and changes to some of your favorite fairy tales! It is just so good, I cannot wait for more by Kamy! Job well done! So excited for release so I can get a physical copy 🥰🥰
This book is so many things, and unexpected wasn't one I thought it would be. The story is so well written and not your normal wicked stepmother book! This novel is dual POV so you see both sides, the daughter, and the stepmother as they travel through time and find things neither of them expected. I cannot wait for the rest of this series. Beyond proud and happy for the author. Job well done love!
Update, I have received my physical hardback copy and it is beautiful!
It is such a great book, the retelling and changes to some of your favorite fairy tales! It is just so good, I cannot wait for more by Kamy! Job well done! So excited for release so I can get a physical copy 🥰🥰
This book is so many things, and unexpected wasn't one I thought it would be. The story is so well written and not your normal wicked stepmother book! This novel is dual POV so you see both sides, the daughter, and the stepmother as they travel through time and find things neither of them expected. I cannot wait for the rest of this series. Beyond proud and happy for the author. Job well done love!
Update, I have received my physical hardback copy and it is beautiful!
November 18, 2025
No one can rewrite the stars. But the narrative? That's a whole other story!
This is an adventure I didn’t know I needed but now I can’t wait for the next book!
Everything you think you know about the story of Cinderella… chuck it out the window!
This book is a dual POV and we get to see the story through the stepmother and Cinderella’s sister. Annalie is a 16 year old girl that is brave, adventurous, and seeking justice for things she believes need justice.
Elzbeth is the villain…right?
Throw in a magic system that is interesting… friends/side characters that have main character energy… and an adventure that bends time and never ends up where you thought it was going.
I highly recommend this book! I couldn’t put it down and the characters stayed with me long after I finished the book. I can’t wait to tag along for the next adventure!
This is an adventure I didn’t know I needed but now I can’t wait for the next book!
Everything you think you know about the story of Cinderella… chuck it out the window!
This book is a dual POV and we get to see the story through the stepmother and Cinderella’s sister. Annalie is a 16 year old girl that is brave, adventurous, and seeking justice for things she believes need justice.
Elzbeth is the villain…right?
Throw in a magic system that is interesting… friends/side characters that have main character energy… and an adventure that bends time and never ends up where you thought it was going.
I highly recommend this book! I couldn’t put it down and the characters stayed with me long after I finished the book. I can’t wait to tag along for the next adventure!
November 18, 2025
Absolutely loved this retelling. The banter was chef's kiss, and the twist left me speechless.
May 18, 2026
Wonderfully Wicked by Kami Lavin is the kind of YA fantasy that grabs you by the collar from page one and refuses to let go. Lavin takes the familiar bones of the Cinderella tale and rebuilds them into something spellbinding, sinister, and deeply emotional—told from the point of view of a heroine who refuses to play the victim in her own story.
Sixteen-year-old Annalie is instantly relatable: smart, determined, and reeling from the heartbreak of watching her father fall under the spell of the dazzling—and dangerous—Elzbeth. But the moment Annalie’s magic awakens and reveals the truth beneath her stepmother’s perfect façade—green skin, eerie illusions, and a trail of dead wealthy husbands, her own father included—the story becomes an irresistible blend of mystery and magic.
Lavin’s pacing is perfection. Each chapter tightens the tension as Annalie ventures deeper into the web of lies surrounding Elzbeth. The worldbuilding is lush, the magic system intriguing, and the plot twists? Jaw-dropping. Just when you think you know who’s wicked and who’s good, Lavin flips the script in ways that feel both surprising and inevitable.
What truly elevates this retelling is its heart. Annalie’s journey isn’t just about unmasking a murderer—it’s about discovering her own strength, questioning the stories she’s been told, and learning that heroes and villains are rarely as clear-cut as fairy tales suggest.
This book is a brilliant reminder that while you may not be able to rewrite the stars, the narrative is yours for the taking.
If you’re looking for a YA fantasy packed with magic, deception, mystery, and a heroine worth rooting for, Wonderfully Wicked deserves a place at the very top of your TBR. I devoured it in one sitting—and I’d happily read it again.
Sixteen-year-old Annalie is instantly relatable: smart, determined, and reeling from the heartbreak of watching her father fall under the spell of the dazzling—and dangerous—Elzbeth. But the moment Annalie’s magic awakens and reveals the truth beneath her stepmother’s perfect façade—green skin, eerie illusions, and a trail of dead wealthy husbands, her own father included—the story becomes an irresistible blend of mystery and magic.
Lavin’s pacing is perfection. Each chapter tightens the tension as Annalie ventures deeper into the web of lies surrounding Elzbeth. The worldbuilding is lush, the magic system intriguing, and the plot twists? Jaw-dropping. Just when you think you know who’s wicked and who’s good, Lavin flips the script in ways that feel both surprising and inevitable.
What truly elevates this retelling is its heart. Annalie’s journey isn’t just about unmasking a murderer—it’s about discovering her own strength, questioning the stories she’s been told, and learning that heroes and villains are rarely as clear-cut as fairy tales suggest.
This book is a brilliant reminder that while you may not be able to rewrite the stars, the narrative is yours for the taking.
If you’re looking for a YA fantasy packed with magic, deception, mystery, and a heroine worth rooting for, Wonderfully Wicked deserves a place at the very top of your TBR. I devoured it in one sitting—and I’d happily read it again.
June 19, 2026
FINALLY I actually won a giveaway! Thank you, Goodreads! And I probably would never have read Wonderfully Wicked otherwise; I'm definitely a senior citizen rather than a Young Adult, and initially it seemed like this "fairy tale" was going to be a little silly and over the top
That said, I have enjoyed fantasy and fairy tales from childhood, and it turned out to not be such a stretch to get into this narrative after all! Skeptical in the early stages of reading, I thought the language was a little jerky and unpolished - and therefore offsetting. Now I don't know if Kamy Lavin "learned" to write better pretty quickly into the book OR if a spell captivated me pretty quickly... But somehow I found myself fully engaged and unable to put the book down within a few early chapters. And the story unfolds with perfectly satisfactory style and language.
It seems like Wonderfully Wicked includes every single fantasy and magical element ever dreamed up, and initially I wasn't sure if that was a good thing or too much; but hey, if you're going to go traipsing off into a fantasy, why hold back? And Lavin certainly manages to keep things moving and changing and surprising you through the entire book. Alternating between two points of view adds to the intrigue and seems to be a successful storytelling technique that increasingly adds to building up of suspense. When suddenly it's all over, I felt like the rug had been pulled out from under me - and I'm going to withhold final judgment on the book's ending; still trying to figure out myself what I think about that!
I will say I'm going to be waiting for the 2nd book in this series where a 3rd point of view is promised. And I'm just as glad it's not out yet, or I'd go another few days not getting anything done!
That said, I have enjoyed fantasy and fairy tales from childhood, and it turned out to not be such a stretch to get into this narrative after all! Skeptical in the early stages of reading, I thought the language was a little jerky and unpolished - and therefore offsetting. Now I don't know if Kamy Lavin "learned" to write better pretty quickly into the book OR if a spell captivated me pretty quickly... But somehow I found myself fully engaged and unable to put the book down within a few early chapters. And the story unfolds with perfectly satisfactory style and language.
It seems like Wonderfully Wicked includes every single fantasy and magical element ever dreamed up, and initially I wasn't sure if that was a good thing or too much; but hey, if you're going to go traipsing off into a fantasy, why hold back? And Lavin certainly manages to keep things moving and changing and surprising you through the entire book. Alternating between two points of view adds to the intrigue and seems to be a successful storytelling technique that increasingly adds to building up of suspense. When suddenly it's all over, I felt like the rug had been pulled out from under me - and I'm going to withhold final judgment on the book's ending; still trying to figure out myself what I think about that!
I will say I'm going to be waiting for the 2nd book in this series where a 3rd point of view is promised. And I'm just as glad it's not out yet, or I'd go another few days not getting anything done!
January 3, 2026
Incredibly unique very creative
This was so creative, like i really enjoyed this book. I really love how she put different fairytale characters, but she created her whole entire different world. She even rename them but were kind of similar to the original names, but different. I found that super cool and super creative. I also love how she uses real life people in real day reality. but created a story around it with made up names. So basically, a lot of abuse sex trafficking, but only it's different in that day. It's their parents doing the sex trafficking, they were monsters. It's so sad when you see fathers and men trafficking their daughters. It's disgusting It's disgusting to traffic anybody period. I love how there was books involved one magic book specifically and they where jumping in and out of the book. It took them to different places and the past as well as memories as well. I thought this was so well done.
It definitely leaves off at a cliffhanger. I was a little confused at the end. So I feel like I just need to allow it to sink in otherwise I loved it. So much it was actually kind of similar to wicked but completely different at the same time Loved it highly recommended it.
This was so creative, like i really enjoyed this book. I really love how she put different fairytale characters, but she created her whole entire different world. She even rename them but were kind of similar to the original names, but different. I found that super cool and super creative. I also love how she uses real life people in real day reality. but created a story around it with made up names. So basically, a lot of abuse sex trafficking, but only it's different in that day. It's their parents doing the sex trafficking, they were monsters. It's so sad when you see fathers and men trafficking their daughters. It's disgusting It's disgusting to traffic anybody period. I love how there was books involved one magic book specifically and they where jumping in and out of the book. It took them to different places and the past as well as memories as well. I thought this was so well done.
It definitely leaves off at a cliffhanger. I was a little confused at the end. So I feel like I just need to allow it to sink in otherwise I loved it. So much it was actually kind of similar to wicked but completely different at the same time Loved it highly recommended it.
March 8, 2026
A Wonderful Story Brought to Life by an Amazing Narration
Wonderfully Wicked is a clever and enchanting twist on the classic fairy-tale formula. Kamy Lavin takes familiar elements—stepmothers, magic, and hidden danger—and turns them into something fresh and suspenseful. Annalie is a strong and relatable heroine, and watching her slowly uncover the truth about her mysterious stepmother kept me hooked the entire time.
I both read the book and listened to the audiobook, and narrator Nancy Peterson does an incredible job bringing the story to life. Her performance adds so much personality to the characters and really captures the sense of wonder and tension as the mystery unfolds.
If you enjoy fairy-tale inspired fantasy with magic, intrigue, and a heroine you can root for, Wonderfully Wicked is a fantastic read and an incredible listen.
Wonderfully Wicked is a clever and enchanting twist on the classic fairy-tale formula. Kamy Lavin takes familiar elements—stepmothers, magic, and hidden danger—and turns them into something fresh and suspenseful. Annalie is a strong and relatable heroine, and watching her slowly uncover the truth about her mysterious stepmother kept me hooked the entire time.
I both read the book and listened to the audiobook, and narrator Nancy Peterson does an incredible job bringing the story to life. Her performance adds so much personality to the characters and really captures the sense of wonder and tension as the mystery unfolds.
If you enjoy fairy-tale inspired fantasy with magic, intrigue, and a heroine you can root for, Wonderfully Wicked is a fantastic read and an incredible listen.
December 10, 2025
This book was touted as a Cinderella retelling or a Wicked retailing but it is neither of those things.
It is its own beautiful story with strong characters, a complicated plot, and an interesting magic system.
What did I like about this book?
1. The cover is gorgeous.
2. I had no idea how the two stories were going to intersect but they slowly began to and it was fascinating, making the book more and more interesting.
What did I not like about this book? It ends on a cliffhanger and now I have to wait to find out what happens next!
It is its own beautiful story with strong characters, a complicated plot, and an interesting magic system.
What did I like about this book?
1. The cover is gorgeous.
2. I had no idea how the two stories were going to intersect but they slowly began to and it was fascinating, making the book more and more interesting.
What did I not like about this book? It ends on a cliffhanger and now I have to wait to find out what happens next!
January 4, 2026
Loved this book! Can’t wait for more in this series!
Anna is trying to figure out how to expose her stepmother Elzbeth’s secrets. Anna knows Elzbeth has been marrying men and murdering them including Anna’s father. The problem is Elzbeth has magic that makes it so that everyone thinks she is amazing and they will do anything she asks. Luckily, Anna has the ability to see through Magic and she can see things how they truly are.
Anna is trying to figure out how to expose her stepmother Elzbeth’s secrets. Anna knows Elzbeth has been marrying men and murdering them including Anna’s father. The problem is Elzbeth has magic that makes it so that everyone thinks she is amazing and they will do anything she asks. Luckily, Anna has the ability to see through Magic and she can see things how they truly are.
November 18, 2025
I can't give this book enough stars! A masterfully written Cinderella retelling with a WICKED twist! If you love fantasy, romance, mystery, dual POV, converging timelines, unexpected friendships and enemies in plain sight, and some very hidden evil ones.
The moral of the story? Beauty isn't just skin deep but ugly isn't either.
The moral of the story? Beauty isn't just skin deep but ugly isn't either.
November 18, 2025
Wonderfully Wicked is a fun twist on the Cinderella retelling! Morally grey characters, adventure, intrigue, all woven into an engaging tale that whirls you away! I so hope you pick this up and give it a try. You won't be disappointed!
June 12, 2026
I absolutely loved this book. All the characters from the Fairy Godmother to Annalie to Elzbeth, and all the others just made this story come to life. It is the best retelling that I've ever read, and I can't wait to read the second book to find out what happens next.
January 8, 2026
I really enjoyed this!!
January 21, 2026
I DNF at 45 % it just got so repetitive and I couldn’t handle it anymore .. found myself skipping chapters just to get to the end ..I feel this is just another Meh retelling
March 14, 2026
Interesting retelling of Cinderella and Wicked. The banter was perfect! Pay attention to the timelines or it could get a little mixed up while you’re reading. Huge cliffhanger, huge!
March 19, 2026
Loved this! This is an intricately woven tale with different point of views that will keep you guessing. I loved that women were fighting for women, that was hardcore. Can't wait for the next one 🩷💚
May 4, 2026
Well this was just such a fun read. Belinda was my absolute favorite. She's not so sweet, is she? I can't wait for book 2.
June 1, 2026
I really enjoyed this book. It was a great read
June 8, 2026
A super fun, fresh spin on Cinderella. It’s adventurous, intriguing, and honestly just a great reset after heavier books.
March 5, 2026
I did the audio book. It was fabulous! This is a twisty tale that’s been overdue. I loved it! It’s a twist you don’t want to miss!
Displaying 1 - 20 of 20 reviews