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These Vile Hearts
A delightfully wicked, fizzy debut romantasy--an enemies to lovers tale about a desperate mortal woman and a cursed fae prince
Maddox Sinclair has run out of options. No job means no health insurance —a death sentence for a type one diabetic like herself. She flees to the forest to make a desperate deal with a dryad kill the Redwood King and be cured of the illness that threatens her life.
In the redwood treetops, Prince Castor, is cursed-- anyone who loves him is doomed to die. Like Maddox, he has made an equally unwise pact with his brother, the Redwood get a mortal to fall in love with him by solstice and be free of his curse forever.
When Maddox mistakes Castor for the king, sparks fly and troubles ensue. Each must decide what is more important—survival and freedom, or the love they (kind of, almost) feel in their traitorous, vile hearts.
Darkly funny and brimming with magic, These Vile Hearts by Melody Robinette manages to be both wicked and warm, beguiling and moving—a richly woven story of survival and fate.
Maddox Sinclair has run out of options. No job means no health insurance —a death sentence for a type one diabetic like herself. She flees to the forest to make a desperate deal with a dryad kill the Redwood King and be cured of the illness that threatens her life.
In the redwood treetops, Prince Castor, is cursed-- anyone who loves him is doomed to die. Like Maddox, he has made an equally unwise pact with his brother, the Redwood get a mortal to fall in love with him by solstice and be free of his curse forever.
When Maddox mistakes Castor for the king, sparks fly and troubles ensue. Each must decide what is more important—survival and freedom, or the love they (kind of, almost) feel in their traitorous, vile hearts.
Darkly funny and brimming with magic, These Vile Hearts by Melody Robinette manages to be both wicked and warm, beguiling and moving—a richly woven story of survival and fate.
- GenresFantasy
Unknown Binding
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Displaying 1 - 26 of 26 reviews
January 2, 2026
These Vile Hearts is a fantastic new romantasy novel about a 26-year-old type one diabetic, Maddox, who has no choice but to make a deal with a dryad in order to survive. The terms of the deal? She must kill the Redwood King. The issue is that she mistakes the King’s cursed brother, Prince Castor, for the king and sets out to kill him instead. Conveniently, Prince Castor (whose powers remind me of Slade from The Plated Prisoner) is looking for a mortal to break his curse. I won’t spoil anything that you couldn’t get from the book description, but the way that it plays out is INCREDIBLE!!
Not only did this book have a fascinating world (I mean hey… they are literally in the trees), but the whole magic system was so cool !!! I’ve never read a book with dryads, but I can definitely say that Melody Robinette knows how to write a good one! The main character was also very different from your typical romantasy FMC which was refreshing to read. It really put into perspective the life of someone with type one diabetes as well.
The book ends in a way where the story is complete, but there was also certain aspects that I could see being turned into a follow-up book. Personally, I hope to see more 🤩 5/5 stars. I would definitely recommend!
Thank you to NetGalley, Putnam Books, and Melody Robinette for this digital ARC in exchange for an honest review :)
Not only did this book have a fascinating world (I mean hey… they are literally in the trees), but the whole magic system was so cool !!! I’ve never read a book with dryads, but I can definitely say that Melody Robinette knows how to write a good one! The main character was also very different from your typical romantasy FMC which was refreshing to read. It really put into perspective the life of someone with type one diabetes as well.
The book ends in a way where the story is complete, but there was also certain aspects that I could see being turned into a follow-up book. Personally, I hope to see more 🤩 5/5 stars. I would definitely recommend!
Thank you to NetGalley, Putnam Books, and Melody Robinette for this digital ARC in exchange for an honest review :)
January 23, 2026
i enjoyed this! i think the pacing could use some work as the beginning dragged and the ending felt rushed. i liked the main characters, but felt like castor needed to be fleshed out a bit more. i don’t think his motivations made a lot of sense.
**ARC provided by netgalley**
**ARC provided by netgalley**
December 19, 2025
A unique story about dryads who live in trees deep within the forest. The human FMC is diabetic and struggles to cope with her health after losing her job and, with it, her medical insurance. Desperate, she makes a deal with a queen: assassinate the king in exchange for a cure. As layers of deceit unfold, the most important truth to uncover is the fate of the FMC’s own heart.
I loved this story because it kept me engaged with every turn of the page. This story was like no other I have read before.
I loved this story because it kept me engaged with every turn of the page. This story was like no other I have read before.
December 9, 2025
I didn’t know what to expect going into this one, and I’m very surprised by how much I liked it.
We have modern, real life concepts mixed into a fantasy world where things are and aren’t always what they seem. I really liked the dynamic this created in the book. It makes the world feel very lived in and real rather than this abstract idea that’s hard to grasp. Even if you’ve never come across dryad’s before (I’m sorry if I spelled it wrong), you can still easily follow the book and story because it feels so approachable.
I must say, I also love the concept of this book. Take a regular, desperate woman and see what happens when you turn her into the opposite of what she normally is. Basically, will desperation lead her to come a killer, going against everything she has ever believed in. This idea is really at the heart of this story that’s overall very whimsical yet gritty. The message we have underneath is not overbearing but it certainly causes you to think and question what you would do in her situation.
Oh, and there’s an incredible romance storyline as well that had me eating out of its hand.
Thank you so much to Putnam and NetGalley for an arc of this book in exchange for an honest review!
We have modern, real life concepts mixed into a fantasy world where things are and aren’t always what they seem. I really liked the dynamic this created in the book. It makes the world feel very lived in and real rather than this abstract idea that’s hard to grasp. Even if you’ve never come across dryad’s before (I’m sorry if I spelled it wrong), you can still easily follow the book and story because it feels so approachable.
I must say, I also love the concept of this book. Take a regular, desperate woman and see what happens when you turn her into the opposite of what she normally is. Basically, will desperation lead her to come a killer, going against everything she has ever believed in. This idea is really at the heart of this story that’s overall very whimsical yet gritty. The message we have underneath is not overbearing but it certainly causes you to think and question what you would do in her situation.
Oh, and there’s an incredible romance storyline as well that had me eating out of its hand.
Thank you so much to Putnam and NetGalley for an arc of this book in exchange for an honest review!
December 13, 2025
As a fellow type 1 diabetic, I adore this novel, and as a romantasy reader, its a solid read!
Castor isn't your average morally grey hottie. He's emotional and wounded, and the chapters from his perspective show how he struggles to balance his curse and the rest of his life.
Maddox's humor shines through her struggles, and the understanding and found-family they find in each other will warm your heart...before another twist will break it.
Thank you to Melody Robinette, Putnam | G.P. Putnam's Sons, and NetGalley for the opportunity to read this ARC!
Castor isn't your average morally grey hottie. He's emotional and wounded, and the chapters from his perspective show how he struggles to balance his curse and the rest of his life.
Maddox's humor shines through her struggles, and the understanding and found-family they find in each other will warm your heart...before another twist will break it.
Thank you to Melody Robinette, Putnam | G.P. Putnam's Sons, and NetGalley for the opportunity to read this ARC!
January 1, 2026
I tagged this for spoilers, but I don't really think I gave spoilers, but I didn't mention some events but without trying to spoiler.
Thank you to author Melody Robinette, GP Putnam's Sons publishing for allowing me to read this book.
Excellence.
I will say right now that this opening chapter is one of the best opening chapters I've ever read. And, one of the best bits of writing I've ever read.
Fantasy done right. The author seems to prefer the category of speculative fiction.
What works for me? Almost everything. This is extremely well written, extremely well plotted.
My biggest criticism in structure wise was the plot device to get the best friend out of the picture. If they were the ride and die, best friends as described, I don't understand why he would leave her to basically die because she didn't have any resources to survive at that point. But again there had to be a catalyst for her behavior. I suppose we could say that she didn't tell him how dire things were, but they have been best friends much of their life. I can't imagine that he couldn't figure it out.
Absolutely ready for publishing. If it had any typos, errors, or continuity issues I did not see them.
Now for my personal likes or dislikes and then a conclusion.
Love the FMC. She's fabulously flawed, strong, weak, indecisive, assertive.
The MMC is not for me. He's very much a beta male in many ways. That does not mean he is not a great character.
I see very much the flipped script here with the gender roles. The MMC very much carries the naïve and innocent baggage that you sometimes see in FMCs and the FMC is very much the stoic but smart mouth morally gray hero.
I figured out immediately was going on with the curse.
I also figured out immediately why the murderers at the beginning of the story told the FMC you're welcome.
I don't necessarily think that was weak writing, but it was easy to figure out. There were no surprises. But I don't always like plot twists for the sake of plot twists. I'd rather enjoy the story knowing what was happening than get slapped with a plot twist that leaves me angry because it was added for shock value.
I did not like the resolution for the FMC pact and how she was granted her request. Of course, we knew that there was going to be a it's not going happen like the FMC thinks it's going to happen to that because the Myrtle queen was not trustworthy and this was very much a "don't trust the Fae" type story.
Based on the ending, I'm assuming this is going to be the first book in a series, but I didn't see any mention of this being book one or anything. All that said I'm not really interested in a series of this, because it's just going to be a case of romantic fantasy further adventures. I'll not be continuing reading a series of this even though this book is extremely good. It could've been wrapped up nicely here in this book and it wasn't.
,
Thank you to author Melody Robinette, GP Putnam's Sons publishing for allowing me to read this book.
Excellence.
I will say right now that this opening chapter is one of the best opening chapters I've ever read. And, one of the best bits of writing I've ever read.
Fantasy done right. The author seems to prefer the category of speculative fiction.
What works for me? Almost everything. This is extremely well written, extremely well plotted.
My biggest criticism in structure wise was the plot device to get the best friend out of the picture. If they were the ride and die, best friends as described, I don't understand why he would leave her to basically die because she didn't have any resources to survive at that point. But again there had to be a catalyst for her behavior. I suppose we could say that she didn't tell him how dire things were, but they have been best friends much of their life. I can't imagine that he couldn't figure it out.
Absolutely ready for publishing. If it had any typos, errors, or continuity issues I did not see them.
Now for my personal likes or dislikes and then a conclusion.
Love the FMC. She's fabulously flawed, strong, weak, indecisive, assertive.
The MMC is not for me. He's very much a beta male in many ways. That does not mean he is not a great character.
I see very much the flipped script here with the gender roles. The MMC very much carries the naïve and innocent baggage that you sometimes see in FMCs and the FMC is very much the stoic but smart mouth morally gray hero.
I figured out immediately was going on with the curse.
I also figured out immediately why the murderers at the beginning of the story told the FMC you're welcome.
I don't necessarily think that was weak writing, but it was easy to figure out. There were no surprises. But I don't always like plot twists for the sake of plot twists. I'd rather enjoy the story knowing what was happening than get slapped with a plot twist that leaves me angry because it was added for shock value.
I did not like the resolution for the FMC pact and how she was granted her request. Of course, we knew that there was going to be a it's not going happen like the FMC thinks it's going to happen to that because the Myrtle queen was not trustworthy and this was very much a "don't trust the Fae" type story.
Based on the ending, I'm assuming this is going to be the first book in a series, but I didn't see any mention of this being book one or anything. All that said I'm not really interested in a series of this, because it's just going to be a case of romantic fantasy further adventures. I'll not be continuing reading a series of this even though this book is extremely good. It could've been wrapped up nicely here in this book and it wasn't.
,
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 12, 2025
“No one warned me how hard homicide could be.”
😅😅😅😅😅😅
First of all, this book was hilarious. The banter and just general attitudes of our main characters…chef’s kiss 😚 I want to quote about twenty lines from this story, but I’ll leave it at only a few.
My summary:
FMC: “If anyone looked closely, they would see the hollows of the girl’s cheeks, the thinness of her arms. As if the strength of her body had been stolen by her eyes.”
Maddox, our spicy, moody, twenty-something female lead is desperate to acquire some kind of stability with her diabetes. She has no family, no job, no insurance, and severe blood sugar issues. So, rationally, she decides to step into the world of dryads (a new world for me) and make a fae deal that she believes is air tight and will cure her lifelong, life-dependent, disease.
The only catch? Murder is required and though she has become pretty emotionally stunted and cold, she’s not 100% sure she can commit cold-blooded murder, even if she does despise the dryads as a whole - they left her in her current state of desperation after all.
MMC: “That’s because wine is the love of my life.”
Meet Castor, our dark, emotional, dryad who prince who cares too much and too little at the same time. Leading a cursed life has left him without any real expectation for happiness in life, so he flits around the redwood forest leaving rot, smoke, and broken hearts in his wake. But when a certain red-head shows up in his palace and could break his curse once and for all, does he risk entertaining real feelings to finally find himself free?
🖤
These two are perfectly vile, yet search for the good in each other and their tragedies and traumas lead them into an absolute mess of a romance. Immediately I was drawn in by all of the secrets, bargains, and high-fantasy world building. I got vibes from Moulin Rouge, Caraval, Phantom of the Opera, Romeo and Juliet, and Beauty and the Beast (make that lots of beasts).
And did I mention how often I laughed? There is probably nothing I love more than good humor and believable chemistry in a novel, and These Vile Hearts had both in spades!!
♠️
I have been so lucky lately with the ARCs I have chosen on NetGalley. So a big thank you to NetGalley, Kindle, and Melody for this exquisite preview! I loved this book and already feel a desperate need for a sequel!! The ending might have gutted me, but in a way that left me satisfied that another great story is on the horizon. Plus, it’s never REALLY the end with Fae, right?! 😉
😅😅😅😅😅😅
First of all, this book was hilarious. The banter and just general attitudes of our main characters…chef’s kiss 😚 I want to quote about twenty lines from this story, but I’ll leave it at only a few.
My summary:
FMC: “If anyone looked closely, they would see the hollows of the girl’s cheeks, the thinness of her arms. As if the strength of her body had been stolen by her eyes.”
Maddox, our spicy, moody, twenty-something female lead is desperate to acquire some kind of stability with her diabetes. She has no family, no job, no insurance, and severe blood sugar issues. So, rationally, she decides to step into the world of dryads (a new world for me) and make a fae deal that she believes is air tight and will cure her lifelong, life-dependent, disease.
The only catch? Murder is required and though she has become pretty emotionally stunted and cold, she’s not 100% sure she can commit cold-blooded murder, even if she does despise the dryads as a whole - they left her in her current state of desperation after all.
MMC: “That’s because wine is the love of my life.”
Meet Castor, our dark, emotional, dryad who prince who cares too much and too little at the same time. Leading a cursed life has left him without any real expectation for happiness in life, so he flits around the redwood forest leaving rot, smoke, and broken hearts in his wake. But when a certain red-head shows up in his palace and could break his curse once and for all, does he risk entertaining real feelings to finally find himself free?
🖤
These two are perfectly vile, yet search for the good in each other and their tragedies and traumas lead them into an absolute mess of a romance. Immediately I was drawn in by all of the secrets, bargains, and high-fantasy world building. I got vibes from Moulin Rouge, Caraval, Phantom of the Opera, Romeo and Juliet, and Beauty and the Beast (make that lots of beasts).
And did I mention how often I laughed? There is probably nothing I love more than good humor and believable chemistry in a novel, and These Vile Hearts had both in spades!!
♠️
I have been so lucky lately with the ARCs I have chosen on NetGalley. So a big thank you to NetGalley, Kindle, and Melody for this exquisite preview! I loved this book and already feel a desperate need for a sequel!! The ending might have gutted me, but in a way that left me satisfied that another great story is on the horizon. Plus, it’s never REALLY the end with Fae, right?! 😉
November 19, 2025
I was completely captivated by These Vile Hearts. This book is a fresh and exciting take on the human in a fae world trope, blending familiar elements with inventive details that make it stand out. From the start, the author crafts a world that feels both unique and accessible. The world-building is rich, thoughtful, and immersive, without ever feeling overwhelming.
What really struck me was the character of Maddox. She’s both powerful and vulnerable, a perfect balance that makes her incredibly compelling. Her emotional depth adds layers to the story, making her journey all the more engaging.
While the story follows some well-known fantasy beats, the intricate details and unique twists kept me hooked until the very end. This isn’t just another fae novel. These Vile Hearts is a beautiful blend of romance, fantasy, and self-discovery that feels both timeless and fresh. With a clear message of be careful what you wish for.
Highly recommend this to any fan of romantasy! I can’t wait for the rest of the world to experience it.
Thank you to the author and publisher for providing an early copy in exchange for an honest review.
What really struck me was the character of Maddox. She’s both powerful and vulnerable, a perfect balance that makes her incredibly compelling. Her emotional depth adds layers to the story, making her journey all the more engaging.
While the story follows some well-known fantasy beats, the intricate details and unique twists kept me hooked until the very end. This isn’t just another fae novel. These Vile Hearts is a beautiful blend of romance, fantasy, and self-discovery that feels both timeless and fresh. With a clear message of be careful what you wish for.
Highly recommend this to any fan of romantasy! I can’t wait for the rest of the world to experience it.
Thank you to the author and publisher for providing an early copy in exchange for an honest review.
November 11, 2025
First off I loved the plot. The twist and turns. FMC struggling because she didn’t know what to do to save herself. The quest the buildup. The adventure of searching. The prince so good! Can’t wait to know more! -Kerin Ray
January 29, 2026
3.5⭐️
I liked but didn’t love this book. It does have a lot going for it though and I’ll definitely check out the sequel.
First thank you to GP Putnam’s Sons, NetGalley, and Melody Robinette for the eARC, all opinions are my own.
Maddox is type 1 diabetic whose only found family is leaving her for the big city. With no job, no money, and no family she makes a deal with the dryad queen, kill the Redwood dryad king and be free of worrying about T1D. Castor is cursed Redwood prince, who is doomed to watch those who say they love him die. I’ll leave it at that for now.
I will say I enjoyed Maddox for most part though her lack of foresight or ability to stop and think at times was frustrating (who could have seen her bargain going sideways…except she really should have). I have seen some other reviews criticize who they felt Maddox’s constant mentions of T1D or need for insulin/sugar as too much, but I thought it was great representation (disclosure I don’t have T1D but the author does and I trust her lived experiences). Maddox is living in healthcare nightmare, without access to best tools, her inner thoughts reflect that and given the author has T1D she would know how much brain energy would need to be dedicated to managing it.
Despite dual POV I feel like we never really got to know Castor as well as I would have liked. I want to know more about his backstory etc.
I have two critique issues. First is world building needs a bit more to it. A number of things are mentioned offhand but never really explained enough for me. Do all dryad’s have magic or just royals? What kinds of powers do they have? We get vague references to Unseelie vs Seelie but not enough to really define what makes Unseelie bad in this world. Nor do we get any real info on “the sight”. There are more examples too but I feel like adding little more to these areas would really flesh out the world that Maddox is thrown into and make it seem more alive.
The other issue is the ending. I think the last 15% is far too rushed (as is the part of it that sets up a sequel). Honestly, I think this could be excellent standalone with bit more world building and bit more time to let ending land (and minus the obvious Dryad Queen betrayal; it’s so obvious from the start it’s not even a spoiler).
That said I did enjoy it and it’s quick read and I’ll definitely read sequel.
I liked but didn’t love this book. It does have a lot going for it though and I’ll definitely check out the sequel.
First thank you to GP Putnam’s Sons, NetGalley, and Melody Robinette for the eARC, all opinions are my own.
Maddox is type 1 diabetic whose only found family is leaving her for the big city. With no job, no money, and no family she makes a deal with the dryad queen, kill the Redwood dryad king and be free of worrying about T1D. Castor is cursed Redwood prince, who is doomed to watch those who say they love him die. I’ll leave it at that for now.
I will say I enjoyed Maddox for most part though her lack of foresight or ability to stop and think at times was frustrating (who could have seen her bargain going sideways…except she really should have). I have seen some other reviews criticize who they felt Maddox’s constant mentions of T1D or need for insulin/sugar as too much, but I thought it was great representation (disclosure I don’t have T1D but the author does and I trust her lived experiences). Maddox is living in healthcare nightmare, without access to best tools, her inner thoughts reflect that and given the author has T1D she would know how much brain energy would need to be dedicated to managing it.
Despite dual POV I feel like we never really got to know Castor as well as I would have liked. I want to know more about his backstory etc.
I have two critique issues. First is world building needs a bit more to it. A number of things are mentioned offhand but never really explained enough for me. Do all dryad’s have magic or just royals? What kinds of powers do they have? We get vague references to Unseelie vs Seelie but not enough to really define what makes Unseelie bad in this world. Nor do we get any real info on “the sight”. There are more examples too but I feel like adding little more to these areas would really flesh out the world that Maddox is thrown into and make it seem more alive.
The other issue is the ending. I think the last 15% is far too rushed (as is the part of it that sets up a sequel). Honestly, I think this could be excellent standalone with bit more world building and bit more time to let ending land (and minus the obvious Dryad Queen betrayal; it’s so obvious from the start it’s not even a spoiler).
That said I did enjoy it and it’s quick read and I’ll definitely read sequel.
January 29, 2026
Thank you NetGalley and Putnam Books for sending this book for review consideration. All opinions are my own
“I have roots in so many places, it’s been impossible for me to grow.”
I enjoyed this book very much even though it was heavier than I was led to believe from the book summary. The main characters are nuanced and interesting, and the relationships that they strike have more depth than they give themselves credit for, given that they both are pretty wrapped up in their own misery (understandably). The pacing of the plot is realistic, and the author’s writing is so beautiful, reaching into prose at times. While I don’t ever highlight my books, I found myself taking screen caps and highlighting left and right.
“… he’s wearing the same expression a guilty dog makes when they’ve been caught routing through the garbage. Tail between legs. Upturned eyebrows. Avoidant eyes. Trash everywhere. I’m the trash.”
Through Maddox, we see the additional layers of struggle that being chronically ill and medically dependent bring to isolated poverty. Her desperation drives her to make an equally desperate deal with the infamous dryad queen. She must kill the Redwood king in order to be cured of her Type 1 diabetes. This task hangs over her throughout most of the book and furthers her sense of isolation despite finally finding kinship with Castor. As Castor is keeping his own desperate deal a secret, he and Maddox unknowingly have much in common.
Castor and Maddox both use dark humor and deflection to cope with their difficult circumstances, adding some levity to an otherwise heavy story. Additionally, the detailed and whimsical settings that the author describes encourages the reader to envision themselves exploring the space on their own in lighter circumstances.
Add this book to your tbr! I recommend you read it when you are in the mood to visit with despair, just for a bit, with the promise that things will get better in the end.
“I have roots in so many places, it’s been impossible for me to grow.”
I enjoyed this book very much even though it was heavier than I was led to believe from the book summary. The main characters are nuanced and interesting, and the relationships that they strike have more depth than they give themselves credit for, given that they both are pretty wrapped up in their own misery (understandably). The pacing of the plot is realistic, and the author’s writing is so beautiful, reaching into prose at times. While I don’t ever highlight my books, I found myself taking screen caps and highlighting left and right.
“… he’s wearing the same expression a guilty dog makes when they’ve been caught routing through the garbage. Tail between legs. Upturned eyebrows. Avoidant eyes. Trash everywhere. I’m the trash.”
Through Maddox, we see the additional layers of struggle that being chronically ill and medically dependent bring to isolated poverty. Her desperation drives her to make an equally desperate deal with the infamous dryad queen. She must kill the Redwood king in order to be cured of her Type 1 diabetes. This task hangs over her throughout most of the book and furthers her sense of isolation despite finally finding kinship with Castor. As Castor is keeping his own desperate deal a secret, he and Maddox unknowingly have much in common.
Castor and Maddox both use dark humor and deflection to cope with their difficult circumstances, adding some levity to an otherwise heavy story. Additionally, the detailed and whimsical settings that the author describes encourages the reader to envision themselves exploring the space on their own in lighter circumstances.
Add this book to your tbr! I recommend you read it when you are in the mood to visit with despair, just for a bit, with the promise that things will get better in the end.
November 22, 2025
3.5 ⭐️ for me.
I feel like I’ve read more than my fair share of romantasy in recent years. I liked the original aspect of this story- dryads were totally new to me. I liked learning about a new magic system and the structure of their society, as well as all the different types of creatures that lived there.
However, I felt like there was too much emphasis on Maddox’s disease. I understand that that was perhaps the point, the all-consuming effort it takes to manage type 1 diabetes, but it distracted me from the story at points. I do feel like some of the diabetes “lingo” the author uses might be confusing to someone non-medical or not familiar with T1D, something to consider in edits. While seeking a cure was obviously Maddox’s main motivation for the choices she made, sometimes it overpowered the other parts of the plot.
I also wish that Maddox had learned the truth about the true king earlier in the story. It just felt like Castor’s ruse dragged on and on, which led to a lot of action packed into the last 20% of the book. At points, the pacing felt off. We spent the first 1.5 weeks drinking coffee and working at Magesté, but crammed all of the important events to really move the story along at the end.
This was a really unique romantasy, which I really appreciated. I feel like it can be challenging to find a totally unique idea now, but the author really surprised me with her world building and the magic system in her world. Despite some pacing problems, it was a fairly quick read. I liked how Castor and Maddox took their time to slowly get to know each other, and I look forward to their next story! I loved their banter and watching their dynamic change over the course of the story.
Thanks to NetGalley for this ARC!
I feel like I’ve read more than my fair share of romantasy in recent years. I liked the original aspect of this story- dryads were totally new to me. I liked learning about a new magic system and the structure of their society, as well as all the different types of creatures that lived there.
However, I felt like there was too much emphasis on Maddox’s disease. I understand that that was perhaps the point, the all-consuming effort it takes to manage type 1 diabetes, but it distracted me from the story at points. I do feel like some of the diabetes “lingo” the author uses might be confusing to someone non-medical or not familiar with T1D, something to consider in edits. While seeking a cure was obviously Maddox’s main motivation for the choices she made, sometimes it overpowered the other parts of the plot.
I also wish that Maddox had learned the truth about the true king earlier in the story. It just felt like Castor’s ruse dragged on and on, which led to a lot of action packed into the last 20% of the book. At points, the pacing felt off. We spent the first 1.5 weeks drinking coffee and working at Magesté, but crammed all of the important events to really move the story along at the end.
This was a really unique romantasy, which I really appreciated. I feel like it can be challenging to find a totally unique idea now, but the author really surprised me with her world building and the magic system in her world. Despite some pacing problems, it was a fairly quick read. I liked how Castor and Maddox took their time to slowly get to know each other, and I look forward to their next story! I loved their banter and watching their dynamic change over the course of the story.
Thanks to NetGalley for this ARC!
December 8, 2025
Things I really liked:
1. The FMC is dealing with an actual life-or-death issue. She is legitimately desperate, and that makes the bargain she seeks with the Myrtle Queen much more believable.
2. Dryads!
3. Neither the FMC nor the MMC is necessarily a "good" being, but neither are they bad, and they each seek out and amplify the good in the other. (Honestly, just about everyone in this book is vile in some way or another.)
Maddox's diabetes is PERVASIVE throughout the entire book, which seems overwhelming and redundant but also purposeful (it's not like a person with type 1 diabetes ever gets to stop being reminded of it, right?). She is constantly making adjustments with food or insulin and worrying about how much insulin she has left. She's increasingly desperate, which drives her to make a pact with the Myrtle Queen that requires her to murder the Redwood King. Enter Castor, the cursed prince, who Maddox mistakenly believes to be the king. Castor has made his own pact, and to meet his end of the bargain, he has to get a human to fall in love with him (and subsequently die). Who better than the woman who tried to stab him with a golden dagger during their first meeting?
I really enjoyed this book, but felt like the conclusion was rushed and less than satisfying. This is billed as romantasy, but it does not meet the HEA or HFN requirements of the romance part of that equation, so beware. The things left unresolved at the end basically shout that there will be at least a sequel, if not a series.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for an ARC of this book.
1. The FMC is dealing with an actual life-or-death issue. She is legitimately desperate, and that makes the bargain she seeks with the Myrtle Queen much more believable.
2. Dryads!
3. Neither the FMC nor the MMC is necessarily a "good" being, but neither are they bad, and they each seek out and amplify the good in the other. (Honestly, just about everyone in this book is vile in some way or another.)
Maddox's diabetes is PERVASIVE throughout the entire book, which seems overwhelming and redundant but also purposeful (it's not like a person with type 1 diabetes ever gets to stop being reminded of it, right?). She is constantly making adjustments with food or insulin and worrying about how much insulin she has left. She's increasingly desperate, which drives her to make a pact with the Myrtle Queen that requires her to murder the Redwood King. Enter Castor, the cursed prince, who Maddox mistakenly believes to be the king. Castor has made his own pact, and to meet his end of the bargain, he has to get a human to fall in love with him (and subsequently die). Who better than the woman who tried to stab him with a golden dagger during their first meeting?
I really enjoyed this book, but felt like the conclusion was rushed and less than satisfying. This is billed as romantasy, but it does not meet the HEA or HFN requirements of the romance part of that equation, so beware. The things left unresolved at the end basically shout that there will be at least a sequel, if not a series.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for an ARC of this book.
December 14, 2025
3.5/5
Thank you Putnam Books and NetGalley for the opportunity to read and review this book.
Overall, I enjoyed getting to know Maddox and Castor. I loved Tamarind as a secondary character. I’m not sure if this counts as an urban fantasy because very little time is spent in the modern human world but type 1 diabetes is absolutely a human disease and it is most definitely talked about continuously throughout the story because Maddox is a type 1 diabetic that is struggling to care for herself due to losing her job. In some ways, the talk of her illness does overshadow the other major plot points. I do like that the reader can feel her desperation and desire to be cured through the writing.
The world building in terms of how the dryads live, what family trees are and how the lineages work was quite confusing in the beginning. I feel like a better explanation of the world and how the fae and humans live together in the same world but separately should’ve happened earlier in the book.
The chemistry between Maddox and Castor felt forced, which makes sense for most of the book, but there didn’t really feel like there was clear timing for when the enemies would become lovers. I would not consider this book a Romantasy because there was not a lot of actual romance.
I struggled getting into the book and wanting to read it because of the pace. However, I enjoyed it overall and would absolutely read a second book so that I can follow Castor and Maddox on their journey.
Thank you Putnam Books and NetGalley for the opportunity to read and review this book.
Overall, I enjoyed getting to know Maddox and Castor. I loved Tamarind as a secondary character. I’m not sure if this counts as an urban fantasy because very little time is spent in the modern human world but type 1 diabetes is absolutely a human disease and it is most definitely talked about continuously throughout the story because Maddox is a type 1 diabetic that is struggling to care for herself due to losing her job. In some ways, the talk of her illness does overshadow the other major plot points. I do like that the reader can feel her desperation and desire to be cured through the writing.
The world building in terms of how the dryads live, what family trees are and how the lineages work was quite confusing in the beginning. I feel like a better explanation of the world and how the fae and humans live together in the same world but separately should’ve happened earlier in the book.
The chemistry between Maddox and Castor felt forced, which makes sense for most of the book, but there didn’t really feel like there was clear timing for when the enemies would become lovers. I would not consider this book a Romantasy because there was not a lot of actual romance.
I struggled getting into the book and wanting to read it because of the pace. However, I enjoyed it overall and would absolutely read a second book so that I can follow Castor and Maddox on their journey.
January 10, 2026
These Vile Hearts by Melody Robinette
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Finished: 01/09
Let’s dive right into this unique romantasy.
Maddox is barely surviving life with Type 1 diabetes. When she loses her job—and with it, her insurance—she’s suddenly faced with an impossible reality: how does she afford the insulin and supplies that keep her alive?
When her best friend follows through on their plan to move to California, leaving Maddox behind, desperation pushes her toward an unthinkable solution. Maddox seeks out a dryad queen, willing to make a dangerous pact in the hope of being freed from her disease.
Castor is a dryad prince bound by a curse he never asked for. Anyone who loves him meets an untimely end. Longing for release, his brother strikes a bargain meant to finally rid Castor of this fate. But is it really that easy?
But as the saying goes—you should never trust a dryad.
When Maddox and Castor cross paths, readers are pulled into a story woven with lies, longing, love, and rich folklore. The world-building is beautifully done, blending magic seamlessly into our own reality. The characters stirred a wide range of emotions for me—some instantly lovable, others undeniably frustrating in the best way.
This was a compelling, thoughtfully written romantasy that left me invested from start to finish.
Thank you to #NetGalley for the opportunity to read an advanced digital copy in exchange for an honest review.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Finished: 01/09
Let’s dive right into this unique romantasy.
Maddox is barely surviving life with Type 1 diabetes. When she loses her job—and with it, her insurance—she’s suddenly faced with an impossible reality: how does she afford the insulin and supplies that keep her alive?
When her best friend follows through on their plan to move to California, leaving Maddox behind, desperation pushes her toward an unthinkable solution. Maddox seeks out a dryad queen, willing to make a dangerous pact in the hope of being freed from her disease.
Castor is a dryad prince bound by a curse he never asked for. Anyone who loves him meets an untimely end. Longing for release, his brother strikes a bargain meant to finally rid Castor of this fate. But is it really that easy?
But as the saying goes—you should never trust a dryad.
When Maddox and Castor cross paths, readers are pulled into a story woven with lies, longing, love, and rich folklore. The world-building is beautifully done, blending magic seamlessly into our own reality. The characters stirred a wide range of emotions for me—some instantly lovable, others undeniably frustrating in the best way.
This was a compelling, thoughtfully written romantasy that left me invested from start to finish.
Thank you to #NetGalley for the opportunity to read an advanced digital copy in exchange for an honest review.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Thank you to G.P. Putnam’s Sons Publishing/Penguin Random House and NetGalley for the ARC. All opinions in this review are my own.
Let me get this out of the way…King Durien Sempervirens and Queen Amanita Umbellularia are, in my opinion, terrible names even in light of the fact that they are completely made up. I snickered every time I saw them on the page. It made it extremely difficult for me to take seriously.
This book had an original premise which I enjoyed, however it seems like the author is fantastic at “showing” us the people and situations, but sometimes I felt they were just throwing nice words together that didn’t always make sense.
The timeline gets a bit off at places which was confusing, if not irksome, occasionally. However, the pacing of the story itself was done well. And this is the way to write slow-burn romance! At the risk of sounding old-fashioned the story required them to woo each other. It will all make sense when you read it, I just don’t want to give too much away, but it gave depth that could have been lacking.
The found family aspect was superb, and the illness/curse of the main characters was fully explored and drove the story well, as did the rest of their arcs.
This was not a bad outing for the author, and I was entertained, but if there were a sequel I don’t think I would wait around for it.
Let me get this out of the way…King Durien Sempervirens and Queen Amanita Umbellularia are, in my opinion, terrible names even in light of the fact that they are completely made up. I snickered every time I saw them on the page. It made it extremely difficult for me to take seriously.
This book had an original premise which I enjoyed, however it seems like the author is fantastic at “showing” us the people and situations, but sometimes I felt they were just throwing nice words together that didn’t always make sense.
The timeline gets a bit off at places which was confusing, if not irksome, occasionally. However, the pacing of the story itself was done well. And this is the way to write slow-burn romance! At the risk of sounding old-fashioned the story required them to woo each other. It will all make sense when you read it, I just don’t want to give too much away, but it gave depth that could have been lacking.
The found family aspect was superb, and the illness/curse of the main characters was fully explored and drove the story well, as did the rest of their arcs.
This was not a bad outing for the author, and I was entertained, but if there were a sequel I don’t think I would wait around for it.
November 22, 2025
These Vile Hearts was such a fantastic romantasy debut, honestly way better than I even expected. It’s darkly funny, a little chaotic, and packed with some of the best banter I’ve read in a while. Maddox is a total badass! She is fierce, determined, and dealing with real stakes as a mortal with type one diabetes. I loved how her strength wasn’t just physical or magical; she’s sharp and smart and refuses to back down. And Castor is the cursed fae prince with charm, vulnerability, and just the right amount of mischief. Together, Maddox and Castor have this electric, shouldn’t want each other but do kind of energy that makes every scene between them so fun.
I think what makes this book stand out the most is how unique it feels. The world building is lush without ever being confusing, and the plot balances humor, magic, and emotion perfectly. It’s a little wicked, a little sweet, and honestly just a blast to read from beginning to end. I think it is enemies to lovers with major tension perfection, features super strong characters, and a fresh twist on fae romance. It is a real standout in this genre.
Thank you to NetGalley, Melody Robinette, and G.P. Putnam’s Sons for the eARC of this book.
I think what makes this book stand out the most is how unique it feels. The world building is lush without ever being confusing, and the plot balances humor, magic, and emotion perfectly. It’s a little wicked, a little sweet, and honestly just a blast to read from beginning to end. I think it is enemies to lovers with major tension perfection, features super strong characters, and a fresh twist on fae romance. It is a real standout in this genre.
Thank you to NetGalley, Melody Robinette, and G.P. Putnam’s Sons for the eARC of this book.
November 22, 2025
“Murder is hard. Murdering someone you enjoy kissing is much harder.”
I like the overall vibe of the story. It’s well written. I was disappointed to call the deal behind the curse much, much sooner than I would have liked. I enjoyed the dynamic between Maddox and Castor.
One thing that almost killed it for me…. The diabetes. Not because the MFC was dealing with this. I understand how awful diabetes can be and how dangerous trying to to manage insulin can turn out if you are struggling to pay for it (I’ve seen this first hand sadly) what drove me nuts was how many times it’s thrown at us. We are reminded of her diabetes, in one way or another, every single chapter, multiple times in a chapter, constantly. I fear when I would get my hands on a copy of the second book the only thing I’ll remember about this was, “oh the one diabetic girl”
I won’t say what for spoiler reasons, but I would read the second book and believe I would likely rate it higher than this one.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for this ARC. Opinions are my own.
I like the overall vibe of the story. It’s well written. I was disappointed to call the deal behind the curse much, much sooner than I would have liked. I enjoyed the dynamic between Maddox and Castor.
One thing that almost killed it for me…. The diabetes. Not because the MFC was dealing with this. I understand how awful diabetes can be and how dangerous trying to to manage insulin can turn out if you are struggling to pay for it (I’ve seen this first hand sadly) what drove me nuts was how many times it’s thrown at us. We are reminded of her diabetes, in one way or another, every single chapter, multiple times in a chapter, constantly. I fear when I would get my hands on a copy of the second book the only thing I’ll remember about this was, “oh the one diabetic girl”
I won’t say what for spoiler reasons, but I would read the second book and believe I would likely rate it higher than this one.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for this ARC. Opinions are my own.
November 16, 2025
Curses abound in this speculative fantasy by Melody Robinette. The FMC suffers from type 1 diabetes, which she reminds the reader in every single chapter. The MMC suffers from a curse which kills everyone he loves. The MMC's best friend, bodyguard, and (luckily enough for the FMC) a healer knowledgeable in human medicine suffers from being shut out by the MMC. While the banter between the MMC and FMC is fun and flirty, the plot suffers from being a bit too predictable. The FMC's pact with the Myrtle Queen seems too easy and the "mistaken" identity of the MMC could be cleared up with *gasp* communication. To be clear, the story is enjoyable and a good read for a crisp fall day. It just doesn't stand out from other fae-based books. The story could have been wrapped up in one book, but the author throws in a twist at the end that sets up a sequel.
This was an ARC provided by NetGalley. All views are my own.
This was an ARC provided by NetGalley. All views are my own.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 8, 2025
Desde niña, Maddox ha visto a las criaturas del bosque y vio cómo los dryads asesinaron a sus padres. Años después, su vida vuelve a desmoronarse: sin dinero, sin hogar y sin acceso a la medicina que necesita para sobrevivir, regresa al bosque donde empezó su tragedia. Desesperada, busca a la temida Myrtle Queen para hacer un pacto… incluso si eso significa enfrentar a los mismos monstruos que le arrebataron todo.
Lo que no espera es cruzarse con Castor, un príncipe dryad maldito cuya sola cercanía puede matar. Él necesita amor para romper su condena. Ella necesita poder para sobrevivir. Lo único que ambos descubrirán es que amar puede ser el acto más peligroso de todos.
__
Necesito el siguiente libro.
Thanks to NetGalley, the publisher and the author for the ARC in exchange for an honest opinion.
Lo que no espera es cruzarse con Castor, un príncipe dryad maldito cuya sola cercanía puede matar. Él necesita amor para romper su condena. Ella necesita poder para sobrevivir. Lo único que ambos descubrirán es que amar puede ser el acto más peligroso de todos.
__
Necesito el siguiente libro.
Thanks to NetGalley, the publisher and the author for the ARC in exchange for an honest opinion.
December 18, 2025
These Vile Hearts by Melody Robinette was a fast, entertaining read with good pacing, and I finished it very quickly.
My beef was with our main love interests though. I felt meh about FMC and didn’t care about her problems or anything she's done. I found myself much more interested in Castor, his crazy brother, and especially the relationship with his bodyguard! Their chemistry felt more natural and layered than the romance between Maddox and Castor. And wish it was explored much more!!!
The plot twist was fairly predictable and didn’t feel especially high-stakes, which took away some of the tension for me. Overall, though, it was an enjoyable and easy read, even if the main romantic pairing didn’t completely work for me.
My beef was with our main love interests though. I felt meh about FMC and didn’t care about her problems or anything she's done. I found myself much more interested in Castor, his crazy brother, and especially the relationship with his bodyguard! Their chemistry felt more natural and layered than the romance between Maddox and Castor. And wish it was explored much more!!!
The plot twist was fairly predictable and didn’t feel especially high-stakes, which took away some of the tension for me. Overall, though, it was an enjoyable and easy read, even if the main romantic pairing didn’t completely work for me.
January 16, 2026
I was pleasantly surprised by this book. I've read quite a few fae/mortal books, and I knew it would entertain me, but what I didn't expect was how different it felt from others I've read. I loved the element that autoimmune disorders played into the story. I also love that the FMC and the MMC are both kind of morally Grey. Both are deceptive in their own ways. I hope we get to see Javen again in future books of this series. Honestly, the only thing I didn't like about this book is that because it's an arc read, I have to wait forever for the next one.
January 30, 2026
This was REALLY good. It was much darker than anticipated, and I really enjoyed it. I liked that it was more “urban” than most romantic fantasy books, and the magic system/world is unlike any I’ve read before. I also LOVED the type one diabetes story line. It really made the FMC feel real and undeniably human. Maddox is a badass while Castor is definitely more of a cinnamon roll MMC. I look forward to seeing them both grow in book 2 as I feel like given the ending there is ample opportunity for their character depth to expand significantly.
December 26, 2025
I liked it. Good storylines, interesting motivations, sort of enemies to lovers, sort of misidentification.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publishers for my free earc.
*Spoilers below!!
Spoiler: I thought it was interesting how the author made Maddox's diabetes as much a character as other fantasy authors make their settings. I'm intrigued to see how the rest of the series plays out now that she's effectively killed off that whole aspect of the series.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publishers for my free earc.
*Spoilers below!!
Spoiler: I thought it was interesting how the author made Maddox's diabetes as much a character as other fantasy authors make their settings. I'm intrigued to see how the rest of the series plays out now that she's effectively killed off that whole aspect of the series.
January 11, 2026
Thank you NetGalley for the opportunity to read the eARC of this book in exchange for my honest review!
I really, really wanted to like this book. It has a unique and interesting magic system and a FMC in her late 20’s. Sadly, the crossover between the magical world and the human world feels messy and rushed.
The characters just don’t seem realistic, and I have zero connection to the FMC. Unfortunately I couldn’t make it past chapter 20.
I really, really wanted to like this book. It has a unique and interesting magic system and a FMC in her late 20’s. Sadly, the crossover between the magical world and the human world feels messy and rushed.
The characters just don’t seem realistic, and I have zero connection to the FMC. Unfortunately I couldn’t make it past chapter 20.
January 20, 2026
If you really enjoy world building with just a tad bit of spice then this is a fabulous book to read. There's a broody prince and a broody MMC that both are hiding secrets from each other. It is a good slow burn that leaves you wanting more.
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