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Where The Wolf Prays
They say the woods belong to beasts.
They say girls who walk too far never come back.
But Raveena has never been afraid of old stories.
By day, she is the perfect daughter—obedient, pious, promised.
By night, she gathers what only grows under the moon.
And in the silence between her prayers, something begins to answer.
Something ancient. Something hungry.
Now, the village prays louder.
Blood stains the altar steps.
And Raveena begins to dream of teeth, of fire, of a voice that calls her witch like it’s a blessing.
What lives in the woods is not human.
What lives in her is not asleep.
When desire begins to taste like sin, and sin begins to feel like truth, Raveena must choose what burns—and what rises from the ashes.
Not all monsters come to feed.
Some come to worship.
They say girls who walk too far never come back.
But Raveena has never been afraid of old stories.
By day, she is the perfect daughter—obedient, pious, promised.
By night, she gathers what only grows under the moon.
And in the silence between her prayers, something begins to answer.
Something ancient. Something hungry.
Now, the village prays louder.
Blood stains the altar steps.
And Raveena begins to dream of teeth, of fire, of a voice that calls her witch like it’s a blessing.
What lives in the woods is not human.
What lives in her is not asleep.
When desire begins to taste like sin, and sin begins to feel like truth, Raveena must choose what burns—and what rises from the ashes.
Not all monsters come to feed.
Some come to worship.
350 pages, Kindle Edition
Published March 31, 2026
340 people are currently reading
2951 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 86 reviews
April 5, 2026
This was AMAZIIIIIIING
I loved everything about this book. The way the author wrote, the world building
It deals heavily with corrupt religion (if thats a trigger for some), and to me, it's done so well
Loved the romance
My girl Raveena was done dirty, but its ok she got her lick back. NO MERCY!!!
Honestly, this book is something you got to just jump in and read. I just knew it was gonna be good, and it exceeded my expectations
I loved everything about this book. The way the author wrote, the world building
It deals heavily with corrupt religion (if thats a trigger for some), and to me, it's done so well
Loved the romance
My girl Raveena was done dirty, but its ok she got her lick back. NO MERCY!!!
Honestly, this book is something you got to just jump in and read. I just knew it was gonna be good, and it exceeded my expectations
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 31, 2026
⋆ ₊ ‧ ° 𐐪 ♡ 𐑂 ° ₊ ⋆ ₊
Ever since I saw this on TikTok, I've been so excited to read it....and gods did I enjoy it!! I finished it within three hours, I was completely enamored by the beautiful writing. I enjoyed that the story was very different from most books with the same tropes and plot lines!
Oh!! A note: the book DOES contain smut/spice in it!
This review will be mostly spoiler free, aside from some parts being marked as spoilers !!
⋆ ₊ ‧ ° 𐐪 ♡ 𐑂 ° ₊ ⋆ ₊
[ 🦢 My Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 5/5 Stars ! ]
Reasoning:
Ever since I saw the promos and videos of the book on TikTok, I was immediately intrigued. I have read stories that have also touched on tropes like this one, however they were never mostly focused and centered around it. Where the Wolf Prays was such a refreshing story to read.
I found it incredibly hard to put down the book! It was so descriptive and really made you feel as if you were in the story itself. I adored Raveena and her character. I felt so bad for her throughout the story because of the way she was treated by those around her.
The town and characters within it really made me want to throw the book a couple of times, especially whenever they'd act up. Of course there were times where I was like "Oh yeah that's a valid reaction", but other times I was like "Okay---what the fuck?".
Raveena was such a relatable character in wanting the best for others. The poor girl went through so much at the end, but honestly the ending of the book has to be my favorite part.
As for the other characters, I will have to say I was rooting for Lucian and enjoyed Ilinca, Neaga, and Raveena's interactions. I specifically found myself enjoying the way that Raveena interacted with Ilinca throughout the story. It was so sweet the way she'd treat and interact with the younger girl. I also felt insanely bad for Neaga and Ilinca because of the way that the townsfolk would talk and think about them.
Now Lucian..from the very start I ADORED him. He was so enigmatic and a refreshing difference from the other portrayals of in modern media. I fucking adore his character and how he slowly started out as a mysterious figure before slowly revealing himself.
Huge spoilers so tread with caution !! (18+ content)
With that, the story was incredible..however I do wish there had been a little more to it towards the end. I do think there could've been a little more to the plot, but I do like the way that it progressed. Maybe it's just me that wished I could've continued reading this haha. I will also say that the story did start a little slow but it was soooo good! I definitely enjoyed it.
If you enjoy books that include:
- forbidden romance
- dark fantasy
- 'monster' mmc x witch fmc
- small town
- morally grey mmc
- body worship 👀
- spice / smut 👀👀
- slow burn
Then you should give it a try!
⋆ ₊ ‧ ° 𐐪 ♡ 𐑂 ° ₊ ⋆ ₊
Ever since I saw this on TikTok, I've been so excited to read it....and gods did I enjoy it!! I finished it within three hours, I was completely enamored by the beautiful writing. I enjoyed that the story was very different from most books with the same tropes and plot lines!
Oh!! A note: the book DOES contain smut/spice in it!
This review will be mostly spoiler free, aside from some parts being marked as spoilers !!
⋆ ₊ ‧ ° 𐐪 ♡ 𐑂 ° ₊ ⋆ ₊
[ 🦢 My Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 5/5 Stars ! ]
Reasoning:
Ever since I saw the promos and videos of the book on TikTok, I was immediately intrigued. I have read stories that have also touched on tropes like this one, however they were never mostly focused and centered around it. Where the Wolf Prays was such a refreshing story to read.
I found it incredibly hard to put down the book! It was so descriptive and really made you feel as if you were in the story itself. I adored Raveena and her character. I felt so bad for her throughout the story because of the way she was treated by those around her.
The town and characters within it really made me want to throw the book a couple of times, especially whenever they'd act up. Of course there were times where I was like "Oh yeah that's a valid reaction", but other times I was like "Okay---what the fuck?".
Raveena was such a relatable character in wanting the best for others. The poor girl went through so much at the end, but honestly the ending of the book has to be my favorite part.
As for the other characters, I will have to say I was rooting for Lucian and enjoyed Ilinca, Neaga, and Raveena's interactions. I specifically found myself enjoying the way that Raveena interacted with Ilinca throughout the story. It was so sweet the way she'd treat and interact with the younger girl. I also felt insanely bad for Neaga and Ilinca because of the way that the townsfolk would talk and think about them.
Now Lucian..from the very start I ADORED him. He was so enigmatic and a refreshing difference from the other portrayals of in modern media. I fucking adore his character and how he slowly started out as a mysterious figure before slowly revealing himself.
Huge spoilers so tread with caution !! (18+ content)
With that, the story was incredible..however I do wish there had been a little more to it towards the end. I do think there could've been a little more to the plot, but I do like the way that it progressed. Maybe it's just me that wished I could've continued reading this haha. I will also say that the story did start a little slow but it was soooo good! I definitely enjoyed it.
If you enjoy books that include:
- forbidden romance
- dark fantasy
- 'monster' mmc x witch fmc
- small town
- morally grey mmc
- body worship 👀
- spice / smut 👀👀
- slow burn
Then you should give it a try!
⋆ ₊ ‧ ° 𐐪 ♡ 𐑂 ° ₊ ⋆ ₊
April 19, 2026
2,5⭐️
Przemyślałam sprawę i jednak podwyższam ocenę. To, że mi nie siadła, nie oznacza, że nie zasługuje na docenienie zarówno w miarę porządnego warsztatu językowego, jak i podejścia do poruszanych wątków. To historia o zemście za brak otwarcia na świat, małomiasteczkowym zamknięciu, ale też grzechach. O traumie religijnej i zdradzie, relacja rodzinnych oraz akceptacji samego siebie. Myślę, że jest tu wiele interesujących fragmentów, zaś to, że moje oczekiwania czy założenia nie spotkały odbicia w rzeczywistości nie powinny wpływać na tak surową ocenę. Czytałam dużo gorzej napisane książki, by chociaż na tej podstawie jej tak źle nie oceniać.
Przemyślałam sprawę i jednak podwyższam ocenę. To, że mi nie siadła, nie oznacza, że nie zasługuje na docenienie zarówno w miarę porządnego warsztatu językowego, jak i podejścia do poruszanych wątków. To historia o zemście za brak otwarcia na świat, małomiasteczkowym zamknięciu, ale też grzechach. O traumie religijnej i zdradzie, relacja rodzinnych oraz akceptacji samego siebie. Myślę, że jest tu wiele interesujących fragmentów, zaś to, że moje oczekiwania czy założenia nie spotkały odbicia w rzeczywistości nie powinny wpływać na tak surową ocenę. Czytałam dużo gorzej napisane książki, by chociaż na tej podstawie jej tak źle nie oceniać.
April 28, 2026
rating: 2.5 / 5 stars
I very rarely ever write reviews, let alone a long one, but I really had a lot to say (also, now that I've been editing books for a year, I feel like I can better articulate my thoughts when it comes to reviewing!) But first, the positives: this book got me out of a reading slump. I love the concept and idea of the book; it's something I've been wanting to read for a while. The author has incredible potential, and I know her future releases are gonna get better and better, and I'm excited!
The concept of the book is really intriguing. I think the idea is very captivating and mysterious. The execution leaves much to be desired. The book repeats itself a lot. The same thoughts over and over again, the same actions, even the same dialogue. How many times will we describe how muddy the ground is, or how everyone’s eyes shifted across the room, or how Raveena’s mother clutched her rosaries for the 47th time? Speaking of repetitiveness, Raveena has the same realizations multiple times. 70% of the book is spent cycling through the same internal monologue and thought process. She happens upon the same ideas but never actually takes any action.
The love story between Raveena and Lucien needed to be expanded upon much more. They met, she was scared of him, they met again, he seduced her, they got "together". There was no buildup, no tension. He should’ve shown up in her dreams more often, she should’ve gone to him at night more often to learn about him, not stand there frozen while he circles her multiple times speaking poetry. I also find that saving the big reveal of Lucien's past for the very end is lazy writing. Additionally, Raveena being the first person Lucien can interact with is not enough justification for him to murder multiple people in her village. If they had gotten to know each other more, interacted more, and slowly learned each other's past, then his actions would have made much more sense. But being obsessed for the sake of obsession and loving for the sake of loving with no foundation leaves you feeling empty. Why should I care about them?
Next I want to discuss how Raveena is afraid of everything. During her youth, she’s described as this wild, carefree child. Then she gets her period, “becomes a woman,” and suddenly does a complete 180 and is too nervous to look up from her lap. Where is that fire from her childhood? Where is the desire for freedom? Also, assuming she gets her period when she’s 14, we know she’s at least younger than 20 based on context clues. So, within those few years, her entire personality has completely shifted to be a complying, quiet girl who does no wrong? When in reality her teenage emotions would probably make her incredibly outspoken and righteous. She should’ve been a fighter!!! She’s so boring! Until the last few chapters of the book, she barely does anything except ruminate.
Lastly, a lot of Raveena's past wasn't explored. First, how exactly did her father teach her these witch methods growing up? Next, if her mother is so against these methods, how did she put up with her husband and child engaging in such conduct? Exactly how expansive are Raveena's "powers" (not really sure what to refer to them as)? And lastly, and this may be something I missed, but who is the wolf? Because Lucien doesn't turn into a wolf... right? He's just.. himself.. so where did the wolves come from and do they obey Lucien?
Also, has anyone seen the movie Red Riding Hood starring Amanda Seyfried? This book reminded me of that a lot.
I very rarely ever write reviews, let alone a long one, but I really had a lot to say (also, now that I've been editing books for a year, I feel like I can better articulate my thoughts when it comes to reviewing!) But first, the positives: this book got me out of a reading slump. I love the concept and idea of the book; it's something I've been wanting to read for a while. The author has incredible potential, and I know her future releases are gonna get better and better, and I'm excited!
The concept of the book is really intriguing. I think the idea is very captivating and mysterious. The execution leaves much to be desired. The book repeats itself a lot. The same thoughts over and over again, the same actions, even the same dialogue. How many times will we describe how muddy the ground is, or how everyone’s eyes shifted across the room, or how Raveena’s mother clutched her rosaries for the 47th time? Speaking of repetitiveness, Raveena has the same realizations multiple times. 70% of the book is spent cycling through the same internal monologue and thought process. She happens upon the same ideas but never actually takes any action.
The love story between Raveena and Lucien needed to be expanded upon much more. They met, she was scared of him, they met again, he seduced her, they got "together". There was no buildup, no tension. He should’ve shown up in her dreams more often, she should’ve gone to him at night more often to learn about him, not stand there frozen while he circles her multiple times speaking poetry. I also find that saving the big reveal of Lucien's past for the very end is lazy writing. Additionally, Raveena being the first person Lucien can interact with is not enough justification for him to murder multiple people in her village. If they had gotten to know each other more, interacted more, and slowly learned each other's past, then his actions would have made much more sense. But being obsessed for the sake of obsession and loving for the sake of loving with no foundation leaves you feeling empty. Why should I care about them?
Next I want to discuss how Raveena is afraid of everything. During her youth, she’s described as this wild, carefree child. Then she gets her period, “becomes a woman,” and suddenly does a complete 180 and is too nervous to look up from her lap. Where is that fire from her childhood? Where is the desire for freedom? Also, assuming she gets her period when she’s 14, we know she’s at least younger than 20 based on context clues. So, within those few years, her entire personality has completely shifted to be a complying, quiet girl who does no wrong? When in reality her teenage emotions would probably make her incredibly outspoken and righteous. She should’ve been a fighter!!! She’s so boring! Until the last few chapters of the book, she barely does anything except ruminate.
Lastly, a lot of Raveena's past wasn't explored. First, how exactly did her father teach her these witch methods growing up? Next, if her mother is so against these methods, how did she put up with her husband and child engaging in such conduct? Exactly how expansive are Raveena's "powers" (not really sure what to refer to them as)? And lastly, and this may be something I missed, but who is the wolf? Because Lucien doesn't turn into a wolf... right? He's just.. himself.. so where did the wolves come from and do they obey Lucien?
Also, has anyone seen the movie Red Riding Hood starring Amanda Seyfried? This book reminded me of that a lot.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Did Not Finish
April 17, 2026Dnf 41%
I liked the idea of the book and was very intrigued to read it. Plus seeing it had a vampire MMC? Yes please. Unfortunately I barely met him and I was that far in and still you don’t even know his name. The first half of the book literally nothing happens. Just over explaining of the FMCs day to day with some small village drama. I guess the second half of the book it really gets going but honestly I just didn’t care anymore at that point. I could also tell there wasn’t gonna be a good connection with the couple seeing as they had no build up with each other and I don’t really enjoy romances like that so I just don’t want to waste my time and decided it’s best I stop here.
I liked the idea of the book and was very intrigued to read it. Plus seeing it had a vampire MMC? Yes please. Unfortunately I barely met him and I was that far in and still you don’t even know his name. The first half of the book literally nothing happens. Just over explaining of the FMCs day to day with some small village drama. I guess the second half of the book it really gets going but honestly I just didn’t care anymore at that point. I could also tell there wasn’t gonna be a good connection with the couple seeing as they had no build up with each other and I don’t really enjoy romances like that so I just don’t want to waste my time and decided it’s best I stop here.
May 1, 2026
yeah, this is exactly what i needed from this book. thank you, nyra 🫰
This was no dream. I called him. In sleep. In longing. In that place beneath my ribs that opened when his mouth hovered at my throat.
I lifted the blade and did not strike. I let his hands touch me. I opened my mouth and did not scream. If there is rot, it began with me.
Branches shift, leaves whisper, and the dark receives me as though it had been expecting my return.
"I would worship you as flesh was meant to be honored." His voice drops further. "On my knees. With blood on my lips and your name upon my tongue."
This was no dream. I called him. In sleep. In longing. In that place beneath my ribs that opened when his mouth hovered at my throat.
I lifted the blade and did not strike. I let his hands touch me. I opened my mouth and did not scream. If there is rot, it began with me.
Branches shift, leaves whisper, and the dark receives me as though it had been expecting my return.
"I would worship you as flesh was meant to be honored." His voice drops further. "On my knees. With blood on my lips and your name upon my tongue."
March 31, 2026
Wow
I was really excited about this book cuz I saw a tick tock a few months back, I'm glad to say that this exceeded my expectations.
I really loved that this story focused more on her coming to terms with the life she is living rather than just a romance, but I definitely would have loved more scenes of the two together.
I will say, if you have religious trauma, go into this book with caution.
Nyra Ashvale, please keep writing. I really enjoyed this book and would love to see more :)
I was really excited about this book cuz I saw a tick tock a few months back, I'm glad to say that this exceeded my expectations.
I really loved that this story focused more on her coming to terms with the life she is living rather than just a romance, but I definitely would have loved more scenes of the two together.
I will say, if you have religious trauma, go into this book with caution.
Nyra Ashvale, please keep writing. I really enjoyed this book and would love to see more :)
April 2, 2026
That was so so good, so satisfying, horrifying, incredible, magnificent... Just thank you, Nyra, thank you so so much.
April 3, 2026
I went in blind with this after finding this book on tik tok. I was left surprised and it is too good. YOU MUST READ THIS! This is very gothic and gory.
March 31, 2026
where the wolf prays 😩
I’ve been dying to read this book for ages and it did not disappoint!!! I gobbled it up within 3 hourrrrrsss😭😍
The writing! The world building! Everything was chefs kisssssssss 🧑🍳👌🏻
I’ve been dying to read this book for ages and it did not disappoint!!! I gobbled it up within 3 hourrrrrsss😭😍
The writing! The world building! Everything was chefs kisssssssss 🧑🍳👌🏻
April 30, 2026
I absolutely devoured Where the Wolf Prays by Nyra Ashvalle. From the very first chapter, I was pulled into a dark, atmospheric world that feels both haunting and intoxicating.
The chemistry between the characters is electric. It’s that perfect slow-burn tension where every look and every moment of closeness feels intentional and charged. When things finally unfold, the passion is intense, emotional, and consuming — the kind of spice that actually deepens the story instead of distracting from it.
What truly elevates this book, though, is how it explores religious trauma. It’s woven so naturally into the story, adding emotional weight and complexity to the characters’ choices, fears, and desires. You can feel the internal conflict — the push and pull between belief, guilt, identity, and freedom — and it makes every relationship and decision hit so much harder. It’s raw, honest, and handled in a way that adds real substance to the narrative.
The character development is incredible. Each character feels distinct, layered, and purposeful — not just the main leads, but the side characters too. There’s a wide range of personalities and perspectives that all contribute to the world-building, making everything feel richer and more immersive. Watching the characters evolve, confront their pasts, and grow into themselves was just as satisfying as the romance.
And the “wolf” element? I didn’t know if he was a creature at first, sexy vampire or a cryptic? But that made it 10x more enjoyable. It adds this primal, almost sacred energy to everything — making the connection feel instinctual, protective, and powerful in a way that lingers long after you finish the book.
Beautifully written, emotionally gripping, and undeniably addictive — this book is a perfect blend of dark romance, depth, and transformation.
I personally am never the type of writer a reviewer on a book and just want to stalk the other good reads review to see what people get out of the book. However, this pulled me out of a very long reading slump after TOG and some dark romance novels thou shall not be named haha! So I felt it deserved a good review. Nyra, queen. You devoured my heart and soul in this book. Cannot wait to read what you put out next!
The chemistry between the characters is electric. It’s that perfect slow-burn tension where every look and every moment of closeness feels intentional and charged. When things finally unfold, the passion is intense, emotional, and consuming — the kind of spice that actually deepens the story instead of distracting from it.
What truly elevates this book, though, is how it explores religious trauma. It’s woven so naturally into the story, adding emotional weight and complexity to the characters’ choices, fears, and desires. You can feel the internal conflict — the push and pull between belief, guilt, identity, and freedom — and it makes every relationship and decision hit so much harder. It’s raw, honest, and handled in a way that adds real substance to the narrative.
The character development is incredible. Each character feels distinct, layered, and purposeful — not just the main leads, but the side characters too. There’s a wide range of personalities and perspectives that all contribute to the world-building, making everything feel richer and more immersive. Watching the characters evolve, confront their pasts, and grow into themselves was just as satisfying as the romance.
And the “wolf” element? I didn’t know if he was a creature at first, sexy vampire or a cryptic? But that made it 10x more enjoyable. It adds this primal, almost sacred energy to everything — making the connection feel instinctual, protective, and powerful in a way that lingers long after you finish the book.
Beautifully written, emotionally gripping, and undeniably addictive — this book is a perfect blend of dark romance, depth, and transformation.
I personally am never the type of writer a reviewer on a book and just want to stalk the other good reads review to see what people get out of the book. However, this pulled me out of a very long reading slump after TOG and some dark romance novels thou shall not be named haha! So I felt it deserved a good review. Nyra, queen. You devoured my heart and soul in this book. Cannot wait to read what you put out next!
May 1, 2026
I was genuinely so excited to read this book once I found out about it. The themes and overall story seemed so enticing and morbidly beautiful that I ended up binging it in only a few days. It was a dark yet enjoyable read but I would recommend checking out the tws before picking this one up.
The only thing that stopped me from giving this story five stars is the fact that I wish we got to delve a bit deeper into our fmcs relationship with the monster in the woods. I would've loved to have seen a bit more of them together but the bits we did get will forever be stuck in my mind. He simply knows the right things to say. Another thing that took the rating down for me was the few grammatical errors scattered throughout but it wasn't anything too bad.
Overall, this story is not for the faint of heart as it does contain some dark and traumatic themes but I thoroughly enjoyed my time reading this and look forward to what this author comes out with next!
The only thing that stopped me from giving this story five stars is the fact that I wish we got to delve a bit deeper into our fmcs relationship with the monster in the woods. I would've loved to have seen a bit more of them together but the bits we did get will forever be stuck in my mind. He simply knows the right things to say. Another thing that took the rating down for me was the few grammatical errors scattered throughout but it wasn't anything too bad.
Overall, this story is not for the faint of heart as it does contain some dark and traumatic themes but I thoroughly enjoyed my time reading this and look forward to what this author comes out with next!
April 18, 2026
like idk… 🤷♀️
I initially thought it would be a dark romance, but it turned out to be more of a historical fantasy religion book that also commented on social and gender norms. There was a bit of smut, but it was minimal and I skipped over it. Also, I was curious about her love interest—was it a spirit, a vampire, a man, or an immortal?
The most prominent theme, in my opinion, was Christianity’s judgment of pagan religions and other people’s differences. It was an interesting book, but it didn’t quite meet my expectations. And there was very small amounts of character development so I kinda didn’t care or get to know anyone.
I initially thought it would be a dark romance, but it turned out to be more of a historical fantasy religion book that also commented on social and gender norms. There was a bit of smut, but it was minimal and I skipped over it. Also, I was curious about her love interest—was it a spirit, a vampire, a man, or an immortal?
The most prominent theme, in my opinion, was Christianity’s judgment of pagan religions and other people’s differences. It was an interesting book, but it didn’t quite meet my expectations. And there was very small amounts of character development so I kinda didn’t care or get to know anyone.
April 3, 2026
This book honestly took me by surprise, I really enjoyed. Where the Wolf Prays is based on Romanian mythology, and I feel that Nyra did a great job of setting the scene
While I loved the way Nyra writes, I feel like we could have used a little less descriptors, and more relationship building between the female and male characters. There is hardly any real interactions between the two main characters until about the 50% mark. That being said, if you are looking for spice, I would say it is only two🌶️🌶️.
Because so much of the book is spent on telling you what’s going on around the female character, it took awhile for the pace to pick up. However, once it got to the last quarter of the book, I was definitely on the edge of my seat.
Overall, I really did like this book, hints the four ⭐️s, I just wish there was more relationship building between the two of them.
While I loved the way Nyra writes, I feel like we could have used a little less descriptors, and more relationship building between the female and male characters. There is hardly any real interactions between the two main characters until about the 50% mark. That being said, if you are looking for spice, I would say it is only two🌶️🌶️.
Because so much of the book is spent on telling you what’s going on around the female character, it took awhile for the pace to pick up. However, once it got to the last quarter of the book, I was definitely on the edge of my seat.
Overall, I really did like this book, hints the four ⭐️s, I just wish there was more relationship building between the two of them.
April 26, 2026
3,5⭐️
While the religious trauma aspect of the book was done really well everything else felt a bit underdeveloped.
The romance to me felt like a very insignificant thing to just at the end turn in to one of the main points. While yes, I understood that her choosing the strigoi was her finally excepting the wrongness of her life, it still felt like it could have been handled better. We saw basically no connection with her and Lucian. He just liked her. That’s it. Even if they did have a lot of interactions it was underwhelming and mostly based on physical attraction. While that is important especially because her bodily autonomy and attraction was characterised as a sin and it was important for her to learn that it’s not. I still wanted more emotional connections to seal the deal.
I also think that the character arcs could have been a bit more developed. For a book that is really descriptive ( sometimes a bit too much to a point it was confusing ) character development was really pushed back in this.
The ending read like every witchy horror movie, to be honest expected something more.
I did really love the way the town was written and how religion was described. That is probably why I’m giving this book a higher rating. I have to give it to this author it definitely felt really touching to find a book that explains Christian selfishness and guilt so well. All the tiny details really came together perfectly and I did really enjoy being mad at the characters. This book brought out emotion, even if it was rage at a group of people.
With that said, I would recommend this book if you’re looking for that witchy, religion themed horror film vibe that criticises religion perfectly. But I would not pick this up for the romance, it was underwhelming.
While the religious trauma aspect of the book was done really well everything else felt a bit underdeveloped.
The romance to me felt like a very insignificant thing to just at the end turn in to one of the main points. While yes, I understood that her choosing the strigoi was her finally excepting the wrongness of her life, it still felt like it could have been handled better. We saw basically no connection with her and Lucian. He just liked her. That’s it. Even if they did have a lot of interactions it was underwhelming and mostly based on physical attraction. While that is important especially because her bodily autonomy and attraction was characterised as a sin and it was important for her to learn that it’s not. I still wanted more emotional connections to seal the deal.
I also think that the character arcs could have been a bit more developed. For a book that is really descriptive ( sometimes a bit too much to a point it was confusing ) character development was really pushed back in this.
The ending read like every witchy horror movie, to be honest expected something more.
I did really love the way the town was written and how religion was described. That is probably why I’m giving this book a higher rating. I have to give it to this author it definitely felt really touching to find a book that explains Christian selfishness and guilt so well. All the tiny details really came together perfectly and I did really enjoy being mad at the characters. This book brought out emotion, even if it was rage at a group of people.
With that said, I would recommend this book if you’re looking for that witchy, religion themed horror film vibe that criticises religion perfectly. But I would not pick this up for the romance, it was underwhelming.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 20, 2026
The atmosphere, world building, the characters fleshed out so well so quickly. I could have read 300 more pages. I hope this author continues in this genre- it was amazing. Man I felt this book.
April 22, 2026
Gothic folk horror, desire, religion, and eroticism all tied into one book. I loveeee when religion and horror meet in the middle.
April 30, 2026
BEAUTIFUL. UNDERRATED.
April 2, 2026
too sacrilege for my taste
April 3, 2026
I loved this book. Loved the whole vibe of this book and it was beautifully written. Definitely got me out of my reading slump.
April 25, 2026
This was such a fantastic read! The writing style was very unique and I really appreciated it. I really felt like I was immersed in a setting similar to the Salem Witch Trials. It really got me at first, I totally thought that Radu was a cool dude. But the author did such a good job of developing that story line. Also Lucian is also one of my new top book boyfriends because MAN is he good. Also her staying in the wedding dress was chef’s kiss. I’m excited to see what else this author produces!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 28, 2026
Loved the plot and the FFM. This book would have gotten 5 starts if there were not so many editing mistakes and the few spelling errors.
April 6, 2026
what a devastatingly beautiful book!! my absolute favorite read this year. if you love a gothic dark romance this is for you.
April 7, 2026
1.5⭐️
This started ok, the atmosphere is well set as very bleak and creepy- but as the book went on there was just nothing really interesting happening, even when the mmc came into it more, I just didn’t really care.
Maybe could have worked better as a novella or something.
This started ok, the atmosphere is well set as very bleak and creepy- but as the book went on there was just nothing really interesting happening, even when the mmc came into it more, I just didn’t really care.
Maybe could have worked better as a novella or something.
April 12, 2026
grim innit
April 24, 2026
Very beautiful story, there was something missing, maybe more interactions with Lucian? More shifts in attitude with Raveena, more acts of rebellion? Very small details of course, and it’s an enjoyable short story.
April 25, 2026
I adore this book. The writing is beautifully done and the story had me hooked from the start. I would recommend this book to fans of Slewfoot or just any witch with religious trauma.
March 31, 2026
3.5**
So I have just finished reading this book and frankly, I don’t know what to say. I have never read something quite like this. Richly dark and truly gothic in its atmosphere. I’ll start with the positive aspects! Trust me, they outweigh the negative: This book is very aesthetic. It creates such an intriguing mental picture.
I really liked the writing style and how it pulled in and focuses on details. The FMC was likeable, she had this gracious energy about her. The MMC is a mysterious puzzle that is quite attractive. Overall, loved their couple dynamics and how they were together.
The few things that left me a bit disappointed..mainly the plot. I feel like nothing truly happened apart from them tearing the village down towards the end. I do not mean that it was boring, only that I wish it had a stronger storyline.
Sometimes, the mundane scenes were too over explained and therefore kind of dragged on..
My 3.5 stars go to the beautiful writing and Raveena and Lucian when together. Definitely a one of a kind read.
So I have just finished reading this book and frankly, I don’t know what to say. I have never read something quite like this. Richly dark and truly gothic in its atmosphere. I’ll start with the positive aspects! Trust me, they outweigh the negative: This book is very aesthetic. It creates such an intriguing mental picture.
I really liked the writing style and how it pulled in and focuses on details. The FMC was likeable, she had this gracious energy about her. The MMC is a mysterious puzzle that is quite attractive. Overall, loved their couple dynamics and how they were together.
The few things that left me a bit disappointed..mainly the plot. I feel like nothing truly happened apart from them tearing the village down towards the end. I do not mean that it was boring, only that I wish it had a stronger storyline.
Sometimes, the mundane scenes were too over explained and therefore kind of dragged on..
My 3.5 stars go to the beautiful writing and Raveena and Lucian when together. Definitely a one of a kind read.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 8, 2026
1⭐
Estoy muy decepcionada.
Literalmente se supone que este libro es romance, y de romance hay lo que yo wonder woman.
Hay 5 escenas contadas entre los supuestos protagonistas, y tres de ellas son escenas sexuales sin ningún tipo de sentido.
Osea se ven una vez y a la siguiente el ya la está masturbando....me explicas?
Por no hablar de que realmente conoces al chico en las ultimas 100 paginas, y el libro tiene +300.
Al principio si me estaba gustando y a pesar de que fuera lento lo disfrutaba, porque me parece muy interesante ver como la protagonista va progresando.
Pero en la pagina 134, cuando todavía no había romance, escenas entre ellos etc...ya sabia yo que no iba a terminar de gustarme. Y efectivamente, porque no hay romance.
Y tampoco hay progreso en la chica. Se supone que ella no le teme a nada. Mentira.
Se supone que ella va a ver como el cristianismo de su aldea no es lo que ella quiere, que ella quiere el paganismo como su padre difunto.
Y si, en parte si, pero de estar +200 paginas ella quitandose los pecados con dios, a en una pagina de repente tenga actividades sexuales con el protagonista y ya no quiera vivir mas en la aldea...¿?
La idea de este libro es brillante. Me gusta. Pero no es lo que indica que es. Esto no es romance. Pero tampoco es ver una etapa de crecimiento de una chica empapada de cristianismo a la fuerza.
Este libro es...nada. un borrador de una idea, que sin duda tiene que ser muy muy pulido, y la idea bien centrada.
Porque la autora en redes, y en la sinopsis lo vende como: una chica la cual es culpada de hacer brujeria en su pueblo. Un villano que no permite que le hagan daño a ella....
Y es MENTIRA.
Sabes cuando el pueblo culpa a la chica de brujería? En las ultimas 20 paginas. Y además el prota ni siquiera la salva, ni siquiera hace nada. Porque no hay escenas entre ellos excepto tres masturbaciones, y al final, como ellos destruyen la aldea en una pagina.
De verdad que tengo una rabia en mi encima que no puedo explicar....porque ya no es que este mal ejecutado, es que la autora te lo vende como algo que no es. Como algo que no existe.
Queda de sobra decir que no lo recomiendo. Y no voy a leerlo otra vez, y tampoco mas cosas de la autora.
Estoy muy decepcionada.
Literalmente se supone que este libro es romance, y de romance hay lo que yo wonder woman.
Hay 5 escenas contadas entre los supuestos protagonistas, y tres de ellas son escenas sexuales sin ningún tipo de sentido.
Osea se ven una vez y a la siguiente el ya la está masturbando....me explicas?
Por no hablar de que realmente conoces al chico en las ultimas 100 paginas, y el libro tiene +300.
Al principio si me estaba gustando y a pesar de que fuera lento lo disfrutaba, porque me parece muy interesante ver como la protagonista va progresando.
Pero en la pagina 134, cuando todavía no había romance, escenas entre ellos etc...ya sabia yo que no iba a terminar de gustarme. Y efectivamente, porque no hay romance.
Y tampoco hay progreso en la chica. Se supone que ella no le teme a nada. Mentira.
Se supone que ella va a ver como el cristianismo de su aldea no es lo que ella quiere, que ella quiere el paganismo como su padre difunto.
Y si, en parte si, pero de estar +200 paginas ella quitandose los pecados con dios, a en una pagina de repente tenga actividades sexuales con el protagonista y ya no quiera vivir mas en la aldea...¿?
La idea de este libro es brillante. Me gusta. Pero no es lo que indica que es. Esto no es romance. Pero tampoco es ver una etapa de crecimiento de una chica empapada de cristianismo a la fuerza.
Este libro es...nada. un borrador de una idea, que sin duda tiene que ser muy muy pulido, y la idea bien centrada.
Porque la autora en redes, y en la sinopsis lo vende como: una chica la cual es culpada de hacer brujeria en su pueblo. Un villano que no permite que le hagan daño a ella....
Y es MENTIRA.
Sabes cuando el pueblo culpa a la chica de brujería? En las ultimas 20 paginas. Y además el prota ni siquiera la salva, ni siquiera hace nada. Porque no hay escenas entre ellos excepto tres masturbaciones, y al final, como ellos destruyen la aldea en una pagina.
De verdad que tengo una rabia en mi encima que no puedo explicar....porque ya no es que este mal ejecutado, es que la autora te lo vende como algo que no es. Como algo que no existe.
Queda de sobra decir que no lo recomiendo. Y no voy a leerlo otra vez, y tampoco mas cosas de la autora.
April 10, 2026
The concept of this story was very exciting to me, which is probably why I ended up feeling so disappointed. Femininity, witchcraft, mythology, religion, tradition, patriarchy, sin, and nature... There are endless possibilities with topics like these. They open up possibilities for psychological depth, moral complexity, and a much more layered female main character.
But it all reads more like the idea of a dark female awakening than something truly disturbing and revelatory.
Unfortunately, Raveena follows a rather predictable and simple arc. I kept waiting for something sharper, stranger, dirtier, wilder, or simply more emotionally complicated to emerge, but it never really did. Apples, sex in the woods, menstruation, darkness and the state of ecstasy... Dear author, don't write about such topics carefully if you want it in your stories. These things are not meant to be written carefully and politely. Don't be a man about it. Just be a woman about it.
The writing also spends too much time over-explaining physical details and small actions. Description is not the problem in itself, but it needs to be supported by something more alive underneath it. Emotional depth, tension, subtext, motive, strong dialogue. For me, that was missing here.
This is not an example of talentless writing. This story has sparks. The problem with those sparks is that they all seem to fade too fast.
I don't want this review to come across as pointless cruelty. I do believe that you, author, can have a very bright artistic future. I just wish you were less scared and less filtered when it came to writing what you truly feel. Don't be afraid of your actual voice. Don't be afraid of actual judgment. Be loud, be sharp, be honest. Don't soften your female characters for anyone. Make it ugly, make it beautiful - make it real. You have much more bravery and power inside you than this book exposes.
But it all reads more like the idea of a dark female awakening than something truly disturbing and revelatory.
Unfortunately, Raveena follows a rather predictable and simple arc. I kept waiting for something sharper, stranger, dirtier, wilder, or simply more emotionally complicated to emerge, but it never really did. Apples, sex in the woods, menstruation, darkness and the state of ecstasy... Dear author, don't write about such topics carefully if you want it in your stories. These things are not meant to be written carefully and politely. Don't be a man about it. Just be a woman about it.
The writing also spends too much time over-explaining physical details and small actions. Description is not the problem in itself, but it needs to be supported by something more alive underneath it. Emotional depth, tension, subtext, motive, strong dialogue. For me, that was missing here.
This is not an example of talentless writing. This story has sparks. The problem with those sparks is that they all seem to fade too fast.
I don't want this review to come across as pointless cruelty. I do believe that you, author, can have a very bright artistic future. I just wish you were less scared and less filtered when it came to writing what you truly feel. Don't be afraid of your actual voice. Don't be afraid of actual judgment. Be loud, be sharp, be honest. Don't soften your female characters for anyone. Make it ugly, make it beautiful - make it real. You have much more bravery and power inside you than this book exposes.
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