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Twisted Vows: An Immortal Consequences Story
Not yet published
Expected 6 Oct 26Step into the mysterious, gothic world of Blackwood Academy eighteen years prior to the events of the New York Times bestselling Immortal Consequences in this darkly enchanting prequel novella that traces the origins of fan-favorite couple August and Wren’s heated rivalry and eventual romance.
She’d hate him for the rest of eternity. She’d hate him until the very end.
When Wren Loughty finds herself dropped outside the gates of Blackwood Academy, the infamous magical boarding school located on the fringes of the afterlife, she quickly realizes that she's dead. Worse, she's stuck between life and death, eternally tasked with learning the magical skills required to guide lost souls to the Other Side.
And her first assignment? A class project with the boy known as the notorious "Demon of Blackwood," Augustine Hughes.
August doesn't do friends. He has his own reasons for wanting to get close to the new girl...reasons that are quickly becoming more complicated the more time he spends with her.
As Wren and August navigate the darkly enchanting Blackwood campus and their cutthroat fellow students, an undeniable connection grows between them. But some connections can be twisted.
And some betrayals can’t be undone.
She’d hate him for the rest of eternity. She’d hate him until the very end.
When Wren Loughty finds herself dropped outside the gates of Blackwood Academy, the infamous magical boarding school located on the fringes of the afterlife, she quickly realizes that she's dead. Worse, she's stuck between life and death, eternally tasked with learning the magical skills required to guide lost souls to the Other Side.
And her first assignment? A class project with the boy known as the notorious "Demon of Blackwood," Augustine Hughes.
August doesn't do friends. He has his own reasons for wanting to get close to the new girl...reasons that are quickly becoming more complicated the more time he spends with her.
As Wren and August navigate the darkly enchanting Blackwood campus and their cutthroat fellow students, an undeniable connection grows between them. But some connections can be twisted.
And some betrayals can’t be undone.
192 pages, Hardcover
Expected publication October 6, 2026
About the author
I.V. Marie
3 books1,176 followersI.V. Marie is the instant New York Times, USA Today and Indie Bestselling author of Immortal Consequences. She was born and raised in Miami to a Peruvian mother and Chilean father, where she acquired a penchant for afternoon cafecitos and developed an all-consuming obsession with books. Her writing ambitions began behind her grandparents’ computer, where she spent her childhood crafting spooky and fantastical short stories. When she is not writing, you can find her rock climbing or watching atmospheric Youtube videos with her dog, Mr. Darcy.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 54 reviews
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
okay now give us more because this was everything i wanted! it felt like such a breather after all the chaos in the main duology and i loved getting to just enjoy wren and august’s banter <3 there’s something about knowing how their story plays out that makes you savour the beginning of their relationship even more 🥹🩷
ⓘ thank you to netgalley and random house for the arc!
ⓘ thank you to netgalley and random house for the arc!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
okay what was the point of this...?
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
so i guess ill just go cry in that corner 👉
RTC
𝜗𝜚⋆₊˚ Preread 𝜗𝜚⋆₊˚
I GOT THE ARC I GOT THE ARC EVERYONE STAY CALM I GOT THE ARC AHHHHHHHHHHHHHH
RTC
𝜗𝜚⋆₊˚ Preread 𝜗𝜚⋆₊˚
I GOT THE ARC I GOT THE ARC EVERYONE STAY CALM I GOT THE ARC AHHHHHHHHHHHHHH
Want to Read
March 13, 2026Update #1 (03/13/26): THIS IS HAPPENING!!! To read about Wren & August this October (Spooky Season)?!?! Yup!!! I am unwell. 🫠🫠🫠.
Want to Read
February 15, 2026this novella is one of my most anticipated book releases in 2026 and I can't wait to read this novella about wren and august! And the cover is beautiful !
remind-me-once-out
March 27, 2026I didn't realize we were getting a prequel!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
3 stars.
As much as I am a sucker for deeper interactions with characters and a slightly slower plot line, one problem that usually occurs in a novella like so, is that the plot kind of gets lost. I seriously loved learning more about August and Wren, especially because they were my favorite couple in the first book, but it all felt drastically different in terms of vibes and pacing, which kind of threw me off.
This book being quite short was another part that threw me off, especially as a fast reader. It took me like an hour and a half max to finish the entire book, which as much as I appreciate shorter reads, felt a little bit off putting. At the end of the day, this was just my opinion, but it could have been longer.
I loved the interactions with Wren and August because their banter was so fun. Essentially, I loved learning about Wren when she first joined the school, and August's thought process throughout the entire book. Seeing Oliver definitely made me sick though, I love him so much.
Thank you to Random House Children's Books and Netgalley for the arc of Twisted Vows!
(Apologies for the shorter review, I dont have much to talk about.)
As much as I am a sucker for deeper interactions with characters and a slightly slower plot line, one problem that usually occurs in a novella like so, is that the plot kind of gets lost. I seriously loved learning more about August and Wren, especially because they were my favorite couple in the first book, but it all felt drastically different in terms of vibes and pacing, which kind of threw me off.
This book being quite short was another part that threw me off, especially as a fast reader. It took me like an hour and a half max to finish the entire book, which as much as I appreciate shorter reads, felt a little bit off putting. At the end of the day, this was just my opinion, but it could have been longer.
I loved the interactions with Wren and August because their banter was so fun. Essentially, I loved learning about Wren when she first joined the school, and August's thought process throughout the entire book. Seeing Oliver definitely made me sick though, I love him so much.
Thank you to Random House Children's Books and Netgalley for the arc of Twisted Vows!
(Apologies for the shorter review, I dont have much to talk about.)
April 2, 2026
First off, I am so grateful to have been chosen for another ARC in this series. It has become one of my favorites!!
This story was exactly what I needed! I needed more of Wren and August because I was not ready to let them go after ruinous ends. The banter and relationship between these characters is one of my favorites and you cannot help but rooting for them and just waiting for them to be together. This book was a light read and it was interesting to learn more about both Wren’s and August’s backstories leading up to Immortal Consequences. The brief mentioning of the main characters in Immortal Consequences and Ruinous Ends were perfect Easter eggs. I have such a love for all these characters it can’t be the end of stories in their world.
Thank you I. V. Marie for giving me another chance to love your characters. Fingers crossed for another book where we somehow get more of August and Wren..and also Oliver and Emilio..
This story was exactly what I needed! I needed more of Wren and August because I was not ready to let them go after ruinous ends. The banter and relationship between these characters is one of my favorites and you cannot help but rooting for them and just waiting for them to be together. This book was a light read and it was interesting to learn more about both Wren’s and August’s backstories leading up to Immortal Consequences. The brief mentioning of the main characters in Immortal Consequences and Ruinous Ends were perfect Easter eggs. I have such a love for all these characters it can’t be the end of stories in their world.
Thank you I. V. Marie for giving me another chance to love your characters. Fingers crossed for another book where we somehow get more of August and Wren..and also Oliver and Emilio..
April 5, 2026
I’m incredibly thankful to NetGalley for the opportunity to read an early copy of Twisted Vows. This book was such a fantastic story, and I loved how it deepened Wren and August’s relationship, making me want to immediately reread Immortal Consequences. I.V. Marie is going to be an always buy author for me. I genuinely hope there’s more to come beyond these three books in the Blackwood Academy series.
May 1, 2026
this was such an insightful prequel! I loved getting behind the scenes of everything & can’t wait to start Ruinous Ends! this book reminded me why I absolutely LOVE Immortal Consequences! August & Wren are everything, even if it frustrated me to no end with his self-sabotaging. Excited to start my Immortal Consequences reread with the audio, then onto Ruinous Fates!
April 4, 2026
I was so happy to receive an ARC of this novella right after I finished the ARC of Ruinous Ends! I needed more of August and Wren in my life. They are one of my favorite couples ever! I absolutely loved getting more insight into Blackwood Academy and the afterlife and magic system. I also loved getting to see how their love-hate relationship began and, of course, all the tension and banter and forced proximity!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Thank you to NetGalley, Random House Children's Books, Delacorte Press, and I.V. Marie for the opportunity to read Twisted Vows in exchange for an honest review.
Twisted Vows is a novella that directly ties in to Immortal Consequences, the first of The Souls of Blackwood series. The events of the novella occur a few years before the Decennial (an event in which students can "ascend" and keep their memories from their lives). The novella alternates between the third-person perspectives of fan-favorite characters Wren and Augustine. While this novella could be a fun prequel, I highly recommend reading Immortal Consequences first, as there are some terms and even some key aspects of character that are definitely spoilers.
The novella follows Wren as a new student at Blackwood. As one might imagine, she has a hard time coping with the concept of being dead. Blackwood Academy is there to teach her various forms of magic to eventually be someone who helps souls cross over. Blackwood is more like a purgatory for the young. When she does finally get the push she needs to start attending classes, from a classmate who explains how Wren most certainly does not want to end up in "reformatory," she finds it's not all that bad. But rumors of "The Demon of Blackwood" hit her long before her first class.
Enter Augustine, who will do anything to save himself and screw up Decennial opportunities for others. He is expecting Wren. She is the "catalyst." Knowing what the reader should have gained from Immortal Consequences regarding August's character and motives, seeing this early representation of the Demien Order's plans and his involvement with Wren offers a more intense aspect to his feelings and the relationship that eventually blooms.
It's an enemies-to-lovers grapple as the two are teamed up together for a mystical scavenger hunt. Wren may not be magically ready, but August doesn't expect how emotionally unprepared he is if harm comes Wren's way.
There is absolutely nothing negative to say about this novella. I enjoyed it even more than the novel, and I believe that has to do with how concise it is, with the main focus being on just two characters (instead of six), and the two that I personally enjoyed reading the most in the main novel. There are also some fun cameos from other characters who have third-person perspective chapters in the main novel, other than Wren and August. I truly loved seeing the perspective of someone newly dead and new to Blackwood Academy, diving more into what that process may be like for students on a more intimate, individual level. I also enjoyed some of the more sinister elements to the novel. I know they are already dead, but that doesn't mean they can't be taken out of play for an extended period of time for nefarious means!
If you loved Immortal Consequences, I highly recommend this novella. It is very worth the time, especially if you are a Wren+August fan. If you came across this first and it peaks your interest, please go read Immortal Consequences first and immediately! Enjoy!
Twisted Vows is a novella that directly ties in to Immortal Consequences, the first of The Souls of Blackwood series. The events of the novella occur a few years before the Decennial (an event in which students can "ascend" and keep their memories from their lives). The novella alternates between the third-person perspectives of fan-favorite characters Wren and Augustine. While this novella could be a fun prequel, I highly recommend reading Immortal Consequences first, as there are some terms and even some key aspects of character that are definitely spoilers.
The novella follows Wren as a new student at Blackwood. As one might imagine, she has a hard time coping with the concept of being dead. Blackwood Academy is there to teach her various forms of magic to eventually be someone who helps souls cross over. Blackwood is more like a purgatory for the young. When she does finally get the push she needs to start attending classes, from a classmate who explains how Wren most certainly does not want to end up in "reformatory," she finds it's not all that bad. But rumors of "The Demon of Blackwood" hit her long before her first class.
Enter Augustine, who will do anything to save himself and screw up Decennial opportunities for others. He is expecting Wren. She is the "catalyst." Knowing what the reader should have gained from Immortal Consequences regarding August's character and motives, seeing this early representation of the Demien Order's plans and his involvement with Wren offers a more intense aspect to his feelings and the relationship that eventually blooms.
It's an enemies-to-lovers grapple as the two are teamed up together for a mystical scavenger hunt. Wren may not be magically ready, but August doesn't expect how emotionally unprepared he is if harm comes Wren's way.
There is absolutely nothing negative to say about this novella. I enjoyed it even more than the novel, and I believe that has to do with how concise it is, with the main focus being on just two characters (instead of six), and the two that I personally enjoyed reading the most in the main novel. There are also some fun cameos from other characters who have third-person perspective chapters in the main novel, other than Wren and August. I truly loved seeing the perspective of someone newly dead and new to Blackwood Academy, diving more into what that process may be like for students on a more intimate, individual level. I also enjoyed some of the more sinister elements to the novel. I know they are already dead, but that doesn't mean they can't be taken out of play for an extended period of time for nefarious means!
If you loved Immortal Consequences, I highly recommend this novella. It is very worth the time, especially if you are a Wren+August fan. If you came across this first and it peaks your interest, please go read Immortal Consequences first and immediately! Enjoy!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
This novella is for all the Atlas Six fans who didn't get enough Nico/Libby content.
Twisted Vows is a novella taking place before the events of Immortal Consequences and focusing on two of the six POV characters: Wren and August. For those of you who are wondering: yes, it does spoil book 1; no, I don't think it spoils book 2 (I will update when I finish it); no, you do not *need* to read it to understand the plot, it just gives a bit more character backstory; yes, it's a bit self-indulgent. In general, it's a very short read that I would've devoured in one sitting if I had the time, and I definitely appreciated some more insight into August and Wren's history.
Wren Loughty has just arrived at Blackwood Academy when she's partnered with the infamous Augustine Hughes for an assignment. The goal? Solve three puzzles to retrieve three gemstones or face the consequences. The plot basically follows Wren and August as they banter through the three puzzles. The stakes are fairly high, and the pacing is quick, but I wouldn't go into this expecting mind-boggling twists. The plot itself is straightforward, and the ending sets up for the Wren and August readers know and love. I did want more, but I understand that this is a novella, so I'm not overly upset about the bonus content we did get.
The point of the novella is really to develop the characters, and I think it accomplishes that well. Seeing Blackwood from the POV of Wren when she first arrives was helpful from a worldbuilding standpoint, but it also made me appreciate Wren more. In the first book, we kind of start with Wren in the middle of her arc, but this gives us the beginning of her time at Blackwood. August's POV was the one that got even more much-needed depth, especially given certain pieces of his backstory that I wanted to see fleshed out at the end of book one. We learn more about his life prior to Blackwood, including how he died - which is something I desperately wanted to know for all the protagonists - as well as some context behind his interactions with Wren. I'm still a bit confused about what time period he's from, but I'm hoping it'll be resolved sooner than later. Also, there are some cameos from other fan favorite characters, most notably Olivier, for all of his fans.
Twisted Vows is a prequel novella for the Souls of Blackwood Academy series, perfect for readers who want banter, puzzles, and plenty of tension in the form of a story that can be devoured in a day.
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for the free e-ARC!
4/5
Twisted Vows is a novella taking place before the events of Immortal Consequences and focusing on two of the six POV characters: Wren and August. For those of you who are wondering: yes, it does spoil book 1; no, I don't think it spoils book 2 (I will update when I finish it); no, you do not *need* to read it to understand the plot, it just gives a bit more character backstory; yes, it's a bit self-indulgent. In general, it's a very short read that I would've devoured in one sitting if I had the time, and I definitely appreciated some more insight into August and Wren's history.
Wren Loughty has just arrived at Blackwood Academy when she's partnered with the infamous Augustine Hughes for an assignment. The goal? Solve three puzzles to retrieve three gemstones or face the consequences. The plot basically follows Wren and August as they banter through the three puzzles. The stakes are fairly high, and the pacing is quick, but I wouldn't go into this expecting mind-boggling twists. The plot itself is straightforward, and the ending sets up for the Wren and August readers know and love. I did want more, but I understand that this is a novella, so I'm not overly upset about the bonus content we did get.
The point of the novella is really to develop the characters, and I think it accomplishes that well. Seeing Blackwood from the POV of Wren when she first arrives was helpful from a worldbuilding standpoint, but it also made me appreciate Wren more. In the first book, we kind of start with Wren in the middle of her arc, but this gives us the beginning of her time at Blackwood. August's POV was the one that got even more much-needed depth, especially given certain pieces of his backstory that I wanted to see fleshed out at the end of book one. We learn more about his life prior to Blackwood, including how he died - which is something I desperately wanted to know for all the protagonists - as well as some context behind his interactions with Wren. I'm still a bit confused about what time period he's from, but I'm hoping it'll be resolved sooner than later. Also, there are some cameos from other fan favorite characters, most notably Olivier, for all of his fans.
Twisted Vows is a prequel novella for the Souls of Blackwood Academy series, perfect for readers who want banter, puzzles, and plenty of tension in the form of a story that can be devoured in a day.
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for the free e-ARC!
4/5
April 25, 2026
okay so i'm going to need everyone to drop what they're doing because Twisted Vows absolutely delivered on every single thing i wanted from this prequel and then some.
i.v. marie understood the assignment. you give us a beloved couple in Immortal Consequences, fans inevitably start screaming for the backstory, and instead of half-heartedly tossing us a 50-page bonus chapter, we get this — a full novella that actually does the work of character development. and that's the thing about prequels, right? the bar is genuinely on the floor most of the time. half of them just exist to milk a beloved IP. this one earns its place.
stripping the POV down to just wren and august was the right call. Immortal Consequences juggles six perspectives, which i love, but giving these two the full spotlight lets us actually sit inside their dynamic without anyone else's emotional weather competing for airtime. the tension works because we get to feel every shift from both sides — wren's disorientation and grief curdling into spite, august already complicated and getting more complicated by the second. the "demon of blackwood" branding could've been so cringe in a lesser writer's hands but marie sells it.
and the worldbuilding!! i've been obsessed with blackwood since book one but novellas tend to assume you don't need or want more lore. this one quietly expands the campus, the magical curriculum, the soul-guiding mechanics, all of it, without ever stopping to lecture you. the gothic atmosphere is so well-rendered i could basically smell the stone.
the banter is doing exactly what it needs to do. the tension is unhinged in the best way. the "she'd hate him for the rest of eternity" of it all is going to live in my head rent-free until the next book.
genuinely i would read a grocery list if these characters were in it. i'm so deep in this series it's not even funny.
if you loved Immortal Consequences this is non-negotiable. if you haven't read Immortal Consequences yet — first of all, why, and second, you could honestly start here and be totally fine.
5 stars, foil cover gorgeous, endpapers a dream, will be screaming about this on tiktok shortly.
i.v. marie understood the assignment. you give us a beloved couple in Immortal Consequences, fans inevitably start screaming for the backstory, and instead of half-heartedly tossing us a 50-page bonus chapter, we get this — a full novella that actually does the work of character development. and that's the thing about prequels, right? the bar is genuinely on the floor most of the time. half of them just exist to milk a beloved IP. this one earns its place.
stripping the POV down to just wren and august was the right call. Immortal Consequences juggles six perspectives, which i love, but giving these two the full spotlight lets us actually sit inside their dynamic without anyone else's emotional weather competing for airtime. the tension works because we get to feel every shift from both sides — wren's disorientation and grief curdling into spite, august already complicated and getting more complicated by the second. the "demon of blackwood" branding could've been so cringe in a lesser writer's hands but marie sells it.
and the worldbuilding!! i've been obsessed with blackwood since book one but novellas tend to assume you don't need or want more lore. this one quietly expands the campus, the magical curriculum, the soul-guiding mechanics, all of it, without ever stopping to lecture you. the gothic atmosphere is so well-rendered i could basically smell the stone.
the banter is doing exactly what it needs to do. the tension is unhinged in the best way. the "she'd hate him for the rest of eternity" of it all is going to live in my head rent-free until the next book.
genuinely i would read a grocery list if these characters were in it. i'm so deep in this series it's not even funny.
if you loved Immortal Consequences this is non-negotiable. if you haven't read Immortal Consequences yet — first of all, why, and second, you could honestly start here and be totally fine.
5 stars, foil cover gorgeous, endpapers a dream, will be screaming about this on tiktok shortly.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Rating: 4.75⭐️
I would quite literally read a grocery list if it was written by I.V. Marie. This book is the blueprint of yearning. The origin story. The foundation. The ancient text of whatever is going on between Wren and August.
Going back to Blackwood Academy felt like returning home (except the home is haunted, emotionally unstable, and full of unresolved tension). I loved getting to dive deeper into the magic system again. It never stops being interesting. I need the small details to be injected directly into my veins. I loved how the magical schedule map works. And the whole explanation about language in the afterlife was a nice touch. The fact that the languages of the living world no longer exist, and that everyone is essentially reborn with a universal translator, adds so much depth and immersion. It makes the world feel real in that eerie, unsettling way that just works.
Okay. Now let me talk about Wren and August again. I need a moment because the push and pull between them was EXQUISITE. Every conversation feels like they’re one step away from either a mental breakdown or an angry love confession in the rain (do they have rain in the afterlife?). There is not a single dull moment when they’re on the page together. I love them in a slightly concerning way.
And yes, plot-wise, this is a prequel novella, so it’s not packed with heavy action or major plot progression. But that’s not the point. This is about understanding them. Why they are the way they are. How they got here. Why their dynamic in Immortal Consequences feels like emotional warfare disguised as tension. And honestly, that alone made it worth it. It still has that same compelling, addictive charm. Just quieter and more personal.
════════════════════════
Thank you to Random House and NetGalley for the ARC!
I would quite literally read a grocery list if it was written by I.V. Marie. This book is the blueprint of yearning. The origin story. The foundation. The ancient text of whatever is going on between Wren and August.
Going back to Blackwood Academy felt like returning home (except the home is haunted, emotionally unstable, and full of unresolved tension). I loved getting to dive deeper into the magic system again. It never stops being interesting. I need the small details to be injected directly into my veins. I loved how the magical schedule map works. And the whole explanation about language in the afterlife was a nice touch. The fact that the languages of the living world no longer exist, and that everyone is essentially reborn with a universal translator, adds so much depth and immersion. It makes the world feel real in that eerie, unsettling way that just works.
Okay. Now let me talk about Wren and August again. I need a moment because the push and pull between them was EXQUISITE. Every conversation feels like they’re one step away from either a mental breakdown or an angry love confession in the rain (do they have rain in the afterlife?). There is not a single dull moment when they’re on the page together. I love them in a slightly concerning way.
And yes, plot-wise, this is a prequel novella, so it’s not packed with heavy action or major plot progression. But that’s not the point. This is about understanding them. Why they are the way they are. How they got here. Why their dynamic in Immortal Consequences feels like emotional warfare disguised as tension. And honestly, that alone made it worth it. It still has that same compelling, addictive charm. Just quieter and more personal.
════════════════════════
Thank you to Random House and NetGalley for the ARC!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
I have been obsessed with this order and more specifically August and Wren since I first read Immortal Consequences, so I was very excited when I heard about this prequel. Twisted Vows centers around August & Wren and focuses on their first meeting and early interactions. This was such a unique take since we get to see Wren’s first moments at Blackwood Academy after her death and take a deep dive into August’s mindset and past. I absolutely loved seeing this especially after just reading the finale, Ruinous Ends. This novella hit so much harder since I know how this series ends for August and Wren.
I have loved August and Wren from their first time I read about them but their first meeting felt so special. From their first interaction they have an insane connection that is hard for them to ignore. And even though August is The Demon of Blackwood Wren has never been afraid of him. I personally love that micro trope and found it so fitting for them. Their banter was spot on and I loved seeing the start of their rivalry. My heart has to go out to August after reading his POV in this novella. It makes his story come full circle and provides some amazing background to his character. Plus we are briefly introduced to some of the other main characters from Immortal Consequences which I absolutely loved.
I really have no complaints except I wish it was longer. This story was emotional, full of magic, banter, and set the foundation to the main duology I love. I will forever want more from this world and the characters. I.V. Marie did a fantastic job with this series and it has quickly become one of my favorites. I can’t wait for more from the author!
Thank you to NetGalley, Random House Children’s Books, and the author for an advanced copy!
I have loved August and Wren from their first time I read about them but their first meeting felt so special. From their first interaction they have an insane connection that is hard for them to ignore. And even though August is The Demon of Blackwood Wren has never been afraid of him. I personally love that micro trope and found it so fitting for them. Their banter was spot on and I loved seeing the start of their rivalry. My heart has to go out to August after reading his POV in this novella. It makes his story come full circle and provides some amazing background to his character. Plus we are briefly introduced to some of the other main characters from Immortal Consequences which I absolutely loved.
I really have no complaints except I wish it was longer. This story was emotional, full of magic, banter, and set the foundation to the main duology I love. I will forever want more from this world and the characters. I.V. Marie did a fantastic job with this series and it has quickly become one of my favorites. I can’t wait for more from the author!
Thank you to NetGalley, Random House Children’s Books, and the author for an advanced copy!
May 16, 2026
They have no idea what’s coming!
“Twisted Vows” shows us Wrens first days at the Blackwood Academy as she works through the strangeness of purgatory and reeling from her death, things much bigger than her are already in motion. August has his orders and follows them as his sister expects, only problem, is that he is finding himself warming up to the new student and not only is that bad for his plan but it’s worse for his reputation.
I loved this as an opening, you get to see the Wren we only have glimpses of after all the years in between this and the first book. You see the push pull between her and August, the reason for their academic rivalry and why they just can’t untangle themselves from the other. August is bound by duty and focused on the endgame so the strange feelings of longing and wanting to protect conflict with what he should want but he does it anyway. Wren is just trying to make it and puts her loyalties in the wrong person though maybe not quite the worst bet she makes.
Seeing these early days really cements what will be their dynamic but makes you sad for what could have been if they were allowed the time to grow from that initial point without all the players manipulating them around the campus chessboard for their own gain. I’m always a fan of enemies to lovers but with this novella it’s clear that category doesn’t quite fit and I love it all the more.
**special thanks to the publishers and netgalley for providing an arc in exchange for a fair and honest review**
“Twisted Vows” shows us Wrens first days at the Blackwood Academy as she works through the strangeness of purgatory and reeling from her death, things much bigger than her are already in motion. August has his orders and follows them as his sister expects, only problem, is that he is finding himself warming up to the new student and not only is that bad for his plan but it’s worse for his reputation.
I loved this as an opening, you get to see the Wren we only have glimpses of after all the years in between this and the first book. You see the push pull between her and August, the reason for their academic rivalry and why they just can’t untangle themselves from the other. August is bound by duty and focused on the endgame so the strange feelings of longing and wanting to protect conflict with what he should want but he does it anyway. Wren is just trying to make it and puts her loyalties in the wrong person though maybe not quite the worst bet she makes.
Seeing these early days really cements what will be their dynamic but makes you sad for what could have been if they were allowed the time to grow from that initial point without all the players manipulating them around the campus chessboard for their own gain. I’m always a fan of enemies to lovers but with this novella it’s clear that category doesn’t quite fit and I love it all the more.
**special thanks to the publishers and netgalley for providing an arc in exchange for a fair and honest review**
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
One of the things I struggled with while reading Immortal Consequences was all the apparent history of Wren and August that we as readers were not privy to. Getting to experience their origin story really brings this whole series full circle for me.
Honestly, I think this may be my favorite book in the series. While I loved all the characters and getting all their points of view, it was really nice to have a focus specifically on a pair. I wouldn't mind if we could have this type of novella for the remaining characters as well.
I absolutely adore August's immediately love for Wren and his conflicted emotions around who he thought he was and who he actually is. I really enjoyed seeing his relationship blossom with Wren and how he self sabotages throughout the book.
I also really appreciated getting to experience Wren's struggle with accepting her death and where she has ended up. Seeing her desperate to make a connection with someone is both heartbreaking and heartwarming. She's trying so hard to hold on to her human emotions, but things are so vastly different, watching her process her new life is really an amazing character study.
I really , truly enjoyed this peek into the beginnings of Wren and August, and it makes the ending of Ruinous Ends all the more special. This is a must read for sure for anyone who has read this series!
Honestly, I think this may be my favorite book in the series. While I loved all the characters and getting all their points of view, it was really nice to have a focus specifically on a pair. I wouldn't mind if we could have this type of novella for the remaining characters as well.
I absolutely adore August's immediately love for Wren and his conflicted emotions around who he thought he was and who he actually is. I really enjoyed seeing his relationship blossom with Wren and how he self sabotages throughout the book.
I also really appreciated getting to experience Wren's struggle with accepting her death and where she has ended up. Seeing her desperate to make a connection with someone is both heartbreaking and heartwarming. She's trying so hard to hold on to her human emotions, but things are so vastly different, watching her process her new life is really an amazing character study.
I really , truly enjoyed this peek into the beginnings of Wren and August, and it makes the ending of Ruinous Ends all the more special. This is a must read for sure for anyone who has read this series!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Thank you Random House Children's Books | Delacorte Press & netgalley for the arc of this book !!
»»——— ᢉ𐭩 ———««
As an wrenaugust enthusiast, what a treat it was, it was sharp and a little adducting but oh my god I just love their banter so so much, as someone who read "immortal consequences" recently, I am so obsessed with the series, it's absolutely amazing, the way iv Marie writes is so addicting and phenomenal and this series is deeply ingrained in my mind, the way book 1 ended i am literally waiting to impatient to read book of this series but this novella helped that urge so much.
I loved how it's about wren and August how they met, their banter and honestly in the 2nd like how they are soul mates and how I want them to end up togather in book 2 so so badly, the concept of finding your soul mate in purgatory and in an academy is so so romantic to me and I am absolutely rooting for these 2, and the way she pushed him off the edge in this novella ahhhh and how he lets her do it, God I am just so much in love 🗣🩷✋️
We also get to met some of the others as well, especially my fav boy oliver to hehe, all in all I love it so so much and I can't wait to read book two.
»»——— ᢉ𐭩 ———««
As an wrenaugust enthusiast, what a treat it was, it was sharp and a little adducting but oh my god I just love their banter so so much, as someone who read "immortal consequences" recently, I am so obsessed with the series, it's absolutely amazing, the way iv Marie writes is so addicting and phenomenal and this series is deeply ingrained in my mind, the way book 1 ended i am literally waiting to impatient to read book of this series but this novella helped that urge so much.
I loved how it's about wren and August how they met, their banter and honestly in the 2nd like how they are soul mates and how I want them to end up togather in book 2 so so badly, the concept of finding your soul mate in purgatory and in an academy is so so romantic to me and I am absolutely rooting for these 2, and the way she pushed him off the edge in this novella ahhhh and how he lets her do it, God I am just so much in love 🗣🩷✋️
We also get to met some of the others as well, especially my fav boy oliver to hehe, all in all I love it so so much and I can't wait to read book two.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 12, 2026
The beginning of Wren and August! This was everything I was hoping for. I have absolutely loved these two and getting to see how it all started was such a treat. I could honestly read anything from this series and I’m still hoping we’ll get more in the future. This is a novella so it’s quick and fast paced. There is a bit of action involved and so much yearning from the get go. Both August and Wren have chapters from their POVs in the book. It’s interesting to see just how quickly they had a friendship and connection. I was really happy that some of the other main characters from the duology have short appearances in this book as well.
This is a prequel novella but it definitely needs to be read after the duology to avoid spoilers. I’m glad I read this after both because I needed to be back with these characters one more time and I’m happy it was in such a fun and sweet way.
Thank you to NetGalley and Random House Children’s Books, Delacorte Press for the opportunity to read this book. All opinions are my own.
This is a prequel novella but it definitely needs to be read after the duology to avoid spoilers. I’m glad I read this after both because I needed to be back with these characters one more time and I’m happy it was in such a fun and sweet way.
Thank you to NetGalley and Random House Children’s Books, Delacorte Press for the opportunity to read this book. All opinions are my own.
April 3, 2026
ARC received in exchange for an honest review.
Twisted Vows is everything I wanted from a Wren & August prequel and more. The academic rivalry, the glimpse into Blackwood before the Decennial, cameos from old friends and introductions to new ones. I tore through it in just over an hour, because I am that desperate to spend just a little more time in Blackwood Academy (although I know each and every main character would disagree with me there). It’s rare to get a detailed, published backstory for a series, so I was thrilled to get approved for this ARC before book two was even officially out. Wren and August are two of the most tortured star-crossed lovers I have ever seen, and getting insight into their bond during Wren’s first days at Blackwood, only to face August’s ultimate betrayal was agonizing and euphoric all at once. If this is the last we see of Blackwood Academy, so be it…but I will be watching Marie’s upcoming projects with interest.
Twisted Vows is everything I wanted from a Wren & August prequel and more. The academic rivalry, the glimpse into Blackwood before the Decennial, cameos from old friends and introductions to new ones. I tore through it in just over an hour, because I am that desperate to spend just a little more time in Blackwood Academy (although I know each and every main character would disagree with me there). It’s rare to get a detailed, published backstory for a series, so I was thrilled to get approved for this ARC before book two was even officially out. Wren and August are two of the most tortured star-crossed lovers I have ever seen, and getting insight into their bond during Wren’s first days at Blackwood, only to face August’s ultimate betrayal was agonizing and euphoric all at once. If this is the last we see of Blackwood Academy, so be it…but I will be watching Marie’s upcoming projects with interest.
April 11, 2026
Thank you to NetGalley and Delacorte for the ARC!
"𝘈𝘶𝘨𝘶𝘴𝘵𝘪𝘯𝘦 𝘏𝘶𝘨𝘩𝘦𝘴 𝘸𝘰𝘶𝘭𝘥 𝘱𝘳𝘰𝘵𝘦𝘤𝘵 𝘞𝘳𝘦𝘯 𝘓𝘰𝘶𝘨𝘩𝘵𝘺 𝘧𝘰𝘳 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘳𝘦𝘴𝘵 𝘰𝘧 𝘵𝘩𝘦𝘪𝘳 𝘦𝘵𝘦𝘳𝘯𝘪𝘵𝘺. 𝘌𝘷𝘦𝘯 𝘪𝘧 𝘵𝘩𝘢𝘵 𝘮𝘦𝘢𝘯𝘵 𝘱𝘳𝘰𝘵𝘦𝘤𝘵𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘩𝘦𝘳 𝘧𝘳𝘰𝘮 𝘩𝘪𝘮𝘴𝘦𝘭𝘧."
I'm so glad this book exists because it dives into plot and character lore that I wanted to see from Immortal Consequences. It was so fun getting to read the beginning of Wren and August's relationship, along with more of their backstory. I loved getting to see other recognizable characters from the main series and their connections before the events of the Decennial.
One thing for me is that describing August as The Demon of Blackwood, I expected to see a darker side of him than what was given. Besides one moment, he didn't give off that vibe at all, or having some previous lore as to how he got that nickname would have made more sense.
But I love these characters and the academia world of the afterlife that I.V. Marie has created! Forever grateful this series exists 🖤
"𝘈𝘶𝘨𝘶𝘴𝘵𝘪𝘯𝘦 𝘏𝘶𝘨𝘩𝘦𝘴 𝘸𝘰𝘶𝘭𝘥 𝘱𝘳𝘰𝘵𝘦𝘤𝘵 𝘞𝘳𝘦𝘯 𝘓𝘰𝘶𝘨𝘩𝘵𝘺 𝘧𝘰𝘳 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘳𝘦𝘴𝘵 𝘰𝘧 𝘵𝘩𝘦𝘪𝘳 𝘦𝘵𝘦𝘳𝘯𝘪𝘵𝘺. 𝘌𝘷𝘦𝘯 𝘪𝘧 𝘵𝘩𝘢𝘵 𝘮𝘦𝘢𝘯𝘵 𝘱𝘳𝘰𝘵𝘦𝘤𝘵𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘩𝘦𝘳 𝘧𝘳𝘰𝘮 𝘩𝘪𝘮𝘴𝘦𝘭𝘧."
I'm so glad this book exists because it dives into plot and character lore that I wanted to see from Immortal Consequences. It was so fun getting to read the beginning of Wren and August's relationship, along with more of their backstory. I loved getting to see other recognizable characters from the main series and their connections before the events of the Decennial.
One thing for me is that describing August as The Demon of Blackwood, I expected to see a darker side of him than what was given. Besides one moment, he didn't give off that vibe at all, or having some previous lore as to how he got that nickname would have made more sense.
But I love these characters and the academia world of the afterlife that I.V. Marie has created! Forever grateful this series exists 🖤
April 12, 2026
4.5 Stars
Thanks so much to NetGalley and Delacorte Press for the e-arc. Twisted Vows is the prequel novella to the Souls of Blackwood series and will be out on October 6th, 2026.
First of all you definitely want to finish the original duology before this novella. This second book is out this July. I had so much fun reading this similar to how I felt about the originally books. This novella is focused on Wren and August. I do miss the other characters in this one but nonetheless I still really enjoyed learning more about Wren and August. I love the setting of Blackwood Academy and reading this makes me sad we are already done with this series. I would love to read more about the other characters and their earlier days at Blackwood.
Overall quick and solid read. I.V. Marie I am anxiously awaiting your next book whether it be about Blackwood Academy or something new entirely :).
Thanks so much to NetGalley and Delacorte Press for the e-arc. Twisted Vows is the prequel novella to the Souls of Blackwood series and will be out on October 6th, 2026.
First of all you definitely want to finish the original duology before this novella. This second book is out this July. I had so much fun reading this similar to how I felt about the originally books. This novella is focused on Wren and August. I do miss the other characters in this one but nonetheless I still really enjoyed learning more about Wren and August. I love the setting of Blackwood Academy and reading this makes me sad we are already done with this series. I would love to read more about the other characters and their earlier days at Blackwood.
Overall quick and solid read. I.V. Marie I am anxiously awaiting your next book whether it be about Blackwood Academy or something new entirely :).
May 16, 2026
Thank You NetGalley for the ARC for in exchange for an honest review!
I originally picked up Immortal Consequences because it was a gorgeous Book of the Month pick that sounded interesting, but I was NOT prepared for the absolute choke hold that story would have on me. So going into this novella, my expectations were already high and damn, it still delivered.
This was such a perfect little return to Wren and August. The emotions, the tension, the banter! (Insert feet kicking) Gahh!!
I loved getting more moments with them and diving back into this world again. Even in novella form, I.V. Marie managed to make me completely invested all over again.
Now I’m sitting here desperately needing book two because I am far too attached to these characters now. If you loved Immortal Consequences, this is absolutely worth picking up.
I originally picked up Immortal Consequences because it was a gorgeous Book of the Month pick that sounded interesting, but I was NOT prepared for the absolute choke hold that story would have on me. So going into this novella, my expectations were already high and damn, it still delivered.
This was such a perfect little return to Wren and August. The emotions, the tension, the banter! (Insert feet kicking) Gahh!!
I loved getting more moments with them and diving back into this world again. Even in novella form, I.V. Marie managed to make me completely invested all over again.
Now I’m sitting here desperately needing book two because I am far too attached to these characters now. If you loved Immortal Consequences, this is absolutely worth picking up.
Review of advance copy received from Edelweiss+
This was alright. My issue with book 1 was the lack of world building, and this one still didn't really flesh out the world all that much (I want to see more classes in a "dark academia" book). We got some more character dynamics, which was fine, but I feel like in book 1 August and Wren were already some of the more developed characters of the 6. The plot in this book didn't really seem to tie into the plot of book 1 in a meaningful way .
Overall it was fine. I do think the world is intriguing and I do generally like the cast, so I plan on continuing the series.
*I read an eARC from Edelweiß
Overall it was fine. I do think the world is intriguing and I do generally like the cast, so I plan on continuing the series.
*I read an eARC from Edelweiß
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
*review of Advanced Reader's Copy provided by NetGalley*
Thank you NetGalley and Random House Children’s for the honor of being able to read this E-ARC in exchange for an honest review!
Going from finishing Ruinous Ends and being so sad to be away from these characters and then reading this was very fulfilling. I personally think Wren might be my favorite character (I say might be because I truly do love them all so much in different levels) so getting to see these extra glimpses of her thoughts was so satisfying. Also getting to see into August’s thoughts from the very beginning of them meeting was so… *chef’s kiss*
Honestly, the yearning is yearning, the excitement is exciting, and the tension is delicious.
Super cute and a GREAT addition and cherry on top for this series!! ♥️
Thank you NetGalley and Random House Children’s for the honor of being able to read this E-ARC in exchange for an honest review!
Going from finishing Ruinous Ends and being so sad to be away from these characters and then reading this was very fulfilling. I personally think Wren might be my favorite character (I say might be because I truly do love them all so much in different levels) so getting to see these extra glimpses of her thoughts was so satisfying. Also getting to see into August’s thoughts from the very beginning of them meeting was so… *chef’s kiss*
Honestly, the yearning is yearning, the excitement is exciting, and the tension is delicious.
Super cute and a GREAT addition and cherry on top for this series!! ♥️
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
I’m so happy I got this novella because Wren and August are my favorite characters in the Souls of Blackwood Academy world! I’ve always loved their banter, and this book just showed the origin of their tension and banter. I love it so much! Getting a glimpse at their past and how they met was truly a wonderful experience! I had a favorite scene in this book, like ahhh, it was so good, but I won’t spoil anything. We also see some cameos of characters from Immortal Consequences and Ruinous Ends in this book! Though I wish we got more of Wren and August’s story developed in this book, either way I really enjoyed it!🩵⋆.˚ ☾⭒.˚
Thank you so much to Random House Children's Books | Delacorte Press and NetGalley for the arc!
Thank you so much to Random House Children's Books | Delacorte Press and NetGalley for the arc!
Want to Read
April 21, 2026This story made me like Augustus even more I liked his pov more than Wren’s, he’s an intriguing character and his past is all a mystery you slowly get guided into his character his character voice lures you into reading more having you turning the pages he’s a really fleshed out character the romance between him and Wren was sweet, it wasn’t my cup of tea, but I liked regardless the tension was there and they seemed moments from kissing I was rooting for them, but I know it wouldn’t happened. I identified with Wren in this book the feeling of being new to something, and being in the dark at the beginning I got this sense more in this book than in the first one. This was an entertaining read and I enjoyed it.
Thanks Netgalley and the Publisher for the arc.
Thanks Netgalley and the Publisher for the arc.
April 3, 2026
Thank you to Netgalley and Random House Children’s Books | Delacorte Press for an early copy of this book.
I was so excited when I got approved for this as I really enjoyed Immortal Consequences. It was so interesting to see what led up to it with Wren and August. The background of how Wren got to the school was the best part for me. I kind of wish we knew more. This novella just kind of grazed over it. But I did really enjoy the banter between Wren and August. Also how does a ghost get cold? I was wondering about that. Overall though I had a fun time reading this and will definitely read Ruinous Creatures when it comes out.
I was so excited when I got approved for this as I really enjoyed Immortal Consequences. It was so interesting to see what led up to it with Wren and August. The background of how Wren got to the school was the best part for me. I kind of wish we knew more. This novella just kind of grazed over it. But I did really enjoy the banter between Wren and August. Also how does a ghost get cold? I was wondering about that. Overall though I had a fun time reading this and will definitely read Ruinous Creatures when it comes out.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
4.75-5 stars
Wow.
After reading (and being emotionally destroyed by, in the best way) Ruinous Ends, I was not ready to let this world go (August in particular).
This prequel helped me say goodbye (though I wouldn't be opposed to coming back to this world!!!) Seeing Wren and August's beginning was a balm to my soul and everything that came with it!
The Scavenger Hunt
The Cameos
The insight into how the school functioned (both academically and its social dynamic)
The YEARNING
Thank you so much, NetGalley, Delacorte Press, and especially I. V. Marie for writing this book and allowing me access to the ARC copy in exchange for my honest review!
Wow.
After reading (and being emotionally destroyed by, in the best way) Ruinous Ends, I was not ready to let this world go (August in particular).
This prequel helped me say goodbye (though I wouldn't be opposed to coming back to this world!!!) Seeing Wren and August's beginning was a balm to my soul and everything that came with it!
The Scavenger Hunt
The Cameos
The insight into how the school functioned (both academically and its social dynamic)
The YEARNING
Thank you so much, NetGalley, Delacorte Press, and especially I. V. Marie for writing this book and allowing me access to the ARC copy in exchange for my honest review!
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