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To Curse an Alpha
ONE CRAFTY WITCH. ONE FERAL PROTECTOR. NO ESCAPE.
Lily has a plan to escape the government’s secret research island: die.
With a cursed Death Rose in hand, she’s one fake death away from freedom, but Lily’s too scared to take the plunge. That is, until she recognizes the violent alpha the scientists dragged in.
Tripp isn't the boy she grew up with anymore. He’s a lycan, scarred and dangerous, and the facility wants him broken. But they didn't count on Lily. They didn't count on her sabotage, her forbidden charms, or the fact that she’ll burn down the entire island to keep him safe.
Lily has a plan to escape the government’s secret research island: die.
With a cursed Death Rose in hand, she’s one fake death away from freedom, but Lily’s too scared to take the plunge. That is, until she recognizes the violent alpha the scientists dragged in.
Tripp isn't the boy she grew up with anymore. He’s a lycan, scarred and dangerous, and the facility wants him broken. But they didn't count on Lily. They didn't count on her sabotage, her forbidden charms, or the fact that she’ll burn down the entire island to keep him safe.
115 pages, ebook
First published February 25, 2026
About the author
Victoria Szalay
3 books21 followersVictoria Szalay can’t sit still when she reads a good book. Whenever a scene takes a turn, she sets the book down, turns the music up, and then runs around her house imagining all the ways it could’ve gone sideways. (It drives her family crazy.)
She writes for that same rush, crafting plot-driven urban fantasy and spicy paranormal romance within the Skadra universe. During the day, Victoria works as a computer engineer. She loves dogs, cats, and videos of people who own tarantulas.
She writes for that same rush, crafting plot-driven urban fantasy and spicy paranormal romance within the Skadra universe. During the day, Victoria works as a computer engineer. She loves dogs, cats, and videos of people who own tarantulas.
Ratings & Reviews
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 60 reviews
February 27, 2026
I loved this book! Shape shifting, romance, violence! What more could you ask for! People being dismembered, a man possessive and protective over a woman he loves! With a splash of spice!
May 9, 2026
Really enjoyed this paranormal romance by Victoria Szalay! Magic, shifters, and pixies what else do you need in a book? An obsessed alpha too… Lily and Tripp are absolutely amazing. I’m obsessed with how Tripp is with Lily. Love the magical world and the darkness in it too.
I will definitely be reading everything this author writes!
I will definitely be reading everything this author writes!
April 27, 2026
Quick, easy and fun read! Would have liked to have known a little more of the backstory, or had it described in the start but I caught up quickly and was enjoyable from start to finish
May 1, 2026
I absolutely loved this book 🩵 it pulled me in from the first few pages and I honestly didn’t want to put it down. Lilly and Tripp completely stole my heart their dynamic just worked and kept me hooked the whole way through.
It’s such a fun, easy read that still manages to keep you curious and wanting more. I kept telling myself “just one more chapter” and before I knew it, I was basically done 😅 it’s one of those stories that feels cozy but still exciting at the same time.
I’m so grateful for the ARC copy thank you so much! I would 100% read this again, and I’d honestly love to have a physical copy on my shelf too.
Girls, if you’re looking for something quick, engaging, and just really enjoyable… this one is definitely worth it 🤍 Left me wanting more 🌸N🌸
It’s such a fun, easy read that still manages to keep you curious and wanting more. I kept telling myself “just one more chapter” and before I knew it, I was basically done 😅 it’s one of those stories that feels cozy but still exciting at the same time.
I’m so grateful for the ARC copy thank you so much! I would 100% read this again, and I’d honestly love to have a physical copy on my shelf too.
Girls, if you’re looking for something quick, engaging, and just really enjoyable… this one is definitely worth it 🤍 Left me wanting more 🌸N🌸
April 24, 2026
Took a little bit to get into and figure out what was happening and why of the setting. Would of liked to of known more of the back story (the how we ended up like this) at the beginning of the book rather than it being distributed through the first half of the book. Overall, I enjoyed the book.
April 27, 2026
Received as an ARC from the author.
Tripp and Lily...Honestly, A good story
however, there was little to no back story. There were a few flashbacks of the main characters...but was massively lacking how the two fell in love. We know the brother's best friend troupe, but more details into Tripp and Lily's relationship prior to the story we were given would have helped me to relate to the characters better.
I could definitely see this as the middle book in at least a 3 part series.
Part 1- back story on Tripp and Lily as well as the witch dynamic being explored. Explaining why Lily ran, and how she ended up where she did.
Part 2- this book
Part 3- what happens after the ship docks, and how they negotiate their freedom with each other (both sides of Tripp) and the pixies.
Tripp and Lily...Honestly, A good story
however, there was little to no back story. There were a few flashbacks of the main characters...but was massively lacking how the two fell in love. We know the brother's best friend troupe, but more details into Tripp and Lily's relationship prior to the story we were given would have helped me to relate to the characters better.
I could definitely see this as the middle book in at least a 3 part series.
Part 1- back story on Tripp and Lily as well as the witch dynamic being explored. Explaining why Lily ran, and how she ended up where she did.
Part 2- this book
Part 3- what happens after the ship docks, and how they negotiate their freedom with each other (both sides of Tripp) and the pixies.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 26, 2026
To Curse An Alpha – Victoria Szalay
★★★★☆
Novella in the Skadra Universe
Genre/Tropes
Paranormal Romance, Omegaverse, Witches, Lycan/Werewolf, Fated Mates, Protector MMC, Second Chance Vibes, Forced Proximity
About
One crafty witch. One feral protector. No escape.
Lily is a conscripted government mage trapped on a secret research island, where lycans are experimented on and broken into obedience. Her only escape plan? Fake her own death.
But everything changes when a newly captured lycan is brought in—Tripp, the boy she once knew, now scarred, dangerous, and barely holding onto his humanity.
The facility wants him broken.
They didn’t count on Lily.
Overall Review
This novella was short, emotional, and just the right amount of spice. I love anything with witches and omegaverse elements, so this was right up my alley, and I genuinely enjoyed it.
Even in such a short format, the story felt impactful. The stakes were high from the very beginning, and the tension between survival, sacrifice, and love was woven throughout the entire novella.
What stood out the most to me was the emotional connection between the characters. There’s so much history, pain, and unresolved feelings packed into their dynamic, and it made everything feel more intense.
I do wish this had been a full-length novel. The world, the government control, and the experimentation on lycans were all so interesting, and I would have loved more time to explore that in depth.
Characters
Lily
Lily’s character was heartbreaking in a quiet, heavy way.
She’s been conditioned her entire life to believe she exists for others—her family, the government, anyone but herself. Her internal struggle between wanting freedom and feeling obligated to sacrifice herself for others was really well done.
You can see how deeply that mindset has been ingrained in her
Even when she has the chance to escape, she hesitates—not because she isn’t capable, but because she’s been taught that her life isn’t truly her own.
But what I loved most was her growth. When it really matters, she chooses. She takes control, she fights back in her own way, and she refuses to let the system continue hurting the people she loves.
Tripp
Tripp was such a strong MMC.
He’s been through unimaginable trauma—physically and mentally—and it shows in everything he does. The pain, the anger, the constant fight to hold onto control… it all felt very real.
But even with all of that, one thing never wavers: his need to protect Lily.
Never, he told it. You will never hurt her.
That line alone perfectly sums up his character. No matter how broken he is, no matter what’s been done to him, that instinct to protect her is still there.
I also loved how self-aware he was. He doesn’t pretend to be a good man, doesn’t try to justify what he’s done—but he draws a line when it comes to Lily.
Their Dynamic
Their relationship was intense, emotional, and built on years of history.
There’s this underlying thread of what could have been mixed with what still could be, and it makes every interaction feel heavier.
Tripp is the ultimate protective MMC, but not in a controlling way—in a “I would destroy everything before letting harm come to you” kind of way.
And Lily? She matches that energy in her own way. She’s not physically strong like him, but she’s clever, determined, and willing to risk everything to save him.
He really means it. He’ll really die to keep me alive.
That mutual willingness to sacrifice for each other is what makes their bond so compelling.
Quotes
“Never,” he told it. “You will never hurt her.”
“I care about you more than anything in this world. I’d die for you. Kill for you.”
“Stay away… or I’ll kill him.”
“I could find you anywhere.”
★★★★☆
Novella in the Skadra Universe
Genre/Tropes
Paranormal Romance, Omegaverse, Witches, Lycan/Werewolf, Fated Mates, Protector MMC, Second Chance Vibes, Forced Proximity
About
One crafty witch. One feral protector. No escape.
Lily is a conscripted government mage trapped on a secret research island, where lycans are experimented on and broken into obedience. Her only escape plan? Fake her own death.
But everything changes when a newly captured lycan is brought in—Tripp, the boy she once knew, now scarred, dangerous, and barely holding onto his humanity.
The facility wants him broken.
They didn’t count on Lily.
Overall Review
This novella was short, emotional, and just the right amount of spice. I love anything with witches and omegaverse elements, so this was right up my alley, and I genuinely enjoyed it.
Even in such a short format, the story felt impactful. The stakes were high from the very beginning, and the tension between survival, sacrifice, and love was woven throughout the entire novella.
What stood out the most to me was the emotional connection between the characters. There’s so much history, pain, and unresolved feelings packed into their dynamic, and it made everything feel more intense.
I do wish this had been a full-length novel. The world, the government control, and the experimentation on lycans were all so interesting, and I would have loved more time to explore that in depth.
Characters
Lily
Lily’s character was heartbreaking in a quiet, heavy way.
She’s been conditioned her entire life to believe she exists for others—her family, the government, anyone but herself. Her internal struggle between wanting freedom and feeling obligated to sacrifice herself for others was really well done.
You can see how deeply that mindset has been ingrained in her
Was she being selfish to want a life for herself? Everything in her screamed yes.
Even when she has the chance to escape, she hesitates—not because she isn’t capable, but because she’s been taught that her life isn’t truly her own.
But what I loved most was her growth. When it really matters, she chooses. She takes control, she fights back in her own way, and she refuses to let the system continue hurting the people she loves.
Tripp
Tripp was such a strong MMC.
He’s been through unimaginable trauma—physically and mentally—and it shows in everything he does. The pain, the anger, the constant fight to hold onto control… it all felt very real.
But even with all of that, one thing never wavers: his need to protect Lily.
Never, he told it. You will never hurt her.
That line alone perfectly sums up his character. No matter how broken he is, no matter what’s been done to him, that instinct to protect her is still there.
I also loved how self-aware he was. He doesn’t pretend to be a good man, doesn’t try to justify what he’s done—but he draws a line when it comes to Lily.
Their Dynamic
Their relationship was intense, emotional, and built on years of history.
There’s this underlying thread of what could have been mixed with what still could be, and it makes every interaction feel heavier.
Tripp is the ultimate protective MMC, but not in a controlling way—in a “I would destroy everything before letting harm come to you” kind of way.
And Lily? She matches that energy in her own way. She’s not physically strong like him, but she’s clever, determined, and willing to risk everything to save him.
He really means it. He’ll really die to keep me alive.
That mutual willingness to sacrifice for each other is what makes their bond so compelling.
Quotes
“Never,” he told it. “You will never hurt her.”
“I care about you more than anything in this world. I’d die for you. Kill for you.”
“Stay away… or I’ll kill him.”
“I could find you anywhere.”
May 8, 2026
**I received an ARC copy of this book and am leaving this honest review voluntarily.**
I ended up enjoying this more than I expected! This is a novella, so it’s a quick read, but I still found myself rooting for Lily and Tripp the whole time.
Lily is a witch working in a government research facility where experiments are being done to create controllable werewolf soldiers. When she meets Tripp, her brother’s best friend, things start to shift in ways she didn’t expect.
I don’t want to say too much because I think it’s better going in with minimal spoilers, but I liked the chemistry between the main characters and was invested in their relationship pretty early on. The island/research facility setting personally wasn’t fully my thing, so I never got completely immersed in the world, but the story still kept my attention throughout. I did wish for a bit more background information, but I know how difficult that can be with a novella. I was very curious to know more about this world.
Even with some darker elements and trigger warnings, this read felt fairly light overall to me for a darker paranormal romance. The emotional side of the story balanced things out well, and I appreciated that it had a satisfying HEA.
I’d recommend this to readers looking for a fast paranormal romance that’s easy to get through between heavier or longer books. This was a solid read, and I look forward to reading more by Victoria Szalay!
I ended up enjoying this more than I expected! This is a novella, so it’s a quick read, but I still found myself rooting for Lily and Tripp the whole time.
Lily is a witch working in a government research facility where experiments are being done to create controllable werewolf soldiers. When she meets Tripp, her brother’s best friend, things start to shift in ways she didn’t expect.
I don’t want to say too much because I think it’s better going in with minimal spoilers, but I liked the chemistry between the main characters and was invested in their relationship pretty early on. The island/research facility setting personally wasn’t fully my thing, so I never got completely immersed in the world, but the story still kept my attention throughout. I did wish for a bit more background information, but I know how difficult that can be with a novella. I was very curious to know more about this world.
Even with some darker elements and trigger warnings, this read felt fairly light overall to me for a darker paranormal romance. The emotional side of the story balanced things out well, and I appreciated that it had a satisfying HEA.
I’d recommend this to readers looking for a fast paranormal romance that’s easy to get through between heavier or longer books. This was a solid read, and I look forward to reading more by Victoria Szalay!
May 9, 2026
Review of _To Curse an Alpha_ by Victoria Szalay
First Impression
I was not expecting to be thrown into an emotionally triggering narrative involving suicidal themes, nor did I anticipate the curveball of the “Death Flower.” My brain short-circuited when I read the line “dead for a few hours” — what a concept. Despite that, the story was a refreshing change from my usual reads, and I genuinely loved both the MMC and FMC.
Premise
_To Curse an Alpha_ follows a weary witch exploited by the government and a male lead who goes to prison for protect his mother, only to be biologically altered into a Lycan.
What Worked / What Didn’t
The story, characters, and tension are excellent. The plot is layered and the chemistry is palpable. My only critique is the abrupt transition between the penultimate and final chapter. The shift felt jarring and would have benefited from a stronger narrative bridge.
Who Would Like It
If you enjoy fantasy romance with darker undertones, this book is for you. With Lycan lore, government conspiracies, and morally grey stakes, it’s well suited to paranormal readers seeking something grittier.
Rating
4.5/5 – The story flows, the plot is compelling, and the tension is gripping. I thoroughly enjoyed this book.
First Impression
I was not expecting to be thrown into an emotionally triggering narrative involving suicidal themes, nor did I anticipate the curveball of the “Death Flower.” My brain short-circuited when I read the line “dead for a few hours” — what a concept. Despite that, the story was a refreshing change from my usual reads, and I genuinely loved both the MMC and FMC.
Premise
_To Curse an Alpha_ follows a weary witch exploited by the government and a male lead who goes to prison for protect his mother, only to be biologically altered into a Lycan.
What Worked / What Didn’t
The story, characters, and tension are excellent. The plot is layered and the chemistry is palpable. My only critique is the abrupt transition between the penultimate and final chapter. The shift felt jarring and would have benefited from a stronger narrative bridge.
Who Would Like It
If you enjoy fantasy romance with darker undertones, this book is for you. With Lycan lore, government conspiracies, and morally grey stakes, it’s well suited to paranormal readers seeking something grittier.
Rating
4.5/5 – The story flows, the plot is compelling, and the tension is gripping. I thoroughly enjoyed this book.
April 17, 2026
All of my stalking of a new release from this author has paid off! Even though it is a novella, there is no shortage of plot or investment in the characters.
Lily is definitely the quiet kid in class you do not think about much, but who you should be most worried about! Her ability to come across as non-threatening really comes in handy to do some pretty cool stuff for those she cares for and against the ones wanting them harmed.
Tripp has carried a torch for Lily for many years, but their reunion is absolutely not a good circumstance. He is clever, intense, and battling a true war within himself. He is a beast, a man, both, or something else entirely?
There are a couple smexy times, but the majority of the book is a slow-burning adventure of good versus evil in a corrupt, magical world. Looking forward to more stories in the great Skadra universe!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Lily is definitely the quiet kid in class you do not think about much, but who you should be most worried about! Her ability to come across as non-threatening really comes in handy to do some pretty cool stuff for those she cares for and against the ones wanting them harmed.
Tripp has carried a torch for Lily for many years, but their reunion is absolutely not a good circumstance. He is clever, intense, and battling a true war within himself. He is a beast, a man, both, or something else entirely?
There are a couple smexy times, but the majority of the book is a slow-burning adventure of good versus evil in a corrupt, magical world. Looking forward to more stories in the great Skadra universe!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
April 27, 2026
Give me the FULL novel to this novella immediately, please 😩🔥 because I am not done with this world!
I absolutely loved this story and honestly just wanted so much more. The concept alone had me hooked—lycans being made, not born (which is such a refreshing twist), and witches being used in that process? Dark, gritty, and completely fascinating. It gave the entire story a much heavier, more dangerous feel than your typical fantasy romance.
This is definitely not your standard “fated mates in a magical forest” kind of read. Lily and Tripp’s story is rooted in something much darker—people being turned against their will, experimented on, stripped of choice… and Tripp being one of those victims 💔 That underlying tension makes their connection hit so much harder.
Huge thank you to Victoria Szalay for creating such a unique and gripping story. You gave us a taste and now I’m officially begging for more 🙌📚
I absolutely loved this story and honestly just wanted so much more. The concept alone had me hooked—lycans being made, not born (which is such a refreshing twist), and witches being used in that process? Dark, gritty, and completely fascinating. It gave the entire story a much heavier, more dangerous feel than your typical fantasy romance.
This is definitely not your standard “fated mates in a magical forest” kind of read. Lily and Tripp’s story is rooted in something much darker—people being turned against their will, experimented on, stripped of choice… and Tripp being one of those victims 💔 That underlying tension makes their connection hit so much harder.
Huge thank you to Victoria Szalay for creating such a unique and gripping story. You gave us a taste and now I’m officially begging for more 🙌📚
May 3, 2026
To Curse an Alpha by Victoria Szalay delivered a compelling blend of paranormal romance, emotional tension, and supernatural intrigue that kept me hooked from start to finish. In this book we follow the story of a young witch named Lily and a young man turned werewolf named Tripp as they navigate their feelings for each in a world where curses, and fate collide. I really enjoyed reading about Lily and Tripp as the chemistry between them built naturally, allowing for tension that felt earned rather than rushed. One of the book’s strongest elements I feel is how Szalay wrote a strong and resilient female lead, instead of a passive protagonist. Overall, To Curse an Alpha was a captivating read that the passion and emotion that I always look for is a paranormal shifter romance!
I received an ARC copy from the author herself. Thank you so much for giving me a chance to read and voluntarily review this novel!
I received an ARC copy from the author herself. Thank you so much for giving me a chance to read and voluntarily review this novel!
April 25, 2026
Lily was born in a world where her kind are taken and used for governmental purposes. She grew up with an older brother and his best friend, Tripp. When Lily learns Trip is at the same facility she is at a new purpose has begun. 313A is the research facility and Dr Simmons is one of two doctors Lily must navigate.
There is action, character development and several fun folks. I enjoyed how the author described Trip and the one within. There was a moment where you didn’t know how the scene was going to play out and it made the story take a turn. What would you do if you learned someone you cared about was being tortured?
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
There is action, character development and several fun folks. I enjoyed how the author described Trip and the one within. There was a moment where you didn’t know how the scene was going to play out and it made the story take a turn. What would you do if you learned someone you cared about was being tortured?
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
April 28, 2026
To Curse an Alpha, follows the story of Lily and Tripp. In this world, witches are born randomly throughout the human population and Lily happens to be one of them. Through the toxic relationship with her mother and her wanting the best for her brother she finds herself at what she describes as a "hellish" research facility and you'll probably find her correct in her assessment. As luck or dread would have it, she's reunited with a former love interest she hasn't seen in five years. He's one of the newest test subjects. The plot is on to free him but he wants to do all he can to protect her. Dive into this world of witches, lycans and the magic-less doctors need for power, you won't regret it.
May 5, 2026
First of all—brother’s best friend trope??? I’m already in!!! And I will say, the spicy scenes were really well done and definitely a highlight for me.
The storyline was interesting, and I especially liked seeing Lily grow into herself and find her own sense of identity and freedom. That part of her journey felt really meaningful.
I am a little curious about how this ties into the Skadra Universe, and I’m hoping future books might connect things a bit more or revisit characters like Tripp and Lily, because I’d love to see more of them.
Overall, this was an enjoyable read with some great moments, even if it didn’t fully stand out for me. I’m definitely interested to see where the series goes next.
The storyline was interesting, and I especially liked seeing Lily grow into herself and find her own sense of identity and freedom. That part of her journey felt really meaningful.
I am a little curious about how this ties into the Skadra Universe, and I’m hoping future books might connect things a bit more or revisit characters like Tripp and Lily, because I’d love to see more of them.
Overall, this was an enjoyable read with some great moments, even if it didn’t fully stand out for me. I’m definitely interested to see where the series goes next.
March 4, 2026
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ stars
What to expect
✨ Multiple POVs
✨ Witches
✨ Lycan turned by scientists
✨ Touch her and ☠️
✨ Secret research island
So happy to be back in the Skadra Universe. To Curse an Alpha is a prequel Novella. Just over 100 pages.
This was such a good book. Victoria knows what’s she doing! And the spicy scenes!! 🥵🔥
I loved our badass FMC Lilly, the scientists didn’t count on the fact that she would burn down the entire island to save our MMC Tripp, a convict turned into a Lycan.
I loved the purple haired pixie Harnix she was a great addition to the book.
I will literally read anything Victoria writes!
Highly recommended this book!!
What to expect
✨ Multiple POVs
✨ Witches
✨ Lycan turned by scientists
✨ Touch her and ☠️
✨ Secret research island
So happy to be back in the Skadra Universe. To Curse an Alpha is a prequel Novella. Just over 100 pages.
This was such a good book. Victoria knows what’s she doing! And the spicy scenes!! 🥵🔥
I loved our badass FMC Lilly, the scientists didn’t count on the fact that she would burn down the entire island to save our MMC Tripp, a convict turned into a Lycan.
I loved the purple haired pixie Harnix she was a great addition to the book.
I will literally read anything Victoria writes!
Highly recommended this book!!
April 15, 2026
This novella was such a quick, easy read, and honestly I flew through it. It may be short, but it definitely leaves the door open for more, and I really hope the author decides to come back to this world.
The FMC and MMC both have so much potential. I found myself wanting more time with them, more development, more moments, because what we did get was really good. Their dynamic pulled me in and kept me invested the whole time.
And let’s talk about the spice because yes, it was absolutely there and did not disappoint.
Overall, this was a fun, engaging read that just left me wishing for more in the best way.
The FMC and MMC both have so much potential. I found myself wanting more time with them, more development, more moments, because what we did get was really good. Their dynamic pulled me in and kept me invested the whole time.
And let’s talk about the spice because yes, it was absolutely there and did not disappoint.
Overall, this was a fun, engaging read that just left me wishing for more in the best way.
May 1, 2026
To Curse An Alpha
✓Fated Mates
✓ Shifter Romance
✓ Spice 🌶 🌶 🌶 🌶
✓ Witches
✓ Spells
A compelling Novella of a woman named Lily who works for the government. Only when her friend from childhood, Tripp, a Lycan shifter appears at the research facility does she devise a plan to get all of them out.
🌟 I liked how the Novella didn't rush through the processes of to face to overcome them. I do wish there was a little more background to how the characters know each other in the beginning.
"This is a ritual, little witchie, not a spell or a potion. No magic of your own required. So keep this away from the magic-less at all costs." Victoria Salazay's book To Curse An Alpha
✓Fated Mates
✓ Shifter Romance
✓ Spice 🌶 🌶 🌶 🌶
✓ Witches
✓ Spells
A compelling Novella of a woman named Lily who works for the government. Only when her friend from childhood, Tripp, a Lycan shifter appears at the research facility does she devise a plan to get all of them out.
🌟 I liked how the Novella didn't rush through the processes of to face to overcome them. I do wish there was a little more background to how the characters know each other in the beginning.
"This is a ritual, little witchie, not a spell or a potion. No magic of your own required. So keep this away from the magic-less at all costs." Victoria Salazay's book To Curse An Alpha
May 1, 2026
I read this book as an ARC reader. I wanted to love this book, the concept itself has a huge potential with a great plot. However I really struggled to finish this book.
The story doesnt explain anything. We have no idea how Tripp became a lycan or how he was deemed the Alpha. We dont know what leads up to the moments of the story. Why the witches and lycans are captives, how humans came to be in charge. There is no development for how Lily and Tripp fell for each other its just instant.
I felt like I was reading fanfiction more than anything else. And I really hate giving negative reviews but unfortunately for this one I felt like I just had to be brutally honest.
The story doesnt explain anything. We have no idea how Tripp became a lycan or how he was deemed the Alpha. We dont know what leads up to the moments of the story. Why the witches and lycans are captives, how humans came to be in charge. There is no development for how Lily and Tripp fell for each other its just instant.
I felt like I was reading fanfiction more than anything else. And I really hate giving negative reviews but unfortunately for this one I felt like I just had to be brutally honest.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 25, 2026
***I was given this as ARC to review by the author.***
This story flowed really well straight from the beginning. This is a novella but I really think this would be a great full out story. There is so much detail put into the backstory and description of characters that I really think a full novel could have been imagined with these characters. I really enjoyed the FMC and MMC and their dynamic. I would continue to like to read about this universe and see what other characters we would learn about. I also hope that the author expands on some of the characters we were introduced to in this novel. The author's writing is well done and easy to follow and I would enjoy reading her work again.
This story flowed really well straight from the beginning. This is a novella but I really think this would be a great full out story. There is so much detail put into the backstory and description of characters that I really think a full novel could have been imagined with these characters. I really enjoyed the FMC and MMC and their dynamic. I would continue to like to read about this universe and see what other characters we would learn about. I also hope that the author expands on some of the characters we were introduced to in this novel. The author's writing is well done and easy to follow and I would enjoy reading her work again.
May 27, 2026
Such a great book!!! Lily is an endentured witch, at a certain age all witches are conscripted into service where their powers are needed. Lily works at a horrible facility that experiments on convicts and criminals. They basically lose their rights when they commit certain crimes. When Lily is sent in to dose a dangerous man they’ve experimented on she realizes she knows him! She’s already disgusted by what’s she’s forced to do but after seeing her brothers friend Tripp she knows she needs to act. The rest of this story is so great. I loved every minute of it and can’t wait to read more!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
April 14, 2026
What can I say but wow. I thoroughly enjoyed this book from start to finish. It hooked me from the very first page and refused to let go, and honestly, I didn’t want it to end. The pacing, the characters, the twists—everything worked together so well that I found myself completely absorbed.
This is one of those rare reads that leaves you wanting more the moment you close the final chapter, and I’ll definitely be seeking out more books by this author. If their other work is anything like this, I’m in for a treat.
This is one of those rare reads that leaves you wanting more the moment you close the final chapter, and I’ll definitely be seeking out more books by this author. If their other work is anything like this, I’m in for a treat.
April 27, 2026
3.5/5 This was my first work to read by Victoria Szalay, but I don't think it will be my last. An interesting mix of myth and science makes for an intriguing story. I think I would have enjoyed this one more as a full-blown novel, because the things I think it lacked--more backstory, more character development, more clarity on the timeline--wouldn't fit in the novella format. Then again, the fact that I wanted more is probably an indicator of a good story.
Many thanks to BookSirens for an ARC in exchange for my honest assessment of this work.
Many thanks to BookSirens for an ARC in exchange for my honest assessment of this work.
May 5, 2026
The only reason I didn't give this book 5 stars is because I feel there wasn't enough background information given about the government or about witches. Other than that, I thoroughly enjoyed the book. I love Lily, Tripp, and the beast. I really hope that Heather finds a mate. I'm hoping there are future books about this island that expand on Lily, Tripp, and Heather. I will admit some aspects of the book made me extremely emotional.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
March 7, 2026
Lily is a powerful mage witch working for the government to keep wolves contained and do research on them. It's a job she hates, but knows she has to continue until she can find away to escape.
Then she finds Tripp, one of the alpha wolves being abused by the lead scientists. Now she knows she will have to free him before she can free herself. She's known him since childhood and been in love him since then!
I loved this book! It doesn't give you a chance to take a deep breath until the end!
Then she finds Tripp, one of the alpha wolves being abused by the lead scientists. Now she knows she will have to free him before she can free herself. She's known him since childhood and been in love him since then!
I loved this book! It doesn't give you a chance to take a deep breath until the end!
April 15, 2026
I Loved this book 📕 didn’t want put it down.
Found this ARC on FB -
When I read it had a lycan x witch, brother’s best friend, reversed sleeping beauty , I had to Sign up and so Thankful to Victoria.
“Say,sweet little Witchie with the Black Eyes..”
Lily - meet her stuck on research island where she wants to escape .witch randomly born to human, mother gave her to the government
Tripp- is lily brother best friend, experimented on to become lycan
I Need more I Loved the ending .
Found this ARC on FB -
When I read it had a lycan x witch, brother’s best friend, reversed sleeping beauty , I had to Sign up and so Thankful to Victoria.
“Say,sweet little Witchie with the Black Eyes..”
Lily - meet her stuck on research island where she wants to escape .witch randomly born to human, mother gave her to the government
Tripp- is lily brother best friend, experimented on to become lycan
I Need more I Loved the ending .
May 12, 2026
Oh, my goodness! I just finished this novella, and I am absolutely blown away. If you are looking for a quick read that packs a major punch, this is it!
This book is a gem for anyone who loves shifters, witchy magic, and paranormal romance. It's an enjoyable, cozy yet exciting read that I'd absolutely recommend to anyone looking for a fun escape!. I will definitely be looking for more from this author.
This book is a gem for anyone who loves shifters, witchy magic, and paranormal romance. It's an enjoyable, cozy yet exciting read that I'd absolutely recommend to anyone looking for a fun escape!. I will definitely be looking for more from this author.
April 3, 2026
Interesting novella with lots of paranormal/shifter/witch things. Despite being thrown into the action of the story, I was pulled into the situation presented. I really liked the magical fantasy things but found the medical manipulation/torture uncomfortable. Engaging novella with a satisfying ending.
April 9, 2026
I received a review readers copy of this story, and this is my honest review. This had so much going for it, characters, world building, chaos but also calm, and a connection built from a shared (but also very different) past. I loved reading this novella and being brought into this world that expands to even more in other books. Wonderful!
April 15, 2026
I love a good novella. It was a quick and satisfying story. The world building happens bit by bit as we learn more about the FMC and MMC. Both are strong characters. There’s magic, shifting, pixies, and violence. With a side of spiciness, what’s not to like? The door is definitely open for additional stories and I’m here for it.
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