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Neon Bricks
Neon Bricks is a why-choose dark urban romantasy set in a reimagined Oz, perfect for fans of Zodiac Academy and the Beast of the Briar series.
Kat is a curvy, plus-size hairstylist from a small town in Oregon—until the night her entire world shatters, and her family is ripped from everything they’ve ever known.
Desperate for answers, Kat and her two best friends unknowingly unlock a portal to another universe, rebuilt on corruption, tyranny, and unstable magic. A dying world filled with flying beasts, shifting power, and men who are far more dangerous than they seem.
Now, Kat is forced down a new kind of yellow brick road—one that demands more than survival.
Because getting her family back means stepping into a world of dark magic, rebellion, and morally grey alliances...where trust is fragile, and power always comes at a cost.
But she’s about to learn that the only way home… is through the storm.
And she may be the key to saving everything.
This is a story where the Lion, the Scarecrow, and the Tin Man were never just companions…and where the real magic begins when Kat becomes the key to everything they’ve lost.
Kat is a curvy, plus-size hairstylist from a small town in Oregon—until the night her entire world shatters, and her family is ripped from everything they’ve ever known.
Desperate for answers, Kat and her two best friends unknowingly unlock a portal to another universe, rebuilt on corruption, tyranny, and unstable magic. A dying world filled with flying beasts, shifting power, and men who are far more dangerous than they seem.
Now, Kat is forced down a new kind of yellow brick road—one that demands more than survival.
Because getting her family back means stepping into a world of dark magic, rebellion, and morally grey alliances...where trust is fragile, and power always comes at a cost.
But she’s about to learn that the only way home… is through the storm.
And she may be the key to saving everything.
This is a story where the Lion, the Scarecrow, and the Tin Man were never just companions…and where the real magic begins when Kat becomes the key to everything they’ve lost.
732 pages, Kindle Edition
Published June 20, 2026
About the author
El Wren
1 book22 followersEl has called the Treasure Valley home since 2013, and after more than a decade of falling in love with everything from the Boise River to the surrounding mountain peaks, she knows her roots are meant to stay here.
She lives a quiet, beautifully full life with her husband of 16 years, their two incredible children—who remind her daily what pure happiness looks like when it’s reflected back at you—their 11-year-old chiweenie, Sadie, and their 7-year-old cat, Tonks.
She thrives on rainy days under a sunroof, believes 72 degrees should be the standard, and considers pumpkin an essential food group.
She’s drawn to emotionally complex characters—the kind that break you apart before carefully putting you back together again. And if she could only watch one thing for the rest of her life, it would be the extended editions of The Lord of the Rings, no hesitation—curled up with a Legolas pillow, a Gimli blanket, a bucket of movie theater popcorn, and an IV of Diet Dr Pepper.
She lives a quiet, beautifully full life with her husband of 16 years, their two incredible children—who remind her daily what pure happiness looks like when it’s reflected back at you—their 11-year-old chiweenie, Sadie, and their 7-year-old cat, Tonks.
She thrives on rainy days under a sunroof, believes 72 degrees should be the standard, and considers pumpkin an essential food group.
She’s drawn to emotionally complex characters—the kind that break you apart before carefully putting you back together again. And if she could only watch one thing for the rest of her life, it would be the extended editions of The Lord of the Rings, no hesitation—curled up with a Legolas pillow, a Gimli blanket, a bucket of movie theater popcorn, and an IV of Diet Dr Pepper.
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Displaying 1 - 26 of 26 reviews
May 30, 2026
ARC REVIEW💛💛
Just finished Neon Bricks and WOW.
The perfect balance of plot and spice — emotional damage one minute, kicking your feet the next. It’ll rip your heart out, stitch it back together, and reward you with a side of orgasms along the way.
And that ending?? The absolute BIGGEST cliffhanger. I need the next book immediately because there is no way I’m supposed to function after that.
Team Hughes forever… but honestly, why choose?
Just finished Neon Bricks and WOW.
The perfect balance of plot and spice — emotional damage one minute, kicking your feet the next. It’ll rip your heart out, stitch it back together, and reward you with a side of orgasms along the way.
And that ending?? The absolute BIGGEST cliffhanger. I need the next book immediately because there is no way I’m supposed to function after that.
Team Hughes forever… but honestly, why choose?
May 31, 2026
First time Arc reader here:
Where do I begin?
I was hooked in the first few chapters, I don’t want to spoil too much, but I may have cried because of one certain chapter towards the beginning of the book. It gives a heartbreaking back story and during the present when things build and then explode. Tears, nothing but tears.
The story flowed beautifully without being to wordy, I could actually visualize what was being described; and to me that is really special and an incredible talent.
I love how it gave a childhood favorite a new look, paying homage without outright copying the storyline and give it its own twist and turns.
That ending though!?!? El??! Really? Right when I thought everything was going to be hunky dory and everything was right in the world. BAM! And then cliffhanger. Now I’m itching for more, I need the rest of the story so I can rest easy…but until then, I will just wait not to patiently.
And before I end this review, I do want to put out there that I read pretty…spicy, questionable, morally grey and dubious books; and I absolutely loved this book, it was a bit different from what I normally read and I was still entertained. Not once did I skim the page just to get to a spicy part.
If I loved this book, so will you. I cannot wait to have my friends read it and to actually buy the physical copy.
Where do I begin?
I was hooked in the first few chapters, I don’t want to spoil too much, but I may have cried because of one certain chapter towards the beginning of the book. It gives a heartbreaking back story and during the present when things build and then explode. Tears, nothing but tears.
The story flowed beautifully without being to wordy, I could actually visualize what was being described; and to me that is really special and an incredible talent.
I love how it gave a childhood favorite a new look, paying homage without outright copying the storyline and give it its own twist and turns.
That ending though!?!? El??! Really? Right when I thought everything was going to be hunky dory and everything was right in the world. BAM! And then cliffhanger. Now I’m itching for more, I need the rest of the story so I can rest easy…but until then, I will just wait not to patiently.
And before I end this review, I do want to put out there that I read pretty…spicy, questionable, morally grey and dubious books; and I absolutely loved this book, it was a bit different from what I normally read and I was still entertained. Not once did I skim the page just to get to a spicy part.
If I loved this book, so will you. I cannot wait to have my friends read it and to actually buy the physical copy.
June 18, 2026
Wow wow wow.
Love the symbolism throughout the book. Also, the way El Wren ties in the characters to Wizard of Oz *chefs kiss *
What a roller coaster of emotions throughout. I was completely engrossed. Why do these authors wrench your heart at the last 100 pages!!! An unspoken rule of thumb?
Either way, I need book two like yesterday. I need to know what happens to Kat after that ending!! I need to see a redemption arc from a certain someone. I need to see another person embrace everything about themselves and what they have to offer. I need to see that hunky man turn macho/hero.
Love the symbolism throughout the book. Also, the way El Wren ties in the characters to Wizard of Oz *chefs kiss *
What a roller coaster of emotions throughout. I was completely engrossed. Why do these authors wrench your heart at the last 100 pages!!! An unspoken rule of thumb?
Either way, I need book two like yesterday. I need to know what happens to Kat after that ending!! I need to see a redemption arc from a certain someone. I need to see another person embrace everything about themselves and what they have to offer. I need to see that hunky man turn macho/hero.
June 20, 2026
Thank you to the author for this ARC read I absolutely loved it. I love the re-imagination of this story the banter was so good. The fmc was a kickass girl who does what she wants. There was a part in the book that had me tearing up. I’m definitely going to be recommending this book to all the fantasy book readers out there!
June 15, 2026
4.5 stars
Favorite quote: “Plus size woman deserve to take up as much space in the stories we escape to.”
Neon bricks is a hefty, wild ride. Much like our FMC Kat who is the perfect blend of vulnerable and badass. It is a breath of fresh air to see an actual human with flaws—a single mom just trying to survive whose world got LITERALLY ripped from her. The side characters were all unique and wonderful. Their voices, their actions, their motivations. You know an author is doing it well when you can tell whose POV you are in without looking at the chapter header. El did a fantastic job. (FYI - if I don’t get more Kane in the next book, I will riot).
El is the Queen of internality and description. Her writing will suck you in and make you feel like are standing right next to all her characters.
As for the story, when I heard Wizard of Oz retelling, I was skeptical. Mostly because I HATED the original film (I know, I know. Don’t come AT me bro, I’m pregnant and feral). However, this story is uniquely its own world with little “hat-tips” to wizard of Oz and wicked lovers.
Why I didn’t give the full five star but was pretty damn close: I did have some bigger questions about the actions of the items retrieved for the “overall goal” in the story that were left unresolved by the end. I am the type of reader that wants the “why” behind side quests and it was not as well defined/explained than I would have liked.
Overall, great find and ARC read. I will definitely be looking out for book 2!
Favorite quote: “Plus size woman deserve to take up as much space in the stories we escape to.”
Neon bricks is a hefty, wild ride. Much like our FMC Kat who is the perfect blend of vulnerable and badass. It is a breath of fresh air to see an actual human with flaws—a single mom just trying to survive whose world got LITERALLY ripped from her. The side characters were all unique and wonderful. Their voices, their actions, their motivations. You know an author is doing it well when you can tell whose POV you are in without looking at the chapter header. El did a fantastic job. (FYI - if I don’t get more Kane in the next book, I will riot).
El is the Queen of internality and description. Her writing will suck you in and make you feel like are standing right next to all her characters.
As for the story, when I heard Wizard of Oz retelling, I was skeptical. Mostly because I HATED the original film (I know, I know. Don’t come AT me bro, I’m pregnant and feral). However, this story is uniquely its own world with little “hat-tips” to wizard of Oz and wicked lovers.
Why I didn’t give the full five star but was pretty damn close: I did have some bigger questions about the actions of the items retrieved for the “overall goal” in the story that were left unresolved by the end. I am the type of reader that wants the “why” behind side quests and it was not as well defined/explained than I would have liked.
Overall, great find and ARC read. I will definitely be looking out for book 2!
June 18, 2026
Really my rating is 4.5 but Goodreads hasn’t gotten with the trend of half stars lol
Neon Bricks is not so much a Wizard of Oz retelling but more of an Oz inspired urban Romantasy, rife with political intrigue, why-choose undertones, found family, feminine rage, and more. The world building feels effortless allowing you to get caught up in the plot from the start.
I love the subtle nods to Oz we’re all familiar with, artfully woven throughout the story, and the immaculate pop culture references were top-tier. The characters have depth and flaws that are not only believable but also relatable; their relationships forming, growing, and breaking organically. The emotional damage this book inflicted at some points was unexpected and powerful, the action that moved the story forward ignited my adrenaline, keeping me on the edge of my seat.
Call me petty if you want, I withheld the last half a star in protest at the cliffhanger ending that has me begging for book two immediately!
Neon Bricks is not so much a Wizard of Oz retelling but more of an Oz inspired urban Romantasy, rife with political intrigue, why-choose undertones, found family, feminine rage, and more. The world building feels effortless allowing you to get caught up in the plot from the start.
I love the subtle nods to Oz we’re all familiar with, artfully woven throughout the story, and the immaculate pop culture references were top-tier. The characters have depth and flaws that are not only believable but also relatable; their relationships forming, growing, and breaking organically. The emotional damage this book inflicted at some points was unexpected and powerful, the action that moved the story forward ignited my adrenaline, keeping me on the edge of my seat.
Call me petty if you want, I withheld the last half a star in protest at the cliffhanger ending that has me begging for book two immediately!
June 20, 2026
This was actually my first ARC read, and I’m so glad it was Neon Bricks. I gave it four stars because it didn’t hook me right away, and I felt like I had to push through the first couple chapters. BUT once it grabbed me, I was really sucked in. I love the reimagining of OZ. There was a good balance of plot and spice. The spice was definitely spicing, but it didn’t take anything away from the main plot, which I love. I’m a huge fan of why choose romances, but if I did have to choose, I’d be team Hughes.
I really love how El Wren developed Kat’s character. I felt like I really understood her from the beginning. I love that Kat is a plus size girlie. You don’t see that a lot in Romantasy, and it’s refreshing.
The cliffhanger is insane. If you’re not a patient person, I would wait until book two comes out, because I am dying!!!! This should be on everyone’s TBR.
I really love how El Wren developed Kat’s character. I felt like I really understood her from the beginning. I love that Kat is a plus size girlie. You don’t see that a lot in Romantasy, and it’s refreshing.
The cliffhanger is insane. If you’re not a patient person, I would wait until book two comes out, because I am dying!!!! This should be on everyone’s TBR.
Review of advance copy received from Author
When I tell you I’ve been waiting for this book to come out for well over a year, I kid you not. I don’t remember exactly what it was that Wren had posted but it drew me in wicked fast. Then the posts of her character art, the blips of the plot, and the pièce de résistance was the very first paragraph:
Wren uses a flair of poetry during intense moments, and I’m living for it. I’ve never seen it before, I don’t think, and hope she carries it on into her future novels. Her prose really had a chokehold on me, the flair, the poetry, her use of words all coalesced into something so beautiful and perfect.
The weight in which the slow burn and tension hangs between the characters had me yearning for more, but also wanting to suffer the heat. There was fantastic spice but it did not take over the plot which I found refreshing. Did the characters think about sex often? Yes, but it was more like an appreciation for what that character's body could give.
Wren’s mentions on body image really hit home for me, and maybe I’m a big-back baby-bitch but as someone who has struggled more days than I'd like to admit with looking in the mirror and seeing something beautiful looking back, I felt Every.Fucking.Word.
And the way these men: Hughes, Kane, and Duncan admire her for all that she is and more than just her body, really was a solid note of greatness. Because they didn’t say, “Oh, well, even if you jiggle you’re still hot,” no, they said, “Now, that’s a fine ass I’d like to eat on.” (Not, those EXACT words, but you get it.)
The distress colored throughout Kat’s journey to find her mother and child wrecked me. Kat is destroyed, for good reason. She’s lost her daughter and mother, but through the grief she finds: Happiness, love, friendship, and moments that will change her life forever (some of them so gut wrenching I wanted to throw my phone and never pick it up again.).
The multiple POV’s truly add to the overall plot and are done so well. It gives you a piece of the puzzle from various characters, helping to keep track of, Teagan, Kat’s mother and Kat’s daughter, as well as the internal struggles of Hughes, Duncan, and Kane—and of course, Kat’s terrors, insecurities, and dilemmas. Each character is so well rounded, their thoughts are relatable, their passions are hard to miss, and each stands out in a way I don't think I’m likely to forget.
Now, into the meat:
Kat is a woman with “thick thighs, and beautiful eyes”—a hair dresser who has a flair for all that is sweet and kind . . . and a bit of a pushover or maybe she’s just too nice. Her dreams are coming true, she’s got her daughter, a wonderful and present mother, and, finally, her salon is open. Nothing can go wrong with her family and best friends, Hughes and Jordan, at her side.
Hughes and Jordan are brothers but couldn’t be more worlds apart. While Jordan is full of flair, dirty jokes, and has a penchant for bringing a smile—Hughes is decidedly not. Hughes fights himself, and a dark voice, Sark, that claws at his mind, reminding Hughes that he will never be good enough. While Hughes holds a torch for Kat, he refuses to ever let her fall into his demons. Even if he would rather be buried between her thighs all hours of the day, and making pancakes in their skivvies every morning, than watching from the side lines.
It’s not until a wicked woman prances into Kat’s salon and shuts it down for tedious, minimal—if even-there—violations, that everything goes cockeyed. Because shortly after, a terrible wind ravages her apartment in front of Hughes’s eyes, snatching up Kat’s daughter, Bree, and her mother, Teagan. Hughes tries to fight the tornado winds to save Kat’s family but doesn’t make it in time before soldiers step out from a portal, and grabs them up, pulling them through the winds which shows a gleaming, emerald city before it closes forever, leaving nothing but a wrecked apartment.
Kat is devastated, as we all would be. Her nerves, and anger, and hopelessness are all right there on the page to cry over, to understand. I found myself dwelling with Kat because it is my literal nightmare to lose my children. But Kat picks herself up and she’s determined to find a way and she does . . . accidentally, and sucks herself, Hughes, and Jordan straight into a portal and into a sunflower field.
In an entirely new world that is too similar to Earth Kat must find her way with nary a map or brochure. She’s hopeless, until The Hollow finds himself in her presence drawn to her like a moth to a flame that she begins her journey: Towards her daughter, and strangely enough—self discovery.
You will not regret picking up this book and taking a dive into an Oz retelling so fantastic you'll find yourself 300 pages deep and not realize that the world has continued turning without you. The ups and downs and all arounds will leave you spinning and teetering off a cliffhanger that may just devastate you.
I just have to say: Bravo El, this was truly an amazing read and I’m so glad I didn’t lose you on TikTok.
“Emerald Inc. stands as the tallest spine of glass and steel in Jade, a monument to my vision. From its height, the city bends itself into perspective. Floor-to-ceiling glass frames the decline of our dual suns, their light bleeding over a rainbow horizon like the last breath of a dying god.”
Wren uses a flair of poetry during intense moments, and I’m living for it. I’ve never seen it before, I don’t think, and hope she carries it on into her future novels. Her prose really had a chokehold on me, the flair, the poetry, her use of words all coalesced into something so beautiful and perfect.
The weight in which the slow burn and tension hangs between the characters had me yearning for more, but also wanting to suffer the heat. There was fantastic spice but it did not take over the plot which I found refreshing. Did the characters think about sex often? Yes, but it was more like an appreciation for what that character's body could give.
Wren’s mentions on body image really hit home for me, and maybe I’m a big-back baby-bitch but as someone who has struggled more days than I'd like to admit with looking in the mirror and seeing something beautiful looking back, I felt Every.Fucking.Word.
“My arms fall to my sides, my hand lifting to my stomach, that within seconds, feels hollowed out.
Is this rejection?
I’ve definitely felt rejection before. I mean . . . look at me. I am 250 pounds of pure woman, who gravity has apparently abandoned for better odds.”
And the way these men: Hughes, Kane, and Duncan admire her for all that she is and more than just her body, really was a solid note of greatness. Because they didn’t say, “Oh, well, even if you jiggle you’re still hot,” no, they said, “Now, that’s a fine ass I’d like to eat on.” (Not, those EXACT words, but you get it.)
The distress colored throughout Kat’s journey to find her mother and child wrecked me. Kat is destroyed, for good reason. She’s lost her daughter and mother, but through the grief she finds: Happiness, love, friendship, and moments that will change her life forever (some of them so gut wrenching I wanted to throw my phone and never pick it up again.).
The multiple POV’s truly add to the overall plot and are done so well. It gives you a piece of the puzzle from various characters, helping to keep track of, Teagan, Kat’s mother and Kat’s daughter, as well as the internal struggles of Hughes, Duncan, and Kane—and of course, Kat’s terrors, insecurities, and dilemmas. Each character is so well rounded, their thoughts are relatable, their passions are hard to miss, and each stands out in a way I don't think I’m likely to forget.
Now, into the meat:
Kat is a woman with “thick thighs, and beautiful eyes”—a hair dresser who has a flair for all that is sweet and kind . . . and a bit of a pushover or maybe she’s just too nice. Her dreams are coming true, she’s got her daughter, a wonderful and present mother, and, finally, her salon is open. Nothing can go wrong with her family and best friends, Hughes and Jordan, at her side.
Hughes and Jordan are brothers but couldn’t be more worlds apart. While Jordan is full of flair, dirty jokes, and has a penchant for bringing a smile—Hughes is decidedly not. Hughes fights himself, and a dark voice, Sark, that claws at his mind, reminding Hughes that he will never be good enough. While Hughes holds a torch for Kat, he refuses to ever let her fall into his demons. Even if he would rather be buried between her thighs all hours of the day, and making pancakes in their skivvies every morning, than watching from the side lines.
It’s not until a wicked woman prances into Kat’s salon and shuts it down for tedious, minimal—if even-there—violations, that everything goes cockeyed. Because shortly after, a terrible wind ravages her apartment in front of Hughes’s eyes, snatching up Kat’s daughter, Bree, and her mother, Teagan. Hughes tries to fight the tornado winds to save Kat’s family but doesn’t make it in time before soldiers step out from a portal, and grabs them up, pulling them through the winds which shows a gleaming, emerald city before it closes forever, leaving nothing but a wrecked apartment.
Kat is devastated, as we all would be. Her nerves, and anger, and hopelessness are all right there on the page to cry over, to understand. I found myself dwelling with Kat because it is my literal nightmare to lose my children. But Kat picks herself up and she’s determined to find a way and she does . . . accidentally, and sucks herself, Hughes, and Jordan straight into a portal and into a sunflower field.
In an entirely new world that is too similar to Earth Kat must find her way with nary a map or brochure. She’s hopeless, until The Hollow finds himself in her presence drawn to her like a moth to a flame that she begins her journey: Towards her daughter, and strangely enough—self discovery.
You will not regret picking up this book and taking a dive into an Oz retelling so fantastic you'll find yourself 300 pages deep and not realize that the world has continued turning without you. The ups and downs and all arounds will leave you spinning and teetering off a cliffhanger that may just devastate you.
I just have to say: Bravo El, this was truly an amazing read and I’m so glad I didn’t lose you on TikTok.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I received this ARC for an honest review and let me tell you I have sat with my thoughts for the last 24 hours unpacking everything that happened in this absolutely beautiful book!
This is a why choose multiple pov oz retelling that uses imagery and symbolism in the best ways possible every Tin Man, Scarecrow, and Lion reference is spot on. The description and detail to describe the world of Ozanthia in itself is spectacular!
“And I want a heart, witchling. But here I am—still running on spite, whiskey, and the faint hope you’ll stop arguing with me for five covendamn minutes.”
Also one special thing Wren did in this novel that stands out to me in so many ways is her respect and attention of details when it comes to mental health. There are several references to different types of conditions in this novel. As a mother who deals with a few of these conditions on a regular basis that really meant something to me to see it incorporated into something like this beautiful novel!
For starters Kat is officially one of my all time favorite FMCs it is such a fresh of breath air to have a character that is completely relatable! She is thick, beautiful and fierce and clearly full of fire!🔥 also finally a character who’s not in her 20s, this woman is in her 30s tackling the world as a single mother doing her best to provide and be the best mother she can possible be despite all the struggles she been through in life and she does it so unbelievably well!!
This is a why choose so of course we have multiple male interest and let me tell you El Wren did not disappoint with any of them they are all so very different in there own ways and they are all protective of her and her family. But I would have to say that Mr. Tin Man himself is entirely my favorite of them all! But the dedication of them all is unmatched!
“The Lion will teach her fear is not weakness. The Tin Man will return what grief hollowed out. And the mind bound in shadows…” Her gaze sharpens slightly. “Will remind her who she was before the storm stole her name.”
Every second of this book had my toes curled and my head spinning! I spent so much time curled up in my blanket laughing my butt off! The sarcasm and banter is undeniable! Wren takes you on a roller coaster ride of emotions and you will feel every bit of it with these characters! And when you least expect it the last 15% of this book will wreck your freaking world!! It will take unexpected turns and your mind will be blown just know she will rip your heart out stomp on it and then put it back together to only blindside you one more last time!!
The next two books can’t come out fast enough!!
This is a why choose multiple pov oz retelling that uses imagery and symbolism in the best ways possible every Tin Man, Scarecrow, and Lion reference is spot on. The description and detail to describe the world of Ozanthia in itself is spectacular!
“And I want a heart, witchling. But here I am—still running on spite, whiskey, and the faint hope you’ll stop arguing with me for five covendamn minutes.”
Also one special thing Wren did in this novel that stands out to me in so many ways is her respect and attention of details when it comes to mental health. There are several references to different types of conditions in this novel. As a mother who deals with a few of these conditions on a regular basis that really meant something to me to see it incorporated into something like this beautiful novel!
For starters Kat is officially one of my all time favorite FMCs it is such a fresh of breath air to have a character that is completely relatable! She is thick, beautiful and fierce and clearly full of fire!🔥 also finally a character who’s not in her 20s, this woman is in her 30s tackling the world as a single mother doing her best to provide and be the best mother she can possible be despite all the struggles she been through in life and she does it so unbelievably well!!
This is a why choose so of course we have multiple male interest and let me tell you El Wren did not disappoint with any of them they are all so very different in there own ways and they are all protective of her and her family. But I would have to say that Mr. Tin Man himself is entirely my favorite of them all! But the dedication of them all is unmatched!
“The Lion will teach her fear is not weakness. The Tin Man will return what grief hollowed out. And the mind bound in shadows…” Her gaze sharpens slightly. “Will remind her who she was before the storm stole her name.”
Every second of this book had my toes curled and my head spinning! I spent so much time curled up in my blanket laughing my butt off! The sarcasm and banter is undeniable! Wren takes you on a roller coaster ride of emotions and you will feel every bit of it with these characters! And when you least expect it the last 15% of this book will wreck your freaking world!! It will take unexpected turns and your mind will be blown just know she will rip your heart out stomp on it and then put it back together to only blindside you one more last time!!
The next two books can’t come out fast enough!!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Wow…just wow!!! This is my first ARC read and man I loved being apart of this!!
Kat is a plus sized, single mom that is sucked into the world we all know and love, Oz! She is there to save her mom and daughter that were kidnapped one night and she is learning to navigate through this world while simultaneously trying to get her family and go back home! Kat is known to be plus sized but I love the way El wrote her. She wasn’t defined by just her size she was a bad ass!
The men for this book are beautiful and all different levels of flags! They all three each have a completely different personality to represent the Scarecrow, the Tin Man and the Lion and OMGGGG she does it in the most amazing and beautiful way!!
The book has an amazing plot, some spice, yearning, a bad ass FMC and some amazing looking MMCs to read about. El really knew what she wanted to write and did it! She gave us a story you will not want to miss, I promise you that! I would like to leave some of my favorite quotes for you to just understand!!
"You have a presence about you. I don't know who—or what-you are, Little Witch, but what I do know is you're more than a five-foot-something with thick thighs and pretty eyes."
“Because I'm hopelessly obsessed and shamelessly in love with you.”
“And then I scream, loud enough to make even the stars confess their secrets.”
“Raine is my sun-dragging me in with her gravity, blinding me, burning me alive and I'd still stand there smiling while she did it.”
“you're my North Star. The brightest light at the end of a long, dark corridor. You're my guiding star, Kathryn Conley.
And I'll follow you... through the stars, through the vast darkness, through anything."
Kat is a plus sized, single mom that is sucked into the world we all know and love, Oz! She is there to save her mom and daughter that were kidnapped one night and she is learning to navigate through this world while simultaneously trying to get her family and go back home! Kat is known to be plus sized but I love the way El wrote her. She wasn’t defined by just her size she was a bad ass!
The men for this book are beautiful and all different levels of flags! They all three each have a completely different personality to represent the Scarecrow, the Tin Man and the Lion and OMGGGG she does it in the most amazing and beautiful way!!
The book has an amazing plot, some spice, yearning, a bad ass FMC and some amazing looking MMCs to read about. El really knew what she wanted to write and did it! She gave us a story you will not want to miss, I promise you that! I would like to leave some of my favorite quotes for you to just understand!!
"You have a presence about you. I don't know who—or what-you are, Little Witch, but what I do know is you're more than a five-foot-something with thick thighs and pretty eyes."
“Because I'm hopelessly obsessed and shamelessly in love with you.”
“And then I scream, loud enough to make even the stars confess their secrets.”
“Raine is my sun-dragging me in with her gravity, blinding me, burning me alive and I'd still stand there smiling while she did it.”
“you're my North Star. The brightest light at the end of a long, dark corridor. You're my guiding star, Kathryn Conley.
And I'll follow you... through the stars, through the vast darkness, through anything."
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 20, 2026
First of all, I want to thank El Wren and her team for accepting me to be on the ARC team for this book! It was a debut novel and I couldn’t even tell, the writing was so fun, and I was obsessed! Anyways, these opinions are all my own despite the gifted ARC copy.
Let’s get into the review:
This book is a dark urban fantasy reimagining of the Wizard of Oz. It’s follows our main character Katherine aka Kat navigating a life that has suddenly turned upside down after getting thrown into a portal and transported to a new world. This book beautifully balances heavier topics with action, banter that will make you blush and kick your feet, and an unstoppable found family. I was hooked from the very first page because I needed to know what was going to happen next. Oh, did I mention this is Why choose? And all her boyfriends are delicious and have different flirty banter with her 😏 Kat was also a plus size FMC, and she was so easy to relate to. She had so much confidence but she also had her moments, and she felt so relatable and human. Ugh! My Shayla! 😭❤️
Anyways, I would very much recommend this book! I was obsessed and I couldn’t put it down.
Let’s get into the review:
This book is a dark urban fantasy reimagining of the Wizard of Oz. It’s follows our main character Katherine aka Kat navigating a life that has suddenly turned upside down after getting thrown into a portal and transported to a new world. This book beautifully balances heavier topics with action, banter that will make you blush and kick your feet, and an unstoppable found family. I was hooked from the very first page because I needed to know what was going to happen next. Oh, did I mention this is Why choose? And all her boyfriends are delicious and have different flirty banter with her 😏 Kat was also a plus size FMC, and she was so easy to relate to. She had so much confidence but she also had her moments, and she felt so relatable and human. Ugh! My Shayla! 😭❤️
Anyways, I would very much recommend this book! I was obsessed and I couldn’t put it down.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Neon Bricks by took everything I loved about Oz and twisted it into something fresh, chaotic, and completely addictive.
I felt like I'd been sucked through a portal and dropped into another world because reality genuinely ceased to exist while I was reading this.
The nods to the 90s and 2000s were so nostalgic, her writing and the banter between characters kept me giggling and kicking my feet the entire time.
And Kat?? That girl is a FORCE. Smart, capable, and completely badass. Watching her navigate this world while trying not to lose her mind was half the fun. The chemistry between her and her men was delicious and I was eating up every single interaction.
But what really got me was how this book balanced all the fun with genuinely high stakes. The action had me flying through the pages because I needed to know what happened next.
And then the ending.
EXCUSE ME???
I was not prepared for that level of emotional damage. Now I'm sitting here staring at the wall and demanding book two immediately.
I felt like I'd been sucked through a portal and dropped into another world because reality genuinely ceased to exist while I was reading this.
The nods to the 90s and 2000s were so nostalgic, her writing and the banter between characters kept me giggling and kicking my feet the entire time.
And Kat?? That girl is a FORCE. Smart, capable, and completely badass. Watching her navigate this world while trying not to lose her mind was half the fun. The chemistry between her and her men was delicious and I was eating up every single interaction.
But what really got me was how this book balanced all the fun with genuinely high stakes. The action had me flying through the pages because I needed to know what happened next.
And then the ending.
EXCUSE ME???
I was not prepared for that level of emotional damage. Now I'm sitting here staring at the wall and demanding book two immediately.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Wow! What do I even say?! This book is absolutely amazing and had me in all the feels!
If you are a fan of dark, addictive fantasy, you need to add this to your TBR immediately. It is a brilliant, twisted re-imagination of The Wizard of Oz that sucks you right through a portal and doesn't let you go.
Here is why you will fall completely in love with it:
The Perfect Balance: It strikes an incredible balance between high-stakes action, delicious banter, and pure spice. It will have you kicking your feet one minute and dealing with absolute emotional damage the next.
A Powerhouse FMC: Kat is a force to be reckoned with. She is smart, capable, completely badass, and does what she wants while trying to navigate this chaotic world.
The Chemistry: The dynamic and chemistry between Kat and her men is incredible.
And that ending?! The absolute BIGGEST cliffhanger. I am entirely unprepared for this level of emotional damage and need book two like now!
Thank you to the author for the ARC read! I'm definitely going to be recommending this!
If you are a fan of dark, addictive fantasy, you need to add this to your TBR immediately. It is a brilliant, twisted re-imagination of The Wizard of Oz that sucks you right through a portal and doesn't let you go.
Here is why you will fall completely in love with it:
The Perfect Balance: It strikes an incredible balance between high-stakes action, delicious banter, and pure spice. It will have you kicking your feet one minute and dealing with absolute emotional damage the next.
A Powerhouse FMC: Kat is a force to be reckoned with. She is smart, capable, completely badass, and does what she wants while trying to navigate this chaotic world.
The Chemistry: The dynamic and chemistry between Kat and her men is incredible.
And that ending?! The absolute BIGGEST cliffhanger. I am entirely unprepared for this level of emotional damage and need book two like now!
Thank you to the author for the ARC read! I'm definitely going to be recommending this!
Review of advance copy received from Author
If I could rate this 100 stars I would. This book had everything a fantasy/romance fan dreams of! A unique, modern re-telling of the wizard of Oz and a journey of self-discovery.
In this adaptation the role of Dorothy is played by Kat. I adoredthat the FMC being over 30 and being plus-sized. Us thick ladies get some bad ass representation.
Also along the way she of course meets the Scarecrow, the Tinman, and the Cowardly Lion. Although in this telling they are 3 men battling both inner and ospectacular. The why choose, romantic aspect with the men was also a nice touch. The descriptions and the limited 🌶🌶 were enough to make me drool. Sign me up for a portal to Oz!
The imagery was vivid and took my breath away. I imagined myself right there in the story kicking ass and taking names on the yellow brick road.
I also loved the multi-POV from the main characters. I feel honored to have information that the heroine doesn't know yet, and it makes me kick my feet knowing that book 2 is going to blow us out of the water. I mean after that cliff toss that sent me flying over the rainbow it has to be something spectacular.
In this adaptation the role of Dorothy is played by Kat. I adoredthat the FMC being over 30 and being plus-sized. Us thick ladies get some bad ass representation.
Also along the way she of course meets the Scarecrow, the Tinman, and the Cowardly Lion. Although in this telling they are 3 men battling both inner and ospectacular. The why choose, romantic aspect with the men was also a nice touch. The descriptions and the limited 🌶🌶 were enough to make me drool. Sign me up for a portal to Oz!
The imagery was vivid and took my breath away. I imagined myself right there in the story kicking ass and taking names on the yellow brick road.
I also loved the multi-POV from the main characters. I feel honored to have information that the heroine doesn't know yet, and it makes me kick my feet knowing that book 2 is going to blow us out of the water. I mean after that cliff toss that sent me flying over the rainbow it has to be something spectacular.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Neon Bricks is a creative and engaging Oz-inspired urban romantasy that completely pulled me in from the start. I was intrigued by the premise alone, but the execution exceeded my expectations. The world is packed with clever Oz references, pop culture nods, and Easter eggs that made the reading experience even more fun.
While this is definitely a romantasy with plenty of world-building and relationship development, the standout for me was Kat. El Wren does an incredible job writing a plus-size FMC whose struggles, strengths, insecurities, and resilience feel authentic. Kat isn't just navigating a magical world in crisis; she's also balancing the realities of being a mother, daughter, friend, and survivor. Her character felt layered and refreshingly human.
The romance elements are well-balanced with the larger story, and each of the love interests brings something different to the table. They're messy, damaged, complicated, and dealing with their own battles, which made the relationships feel more compelling.
What I appreciated most was the balance. One chapter had me laughing or kicking my feet, while the next hit with genuine emotional weight. The story delivers both plot and spice without sacrificing either.
And that ending? Absolutely cruel in the best possible way. I immediately needed book two.
If you enjoy Oz retellings, why choose romance, found family, morally gray characters, and fantasy worlds with high stakes and heart, Neon Bricks is worth adding to your TBR.
While this is definitely a romantasy with plenty of world-building and relationship development, the standout for me was Kat. El Wren does an incredible job writing a plus-size FMC whose struggles, strengths, insecurities, and resilience feel authentic. Kat isn't just navigating a magical world in crisis; she's also balancing the realities of being a mother, daughter, friend, and survivor. Her character felt layered and refreshingly human.
The romance elements are well-balanced with the larger story, and each of the love interests brings something different to the table. They're messy, damaged, complicated, and dealing with their own battles, which made the relationships feel more compelling.
What I appreciated most was the balance. One chapter had me laughing or kicking my feet, while the next hit with genuine emotional weight. The story delivers both plot and spice without sacrificing either.
And that ending? Absolutely cruel in the best possible way. I immediately needed book two.
If you enjoy Oz retellings, why choose romance, found family, morally gray characters, and fantasy worlds with high stakes and heart, Neon Bricks is worth adding to your TBR.
Review of advance copy received from Author
⭐⭐⭐⭐ / 5
"The real magic begins when Kat becomes the key to everything they’ve lost." 😭🚨
If you told me I’d be completely obsessed with a dark, why-choose reimagining of The Wizard of Oz, I would have told you you're crazy. But Neon Bricks completely blew me away! Think Zodiac Academy meets Beast of the Briar, but with a plus-size, badass hairstylist heroine and a world built on unstable magic and total corruption.
I swallowed this book whole. The tension? Incredible. The world-building? Vivid and gritty. If you love dark fantasy, high stakes, and complex relationships where the FMC is the actual key to saving everything, drop what you are doing and read this immediately you wont be disappointed.
#NeonBricks #BookTok #DarkRomantasy #WhyChoose #ReverseHaremBooks #TwistedOz #BookRecommendations
"The real magic begins when Kat becomes the key to everything they’ve lost." 😭🚨
If you told me I’d be completely obsessed with a dark, why-choose reimagining of The Wizard of Oz, I would have told you you're crazy. But Neon Bricks completely blew me away! Think Zodiac Academy meets Beast of the Briar, but with a plus-size, badass hairstylist heroine and a world built on unstable magic and total corruption.
I swallowed this book whole. The tension? Incredible. The world-building? Vivid and gritty. If you love dark fantasy, high stakes, and complex relationships where the FMC is the actual key to saving everything, drop what you are doing and read this immediately you wont be disappointed.
#NeonBricks #BookTok #DarkRomantasy #WhyChoose #ReverseHaremBooks #TwistedOz #BookRecommendations
Review of advance copy
I will be honest keeping my attention with a book is no easy task… between 8 kids and having adhd my mind has trouble staying immersed… however el did just that…. Form chapter one all the way to the end… I cried laughed and held my breath way to much… el has wrote a story that us single mothers can relate to….. the fmm is the prefect embodiment of how far we will go and the storms we will face… the mmm absolutely devastating delicious…. Each one of them equally tempting… if u need a book that’s going to be able keep ur full attention and be something that u could relate to u need to read this book…. I can’t wait for the next one… fyi does end on a cliff hanger
Review of advance copy received from Author
When it comes to retells of stories, like Peter Pan, Sleeping Beauty, etc. I'm usually not a fan because its normally just the same story with spice thrown in. NOT this OZ retelling. It was written so well. I would say its an Urban Fantasy feel and I am so here for it. I fell in love with the characters. The story always had my attention and I want more!! I can not wait for book 2. If you love the world of OZ, found family, smart ass banter, why choose, and 30 year old FMC that doesn't take shit from anyone, pick this up right now!!
Review of advance copy received from Author
ARC Review
Omg this story was written so well. I was hooked from the start. Each character had a well thought out purpose. It had me giggling and then holding my breath and i had to keep going to figure out what happend next. The world building for the different worlds chefs kiss with the detailing of the Emerald City amazing. I thoroughly enjoyed it and I need to know what happends next cause if the cliff hanger. Also as a plus size Girly its nice to have representation in a fanatsy book I feel so seen. Team Hughes all the way.
Thank you so much for choosing me as an ARC reader.
Omg this story was written so well. I was hooked from the start. Each character had a well thought out purpose. It had me giggling and then holding my breath and i had to keep going to figure out what happend next. The world building for the different worlds chefs kiss with the detailing of the Emerald City amazing. I thoroughly enjoyed it and I need to know what happends next cause if the cliff hanger. Also as a plus size Girly its nice to have representation in a fanatsy book I feel so seen. Team Hughes all the way.
Thank you so much for choosing me as an ARC reader.
Review of advance copy received from Author
This book had me laughing, choked up🥹 and kicking my feet. What a whirlwind of emotions!!! I loved the FMC SO MUCH. MY SHAYLAAAA. DON'T EVEN GET ME STARTED ON THESE MEN 🤭✋🏻🔥This was written so well, and I could tell how much thought was put into this book. The retelling of this classic story, was so amazing!
Review of advance copy received from Author
I love a great retelling story and Neon Bricks hits the mark. I didn't realize that it is a series before starting it but I can't wait for the next book in the series. The characters are fun and flawed, just the way I like them. Sarcasm and humor are my favorite coping skill in books making people feel more real and making me laugh. El Wren absolutely delivers with Neon Bricks. :-)
Review of advance copy received from Author
I wasn't sure what to expect going into this. This book was better then I even expected. I had not read anything by this author before but I look forward to reading more books by this author.
I really appreciated the neurodivergent representation in this book.
5 stars and 2 thumbs up
Go read this book!
I really appreciated the neurodivergent representation in this book.
5 stars and 2 thumbs up
Go read this book!
Review of advance copy received from Author
My first ever Arc read!!
This book had me hooked from the very first chapter! I was kicking my feet and on the edge of my seat the whole way though! Be prepared to be transported into a perfect tornado of plot and spice!
This Wizard of Oz, why choose retelling is honestly in my top 5 books so far this year!! El Wren did a big one with this book and I am so happy to be a part of it!
This book had me hooked from the very first chapter! I was kicking my feet and on the edge of my seat the whole way though! Be prepared to be transported into a perfect tornado of plot and spice!
This Wizard of Oz, why choose retelling is honestly in my top 5 books so far this year!! El Wren did a big one with this book and I am so happy to be a part of it!
Review of advance copy received from Author
A fantastic, well written book about discovery and life simple message of never giving up no matter what life throws at you. Was able to connect with the characters feeling all of their emotions. Cant wait for book 2 to find out how the story continues and what challenged Kat and her family will face next. It is a must read for sure!
Review of advance copy received from Author
The beginning of the book for me was confusing. It was really hard to keep all the characters straight. At about page 60 everything started to click. This book is very good and well written. Make sure you read your trigger warnings as some things get very deep in this book. I will definitely be recommending to my friends!
June 20, 2026
Arc review💙
Once you actually start reading the book you cannot put it down. The suspense and storyline of Kathryn discovering who she truly is will keep you on the edge of your seat.
The spice of the book is definitely thrilling. 5 stars just for spice.
I will not spoil the book but it’s on my to read again list.
Once you actually start reading the book you cannot put it down. The suspense and storyline of Kathryn discovering who she truly is will keep you on the edge of your seat.
The spice of the book is definitely thrilling. 5 stars just for spice.
I will not spoil the book but it’s on my to read again list.
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