The Queen of the Enchanted Forest: A Forced Marriage Romantasy

by Catharine Gilis

280 pages, Kindle Edition

Published June 24, 2026

About the author

I live in a house dating back to 1878 (not haunted, unfortunately) and teach teenagers for a living. Whenever I have a moment to spare, I write paranormal and romantasy novels. My debut novel, The Last Viking in London, is out now. The Queen of the Enchanted Forest, the first standalone in a series of interconnected romantasy novels, will be released on June 24th. Feel free to check out my books and let me know what you think.

Reviews

[Nae · Rating 2 out of 5]

DNF at 63%. I really wanted to love this, because I was able to read it through the S.P.A.C.E. Network, which supports indie book launches. Unfortunately, this one really didn't work for me; however, I saw other readers on the platform enjoying it, so hopefully it finds its crowd.

Huge thanks to the author & S.P.A.C.E. network for the opportunity to read an early copy. My thoughts are completely my own, and my honest review is as follows.

Genres, settings, categories, themes: fantasy, romance (M/F), fae, hidden village, wolf shifter

💗 Tropes: 💗
> Fated Mates
> Insta-love
> Marriage Tropes: Forced Marriage
all about tropes here

POV: 1st person, alternating/dual

Series/Sequencing Style: 1st in an anthology series
understanding series types: dynamic, static, anthology - source 1, source 2

Format: ebook (e-ARC)

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Overall ratings

Heat level: ♨ 2/5 sensual steam ♨
(from Ampersand’s guide to heat levels in romance novels – (0) sweet, (1) mild sizzle, (2) sensual steam, (3) spicy seduction, (4) red hot, (5) erotic)

~ Heroine/FMC (Marigold) ~ 2/5 🌕🌕🌑🌑🌑
~ Hero/MMC (Name) ~ 2/5 🌕🌕🌑🌑🌑
~ Other characters ~ 4/5 🌕🌕🌕🌕🌑
~ Plot ~ 2/5 🌕🌕🌑🌑🌑
~ Pacing ~ 3/5 🌕🌕🌕🌑🌑
~ Romance ~ 1/5 🌕🌑🌑🌑🌑
~ World building ~ 1/5 🌕🌑🌑🌑🌑
~ Writing ~ 3/5 🌕🌕🌕🌑🌑
~ Reading enjoyability & fun ~ 2/5 🌕🌕🌑🌑🌑

~ Depth & tone (1 light & fun --> 5 more serious, addresses heavier topics?): 1.5

Will I read more by this author? possibly, but honestly, probably not

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❗CW/Triggers:❗abuse, cruel "games" by the strong fae, emotional & physical abuse by a parent, murder & torture (mentioned, off-page as far as I read), war

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📝 Review/Notes 📝

I had high hopes, but from the very first chapter, I had reservations with our nervous heroine who calls her magic "baby girl magic". I want to support indie authors and I hate leaving such a negative review for this, but I have to be as honest as always with my reviews.

The writing style is a bit awkward, and it definitely feels like a debut, probably a younger one at that.

Unfortunately, I am not a fan of this one. It's cheesy, with rushed pacing, and a nervous, borderline-insipid heroine and a lot of cliches. In addition to her being (generously) naive, or (bluntly) kind of an idiot, she quickly discovers that she can do all these magical things that will save the village, and it's all so easy. Their curse means they just have to start making out immediately and then have sex to avoid painful headaches. Of course, they're fated mates and he takes 2 days to fall in love with her. Everything has a fast, basic explanation and wonderful things just pop up out of nowhere, like her ability to conjure apples–oh and also any food they need to save them from starvation. Big on the fae vs. werewolf thing, and also the soft & clueless female with the hyper-protective alpha male. Sadly, no real intrigue or layering and reads very rudimentary.

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🤠 Recommended for: possibly low-stakes fantasy romance readers who like fated mates, insta-love, and simple writing.

[Lacy · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.25

🐺 ARC Review 🧚‍♀️

I am on a roll with fantastic books this month! This was the cutest, coziest werewolf vs fae (where they do actually war with each other) romantasy. I don't think it's technically meant to be cozy? But I just had so many good feels while reading it, I loved the characters, and it just kept me smiling page after page.

The humor of a fae fitting into this other realm cracked me up. I loved when Marigold would do something Marcus didn't expect and how he'd react to it.

Her abilities were so eye-opening to the others. Her desire to wear fae clothes - shockingly thin - it was just...instantly endearing as a character and I wanted her to be accepted so badly.

If I had to be critical - the depth of characters is a tad bit shallow, but I think that's mostly because of the length of the book. I like them, but they're a bit surface level.

Also, there was a part that I understand why it was put in, but felt produced to have a specific effect. Obviously, all books are written to elicit something, but this part felt pretty fake and I wasn't a massive fan - but it's, like 5 pages out of the whole book. I felt I needed to note this, but it's not a massive impact to the book overall.

If you like found family, one bed, or cozy fantasy you may like this book. Also, if you're looking for a quicker read, it's only about 275 pages!

Triggers: Violence, Death - Also, depending on your background of SA, some of the plot concerning the forced marriage could be triggering. Read with caution.

[Priscilla · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Queen of the Enchanted Forest is a captivating forced marriage romantasy that completely swept me away. From the very first page, the author’s writing stood out with its rich detail and vivid descriptions. Every scene was so beautifully crafted that it felt like I was watching a movie unfold in my head rather than reading a book.

Forced marriage is my favorite trope, and this story reminded me why it can be so enjoyable. Watching Marcus and Marigold navigate their unexpected circumstances and build trust, understanding, and undeniable chemistry was incredibly entertaining. Their relationship development felt natural and rewarding, with plenty of emotion and heartfelt moments along the way.

The enchanting world, engaging characters, and immersive storytelling kept me invested from beginning to end. If you’re a fan of romantasy with character growth, magical settings, and a romance that blossoms in unexpected ways, I highly recommend adding this one to your TBR immediately.

Huge thanks to the author for the opportunity to read an early copy of this book. I am leaving an honest review voluntarily.

[Eva The soft curse · Rating 4 out of 5]

ARC honest review

Queen of the Enchanted Forest was such an enjoyable surprise. It delivers a wonderful blend of fantasy, romance, and found family while keeping the story fast paced and easy to get lost in.

Marigold starts as a princess trapped by a cruel and manipulative father who sees her as nothing more than a political tool. Watching her leave behind a lifetime of fear and slowly discover her own strength was one of my favourite parts of the book. Her journey feels genuine and incredibly satisfying.

Marcus is everything I wanted in a werewolf king: protective, patient, and completely devoted. Their forced marriage develops naturally into a relationship built on trust and respect, making every interaction between them feel meaningful.

The supporting cast adds so much warmth and personality, and the magical world is full of fascinating traditions that I can’t wait to explore further. By the end, I was already excited for more stories set in the Enchanted Forest. A charming romantasy with a sweet, emotional romance and memorable characters.

[Joy S · Rating 5 out of 5]

*Fae x werewolf
*magical forest
*anomaly
*fae and shift royalty

Catchy from the beginning, The Queen of the Enchanted Forest will have you captivated from the beginning. Cruelty from a fae king and cast aside, his daughter Princess Marigold must make life changing decisions on who to marry.
"Not everyone is named after a foolish red flower by their cruel, sadistic beast of a father before being stripped naked in front of every Tom, Dick, and Harry in the fae world and forced to marry either the hired help or the werewolf enemy next door." The characters are lovable, the magical elements are unique, and the way this story was written was so well done!

"The Queen of the Enchanted Forest" emotionally devastating (in the best way), I'm still not okay. Catharine Gilis is an auto-buy author for me now. ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

[Jackie Carroll · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was such a sweet, whimsical, and heartwarming fantasy. I loved watching Marigold grow into her confidence and finally recognize her own worth, especially with the encouragement and support of Marcus and those around her. Marcus and Marigold were an adorable couple, and their relationship added so much charm to the story.

I also have to mention Kevin and Ruby, who completely stole so many scenes. Their personalities brought extra warmth, humor, and heart to the story, making the world feel even more alive. I especially loved the incorporation of the trolls, who added even more magic, personality, and whimsy to the enchanted forest setting.

Overall, this was a fun, uplifting read filled with magic, lovable characters, and an enchanting atmosphere that left me smiling long after I finished.

[Neka B • Reader of Realms · Rating 4 out of 5]

​This book was honestly such a treat to read, and it is just so beautifully written from start to finish. It had me completely hooked to the point where I was flying through the chapters just to see what would happen next (and honestly, dealing with a very strong urge to throttle Marigold's father along the way). It is so refreshing to read a fantasy where the magic is easy to understand and not overly complicated at all.
​I absolutely love reading about men who grovel and pine. Even though their initial situation and the foundation of their relationship were definitely not ideal, watching the shift happen and witnessing them fall for each other was everything. It paid off with an ending that was heartfelt in all the best ways.

[ALYSA HORSMAN · Rating 5 out of 5]

The day her father drops in the Enchanted Forest for being a disgrace to the fae in his eye, she is forced into a marriage she never for sought coming. Her future husband is an unlikely adversary and becomes more than meets the eye. With each day their bonds grow stronger as they overcome obstacles that are placed in front of them.

This story is of their fated first meeting to their strongest bond over war and choices they make in the end securing their future. It is fast paced and will keep you on your toes.

So glad I got to read an early copy of this story! My thoughts here are 100% voluntary and my own.

[coley · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this book! It was a story that began with a forced marriage between a fae and werewolf, and was genuinely very sweet. I enjoyed the funny lines and scenes that were slipped in. While this had cozy fantasy vibes, it definitely had some spice. This would be perfect for readers who like quicker moving books, as this had a lot packed into relatively short book. I really liked several of our characters, and I am excited for the next one this author writes!

Thank you to both Space Network and the author for the ARC copy of this book. This review and all opinions are my own.

[Zulma · Rating 4 out of 5]

To begin with the Name Marigold is absolutely beautiful. The story is about Marigold and Marcus building Trust. Developing their relationship it felt so real. So genuine. Even though they had their challenges as I call them. The story is super cute. The fact that it's a quick read too. I was upset cause Kind of wanted to keep reading more. More about the characters. I'm just getting into wolf shifters and fae readings so it felt rushed in some areas. I appreciate the author for providing me an early copy to read. Leaving reviews is what I love to do.

[Chelsea · Rating 4 out of 5]

4/5⭐️

Thank you to the author and to the Space Network for an ARC in exchange for my honest review.

What a fun little ride this was! And proof that a romantasy doesn’t need to be 800 pages to get the job done. The world building was succinct, there wasn’t any unnecessary character development that didn’t move the plot, which by the way moved with rapid enough pacing that I never felt like I wanted to put down. I loved the relationship between Marcus and Marigold, and I look forward to other stories in this universe!

[Leigh-Anne · Rating 4 out of 5]

If you are looking for romantasy with yearning, suspense, excitement, a bit of romance and comedy then this book is for you to pick up on ...... I couldn't put this book down once I started reading it. The fated mates and relationships between not just the main characters, but side characters too, was amazing to read.

[Amy Tighe · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book!! Loved the relationship between Marigold and Marcus! Everyone needs someone in their lives who supports them unconditionally. The supporting characters are also compelling and I cannot wait to find out more about what happens in some of their lives.

I received an advanced reader copy from the author and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Ashlee Ann · Rating 4 out of 5]

First, this is not the type of book I go after normally. I do not like many if any romantasy books. They are cliche and rampant with negative issue. That is why this book was an extremely pleasant surprise. This is a story that actually ties the romance and the mild spice into a real story. It is well written and overall well done romance. The only issue is really had was that it feels like it moves too fast on the whole.

[Brittney · Rating 5 out of 5]

Addictingly good! I was hooked from the beginning and couldn’t read fast enough. It was beautiful and fast paced but done so well. Fated mates is my kryptonite and I loved it so much. Marigold and Marcus will have you on the edge of your seat. Please read this book!

[Candace's_Book_Nook · Rating 5 out of 5]

"The Queen of the Enchanted Forest" by Catharine Gilis was absolutely addictive. If you love books you can't put down, this one is for you. Highly recommend.

[Sage · Rating 5 out of 5]

Queen of the Enchanted Forest by Catharine Gilis - ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Thank you so much to The SPACE Network for the ARC! 🫶

Can love grow in a prison of war? The fae crown princess, Marigold, is thrown into her father's political prison as punishment for disobedience. Her father forces her to marry Marcus, the reigning king of the camp and a werewolf. Will they be able to make their marriage work while waging war against the fae?

This was just a STUNNING book 🥹 We follow Marigold, the fae princess cast out by her father, and Marcus, reigning werewolf king of the Enchanted Forest, as they are forced into marriage by the cruel fae king. Strangers, they awkwardly attempt to get to know one another, and Marigold attempts to gain the trust of the people in the hidden city of the Enchanted Forest, when it’s revealed that Marcus and Marigold are fated mates— destined to be together. The two attempt to find steadiness in their relationship, cautiously testing the waters of romance while at the same time waging war against the fae king.
The romance was DELIGHTFUL in this— Marcus, the werewolf, is incredibly possessive over and enamored with his mate. It’s an entirely new experience for Marigold, given that most fae marriages are arranged and tend to be more based on corresponding fae magics than romance.
Kevin, Marcus’s dwarf best friend, takes his time warming up to Marigold— in his eyes, untrustworthy as the daughter of the fae king— but it was so sweet seeing their friendship develop!
The worldbuilding was fascinating, as well! I loved learning about Marigold’s magic, (usually cruel) fae customs, and her slow unlearning of them. This is truly a beautiful romantasy that will sweep you off your feet! Kudos, Catharine Gilis! I loved Marcus and Marigold’s story— as well as being introduced to Kevin and Rose and Basil and Lavender and Odin and Zella! I can’t wait for what comes next!

[Tysha · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a fast-paced, easy to read, story that I very much enjoyed.

Marigold is the daughter of the Fae king, Hemlock, who is very much your typical tyrannical PoS. Having dragged his daughter into the Enchanted Forest, where the king would often hunt the residents without mercy, he gives her an ultimatum. She can either submit to his will and marry his captain, which she has already refused to do, marry "King Mutt", or face death.

King Mutt is actually Marcus, a werewolf who rules and protects the Enchanted Forest. Not wanting to see Marigold harmed, he agrees to take her as his wife, but the Fae king has magic at his disposal to ensure their marriage is consummated, else they will both suffer unbearable pain.

Thankfully Marcus is a far fairer and kinder king than Hemlock, and the newly weds quickly come to love and respect each other.

I really enjoyed seeing their relationship grow, and Marigold realising she could be a valuable member of society, despite having been told by her father just how useless she was for most of her life. She absolutely deserved better than the life Hemlock gave her, and Marcus was able to provide that to her.

I'm very much looking forward to reading more stories set in this world, the teaser in the back of this book has me rather excited to learn more about the inhabitants of the Enchanted Forest.

I received an ARC of this ebook from the author, thanks to The SPACE Network, and I'm voluntarily leaving this review.

[Beth H. · Rating 4 out of 5]

Queen of the Enchanted Forest is a cute, standalone fantasy, with fairytale vibes.

Marigold is princess and heir to the Fae throne. Unfortunately, her father is not satisfied with her magical powers. He gives her 3 options, marry a commoner of his choosing, marry the King of the Enchanted Forest, or die. Marigolds decision sends her on a whirlwind adventure of love, acceptance, and true happiness.

I really enjoyed this book. Catharine Gilis did an excellent job bringing the story to life with exceptional detail. I fully grasped all the backstory and lore in a very short amount of time thanks to these details.

The characters were well thought out and had good depth. My heart broke for Marigold and the way she was treated and ignored by her father. She did not even know the basics about herself as a woman.

Overall, if you are looking for a standalone fantasy with fairytale vibes, I think you will enjoy this one!

Thank you S.P.A.C.E. Network for the early copy!

[Melanie Rut · Rating 4 out of 5]

Firstly, thank you to
Catharine Gilis and SPACE Network for the ARC!

4.5/5 STARS!

Queen of the Enchanted Forest wasn't what I expected going in, but it turned out to be such a pleasant surprise! It is a super adorable and whimsical story that makes for a wonderfully lighthearted read from start to finish.

One of the absolute highlights for me was the supporting characters. Kevin and Ruby were so cute and their dynamic immediately reminded me of Gnomeo and Juliet in the best possible way.

I am already hooked on this universe and absolutely cannot wait to see the growing families, the wonderful side characters, and our faves again in the next books.

I really hope Basil and Lavender get a book to shine one day, and we can see the fae lands!

Highly recommend it if you are looking for something sweet, magical, and
entirely cozy!

[Ghaz · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really enjoy reading this. The world building inn this book is very interesting. The magical world in this book is so interesting with its fascinating traditions and i like how author still left the mystery element for us to discover more in the next books. I loved the character development of marigold, how in start she was trapped princess and as the story unfolds, she gets stronger, it was beautiful to watch that. Marcus was amazing. I love werewolf’s more than vampires and this book has given me one of my favorite werewolf king. The way Marcus and marigold relationship develops from forced marriage into meaningful relationship, it is great. The found family was also very nice. All the characters had such great personality. I am really excited to read more books from this series.

[Raquel · Rating 3 out of 5]

The Queen of the Enchanted Forest had a lot of unique elements that felt refreshing as a romantasy reader. The world was interesting, and I liked the mix of fae and werewolves.

That said, I struggled to connect with the romance. Marcus and Marigold’s relationship felt underdeveloped to me, and I had a hard time fully believing their connection.

Overall, it was an intriguing concept with some fresh ideas, but I was left wanting more character development and emotional depth to really make the story shine.

Thank you to the author for the opportunity to read an early copy. I’m leaving my honest review completely voluntarily.

[Abbie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Incredibly, nice and quick read and I loved it. The book follows Marigold the daughter of fae king, who gave her the choice of death or marriage to the king of the Enchanted Forest Marcus, who is also a werewolf and her fated mate.

I loved seeing their relationship grow throughout the book as well as the growth of Marigold’s trust and confidence.

As a lover of the fated mates trope this book was perfect. Would definitely recommend it to anybody who likes the trope and romantasy. And I cannot wait for the next book in the series.

I received an Arc of this book, thanks to the SPACE network. All opinions are my own.

[Jennifer Wiehe · Rating 5 out of 5]

What would you do if what should be the worst possible scenario became the biggest blessing of your life? This is the adventure we go on with Marigold and Marcus, who have been forced into marriage by her ruthless father, King of the Fae. This is an entertaining story with all the feels. A complete page turner, I couldn't put it down, and had to know what was coming next! The characters are so relatable and we get to share many laughs. This book truly has it all. I'd rate it more stars if I could! Shoutout to the author for an early copy of this book! Happy to leave my honest review completely on my own accord.

[Kerry Garrick · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was such a wonderful read. My poor heart got dragged through the mill!

Marigold the FMC is just adorable. I wanted to take her into my arms and hug her. I absolutely loved journeying with her, and I was delighted that she gained the strength to fend off the enemy.

Marcus wasn’t what I was expecting him to be. I really enjoyed his character, and my heart broke for him trying to find his family.

The trolls, truly humourous and played an integral part in The Enchanted Forest.

I’m looking forward to reading their stories.

[Hannah Barnett · Rating 4 out of 5]

I loved this book! I think that if you want to dip your toes into fantasy, this is the book to start with! It was a fun and fast paced read that had me shook and laughing at the same time! The writing was smooth and easy to follow! This has fated mates, forced proximity and to me grumpy sunshine to a point! I am so glad to have found this author, and I can not wait to read more by her!

So glad I got to read an early copy of this story! My thoughts here are 100% voluntary and my own.

[amelia Cartwright · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a great pallet cleanser book. If you just finished a gut wrenching ending to a book or just need a quick reset. You must read the story of Marigold and Marcus. This story is a cute romantic book that has forced bond, forced proximity ,fated mates and a magical creatures of all kinds.
Marigold is a strong willed fae with horrid father and needs a new life. Marcus a werewolf shifter and king of the forest may be her be option.
You don’t want to miss this story.

[HEATHER · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book had me hooked from day one. Very fast paced. The characters development throughout the book was great. This was a very addictive read I had a hard time putting it down. This is one of my favorite tropes to read. Story was well written. Loved watching the character development between the main two characters ."
- "So glad I got to read an early copy of this story! My thoughts here are 100% voluntary and my own."

[Shalini Shree · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Queen of the Enchanted Forest by Chatharine Gilis ✨
⭐⭐⭐⭐/5

Can love grow in a prison of war ?
This was such a cozy, lighthearted, subtle Romantasy. I adored the relationship between Marigold & Marcus where marcus helped marigold to overcome her fear and regained her lost confidence that was taken away from her after being told she wasn't enough because of her baby magic. The supporting characters - Kevin & Ruby, Lavender & Basil, they stole my whole heart 🫶🏼

[Mandy Edwards · Rating 3 out of 5]

This was a quick, easy read, like a Disney movie in your head.

This is a romantasy where he falls hard first. Combined with elements of forced/arranged marriage, magic, and found family this is truly magical read.

I would honestly give this 3 stars - it was good.

Thanks for The Space Network and Catherine Gilis for the ARC to review.