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Magic in the Wilds
The newest installment of the Rebellion in the Mist series.
Rejoin your favorite characters for more:
Found Family
Fake Dating
She Saves Him
Laugh Out Loud Moments
High Stakes & Tension
Open-door Spice
MAGIC CAN BE A WEAPON IF YOU KNOW HOW TO WIELD IT
The key to defeating the Empire’s tyranny lies in a long-forgotten magic, or so Ness Riseworth hopes. When she discovered buried powers within herself, she was whisked from the clutches of the Emperor’s General before he could use her to his own ends.
Brought to Agora for safety by Ransom Dimitris, the tattooed rogue governor of the Southern State, Ness must hide in Ransom’s shadow, posing as his future wife. Her feelings for the infuriatingly handsome leader are complicated, but her attraction to him can’t be denied.
While navigating a city filled with illicit businesses and enemies around every corner, she needs to uncover the secret of her magic before the Empire finds her. When devastating news reaches her ears, she can’t search in books anymore, and sets out into the wilds of the desert hoping to find clues in a ghost town.
What she finds instead will change the course of the rebellion.
Rejoin your favorite characters for more:
Found Family
Fake Dating
She Saves Him
Laugh Out Loud Moments
High Stakes & Tension
Open-door Spice
MAGIC CAN BE A WEAPON IF YOU KNOW HOW TO WIELD IT
The key to defeating the Empire’s tyranny lies in a long-forgotten magic, or so Ness Riseworth hopes. When she discovered buried powers within herself, she was whisked from the clutches of the Emperor’s General before he could use her to his own ends.
Brought to Agora for safety by Ransom Dimitris, the tattooed rogue governor of the Southern State, Ness must hide in Ransom’s shadow, posing as his future wife. Her feelings for the infuriatingly handsome leader are complicated, but her attraction to him can’t be denied.
While navigating a city filled with illicit businesses and enemies around every corner, she needs to uncover the secret of her magic before the Empire finds her. When devastating news reaches her ears, she can’t search in books anymore, and sets out into the wilds of the desert hoping to find clues in a ghost town.
What she finds instead will change the course of the rebellion.
423 pages, Paperback
Published September 18, 2026
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Displaying 1 - 17 of 17 reviews
Review of advance copy received from Author
After finishing book 1 (Rebellion in the Mist), I was frothing at the mouth to get my hands on book 2. The cliffhanger of book 1 needed to be remedied 😂 Thank you to the author for letting me be on the ARC Team!
The political intrigue continued in this book and it was exciting to learn more about the magic system alongside Ness. I really enjoyed getting to see some of Agora and getting more of Ransom’s backstory in this book as well. I had high hopes of seeing more of the inner workings of the rebellion, and while we got a small view of it, I did wish we got more in this book. I do think this is somewhat intentional though, as Ness is still a bit in the dark, especially in the beginning.
The pacing of this book felt a little off for me. Not sure if this is just a me issue, but it felt like we got some action in the beginning, more action at the end … but the middle felt a bit like we were at a standstill plot-wise. I found myself really craving more plot progression. Without giving away spoilers, some events occur early in the book that could have been explored more in depth - it was exciting and intriguing - and then nothing was really done with it.
I struggled with Ness at times in this 2nd installment too. While she had very valid reasons to have trust issues after the events of book 1, some of her decision making in this book frustrated me at times.
I am still very intrigued by the story overall and learning more about the magic system/witches. This book ends in a cliffhanger as well, and I’m excited to see where this goes next!
The political intrigue continued in this book and it was exciting to learn more about the magic system alongside Ness. I really enjoyed getting to see some of Agora and getting more of Ransom’s backstory in this book as well. I had high hopes of seeing more of the inner workings of the rebellion, and while we got a small view of it, I did wish we got more in this book. I do think this is somewhat intentional though, as Ness is still a bit in the dark, especially in the beginning.
The pacing of this book felt a little off for me. Not sure if this is just a me issue, but it felt like we got some action in the beginning, more action at the end … but the middle felt a bit like we were at a standstill plot-wise. I found myself really craving more plot progression. Without giving away spoilers, some events occur early in the book that could have been explored more in depth - it was exciting and intriguing - and then nothing was really done with it.
I struggled with Ness at times in this 2nd installment too. While she had very valid reasons to have trust issues after the events of book 1, some of her decision making in this book frustrated me at times.
I am still very intrigued by the story overall and learning more about the magic system/witches. This book ends in a cliffhanger as well, and I’m excited to see where this goes next!
September 18, 2026
4.5 stars rounded up.
Character based review because honestly that's what made this book:
NESS: I love her. She finally gets to be more than just "the girl with the scary magic she doesn't understand." She's angry, she's scared, she's feral in the best way. The way she goes from hiding in Ransom's shadow to literally walking into a ghost town in the desert alone because she's done waiting for answers?? Mother. And yes, SHE SAVES HIM. I was screaming. It's not performative girlboss stuff, she just refuses to let anyone else be used as a weapon again. Her magic arc is so much more interesting here too.
RANSOM: Tattooed rogue governor who is actually obsessed with his fake fiancée? I'm seated. He is still infuriating and cocky and runs Agora like a hot, morally grey crime lord, but you see so much more of his soft side here. The found family thing with his crew + Ness wrecked me. He lets her be dangerous. He doesn't try to cage her magic, he just stands behind her like "go burn it all down, love." And the fake dating?? The tension is STUPID. Like you guys are NOT fooling anyone.
Their dynamic is what saved this for me - it's not just spice (though the open-door scenes?? hello??), it's that they actually like each other. The banter had me laughing out loud on the metro. He annoys her, she threatens him, then two pages later they're being disgustingly tender. Complicated feelings is an understatement.
The plot gets way bigger here - less hiding in libraries, more wild desert magic, ghost towns, rebellion stakes actually feeling high. That cliffhanger / twist in the desert? I didn't see it coming and now I need book 3 immediately.
If you loved the slow burn and found family in book 1, this is messier, hornier, and way more magical. Read it for Ness becoming THAT girl and Ransom being completely down bad for her.
Tropes: fake engagement, she saves him, found family, grumpy x sunshine but makes it both grumpy, magic training, high stakes rebellion.
Character based review because honestly that's what made this book:
NESS: I love her. She finally gets to be more than just "the girl with the scary magic she doesn't understand." She's angry, she's scared, she's feral in the best way. The way she goes from hiding in Ransom's shadow to literally walking into a ghost town in the desert alone because she's done waiting for answers?? Mother. And yes, SHE SAVES HIM. I was screaming. It's not performative girlboss stuff, she just refuses to let anyone else be used as a weapon again. Her magic arc is so much more interesting here too.
RANSOM: Tattooed rogue governor who is actually obsessed with his fake fiancée? I'm seated. He is still infuriating and cocky and runs Agora like a hot, morally grey crime lord, but you see so much more of his soft side here. The found family thing with his crew + Ness wrecked me. He lets her be dangerous. He doesn't try to cage her magic, he just stands behind her like "go burn it all down, love." And the fake dating?? The tension is STUPID. Like you guys are NOT fooling anyone.
Their dynamic is what saved this for me - it's not just spice (though the open-door scenes?? hello??), it's that they actually like each other. The banter had me laughing out loud on the metro. He annoys her, she threatens him, then two pages later they're being disgustingly tender. Complicated feelings is an understatement.
The plot gets way bigger here - less hiding in libraries, more wild desert magic, ghost towns, rebellion stakes actually feeling high. That cliffhanger / twist in the desert? I didn't see it coming and now I need book 3 immediately.
If you loved the slow burn and found family in book 1, this is messier, hornier, and way more magical. Read it for Ness becoming THAT girl and Ransom being completely down bad for her.
Tropes: fake engagement, she saves him, found family, grumpy x sunshine but makes it both grumpy, magic training, high stakes rebellion.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Definitely need to read book 1, “Rebellion in the Mist” prior to reading Magic in the Wilds. This review may contain spoilers for “Rebellion in the Mist”
I was so super excited when I got to be an ARC reader for this book! Maddy had me hooked with RITM and with the way it ended, I was so happy I could just jump right into Magic in the Wilds.
Our story with Ness continues; now in Agora, Ness has fully embraced the rebellion. She is on a mission to find herself, understand her magic, and help the rebellion in any way she can. After having her trust in men shattered at the end of RITM, she is hesitant to dive into anything with Ransom, Agora’s “rogue governor”. I find Ness immature at this point. I understand Marley wanting to show her understandable hesitancy, and to show that Ness is trying for healthy growth in her relationships, I do. But it seems a little extreme, even given the terrible circumstances. The parallels she draws just don’t jive for me like they probably should. I love the overarching story. I love that Ness is independent, that her strength is found in herself and not through the validation of others. I love that she finds strength, courage, friendship and love. The ending? Left me shocked. The final scenes in Agora, and then the very last scene? All caught me off guard. Not sure that I loved all the choices, especially the timeline/timing, but I am excited to see how it plays out in the next installment. So far Marley has kept me on my toes with twists I don’t expect, so I’m trusting the process and excited for book 3!
I was so super excited when I got to be an ARC reader for this book! Maddy had me hooked with RITM and with the way it ended, I was so happy I could just jump right into Magic in the Wilds.
Our story with Ness continues; now in Agora, Ness has fully embraced the rebellion. She is on a mission to find herself, understand her magic, and help the rebellion in any way she can. After having her trust in men shattered at the end of RITM, she is hesitant to dive into anything with Ransom, Agora’s “rogue governor”. I find Ness immature at this point. I understand Marley wanting to show her understandable hesitancy, and to show that Ness is trying for healthy growth in her relationships, I do. But it seems a little extreme, even given the terrible circumstances. The parallels she draws just don’t jive for me like they probably should. I love the overarching story. I love that Ness is independent, that her strength is found in herself and not through the validation of others. I love that she finds strength, courage, friendship and love. The ending? Left me shocked. The final scenes in Agora, and then the very last scene? All caught me off guard. Not sure that I loved all the choices, especially the timeline/timing, but I am excited to see how it plays out in the next installment. So far Marley has kept me on my toes with twists I don’t expect, so I’m trusting the process and excited for book 3!
Review of advance copy received from Author
This is the second book in the ‘Rebellion in the Mist’ series and it was every bit as brilliant as the first book! After spending weeks in Nixia as a spy for the Empire, a series of brutal revelations sees Ness switch sides and join the rebellion. We jump straight back in as she arrives in Agora, with Ransom wasting no time getting down to business and arranging a lot of moving parts!
The rebellion is heating up, and Ness finds herself right at the centre of it all. But that’s not the only thing reaching boiling point..the attraction between Ness and Ransom is becoming impossible for either of them to ignore. The slow burn payoff in this book is so satisfying!! We get spice galore and it’s what I like to call, chefs kiss!😙🤌🏻
I loved getting to find out more about the magic system alongside Ness. Absolutely adored that Sugardrop made another cameo - that horse is the sassiest creature and I’m here for it.
The Rebellion reaches a critical point, however all is not what it seems. The plot twists keep twisting and the cliff hanger left me wanting more! Bravo again to Marley for writing yet another fantastic and captivating story! Thank you so much for the opportunity to read this ARC!
Magic In The Wilds releases on 18th September - pre order your copy now and join the rebellion!!✨
The rebellion is heating up, and Ness finds herself right at the centre of it all. But that’s not the only thing reaching boiling point..the attraction between Ness and Ransom is becoming impossible for either of them to ignore. The slow burn payoff in this book is so satisfying!! We get spice galore and it’s what I like to call, chefs kiss!😙🤌🏻
I loved getting to find out more about the magic system alongside Ness. Absolutely adored that Sugardrop made another cameo - that horse is the sassiest creature and I’m here for it.
The Rebellion reaches a critical point, however all is not what it seems. The plot twists keep twisting and the cliff hanger left me wanting more! Bravo again to Marley for writing yet another fantastic and captivating story! Thank you so much for the opportunity to read this ARC!
Magic In The Wilds releases on 18th September - pre order your copy now and join the rebellion!!✨
September 15, 2026
Review of Advance Copy received from author
After finishing book one back in February, I’ve been anxiously awaiting this sequel! Book two picks up directly where book one ends with Ness agreeing to pose as Ransom’s fiancée in order to continue aiding the rebellion.
As the (last?) remaining golden eyed Witch, she has power beyond what the realm knows, if she could actually figure out how to access it! A tragic event sends Ness reeling and she runs away to the desert where she stumbles across some answers but even more questions.
Armed with ancient tomes, she returns to the rebellion ready to unlock the magic in everyone. Her return also means she must address the rising tension between her and Ransom. (Side note: their chemistry is 🥵 and I could read an entire book where they never leave the bedroom).
With their lives in the balance, should she remain focused on her magic and saving the realm? Should she allow her heart to shine and finally give in to the building desires? What would it mean if she could manage both?
The Empire descends and the battle for independence rages. I won’t spoil anything but… THAT ENDING was insane. I need to know what happens next!
———
This book was a WILD ride from start to finish. My only complaint is I wish her time in the desert felt a bit rushed. I wanted her to get more answers and maybe practice!
After finishing book one back in February, I’ve been anxiously awaiting this sequel! Book two picks up directly where book one ends with Ness agreeing to pose as Ransom’s fiancée in order to continue aiding the rebellion.
As the (last?) remaining golden eyed Witch, she has power beyond what the realm knows, if she could actually figure out how to access it! A tragic event sends Ness reeling and she runs away to the desert where she stumbles across some answers but even more questions.
Armed with ancient tomes, she returns to the rebellion ready to unlock the magic in everyone. Her return also means she must address the rising tension between her and Ransom. (Side note: their chemistry is 🥵 and I could read an entire book where they never leave the bedroom).
With their lives in the balance, should she remain focused on her magic and saving the realm? Should she allow her heart to shine and finally give in to the building desires? What would it mean if she could manage both?
The Empire descends and the battle for independence rages. I won’t spoil anything but… THAT ENDING was insane. I need to know what happens next!
———
This book was a WILD ride from start to finish. My only complaint is I wish her time in the desert felt a bit rushed. I wanted her to get more answers and maybe practice!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Magic in the Wilds by Marley Ferguson is the second book in the series, and thank you, Marley, for letting me read this one!
Ness is really coming into her power in this book, and I loved watching her realize just how much she has been held back. And now? She is determined to make them pay for it.
We also learn more about her friends and SO much more about Ransom, and I was here for all of it. There is so much happening in this book, and I loved seeing Ness grow into who she is becoming.
And that ending though… 😳 I seriously thought we had a pretty perfect ending around 96%, and then you had to throw THAT curveball at us?! Now I need book 3 immediately!
Marley… when will book 3 be out?! Because I clearly cannot be trusted to wait patiently.
Ness is really coming into her power in this book, and I loved watching her realize just how much she has been held back. And now? She is determined to make them pay for it.
We also learn more about her friends and SO much more about Ransom, and I was here for all of it. There is so much happening in this book, and I loved seeing Ness grow into who she is becoming.
And that ending though… 😳 I seriously thought we had a pretty perfect ending around 96%, and then you had to throw THAT curveball at us?! Now I need book 3 immediately!
Marley… when will book 3 be out?! Because I clearly cannot be trusted to wait patiently.
September 18, 2026
Wow, this book was packed with so much stuff! The first two hundred pages or so, were a little bit slow. After that, the book took off and what a wild ride it was! Ransom and Ness had some good times, and the ending was a bit of a shock! There will definitely be another book, and I am very curious about how Ness is going to get out of the bit of trouble that she is in.
Overall, do I think the book is good? Yes, I actually enjoyed Ness learning how to unlock and use her powers. I was a bit confused about the ending. It has been a while since I read the first book and kind of forgot who Drakemore is. If you have read the first book, I would suggest a small re-read prior to diving into this one.
Overall, do I think the book is good? Yes, I actually enjoyed Ness learning how to unlock and use her powers. I was a bit confused about the ending. It has been a while since I read the first book and kind of forgot who Drakemore is. If you have read the first book, I would suggest a small re-read prior to diving into this one.
Review of advance copy received from Author
This is the second book in the Rebellion in the Mist series and must be read in order!
I absolutely flew through this book! Ness is now fully on the rebellion’s side, and she’s ready to fight the Empire. She’s also fake engaged to Ransom, who is planning to lead the rebellion.
I’m not giving away any spoilers, but in my humble opinion, this series is a MUST READ! It’s full of political intrigue, magic, spies, secret missions, and SO MUCH SPICE!
I was so happy we finally got to really dive deeper into Ransom and Ness’s love story. Their relationship has been building, and I was absolutely here for it!
Now I just need to not so patiently wait for the next book!
I absolutely flew through this book! Ness is now fully on the rebellion’s side, and she’s ready to fight the Empire. She’s also fake engaged to Ransom, who is planning to lead the rebellion.
I’m not giving away any spoilers, but in my humble opinion, this series is a MUST READ! It’s full of political intrigue, magic, spies, secret missions, and SO MUCH SPICE!
I was so happy we finally got to really dive deeper into Ransom and Ness’s love story. Their relationship has been building, and I was absolutely here for it!
Now I just need to not so patiently wait for the next book!
September 18, 2026
A well-written sequel that kept me glued to the pages every chance I opened the book. The journey Ness went on allowed for her growth within and I loved seeing the development of her character. The spice levels were definitely upped in this one, almost to a point of too much, but it didn't feel to detract from the plot despite that. The final third of the book really picked up and as the climax came to a peak, I was left feeling shocked and excited all at once. The ending it left off on was a wild one that leaves me needing that third book ASAP.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Magic in the Wilds is a great follow-up to our first adventure with Ness. I'm really enjoying this world and these characters.
There's lots of tension, the slow burn is fire, the stakes are getting higher. Character development is solid. World building is great. All in all, an excellent read and it's so easy to binge this world.
Can't wait for the next book in this series!
✨ Review of advance copy received from Author ✨
There's lots of tension, the slow burn is fire, the stakes are getting higher. Character development is solid. World building is great. All in all, an excellent read and it's so easy to binge this world.
Can't wait for the next book in this series!
✨ Review of advance copy received from Author ✨
Review of advance copy received from Author
I cannot begin to express how much I loved this book!!! If you liked Rebellion in the Mists, you are going to ABSOLUTELY LOVE Magic in the Wilds!
I loved seeing the changes in persona that we saw in Ransom depending on who was around and where they were in the city. Yet even when you look at how he is out and about, he still always protects and yearns for Ness. The slowburn continues to be a slowburn but we do get some spice in this one and it is fantastic. Marley uses the spice and yearning to further the story, not just as random fun.
Elpis is one of my new favorite book characters ever. She is absolutely hilarious and so dramatic. I need her and Wynn to meet because you can't tell me they wouldn't be the best of friends bonding over looking after Ness.
It is also beautiful watching Ness grow as a character and with her magic. We know from book 1 that she has quite a bit of trauma and we get to see how she works through that and how it effects her with Ransom and her position in the rebellion. I think Ness may be one of my fave FMCs because while she does make a lot of stupid decisions, you can also see WHY she makes those choices and see how she grows. She fights hard for those she loves and I love her for that.
The cliffhanger is brutal and makes me so excited to see what happens next.
I cannot recommend this series enough for any romantasy lovers out there!
I loved seeing the changes in persona that we saw in Ransom depending on who was around and where they were in the city. Yet even when you look at how he is out and about, he still always protects and yearns for Ness. The slowburn continues to be a slowburn but we do get some spice in this one and it is fantastic. Marley uses the spice and yearning to further the story, not just as random fun.
Elpis is one of my new favorite book characters ever. She is absolutely hilarious and so dramatic. I need her and Wynn to meet because you can't tell me they wouldn't be the best of friends bonding over looking after Ness.
It is also beautiful watching Ness grow as a character and with her magic. We know from book 1 that she has quite a bit of trauma and we get to see how she works through that and how it effects her with Ransom and her position in the rebellion. I think Ness may be one of my fave FMCs because while she does make a lot of stupid decisions, you can also see WHY she makes those choices and see how she grows. She fights hard for those she loves and I love her for that.
The cliffhanger is brutal and makes me so excited to see what happens next.
I cannot recommend this series enough for any romantasy lovers out there!
Review of advance copy received from Author
OMG I'm absolutely loving this series!!!
The story picks seamlessly from book one. We finally get that slow burn payoff and it's magical. The lore and background of the witches was fun to learn more about! The plot twist were jaw dropping and the ending took me out! I need to know what happens next. oh and we were blessed with more Sugardrop shenanigans.
The story picks seamlessly from book one. We finally get that slow burn payoff and it's magical. The lore and background of the witches was fun to learn more about! The plot twist were jaw dropping and the ending took me out! I need to know what happens next. oh and we were blessed with more Sugardrop shenanigans.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I'm loving this series and was thrilled to get an ARC...but now I need book 3!!
I enjoyed so many things about this book. Especially the reveals from the first book that I had discovered and was waiting to learn more about. There are so many layers to this story and I can't wait to see how it continues.
I enjoyed so many things about this book. Especially the reveals from the first book that I had discovered and was waiting to learn more about. There are so many layers to this story and I can't wait to see how it continues.
September 18, 2026
I’m glad I got to see where the story would take Ness and everyone else after reading Rebellion. Faking an engagement when both parties have fluctuating emotions sounds so hard. And who knew it could take so long to get through a magic book. There were some instances I side eyed but that’s to be expected. 4-4.25 stars just like Rebellion. Got to read it early and I really cut it close lol.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Enjoyed this sequel to the series. Lots of slow burn erupting and enjoyed the frustration of the people around them. Also had to laugh at the reactions which is exactly how I would react. Liked learning more about the magic in this world too. Looking forward to the next!
September 18, 2026
You will want to read Rebellion in the Mist before you read this one.
If you like spicy books with amazing characters this one is for you!
If you like spicy books with amazing characters this one is for you!
August 28, 2026
To say that I was beyond excited to read this book would be an understatement! From the second I finished Rebellion in the Mist I waited very impatiently to meet back up with Ransom, Ness and Sugardrop!
Magic in the Wilds did not disappoint, we got to see our sexy Ransom in his own element and learn more about him.
We reunite with the precious Sugardrop.
We travel with Ness mentally and physically as she grows into herself and into the slow burn love she has for Ransom.
But, but, BUT that cliffhanger!! Nooooooooo, I NEED to know what happens ASAP! Just as our book hubby and FMC practically admit their love — this happens.
I am on pins and needles waiting for the next installment! I cannot wait! I LOVE this series!!
Magic in the Wilds did not disappoint, we got to see our sexy Ransom in his own element and learn more about him.
We reunite with the precious Sugardrop.
We travel with Ness mentally and physically as she grows into herself and into the slow burn love she has for Ransom.
But, but, BUT that cliffhanger!! Nooooooooo, I NEED to know what happens ASAP! Just as our book hubby and FMC practically admit their love — this happens.
I am on pins and needles waiting for the next installment! I cannot wait! I LOVE this series!!
Displaying 1 - 17 of 17 reviews