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The Castle of Wishes: Magic and Starlight
Not yet published
Expected 20 Apr 27The Castle of Wishes appears every Leap Day, promising magic and dreams come true. But seventeen-year-old Bianca doesn’t believe in its wish-granting power, not after her brother, Nico, disappeared during its Midnight Ball four years before.
However, when Bianca’s father prohibits her apprenticeship with the most renowned seamstress in the Kingdom of Naples, and instead, arranges her marriage to a man she doesn’t love, Bianca secures an invitation to the Midnight Ball, and like her brother, casts her lot with the enigmatic Magician who hosts the Carnival celebration.
At the Castle, she discovers a world of masquerades and enchantments, where a Wish Quest—a game of five clues—must be solved in order to obtain her wish of finding Nico.
Aided by the exasperating Master of Ceremonies, Bianca embraces this labyrinth of dares wholeheartedly. But yielding to the riddles the Magician requires from her has dark consequences of its own, and the alluring Magician won’t let Bianca go without a fight.
Worst of all, if she doesn't solve her five clues before Leap Day ends, his dangerous games will destroy all Bianca holds dear—including her soul.
However, when Bianca’s father prohibits her apprenticeship with the most renowned seamstress in the Kingdom of Naples, and instead, arranges her marriage to a man she doesn’t love, Bianca secures an invitation to the Midnight Ball, and like her brother, casts her lot with the enigmatic Magician who hosts the Carnival celebration.
At the Castle, she discovers a world of masquerades and enchantments, where a Wish Quest—a game of five clues—must be solved in order to obtain her wish of finding Nico.
Aided by the exasperating Master of Ceremonies, Bianca embraces this labyrinth of dares wholeheartedly. But yielding to the riddles the Magician requires from her has dark consequences of its own, and the alluring Magician won’t let Bianca go without a fight.
Worst of all, if she doesn't solve her five clues before Leap Day ends, his dangerous games will destroy all Bianca holds dear—including her soul.
352 pages, Hardcover
Expected publication April 20, 2027
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Displaying 1 - 16 of 16 reviews
September 14, 2026
Hi everyone!
First, I should mention that this is the first book in the *Castle of Wishes* series.
The first thing that captivated me was the Italian atmosphere that permeates the entire reading experience. Then, there were the characters, who are developed in great depth. And finally, the mysterious writing style—so vivid and enchanting.
Many thanks to the author for the eARC!
This is my honest review!
First, I should mention that this is the first book in the *Castle of Wishes* series.
The first thing that captivated me was the Italian atmosphere that permeates the entire reading experience. Then, there were the characters, who are developed in great depth. And finally, the mysterious writing style—so vivid and enchanting.
Many thanks to the author for the eARC!
This is my honest review!
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
Okay, so this book was SO much fun! The mystery had me constantly guessing, and I loved how we got different perspectives throughout the story. You have the point of view of the castle, little notes in between from a character I will not mention for now , and then Bianca’s point of view as she explores the castle and slowly unravels all of its mysteries. It just kept making me want to know more!
The setting of this book is absolutely gorgeous. The Italian-inspired themes, the atmosphere, the gondolas, the magic… I loved all the little details that brought the world to life.
Also, I’m a girl who loves a love triangle. I know that’s not everyone’s favorite, but Valente and Troy definitely had me going back and forth! And learning everything that happened between them made it so hard to know what to think. It’s honestly very difficult to review this book without spoiling anything, but I’m doing my best!
If you love mystery, fantasy, and romance, this is definitely a book you should pick up. Valente is so mysterious, and from the moment he appeared, I immediately wanted to know more about him. The same goes for Troy!
The only thing I would add is that I feel like the love story could have been developed a little more. I felt like they fell for each other a bit too quickly, and the connections between the characters were sometimes hard to understand. I wish we could have seen more of their relationships develop and had a little more time to understand the feelings between them. It just felt like something was missing when it came to the romance.
But at the heart of this story is a beautiful message: love, hope, and forgiveness can conquer all. They are stronger than bitterness and fear. Even the smallest drop of hope can change everything.
Thank you so much for this ARC copy
Review of advance copy received from Author
This was SUCH a good read!
In the first part of the book, it has this enchanting, otherworldly sort of feel that I've only experienced from a couple of other books. The world-building is light but sufficient, and it's easy to get pulled in. But as you read further, the dark gothic vibes start to shine through, even dipping a toe into horror.
I love that the reader is addressed and invited to play along, receiving our own riddles just like the characters.
Normally, I'm not a fan of love triangles, or I'm at least particular about them. But I'm ok with this one as it actually adds to the mystery and intrigue of the story.
I also really enjoyed how bits of wisdom and truth were sprinkled in, leaving the reader with tidbits to ponder that are much deeper than the story itself.
It's magical, mysterious, and macabre all wrapped in riddles and truth, with characters that you adore, others you distrust, and a couple plot twists to shake things up. One of the twists I figured out early, but it didn't detract from the story at all -- if anything it enhanced it because then the riddles and other events take on deeper meanings.
⚠️ No cursing
🫑 Kisses only
Thanks to the author for the opportunity to ARC read, it was an absolute pleasure!
In the first part of the book, it has this enchanting, otherworldly sort of feel that I've only experienced from a couple of other books. The world-building is light but sufficient, and it's easy to get pulled in. But as you read further, the dark gothic vibes start to shine through, even dipping a toe into horror.
I love that the reader is addressed and invited to play along, receiving our own riddles just like the characters.
Normally, I'm not a fan of love triangles, or I'm at least particular about them. But I'm ok with this one as it actually adds to the mystery and intrigue of the story.
I also really enjoyed how bits of wisdom and truth were sprinkled in, leaving the reader with tidbits to ponder that are much deeper than the story itself.
It's magical, mysterious, and macabre all wrapped in riddles and truth, with characters that you adore, others you distrust, and a couple plot twists to shake things up. One of the twists I figured out early, but it didn't detract from the story at all -- if anything it enhanced it because then the riddles and other events take on deeper meanings.
⚠️ No cursing
🫑 Kisses only
Thanks to the author for the opportunity to ARC read, it was an absolute pleasure!
Review of advance copy received from Author
ARC Read Review!!
The story is set in an old Italian Gothic setting that immediately pulled me in. I loved the atmosphere, the mystery, and the riddles that kept me reading—and thinking about the story even when I wasn’t.
I also really enjoyed how certain things were deliberately kept vague, leaving us guessing and piecing things together along the way. It made the reading experience even more fun because it felt like we were part of the wish quest in a way. It even had me reflecting on my own wishes, dreams, and desires. Lol. The multiple POVs also added an interesting layer to the story and made it even more engaging.
As for the romance, while it wasn’t the main focus, it still managed to make me giddy and kept me invested. Although I do wish we had gotten a little more context and build-up around the relationship—how it bloomed and the dilemmas she faced, etc. I would have loved to see more of that.
But overall, this was such a fun and intriguing read! I loved getting lost in its world, and I’m excited to see what comes next. ✨
Thank you to Melissa for trusting me with an ARC. 💗
The story is set in an old Italian Gothic setting that immediately pulled me in. I loved the atmosphere, the mystery, and the riddles that kept me reading—and thinking about the story even when I wasn’t.
I also really enjoyed how certain things were deliberately kept vague, leaving us guessing and piecing things together along the way. It made the reading experience even more fun because it felt like we were part of the wish quest in a way. It even had me reflecting on my own wishes, dreams, and desires. Lol. The multiple POVs also added an interesting layer to the story and made it even more engaging.
As for the romance, while it wasn’t the main focus, it still managed to make me giddy and kept me invested. Although I do wish we had gotten a little more context and build-up around the relationship—how it bloomed and the dilemmas she faced, etc. I would have loved to see more of that.
But overall, this was such a fun and intriguing read! I loved getting lost in its world, and I’m excited to see what comes next. ✨
Thank you to Melissa for trusting me with an ARC. 💗
Review of advance copy received from Author
OH. MY. WORD. This book….this book will leave you breathless and squealing with utter delight!!! (It will also leave you with near feelings of a heart attack). First: I should note that Caraval by Stephanie Garber is one of the main comps for The Castle of Wishes, & and all-time favorite book of mine, and let me just say: The Castle of Wishes puts Caraval to shame (though no offense AT ALL! I LOVE Caraval, but I’m so happy to have another book that is just as good…maybe better!!). I have much praise for The Castle of Wishes, and all that it holds. It is more than a debut novel, more than a book on a shelf—it is a story of magic, of traveling through the temptations of life and finding our way back home. Beautifully written and delicately crafted, The Castle of Wishes will steal your heart just as it will aim to consume your soul. There is not enough praise to give for a book so eloquently written, and so, I leave you with your thoughts and good opinion to decide for yourself whether you should travel down the road of discovering the magic of The Castle of Wishes. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
August 28, 2026
Melissa Muhlenkamp did an incredible job writing this book, I feel so honored that I got to be a part of her street team!
This book was filled with so much mystery and wonder and all the characters were amazing!!!! The story pulled me in from the beginning and I thoroughly enjoyed everything about the book.
I loved the romance in this no spice book.
The magic in the story was so enthralling and I honestly can’t even put into words how much excitement it filled me with! Never knowing what was going to happen next.
I spent a lot of time wondering what I would do and what choices I would make if I had a chance to enter the castle of wishes what would I wish for🤔 I can only hope that I would make the right choices and trust the right people!
I loved the setting of this story, I thought that everything sounded so wonderful (well mostly everything😏🤪) there were some things that didn’t sound so wonderful 😂
If you love Fantasy, mystery, magic, and Italy then I highly recommend reading this book but if you do be careful which characters you trust❤️🤩
This book was filled with so much mystery and wonder and all the characters were amazing!!!! The story pulled me in from the beginning and I thoroughly enjoyed everything about the book.
I loved the romance in this no spice book.
The magic in the story was so enthralling and I honestly can’t even put into words how much excitement it filled me with! Never knowing what was going to happen next.
I spent a lot of time wondering what I would do and what choices I would make if I had a chance to enter the castle of wishes what would I wish for🤔 I can only hope that I would make the right choices and trust the right people!
I loved the setting of this story, I thought that everything sounded so wonderful (well mostly everything😏🤪) there were some things that didn’t sound so wonderful 😂
If you love Fantasy, mystery, magic, and Italy then I highly recommend reading this book but if you do be careful which characters you trust❤️🤩
Review of advance copy received from Author
Aaahhhh!! There are no words that can accurately describe how incredibly magical this book is!! ... but I shall try nonetheless.
From the 1st page I was immediately drawn in! The words, the vibes and the magic, had me enthralled the ENTIRE time. This book will take you on a journey you didn't even know you needed.
If you had a wish that you knew could come true with a coin and a well, would you make it? What if it took a bit more? Perhaps some riddle solving? Would you take the chance at having your dreams come true?
Castle Of Wishes has imprinted itself in my heart. To me, it was more than just a story. The words hit my soul, resonating with me and reminding me of the power magic holds. This book has easily made it to my favorites list!
I hope you take the chance. The chance of casting your coin. The chance of feeling the magic. The chance of your wishes coming true. The chance to discover more. The chance to dream. The chance to live. The chance to love this book!
From the 1st page I was immediately drawn in! The words, the vibes and the magic, had me enthralled the ENTIRE time. This book will take you on a journey you didn't even know you needed.
If you had a wish that you knew could come true with a coin and a well, would you make it? What if it took a bit more? Perhaps some riddle solving? Would you take the chance at having your dreams come true?
Castle Of Wishes has imprinted itself in my heart. To me, it was more than just a story. The words hit my soul, resonating with me and reminding me of the power magic holds. This book has easily made it to my favorites list!
I hope you take the chance. The chance of casting your coin. The chance of feeling the magic. The chance of your wishes coming true. The chance to discover more. The chance to dream. The chance to live. The chance to love this book!
Review of advance copy received from Author
This YA fantasy is gorgeous! In 1700s Italy on Leap Year’s Eve, Bianca has an opportunity to cast a wish and visit a magical castle. She hopes to discover why her brother and his friend disappeared there four years previously. Her other wish centers on her passion for dressmaking.
The world this author builds is fantastic, especially the “upside down” version of Venice—dark, bloody, and crumbling. The castle is a living entity, unpredictable and dangerous, at times undermining Bianca’s goal to remain clear-headed and focused in her quest. There are riddles to solve and mysterious men who distract and dazzle, so whom to trust? The romance and language are clean. Bianca’s heart is fickle, but I give her a pass because weren’t we all at seventeen? Pure fun here!
I received this pre-release book as an editor, and these are my honest opinions.
The world this author builds is fantastic, especially the “upside down” version of Venice—dark, bloody, and crumbling. The castle is a living entity, unpredictable and dangerous, at times undermining Bianca’s goal to remain clear-headed and focused in her quest. There are riddles to solve and mysterious men who distract and dazzle, so whom to trust? The romance and language are clean. Bianca’s heart is fickle, but I give her a pass because weren’t we all at seventeen? Pure fun here!
I received this pre-release book as an editor, and these are my honest opinions.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Take all the best things from 'Caraval' and 'Night Circus'—but make it late 1700’s Italy.
'Castle of Wishes' is a beautifully whimsical tale that gets a little darker with every twist and turn.
Bianca finds herself at an enchanted castle that can grant her every wish, as long as she’s willing to pay the price. While there, she’s drawn to the mysterious magician, but also finds the familiar face of an old lost friend—pulling her heart in two directions.
I’m not usually a fan of love triangles, but this one was executed excellently, and I found myself loving the personalities of both love interests for different reasons.
This book has all the qualities and magic of a classic fairy tale, with an underlayer of gothic romance, and I am HERE FOR IT.
Melissa Muhlenkamp, you have outdone yourself, and I applaud you for creating such a beautiful piece of literature.
'Castle of Wishes' is a beautifully whimsical tale that gets a little darker with every twist and turn.
Bianca finds herself at an enchanted castle that can grant her every wish, as long as she’s willing to pay the price. While there, she’s drawn to the mysterious magician, but also finds the familiar face of an old lost friend—pulling her heart in two directions.
I’m not usually a fan of love triangles, but this one was executed excellently, and I found myself loving the personalities of both love interests for different reasons.
This book has all the qualities and magic of a classic fairy tale, with an underlayer of gothic romance, and I am HERE FOR IT.
Melissa Muhlenkamp, you have outdone yourself, and I applaud you for creating such a beautiful piece of literature.
Review of advance copy received from Author
✨ARC review✨ Wow. This story captured my attention and enchanted me. If ever there was a story that embodied the phrase “Darling I’m a nightmare dressed like a daydream” it would be this one! The Castle of Wishes is a dark gothic romantasy, leaning slightly into what I would consider horror. A sentient castle, a costly game, a devious magician, and a fight for truth all come together to form a story that draws you in completely and leaves you guessing. I enjoyed this story but I would give the caveat that I recommend it for fans of gothic horror that are 17+. Melissa did a phenomenal job of keeping things vague enough in their descriptions that it’s still appropriate as a YA book, but because of the dark nature of the story I would definitely say it is geared more for upper YA audiences and adults.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Really enjoyed this one! The atmosphere and setting are especially compelling. It's an Italian vibe, which is quite unique for fantasy. Our FMC Bianca can be headstrong, but she always puts family first, which I absolutely love! The Castle is a dark and twisted place, showing that getting something for "nothing" may not be the best idea... Tricks and illusions abound in this carnival-style setting. Characters don't always make the best decisions, but there is still a strong sense of right and wrong, which I appreciated. There is a bit of a love triangle, and the ending is a bit of a "happy for now" that leaves me a teensy bit worried for book 2! I am definitely Team Tory! Would highly recommend!
Genre: fantasy romance (no spice)
ARC (all opinions are my own)
Genre: fantasy romance (no spice)
ARC (all opinions are my own)
Review of advance copy received from Author
August 10, 2026Castle of Wishes is a fun, closed door fantasy with twists and turns that will keep you guessing at every step. I went into the story knowing it had roots in Italy, but I was not prepared for the vivid culture and beauty in Castle of Wishes. The plot captivated me, and I found myself glued to the page. While I personally found one scene a bit too descriptive (ie lack of over garments with only underdress and not remembering how it happened), overall I enjoyed the book. The costumes and dresses sounded so beautiful! I struggled to decide if I should dislike the Magician or if he was just misunderstood. Tory and Bianca are so cute together! That was part of the reason I couldn’t decide between Tory or Valente. Again, I enjoyed the book overall and would recommend!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Wow. This book is incredibly enchanting, immersive, and VERY well written! Definitely has Caraval vibes. I really liked the two main characters and loved their romance! The themes of redemption and forgiveness were such a great part of the story. I appreciated that there was no on page swearing and the romance was clean (it does imply that side characters are involved with each other, but there's nothing explicit.) However, there is a scene that I didn't love as it was very macabre and I just don't enjoy that sort of thing. I also felt that the ending was bittersweet.
Review of advance copy
A massive thank you to Melissa for including me in the ARC team for The Castle of Wishes!
Full review to come but OH MY GOODNESS I finished the book last night and had to sleep on my feelings! Melissa what have you done!!! What a wonderful journey we get to be apart of and if there is more to expand on in Bianca's story 😉 😉 or the world I would not be opposed. I love all the culture fused within the book too! I had to look up quite a few landmarks and language used!
Full review to come but OH MY GOODNESS I finished the book last night and had to sleep on my feelings! Melissa what have you done!!! What a wonderful journey we get to be apart of and if there is more to expand on in Bianca's story 😉 😉 or the world I would not be opposed. I love all the culture fused within the book too! I had to look up quite a few landmarks and language used!
September 4, 2026
If you’re looking for a book with all the gothic atmosphere, high spirited FMC, complicated love triangle with magical consequences, and loads of twists and turns, look no further. I thoroughly enjoyed the setting of this book in particular, and the way legend intertwined with the storyline.
I received an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
I received an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Excellent gothic romantasy. Starts out with such an enticing setting, then as you get into it, you discover the evil undercurrents that give it that gothic feel. Great characters and themes. Beautiful worldbuilding.
Displaying 1 - 16 of 16 reviews