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Wylde #1
Half Wylde
Win a free print copy of this book!
23 days and 15:43:34
5 copies available
U.S. only
Half-blooded Wren escapes her old life among humans to go live with the fae. After a warm welcome, Wren slowly begins to accept herself for who she is, until she encounters a more sinister court that would rather see the child of their enemy dead.
*****
When an unexpected attack on the nearby village effectively renders Wren homeless, she encounters the wild and frightening Thain, who would take her to the Wyldes: the land of the fae creatures. As a half breed raised among humans, Wren was shunned for her non-human half and taught to fear the fae. Now that she's living among them, she has to face her fears and accept her own heritage in order to live among them. But as the mystery of her parentage begins to unravel, Wren might find herself in more danger than she could have ever imagined.
Book 1 of the Wylde Series
*****
When an unexpected attack on the nearby village effectively renders Wren homeless, she encounters the wild and frightening Thain, who would take her to the Wyldes: the land of the fae creatures. As a half breed raised among humans, Wren was shunned for her non-human half and taught to fear the fae. Now that she's living among them, she has to face her fears and accept her own heritage in order to live among them. But as the mystery of her parentage begins to unravel, Wren might find herself in more danger than she could have ever imagined.
Book 1 of the Wylde Series
ebook
Published October 29, 2019
About the author
Sabrina Blackburry
8 books170 followersSabrina Blackburry is the author of the Enchanted Fates series, which includes Dirty Lying Faeries and Dirty Lying Dragons. She has a love for morally gray characters, fated love with a touch of magic, and passionate women finding their place in the world. When she’s not writing, Sabrina enjoys adding plants to the collection on her front porch, sewing for the local renaissance festival, and hiking. She lives and works with her family in central Missouri.
source: Amazon
source: Amazon
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 42 reviews
March 1, 2026
This book fully pulled me into its world.
The landscapes and magic system are immersive, and each court is carefully developed with its own identity. The author clearly took time building the world, and it shows.
The main character is resilient and easy to connect with, especially in her search for belonging and community. I loved the relationships between the characters, they felt genuine and emotionally grounded.
The Wyldes were vivid and atmospheric, bringing the world to life in a way that felt rich and engaging. A beautifully crafted story with compelling characters, meaningful relationships, and thoughtful world-building.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the ARC.
The landscapes and magic system are immersive, and each court is carefully developed with its own identity. The author clearly took time building the world, and it shows.
The main character is resilient and easy to connect with, especially in her search for belonging and community. I loved the relationships between the characters, they felt genuine and emotionally grounded.
The Wyldes were vivid and atmospheric, bringing the world to life in a way that felt rich and engaging. A beautifully crafted story with compelling characters, meaningful relationships, and thoughtful world-building.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the ARC.
February 22, 2026
This book hit me with such a wonderful first paragraph, it drew me in immediately. I was completely fascinated with Wren, and even more fascinated in the beautiful diversity in the fae. I’ve never been more intrigued by a fae species than in Half Wylde, and despite the faeries being split into classic seasonal courts, I can firmly say that this series has originality. It was marketed as being for the reader’s who have enjoyed Sarah J Maas, and I’m inclined to agree- it definitely belongs on your TBR if you appreciate a strong heroine coming to terms with what makes her unique.
I have to say, I’m hopelessly in love with Schula, she was my favourite character, hands down. Thain is a very very close second though. Each character has their own story, their own personality, which I can appreciate over a cookie-cutter fae where everyone is broody and miserable. The descriptions had me conjuring up the most beautiful creatures in my head, a people full of life, and colour.
I appreciated that we got so much world building- some books leave you guessing as to what is going on, but Half Wylde slowly gave us all the pieces we needed, circling back to points made much earlier in the book until everything clicked into place. Each twist and reveal had me turning my phone over to breathe, and the ending made me desperate for a book two- I pray I don’t have to wait very long! I need more of these characters and I need more of this world. When this book comes out in May 2026, I need my own copy to add to my trophy shelf.
Thank you to NetGalley and Sabrina Blackburry for the ARC opportunity.
I have to say, I’m hopelessly in love with Schula, she was my favourite character, hands down. Thain is a very very close second though. Each character has their own story, their own personality, which I can appreciate over a cookie-cutter fae where everyone is broody and miserable. The descriptions had me conjuring up the most beautiful creatures in my head, a people full of life, and colour.
I appreciated that we got so much world building- some books leave you guessing as to what is going on, but Half Wylde slowly gave us all the pieces we needed, circling back to points made much earlier in the book until everything clicked into place. Each twist and reveal had me turning my phone over to breathe, and the ending made me desperate for a book two- I pray I don’t have to wait very long! I need more of these characters and I need more of this world. When this book comes out in May 2026, I need my own copy to add to my trophy shelf.
Thank you to NetGalley and Sabrina Blackburry for the ARC opportunity.
March 2, 2026
Huge thank you to Edelweiss and W by Wattpad Books for the advanced digital readers copy!
I LOVED HALF WYLDE SO MUCH. This is not an understatement. I haven't devoured a fantasy like this in, honestly, years and wow, I actually didn't want to put it down. I read it in three days. I haven't read a fantasy that fast since 2019, so that's saying something about how truly binge-worthy this book is.
And to get this off the table first: the only reason I chose to give this book a 4/5 as opposed to a 5/5 is because I'm not a huge fan of witches/witchcraft being a main plot point in fantasies I choose to read. It took me by surprise that this book had that element because it wasn't even alluded to in the description, but regardless of this, I'm still very happy I requested this book and had the chance to read it because I really did love it.
NOW ONTO THE GOOD GOOD GOOD STUFF!! Because I know that's what you're all here for!!!!
Right from the get go we're in on the action and it really never slows down. We're introduced to a fantastic group of characters set in a lush high fantasy world that never drags you down with descriptions, but still remains full of life in a way that feels like you've lived there all along.
Truly, as advertised, this is a perfect fantasy for fans of both SJM and Holly Black. The cities the characters visit, and the subtle romance give me that beautiful, enthralling fantasy energy SJM does best, while the magic system and wide-spanning seelie and unseelie creatures fill in that slightly gritty fantasy touch that Holly Black is known for. Half Wylde hits both targets very well.
From start to end Half Wylde is a truly brilliant fantasy. Easy to get into, and even easier to get hooked on. The writing is fast-paced and each twist leads to a new discovery that keeps you longing to know more.
Wren, the FMC, is bright, curiosity-filled and strong without leaning too hard into classic tropes that twenty-something-leads-of-romantasy tend to get stuck in.
The wonderfully slow burn romance finds its lead in Thain--who is the exact type of male romantic lead I could want in a romantasy. Tall, dark and handsome, he is also quietly funny and his longstanding friendship with the main supporting characters is something so deeply Inner Circle-coded. I fell in love with them all immediately.
Suffice to say, rush to add this to your TBR for the spring. Sometimes fantasy feels like a winter read, but as someone who just spent the last three days binge reading this in the warm late winter sun, I can tell you it is the PERFECT springtime into summer fantasy.
I deeply enjoyed reading Half Wylde and I think you will, too!!
Content Rating: A
Sexual content: taking lovers and sex are alluded to in response to side characters and fae tendencies but are never described in any detail; 2 or 3 kisses described later in book
Language content: few uses of sh*t and b*tch but otherwise no swearing at all
I LOVED HALF WYLDE SO MUCH. This is not an understatement. I haven't devoured a fantasy like this in, honestly, years and wow, I actually didn't want to put it down. I read it in three days. I haven't read a fantasy that fast since 2019, so that's saying something about how truly binge-worthy this book is.
And to get this off the table first: the only reason I chose to give this book a 4/5 as opposed to a 5/5 is because I'm not a huge fan of witches/witchcraft being a main plot point in fantasies I choose to read. It took me by surprise that this book had that element because it wasn't even alluded to in the description, but regardless of this, I'm still very happy I requested this book and had the chance to read it because I really did love it.
NOW ONTO THE GOOD GOOD GOOD STUFF!! Because I know that's what you're all here for!!!!
Right from the get go we're in on the action and it really never slows down. We're introduced to a fantastic group of characters set in a lush high fantasy world that never drags you down with descriptions, but still remains full of life in a way that feels like you've lived there all along.
Truly, as advertised, this is a perfect fantasy for fans of both SJM and Holly Black. The cities the characters visit, and the subtle romance give me that beautiful, enthralling fantasy energy SJM does best, while the magic system and wide-spanning seelie and unseelie creatures fill in that slightly gritty fantasy touch that Holly Black is known for. Half Wylde hits both targets very well.
From start to end Half Wylde is a truly brilliant fantasy. Easy to get into, and even easier to get hooked on. The writing is fast-paced and each twist leads to a new discovery that keeps you longing to know more.
Wren, the FMC, is bright, curiosity-filled and strong without leaning too hard into classic tropes that twenty-something-leads-of-romantasy tend to get stuck in.
The wonderfully slow burn romance finds its lead in Thain--who is the exact type of male romantic lead I could want in a romantasy. Tall, dark and handsome, he is also quietly funny and his longstanding friendship with the main supporting characters is something so deeply Inner Circle-coded. I fell in love with them all immediately.
Suffice to say, rush to add this to your TBR for the spring. Sometimes fantasy feels like a winter read, but as someone who just spent the last three days binge reading this in the warm late winter sun, I can tell you it is the PERFECT springtime into summer fantasy.
I deeply enjoyed reading Half Wylde and I think you will, too!!
Content Rating: A
Sexual content: taking lovers and sex are alluded to in response to side characters and fae tendencies but are never described in any detail; 2 or 3 kisses described later in book
Language content: few uses of sh*t and b*tch but otherwise no swearing at all
February 22, 2026
Thank you Net Galley for the e-arc. This was a fun read. I love how in the very beginning you are thrown right into action. It hooks you immediately. I feel like this was a refreshing take on fae. They are different from other fantasy books. The detail in the world building really stands out in this one especially around the courts. courts. Each court feels distinct and not just in name, but in atmosphere, hierarchy, values, and magical identity.
💫 Hidden heritage
💫 Court politics
💫 Fun sidekick 🐦⬛
💫 Found family
💫 Human raised and learning to navigate an unfamiliar world
💫 Hidden heritage
💫 Court politics
💫 Fun sidekick 🐦⬛
💫 Found family
💫 Human raised and learning to navigate an unfamiliar world
February 26, 2026
Here we have our classic story of woman who doesn't know her lineage found by a handsome fae male and the delicious chaos that ensues.
Wren is disliked by her village and when there is an attack decimating it she is forced to flee, leading her right into a nice set of arms who whisks her away to the Wyldes, a found family and plots in the shadows.
There's gorgeous backdrops of scenery in the Wyldes, new food to taste, drinks to drink and frolicking to enjoy. But Wren is led down a mysterious path when she is given bits and pieces to our together about her own family history and the courts that tie it together.
Sprinkled with smoldering eyes, dancing, and interesting side characters you want to spend a solstice with we are taken fully into this story and left wanting more.
A quest must be taken, but what will Wren find along the way?
I wish I could give you all my thoughts but they're too full of spoilers.. Just know that there's many small twists, red herrings and surprised gasps awaiting you in the Wyldes.
Wren is disliked by her village and when there is an attack decimating it she is forced to flee, leading her right into a nice set of arms who whisks her away to the Wyldes, a found family and plots in the shadows.
There's gorgeous backdrops of scenery in the Wyldes, new food to taste, drinks to drink and frolicking to enjoy. But Wren is led down a mysterious path when she is given bits and pieces to our together about her own family history and the courts that tie it together.
Sprinkled with smoldering eyes, dancing, and interesting side characters you want to spend a solstice with we are taken fully into this story and left wanting more.
A quest must be taken, but what will Wren find along the way?
I wish I could give you all my thoughts but they're too full of spoilers.. Just know that there's many small twists, red herrings and surprised gasps awaiting you in the Wyldes.
April 2, 2026
Half Wylde🤩
Half Wylde is the first book in this series and features Wren, a human/fae who lives with the humans. She is rescued by Thain, a fae warrior who is helping the humans when raiders attack their village. This sets Wren on a course of adventure as she leaves the village and Thain encourages her to embark on a journey to the Wyldes.
A fantastic story with characters that are different and glamorous in their own right and world building that is phenomenal😊 I can’t wait to see what happens next and I’m already itching for the next book🙌
Thank you to the publisher and Netgalley for my advanced copy which I willingly leave my honest review for❤️🩹
Half Wylde is the first book in this series and features Wren, a human/fae who lives with the humans. She is rescued by Thain, a fae warrior who is helping the humans when raiders attack their village. This sets Wren on a course of adventure as she leaves the village and Thain encourages her to embark on a journey to the Wyldes.
A fantastic story with characters that are different and glamorous in their own right and world building that is phenomenal😊 I can’t wait to see what happens next and I’m already itching for the next book🙌
Thank you to the publisher and Netgalley for my advanced copy which I willingly leave my honest review for❤️🩹
March 20, 2022
I just read this book on Wattpad😭 Sorry not sorry anyway, I actually genuinely really liked it. Usually Wattpad is just there for the smut but this one had a really good plot and characters. It was a nice short read to get me out of a reading slump and it gave MAJOR ACOTAR vibes. So if you loved ACOTAR as much as I did I suggest you check it out :) This book was not on Goodreads and I just added it so that kind of shows how underrated it is. Go check it out if it sounds good. Can’t wait to read the second one!
February 24, 2026
Wow! What a wild ride 😏
Half Wylde hooked me from the very first sentence — the kind of opening that instantly tells you you’re in capable hands and stepping into something truly special.
At its heart, this is a story about growth, belonging, and reclaiming power. Wren, our FMC, begins as someone who has spent her entire life making herself small to survive in a village that barely tolerates her for being half-fae. Watching her journey into the Wyldes — physically and emotionally — and gradually step into her strength, identity, and heritage was deeply satisfying. Her transformation never feels rushed; it unfolds through hardship, friendship, and hard-won self-discovery.
One of my favorite elements was Wren’s unlikely friendships that form along the way. The bonds feel organic and *earned*, creating a warm emotional core that helps to balance the more dangerous aspects of the world. The cast surrounding her adds humor, loyalty, and heart without overshadowing her personal journey.
The romance is a true slow burn, featuring a deliciously morally gray MMC…beastly, some might even say. While I absolutely loved the tension and the dynamic, I wouldn’t have minded even more development on that front — this clearly feels intentional, so I’m very excited to see how this relationship evolves in future installments.
The vibe leans strongly indie in the best way: bold worldbuilding, unique lore, and a story that isn’t afraid to take its time establishing atmosphere. The courts of the seasons, secret heritage elements, and richly layered Wylde setting create a lush, immersive backdrop. Although the start of the journey at times felt slightly slow in pacing, sticking with it is more than worth it once the story gains momentum.
If you love morally gray characters, found family, hidden identities, and expansive fantasy worlds full of danger and mystery, this book delivers all of that with heart and bite.
For readers who loved Jaga and the Devil, Quicksilver, or One Dark Window, this will absolutely be your kind of story.
Thank you to Sabrina Blackburry and Wattpad WEBTOON Book Group for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Half Wylde hooked me from the very first sentence — the kind of opening that instantly tells you you’re in capable hands and stepping into something truly special.
At its heart, this is a story about growth, belonging, and reclaiming power. Wren, our FMC, begins as someone who has spent her entire life making herself small to survive in a village that barely tolerates her for being half-fae. Watching her journey into the Wyldes — physically and emotionally — and gradually step into her strength, identity, and heritage was deeply satisfying. Her transformation never feels rushed; it unfolds through hardship, friendship, and hard-won self-discovery.
One of my favorite elements was Wren’s unlikely friendships that form along the way. The bonds feel organic and *earned*, creating a warm emotional core that helps to balance the more dangerous aspects of the world. The cast surrounding her adds humor, loyalty, and heart without overshadowing her personal journey.
The romance is a true slow burn, featuring a deliciously morally gray MMC…beastly, some might even say. While I absolutely loved the tension and the dynamic, I wouldn’t have minded even more development on that front — this clearly feels intentional, so I’m very excited to see how this relationship evolves in future installments.
The vibe leans strongly indie in the best way: bold worldbuilding, unique lore, and a story that isn’t afraid to take its time establishing atmosphere. The courts of the seasons, secret heritage elements, and richly layered Wylde setting create a lush, immersive backdrop. Although the start of the journey at times felt slightly slow in pacing, sticking with it is more than worth it once the story gains momentum.
If you love morally gray characters, found family, hidden identities, and expansive fantasy worlds full of danger and mystery, this book delivers all of that with heart and bite.
For readers who loved Jaga and the Devil, Quicksilver, or One Dark Window, this will absolutely be your kind of story.
Thank you to Sabrina Blackburry and Wattpad WEBTOON Book Group for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
March 28, 2026
Thanks Netgalley for the e-arc!
Rating: 3.8/5 (rounded up)
It was fun to follow Wren on her journey of figuring out where she comes from and how that inevitably affects who she'll come to be. The friends she made traveling to the Wyldes, the trust she developed for them and herself, and the feeling we see her have to want to protect it all from the mystery of herself all seemed well-paced and earned (for at least 80% of the book).
My only complaint stemmed from the last 20% where I felt that the even pacing I was used to for the majority of the book was suddenly put on 1.5x speed.
However, this isn't as bad as I may make it sound and didn't ruin my interest to read book two and see where Wren's journey takes her! (Perhaps I missed some reasoning on why here)
Rating: 3.8/5 (rounded up)
It was fun to follow Wren on her journey of figuring out where she comes from and how that inevitably affects who she'll come to be. The friends she made traveling to the Wyldes, the trust she developed for them and herself, and the feeling we see her have to want to protect it all from the mystery of herself all seemed well-paced and earned (for at least 80% of the book).
My only complaint stemmed from the last 20% where I felt that the even pacing I was used to for the majority of the book was suddenly put on 1.5x speed.
However, this isn't as bad as I may make it sound and didn't ruin my interest to read book two and see where Wren's journey takes her! (Perhaps I missed some reasoning on why here)
April 9, 2026
4.5 stars
1 spice
I received this ARC through Netgalley so I wanna say thank you to them, Sabrina Blackburry, and Wattpad Books.
Wow!! I really enjoyed this book! It’s a single POV and follows our FMC Wren who’s a half breed struggling to get her bearings after almost drowning, her village raided, and her adoptive human father killed by raiders. Tolerance for Wren is over and she’s forced to flee from the angered villagers for being half fae along with Mila a witch and Mila’s raven Puko. Mila informs Wren a fae was the one to come out of the Wyldes and was the one who pulled her from the lake where she nearly drowned and slaughtered the raiders. Confused and terrified by this Wren was raised to fear fae she’s got secrets and shame she’d rather no one found out about.
Fate has a different plan and she comes face to face with Thain the fae who rescued her and who is overwhelmed that he’s found a “lost fae”. After a lot of convincing Wren decides to return with Thain and his two friends (Schula & Eberon) to the Autumn Court to speak with their king and to see if she can find her place among the fae.
So many plot twists and turns in this book and it’s got a great slow burn budding friendship between Wren and Thain. It’s refreshing and different and I read this book in a day I just couldn’t stop reading it!
Thank you again to Sabrina for the opportunity to read this book and I’m definitely going to finish the series! Half Wylde comes out 5.26.26 so add it to your TBR today!
1 spice
I received this ARC through Netgalley so I wanna say thank you to them, Sabrina Blackburry, and Wattpad Books.
Wow!! I really enjoyed this book! It’s a single POV and follows our FMC Wren who’s a half breed struggling to get her bearings after almost drowning, her village raided, and her adoptive human father killed by raiders. Tolerance for Wren is over and she’s forced to flee from the angered villagers for being half fae along with Mila a witch and Mila’s raven Puko. Mila informs Wren a fae was the one to come out of the Wyldes and was the one who pulled her from the lake where she nearly drowned and slaughtered the raiders. Confused and terrified by this Wren was raised to fear fae she’s got secrets and shame she’d rather no one found out about.
Fate has a different plan and she comes face to face with Thain the fae who rescued her and who is overwhelmed that he’s found a “lost fae”. After a lot of convincing Wren decides to return with Thain and his two friends (Schula & Eberon) to the Autumn Court to speak with their king and to see if she can find her place among the fae.
So many plot twists and turns in this book and it’s got a great slow burn budding friendship between Wren and Thain. It’s refreshing and different and I read this book in a day I just couldn’t stop reading it!
Thank you again to Sabrina for the opportunity to read this book and I’m definitely going to finish the series! Half Wylde comes out 5.26.26 so add it to your TBR today!
April 13, 2026
⭐⭐⭐.75/5
This book just dove straight into Wern's new reality embracing her inner self. This was my first time exploring a fantasy book about Fae’s and that type of universe and I will say this was a good book to start with. I will warn everyone that there is a lot of information about the Fae’s world and lore that goes with the different courts and individuals Wren meets. I found myself kind of going on and off whether I was hooked onto reading not being able to put the book down or where it felt a bit harder to read through the chapters. I will say slight spoilers once Wern and the other fae’s make their journey for the winter court is when I have been hooked and I believed that this thriller will last until I finish the book. I am on the last 100 pages of the book but couldn’t resist writing my thoughts and feelings about the book. I do feel connections with all the characters that Wren is friends with but wish we could have closer scenes with Thaian. I get how the book is trying to make these two love interest of one another but I feel there should either be more scenes in the beginning together or certain scenes like (spoilers) when Thaian was lacing up Wren dress I would’ve liked it to go into more details about how Wren could have been feeling and such. I will add near the end of the book scenes of the two got more descriptive so that was a plus. Overall this was a highly interesting book and I am excited to read more about Wren's journey and more about this book series when the time comes. On top of my friends who are into fantasy I would definitely be recommending this book to read. *update* I would like to add I feel it’s a little slow burn from the beginning but the last 100 pages is where everything gets so good and addicting!!!
This book just dove straight into Wern's new reality embracing her inner self. This was my first time exploring a fantasy book about Fae’s and that type of universe and I will say this was a good book to start with. I will warn everyone that there is a lot of information about the Fae’s world and lore that goes with the different courts and individuals Wren meets. I found myself kind of going on and off whether I was hooked onto reading not being able to put the book down or where it felt a bit harder to read through the chapters. I will say slight spoilers once Wern and the other fae’s make their journey for the winter court is when I have been hooked and I believed that this thriller will last until I finish the book. I am on the last 100 pages of the book but couldn’t resist writing my thoughts and feelings about the book. I do feel connections with all the characters that Wren is friends with but wish we could have closer scenes with Thaian. I get how the book is trying to make these two love interest of one another but I feel there should either be more scenes in the beginning together or certain scenes like (spoilers) when Thaian was lacing up Wren dress I would’ve liked it to go into more details about how Wren could have been feeling and such. I will add near the end of the book scenes of the two got more descriptive so that was a plus. Overall this was a highly interesting book and I am excited to read more about Wren's journey and more about this book series when the time comes. On top of my friends who are into fantasy I would definitely be recommending this book to read. *update* I would like to add I feel it’s a little slow burn from the beginning but the last 100 pages is where everything gets so good and addicting!!!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 14, 2026
I went into Half Wylde by Sabrina Blackburry completely blind and ended up enjoying it a lot more than I expected.
Wren was really easy to root for. One thing I appreciated about her character is that she doesn’t instantly become fearless or ridiculously powerful. She’s scared, unsure of herself, and still trying to understand her own magic, which made her feel much more believable. Watching her slowly figure things out and grow into herself was one of my favorite parts of the book.
I also really liked the atmosphere of the magical world. It has that enchanting but slightly dangerous feel that makes fantasy so fun to read, and there’s always the sense that things could become unpredictable at any moment.
If you enjoy fantasy, magical worlds, found family dynamics, and heroines discovering where they belong, this is definitely worth checking out. Readers who enjoy books by Sarah J. Maas will probably find a lot to like here.
My only complaint is that now I have to wait for the next book. I definitely made the mistake of reading this before the sequel was out, because now I’m already invested and want to know what happens next.
Sabrina Blackburry definitely gained a new fan with this one, and I’ll be keeping an eye out for the next book in the series.
I received a free ARC of this book, but this review reflects my honest thoughts.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
I was hooked from the very first sentence. There’s no slow build here, you’re thrown right into the action, and it works. That fast start grabbed my attention immediately and kept me invested.
The standout for me was the found family. I genuinely enjoyed this cast. The characters feel real, developed, and easy to connect with. They bring warmth, humor, and loyalty to the story, which balances out the darker and more intense moments without ever taking the focus away from the main character’s journey.
The world-building is also impressive. This take on the fae feels fresh and different compared to what I usually see in fantasy. The courts, especially, are described with enough detail to make them feel alive; beautiful, dangerous, and always interesting.
And the slow-burn romance? Very well done. It’s the kind of steady tension that keeps you turning pages later than you planned.
Overall, Half Wylde was a fast, engaging, and refreshingly unique read. I seriously did not want to put it down. If you enjoy immersive fantasy, strong found family dynamics, detailed world-building, and a slow-burn romance with bite, this is definitely worth adding to your TBR. I can’t wait to continue this series!
Thank you Net Galley for the e-arc.
The standout for me was the found family. I genuinely enjoyed this cast. The characters feel real, developed, and easy to connect with. They bring warmth, humor, and loyalty to the story, which balances out the darker and more intense moments without ever taking the focus away from the main character’s journey.
The world-building is also impressive. This take on the fae feels fresh and different compared to what I usually see in fantasy. The courts, especially, are described with enough detail to make them feel alive; beautiful, dangerous, and always interesting.
And the slow-burn romance? Very well done. It’s the kind of steady tension that keeps you turning pages later than you planned.
Overall, Half Wylde was a fast, engaging, and refreshingly unique read. I seriously did not want to put it down. If you enjoy immersive fantasy, strong found family dynamics, detailed world-building, and a slow-burn romance with bite, this is definitely worth adding to your TBR. I can’t wait to continue this series!
Thank you Net Galley for the e-arc.
April 19, 2026
Half Wylde by Sabrina Blackburry
This was a dramatic adventure through the lands of Wylde and the courts of the Fae. Less the advertised Romantasy and more straight up fantasy, in my opinion. While there were a handful of risqué moments, none of them really happened between Wren, our FMC, and her rescuer, Thain. That being said, I liked both of their personalities and hope to see more of Thain's history covered in future books. He still remains quite the mystery.
The world-building was interesting, but not necessarily unique. There are 4 Fae courts - one for each season. And while the Autumn Court was where our main group of players is from, my personal favorite was the spring court, where several of the more captivating creatures were found. I also would've liked a little more explanation of the magic system and the different types of entities living in the Wyldes and beyond.
3/5 stars. While the romance aspect between star-crossed lovers Wren & Thain wasn't as well developed as I would've liked, the clever plot points and the character dynamics will bring me back for book 2.
Thank you to NetGalley, Sabrina Blackburry, and Wattpad WEBTOON Book Group for the opportunity to read this eARC. All opinions expressed are my own.
This was a dramatic adventure through the lands of Wylde and the courts of the Fae. Less the advertised Romantasy and more straight up fantasy, in my opinion. While there were a handful of risqué moments, none of them really happened between Wren, our FMC, and her rescuer, Thain. That being said, I liked both of their personalities and hope to see more of Thain's history covered in future books. He still remains quite the mystery.
The world-building was interesting, but not necessarily unique. There are 4 Fae courts - one for each season. And while the Autumn Court was where our main group of players is from, my personal favorite was the spring court, where several of the more captivating creatures were found. I also would've liked a little more explanation of the magic system and the different types of entities living in the Wyldes and beyond.
3/5 stars. While the romance aspect between star-crossed lovers Wren & Thain wasn't as well developed as I would've liked, the clever plot points and the character dynamics will bring me back for book 2.
Thank you to NetGalley, Sabrina Blackburry, and Wattpad WEBTOON Book Group for the opportunity to read this eARC. All opinions expressed are my own.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
This book was an absolute delight! From the first paragraph, I was pulled in; after that, I reveled in learning more about the world of Half Wylde. While the most basic tropes of fae are introduced (such as the seasonal Courts), there are several other unique ideas that give this world a fully-fleshed out feeling. Alongside our main character Wren, I grew to hunger for the world-building of the Wyldes and the fae lands, their mysteries and their societal machinations.
Not only was the world meticulously created with lovingly thought-out details, but the characters also pulled at the heartstrings as we delve into the heart of their relationships with each other (whether fully established before the first page or budding within). I couldn't set the book down and am ravenous to explore more once the second book comes out!
Atmospheric and vivid, Half Wylde whisks us away to magical lands full of multi-faceted emotions and actions that it's hard to resist wanting to reside within it too!
Thank you to NetGalley, the author Sabrina Blackburry, and the publisher Wattpad WEBTOON Book Group | W by Wattpad Books for allowing me an eARC to read and review.
Not only was the world meticulously created with lovingly thought-out details, but the characters also pulled at the heartstrings as we delve into the heart of their relationships with each other (whether fully established before the first page or budding within). I couldn't set the book down and am ravenous to explore more once the second book comes out!
Atmospheric and vivid, Half Wylde whisks us away to magical lands full of multi-faceted emotions and actions that it's hard to resist wanting to reside within it too!
Thank you to NetGalley, the author Sabrina Blackburry, and the publisher Wattpad WEBTOON Book Group | W by Wattpad Books for allowing me an eARC to read and review.
February 16, 2026
What works: The setting is a real gem. You can tell the author put a lot of care into making each seasonal court feel distinct, both in how they look and how people behave there. The mystery around Wren’s lineage does a nice job of pulling the story forward and kept me invested.
Characters: The characters shine, especially Schula, who feels like someone I would want to be friends with. I was here for every bit of mischief she wanted to get up to. I did find myself wishing for a bit more background on Eberon and Thain, though what we get hints at some interesting directions later on. There are also a few awkward patches in the dialogue early in the book, but they smooth out as the story goes on.
I especially had a moment of confusion when a character called Cosimo was mentioned around page 300, and couldn't remember, for the life of me, where he'd been mentioned before.
I thought it was a solid, breezy, fantasy with good world-building.
--Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for providing this ARC in exchange for an honest review.--
Characters: The characters shine, especially Schula, who feels like someone I would want to be friends with. I was here for every bit of mischief she wanted to get up to. I did find myself wishing for a bit more background on Eberon and Thain, though what we get hints at some interesting directions later on. There are also a few awkward patches in the dialogue early in the book, but they smooth out as the story goes on.
I especially had a moment of confusion when a character called Cosimo was mentioned around page 300, and couldn't remember, for the life of me, where he'd been mentioned before.
I thought it was a solid, breezy, fantasy with good world-building.
--Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for providing this ARC in exchange for an honest review.--
March 26, 2026
Thank you to Edelweiss for an arc of this book.
Let’s start with what I loved! I enjoyed the world building a lot. It was well thought out and I felt like I was transported right in it. I liked the main group of characters and how much of a found family they were. I especially loved Wren and how strong she was trying to navigate being a half fae. I also enjoyed the court politics and the different court settings. I also loved the friendship between Wren and Schula they were precious to me!
I will admit, it took me a bit to get into this book. It wasn’t until the halfway point where I couldn’t put my kindle down and then I was sucked in! However the pacing on its own was good!
As for the romance, I enjoyed the fact it had a slow burn subplot. I hope the connection is more developed in the next book because I definitely want more of it!
Overall this was a great read with a lot to like! I look forward to seeing what happens next!
Let’s start with what I loved! I enjoyed the world building a lot. It was well thought out and I felt like I was transported right in it. I liked the main group of characters and how much of a found family they were. I especially loved Wren and how strong she was trying to navigate being a half fae. I also enjoyed the court politics and the different court settings. I also loved the friendship between Wren and Schula they were precious to me!
I will admit, it took me a bit to get into this book. It wasn’t until the halfway point where I couldn’t put my kindle down and then I was sucked in! However the pacing on its own was good!
As for the romance, I enjoyed the fact it had a slow burn subplot. I hope the connection is more developed in the next book because I definitely want more of it!
Overall this was a great read with a lot to like! I look forward to seeing what happens next!
March 27, 2026
I received an ARC of Half Wylde by Sabrina Blackburry through NetGalley, and I liked this waaaaay more than I thought I would.
I went into this with pretty neutral expectations, but it pulled me in almost immediately. The world is honestly so beautiful—like, the kind of setting you can see so clearly while you’re reading. The different courts, the magic, the whole vibe… it felt really immersive without being overwhelming.
I also really enjoyed the characters and the found family dynamic. Everything just felt easy to get into, and I found myself actually caring about what was happening way faster than I expected.
My biggest complaint? I wish this book was longer 😭 I wasn’t ready for it to end.
And now I’m in that dangerous place where books 2 and 3 are already out, so obviously I need to read them immediately… but then I’m just going to suffer waiting for the rest of the series.
Overall, this was such a pleasant surprise and I’m fully invested now.
I went into this with pretty neutral expectations, but it pulled me in almost immediately. The world is honestly so beautiful—like, the kind of setting you can see so clearly while you’re reading. The different courts, the magic, the whole vibe… it felt really immersive without being overwhelming.
I also really enjoyed the characters and the found family dynamic. Everything just felt easy to get into, and I found myself actually caring about what was happening way faster than I expected.
My biggest complaint? I wish this book was longer 😭 I wasn’t ready for it to end.
And now I’m in that dangerous place where books 2 and 3 are already out, so obviously I need to read them immediately… but then I’m just going to suffer waiting for the rest of the series.
Overall, this was such a pleasant surprise and I’m fully invested now.
February 24, 2026
Wren has spent her life alone and scorned by the villagers. Her only companions are her adopted father, and the local witch. To everyone else, she is treated as dirt, or worse. Found as an infant, she is believed to be half human, half fae. When her village is attacked, her father is killed, and she is left to die, she is warned by the witch to flee. She ends up meeting a fae, who offers to take her into the Wylde so she can learn about her other half and possibly find out where she belongs. As she travels through Wylde with her new friends, she ends up finding more about her history, and who she really is.
This was a fun read. It is definitely slow burn, with a lot of adventure and action along the way. I am looking forward to reading the next book to see what happens.
Thanks to NetGalley and Wattpad for the opportunity to read this book.
This was a fun read. It is definitely slow burn, with a lot of adventure and action along the way. I am looking forward to reading the next book to see what happens.
Thanks to NetGalley and Wattpad for the opportunity to read this book.
March 4, 2026
thank you NetGalley and Wattpad WEBTOON Book Group for this ARC!
ohhh this was so much fun. i felt all the cozy vibes reading this, it reminded me so much of reading acotar for the first time. the world building was vibrant and the found family and friendships formed were so precious. the bond explored in this book was not a mate bond, it was such a unique concept and i loved it!
i wished we had gotten some more emotional depth from our FMC, because at times, it was hard to understand her actions based on her emotions alone. i also wish there was more buildup / tension / chemistry between the FMC and MMC before feelings were introduced, as it kind of felt like it came out of nowhere based on their previous interactions. however i really enjoyed this and would love to read the rest of the series!
ohhh this was so much fun. i felt all the cozy vibes reading this, it reminded me so much of reading acotar for the first time. the world building was vibrant and the found family and friendships formed were so precious. the bond explored in this book was not a mate bond, it was such a unique concept and i loved it!
i wished we had gotten some more emotional depth from our FMC, because at times, it was hard to understand her actions based on her emotions alone. i also wish there was more buildup / tension / chemistry between the FMC and MMC before feelings were introduced, as it kind of felt like it came out of nowhere based on their previous interactions. however i really enjoyed this and would love to read the rest of the series!
March 5, 2026
Holy moly. I quite literally could not stop reading this book. I stayed up all night just to finish and see what was going to happen. The characters are so diverse and original. I was immediately drawn to the quick attachments and friendships the main group was able to form and their collective character arcs were so satisfying.
Slow burn romance that was very tame, but had me on the edge of my seat during certain scenes waiting to see what would happen. I’m actually very happy with the PG level of spice in this book. I feel like it was tasteful and leaves room for more in later books. Let’s normalize this more!!!
Good villains, an animal sidekick, magic, and lots of good plot movement. Who could ask for more? This is going to be a great multi book series and I am buckled
Slow burn romance that was very tame, but had me on the edge of my seat during certain scenes waiting to see what would happen. I’m actually very happy with the PG level of spice in this book. I feel like it was tasteful and leaves room for more in later books. Let’s normalize this more!!!
Good villains, an animal sidekick, magic, and lots of good plot movement. Who could ask for more? This is going to be a great multi book series and I am buckled
February 18, 2026
3.5/5
I love this cover, it is so pretty and has wonderful vibes.
This was so very whimsical, especially when it came to the creatures. I really do always love me some magical creatures. Never be afraid to include more whimsical lil guys.
This is a political and very lore-driven book. And I really liked that about it. It definitely makes me want to continue the series, I want to see where it goes and how this story and its lore develops and unfolds more.
I liked these characters, but I did find myself getting confused because there were so many of them that felt like they were introduced at once.
Thanks to NetGalley for the e-ARC of this book in exchange for my honest review!
I love this cover, it is so pretty and has wonderful vibes.
This was so very whimsical, especially when it came to the creatures. I really do always love me some magical creatures. Never be afraid to include more whimsical lil guys.
This is a political and very lore-driven book. And I really liked that about it. It definitely makes me want to continue the series, I want to see where it goes and how this story and its lore develops and unfolds more.
I liked these characters, but I did find myself getting confused because there were so many of them that felt like they were introduced at once.
Thanks to NetGalley for the e-ARC of this book in exchange for my honest review!
March 11, 2026
Half Wylde by Sabrina Blackburry is a standout "romantasy" that blends atmospheric world-building with high-stakes magic.
The Good!
Wren’s Journey: Her struggle with her half-fae identity is compelling and grounded.
The Romance: The chemistry with the mysterious Thain delivers excellent fated-mates tension.
Lore: The mythology of the Wyldes is rich, dark, and immersive.
The pacing slows slightly in the middle due to heavy lore-dumping, but the explosive mystery surrounding Wren's heritage keeps the pages turning.
The Good!
Wren’s Journey: Her struggle with her half-fae identity is compelling and grounded.
The Romance: The chemistry with the mysterious Thain delivers excellent fated-mates tension.
Lore: The mythology of the Wyldes is rich, dark, and immersive.
The pacing slows slightly in the middle due to heavy lore-dumping, but the explosive mystery surrounding Wren's heritage keeps the pages turning.
March 29, 2026
The great thing about setting out to do something out of your comfort zone is knowing that you at least tried. Sometimes it doesn’t pay off, but this definitely did for Sabrina Blackburry! You’re not going to find a high level of spice as you would in some of her other books but I don’t think you would be disappointed. It is a wonderful story and I for one cannot wait to see how Wren grows from here. The only thing I’m disappointed in is the cover. If I saw it in stores it wouldn’t catch my eye.
Netgally was nice enough to let me read this ahead of time. As always this is just my opinion and I invite you to form your own.
Netgally was nice enough to let me read this ahead of time. As always this is just my opinion and I invite you to form your own.
February 18, 2026
Half Wylde by Sabrina Blackburry is an interesting and fast paced fantasy which is a must read. The story follows Wren who is a half blood caught between the human world and the fae realm. The story has some interesting world building especially among the seasonal courts of the fae and has a strong theme of identity and belonging. The friendships are heart warming and add a lot of warmth among the tension and mystery of Wren's heritage.
March 25, 2026
thank you to NetGalley for a copy of an arc ! I really liked the book, it so immersive and whimsical. The writing was really vivid and really helped me imagine the kingdom and characters. The characters also were written pretty well. It did take me a while to get into the book, I wish the beginning was a little more intriguing. I also felt like it was a little too long, could’ve been a bit shorter.
April 10, 2026
Thank you NetGallery for approving my request for this book.
I throughly enjoyed it, fast paced, quick easy read that draws you in from the beginning. Wren has just lost the o ly family she knows and is searching for answers about her background in the Wyldes while coming to grips with being courted to choose where she should remain within them. I can’t wait to see where her road leads to next in book 2 and hope it comes out soon.
I throughly enjoyed it, fast paced, quick easy read that draws you in from the beginning. Wren has just lost the o ly family she knows and is searching for answers about her background in the Wyldes while coming to grips with being courted to choose where she should remain within them. I can’t wait to see where her road leads to next in book 2 and hope it comes out soon.
April 12, 2026
I really enjoyed this book. I really liked how the triquetram are not lovers and instead balance each other out. Going into this book I had made assumptions on how the plot would play out and I was wrong on all three assumptions. Which was great because it made the book’s twists and turns much more enjoyable. I’m excited to read more about this magic system and how Wren will navigate her new identity. I will be awaiting the next book and excited to read it.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Huge thanks to NetGalley for letting me read this book.
What drew me in was the world building. I love that the author took time to set up the village and the world within the story.
While it does still carry a wattpad feel to it, the book has been cleaned up some and pacing stays fairly tight to the storyline.
Read this if you want a submersible fantasy world to jump into. It’s the perfect kind of book for that.
What drew me in was the world building. I love that the author took time to set up the village and the world within the story.
While it does still carry a wattpad feel to it, the book has been cleaned up some and pacing stays fairly tight to the storyline.
Read this if you want a submersible fantasy world to jump into. It’s the perfect kind of book for that.
March 18, 2026
Thank you NetGalley for the ARC!
I thoroughly enjoyed this book!! The world building and plot go hand in hand and were done extremely well! The pacing of this book was just right as it seemed there was always a new reveal just around the corner. The mystery to our FMCs lineage and court politics were intriguing and kept me reading for answers. Will definitely read the next book in this series!
I thoroughly enjoyed this book!! The world building and plot go hand in hand and were done extremely well! The pacing of this book was just right as it seemed there was always a new reveal just around the corner. The mystery to our FMCs lineage and court politics were intriguing and kept me reading for answers. Will definitely read the next book in this series!
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