Lore of the Wilds 

by Analeigh Sbrana

Stepping Into a Fairytale

From the very first page, I felt like I had been swept into a fairytale. This book didn’t just tell a story, it transported me. I’ve read plenty of fantasy novels, but never one that made me feel so much like the heroine of a magical tale, like a princess trapped in a strange, enchanted town.

I saw a review claiming the writing was horrible... and honestly, I don’t think we read the same book. The prose was vivid and immersive, and despite being written in third person (a POV I usually don’t enjoy), I didn’t even notice it. That’s how seamlessly it was done. Major applause to the author for that.

Characters That Breathe and Burn

The character dynamics work. The romance is a slow burn, with a love triangle that, yes, I’ll say it, actually works. I know some readers feel the trope is outdated, but this one was compelling. With two warrior men both drawn to Lore, fiercely protective and undeniably magnetic, how could it not work? Honestly, I would’ve been right there beside her.

Lore herself is a beautifully crafted heroine, human, grounded, and loyal to the family she’s built in the orphanage she helps run. Though she’s grown, the children are her heart, and she refuses to abandon them, even when danger creeps in. Her courage is quiet but powerful, and I loved that about her.

Then there’s Asher, the guard who falls for his human charge. He’s gentle, devoted, and protective to a fault.

And finally, Finn, my favorite. Grumpy, brilliant, and hopelessly in love with Lore. He gave me butterflies more than once. A girl can dream, right?

For the Dreamers at Heart

If you’re someone who grew up loving Bridge to Terabithia or FernGully, not for the exact plot, but for the feeling they gave you, this book is your grown-up version. It has that same whimsical ache, the magic wrapped in longing and wonder.

In short: This book made me believe again. It wrapped me in a fairytale, and I didn’t want to leave.