A huge thank you to The Nerd Fam and Hazel St. Lewis for gifting me an ARC of Gilded Wicked Mirrors! This captivating New Adult fantasy is a thrilling escape into a world of bargains, betrayal, and magic with a wicked edge.
New Swansea Beckons: A City of Allure and Shadows
We find ourselves whisked away to New Swansea, a city haunted by the echoes of a vampire uprising 700 years past. Whispers of the “Blood Rebellion” linger, but the real danger lurks within the city’s glittering facade. Magic mirrors, scattered throughout, offer wishes in exchange for a sometimes sinister price. The citizens, seeming not to care, continue to make pacts, and our protagonist, Quinn, is about to become one of them.
Quinn: A Ballerina with a Desperate Dream
Driven by an all-consuming passion for ballet, Quinn is willing to risk it all for her “mirror-rite” tradition to secure her dream of joining the Royal Ballet. However, a deadly twist of fate throws her into a heart-pounding mystery alongside the most unexpected partner – her arrogant nemesis, Prince Emrys.
Enemies to Allies (maybe even lovers): A Simmering Tension
Emrys is a complex character, a web of arrogance and hidden scars. With his hidden depths and undeniable charm (think “shadow daddy” with a hint of royalty!), he is everything Quinn despises. Yet, their fierce determination and sardonic wit create an undeniable tension that simmers beneath the surface. As they delve deeper into the city’s secrets, the line between enemies and allies blurs, forcing them to confront their own desires and vulnerabilities.
A World Brimming with Details: From Opulence to Unease
Hazel St. Lewis masterfully crafts a world that comes alive with vivid descriptions. We explore the opulent Gold Quarter, the chilling Ruins District, and the unsettling Trapped Souls Row – each location bursting with detail that transports you right into the story. The world-building is further enriched by the lore surrounding the mirror-gods, their bargains, and the perilous consequences they unleash. This adds a layer of intrigue and danger to the story.
The plot itself is a masterfully woven labyrinth of twists and turns. Just when you think you’ve cracked a clue, another revelation throws you off course. Hazel expertly weaves in mind games and riddles, keeping you guessing until the very last page. Beyond the thrilling plot, Gilded Wicked Mirrors shines a light on neurodiversity. The portrayal of a character’s inner battle with dyslexia offers a refreshing perspective that celebrates the unique strengths of neurodivergent minds. As someone with a dyslexic son, it was heartwarming to see these struggles acknowledged.
A Must-Read for Fantasy Fans
This captivating blend of fantasy, mystery, and enemies-to-lovers romance leaves you wanting more. The cliffhanger ending will have you eagerly awaiting the next installment. If you crave a world brimming with secrets, a heart-pounding mystery, and a touch of forbidden romance, then Gilded Wicked Mirrors is a must-add to your TBR pile!
Want more book recs? Read my last review here!
