I wasn’t able to get into this one. The characters fell a little flat for me. It felt slow as well. I think a lot of people would like this but it’s not my vibe

<i>’Anything for the family. Always.’</i>

This was a really interesting concept. Rival witch families tucked away in a hidden town in Britain, debts and promises, murder and mysteries, aspects of forbidden romance and both families are potentially the bad guys!

Sadie hasn’t touched her magic, been back to her home town or seen her family in years after she made a bargain with her families rival to save her brother. When she is called back to town to be the defendant lawyer for that same brother she knows she’s going to have to keep her wits about her to keep her magic and avoid the man she bargained away it, and her body, to. The only problem? He’s the accuser in the trail, and avoiding him and not paying her outstanding dept will throw in complications of the heart.

I loved the fact that Sadie had branched out from her family and followed what she wanted rather than the family business in this, and her loyalty to her family (no matter how deserving) is incredible. She was a strong character, and it was great to see her conflict and confusion with regards to her brother, her family, the town and the MMC, Gabriel.
I would have like a bit more reason for Gabriel’s obsession with Sadie, but all in all I loved the conflict between the two.
My main hiccup with this book is very much a ME problem, and likely won’t affect other readers. When a book is sold as a romance (and somewhat fated love) I don’t like reading intimate scenes between the main characters with other people- especially when one of the MC’s is actively perusing the other. Having them then sleep with other people (and as little as a few hours later) really gave me an ick. I’m all for sex positive and the LGBTQ+ representation in this, but I can’t do with the ‘forbidden lovers’ being together and then a few pages later that person is with someone else. Bleh.
Again, it’s a me problem and likely won’t affect a lot of people.

Thank you to Netgalley for an e-copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.

I didnt love this book, but the relationship between Sadie and Gabriel were what I was invested in the most. I really loved that both characters (not just one) fell into the morally grey area. The book takes a bit to get into, with the second half being much quicker paced and exciting.

Thank you the publishment for the e-ARC of this book, the opinion i leave is my own.

Sadly DNF at 50%.

The author has started on a really good way and the plot was interesting: the isolated town, two families. Sounds good?

But the characters is what i didn’t like. Sadie and Gabriel were not vibing with me as characters, and repeated the tropes of a chosen one and a very bad guy. It was definitely not what made them for me attractive at all.

The writing was not perfect either and it hadn’t catched me at all.

A debut work could be the reason why i couldn’t vibe with anything or maybe i just didn’t like the book at all.

I found this book very difficult to enjoy. Just wasn’t the right audience, ultimately. The characters are deeply unlikable, and I’m not sure why we should pull for them or for them to be together.
The magic system feels forced and the overall world building ultimately unsatisfying.

I really wanted to like this book and there are definitely parts of it that I enjoyed but overall the plot was not well conceived and I desired so much more from it.

I enjoyed this read. The magic system and dome were interesting and the family dynamics were definitely unexpected.

# The Twisted Mark
# 8/28/2024 ~ 8/29/2024
# 4.0 / 5.0

Loved the enemies to lovers and rival families storyline. Great world building and character development with plenty of future potential. I look forward to reading the next book!

'A promise made… a magical debt unpaid. This is a fight that could cost Sadie everything.'

ohh man. what does this book NOT have?
-romance
-personal vendetta
-enemies-to-lovers
-rivals
-love interests

This book seems to have it all and is displayed in the perfect flow to not overwhelm or come across as info dump. The characters are complex and intriguing, I enjoyed reading about them and following their lives.

what a book. A fantastic story, which is unlike any other story that I have read before. Full of all the fun stuff that I love. I felt the story could have been written just for me and it left me wanting more.

This book was okay. I struggled with it though, I really just don’t think it was for me. My review is late because it took me so long to get through this book. Somehow it felt so slow and fast at the same time. I needed a bit more of a backstory, I just couldn’t make myself actually care about these characters.

This has been on my tbr for ages and I finally got around to starting it this weekend. I finished it in two nights and downloaded the second novel in the series as soon as I finished.

Thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for providing this e-ARC. I am anticipating reading this soon and reviewing on my socials.

I recently had the pleasure of delving into this book, and I am beyond impressed with the mesmerizing world that the author has crafted. From start to finish, the intricate plot weaves a tapestry of suspense, emotion, and unexpected twists that kept me eagerly turning the pages.

One of the standout features of this book is undoubtedly its characters. Each one is meticulously developed, breathing life into the narrative with their unique personalities, motivations, and flaws. The protagonists are not just names on paper; they are relatable, complex individuals with whom readers can form a genuine connection. The antagonist, too, is not a mere foil but a multi-dimensional force that adds depth to the story. The author's ability to create such well-rounded characters is a testament to their storytelling prowess.

The plot unfolds seamlessly, drawing the reader into a richly layered narrative that expertly balances tension, drama, and moments of poignant reflection. The pacing is impeccable, maintaining a perfect rhythm that keeps the reader engaged without sacrificing the depth of the story. The author skillfully navigates through various plot arcs, interweaving them with finesse to create a cohesive and satisfying whole.

What sets this book apart is its ability to tackle profound themes while maintaining an accessible and engaging narrative. The book seamlessly combines suspense and emotional depth, making it a truly immersive experience. The author's prose is both elegant and evocative, painting vivid imagery that lingers in the reader's mind long after the final page is turned.

As I reached the conclusion, I found myself yearning for more from this talented author. Their ability to craft a gripping plot and bring characters to life is truly commendable. I eagerly anticipate future works and would wholeheartedly recommend this book to any reader who appreciates a masterfully told tale. If you're searching for a book that seamlessly blends captivating characters with a compelling plot, this is a shining example. I can't wait to explore more literary worlds crafted by this exceptional storyteller.

A really great book! I honestly was so engaged the whole way through I was sad to get to the end. Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for a copy of this book.

18 year old witch Sadie Sadler agrees to a night with Gabriel Thornber in order to save her brother, Brendan from having his magic drained. Deciding to wait to call in the full debt, Grabriel only takes haf her magic instead.
Six years later and Gabriel accuses Brendan of murdering his father and Sadie is sent for by her family to prove his innocence. However, are their ulterior motives for Gabriel’s accusation? Is Brendan innocent and does Sadie know her family aswell as she thinks she does?

- This was a promising story that had an interesting progression. However, a lot happened! I felt that at times because so much happened that certain things fell flat, almost as if in-depth details that would have fleshed the story and plot out more were left out in favour of content quantity not quality. I did find the female main character hard to take sometimes, overall she packed a punch but at times she had pick me energy that left me rolling my eyes. However, these are things I can overlook as the overall story is good.
I am looking forward to reading the next instalment to find out what happens next and am intrigued by the overall premise of the novel.

This was a DNF for me.
I'm not sure if I wasn't in the right state of mind to enjoy it, or if it just didn't grab me in the way that I had hoped but I may revisit later!

I think I just prefer more traditional romantasies! I love the world building and mythology but I think I need a ye olde setting.

One of the best books ive read all year. Think of Romeo & Juliet but with witchy vibes. Magical duels, love, family feuds and a morally grey love interest. Everything i love in one book. I cannot wait for the second book. Thank you NetGalley and Sophie Williamson for this ARC Copy.

A Thrilling Yorkshire Journey into the Supernatural - "The Twisted Mark" Review

🔮Tropes:🔮
-Witches
-Hidden society
-Spicy
-Mystery
-Paranormal
-Touch Her & Die
-Burn the World for Her
-Treachery
-Twisted


As a Yorkshire resident, "The Twisted Mark" had me hooked from the very beginning with its vividly depicted setting in the heart of our beloved county. The story follows Sadie, a fiercely witty and no-nonsense female protagonist. Her frankness and the open, relatable way she discusses her personal life feels like you're sharing secrets with a friend.

Sadie pays a high price for her brother, Bren, and this becomes a central point of intrigue. The supernatural world presented in the book is captivating. The author’s portrayal of witches as a product of both humans and demons adds an exciting twist to the narrative, inviting readers into a world teeming with supernatural creatures, including enigmatic vampires.

The question of whether Sadie and Gabriel are fated mates keeps readers on edge, and the mystery surrounding Bren’s allegiance adds complexity to the plot. Sophie Williamson expertly keeps us guessing and glued to the pages as we struggle to unravel the enigma behind Sadie's family secrets.

"The Twisted Mark" is filled with twisted turns and a hint of kink play, bringing a unique flavor to the narrative. The complex dynamics between Sadie and Gabriel add depth to their relationship, with moments of passion and tension making their connection utterly engaging.

As the story unfolds, unexpected developments occur, and readers will find themselves sympathizing, loving, and occasionally cursing the characters. The final pages of the book deliver a heart-pounding conclusion, only to set the stage for a new and thrilling adventure in the sequel.

Sophie Williamson has crafted a story that leaves you craving more. "The Twisted Mark" offers an enthralling mix of humor, romance, suspense, and the supernatural, creating an irresistible journey that fans of the genre won't want to miss. I can't wait to join Sadie on her next adventure.

Thank you for the opportunity to read this amazing book!