Mobster witches when power and loyalty mean everything. Two families vying for control of their magical community. Rivalry and emotions run high with a murder, family secrets and choices.

This alternative modern fantasy world is governed by witch magic with strict laws, what happens when you skirt those rules? Our leading lady, Sadie chose family devotion and owes a debt to Gabriel the heir to the rival witch family. A lot of undertones run amok in the plotline pulling the reader along into deeper water and forces each page to continue to turn. The book has so many things going for it: obsession, passion, family politics and loyalty, trust, honor, feuds, and questioning agency.

It's an entertaining read with a unique take on magic and debt, on family and choices. Sophie is an endearing character doing her best, while the morally grey Gabriel is hot, yet needs to do some changing. Add in a deranged family and community, and you watch as her choices lead to consequences. Spicy level leads the main characters to some intimate scenes, so beware. It was almost a five-star rating, but the ending was a little anticlimactic (or I could be biased).

Wow the way this book hooked me. It started off slow, I wasn't sure if I liked the first person tense but once Sadie was Sadie in the court room, I was all in. I could not put it down.

First, the magic system is playful, simple, and easy to understand, but powerful and, cooly, connected to the earth. I think if I were able to choose a magic, from a book series (you know, to live with and use) it would be this one. Second, I love when a book makes me root for someone but also want to punch them in the face. The characters are wildly imperfect and it made me giddy and frustrated at the same time. Third, the romance is enemies to lovers in a way that is predictable but still had me gasping. They flip-flopped from enemies to lovers to enemies to lovers so much that while its obvious they love each other, I truly don't know what is going to happen with them.

I was so pleasantly surprised by how much I liked this and can't wait for the next one. Thank you to Storm Publishing and NetGalley for an ARC in exchange for my honest review!

This was a refreshing take on a Witchy story and I’m adding book 2 to my TBR right now.

Sadie is a powerful practitioner hiding from her past, not using her powers. After leaving Mannith, her home, 6 years ago, she moved to London where she’s made a life for herself and became a lawyer.

When a night of fun, turns into a message from her family to come out of hiding, return to Mannith, and help her brother who is on trial for murder, she’s faced with a difficult choice. Return home, help her brother, and risk facing what or who she’s been hiding from or stay in hiding and continue to not use her magic.

This book has it all.
- Unique Plot
- Strong FMC
- Family drama
- Enemies to Lovers
- Betrayals

This book was absolutely fantastic! As the first in a series, it started off a bit slow as the author built the world for the characters and provided the backstory to the reader to set the scene for the current book, but once that was done, this book was action packed and I couldn't put it down! The characters were developed beautifully, they were all multifaceted and complex enough that no one was totally good or totally bad, which made the story even more compelling. I loved Sadie and Gabriel individually and loved them even more together and I absolutely cannot wait to read the next book in the series!! This was my first Sophie Williamson book, but it definitely will not be my last.

Loved the magic system, loved the spice. The enemies to lovers was great, tied up in a long time family feud. Really fall in love with the main character Sadie and she is faced with such moral dilemmas; should it really always be ‘everything for the family’?

Thank you to Sophie Williamson and NetGalley for this ARC of The Twisted Mark

Despite being unconvinced that I would enjoy this in the first pages of the book, this was 4/5 stars.

How can you not enjoy good old enemies to lovers, with multitudes of morally gray characters, and its fair share of plot twists?

2.5/5
First of all, thanks to NetGalley and the people at Storm Publishing for allowing me to read this book in advance.
When I read the blurb I was 99% sold on this book. I thought I'd finally found a book that I'd like. But that was precisely what I didn't like about this book. The story has great potential, something different from what's being published recently (every book seems to be about fae while this focussed on witches) however the story didn't seem connected. There wasn't enough backstory for me to care about the characters and their relationships, and everything seemed thrown onto the paper just because. He was obsessed because his mom told him she'd be perfect for him. That's not enough of a backstory for me. I'm sure that if there's going to be a second book, this will be highlighted more. But it's simply not enough for me.
In short: this story has/had potential, and I hope it will be saved from the next book. The author had a great plotline in their head, I just wished the story was delivered better. It was a quick read and pleasant at times.
Once again, thank you for the opportunity given me for reviewing this book early.

This book is INSANE. I loved every moment. The tension between Sadie and Gabriel was *chefs kiss*
I found myself sympathising with the Sadlers and then getting increasingly frustrated with them as the book went on, their lack of concern for Sadie - especially her brother Bren, that plot twist 🤯🤯
But Gabriel.... he started out the absolute baddie, Sadie was literally terrified of him but it just goes to show first impressions and reputations can't always be trusted....
100% 5-star and I cannot wait for the next instalment... the ending left me craving more!!

The Twisted Mark is original, enjoyable, fun, easy read. It's an enemies-to-lovers tale centered around the rivalry between two powerful witch families.

There was true character development throughout the book, and the protagonist was likable. None of the characters were fully "good" or "bad" and the major mystery throughout the book had a satisfying conclusion.

*I received an ARC copy of this book from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.

A thrilling first book in an action packed, sexy romance fantasy book. This a story of family ties, of manipulation, of battling with magical strength and of finding the truth. Twisted Mark has a beautifully twisted story line to entertain and thrill. It can be read as a stand alone, but good news a sequel is due to be published in the near future. Thank you to Storm Publishing and NetGalley for the ARC. The views expressed are all mine, freely given.

Enemies to lovers, rival families, morally gray characters, magic spells and lots of secrets.

Who is the real villain? What are their reasons? It keeps you guessing until everything is revealed.

I really enjoyed te story, the romance was an active part of it but there is definitely more to it.

I am really looking forward to knowing what happens next and where the adventure takes.

Thank you NetGalley and Storm Publishing.

Thank you NetGalley for gifting me a copy of this book.

I am pleasantly surprised! I enjoyed this book and the tensions in it. Sadie was a great main character, with a lovely personnality and set of values.

I wasn't planning on reading the next book but with this ending, I'll need to!

I would also disagree with the "dark fantasy romance" description...

Title: "The Twisted Mark" by Sophie Williamson - A Captivating Blend of Magic and Romance

Rating: ★★★★☆ (4/5)

Quick Review:
"The Twisted Mark" by Sophie Williamson is a delightful novel that successfully combines magic, romance, and well-developed characters. With its interesting magic systems and the enticing enemies-to-lovers trope, this book will appeal to fans of character-driven stories. While the plot could have been further enriched, the overall reading experience is satisfying and engaging. Sophie Williamson's talent for crafting relatable characters and immersive worlds shines through, making this book a worthwhile addition to any fantasy lover's collection. Specifically those looking to be bewitched ;)


Review:
"The Twisted Mark" by Sophie Williamson is a captivating novel that effortlessly weaves together intriguing magic systems and a character-driven narrative. This enchanting tale explores the delicate balance between enemies and lovers, delving into the forbidden romance that emerges when a dark bad boy collides with a protagonist destined for a different path. With its engaging plot and well-developed characters, this book offers a delightful reading experience.

One of the strengths of "The Twisted Mark" lies in its magic systems, which are both fascinating and intricately crafted. Williamson introduces a unique magical world, where the rules are both imaginative and believable. The exploration of these systems adds depth and excitement to the story, making it an enthralling read for fantasy enthusiasts. The author's attention to detail in developing the magic elements is commendable and enhances the overall world-building.

What truly sets this novel apart is its focus on character development. The main characters are intriguing and multi-dimensional, evoking a strong emotional connection with readers. The enemies-to-lovers trope is skillfully executed, providing a tension-filled dynamic that gradually transforms into a passionate and forbidden romance. This aspect adds an alluring layer of complexity to the story, making it compelling and engaging throughout.

Sophie Williamson's writing style is accessible and fluid, making "The Twisted Mark" an easy read. The prose flows smoothly, allowing readers to immerse themselves effortlessly in the narrative. The pacing of the plot is well-balanced, providing a mix of action, romance, and introspection. While the story leans more towards being character-driven than plot-driven, the plot still maintains a strong sense of direction and purpose.

However, the dialogue sometimes felt awkward but nonetheless, the story remains engaging, providing an enjoyable experience from beginning to end.(I.e. I read this all night and didn’t want to put it down)

WHAT A RIDE! This dark fantasy was thrilling! I was sucked in from the very start and constantly shocked with all the turns this story took. It gave me serious Romeo and Juliet vibes that hooked me!

I was drawn in with the Sadler family and rooting for them the entire time. A good family bond will always be your strongest tool.

I connected with Sadie on so many levels. I am also in the legal field and love love love a good defense. The "anything for the family" mindset she has reminded me of my own family. Our families may be nuts, but they are all we have.

Sadie's connection with Gabriel was so strong and very undeniably present. I loved watching their story unfold. The spice between these two...

Overall, I absolutely loved this book! Strong characters, spicey romance, and a little bit of violence :) I can't wait for the second book!

What. A. Rollercoaster. Okay buckle up because this courtroom drama/family feud/magical world/sexy romance is CRACK. It took a minute for me to get into the story as it is told in first person present, but once I was in I WAS IN. Sadie is an amazing independent woman who has made a life of her own away from everything she grew up with and loved. Her family loves each other and the town they rule dearly, almost to the point of insanity. When she returns, what she thought she knew about her life and her family is rocked with murder allegations and her own discoveries now as a full grown women with immense power. The person responsible for literally all of this and the man holding her freedom in his hands is Gabriel. Whooooooo boy Gabriel gives major Rhysand vibes and I will always be sat for that. I loved being in Sadie’s mind, but I would love a POV from Gabriel’s.

Moving on from our main characters to the plot. Part 1 is all set up and backstory, but Part 2 is where it all starts to move and boy does it move. Like Sadie’s bed, it is rocking with every new allegation and discovery both in the courtroom and outside. The plot moves quickly, but its the characters that really stick with you. Revelations of Sadie’s past and present, Gabriel’s involvement, the family feud, the protection of their town, the history of both families just keep coming and you cannot put this story down. Highly recommend and I can’t wait for the sequel!

Moving away from her family 6 years ago, Sadie is a lawyer in London trying to live a normal life. Overspending on everything, going on questionable tinder dates… seems like the average life for someone in their mid twenties! Until she hears from her mother asking her to come home to come to her brother’s rescue…again. Last time she did that, she made a mistake that made her leave town and her family. This time her brother was accused of murdering his rival’s (Gabriel) father. They expect Sadie to be his lawyer. But only one condition…she wants to do it undercover and have no one know it’s her. Once she’s in court, Gabriel knows it’s her and does what he can to get her attention.

I loved Sadie’s character and how she grew throughout the book. She knew right from wrong and was able to stand for what she believed in, whether her family agreed or not.

This is an enemy to lovers kind of book. The perfect amount of fantasy mixed with romance.

I really enjoyed this book. The magical world was really interesting and seamless. The pacing of the story was well done. The ending left me wanting to continue the series and wasn’t predictable. Great writing and character development.

Sadie bargained away her powers to Gabriel to save her brother. Unfortunately, her brother is in trouble again and needs her to come back home to save him. Now she has to face Gabriel again...

Sadie is a terrific character. Love how strong she is. I enjoy the magical background of the book and all the politics involved.

Thanks to the publisher for the arc.

Thanks NetGalley and publishers for the Arc of The twisted mark by Sophie Williamson.

Ohhh so good! The story flows and you get caught up in it. There’s a bit of everything - definitely worthwhile reading.

A perfectly witchy enemies to lovers story, featuring two rival families, a binding deal and a town to protect.

'I've sworn off magic nowadays, but I make an exception for checking up on Tinder dates'.

Synopsis
Our FMC, Sadie Sadler, is happy with her life in London as a lawyer, but there's a fear in the back of her mind about using magic.. using magic could bring Gabriel Thornber right to her.

Six years ago, to save her brother, she entered into an unbreakable deal with Gabriel. The mark still there was her finger, hidden by a ring.

'I was ruined for love the moment that mark appeared on my finger'.

But now she's called back home under a disguise to be her brothers lawyer, who is accused of murdering Gabriel's father. Returning home is a huge risk, will Gabriel see right through her disguise?

As the trial commences, Sadie begins to figure out the true villains in the town, battle with her thoughts about Gabriel and try to stay true to her family loyalty.

Thoughts
Hello Gabriel, although enemies in the first instance, I was so excited to see Sadie and Gabriel's relationship grow - very 'Romeo and Juliet'-esque with the two rival families, but instead of Montagues and Capulets, it's the Sadlers and the Thornbers.

'God help me. He's the worst person I've ever met, and I love him with more force than I could have ever imagined'.

The suspense of Sadie's brothers trial, and the secrets that are exposed along the way keeps you hooked into finding out if her brother really did murder Gabriel's father, or if it was a set-up.

Im so excited to read the next one! 

Thank you to NetGalley and the Publisher for this ARC, this review is voluntary.