What do you think?
Ruinous Fate Saga #1
This Wretched Alchemy
Not yet published
Expected 10 Nov 26BETRAYAL.
In a fractured realm ruled by warring noble Houses and the tyrannical Prime, the most coveted power lies in god-shards - divine fragments that grant extraordinary abilities to those who possess them.
Revel’s brother was murdered in pursuit of one.
A DEADLY GAME.
For avenging him, Revel’s life is on the line. Forced into a treacherous bargain, she must compete in the Call - a bloody contest of heirs vying for the throne - on behalf of her enemies, and assassinate the realm’s most formidable alchemist, the Warbringer.
Victory means her family’s freedom. Failure means death.
A MONSTROUS POWER.
The Prime sets the heirs on a brutal race to find the god-shard that could shift the balance of the realms. Everyone wants the win, but Revel just wants the kill. Except, the Warbringer isn’t the monster she was promised. Bound by secrets of his own, he is as dangerous as he is disarming.
With betrayals mounting and desire warring with duty, Revel must decide who to trust in a game where even the gods have their favorites. This Wretched Alchemy by Tina Mars is a dark, slow-burn enemies-to-lovers romantasy where love and loyalty become the very weapons that could destroy everything.
A LOVE THAT CAN CUT DEEPER THAN ANY BLADE.
In a fractured realm ruled by warring noble Houses and the tyrannical Prime, the most coveted power lies in god-shards - divine fragments that grant extraordinary abilities to those who possess them.
Revel’s brother was murdered in pursuit of one.
A DEADLY GAME.
For avenging him, Revel’s life is on the line. Forced into a treacherous bargain, she must compete in the Call - a bloody contest of heirs vying for the throne - on behalf of her enemies, and assassinate the realm’s most formidable alchemist, the Warbringer.
Victory means her family’s freedom. Failure means death.
A MONSTROUS POWER.
The Prime sets the heirs on a brutal race to find the god-shard that could shift the balance of the realms. Everyone wants the win, but Revel just wants the kill. Except, the Warbringer isn’t the monster she was promised. Bound by secrets of his own, he is as dangerous as he is disarming.
With betrayals mounting and desire warring with duty, Revel must decide who to trust in a game where even the gods have their favorites. This Wretched Alchemy by Tina Mars is a dark, slow-burn enemies-to-lovers romantasy where love and loyalty become the very weapons that could destroy everything.
A LOVE THAT CAN CUT DEEPER THAN ANY BLADE.
400 pages, Hardcover
Expected publication November 10, 2026
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 710 reviews
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Thanks to NetGalley & the publishers for a chance to review this arc!
I don’t have as much time to read this month so I’m deciding to dnf this one at 26%. I can’t remember the last time a book made me feel this incompetent.
It didn’t make sense. Wether it’d be structural, plot wise, world building, sentences, characters… info dumps on top of info dumps to say what exactly? I’m not sure. It was messy & I can’t believe this was edited.
The writing was jarring because some sentences are flowery, some are metaphorical & pretty… and the next sentence has swearing and the word ‘bitch’ is used to describe a mean woman. The fmc’s personality was definitely jarring for everything they were holding against her. She was snarky & testy. Her inner monologues made me want to pull my eyebrows out.
The romance was supposed to be enemies to lovers but it was insta-lust & insta-love.
Honestly, you couldn’t pay me to finish this book but reading is subjective so try at your own risk.
I don’t have as much time to read this month so I’m deciding to dnf this one at 26%. I can’t remember the last time a book made me feel this incompetent.
It didn’t make sense. Wether it’d be structural, plot wise, world building, sentences, characters… info dumps on top of info dumps to say what exactly? I’m not sure. It was messy & I can’t believe this was edited.
The writing was jarring because some sentences are flowery, some are metaphorical & pretty… and the next sentence has swearing and the word ‘bitch’ is used to describe a mean woman. The fmc’s personality was definitely jarring for everything they were holding against her. She was snarky & testy. Her inner monologues made me want to pull my eyebrows out.
The romance was supposed to be enemies to lovers but it was insta-lust & insta-love.
Honestly, you couldn’t pay me to finish this book but reading is subjective so try at your own risk.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Thank you Tina Mars, St. Martin’s Press, and NetGalley for providing this eARC in exchange for an honest review.
I’m a huge Tina Mars fan. I’ve followed her for years, and I thought this was going to be my book of the year. I was so excited to get an early ARC, which honestly makes this even more disappointing.
There was so much potential here. The world-building was genuinely intriguing… from what I could understand of it. Unfortunately, a lot of it just wasn’t explained well. Orphy, her moving, essentially sentient tattoo, was such a cool concept, and I loved it, but the “how” and “why” behind it felt unclear when it was explained towards the end. Same with the shards. They’re central to the plot, and yet I never fully understood them, which pulled me out of the story multiple times. And I’m just going to say it. I’m a literal doctor, I promise I can follow complex concepts. Things were just not explained clearly.
The prose didn’t help the confusion. It leaned very heavily into flowery, metaphorical language, but instead of enhancing the story, it made things unnecessarily confusing. I found myself constantly rereading passages just to understand what was actually being said. At some point, it stopped feeling lyrical and started feeling exhausting. It also resulted in me taking way longer to finish it than it should have. I even read other books in between just to get a break, which I never do.
On top of that, everything felt way too convenient. Plot points just… fell into place. Conflicts resolved too easily, which made the story predictable and stripped it of any real stakes. Also, the stakes of the competition. It’s said that they’re supposed to kill each other but like… that didn’t happen and it’s as if it was totally forgotten that was supposed to be part of the plot. Like MMC could have at least pretended to try to kill FMC at LEAST once or something. ANYTHING.
The pacing and emotional development also fell apart. The romance went from zero to one hundred with absolutely no buildup. True insta-love. One minute there’s tension, and the next she’s talking about love, and I’m sitting there thinking… when did that happen? It’s been three days? It didn’t feel earned, which made the relationship hard to take seriously.
And the emotional whiplash. She hates him, then wants him, then hates him again, sometimes within the same page. It didn’t read as complex or conflicted. It read as inconsistent. Especially for something marketed as enemies-to-lovers… where were the enemies? Yes, she was sent to kill him but immediately she realizes he doesn’t suck and he’s nice to her from the start. A few days of inner turmoil does not equal enemies-to-lovers. And when FMC gets upset at MMC for always lying to her… did he though? He didn’t tell you about one thing. Not that he lied, he just didn’t tell you. Now he’s lied about EVERYTHING? He’s also not the one who killed your brother, a fact which you know. So why are we hating on him for .2 seconds. Idk it just wasn’t making any sense.
And I have to mention that I’m always on the hunt for the most absurdly placed sex scenes and him eating her out on an island that they desperately need to get off before it VANISHES, while she’s disgusting and grimy and literally dirty from being on the road, hasn’t bathed in god knows how long, may take the cake. While they’re also currently being hunted by a group of people in the same house they’re doing this in. And I know mints are his thing but why did he have pop one before eating her out?? Omg. It made me shiver in NOT a good way.
I really wanted to love this. I pushed through because I’m a fan. Truly Tina, I love you. I will forever support you. But it just didn’t land for me. It felt disjointed, confusing, and emotionally unconvincing, especially compared to what it could have been. Feels like it needed a few more drafts. I know this is her first book, and while this one missed the mark for me, I do think she has the potential to become a really strong author because the potential for this story was there
I’m a huge Tina Mars fan. I’ve followed her for years, and I thought this was going to be my book of the year. I was so excited to get an early ARC, which honestly makes this even more disappointing.
There was so much potential here. The world-building was genuinely intriguing… from what I could understand of it. Unfortunately, a lot of it just wasn’t explained well. Orphy, her moving, essentially sentient tattoo, was such a cool concept, and I loved it, but the “how” and “why” behind it felt unclear when it was explained towards the end. Same with the shards. They’re central to the plot, and yet I never fully understood them, which pulled me out of the story multiple times. And I’m just going to say it. I’m a literal doctor, I promise I can follow complex concepts. Things were just not explained clearly.
The prose didn’t help the confusion. It leaned very heavily into flowery, metaphorical language, but instead of enhancing the story, it made things unnecessarily confusing. I found myself constantly rereading passages just to understand what was actually being said. At some point, it stopped feeling lyrical and started feeling exhausting. It also resulted in me taking way longer to finish it than it should have. I even read other books in between just to get a break, which I never do.
On top of that, everything felt way too convenient. Plot points just… fell into place. Conflicts resolved too easily, which made the story predictable and stripped it of any real stakes. Also, the stakes of the competition. It’s said that they’re supposed to kill each other but like… that didn’t happen and it’s as if it was totally forgotten that was supposed to be part of the plot. Like MMC could have at least pretended to try to kill FMC at LEAST once or something. ANYTHING.
The pacing and emotional development also fell apart. The romance went from zero to one hundred with absolutely no buildup. True insta-love. One minute there’s tension, and the next she’s talking about love, and I’m sitting there thinking… when did that happen? It’s been three days? It didn’t feel earned, which made the relationship hard to take seriously.
And the emotional whiplash. She hates him, then wants him, then hates him again, sometimes within the same page. It didn’t read as complex or conflicted. It read as inconsistent. Especially for something marketed as enemies-to-lovers… where were the enemies? Yes, she was sent to kill him but immediately she realizes he doesn’t suck and he’s nice to her from the start. A few days of inner turmoil does not equal enemies-to-lovers. And when FMC gets upset at MMC for always lying to her… did he though? He didn’t tell you about one thing. Not that he lied, he just didn’t tell you. Now he’s lied about EVERYTHING? He’s also not the one who killed your brother, a fact which you know. So why are we hating on him for .2 seconds. Idk it just wasn’t making any sense.
And I have to mention that I’m always on the hunt for the most absurdly placed sex scenes and him eating her out on an island that they desperately need to get off before it VANISHES, while she’s disgusting and grimy and literally dirty from being on the road, hasn’t bathed in god knows how long, may take the cake. While they’re also currently being hunted by a group of people in the same house they’re doing this in. And I know mints are his thing but why did he have pop one before eating her out?? Omg. It made me shiver in NOT a good way.
I really wanted to love this. I pushed through because I’m a fan. Truly Tina, I love you. I will forever support you. But it just didn’t land for me. It felt disjointed, confusing, and emotionally unconvincing, especially compared to what it could have been. Feels like it needed a few more drafts. I know this is her first book, and while this one missed the mark for me, I do think she has the potential to become a really strong author because the potential for this story was there
Read
August 20, 2026A brilliant new romantasy that thrusts us into a world where the wealthy elites rule with a brutal--and magical--fist. From the first page, I was rooting for Revel, the fierce and loyal heroine. But the moment the Warbringer made his entrance, I could not put it down. Filled with action, plot twists, and pulse-pounding romance!
March 10, 2026
4.5★ I’ve been following Tina since before I even started my little Booksta account, so receiving this ARC was beyond exciting. And oh my goodness!! The wait was so worth it!! This could easily be your newest dark romantasy addiction!😍
First of all: REVEL x AXUS. I’m already obsessed. Revel is a morally gray FMC facing one of the realm’s most formidable alchemists. But things are obviously not that simple.
The beginning does throw a lot at you.. major and minor houses, gods, sorceresses, new characters, the nature of alchemy, the Aeos, and all the different places. It took me a little time to adjust and keep track of everything. But once you settle into the world, the story flows so well. From that point on, it completely grips you and pulls you along until the very last page.
And the slow-burn tension? So good!🙂↕️
And Axus… him being territorial from the very first time they met??😮💨 I loved it. Add in the enemies-to-lovers dynamic and morally gray characters, and this turned into an absolute non-stop read.
The magic system was also really creative. The idea of transmutations and the way alchemy works in this world felt fresh and new to me. I also loved the little Japanese cultural touches.. bonsai, Japanese-inspired names, cherry blossoms, and even taking off your shoes (or boots) before entering a house… or, in this case, a temple.😉 And the writing? You would never guess this is her debut novel. Absolutely well done! Every element you could want in a romantasy is here.
But that ending??!
What was that, Tina?! What was that?! You’re so mean!!😭😭
Yeah, Tina… you’ve done it. With that ending, I’m pretty sure everyone is absolutely WRETCHED.🤯
First of all: REVEL x AXUS. I’m already obsessed. Revel is a morally gray FMC facing one of the realm’s most formidable alchemists. But things are obviously not that simple.
The beginning does throw a lot at you.. major and minor houses, gods, sorceresses, new characters, the nature of alchemy, the Aeos, and all the different places. It took me a little time to adjust and keep track of everything. But once you settle into the world, the story flows so well. From that point on, it completely grips you and pulls you along until the very last page.
And the slow-burn tension? So good!🙂↕️
And Axus… him being territorial from the very first time they met??😮💨 I loved it. Add in the enemies-to-lovers dynamic and morally gray characters, and this turned into an absolute non-stop read.
The magic system was also really creative. The idea of transmutations and the way alchemy works in this world felt fresh and new to me. I also loved the little Japanese cultural touches.. bonsai, Japanese-inspired names, cherry blossoms, and even taking off your shoes (or boots) before entering a house… or, in this case, a temple.😉 And the writing? You would never guess this is her debut novel. Absolutely well done! Every element you could want in a romantasy is here.
But that ending??!
What was that, Tina?! What was that?! You’re so mean!!😭😭
Yeah, Tina… you’ve done it. With that ending, I’m pretty sure everyone is absolutely WRETCHED.🤯
Want to Read
February 20, 2026⋆˙⟡ 𝑅𝑒𝒶𝒹𝒾𝓃𝑔 𝓊𝓅𝒹𝒶𝓉𝑒 (4/12/2026): THE BOOK IS READ NOW ON NETGALLEY FOR 72 HOURS! Go support a BIPOC debut author and get this book!💜🖤
⋅˚₊‧ ୨ 𝒫𝓇𝑒-𝓇𝑒𝒶𝒹 (2/20/2026): ୧ ‧₊˚ ⋅ GUESS WHO GOT THE ARC EARLY?! I’m SO eternally grateful to Tina Mars for letting me onto her ARC team for her debut novel so I get to read this EARLY! She was one of the very first people I followed on my Bookstagram account last June and when I found out she was releasing her debut novel, I knew I wanted to read it. Now it’s becoming a reality and I’m so thankful for the opportunity!
(Everyone else will be able to request the ARC in about 2 months on NetGalley—at least on the US NetGalley website—so keep your eyes peeled around April!) Congratulations to everyone else who got the ARC through her ARC team or through the St. Martin’s Press Early Readers influencer program!🎉
Thank you SO much to Tina Mars and Saturday Books for the eARC in exchange for an honest review. This Wretched Alchemy will be officially published on November 10th, 2026!
⋅˚₊‧ ୨ 𝒫𝓇𝑒-𝓇𝑒𝒶𝒹 (2/20/2026): ୧ ‧₊˚ ⋅ GUESS WHO GOT THE ARC EARLY?! I’m SO eternally grateful to Tina Mars for letting me onto her ARC team for her debut novel so I get to read this EARLY! She was one of the very first people I followed on my Bookstagram account last June and when I found out she was releasing her debut novel, I knew I wanted to read it. Now it’s becoming a reality and I’m so thankful for the opportunity!
(Everyone else will be able to request the ARC in about 2 months on NetGalley—at least on the US NetGalley website—so keep your eyes peeled around April!) Congratulations to everyone else who got the ARC through her ARC team or through the St. Martin’s Press Early Readers influencer program!🎉
Thank you SO much to Tina Mars and Saturday Books for the eARC in exchange for an honest review. This Wretched Alchemy will be officially published on November 10th, 2026!
Read
March 6, 2026Thank you so much to Saturday Books, the author, and NetGalley for the eARC.
This one was a huge letdown for me. I was very excited to read this book and so happy to get approved for the eARC.
First, I absolutely loved the idea of it. The worldbuilding mixes gladiators with Japanese folklore creatures and an alchemy based magic system, along with ruling houses, old gods, artifacts, and deadly games to find them. It sounded pretty unique.
But unfortunately I really struggled with the execution.
There are no major spoilers below this point, but some details might affect your reading experience, so continue at your own risk!
I will not be continuing the series. I am happy for everyone who loved it, but this one just was not for me. I thought about DNFing it a couple of times, but I decided to push through and give it a fair chance.
This one was a huge letdown for me. I was very excited to read this book and so happy to get approved for the eARC.
First, I absolutely loved the idea of it. The worldbuilding mixes gladiators with Japanese folklore creatures and an alchemy based magic system, along with ruling houses, old gods, artifacts, and deadly games to find them. It sounded pretty unique.
But unfortunately I really struggled with the execution.
There are no major spoilers below this point, but some details might affect your reading experience, so continue at your own risk!
I will not be continuing the series. I am happy for everyone who loved it, but this one just was not for me. I thought about DNFing it a couple of times, but I decided to push through and give it a fair chance.
Read
March 7, 2026Thank you to Saturday Books, the author and NetGalley for the eARC.
I need to see a Dr after the amount of whiplash I got from this book. I love him, no I hate him, no I love him but now I hate him. Pick a lane!!
I’ve never been so infuriated and confused by a book before. The FMC is all over the place. One second she hates herself for one mistake she made one time as a kid and the next she is fighting for the kingdom and her task. But it’s back and forth the whole time. She can’t decide if she wants to be strong or weak and annoying.
The plot is all over the place and I found myself forgetting what the whole point of the book was at about 40%. There were too many unnecessary side quests that really didn’t add anything to the story or to the characters development. Yes, the whole 1 cave scene wasn’t needed.
There was 0 tension other than hating each other between the MMC and FMC. And when they finally tried to do it? Best cock block I’ve ever read. I really didn’t need to read them doing it. But don’t worry, in the middle of the most important moment they decide to try again. Covered in days of travel and sweat and grime and blood while also trying to not be hunted and killed. Perfect timing guys.
I found a new ick: breathmints. The MMC is popping them like candy every 5 pages and there’s a moment where he eats one and then eats her. Sorry but that would probably burn a bit.
I should have DNF’d but I pushed through and I’m never getting that time back. There was promise but it needed many MANY more rounds of edits before it was ready.
I need to see a Dr after the amount of whiplash I got from this book. I love him, no I hate him, no I love him but now I hate him. Pick a lane!!
I’ve never been so infuriated and confused by a book before. The FMC is all over the place. One second she hates herself for one mistake she made one time as a kid and the next she is fighting for the kingdom and her task. But it’s back and forth the whole time. She can’t decide if she wants to be strong or weak and annoying.
The plot is all over the place and I found myself forgetting what the whole point of the book was at about 40%. There were too many unnecessary side quests that really didn’t add anything to the story or to the characters development. Yes, the whole 1 cave scene wasn’t needed.
There was 0 tension other than hating each other between the MMC and FMC. And when they finally tried to do it? Best cock block I’ve ever read. I really didn’t need to read them doing it. But don’t worry, in the middle of the most important moment they decide to try again. Covered in days of travel and sweat and grime and blood while also trying to not be hunted and killed. Perfect timing guys.
I found a new ick: breathmints. The MMC is popping them like candy every 5 pages and there’s a moment where he eats one and then eats her. Sorry but that would probably burn a bit.
I should have DNF’d but I pushed through and I’m never getting that time back. There was promise but it needed many MANY more rounds of edits before it was ready.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Did Not Finish
July 13, 2026Thank you to NetGalley & Saturday Books for this arc read.
DNF 19%
Got this arc back in April & I just can’t keep going back to it anymore.
This premise has the ideal romantasy setup + it’s only a duology + it’s Tina effing Mars’ debut! Perfect combination. But wow am I disappointed.
My biggest issue is how messy this is. I am a bit appalled that this is about to be a traditionally published book. There is a very obvious lack of structure to the story. The info dumping was incorporated in large chunks. The pacing is both slow but at the same time jumping all over the place. What is this world building? It’s so hard to follow along because nothing is really clear; it’s just overly worded verbiage until I got a headache instead of a better understanding. The plot is both everywhere & yet nowhere in site. I read almost a quarter of the book & I can’t even tell you what’s going on because nothing is really happening.
The FMC feels a bit boring as a lead too. & her inner dialogue is basically run on sentences. I’m throwing in the towel & we’re only just getting a whiff of the MMC, so I can’t even say anything really about him.
But this planned trilogy does have so much potential. I’m sure readers will love the alchemy lore. It’s really beautiful how much the author loves Japanese mythology & drew inspiration from her identity into the FMC & the world. This will be a major hit amongst romantasy lovers who aren't nitpicky like myself🥲
DNF 19%
Got this arc back in April & I just can’t keep going back to it anymore.
This premise has the ideal romantasy setup + it’s only a duology + it’s Tina effing Mars’ debut! Perfect combination. But wow am I disappointed.
My biggest issue is how messy this is. I am a bit appalled that this is about to be a traditionally published book. There is a very obvious lack of structure to the story. The info dumping was incorporated in large chunks. The pacing is both slow but at the same time jumping all over the place. What is this world building? It’s so hard to follow along because nothing is really clear; it’s just overly worded verbiage until I got a headache instead of a better understanding. The plot is both everywhere & yet nowhere in site. I read almost a quarter of the book & I can’t even tell you what’s going on because nothing is really happening.
The FMC feels a bit boring as a lead too. & her inner dialogue is basically run on sentences. I’m throwing in the towel & we’re only just getting a whiff of the MMC, so I can’t even say anything really about him.
But this planned trilogy does have so much potential. I’m sure readers will love the alchemy lore. It’s really beautiful how much the author loves Japanese mythology & drew inspiration from her identity into the FMC & the world. This will be a major hit amongst romantasy lovers who aren't nitpicky like myself🥲
Did Not Finish
June 3, 2026DNF @13%
Unfortunately, I have zero interest in continuing. The writing is good but there's something about it that's not doing it for me idk. I'm getting the vibes that I won't like this book (I really was excited to read TWA!!) so I'd rather stop here rather than force myself to continue😅
Thank you Saturday Books for the eARC in exchange for an honest review.
Unfortunately, I have zero interest in continuing. The writing is good but there's something about it that's not doing it for me idk. I'm getting the vibes that I won't like this book (I really was excited to read TWA!!) so I'd rather stop here rather than force myself to continue😅
Thank you Saturday Books for the eARC in exchange for an honest review.
December 10, 2025
MASTERPIECE
formal rtc
formal rtc
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
DNF AT 55%! Thank you Netgalley for this arc! First of all NO HATE TO THE AUTHOR!!! I see what she was trying to do, and her writing does have a lot of potential, but unfortunately this wasn’t for me.
If I could take away stars from a book, I would. This book is a black whole of misery and depression. It made me question if I even liked reading. I debated getting rid of all my books. I never wanted to pick up a book ever again, and after taking a break for a week I have decided I can never read a single word off of these pages or I will cease to exist. I am absolutely FLABBERGASTED that this book had so much potential, but is somehow one of the worst things I have ever laid my eyes on.
There really was so much potential, okay, and it was so poorly done that it made me sad. It needs five more rounds of editing. It was repetitive and just no. It’s marketed as enemies to lovers yet they literally want to special hug five minutes after meeting each other. All the characters were supposed to be closed off yet after talking to each other for one second they’d spill their childhood trauma??? WHY?! It’s so stupid and it just makes me so so mad. I’ve been in a slump for DAYS because of this stupid book.
The only people who can love this book are middle aged women who like shadow daddies. And even then this isn’t good. If I was a middle aged woman with three children and two divorces I would STILL hate this book.
The magic system was interesting, the world was too, but it was just so poorly done. You couldn’t pay me a million dollars to finish this book. I wanted to gouge my eyes out it was so cringy. I’m finally coming out of a mini depressive episode and I think this book was part of the problem. I feel ten pounds lighter now that I’ve DNFED it.
If you loved this book I love that for you. I genuinely do. And I wish the author the best. This unfortunately just wasn’t for me.
If I could take away stars from a book, I would. This book is a black whole of misery and depression. It made me question if I even liked reading. I debated getting rid of all my books. I never wanted to pick up a book ever again, and after taking a break for a week I have decided I can never read a single word off of these pages or I will cease to exist. I am absolutely FLABBERGASTED that this book had so much potential, but is somehow one of the worst things I have ever laid my eyes on.
There really was so much potential, okay, and it was so poorly done that it made me sad. It needs five more rounds of editing. It was repetitive and just no. It’s marketed as enemies to lovers yet they literally want to special hug five minutes after meeting each other. All the characters were supposed to be closed off yet after talking to each other for one second they’d spill their childhood trauma??? WHY?! It’s so stupid and it just makes me so so mad. I’ve been in a slump for DAYS because of this stupid book.
The only people who can love this book are middle aged women who like shadow daddies. And even then this isn’t good. If I was a middle aged woman with three children and two divorces I would STILL hate this book.
The magic system was interesting, the world was too, but it was just so poorly done. You couldn’t pay me a million dollars to finish this book. I wanted to gouge my eyes out it was so cringy. I’m finally coming out of a mini depressive episode and I think this book was part of the problem. I feel ten pounds lighter now that I’ve DNFED it.
If you loved this book I love that for you. I genuinely do. And I wish the author the best. This unfortunately just wasn’t for me.
April 17, 2026
⭐️3.85
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
This is my very first ARCH read and review eeeeeek! I got it right before Ramadan and couldn't read it until it was over, and then literally last 2 hours before it expired, I was like ok lets do this and lemme say SOOOO WORTH IT.
It was so so so so so so good, especially THAT ENDING DIABOLICAL TINAAAAA AAAAK I was gagged. I loved how much it was eldest daughter core, I just felt like certain plotlines or parts could've had more depth, and at times the fmc did feel a tad one-track mind for my taste, but I lovedddd her regardless. And the MMC was everythingg…. I'm gagged. I don’t use that word usually, but here I was truly gagged.
I can't wait for the next one. I hope it gives revenge era, WOMAN IN POWER, BADDEST BICH ENERGY, MEN GROVELING ERA EEEEK !!
Thank you SOOOOOOO much to Tina Mars and NetGalley for the advanced eARC in exchange for an honest review. This Wretched Alchemy will officially be published on November 10th, 2026!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
This is my very first ARCH read and review eeeeeek! I got it right before Ramadan and couldn't read it until it was over, and then literally last 2 hours before it expired, I was like ok lets do this and lemme say SOOOO WORTH IT.
It was so so so so so so good, especially THAT ENDING DIABOLICAL TINAAAAA AAAAK I was gagged. I loved how much it was eldest daughter core, I just felt like certain plotlines or parts could've had more depth, and at times the fmc did feel a tad one-track mind for my taste, but I lovedddd her regardless. And the MMC was everythingg…. I'm gagged. I don’t use that word usually, but here I was truly gagged.
I can't wait for the next one. I hope it gives revenge era, WOMAN IN POWER, BADDEST BICH ENERGY, MEN GROVELING ERA EEEEK !!
Thank you SOOOOOOO much to Tina Mars and NetGalley for the advanced eARC in exchange for an honest review. This Wretched Alchemy will officially be published on November 10th, 2026!
April 21, 2026
“I feel a lot of things for you, Nightmare. But hate isn’t one of them. What I feel for you is much, much worse.”
Well dang, Tiiiina! That cliffhanger.
THAT.
CLIFFHANGER. 😱
This book needs to come with a warning label… “WARNING: You WILL fall head over sword in love with the villain. You WILL go on an adventure with a rag tag group of people that are ALL morally grey and betrayals are around every corner. AND you WILL be hanging off a WILD cliffhanger by the end, SCREAMING FOR YOUR LIFE.”
“You are my torture. My nightmare.”
Tina Mars is a beautiful genius and I truly couldn’t have loved this book more if I tried. Fantasy books are always a different bread of reading/writing. So much planning has to go into the world building for it to truly capture the readers within the first couple of chapters. Tina managed to not only capture me, but I was a willing prisoner to this book from start to finish. The world was SO carefully crafted and SO unique!
“I don’t fear you. Far from it.” I didn’t take my eyes off his as my tongue darted out, wetting my lips. “What if—” I swallowed. “—I want the monster?”
Our FMC, Revel Wyn, was a complete knockout. She’s fierce, broken, and willing to do whatever it takes to make up for the mistakes in her past. Including sacrificing her safety for that of her sister and mother. My heart broke for her. I found her character to be immensely relatable. She just wants to be enough and someone’s priority.
“Lie again and I’ll have you screaming your truths.”
When someone finally takes notice of her, and tries to care for her, she literally doesn’t know how to accept it. (Especially when it comes from the hands of the man she’s supposed to end.)
“There are no gods here to save you. The only name on your lips will be mine.” 🤭❤️🔥
There are so many twists and turns in this story. I was clutching my kindle and screaming, over and over again! The BETRAYALS. Ohmylanta, I just didn’t see nearly any of it coming.
“I would have let you.” My voice cracked. “I would have let you ruin me, Axus.”
I will just be here, DYING inside until book 2 comes out! Tina Mars is definitely a breakout author you NEED to add to your TBR! Romantasy lovers, this one is for you!
Tropes:
❤️🔥 Enemies to Lovers
🗡️ She’s On A Mission to ☠️ Him
🗺️ A Quest & Dangerous Creatures
👊🏼 Fierce FMC
🫠 “Let me worship you.”
🥵 “Eyes on me, Nightmare.”
💔 Plot Twist(sss) & Betrayals
😱 Cliffhanger That Will Leave You SCREAMING
❤️🩹 Tortured Hero & Heroine
🔥 Slowww Burn + Spice
Well dang, Tiiiina! That cliffhanger.
THAT.
CLIFFHANGER. 😱
This book needs to come with a warning label… “WARNING: You WILL fall head over sword in love with the villain. You WILL go on an adventure with a rag tag group of people that are ALL morally grey and betrayals are around every corner. AND you WILL be hanging off a WILD cliffhanger by the end, SCREAMING FOR YOUR LIFE.”
“You are my torture. My nightmare.”
Tina Mars is a beautiful genius and I truly couldn’t have loved this book more if I tried. Fantasy books are always a different bread of reading/writing. So much planning has to go into the world building for it to truly capture the readers within the first couple of chapters. Tina managed to not only capture me, but I was a willing prisoner to this book from start to finish. The world was SO carefully crafted and SO unique!
“I don’t fear you. Far from it.” I didn’t take my eyes off his as my tongue darted out, wetting my lips. “What if—” I swallowed. “—I want the monster?”
Our FMC, Revel Wyn, was a complete knockout. She’s fierce, broken, and willing to do whatever it takes to make up for the mistakes in her past. Including sacrificing her safety for that of her sister and mother. My heart broke for her. I found her character to be immensely relatable. She just wants to be enough and someone’s priority.
“Lie again and I’ll have you screaming your truths.”
When someone finally takes notice of her, and tries to care for her, she literally doesn’t know how to accept it. (Especially when it comes from the hands of the man she’s supposed to end.)
“There are no gods here to save you. The only name on your lips will be mine.” 🤭❤️🔥
There are so many twists and turns in this story. I was clutching my kindle and screaming, over and over again! The BETRAYALS. Ohmylanta, I just didn’t see nearly any of it coming.
“I would have let you.” My voice cracked. “I would have let you ruin me, Axus.”
I will just be here, DYING inside until book 2 comes out! Tina Mars is definitely a breakout author you NEED to add to your TBR! Romantasy lovers, this one is for you!
Tropes:
❤️🔥 Enemies to Lovers
🗡️ She’s On A Mission to ☠️ Him
🗺️ A Quest & Dangerous Creatures
👊🏼 Fierce FMC
🫠 “Let me worship you.”
🥵 “Eyes on me, Nightmare.”
💔 Plot Twist(sss) & Betrayals
😱 Cliffhanger That Will Leave You SCREAMING
❤️🩹 Tortured Hero & Heroine
🔥 Slowww Burn + Spice
August 31, 2026
Format: 📱 & 📖 & 🎧
Spice: 🫑
Series: Book 1 of ?? - The Ruinous Fate Saga
Woweeeee! Tina did that! 👏🏼 It’s crazy that this is a DEBUT??
I’ve been following Tina Mars’ journey to writing her first novel from the first stages of starting her author journey, to securing an agent, querying, and her ✨vague publishing news✨ shortly thereafter. I’m so proud of all she has accomplished and how quickly!! This is definitely going to hit the lists on release week. Such a great fantasy romance debut!
Revel gave me so much of what I look for in an FMC: feminine rage, eldest daughter trauma, black sheep syndrome, and honestly she’s a female Prince Zuko. I rooted for her, yelled at the book when she made poor decisions (note to self, don’t do that when the pets are laying on you - they don’t like loud sudden noises out of nowhere), and swooned when she swooned because we love a toxic love interest.
If you want a fantasy with a great slow burn, yearning romance subplot- please either preorder now or pick this up on release day. It’s both a slump buster, and a slump CAUSE-er so strap in, friend. If you loved Fullmetal Alchemist (Brotherhood obviously) and the crazy family dynamics of both the Fire Nation of Avatar and the Elric Brothers tragic backstory, then this 👏🏼 is 👏🏼 your 👏🏼 book 👏🏼
The Audio: dual narration - Jennifer Ikeda & Soneela Nankani; the audio was fantastic! Good pacing, lots of varied tones, and I was able to listen without speeding up to chipmunk speed! 👏🏼
Notable tropes & themes —
🌔 deadly competition of rival House heirs
⚔️ she was sent to 🗡️ him
⛓️💥 enemies to lovers (but worse than enemies)
♦️ morally gray everyone
🌔 Gladiator meets Fullmetal Alchemist
⚔️ he yearns
⛓️💥 sentient, living tattoo
♦️ god magic & alchemy
🌔 tortured antihero
⚔️ 26 year old eldest daughter FMC
⛓️💥 feminine rage
♦️ hidden identity
I received this eARC and physical ARC from St. Martin's Press | Saturday Books and the ALC from Macmillan Audio as an opportunity to read, listen, and give my honest review.
Spice: 🫑
Series: Book 1 of ?? - The Ruinous Fate Saga
Woweeeee! Tina did that! 👏🏼 It’s crazy that this is a DEBUT??
I’ve been following Tina Mars’ journey to writing her first novel from the first stages of starting her author journey, to securing an agent, querying, and her ✨vague publishing news✨ shortly thereafter. I’m so proud of all she has accomplished and how quickly!! This is definitely going to hit the lists on release week. Such a great fantasy romance debut!
Revel gave me so much of what I look for in an FMC: feminine rage, eldest daughter trauma, black sheep syndrome, and honestly she’s a female Prince Zuko. I rooted for her, yelled at the book when she made poor decisions (note to self, don’t do that when the pets are laying on you - they don’t like loud sudden noises out of nowhere), and swooned when she swooned because we love a toxic love interest.
If you want a fantasy with a great slow burn, yearning romance subplot- please either preorder now or pick this up on release day. It’s both a slump buster, and a slump CAUSE-er so strap in, friend. If you loved Fullmetal Alchemist (Brotherhood obviously) and the crazy family dynamics of both the Fire Nation of Avatar and the Elric Brothers tragic backstory, then this 👏🏼 is 👏🏼 your 👏🏼 book 👏🏼
The Audio: dual narration - Jennifer Ikeda & Soneela Nankani; the audio was fantastic! Good pacing, lots of varied tones, and I was able to listen without speeding up to chipmunk speed! 👏🏼
Notable tropes & themes —
🌔 deadly competition of rival House heirs
⚔️ she was sent to 🗡️ him
⛓️💥 enemies to lovers (but worse than enemies)
♦️ morally gray everyone
🌔 Gladiator meets Fullmetal Alchemist
⚔️ he yearns
⛓️💥 sentient, living tattoo
♦️ god magic & alchemy
🌔 tortured antihero
⚔️ 26 year old eldest daughter FMC
⛓️💥 feminine rage
♦️ hidden identity
I received this eARC and physical ARC from St. Martin's Press | Saturday Books and the ALC from Macmillan Audio as an opportunity to read, listen, and give my honest review.
September 6, 2026
Thank you to Macmillan Audio for the ALC and St. Martin Press and author Tina Mars, for providing me with the eARC of “This Wretched Alchemy”.
Another amazing book meant for immersive reading!! Jennifer and Soneela did an amazing job with the narration. I was engaged and sucked in while following along with my eyes.
💭My Thoughts
Revel really said I could kill him and THEN.... I just loved this book. She's supposed to hate Axus but the more they are forced together the better it gets for us readers. The tension between these two are high. I was screaming every time there was an interruption.
While the world building isn't huge in this fantasy, it brings your different creatures including a Wyvern and I cannot wait to see how our flying friends will come into play in book 2. That's my guess, with how Revel is able to interact with them.
Axus definitely has some demons but the way he protected Revel while they are racing to find the shard. I was here for every moment of his "don't touch her" attitude.
And what a cliffhanger for an ending. I am here and not patiently waiting for book 2.
❣️Tropes❣️
Fantasy
Enemies to Lovers
Forced Proximity
Slow Burn
Quote Poetry to Each Other
Wyvern
🩵RATING🩵
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
Spice Level: 🌶️
Length: 400 Pages
Publisher: St. Martin Press
🎧Duet Narration 15h 45m at 2x
🎙️Jennifer Ikeda and Soneela Nankani
Narration Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Publisher: Macmillan Audio
Listened via Netgalley
Another amazing book meant for immersive reading!! Jennifer and Soneela did an amazing job with the narration. I was engaged and sucked in while following along with my eyes.
💭My Thoughts
Revel really said I could kill him and THEN.... I just loved this book. She's supposed to hate Axus but the more they are forced together the better it gets for us readers. The tension between these two are high. I was screaming every time there was an interruption.
While the world building isn't huge in this fantasy, it brings your different creatures including a Wyvern and I cannot wait to see how our flying friends will come into play in book 2. That's my guess, with how Revel is able to interact with them.
Axus definitely has some demons but the way he protected Revel while they are racing to find the shard. I was here for every moment of his "don't touch her" attitude.
And what a cliffhanger for an ending. I am here and not patiently waiting for book 2.
❣️Tropes❣️
Fantasy
Enemies to Lovers
Forced Proximity
Slow Burn
Quote Poetry to Each Other
Wyvern
🩵RATING🩵
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
Spice Level: 🌶️
Length: 400 Pages
Publisher: St. Martin Press
🎧Duet Narration 15h 45m at 2x
🎙️Jennifer Ikeda and Soneela Nankani
Narration Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Publisher: Macmillan Audio
Listened via Netgalley
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
2 Stars ✨
Unfortunately, this didn’t work for me. It’s like all the ideas and elements were there, but the execution missed the mark. This isn’t a slow burn either, it was insta-lust with a side of whip-lash. The magical system was confusing. I found myself struggling to get through this book. Even when I was finished with the book, I was confused about the world building and character developments. I had high hopes for this book, so I’m disappointed 😔
Thank you NetGalley for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Unfortunately, this didn’t work for me. It’s like all the ideas and elements were there, but the execution missed the mark. This isn’t a slow burn either, it was insta-lust with a side of whip-lash. The magical system was confusing. I found myself struggling to get through this book. Even when I was finished with the book, I was confused about the world building and character developments. I had high hopes for this book, so I’m disappointed 😔
Thank you NetGalley for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
This was everything I wanted it to be and more! Incredible world building, insane plot twists and a romance that had me in a chokehold!
𝐀𝐧𝐝 𝐰𝐡𝐞𝐧 𝐝𝐞𝐚𝐭𝐡—𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐨𝐧𝐥𝐲 𝐦𝐨𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐫 𝐰𝐡𝐨 𝐚𝐬𝐤𝐞𝐝 𝐧𝐨𝐭𝐡𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐨𝐟 𝐦𝐞—𝐭𝐨𝐨𝐤 𝐦𝐞 𝐢𝐧𝐭𝐨 𝐡𝐞𝐫 𝐚𝐫𝐦𝐬, 𝐦𝐚𝐲𝐛𝐞 𝐈’𝐝 𝐟𝐢𝐧𝐚𝐥𝐥𝐲 𝐠𝐞𝐭 𝐬𝐨𝐦𝐞 𝐟𝐮𝐜𝐤𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐫𝐞𝐬𝐭.
Book Blurb: Revel has been imprisoned for years after getting revenge on a powerful family’s son and heir for killing her brother, brutally training for a mission her entire time in the hopes she can atone and let her mother and sister go free. She is given the impossible mission of going on the Call, a bloodbath for the House heirs, find and return with the Night Shard and kill the most notorious Warbringer in the process. If she doesn’t, her family dies but if she does will she lose a critical piece of herself?
𝐒𝐮𝐫𝐯𝐢𝐯𝐞 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐂𝐚𝐥𝐥 𝐥𝐨𝐧𝐠 𝐞𝐧𝐨𝐮𝐠𝐡 𝐭𝐨 𝐬𝐭𝐞𝐚𝐥 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐍𝐢𝐠𝐡𝐭 𝐬𝐡𝐚𝐫𝐝. 𝐊𝐢𝐥𝐥 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐖𝐚𝐫𝐛𝐫𝐢𝐧𝐠𝐞𝐫. 𝐆𝐞𝐭 𝐦𝐲 𝐟𝐚𝐦𝐢𝐥𝐲 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐡𝐞𝐥𝐥 𝐨𝐮𝐭 𝐨𝐟 𝐡𝐞𝐫𝐞.
I absolutely loved how the world building and character background was slowly dripped out to us, in context with what Revel was currently going through. It created compelling moments and intrigue, while providing important characterization that felt in the moment and also earned. The plot and characters felt complexed and nuanced, I love just how brutal it felt.
“𝐖𝐞 𝐜𝐚𝐧 𝐛𝐞 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐑𝐮𝐢𝐧𝐞𝐫𝐬. 𝐇𝐨𝐰 𝐝𝐨𝐞𝐬 𝐭𝐡𝐚𝐭 𝐬𝐨𝐮𝐧𝐝?” “𝐑𝐮𝐢𝐧𝐞𝐫𝐬,” 𝐬𝐡𝐞 𝐫𝐞𝐩𝐞𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐝 𝐰𝐢𝐭𝐡 𝐚 𝐡𝐚𝐥𝐟 𝐬𝐦𝐢𝐥𝐞. “𝐏𝐞𝐫𝐡𝐚𝐩𝐬.”
I think this is one book where the bread crumbs are there and you get a sense of the picture, but there will be definitely moments that you didn’t expect and while blow your mind! I need to do another read to see if it’s more obvious in hindsight and what other clues I can piece together!
“𝐅𝐨𝐮𝐧𝐝 𝐲𝐨𝐮 𝐚𝐭 𝐥𝐚𝐬𝐭. 𝐅𝐢𝐠𝐡𝐭 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐦𝐞, 𝐨𝐫 𝐥𝐞𝐭 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐠𝐨𝐝𝐬 𝐭𝐚𝐤𝐞 𝐲𝐨𝐮.”
The romance in this one was HOT. This book is the epitome of the song The Drag Path by the 21 Pilots, all of the little strings tying the FMC and MMC together in a million knots and tangles. I love a man who yearns and is down so bad and this has that in SPADES. I could say more but honestly I don’t want to ruin any of the magic so pls just come and squeal with me after you read it!
“𝐒𝐡𝐞 𝐢𝐬 𝐧𝐨𝐭 𝐲𝐨𝐮𝐫𝐬 𝐭𝐨 𝐭𝐨𝐮𝐜𝐡,” 𝐡𝐞 𝐬𝐚𝐢𝐝 𝐬𝐨𝐟𝐭𝐥𝐲, 𝐡𝐢𝐬 𝐟𝐚𝐜𝐞 𝐜𝐚𝐫𝐞𝐟𝐮𝐥𝐥𝐲 𝐛𝐥𝐚𝐧𝐤.
If you like:
💜 Enemies to Lovers
⚔️ She’s Sent to Assassinate Him
💜 Deadly Trials and Monsters
⚔️ Shards of God Powers
💜 Messy Found Family
⚔️ Touch Her/Him and Die
💜 Morally Grey Everyone
⚔️ Tortured Anti-Hero
Then this is the book for you! Releases October 31, 2026 and I’m already desperate for book 2! Thank you so much to the author and Saturday Books for the advanced arc, all thoughts and opinions are my own.
| Insta | Tiktok |
𝐀𝐧𝐝 𝐰𝐡𝐞𝐧 𝐝𝐞𝐚𝐭𝐡—𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐨𝐧𝐥𝐲 𝐦𝐨𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐫 𝐰𝐡𝐨 𝐚𝐬𝐤𝐞𝐝 𝐧𝐨𝐭𝐡𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐨𝐟 𝐦𝐞—𝐭𝐨𝐨𝐤 𝐦𝐞 𝐢𝐧𝐭𝐨 𝐡𝐞𝐫 𝐚𝐫𝐦𝐬, 𝐦𝐚𝐲𝐛𝐞 𝐈’𝐝 𝐟𝐢𝐧𝐚𝐥𝐥𝐲 𝐠𝐞𝐭 𝐬𝐨𝐦𝐞 𝐟𝐮𝐜𝐤𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐫𝐞𝐬𝐭.
Book Blurb: Revel has been imprisoned for years after getting revenge on a powerful family’s son and heir for killing her brother, brutally training for a mission her entire time in the hopes she can atone and let her mother and sister go free. She is given the impossible mission of going on the Call, a bloodbath for the House heirs, find and return with the Night Shard and kill the most notorious Warbringer in the process. If she doesn’t, her family dies but if she does will she lose a critical piece of herself?
𝐒𝐮𝐫𝐯𝐢𝐯𝐞 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐂𝐚𝐥𝐥 𝐥𝐨𝐧𝐠 𝐞𝐧𝐨𝐮𝐠𝐡 𝐭𝐨 𝐬𝐭𝐞𝐚𝐥 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐍𝐢𝐠𝐡𝐭 𝐬𝐡𝐚𝐫𝐝. 𝐊𝐢𝐥𝐥 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐖𝐚𝐫𝐛𝐫𝐢𝐧𝐠𝐞𝐫. 𝐆𝐞𝐭 𝐦𝐲 𝐟𝐚𝐦𝐢𝐥𝐲 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐡𝐞𝐥𝐥 𝐨𝐮𝐭 𝐨𝐟 𝐡𝐞𝐫𝐞.
I absolutely loved how the world building and character background was slowly dripped out to us, in context with what Revel was currently going through. It created compelling moments and intrigue, while providing important characterization that felt in the moment and also earned. The plot and characters felt complexed and nuanced, I love just how brutal it felt.
“𝐖𝐞 𝐜𝐚𝐧 𝐛𝐞 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐑𝐮𝐢𝐧𝐞𝐫𝐬. 𝐇𝐨𝐰 𝐝𝐨𝐞𝐬 𝐭𝐡𝐚𝐭 𝐬𝐨𝐮𝐧𝐝?” “𝐑𝐮𝐢𝐧𝐞𝐫𝐬,” 𝐬𝐡𝐞 𝐫𝐞𝐩𝐞𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐝 𝐰𝐢𝐭𝐡 𝐚 𝐡𝐚𝐥𝐟 𝐬𝐦𝐢𝐥𝐞. “𝐏𝐞𝐫𝐡𝐚𝐩𝐬.”
I think this is one book where the bread crumbs are there and you get a sense of the picture, but there will be definitely moments that you didn’t expect and while blow your mind! I need to do another read to see if it’s more obvious in hindsight and what other clues I can piece together!
“𝐅𝐨𝐮𝐧𝐝 𝐲𝐨𝐮 𝐚𝐭 𝐥𝐚𝐬𝐭. 𝐅𝐢𝐠𝐡𝐭 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐦𝐞, 𝐨𝐫 𝐥𝐞𝐭 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐠𝐨𝐝𝐬 𝐭𝐚𝐤𝐞 𝐲𝐨𝐮.”
The romance in this one was HOT. This book is the epitome of the song The Drag Path by the 21 Pilots, all of the little strings tying the FMC and MMC together in a million knots and tangles. I love a man who yearns and is down so bad and this has that in SPADES. I could say more but honestly I don’t want to ruin any of the magic so pls just come and squeal with me after you read it!
“𝐒𝐡𝐞 𝐢𝐬 𝐧𝐨𝐭 𝐲𝐨𝐮𝐫𝐬 𝐭𝐨 𝐭𝐨𝐮𝐜𝐡,” 𝐡𝐞 𝐬𝐚𝐢𝐝 𝐬𝐨𝐟𝐭𝐥𝐲, 𝐡𝐢𝐬 𝐟𝐚𝐜𝐞 𝐜𝐚𝐫𝐞𝐟𝐮𝐥𝐥𝐲 𝐛𝐥𝐚𝐧𝐤.
If you like:
💜 Enemies to Lovers
⚔️ She’s Sent to Assassinate Him
💜 Deadly Trials and Monsters
⚔️ Shards of God Powers
💜 Messy Found Family
⚔️ Touch Her/Him and Die
💜 Morally Grey Everyone
⚔️ Tortured Anti-Hero
Then this is the book for you! Releases October 31, 2026 and I’m already desperate for book 2! Thank you so much to the author and Saturday Books for the advanced arc, all thoughts and opinions are my own.
| Insta | Tiktok |
May 3, 2026
Thank you NetGalley and publishers for gifting me this arc!
I wish that I loved this book. I feel like it had so much potential to be one of my favorite books ever but it just kept disappointing me again and again.
There are many things that I didn’t like about this book. One of those being that the characters fell so flat for me. As someone who loves deep and emotional characters, this book missed that for me by MILES. I can see that there was points where the characters were being emotional but I just could not find the effort in me to care. And I hate that because again, I wanted to love this book SO BADLY. But I find it hard to love a book when actions from characters don’t make any sense.
Another thing I didn’t like was the pacing of the romance. To me it felt off the entire time. This book was marketed as an “enemies to lovers” and “both characters are morally gray”. There was never a time when I thought that the two main characters were “enemies”. The first moment she sees the MMC, she goes on and on about how hot he is. That’s another thing I didn’t like. The romance was too lusty for me. It seemed that all she could talk about was his muscles and not about what he means to her.
There were a couple things I did like about this book and one of those being the world and the magic. I really liked those elements but I do wish that they were fleshed out a bit more. Half of the time I was really confused on why something did this or why something did that. It kind of was one of the things that had so much potential but was barely meeting it. Another thing I did like was that at the end there was a good plot twist. That is something I can admire because I love plot twists and this one definitely caught me by surprise.
I really try to look at books and find something about them that is good and can recommend to someone if they wanted it. But with this one, I just can’t. I didn’t have any motivation to read this book(for probably more reasons than I stated before) and I didn’t enjoy my time reading it. Which really sucks because again, I really wanted to enjoy this book.But I think combined with the wrong marketing giving me completely different expectations than what the book actually was and just my experience reading this book, made me not like it. If you have different opinions about it, then that’s okay! This book just wasn’t for me and I honestly wouldn’t recommend it.
I wish that I loved this book. I feel like it had so much potential to be one of my favorite books ever but it just kept disappointing me again and again.
There are many things that I didn’t like about this book. One of those being that the characters fell so flat for me. As someone who loves deep and emotional characters, this book missed that for me by MILES. I can see that there was points where the characters were being emotional but I just could not find the effort in me to care. And I hate that because again, I wanted to love this book SO BADLY. But I find it hard to love a book when actions from characters don’t make any sense.
Another thing I didn’t like was the pacing of the romance. To me it felt off the entire time. This book was marketed as an “enemies to lovers” and “both characters are morally gray”. There was never a time when I thought that the two main characters were “enemies”. The first moment she sees the MMC, she goes on and on about how hot he is. That’s another thing I didn’t like. The romance was too lusty for me. It seemed that all she could talk about was his muscles and not about what he means to her.
There were a couple things I did like about this book and one of those being the world and the magic. I really liked those elements but I do wish that they were fleshed out a bit more. Half of the time I was really confused on why something did this or why something did that. It kind of was one of the things that had so much potential but was barely meeting it. Another thing I did like was that at the end there was a good plot twist. That is something I can admire because I love plot twists and this one definitely caught me by surprise.
I really try to look at books and find something about them that is good and can recommend to someone if they wanted it. But with this one, I just can’t. I didn’t have any motivation to read this book(for probably more reasons than I stated before) and I didn’t enjoy my time reading it. Which really sucks because again, I really wanted to enjoy this book.But I think combined with the wrong marketing giving me completely different expectations than what the book actually was and just my experience reading this book, made me not like it. If you have different opinions about it, then that’s okay! This book just wasn’t for me and I honestly wouldn’t recommend it.
Review of advance copy received from Author
This might be a little too niche but if you love Full Metal Alchemist, Rome, a deadly mission with just a dash of Inuyasha vibes you’ll LOVE this one 😅
I will just start off by saying Full Metal Alchemist was my favorite anime (until the ending 😅) so I liked this book from the jump. HOWEVER, there was waaaay too much taken from that anime and plopped right into this book for me 😬 I mean down to some crazy obvious details (the arrays, clapping then placing your hands down, the arm, the ARMOR??).
The story itself is different enough that I still enjoyed the read, but I think it means a lot when an author is creative about their magic system and the backstory surrounding that. The fact that this one was almost a carbon copy of the show was really disappointing.
_______________________________________
Revel is imprisoned and trained to compete in the Call, which can happen whenever the Prime feels like calling one (ha). To earn her and her family’s freedom, she’ll have to do the impossible and she learns very quickly just how impossible it is.
She meets the Warbringer, aka Axus Tassian aka Dominus Tassian 🤭 and there’s so much tension IMMEDIATELY that I ate up. The way their relationship ebbs and flows from “you’re the worst person I’ve ever met” to “😮💨🥵” killed me!
You’ll like this read if you’re into:
🏯 diverse culture
🔥 forced proximity
🗡️ enemies to lovers
🌅 gods and demons
Thank you so much to Tina for this eARC in exchange for an honest review!
I will just start off by saying Full Metal Alchemist was my favorite anime (until the ending 😅) so I liked this book from the jump. HOWEVER, there was waaaay too much taken from that anime and plopped right into this book for me 😬 I mean down to some crazy obvious details (the arrays, clapping then placing your hands down, the arm, the ARMOR??).
The story itself is different enough that I still enjoyed the read, but I think it means a lot when an author is creative about their magic system and the backstory surrounding that. The fact that this one was almost a carbon copy of the show was really disappointing.
_______________________________________
Revel is imprisoned and trained to compete in the Call, which can happen whenever the Prime feels like calling one (ha). To earn her and her family’s freedom, she’ll have to do the impossible and she learns very quickly just how impossible it is.
She meets the Warbringer, aka Axus Tassian aka Dominus Tassian 🤭 and there’s so much tension IMMEDIATELY that I ate up. The way their relationship ebbs and flows from “you’re the worst person I’ve ever met” to “😮💨🥵” killed me!
You’ll like this read if you’re into:
🏯 diverse culture
🔥 forced proximity
🗡️ enemies to lovers
🌅 gods and demons
Thank you so much to Tina for this eARC in exchange for an honest review!
August 5, 2026
Thank you to Tina Mars, Net Galley, St. Martins Press, and Saturday Books for this advanced e-book. Spoiler alert: I’ve ordered the hard copy for when it comes out and will definitely read the whole series.
I found myself mesmerized by the prose of this book. Clearly, Tina Mars is a poet. Mars weaves raw, soul-baring prose into her storytelling, giving Revel a degree of vulnerability that resonated with some of my own insecurities. While I love the poetic prose, sometimes the language becomes overly ornate, but the strength of individual scenes and the immersive quality of the character work would draw me back in. Revel, Dex, Axus, Mauve, and Clo stand out in particular as vividly rendered and engaging. I had some difficulty distinguishing between two of the “H” characters, though that may simply be a personal reading issue. Overall, this is a fun and immersive debut and compelling to read.
The romantic tension was so well done. I love Dominus/ Axus/ Warbringer. Was it kinda instalove? Yes. Do I care? Not one bit. While the timing seemed off and a bit abrupt/rushed, I suspect there is more to their story, which will be revealed as the series progresses. I’m going to trust the process. I think there is a LOT more to this story and lot more nuance that is forthcoming. Am I delusional? Maybe. But I have theories, and honestly I love a book that gets me thinking a million things at once and trying to parse out a mention of something seemingly innocuous that I’m convinced is an Easter egg.
That said, my biggest issue is that I do not think the story starts in the right place. Like many recent debut fantasies, the opening relies heavily on disorienting the reader with “a lot of action and conflict” rather than first grounding them. The first chapter drops us into the world without sufficient context, making it difficult to understand what is happening or why it matters. I found myself wishing for a slower start—perhaps beginning with the sisters in the cell, discussing their brother and how they arrived there, or even getting captured by Belatoris, or even (gasp) a prologue of 12 years prior and the whole scene with Kore, the array, and her dad—before transitioning into the simulation would have made it smoother for me personally. As it stands, I had to reread the opening chapter twice just to orient myself, which is not typical for me.
The opening also made it unclear what was metaphorical and what was worldbuilding. For example, I initially interpreted the moving tattoo as a metaphor rather than an actual magical element. However, I’ll give a total pass because it’s an immersive tactic. The tattoo kept coming up and many characters comment on it so I figured it out. I think this will play a big role in the next book. However, a simple line to clarify would’ve helped me—but this is being especially fiddly now.
The magic system, in particular, remains difficult to understand. I wanted to feel grounded in the magic system, but I didn’t understand the rules and limitations, and if there is a range of abilities. I think it’s implied different houses have different strengths but this wasn’t developed enough. Perhaps it would be more apparent with a re-read. I eventually just accepted it so as not be overwhelmed. However, it definitely thwarted some of my immersive experience.
At the sentence level, while the prose is undeniably beautiful, it can occasionally obscure meaning. I found myself rereading passages to track key details. However, on the flip side there are so many beautiful passages and mind-blowing quotes that I found myself highlighting more than I ever do in an ARC.
Side note: What does “her pallor was pale” mean? Granted it’s in the snippet of in-world writings but it doesn’t make sense.
This novel shows clear promise as a debut and a series debut. Mars is a talented writer with a strong command of language and character, and there are hints that larger narrative threads are being set up for future installments (particularly the tattoo, Revel’s hair, and I suspect the poets/Gods/Rev&Axus).
4.5 out of 5 stars rounded up because I really did love it overall. I stumbled across this book via an instagram post. Tina Mars was announcing her book had been accepted. I love following her journey. She does an incredible job marketing! I didn’t make it onto her street team but I was lucky to snag this arc!
Edit: I also received the advance audiobook. The narrators did a great job.
I found myself mesmerized by the prose of this book. Clearly, Tina Mars is a poet. Mars weaves raw, soul-baring prose into her storytelling, giving Revel a degree of vulnerability that resonated with some of my own insecurities. While I love the poetic prose, sometimes the language becomes overly ornate, but the strength of individual scenes and the immersive quality of the character work would draw me back in. Revel, Dex, Axus, Mauve, and Clo stand out in particular as vividly rendered and engaging. I had some difficulty distinguishing between two of the “H” characters, though that may simply be a personal reading issue. Overall, this is a fun and immersive debut and compelling to read.
The romantic tension was so well done. I love Dominus/ Axus/ Warbringer. Was it kinda instalove? Yes. Do I care? Not one bit. While the timing seemed off and a bit abrupt/rushed, I suspect there is more to their story, which will be revealed as the series progresses. I’m going to trust the process. I think there is a LOT more to this story and lot more nuance that is forthcoming. Am I delusional? Maybe. But I have theories, and honestly I love a book that gets me thinking a million things at once and trying to parse out a mention of something seemingly innocuous that I’m convinced is an Easter egg.
That said, my biggest issue is that I do not think the story starts in the right place. Like many recent debut fantasies, the opening relies heavily on disorienting the reader with “a lot of action and conflict” rather than first grounding them. The first chapter drops us into the world without sufficient context, making it difficult to understand what is happening or why it matters. I found myself wishing for a slower start—perhaps beginning with the sisters in the cell, discussing their brother and how they arrived there, or even getting captured by Belatoris, or even (gasp) a prologue of 12 years prior and the whole scene with Kore, the array, and her dad—before transitioning into the simulation would have made it smoother for me personally. As it stands, I had to reread the opening chapter twice just to orient myself, which is not typical for me.
The opening also made it unclear what was metaphorical and what was worldbuilding. For example, I initially interpreted the moving tattoo as a metaphor rather than an actual magical element. However, I’ll give a total pass because it’s an immersive tactic. The tattoo kept coming up and many characters comment on it so I figured it out. I think this will play a big role in the next book. However, a simple line to clarify would’ve helped me—but this is being especially fiddly now.
The magic system, in particular, remains difficult to understand. I wanted to feel grounded in the magic system, but I didn’t understand the rules and limitations, and if there is a range of abilities. I think it’s implied different houses have different strengths but this wasn’t developed enough. Perhaps it would be more apparent with a re-read. I eventually just accepted it so as not be overwhelmed. However, it definitely thwarted some of my immersive experience.
At the sentence level, while the prose is undeniably beautiful, it can occasionally obscure meaning. I found myself rereading passages to track key details. However, on the flip side there are so many beautiful passages and mind-blowing quotes that I found myself highlighting more than I ever do in an ARC.
Side note: What does “her pallor was pale” mean? Granted it’s in the snippet of in-world writings but it doesn’t make sense.
This novel shows clear promise as a debut and a series debut. Mars is a talented writer with a strong command of language and character, and there are hints that larger narrative threads are being set up for future installments (particularly the tattoo, Revel’s hair, and I suspect the poets/Gods/Rev&Axus).
4.5 out of 5 stars rounded up because I really did love it overall. I stumbled across this book via an instagram post. Tina Mars was announcing her book had been accepted. I love following her journey. She does an incredible job marketing! I didn’t make it onto her street team but I was lucky to snag this arc!
Edit: I also received the advance audiobook. The narrators did a great job.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Thank you to NetGalley and Tina Mars for gifting me a copy of this book.
I really wanted to love this book because I had seen so much hype about it before I received the ARC, but unfortunately that only gave me high expectations which were sadly never met. I struggled with the world-building and magic system throughout most of the story. There were so many interesting concepts, but I never felt like I fully understood how everything worked or how the different pieces connected.
There were definitely moments where I could see how much potential this story had, and when I was immersed, I was really invested. But the inconsistency in the world-building and lack of clarity kept pulling me back out. Ultimately, I finished the book still feeling like I didn’t fully understand the world or its magic, which made it difficult for me to connect with the story as a whole.
I really wanted to love this book because I had seen so much hype about it before I received the ARC, but unfortunately that only gave me high expectations which were sadly never met. I struggled with the world-building and magic system throughout most of the story. There were so many interesting concepts, but I never felt like I fully understood how everything worked or how the different pieces connected.
There were definitely moments where I could see how much potential this story had, and when I was immersed, I was really invested. But the inconsistency in the world-building and lack of clarity kept pulling me back out. Ultimately, I finished the book still feeling like I didn’t fully understand the world or its magic, which made it difficult for me to connect with the story as a whole.
March 8, 2026
Alright…prepare to be sick of me because WHAT?! Tina, you are absolutely insane for this book in the best possible way. You said you wanted feral readers. You said prepare to be ruined. Well, congrats…because this book absolutely destroyed me and I will be losing my ever-loving mind until I have at least 5 copies AND book 2 in my hands. Okay, now this is the part where I try to form coherent sentences to do justice to this absolute freakin’ masterpiece of a read.
First of all, I will say that this book pulls you in right from the jump. There is no easing into it. There is no “just wait for it to build”. From page one, I was absolutely immersed in the stunning, rich, decadent yet harsh world Tina has created. I immediately felt drawn into the story and to the characters in a way I haven’t in a very long time. Yes, this book has all of the tropes that make us bookish humans weak in the knees but it’s done in a way that makes it feel new.
Secondly, the writing is absolutely beautiful. Tina has such a way with words that makes this book stand out from the rest. If I hadn’t been following her from the start, I would never have believed that this is her debut novel. The incorporation of elements of Japanese and Roman culture brought so much substance to the story and Revel’s journey of exploring her self-worth was so enchanting to read while still being utterly raw and poignant. The complexity of the characters and the things they endure truly made me feel the need to stare at a wall for a while.
This book is sure to check all of the boxes for such a diverse readership and I seriously cannot wait for y’all to have it in your hands…not to mention that I need emotional support and someone to scream into the void with over that cliffhanger!! I know I’ll be saying a lot more about this book as we wait for release day but, for now, I just want to thank Tina and Saturday Books for the opportunity to read an early copy. For all my NetGalley peeps, look out for another opportunity to ARC read this one soon. I know it will become a favorite for you just as has for me.
Infinite stars 💫
First of all, I will say that this book pulls you in right from the jump. There is no easing into it. There is no “just wait for it to build”. From page one, I was absolutely immersed in the stunning, rich, decadent yet harsh world Tina has created. I immediately felt drawn into the story and to the characters in a way I haven’t in a very long time. Yes, this book has all of the tropes that make us bookish humans weak in the knees but it’s done in a way that makes it feel new.
Secondly, the writing is absolutely beautiful. Tina has such a way with words that makes this book stand out from the rest. If I hadn’t been following her from the start, I would never have believed that this is her debut novel. The incorporation of elements of Japanese and Roman culture brought so much substance to the story and Revel’s journey of exploring her self-worth was so enchanting to read while still being utterly raw and poignant. The complexity of the characters and the things they endure truly made me feel the need to stare at a wall for a while.
This book is sure to check all of the boxes for such a diverse readership and I seriously cannot wait for y’all to have it in your hands…not to mention that I need emotional support and someone to scream into the void with over that cliffhanger!! I know I’ll be saying a lot more about this book as we wait for release day but, for now, I just want to thank Tina and Saturday Books for the opportunity to read an early copy. For all my NetGalley peeps, look out for another opportunity to ARC read this one soon. I know it will become a favorite for you just as has for me.
Infinite stars 💫
February 28, 2026
Thank you to Tina and Saturday Books for this early ARC! I loved TWA so much!
What I loved:
-The MMC is my new book boyfriend obsession 🔥 he is literally everything I want in an MMC
-The FMC is stabby, relatable, finding herself, insecure, tortured, and badass
-Orphy 👀
-Amazing side characters
-Twists
-Cliffhanger
-Hidden identities
-Deadly trials
-Slow burn
-The lore and world building
-Creepy creatures
-Epigraphs with hidden Easter eggs
-Tension, banter, and yearning
What I didn’t like:
That I have to wait so long for book 2! 😂
What I loved:
-The MMC is my new book boyfriend obsession 🔥 he is literally everything I want in an MMC
-The FMC is stabby, relatable, finding herself, insecure, tortured, and badass
-Orphy 👀
-Amazing side characters
-Twists
-Cliffhanger
-Hidden identities
-Deadly trials
-Slow burn
-The lore and world building
-Creepy creatures
-Epigraphs with hidden Easter eggs
-Tension, banter, and yearning
What I didn’t like:
That I have to wait so long for book 2! 😂
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
ALC Review
Thank you, Tina Mars, Macmillan Audio for the ALC and St. Martin Press, and Netgalley for this ALC in exchange for an honest review. These are my own opinions and own opinions alone.
This is the first book of Tina Mars that I have listened/read and let me tell you, I ran to Instagram and immediately DMed her to obviously very politely request her publisher (& publishers in general) to stop skipping the DMV when authors go on tour. Us DMVers are feeling very left out. The DMs do continue, I then told her I needed all of her tarot cards but I fear having 6 books of the same book feels glutenous. Continuing with the DMs, I also said I need a physical copy so I can reread and annotate it.
Now that you followed my conversation, I think you might be able to guess that I LOVED this book. It was so good. So captivating and I seriously loved this FMC and MMC.
Two different people from two very different world both have a mission that require each other. They both have demons they are battling. This book ends on a cliff hanger that makes you want to kick a rock. Smh.
The more I read, the more I do not like to put tropes down in my reviews. You’ve read the synopses, right? I’m not going to repeat. I want you to feel what I felt, which was excitement, anticipation, mild anxiety. I also want everybody to know, I thought of the graph almost every time the narrator said Axus. Hahah. Im like, Y axis or X?
I saw one review that said this booked leaned heavily into flowery, metaphorical language which added to their confusion. I honestly have to disagree. It was lyrical but it was intentional. I didn’t ever feel confused. There were some references to Roman-inspired gladiator with elements of Asian folklore that I was not privy too but honestly, that’s how we learn. So, I enjoyed that aspect.
Anyways, this book was 4 stars out of 5 for me! I loved it really! I would have liked a little more on the world building aspect but for your debut Romantasy book, home run babe. I am so excited to see what comes next for Revel and Axus!
Now let’s talk about the narrators! Jennifer Ikeda and Soneela Nankani dual narrate this book and they do it so well. Their voices are sultry and enticing! I loved it. So easy to listen to. They know how to carry the story and keep the listener engaged the entire time. I also felt they did a wonderful job with their different voices for different characters. It was easy to follow and navigate even when I am commuting to work.
Overall, I 100% recommend this book and audiobook. I plan I rereading this for sure as I always feel like I miss important nuggets the first go around.
RATING
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice Level: 🌶️
Length: 400 Pages
Publisher: St. Martin Press
Duet Narration 15h 45m at 2x
Jennifer Ikeda and Soneela Nankani
Narration Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Publisher: Macmillan Audio
Listened via Netgalley
Thank you, Tina Mars, Macmillan Audio for the ALC and St. Martin Press, and Netgalley for this ALC in exchange for an honest review. These are my own opinions and own opinions alone.
This is the first book of Tina Mars that I have listened/read and let me tell you, I ran to Instagram and immediately DMed her to obviously very politely request her publisher (& publishers in general) to stop skipping the DMV when authors go on tour. Us DMVers are feeling very left out. The DMs do continue, I then told her I needed all of her tarot cards but I fear having 6 books of the same book feels glutenous. Continuing with the DMs, I also said I need a physical copy so I can reread and annotate it.
Now that you followed my conversation, I think you might be able to guess that I LOVED this book. It was so good. So captivating and I seriously loved this FMC and MMC.
Two different people from two very different world both have a mission that require each other. They both have demons they are battling. This book ends on a cliff hanger that makes you want to kick a rock. Smh.
The more I read, the more I do not like to put tropes down in my reviews. You’ve read the synopses, right? I’m not going to repeat. I want you to feel what I felt, which was excitement, anticipation, mild anxiety. I also want everybody to know, I thought of the graph almost every time the narrator said Axus. Hahah. Im like, Y axis or X?
I saw one review that said this booked leaned heavily into flowery, metaphorical language which added to their confusion. I honestly have to disagree. It was lyrical but it was intentional. I didn’t ever feel confused. There were some references to Roman-inspired gladiator with elements of Asian folklore that I was not privy too but honestly, that’s how we learn. So, I enjoyed that aspect.
Anyways, this book was 4 stars out of 5 for me! I loved it really! I would have liked a little more on the world building aspect but for your debut Romantasy book, home run babe. I am so excited to see what comes next for Revel and Axus!
Now let’s talk about the narrators! Jennifer Ikeda and Soneela Nankani dual narrate this book and they do it so well. Their voices are sultry and enticing! I loved it. So easy to listen to. They know how to carry the story and keep the listener engaged the entire time. I also felt they did a wonderful job with their different voices for different characters. It was easy to follow and navigate even when I am commuting to work.
Overall, I 100% recommend this book and audiobook. I plan I rereading this for sure as I always feel like I miss important nuggets the first go around.
RATING
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice Level: 🌶️
Length: 400 Pages
Publisher: St. Martin Press
Duet Narration 15h 45m at 2x
Jennifer Ikeda and Soneela Nankani
Narration Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Publisher: Macmillan Audio
Listened via Netgalley
August 29, 2026
Tina, oh my god, at least leave me with a little bit of hope! The blend of Gladiator with Japanese and Asian folklore, myths, and legends was so clever. The fantasy elements had recognisable parts that made the world-building so easy to understand. It was an absolute page-turner from start to finish, but that cliffhanger was just plain rude—it hurt! There is going to need to be some serious healing in book two for my poor emotions. Asking for a friend... when is book two coming out?!
wishlist
March 10, 2026ooooou i want
August 13, 2026
3.5
Thanks to the publisher for the ALC in exchange for my honest thoughts 💌
Tina was the first bookstagrammer I ever followed and wold become the inspiration that kickstarted me starting my own. Following her journey to publishing her first book has been so excited and I'm so proud of her for taking the jump.
This Wretched Alchemy did fall a bit below my personal expectations but I think there are a lot of readers who will enjoy the tone of this story. Tina takes a lot of really fun elements such as Roman Empire inspiration and contributes nods to Asian diaspora that add a significant dynamic to the fantasy space.
My personal struggle was the feeling that the world functions and overall mission of the main characters was not well explained. I found myself wanting for more details and explanation but the story kept trudging ever forward with oddly placed lusty scenes that didn't accomplish convicting me on the romance. The chemistry was pretty initial from the get-go and this doesn't always bother me but it didn't work for me here, sadly.
I'll more than likely tune in for book two because I'm interested enough to see where the story goes from here.
The audiobook was great! I'm a big fan of this narrator and thought she did a great job :)
Thanks to the publisher for the ALC in exchange for my honest thoughts 💌
Tina was the first bookstagrammer I ever followed and wold become the inspiration that kickstarted me starting my own. Following her journey to publishing her first book has been so excited and I'm so proud of her for taking the jump.
This Wretched Alchemy did fall a bit below my personal expectations but I think there are a lot of readers who will enjoy the tone of this story. Tina takes a lot of really fun elements such as Roman Empire inspiration and contributes nods to Asian diaspora that add a significant dynamic to the fantasy space.
My personal struggle was the feeling that the world functions and overall mission of the main characters was not well explained. I found myself wanting for more details and explanation but the story kept trudging ever forward with oddly placed lusty scenes that didn't accomplish convicting me on the romance. The chemistry was pretty initial from the get-go and this doesn't always bother me but it didn't work for me here, sadly.
I'll more than likely tune in for book two because I'm interested enough to see where the story goes from here.
The audiobook was great! I'm a big fan of this narrator and thought she did a great job :)
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Edit: after much consideration I’m making this a 2 star. The more i think about it the more i dislike it.
Thank you to NetGalley, Tina Mars and her publishing team for sending me a digital copy for review!
I’m honestly having a hard time trying to rate this book. I enjoyed it a lot in the second half, but during the beginning I didn’t want to pick it up to read it. Overall it was a fun book though!
I’ll start with that I liked:
It was very fast paced, I was never bored. Lots of fun action and the hunt for the god shard, not knowing who to trust and all the battles made this book riveting.
The side characters were so fun!!! I loved dex, chlo and Mauve. Honestly it’s hard for me to connect with side characters sometimes but I really enjoyed these ones.
I feel mixed feelings towards revel. In the first half, she was super annoying in my opinion and often gave me secondhand embarrassment. But towards the end once I learned her motives and more about her, I related to her a lot actually. I loved her love for poetry and how her poems were integrated into the story. Also I love her tattoo, such a cool concept.
Same with Axus. Sometimes he made me cringe but he had deeper levels to him. But it also felt too basic at times.
The magic system was very cool and unique. I don’t see a lot like it in fantasy books. Although it was confusing at times.
Speaking of which, what I didn’t like:
The whole first half I was so confused. There was a lot of names to take in, especially since everyone has like 5 names and they were all used interchangeably. Also understanding how the politics and magic worked took some brain power. my two friends who were reading with me agreed on this. Also: the curses used were just cringe. I know the author was trying to be creative but some of these, seriously? It was unnecessarily crude and just plain cringy.
The romance felt a bit lusty at times, especially at the beginning and revel would one second be like: “I’m keeping my guard up around him.” And the next ( one paragraph later) be like: “I want him to touch me.” Etc. but once it actually developed a bit I liked it.
Also the twists in the middle didn’t really affect me much, but that’s just a me problem not really being attached to certain characters. But the twist at the end though…. That one got me. Was not expecting that. Overall a pretty solid debut! I think I’ll continue the series, especially after that ending. (Edit: no I won’t sorry)
Spice: 2/5 (open door scenes in chapters 27 + 37)
Language: strong
Thank you to NetGalley, Tina Mars and her publishing team for sending me a digital copy for review!
I’m honestly having a hard time trying to rate this book. I enjoyed it a lot in the second half, but during the beginning I didn’t want to pick it up to read it. Overall it was a fun book though!
I’ll start with that I liked:
It was very fast paced, I was never bored. Lots of fun action and the hunt for the god shard, not knowing who to trust and all the battles made this book riveting.
The side characters were so fun!!! I loved dex, chlo and Mauve. Honestly it’s hard for me to connect with side characters sometimes but I really enjoyed these ones.
I feel mixed feelings towards revel. In the first half, she was super annoying in my opinion and often gave me secondhand embarrassment. But towards the end once I learned her motives and more about her, I related to her a lot actually. I loved her love for poetry and how her poems were integrated into the story. Also I love her tattoo, such a cool concept.
Same with Axus. Sometimes he made me cringe but he had deeper levels to him. But it also felt too basic at times.
The magic system was very cool and unique. I don’t see a lot like it in fantasy books. Although it was confusing at times.
Speaking of which, what I didn’t like:
The whole first half I was so confused. There was a lot of names to take in, especially since everyone has like 5 names and they were all used interchangeably. Also understanding how the politics and magic worked took some brain power. my two friends who were reading with me agreed on this. Also: the curses used were just cringe. I know the author was trying to be creative but some of these, seriously? It was unnecessarily crude and just plain cringy.
The romance felt a bit lusty at times, especially at the beginning and revel would one second be like: “I’m keeping my guard up around him.” And the next ( one paragraph later) be like: “I want him to touch me.” Etc. but once it actually developed a bit I liked it.
Also the twists in the middle didn’t really affect me much, but that’s just a me problem not really being attached to certain characters. But the twist at the end though…. That one got me. Was not expecting that. Overall a pretty solid debut! I think I’ll continue the series, especially after that ending. (Edit: no I won’t sorry)
Spice: 2/5 (open door scenes in chapters 27 + 37)
Language: strong
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July 21, 2026This Wretched Alchemy
Ruinous Fate Saga: Book One
by Tina Mars
This is the book that pulled me out of a reading slump, so I have to give it credit for that. The first 25–30% had me completely hooked. The alchemy, the gladiator-inspired setting, and the mystery surrounding the world had me eager to keep reading.
As the story progressed, though, I found myself wishing some elements had been given more time to develop. The found family dynamic and especially the romance moved a little too quickly for me to fully connect with them. While the marketing leans into enemies-to-lovers, I personally didn't feel that tension lasted long enough to really earn the payoff. It felt more like attraction from the start, and I would have loved to see the relationship evolve more gradually.
I also struggled with some of the pacing later in the story. There were moments where the urgency of the plot seemed to pause for spicy scenes, which pulled me out of the narrative a bit. Around the first quarter of the book, I found myself losing some of my emotional connection to the FMC, making it harder for me to stay fully invested in her journey.
That said, I continued reading because the alchemy system and the mythology surrounding the gods remained incredibly intriguing. The ending definitely delivered a surprising twist that added a nice shock factor to close out the story.
Overall, I think this book had a lot of ambitious ideas and an interesting world. I just wish the character relationships had been given the same level of depth as the worldbuilding. While this series ultimately wasn't the right fit for me, I can definitely see it working well for readers who enjoy fast-paced romantasy with a strong magical premise.
Thank you so much NetGalley and Saturday Books for the review copy, all opinions are my own.
Ruinous Fate Saga: Book One
by Tina Mars
This is the book that pulled me out of a reading slump, so I have to give it credit for that. The first 25–30% had me completely hooked. The alchemy, the gladiator-inspired setting, and the mystery surrounding the world had me eager to keep reading.
As the story progressed, though, I found myself wishing some elements had been given more time to develop. The found family dynamic and especially the romance moved a little too quickly for me to fully connect with them. While the marketing leans into enemies-to-lovers, I personally didn't feel that tension lasted long enough to really earn the payoff. It felt more like attraction from the start, and I would have loved to see the relationship evolve more gradually.
I also struggled with some of the pacing later in the story. There were moments where the urgency of the plot seemed to pause for spicy scenes, which pulled me out of the narrative a bit. Around the first quarter of the book, I found myself losing some of my emotional connection to the FMC, making it harder for me to stay fully invested in her journey.
That said, I continued reading because the alchemy system and the mythology surrounding the gods remained incredibly intriguing. The ending definitely delivered a surprising twist that added a nice shock factor to close out the story.
Overall, I think this book had a lot of ambitious ideas and an interesting world. I just wish the character relationships had been given the same level of depth as the worldbuilding. While this series ultimately wasn't the right fit for me, I can definitely see it working well for readers who enjoy fast-paced romantasy with a strong magical premise.
Thank you so much NetGalley and Saturday Books for the review copy, all opinions are my own.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Wowww I have so many thoughts but I think I'm going to keep this one simple. This was truly, at its heart, a story about a woman grappling with whether or not she is worthy of love. Our fmc, Revel, was just used in so many wrong ways by the people who are supposed to treasure you the most that it, understandably, skewed her idea of love and worth. Love became something conditional to Revel. Something that had to be earned and as we journey with her to find the night shard, we also journey together as she fights to come to the realization that she is, in fact, worthy of love. She's got a long way to go but she definitely made some huge strides by the end of this story. Axus, our MMC, is such a complicated character but some of my favorite moments in this book were him. He is so protective. Willing to sacrifice for her every comfort. He is down had for Revel and I'm down bad for him. I swooned and melted for this man. He is so freaking complicated though. Makes me want to tear me hair out! The end of this book was such a wild ride. There were some epic revelations, some that might gut you.. Because they certainly gutted me! The path for book two was laid down hard! I cannot imagine how this story will unwind itself but I'm looking forward to finding out! Thank you to Tina Mars, Saturday books, and NetGalley for the opportunity to arc read This Wretched Alchemy. It was a highly anticipated read for me and I'm so glad I was able to get my eyes on this arc!
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