“Wisteria” by Adalyn Grace is a captivating fantasy novel with a world of magic, complex relationships, and a fiercely determined heroine. Carefully crafted, Grace introduced readers to a world where danger and mysteries are just as constant as the Wisteria vines that seem to have a life of their own. The novel “Wisteria” is the third book in the “Belladonna” series and follows a very gothic fantasy style with magical emotional depth.
The story follows Blythe Hawthorne, a fierce independent young woman who finds herself in an arranged marriage to Aris Dryden, so she can save her father, Elijah Hawthorn. By marrying Dryden, she is saving her father from a wrongful death sentence and by doing so she is tying her fate to Dryden.
As she navigates her new life in Dryden’s Palace, she discovers about her power and her past that intertwines with Dryden’s secrets. Her and Dryden’s journey together is filled with challenges, including confronting manipulations and illusions created by Dryden to deceive their enemies.
What makes “Wisteria” stand out is the combination of tension-filled plot twists and emotional depth. Grace creates an environment that’s lush with details, making the setting feel as alive and influential as the characters themselves.
One of the most intriguing aspects of the novel is the way Grace handles magic for characters, but also a central theme that explores power and its consequences. The world feels lived in and readers are slowly drawn into the complex relationships in Hawthorne’s journey.
Magic in the novel is not simply a fantasy element; it represents power, legacy, and burden. In the novel, it is portrayed as both a gift and a curse, so it can be used to manipulate and protect. The source of magic is often linked to lineage, trauma, and personal sacrifice.
The characters are very great, as each has their own motivation and flaws. Hawthorne herself is a compelling protagonist, strong and determined, yet the uncertain in her personal growth throughout the novel creates a relatable character and places heartbreak within readers.
“Wisteria” is a novel that balances the personal with the epic. It’s about finding one’s place in the world that seems unforgiving all while facing an ever-present darkness. Fans of fantasy who enjoy magic and a little romance all mixed together will love this novel by Grace.
I would give this a 4.5/5 stars because It’s a beautiful tale that is engraved into my brain after reading it. If you’re a fan of fantasy with strong characters and plot that keeps you on your toes, this book is for you.
