Lore of the Wilds
Author: Analeigh Sbrana
Genre: Romance
Romance Subgenre: Romantasy
Topics: Dark Romance, Enchanted Forest, Fae, Forbidden Knowledge, Found Family, Gothic Fantasy, Hidden Power, Magical Library, Romantic Tension, Slow Burn
Release Date: February 27, 2024
Summary
Lore of the Wilds plunges readers into a richly imagined world where ancient magic and personal survival collide. Lore Alemeyu has never left her remote village—one surrounded by a cursed forest and tightly controlled by the ruling Fae. But when her people are threatened with annihilation, Lore dares to make a dangerous bargain: venture into a long-abandoned library filled with forbidden magic. Inside, she finds knowledge that could save her home—but also awakens a power within herself that she barely understands.
Guided by two enigmatic Fae—one aloof and dutiful, the other reckless and cunning—Lore must choose who to trust as she navigates secrets, temptations, and a growing storm of emotions. As threats close in from all sides, she’ll need more than courage to survive the forest’s deadly enchantments. Perfect for romantasy fans, this debut blends lyrical storytelling, a gothic setting, and simmering romantic tension into one unforgettable read.
Characters
Lore Alemeyu
Lore is a 21-year-old Black woman and the protagonist of the story. Scarred—literally and emotionally—from past encounters with the Fae, she is a survivor with a sharp mind and a stubborn will. Her journey into the library uncovers both lost history and her own inner strength.
Asher Gylthrae
Asher is a stoic Fae warrior sworn to his people but increasingly torn as he travels alongside Lore. His sense of duty is challenged by compassion and growing affection. He represents the old order but questions its cruelty.
Finnadryl
Finnadryl is the wilder of the two Fae—rebellious, charming, and unpredictable. He teases out Lore’s fire, challenging her beliefs and drawing out her confidence. He’s as dangerous as he is magnetic.
Special Editions
FairyLoot Exclusive Edition
This edition features a redesigned cover with foil detailing, sprayed edges with ivy motifs, custom endpapers, and an author letter bound into the book. It’s a stunning collector’s item for romantasy lovers.
Age Rating
Recommended for readers ages 16 and up. Contains some mature themes including violence, emotional trauma, and romantic content. No explicit content, but the emotional and romantic tension is strong throughout.
Banned
As of now, Lore of the Wilds has not been banned in any major regions. It has been well received across libraries, bookstores, and school platforms. However, given its darker themes and romantic elements, it may face scrutiny from more conservative reading districts in the future.
Who is this book for?
This book is for romantasy readers craving strong heroines, magical settings with real-world resonance, and deeply emotional character arcs. It’s perfect for fans who love a blend of high fantasy, intimate stakes, and slow-burn romance.
Recommended for fans of:
- Magical libraries and enchanted knowledge
- Dark fae politics with moral complexity
- Romance that grows through tension, trust, and vulnerability
If you enjoyed these books, you’ll love Lore of the Wilds by Analeigh Sbrana:
- A Song of Wraiths and Ruin by Roseanne A. Brown
- The Gilded Ones by Namina Forna
- Raybearer by Jordan Ifueko
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Diverse Elements
Lore of the Wilds brings strong diverse representation in both its characters and its creator. This isn’t just background diversity—it is central to the narrative and themes.
- Black Protagonist: Lore is a Black woman whose identity is celebrated, not sidelined, shaping her resilience and cultural depth.
- BIPOC Love Interests: Both Fae love interests are described with nonwhite features and are cast in layered, complex roles.
- Own Voices Author: Analeigh Sbrana brings lived experience as a Black woman into the fantasy genre.
- Generational Trauma and Healing: Lore’s scars reflect not just personal pain but a lineage of suppressed truth and survival, offering resonant commentary on reclaiming power.
This combination of representation and narrative strength makes it a standout in inclusive fantasy.
What do readers think?
- Readers praise the vivid worldbuilding and lyrical prose, especially the atmospheric setting of the enchanted library.
- Lore is celebrated as a fierce, intelligent, and emotionally complex heroine.
- The romance builds slowly but delivers heavy chemistry and meaningful emotional stakes.
Sweet Pairing
Pick up a store-bought cinnamon swirl bread or cinnamon raisin loaf—something rich and slightly rustic. Then warm it gently and drizzle with a mixture of honey, ground clove, and a pinch of black pepper. This sweet, spiced blend mirrors the earthy, secretive feel of the library and the magic hiding in ancient bindings. The touch of heat from pepper echoes Lore’s grit and the tension simmering between her and the Fae. Serve with black tea steeped long and dark as a forest midnight.
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About the Author
Analeigh Sbrana is a Black writer and visual artist based in California. She lives with her family and a beloved cat, and often draws inspiration from wandering forests, quaint cafés, and dusty bookstores. “Lore of the Wilds” is her debut novel, showcasing her dual talents in prose and visual storytelling.
As both author and illustrator, Analeigh infuses her work with vivid imagery—whether describing a library hidden in living trees or capturing the nuanced expressions of her characters. Readers can expect more magical worlds from her in the future.