Review: The Wicked Lies of Habren Faire by Anna Fiteni

*I received an advance reading copy of this book from Hachette Book Group Canada in exchange for an honest review.

The Wicked Lies of Habren Faire

by Anna Fiteni

August 28, 2025

Goodreads Summary:

An enchanting romantasy debut about a girl who must strike a dangerous bargain with a prince of fairy in order to find her missing sister, perfect for fans of Margaret Rogerson and Lexi Ryan.

For Sabrina Parry, the world of her small, Welsh mining town is cruel and practical. Her main aims in life are to hold onto her job, hold her tongue, and marry off her pretty, but sickly sister Ceridwen to a man rich enough to look after her.

When Ceridwen vanishes into the woods leaving only an iron ring behind, it’s up to Sabrina to find her by venturing into Eu Gwald—fairyland.

Sabrina quickly realizes fairyland is far more dangerous than she ever expected. So when a fae prince who considers himself a scholar of all things human offers her a dangerous deal, Sabrina is forced to accept. The prince is charming, and more interested in Sabrina than she is willing to believe. But as always with fairy bargains, there is a cost.

And if this bargain doesn’t cost Sabrina her life, it will certainly cost her heart.

Review

The Wicked Lies of Habren Faire was quite a short book page-wise but the story came full circle in a meaningful and fulfilling way. A small part of me wish we had more time to get to know the characters better in their melancholy yet hopeful world.

As the main character in The Wicked Lies of Habren Faire, Sabrina was very dynamic. She didn’t hesitate to go after her missing sister. Always a believer, Sabrina adapted quickly when she found out about fairyland. Her fierce attitude carried her far. Despite all the grief and sadness, what she accomplished with her sister was truly beautiful.

Sabrina and Neirin’s romance in The Wicked Lies of Habren Faire was a little questionable but I enjoyed their volatility. From their first meeting, both knew the other couldn’t be trusted. Their mutual distrust allowed them to fully be themselves in front of each other. “…and all the best lies sprout from a seed of truth.” (p. 51) Both were surprised by the feelings they developed but Sabrina and Neirin made sense in a macabre sort of way.

The author’s writing style was interesting as she spoke directly to the reader and foretold the future in some parts of the story. It made The Wicked Lies of Habren Faire an even more unique experience.

*I received a copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own and not affected in any way. Any quotes included in my review were taken from the copy I received.