Anyone who knows me knows that I don’t tend to do horror. So despite the rave reviews I’ve heard about Kerri Maniscalco I hadn’t picked up any of her books. Her earlier series titled Stalking Jack The Ripper is something I remain unfamiliar with. But the world of bookstagram is truly a rabbit hole. And as Alice, unable to resist temptation, I fell into these books because of all the fanart and fanfiction that was circling the net. And I’m so so glad I did.

I wouldn’t describe this series as horror but high fantasy. The first in a trilogy, Kingdom of the Wicked follows protagonist Emilia Maria Di Carlo a young witch residing in Italy with her family. Emilia has been warned by her Nonna of the Malvagi or the Wicked, Seven Demon princes from Hell who are dangerous to witches. When Emilia’s twin Vittoria is brutally murdered, she sets out on a vicious journey in desire of revenge, going so far as to summon a demon of Hell. Prince Wrath.

Let me begin by pointing out that the world-building is aboslutely marvellous. From the very first line you are immersed in Sicily. The writing lets you luxuriate in Italy. One of the things I enjoyed most about this book was the setting and the description of food. The way Emilia cooks actually made me hungry while reading. The description of the orange peel infused wine to the roasted cloves of garlic with fresh crackling bread, pestos and sauces and desserts. All of it was done absolutely perfectly and that description and world-building above anything else is what made the book a five star read for me.

I liked how vulnerable Emilia was. A lot of the time I find fantasy heroines to be slightly unrelatable in terms of how quickly they get over reality and transition into badass fairytale characters. I liked that Emilia took time to grow up. Her anger and lack of control of it really made her a realistic hero for the story, and by the end of it her growth felt like it was on the right trajectory. She was still learning but she was definitely a stronger character.

The rest of the characters were also well written and played a well enough role in the story. I loved Wrath. Introduced with a classic hate-to-love trope, I really enjoyed the banter between them. There’s enough romantic tension between both Wrath and Emilia, but they also have just enough edge to keep things entertaining. And the build up of their relationship in this book allows for their to be greater fulfillment in the next one.

I was surprised at how the mystery was resolved which I believe is a good thing for a murder mystery. You are kept guessing until the end.

Basically this was a five star read and I can’t wait to dive into the next installment. I need to know where Emilia and Wrath’s story is going to go.

Hundred percent recommend!