Wretched by Emily Mcintire
Emily McIntire’s Wretched is a dark, delicious, and masterfully written modern-day reimagining of The Wizard of Oz. This installment of the Never After series flips the beloved story on its head, delivering a morally gray heroine who unapologetically takes center stage.
In Wretched, we meet Evelina Westerly, a sharp, calculating woman who operates in the dangerous world of crime. She’s ruthless, cunning, and entirely unforgettable. McIntire pulls no punches with Evelina’s character; she’s not the damsel in distress but rather the storm everyone should fear. This morally ambiguous protagonist challenges the traditional boundaries of a heroine, making her as magnetic as she is dangerous.
Enter Nicholas Woodsworth, an undercover agent sent to dismantle the very empire Evelina rules over. Their chemistry is palpable from the moment they meet, a slow-burn combination of desire and distrust that will leave readers breathless. Nicholas is everything Evelina isn’t: controlled, methodical, and driven by justice. But as their worlds collide, the lines between duty and desire blur, leading to a steamy, tension-filled relationship that keeps the pages turning.
McIntire’s writing is cinematic and evocative, balancing gritty action with moments of raw vulnerability. She masterfully weaves nods to The Wizard of Oz—from the ruby-red dress to the clever incorporation of familiar characters reimagined in darker, unexpected ways. These subtle details enrich the story without overpowering it, making it a standalone masterpiece that doesn’t rely on its source material.
What sets Wretched apart is its exploration of themes like power, morality, and redemption. Evelina’s journey is a deep dive into the complexities of human nature, proving that even in the darkest souls, a spark of light can exist. And while her story is steeped in darkness, there’s a cathartic beauty to her unapologetic ambition and the choices she makes in a world designed to swallow her whole.
For fans of morally gray characters, forbidden romance, and dark, twisty plots, Wretched delivers in every way imaginable. Emily McIntire continues to prove her talent for crafting addictive, emotionally charged stories that linger long after the final page.
Whether you’re a fan of retellings or just love a dark romance with teeth, Wretched is a must-read. Evelina Westerly will stay with you long after you leave the Emerald City behind.