I am grateful for the opportunity to review the ARC audiobook for Wished.

Unfortunately, I did not have an overall good time with this book. It took me a long time because I didn't want to pick it up. The writing and prose was done well and a few moments were very cute and immersive, but that's about the only thing I enjoyed.
I didn't enjoy the insta-love aspect which seemed to take place for both characters whether it was magic induced (with a flaw so why did he fall so fast? It was only supposed to be a week) or love at first sight. And it didn't quite make sense to me that in a later chapter, our FMC said "oh no, I've fallen in love with him" when the whole premise of the book is that she's in love with him and so she makes a wish to marry him.
I feel the plot was very cute, bright and shiny, while also having at least one plot hole that was never solved. Why did the wish not work on him fully the first time and he was the only one? It worked on everyone else so why would he still remember?
I felt like Anna's inner monolog also ripped me out of the story at points for the questionable things she decided to focus on in the moment (like waking up in a strangers bed, which would be a big deal to figure out, but she's very focused on the silk on her nipples...) and for the absurd mental gymnastics trying to get herself to believe she got drunk enough to go back to an ex-employers house and fall asleep there... I've been drunk, and I don't think that's how it works for anyone and seems self deluded or (sorry) naive to the point of dumb. I wish for characters who make wishes and then understand what they've done.
Also Max was a little too good hearted for a billionaire, I don't think there are any billionaires who would go back and return a penny just cause it would inconvenience the worker.
Anyway. I need to write the review for this to increase my percentage on netgalley and it's very unfortunate that I didn't like this book very much.

I'm a sucker for European romance stories and Wished by Sarah Ready fit the bill perfectly taking us from Geneva to Paris, to the south of France. It is the story of Anna, a hopeless romantic looking for her happily ever after, but the man for whom she's fallen head over heels for is her employer, Max, she is one of his housecleaners. One day Anna made a wish and it seemed that her dream came true, they were madly, passionately in love, or were they? Anna is the type of character that you love from the start, while Max first came across as a complete jerk, but as the story went on he became lovable as well. This is an enchanting, engrossing story that I fully enjoyed.

Wished is a fun, whimsical romance with a bit of magic. It’s fourth in a series, but much like previous installments, it works just as well as a standalone. It makes for a nice light read whenever you just need a touch of magic and a gentle (if slightly spicy) romance.

Amanda Ronconi and Will Watt did an excellent job narrating the audiobook.

Thank you Sarah Ready, Swift & Lewis Publishing LLC, and NetGalley for providing this ARC for review consideration. All opinions expressed are my own.

First a big thanks to the Author, the Publisher and Netgalley for this ARC.

So, I really needed some time to get into this one.
I found Max not so sympathetic (both here and in Fated) and he really needed to grow on me.
Wasn't a fan of Anna either.
So I was really glad I got the ARC for the Audiobook, although I wasn't a fan of the voices or accents either, It was A LOT easier. Otherwise, this might have been a DNF for me.

The book still delivered on entertainment, and I found it interesting how it explored the idea of getting what you wish for, only to question everything about it including what love really means and if it could actually be real.

I think there was a bit of a twist. But overall the storyline went exactly where I thought it would go.
I did like Fated more, the characters where a bit more likable and there where "more" twist and turns.

Notes:
We first met Max in Fated, so it might be a good idea to read that one.
I was a bit confused when Max listed a couple of names, I've never heard of, at the end of the book.
Turns out these where the couples of books one and two. (had to check Goodreads for that one...)

Overall I did enjoy it but if Goodreads would have let me, it would have been a 2.5 out of 5 stars.

I'm thrilled with this story and would highly recommend it to anyone who enjoys likable characters, scenic settings, a hint of magic, and two fantastic voice actors. It was an amazing story—definitely 5 stars!

Wished is a whimsical romance that takes you on a charming journey through love, wishes and the complex desires. Anna Benoit is a helpless romantic whose wishes seem to be coming true after she makes a wish about her employer that she cleans for, Max Barone. But when her wish comes true where does that leave Max, because this wasn't his wish or reality. Sarah Ready is always the best at writing well-rounded romance that leaves you with little hearts in your eyes. If you ever wished upon a star or just made a wish this book is for you!

*I also listened to this book and loved the narration by Amanda Ronconi and Will Watt was just what this book needed. They did a wonderful job of bringing this book to life.

Title: Wished
Author: Sarah Ready
Series: Ghosted # 4
Format: 🎧
Narrators: Amanda Ronocni and Will Watt
Publisher: Swift and Lewis Publishing LLC ~ Member of the ‘Independent Book Publishers Association’ (IBPA)
Genre: Romance, Women’s Fiction
Pub Date was: October 1, 2024
My Rating: 3.2
Pages: 346

I usual state – ‘I am not a big romance fan, However, I do like sweet romance stories one that~ gives the sense that things are going to get better – the hope of something to look forward to.
Plus I do like author, Sarah Ready - this is my eighth novel.
My favorites were " Josh and Gemma Make a Baby " as well as "Josh and Gemma Second Time Around" which were laugh-at-loud and such fun reads. Also liked " The Space Between' as well as " French Holiday". - So YES! I do love Sarah Ready’s stories.

This is Book #4 in the Ghosted series. I have read the other three – I enjoyed two and since I loved Josh and Gemma I was hopeful the humor that was in the series will pop up in this series.

This story starts with billionaire Max Barone, heir to a jewelry empire who is told his wife is waiting for him. However, he is surprised by this as he isn’t married.
Turns out Anna his house cleaner Anna makes a wish that she and Max were married and in love. She doesn’t realize that she made the wish while cleaning his grandmother’s heirloom necklace that is reported to have magical powers.

One reader’s recommendation that had me saying okay – one more go at this series!
This book is exactly the kind of light wishy romance it sounds like it'd be, for a very simple story, for a great comfort book to read when you
need something new that is still very familiar.

This statement made me laugh and I thought okay since I love magic as well as a sweet romance - I’ll go for it.

I do have a great imagination; however, Ms. Ready’s descriptions are great. I completely enjoyed her telling of the beautiful areas visited, I totally felt like I was there- especially Paris as I have never been.
Although I do love and enjoy a sweet rom-com - I don’t love raunch-com – IMO what goes on in bedrooms (or other intimate place) is private and I don’t need to hear or read about it.

I did like the narrators. I have listened to Will Watts’s performance in the Enchanted Highlands Scottish series and he was great! His accent usually adds to the story.

Want to thank NetGalley and Swift and Lewis Publishing LLC - Member of the ‘Independent Book Publishers Association’ (IBPA) for granted me this audiobook.
Publishing Release Date was October 1, 2024.

⭐⭐⭐⭐
🌶️🌶️.5

This was a cute book. I didn't love it as much as I loved Fated, but I still enjoyed it. Only 4 stars instead of 5 because the insta-love (on Anna's end) in this book was too much for me. I loved the audio; Amanda Ronconi is an excellent narrator.

Thank you to Swift and Lewis Publishing and NetGalley for the ARC of Wished.

4.5 rounded down to 4.

Sarah Ready makes you feel like you're wherever her characters are. Her descriptions are so vivid and clear she takes you along on the journey with her.

Anna and Max were adorable. I didn't immediately feel they belonged together which made their ending all the more special. I loved their roller coaster relationship and it truly was a surprise on which timeline they would end up in. I didn't think it was an automatic given!

How does Sarah come up with her magical ideas? They're always so fresh and complicated in the best possible way. And epilogues make me so happy!

The narration was stellar. I loved both of the narrators! And I wanted so much more of Max's deep, low, masculine voice.

4.75 beautiful stars!! I dock .25 for teasing me with Will Watt as a narrator, and having him honestly doing only about 5% of the overall story.
This book had such an interesting concept, and I absolutely ate it up! Wishes, alternate reality, love, more love, THE SPICIEST OF SPICES, and just a dash of sadness. I felt the feels, laughed along, and “awe” swooned in all the right places.
Anna was a very likeable and relatable character, and Amanda Ronconis narration was stunning. Her accents were delivered delicately, which I really respect. Nobody wants to hear ridiculous, and obviously faked and forced, French accents. Her narration of Max, in, um, “those scenes”, was delicious lol. I definitely got a bit warm under the collar.
Max. Oh Max, what can I say about him? My emotions ran the gamut with this man. In the beginning, I was super anti Max Barone. He was kind of a grump, but not even in a cute way? Who wants a guy that is against passion and love?! Well, spoiler, it’s Anna. And me, eventually lol. Will Watts narration at the end had me 100% sure of my utter devotion to this man, hearts in my eyes, the whole bit.
As a whole, I absolutely loved this book. You do not have to have read the other books in this series to love and appreciate this one. Narration is excellent, story is entertaining and engaging. Well done!

I wanted to check out what NetGalley’s audiobook app is like and picked “Wished” to do it with. The blurb sounded intriguing, and while I’d heard of the author, this was my first time reading (or in this case, listening to) her work. It was also my first introduction to the two narrators.

Since this is book 4 in a series, I wasn’t sure what to expect and was slightly worried, but I got lucky. For several reasons. The story is set in Switzerland—how unusual is that—and France. The plot had enough twists to keep me engaged, even when the story slowed down. The romance? At first, I wasn’t sure about it because I—just like the female lead—never could be sure what feelings were real. But the author included plenty of moments that were beautiful, heartfelt, and romantic. Enough to satisfy me. Be aware though, there are several spicy scenes. I could have done without the last one, but that’s just a personal preference. I’m sure other readers and listeners will think differently.

Most importantly, I loved the two narrators. Amanda Ronconi carries the story, gave it her all, and completely won me over. I loved all of her voices—male, female, old, young. She brought out the emotions of every character with such authenticity that I couldn’t help experiencing them myself. What a great pick, especially since she narrates most of the book.

Now, for fans of Will Watt, this might come as a disappointment—he only makes two guest appearances. Both were wonderful to listen to, though. Still, I wish the author had included more scenes from the male lead’s perspective so I could have enjoyed his performance longer (and it would have added another layer to the story too).

Overall, I’m really pleased with my choice. I’d happily recommend it to anyone looking for likable characters, picturesque settings, a touch of magic, and of course, two excellent voice actors.

✨ Story: 4 stars
✨ Narration: 5 stars

Wished by Sarah Ready is a delightful exploration of love, longing, and the unexpected magic that can reshape our lives. Initially, I approached the book with some reservations, particularly regarding its magical elements. However, I quickly discovered that the enchantment woven into the narrative serves as a beautiful backdrop for a deeply human story.

The romance is tender and beautifully developed, showcasing the nuances of falling in love. Ready's writing captures the bittersweet moments of connection and vulnerability, making it easy to root for Max and Anna as they confront their own hesitations and uncertainties.

What truly surprised me was how the magical element, which I initially found off-putting, became a poignant metaphor for the characters’ transformations. It’s a reminder that sometimes, the most extraordinary experiences can emerge from the ordinary, and that love often requires a leap of faith.

Overall, Wished is a heartwarming read that ultimately celebrates the magic of human connection. If you’re willing to embrace its whimsical elements, you’ll find yourself swept up in a story that resonates long after the last page is turned. I’m so glad I pushed through my initial doubts—this book left me with a smile and a renewed belief in the power of love. Highly recommended for anyone looking for a charming romance that feels both real and fantastical.

4.5 stars and my favourite yet of the ghosted series. They can all be read as stand alone for sure although the male main character is a significant side character in the previous book 'Fated'.
Ever wished upon...anything? Anna used to wish she was a genie when she was younger and so when she makes a wish that her employer, the oh so sophisticated jewellery mogul Max Barron, were married to her and oh soo in love, she never in a million years think that it would come true, especially since the aforementioned employer has just fired her.
But voila the next day she wakes up in a strange but luxurious bed and is suddenly being called Mrs Barron!!
This loveable story about wishes coming true and would you try to reverse your wish or live it out will have you grinning from ear to ear. Max is charming and loveable with his no nonsense approach to life. From Geneva, to Paris to Saint Tropez this delightful conundrum is sure to please
The audiobook is narrated by a female and male (oh such a posh voice! Silky smooth!) And they both do a fabulous job. My only titbit criticism is that the female narrator conveyed more emotion when reading out Max's parts than Anna's which I thought was strange.
I read and listened to this book in tandem thanks to copies provided by Swift & Lewis publishing via NetGalley. All opinions are my own.

This is the second book I’ve read from this author and I have to say, I love how easy these books are to read.

They’re super cute, super unique and a nice little sweet palate cleanser to fly through.

I listened to the audio version of this book and really loved the narrators, I’ll be searching for more books for both of them. They did a fantastic job at portraying the characters and their emotions, being harsh when they need to be and lighthearted and jovial at other times.

Absolutely loved it!! Love this author and will keep her on my rotation.

Thank you NetGalley for providing me with a free audio copy of this book

*thank you to NetGalley and Swift & Lewis Publishing for an eARC of this book in exchange for my review*

Another perfect romance from Sarah Ready. This one felt like something straight out of my daydreams. The kind of magical realism that you always kind of hope actually exists. And the narrators were incredible!! The listening experience of this book is so good!

Much to my surprise, I wasn’t sold on Anna or Max right away. Even after Max’s sweet introduction in the last book. Honestly, the situation felt so impossible at first that I was struggling to see how a love story could come out of it at all, but I guess Ready knows how to write an impossible love story! Because once I was hooked, I was hanging onto every word. It is a pseudo insta-love kind of story, but in a good way. I am typically very anti-insta-love. But this one is done RIGHT.

In this story, both Anna and Max had personal obstacles to overcome, and per usual, Ready handles it with so much grace. Though we primarily get to see things from Anna’s POV, we learn quite a bit about Max—how he thinks and how he’s motivated. It was fascinating to see Ready’s writing shine in that particular way—she is SO good at single POV. But the prologue and epilogue from Max were so good too!!

Also, I have no clue how much travel Ready has done in her life, but her descriptions of places are intensely good and feel so realistic. I can always see them clearly in my mind’s eye. I just love it.

If you’ve ever wished that you could make wishes come true (for you or someone else), this might be a good fit for you!

3.5 Stars

I've been loving this entire Ghosted series and the premise of Wished was very intriguing.

Anna & Max's before-the-wish and after-the-wish stories were both believable and I suffered along with both of them as they faced the dilemmas that the Wish created.

My first audiobook from Sarah Ready and I enjoyed, I found the male reader quite distracting didn't enjoy so much but I enjoyed the story and the magical elements of it.

Don't we all wish we could have a magical wish. It was nice to see the relationship change and I am going to read the other books on the series.

Thank you to NetGalley for the ARC in return of my
Honest review.

Thank you NetGalley and publisher for this ARC audiobook for an honest review.

This is book four in the "ghosted series." Sarah Ready has such a genius mind imagining these worlds filled with magical realism and romance. Each of the books in the series has such a varying and unique plotline. I have read all the books in the series (recommend!), but you could read this as a standalone even though our male lead, Max, was a supporting character in the last book.

Honestly, this book started off a little bit iffy...the initial introduction of our couple and the inner voice of Max immediately took on a sexual tone which I did not appreciate. I knew I enjoyed this author in the past, so I carried on and I am glad that I did. If I could take out the spice in the book and have Anna's view of Max be a little less insta-lovey, I could say I adored everything else!

We have Anna who has been cleaning (and loving) Max from afar for years. While cleaning, she comes across a necklace that says it grants wishes...and she makes a wish that she would be married to Max and that he loves her. Enter Max moments later to accuse her of stealing the necklace which somehow ends up in her pocket. He bans her from his house, she is fired, and it appears the wish was not granted...

Until the next day, when Anna wakes up in a life where she has been married to Max for 7 years. It was a fun, sweet (sometimes bittersweet!) journey that Max and Anna navigate as they initially try to undo the wish and then hearts and minds start having other ideas.

I loved the Max in love who opened his heart! That life with Anna was so lovely. Of course, we have to throw in some angst before the happily ever after, but everything was worth it at the end. Smile...

The narrators did a good job bringing to life the characters!

3.5 stars

Every book in this series by Sarah Ready is so so good. I’ve enjoyed them all and it’s been such a pleasure to read them. They are such sweet romances but also so very unique! The ideas are so original but come together so well, it’s honestly super impressive. This one fit right in and I loved the main characters. I loved their romance story and the “what ifs” that came with it too. Highly recommend this series to anyone looking for something cute but a tad different.

Another magical installment of the Ghosted series.

I didn't care for Max's character in Fated; he seemed too serious and flat. But perhaps that was because he wasn't the fit for Fiona, and was waiting for his own love story. A story which begins tumultuously, when a housekeeper tries to steal an invaluable family heirloom.
Wait, no, back it up.
Anna IS a housekeeper, but she's no thief. She's worked as a cleaner at the Barone estate for three years, and has been in love with him at first sight. Well, her first sight. Max seems to look right past her, hardly noticing her existence. That is, until one day when Anna is cleaning the library and finds a beautiful sapphire necklace sitting in its case on the desk. A centuries-old note is with it, promising to grant your wish. Feeling foolish, Anna speaks her secret desire: to not only be loved by Max Barone, but to be married to him. Of course, this is when the man himself sees Anna with the necklace, and assumes the worst.
Until the next morning, when Anna awakes in Max's bed, wearing Max's wedding ring, and with Max's last name. She has no recollection of how she got here, but it seems everyone else in the world remembers the last seven years of the Barones' epic love story. Anna got her wish, but is it happily ever after?

I enjoyed this book quite a but, but perhaps not as much as the first three. That could be that the previous books had a true life-or-death element to the end, raising the stakes before the inevitable happy resolution. This story arc felt a little flatter, but just a well written. Still a solid 4 stars.