Review: A Taste of Tea and Tenderness by Gabrielle Landi

SYNOPSIS

A pinch of fake dating, a dash of fundraiser mayhem, and a love that rises when their future is on the line.

Running the Cozy Cat Café while its owner is away would have been enough work, but apprentice Linnea added another complication: catering the local school’s fundraiser. Surviving the week seems debatable…until the quiet schoolteacher she might be falling for offers to help her. Faking a relationship to avoid one of his students is only the icing on the cinnamon roll.

Conrad hasn’t been able to take his eyes off Linnea since he first saw her, and the fact that she’s on her own with the cafe for a week seems like the perfect opportunity to show her how much he cares. But with more suitors vying for her hand, an encounter with a hive of bees gone wrong, and clingy students that he can’t shake, proving that he’s the man for her is turning out to be more work than he expected.

Between batches of pastries and mugs of tea, can Conrad and Linnea's fake relationship rise to the occasion, or will they both end up burned?

A Taste of Tea and Tenderness, a no spice fairy tale retelling of Thumbelina, is a standalone novella, complete with tropes such as fake dating, he falls first, and wound tending. It is part of The Enchanting Confections series, a collection of clean and cozy stories guaranteed to delight your sweet tooth. Perfect for fans of whimsical fairytale romance, cozy Hallmark vibes, and sweet & swoony heroes.

Amazon / Goodreads

MY THOUGHTS

This was a really sweet and cozy read. It’s a Thumbelina retelling, which was fun. I haven’t read many of those.

Linnea is taking care of the Cafe for a little while. Even though she was intimidated, I loved seeing her commitment to it. I thought her and Conrad were very sweet together. I appreciated having both of their POVs.

I love the world of Galamere and always enjoy revisiting it and its characters again. This is standalone, though, so if you haven’t read any of Landi’s other books, you’ll be able to dive right in.

While there wasn’t much conflict or tension, this was still an enjoyable read. It’s perfect if you’re looking for a very cozy, non-stressful read. I look forward to reading the author's next book!

I received a copy of this book and voluntarily reviewed it. All thoughts and comments are my honest opinion.

THREE STARS

Review: Lady Agatha Speaks Her Mind by Elisabeth Aimee Brown

SYNOPSIS
If anyone else had been her fairy godmother, Lady Agatha’s birthday party would have gone swimmingly.

It really wasn’t Agatha’s fault that she insulted all those guests. After preparing for years to receive a select list of suitors for her charming, fairy-blessed hand, the last thing she wanted to do was alienate the lot of them … but her godmother’s final gift was, well, difficult to control. Now her father doesn’t care that she didn’t mean to call the visiting foreign prince a pathetic little fungus—the damage has been done.

Prince Limplemoyne would’ve been more offended if he was actually attending the party to court Agatha, but that’s not what brought him to these backwoods, fairy-infested mountains. He just wants to find a godmother powerful enough to free him from the royal life he never asked for. But when a mischievous fairy answers his plea in an unexpected way, he finds himself suddenly stuck with the beautiful, sharp-tongued Lady Agatha. Fairies can’t help them get out of this unwanted alliance—they’ll have to stop bickering long enough to figure it out on their own.

Lady Agatha Speaks Her Mind is a no-spice, standalone reimagining of King Thrushbeard, perfect for readers who like both whimsy and comedy in their mutually-annoyed-strangers-to-lovers romance.

Amazon / Goodreads

MY THOUGHTS

This book was so much fun! I was a big fan of Brown’s debut novel, What Comes of Attending the Commoners Ball, so this was one of my most anticipated reads this year. It was an absolute blast to read! It’s a King Thrushbeard retelling. I’m not super familiar with that fairy tale, but that didn’t hinder my enjoyment one bit. I loved it!

Neither main character was very likable in the beginning, which is usually a big turnoff for me, but it somehow worked really well here. They were awful in the most humorous and entertaining way. Plus, it was great seeing their character growth.

I thought it was really interesting how Agatha got a fairy gift on her birthday up to her 21st. And that 21st Gift was a doozy, lol! It caused all kinds of chaos! I thought Agatha’s fairy godmother was a hoot!

This was a really fun read. It had a lot of depth alongside the humor, too, which I really appreciated. I highly recommend it to anyone who enjoys no-spice fantasy.

I received a copy of this book and voluntarily reviewed it. All thoughts and comments are my honest opinion.

FOUR STARS

Book Beginnings, First Line Friday, & Friday 56: Lady Agatha Speaks Her Mind by Elisabeth Aimee Brown

Book Beginnings is a weekly meme hosted by Rose City Reader that asks you to share the first sentence (or so) of the book you're reading. I'm also linking up with Carrie at Reading is My Superpower for First Line Friday. Friday 56 asks you to grab a book (any book), turn to page 56 or 56% in your ereader and share a non-spoilery sentence or two. It was started by Freda at Freda's Voice, but Anne over at My Head is Full of Books has taken over for the time being.

This week I'm featuring Lady Agatha Speaks Her Mind by Elisabeth Aimee Brown. It releases today and I was lucky enough to receive an ARC. It was such a fun read! 

SYNOPSIS

If anyone else had been her fairy godmother, Lady Agatha’s birthday party would have gone swimmingly.

It really wasn’t Agatha’s fault that she insulted all those guests. After preparing for years to receive a select list of suitors for her charming, fairy-blessed hand, the last thing she wanted to do was alienate the lot of them … but her godmother’s final gift was, well, difficult to control. Now her father doesn’t care that she didn’t mean to call the visiting foreign prince a pathetic little fungus—the damage has been done.

Prince Limplemoyne would’ve been more offended if he was actually attending the party to court Agatha, but that’s not what brought him to these backwoods, fairy-infested mountains. He just wants to find a godmother powerful enough to free him from the royal life he never asked for. But when a mischievous fairy answers his plea in an unexpected way, he finds himself suddenly stuck with the beautiful, sharp-tongued Lady Agatha. Fairies can’t help them get out of this unwanted alliance—they’ll have to stop bickering long enough to figure it out on their own.

Lady Agatha Speaks Her Mind is a no-spice, standalone reimagining of King Thrushbeard, perfect for readers who like both whimsy and comedy in their mutually-annoyed-strangers-to-lovers romance.

Book Beginnings / First Line Friday

"If only Melusine hadn't been your fairy godmother," Father says, "then we wouldn't have to worry about it." He stares out the window, glum despite the cheerful dancing of the late-spring leaves outside and the gentle breeze that carries in the scent of apple blossoms and honeysuckle.

Friday 56

This journey would probably be more pleasant if we could converse more, but I'm afraid of what I'll say if I open my mouth too often.

What have you been reading lately?

Review: The Star-Blessed by Angie Dickinson

About the Book

Three legendary origins of power. Two royal bloodlines. One deadly curse.

The kingdom of Stelauris is slowly dying. A season of poison infects the air, earth, and water with increasing deadliness each year, and a deep love of gold and power infects the failing mind of the king. His only daughter and first in line to the throne, Princess Seren, lives in tightly controlled isolation. When she is suddenly thrust into royal society, she struggles to hide the strain of untamed magic awakening in her blood.

Seren’s newly appointed personal guard, Sir Corin, resents the exile of his people. As heir to a long-banished line of succession and the last of the land’s legendary protectors, he holds no loyalty for the current royal family and their history of unhinged cruelty.

As death steals over the kingdom and the schemes at court grow deadlier, the princess and the guard are forced to face their fears, their troubled pasts, and the cost of personal freedom.

The Star-Blessed is a reimagining and reinventing of two fairy tales: “Rumpelstiltskin” and “Cat-Skin” by the Brothers Grimm.

Amazon / Barnes & Noble / Enclave Publishing Store / Goodreads

MY THOUGHTS

I always love a good fairytale retelling and I really enjoyed this one. This story reimagines Rumpelstiltskin and Catskin. I’m not familiar with Catskin, but Rumpelstiltskin is a favorite. I enjoyed seeing the nods to it.

I instantly felt for Seren. She was put in a new and stressful position. I thought she handled herself well, and I admired her strength and courage in the face of such daunting situations. I loved seeing her character growth throughout the story.

I was intrigued by Corin. There was a mysterious air about him, and I couldn’t figure out what to think of him at first. But I enjoyed getting to know him better.

There were some parts of the book that were unsettling and dark, but I thought it showed that Light will always overcome the darkness.

I became completely immersed in this story world. There were a few massive twists that I never saw coming. I was shocked! I look forward to reading more from Angie Dickinson. She’s quickly becoming one of my favorite authors.

I received a copy of this book and voluntarily reviewed it. All thoughts and comments are my honest opinion.

FOUR STARS

Review: Beastly Dreams by Gabrielle Landi

SYNOPSIS

A grumpy tavern owner, his sunshine barmaid, and the curse that traps them together.

Running his grandfather's tavern is all Roan ever wanted--though the failing budget wasn't part of the dream. But when a rogue sorcerer curses him, sending everyone into a magical sleep except Roan, his too-cheerful barmaid, and his loyal dog, his priorities shift fast: break the curse before he loses everything.

Abigail has never felt safer than she does at the Lucky Goat, despite how miserable Roan is at times, and she'll do anything to keep her found home intact. At first, an opportunity to tackle the never ending to-do list without distractions seems almost like a blessing, but the pressure of hiding her own magic--and pretending she isn't falling for her grumpy boss--is a whole different kind of trouble,.

Trapped together in the tavern, Roan and Abigail begin to discover that opposites attract...but when the magic unravels, will breaking the curse also break the spark between them?

Torn from one fairytale and trapped in another: the Displaced Fairytales series is a multi-author fairy tale retelling series of standalones from your favorite clean and closed-door young adult romance authors. BEASTLY DREAMS is Beauty and the Beast meets Sleeping Beauty with clean and wholesome forced proximity, a grumpy sunshine boss romance, and an adorable dog companion.

Amazon / Goodreads / Author Website

MY THOUGHTS

This was a really sweet, quick read. It’s a mashup of Sleeping Beauty and Beauty and the Beast. I love those fairytales, so I was very intrigued to see them intertwined. I thought it was really well done! I really enjoyed it.

Abigail was cheerful and likable, the perfect foil to grumpy Roan. Roan wasn’t the most likable of characters, but his growth from the beginning of the story to the end was great to see. And I absolutely adored his dog Beastie.

While this book is set in Galamere, the world where the author’s other books are set, it can stand alone perfectly fine. I did enjoy seeing the cameos from characters from her previous books, but don’t worry if you haven’t read those stories yet. I highly recommend this book to fans of closed-door fairytale retellings. I can’t wait to see what this author writes next!

I received a copy of this book and voluntarily reviewed it. All thoughts and comments are my honest opinion.

FOUR STARS

Review: Bellarose and the Captain (The Aerowyn Tales Book 3) by Carla Reighard

About the Book

Heroic rescues.
Revenge and reckonings.
A sassy dragon.

Bookworm Bellarose, heroic Gerard, brave Quinn, and mysterious Elayne continue to play out familiar, but twisted fairy tales with only Bellarose having flashes of memory from the real world.

After the heroic rescue by the stringent Captain Modo, Bellarose thinks she’s safe. She’s not. Aerowyn’s enemies know the enchantress has been using Bellarose and the adversaries stop at nothing to thwart those plans. What or who will it take to fix the distorted stories and return the teens to their own world? An unpredictable and irrevocable price will be paid to reach the conclusion to this trilogy with several happily ever after endings.

Amazon / Goodreads / Author Website

MY THOUGHTS

What a fantastic conclusion to this series! I absolutely adored it! I started reading it immediately after I finished the previous book. I had to find out what happened to these characters! It exceeded my very high expectations.

This was the fastest paced story of the series. It took many surprising turns that I didn’t see coming. And I had a difficult time putting it down.

I really enjoyed seeing how much the characters grew throughout the series. And I loved the messages woven in about how looks can be deceiving and it’s always good to look behind the surface to the real person hiding beneath.

I really came to love these characters and was sad to say goodbye. But what a fun adventure! I know I’ll want to reread this series again and again. It was so good! If you’re a fan of twisted fairytales, don’t hesitate to grab a copy! You’ll love it!

I received a copy of this book and voluntarily reviewed it. All thoughts and comments are my honest opinion.

FIVE STARS

Review: Bellarose and the Pirate (The Aerowyn Tales Book 2) by Carla Reighard

About the Book

Pirate ship.
Sea witch crafted typhoons.
Mermaids.

Bookworm Bellarose, less egotistical Gerard, insecure Quinn, and mysterious Elayne continue to live inside a fairy tale. This time Bellarose has been kidnapped by an infamous pirate with a hooked hand.

They still have no memories of their real world as each teen is forced to play out an adventure—some aboard a ship and some on an exotic island. Dangers surround them as they battle mythical creatures and face inner demons. Since Aerowyn’s curses have caused the stories to be warped, villains who should not have existed are thwarting the enchantress’s plans to fix the tales with no end in sight.

Amazon / Goodreads / Author Website

MY THOUGHTS

What a wonderful continuation of the story that started in Bellarose and the Beast. I was so excited to dive back into this world and see what these characters would encounter next. It did not disappoint. I was completely immersed in it. The real world faded away, and I was right there in the middle of the story too.

This story reimagines Peter Pan and the Little Mermaid. I loved the nods to the original tale but also loved how unique it was too.

I loved revisiting the characters from the first book but also enjoyed meeting the new ones too. Jasper was a complex character. A dastardly pirate with a tough exterior, but every once in a while, he showed his compassionate side. Not often, but I really enjoyed seeing glimpses of the man he could be.

I enjoyed getting all the different POVs. Sometimes when there are multiple perspectives, it can get hard to tell whose it is. But that was not the case here. They were all distinctive, and it was easy to know who was who.

I'm so excited to start the next book to see how this fantastic series concludes. I highly, highly recommend this book to fans of fairytale retellings. Be sure to start with book one!

I received a copy of this book and voluntarily reviewed it. All thoughts and comments are my honest opinion.

FIVE STARS

Book Beginnings, First Line Friday, & Friday 56: Bellarose and the Pirate (The Aerowyn Tales Book 2) by Carla Reighard

Book Beginnings is a weekly meme hosted by Rose City Reader that asks you to share the first sentence (or so) of the book you're reading. I'm also linking up with Carrie at Reading is My Superpower for First Line Friday. Friday 56 asks you to grab a book (any book), turn to page 56 or 56% in your ereader and share a non-spoilery sentence or two. It was started by Freda at Freda's Voice, but Anne over at My Head is Full of Books has taken over for the time being.

This week I'm featuring Bellarose and the Pirate (The Aerowyn Tales Book 2) by Carla Reighard. This whole series releases November 11. I'm hoping to have my reviews up for this one and book 3 sometime next week. If you're interested in my thoughts on book one, check out my post here.

About the Book

Pirate ship.
Sea witch crafted typhoons.
Mermaids.

Bookworm Bellarose, less egotistical Gerard, insecure Quinn, and mysterious Elayne continue to live inside a fairy tale. This time Bellarose has been kidnapped by an infamous pirate with a hooked hand.

They still have no memories of their real world as each teen is forced to play out an adventure—some aboard a ship and some on an exotic island. Dangers surround them as they battle mythical creatures and face inner demons. Since Aerowyn’s curses have caused the stories to be warped, villains who should not have existed are thwarting the enchantress’s plans to fix the tales with no end in sight.

Book Beginnings / First Line Friday

The day Jasper led a mutiny, a gentle breeze blew the Black Fear's sails, but the sea only stirred where the ship sliced through it. Jasper's racing heart thumped in his chest, but his grip remained steady on his knife's hilt. His bare feet made almost no sound while he approached Captain Starr as the pock-faced man glared at a pod of dolphins on the starboard side.

Friday 56

Intense sunlight cut through the tattered curtains and flared its rays into Jasper's eyes. He grunted, annoyed at the disturbance. The glinting light made his headache worse.

What have you been reading lately?

Review: Bellarose and the Beast (The Aerowyn Tales Book 1) by Carla Reighard

About the Book

Magical Library.
Distorted fairy tales.
Time travel.

Bookworm Bellarose, egotistical Gerard, geeky Quinn, and mysterious Elayne are thrust into a fairy tale through a magical library. The problem? Most of these eighteen-year-olds’ memories have been wiped clean of life before they became characters in a familiar, but twisted story.

In this first tale, despite insulting banter and recent grievances, Bellarose must join forces with Gerard to break the curse the enchantress Aerowyn has placed on a hexed plantation. The stakes? Those they care about will be cursed forever. The unknown price? They will be stuck inside the warped fairy tales where they may become the villains.

Amazon / Goodreads / Author Website

MY THOUGHTS

This was an absolute joy to read! It’s such a great Beauty and the Beast retelling. I loved all the nods to the original tale but really appreciated the originality of this story too.

Bellarose was really easy to like. She was a sympathetic character. I enjoyed the fact that we got Gerard’s point of view too. Since he was the “Gaston” character, I loved getting his backstory and seeing his character fully fleshed out.

I loved the whole premise of this story and thought it was really well executed. Who wouldn’t want to find a magical library and fall into a favorite book? What a dream!

I really enjoyed this story and am eager for the next one. If you’re a fan of fairytale retellings, grab a copy of this book! I highly recommend it!

I received a copy of this book and voluntarily reviewed it. All thoughts and comments are my honest opinion.

FIVE STARS

Review: Once Upon A Pumpkin (The Galamere Chronicles) by Gabrielle Landi

About the Book
A missing duchess, a stable boy, and a magical ball.

Years ago, Dietrich failed to prevent the disappearance of the Duke’s daughter, and the guilt has eaten at him ever since. His persistent searching has finally paid off, but now that he's found the missing girl, he doesn't know what to do. The obvious answer is to tell her father, but her plea to let her stay hidden leaves him torn between his duty to the Duke and the need to protect the girl he can't stop thinking about.

Trading in her apron for a ball gown is a terrifying prospect for Ella, but if it gives her the chance to leave her step family and find a family that truly loves her, she'll try. As Dietrich teaches her how to be a duchess, her feelings for him develop into something that hardly seems appropriate for a duchess and her father's stable master, leaving her wondering if rejoining the nobility is what she truly wants.

Can love transcend the limits they’ve imposed, or will Dietrich and Ella allow duty to reign supreme?

Once Upon A Pumpkin is a Cinderella fairytale retelling and the third book in the Galamere Chronicles. Each standalone book is a retelling of a beloved story or fairy tale, with the swoon-worthy sweet romance of a Hallmark movie, the wholesome and heartwarming feeling of cozy fantasy, and the comfort of a found family of friends, with a sprinkling of danger and a dash of magic. Perfect for fans of Sarah Beran and Allison Tebo.

Amazon / Goodreads / Author Website

MY THOUGHTS

This was a really cute and cozy Cinderella retelling. Cinderella has always been my favorite fairytale, so I loved seeing all the nods to it. I wished there had been a few more, but I still enjoyed it very much.

I love this group of friends. They might not always agree on everything, but they’re so supportive of one another.

I really liked Dietrich. It took me a little while to warm up to Ella, but I ended up liking her too.

I don’t want to spoil anything, so I’ll be vague, but I really appreciated the fact that something wasn’t drawn out. It was revealed and addressed quickly.

If you’re a fan of sweet fairytale retellings, I think you’ll really enjoy this story. While it’s a part of a series, it can stand alone. Though there are some backstories to some of the supporting characters that you might miss out on.

I received a copy of this book and voluntarily reviewed it. All thoughts and comments are my honest opinion.

FOUR STARS

DOUBLE COVER REVEAL: I Wish I May & Star Light Star Bright by Adelyn Belsterling

I'm so excited to be part of a double cover reveal today! Star Light Star Bright is releasing in November, and I Wish I May is getting a brand-new cover for the hardback edition! Aren't they gorgeous?! 

✨ I Wish I May is getting a hardcover format that will drop in June 2025
✨The hardcover will be jacketed with artwork printed on the hardcase underneath
✨ The hardcover will include bonus scenes from Imogen's perspective

✨ABOUT THE BOOK✨
"When happily ever after seems impossible, a fairy godmother finds a way…

Zelda Ravensdale has always wanted to be a fairy godmother, but before the training wings come off, she must convince wayward Prince Leo to keep his crown.

The search for Leo’s happily ever after leads them to a magical conspiracy involving a shoemaker, elves, and a dangerous consortium of magic thieves. While running around in search of answers, Zelda soon finds herself falling for the flirtatious Prince Charming.

But could love with off-limits-Leo be worth risking her role in the fairytale and losing the happily ever after she’s always dreamed of?

✨ Star Light Star Bright has a tentative release date of November 11, 2025 (Get it? 11:11)
✨ It will be released in hardback, paperback, and ebook

✨About the Book✨
Beauty. Nobility. Grace. Olisand’s newest, starry-eyed godmother has it all and is eager to prove to her new mentor she has what it takes to be the best godmother the “home of happily ever afters” has ever seen.

When she learns her best friend has a crush on the crown prince, she hatches a brilliant plan to bring the pair together. The only problem: her best friend is a troll and the prince is an insufferable grump who wants nothing to do with magic and romance. It would be a fairytale ending for the ages, if only love was only as simple as a wave of a wand.

An Emma x Swan Lake Retelling

Review: Once Upon A Rose: (The Galamere Chronicles #2) by Gabrielle Landi

About the Book
A cursed lord, a feisty librarian, and their disguised pet dragon.

Being the first librarian in their small town is everything Beatrice Montgomery has ever dreamed of–except no one in town knows what to make of her, or the library. But spending her days surrounded by books is an occupation beyond her wildest dreams, and she'll do whatever it takes to make the library a success.

Lord Alexander Dunham's time is running out. Providing for his estate and the people dependent on him before his curse ruins his life is his first priority--and that means he needs a wife, immediately. Proposing a marriage of convenience to the feisty librarian seems like the perfect plan: he gets a wife, she gets funds for her library, and the sorcerer trying to steal his estate gets nothing.

Even with his lips sealed about the curse, a transforming dragon watching his every move, and a wife who's winning over everyone on their estate, their marriage of convenience should have solved all of Alexander's problems. Unfortunately, he's falling for his wife, and it's causing a new problem: he's no longer willing to die. Can Alexander and Beatrice outwit the most powerful sorcerer in the Northlands, or will Beatrice lose the man she's growing to love?

Once Upon A Rose is a Beauty and the Beast fairytale retelling and the second book in the Galamere Chronicles. Each standalone book is a retelling of a beloved story or fairy tale, with the swoon-worthy sweet romance of a Hallmark movie, the wholesome and heartwarming feeling of cozy fantasy, and the comfort of a found family of friends, with a sprinkling of danger and a dash of magic.

Tropes:
❤️ Marriage of Convenience
❤️ Beauty and the Beast Retelling
❤️ Forced Proximity
❤️ Grumpy/Sunshine

Amazon / Goodreads / Author Website

MY THOUGHTS

This was such a cute Beauty and the Beast retelling! I loved all the nods to the original story but appreciated the differences too. The first line grabbed my attention, and I was hooked from there on out.

This book was full of wonderful characters. Alexander and Beatrice were so easy to like and root for. They were such a great pair and were so good together. I liked that the story was told from both Alexander’s and Beatrice’s POVs. I also really liked Guinevere, Dietrich, and especially Rose. She was such an awesome “kitty.”

The curse added a bit of danger and urgency to the story, which had me flipping through the pages as fast as I could to see how it would all turn out.

I did think that some of the wording sounded awkward at times. Just some unnecessary repeating of words and phrases, which kind of pulled me out of the story at times. But other than that, I really enjoyed this sweet read and look forward to the next book in the series!

I received a copy of this book and voluntarily reviewed it. All thoughts and comments are my honest opinion.

FOUR STARS

Cover Reveal: All the Wild Hearts by J.M. Hackman

I'm so excited to be part of the cover reveal for All the Wild Hearts the first book in the Stardust Hearts series by J.M. Hackman! It's releasing April 29 and is a futuristic sci-fi fantasy retelling of Little Red Riding Hood! 

About the Book

Who’s afraid of the big bad businessman? Everyone.

On the snowy planet of Amaris, Avarill Engle makes deliveries for her grandmother and the residents of Skift, while avoiding unwanted advances from the gray tycoon Wolfgang Vujic. When the crooked CEO buys the mortgage to her grandmother’s neo-res, the only way to keep their home is to go to work—for him.

With every passing day, Avarill feels more desperate and afraid. Blaiz Weylin, her new friend and expert codestitcher, creates a plan to destroy Vujic, and Avarill eagerly joins the sting operation. But Blaiz’s past entwines with Vujic in ways he can’t confess, even as his feelings for Avarill deepen. When his secret comes to light, Avarill must make a choice: trust in the man who could break her heart or fight to free herself from Vujic’s iron grasp. With one wrong move, her freedom will become a distant memory. Time is running out, and the wolf is closing in.

There are no preorder links at this time but be on the lookout for this book at the end of April! 

Review: Thorns of Winter by Moriah Chavis

About the Book
William Rhodes has always known harsh winters. Every year, the beast holds someone captive in the forest castle, and the village chooses a warrior to save her. The girl survives, but the warrior always dies. This year, Will volunteered to be the warrior. But the night before he's supposed to defeat the beast, his betrothed traps him, refusing to let the curse take the boy she loves. But winter sinks its claws deeper. Another victim is stolen from her bed: Will's sister.

Now, both the girls he loves most are held captive by the curse.

He travels deep into the forest to face the monster. But the beast inside is nothing like he imagined.

Amazon / Goodreads / Author Website

MY THOUGHTS

This was a beautiful story. It might be a quick read, but it leaves a lasting impression. I’ll be thinking about it for a long time.

This story captivated me from the first sentence and took me on a fast-paced and atmospheric journey showcasing the power of sacrificial love.

This author has a very engaging writing style, and I’m eager to read more from her. If you're looking for a quick and impactful retelling, grab a copy of this book. I highly recommend it.

I received a copy of this book and voluntarily reviewed it. All thoughts and comments are my honest opinion.

4.5 STARS

Review: To Defy a Dream by Mary Mecham

About the Book

What if Sleeping Beauty pricked her finger on purpose?

Princess Aurelia’s kingdom is plagued by the Eternal Slumber, a disease progressively ensnaring the minds of her subjects. After Aurelia wishes for the means to revive her brother, her sinister fairy godmother presents an ominous solution: Aurelia must stab herself with a poisoned spindle.

Accepting this fate plunges Aurelia into a nightmare where victims of the Eternal Slumber are being held hostage by a dark djinni. However, Aurelia’s brother isn’t the only familiar face she finds herself reunited with; Everett, the love of her life who mysteriously disappeared years ago, is there as well. As the djinni’s power grows, Aurelia must decide who to save before the djinni escapes and enters the waking world.

Failing on her quest could trap her in the dream world forever. Will she forgo her chance at a happily ever after and protect her brother, or will she choose to rescue herself and the man she loves?

No matter who she chooses, someone will be doomed to remain in the nightmare that never ends.

To Defy a Dream is a retelling of Sleeping Beauty. It is one of twelve novellas in The Shattered Tales, a collection of twelve fractured retellings of your favorite fairy tales. They can be enjoyed in any order, so fall in love with the swoony sweet romances, magical adventures, and tale-shattering twists one happily-ever-after at a time!

Amazon / Goodreads

MY THOUGHTS

I’ve been wanting to read something by this author for awhile, and I’m so happy that I finally did. This was a fun and twisted retelling of Sleeping Beauty. It poses the question of, What if she pricked her finger on purpose? Color me intrigued! What would make her do that? I was glued to the pages! It’s a quick read, but it’s jam-packed full of goodness.

The worldbuilding was excellent. Everything was fleshed out, and the volcanic realm really came to life. Both frightening and fascinating, I was captivated and found myself having a difficult time putting the book down!

While I admired Aurelia’s desire to find a cure for the Eternal Slumber, she was a bit impulsive and headstrong. There were some moments where I had a hard time liking her, but by the end, she really grew on me.

If you’re looking for a unique retelling, grab a copy of this book. I really enjoyed it and am looking forward to reading more from this author.

FOUR STARS

Review: What Comes of Attending the Commoners Ball by Elisabeth Aimee Brown

About the Book

Hester Flanders went to the ball for the food. She didn’t expect a prince to follow her home.

If there’s one rule Hester learned during her country upbringing, it’s never accept a gift: that’s how the Folk get you. Although she’s left her farm behind, she can’t leave her superstitions, even if no one else in the capital city seems to care. Hardworking but hungry, she’s looking for loopholes, and the king’s annual Commoners Ball seems like the perfect way to get a free meal that’s not technically a gift—and it would have been, too, except a pesky prince took a shine to her.

Inglebert Lucas Chesingwick isn’t just the crown prince: he’s also practical, responsible, and very annoyed to see his younger brother causing a scene by flirting with a peasant at the ball. He can separate them for one night, but his mischievous brother is determined to see the poor girl again. And again. And for some reason, Lucas keeps running into her, too. If only there was some way he could help her …

The princes might mean well, but Hester knows better than to accept favors from anyone, even royalty—even if it’s cheese—and even if saying no breaks her heart. After all, just because the Folk have never been seen in the city doesn’t mean they’re not around …

Cinderella meets Howl’s Moving Castle in this cozy fantasy romance from debut author Elisabeth Aimee Brown. Pick up your copy and whirl away into a whimsical story of glittering gaslamps, frisky Folk, and huggable hogs.

Amazon / Goodreads

MY THOUGHTS

This story was hilarious, sweet, and full of wonder. I loved every second of it. Well, except for the fact that it ended. I didn’t want to leave these characters or this world.

I liked Hester a lot. She was brave, sassy, and bold. I loved her attitude and how she handled herself in some rather out of the ordinary situations. I wish I was more like her! I have to say, though, that we do share the same affinity for cheese. The whole idea that she goes to a ball not for the Prince but for the food was such a clever twist! Things certainly didn’t go the way Hester imagined they would, but it was quite a fun ride, that’s for sure!

I loved all the characters. Well, maybe not so much Hugh. But Lucas, on the other hand, was a good and honorable guy who I instantly liked. And Chemmy was such a great friend to Hester. So loyal and caring.

I thought the lore behind the Folk was really interesting.

There was a twist that I didn’t see coming that completely surprised me. It made me want to go back to the beginning and read the story all over again to see if I could catch the clues. So good!

What a wonderfully delightful tale! It was an absolute joy to read! I loved it so much and am very eager to read more from this author. Needless to say, I highly, highly recommend it.

I received a copy of this book and voluntarily reviewed it. All thoughts and comments are my honest opinion.

FIVE STARS

Book Beginnings, First Line Friday, & Friday 56: To Defy a Dream by Mary Mecham

Book Beginnings is a weekly meme hosted by Rose City Reader that asks you to share the first sentence (or so) of the book you're reading. I'm also linking up with Carrie at Reading is My Superpower for First Line Friday. Friday 56 asks you to grab a book (any book), turn to page 56 or 56% in your ereader and share a non-spoilery sentence or two. It was started by Freda at Freda's Voice, but Anne over at My Head is Full of Books has taken over for the time being.

This week I'm featuring To Defy a Dream by Mary Mecham. I've been wanting to read something by this author for awhile and I'm glad that I finally did. This was a fun and unique twist to Sleeping Beauty. 

About the Book

What if Sleeping Beauty pricked her finger on purpose?

Princess Aurelia’s kingdom is plagued by the Eternal Slumber, a disease progressively ensnaring the minds of her subjects. After Aurelia wishes for the means to revive her brother, her sinister fairy godmother presents an ominous solution: Aurelia must stab herself with a poisoned spindle.

Accepting this fate plunges Aurelia into a nightmare where victims of the Eternal Slumber are being held hostage by a dark djinni. However, Aurelia’s brother isn’t the only familiar face she finds herself reunited with; Everett, the love of her life who mysteriously disappeared years ago, is there as well. As the djinni’s power grows, Aurelia must decide who to save before the djinni escapes and enters the waking world.

Failing on her quest could trap her in the dream world forever. Will she forgo her chance at a happily ever after and protect her brother, or will she choose to rescue herself and the man she loves?

No matter who she chooses, someone will be doomed to remain in the nightmare that never ends.

To Defy a Dream is a retelling of Sleeping Beauty. It is one of twelve novellas in The Shattered Tales, a collection of twelve fractured retellings of your favorite fairy tales. They can be enjoyed in any order, so fall in love with the swoony sweet romances, magical adventures, and tale-shattering twists one happily-ever-after at a time!

Book Beginnings / First Line Friday

Danger. That was the clear message that the bewitched spindle's cold, unforgiving metal gave me as it rolled between my fingers, the sharpened silver tip drawing my eyes repeatedly.

Friday 56

Everett had never looked so panicked, not in all of my recollections.

What have you been reading lately?

Review: Once Upon An Apple by Gabrielle Landi

About the Book
A lord’s son, a milkmaid, and seven mischievous goats.

After running from her past, Sophia built a new life for herself in the Northlands, taking a job as a milkmaid for the local nobility and creating her own family with the friends she meets at the Cozy Cat Café. She spends her days spoiling the goats and finally feels safe, but something is still missing. She wants more than just safety–she wants love and a real family of her own.

Lord Caspian Rendon has returned home to–in his Father’s words, get serious–and contemplate his life’s path. As a third son, he doesn’t have much other than his title–and while the past two years of training in the Royal Guard have set him up for a potential career, they haven’t done much in the way of finding him a wealthy wife, which had always seemed the more appealing option of the two.

When he runs into the beautiful, sweet, and always kind Sophia taking care of his little sister’s goats, he begins to realize there’s more to life than marrying into wealth. As the baby goats, a mischievous little sister, and Fall Festival planning keep bringing Caspian and Sophia together, he starts to fall for the goat girl. But when Sophia's mysterious past finally catches up with her, Caspian must make a hard choice ... Can he risk it all for love, or will he never see her again?

Once Upon An Apple is a Snow White fairytale retelling and the first book in the Galamere Chronicles. Each standalone book is a retelling of a beloved story or fairy tale, with the swoon-worthy sweet romance of a Hallmark movie, the wholesome and heartwarming feeling of cozy fantasy, and the comfort of a found family of friends, with a sprinkling of danger and a dash of magic.

Amazon / Goodreads / Author's Website

MY THOUGHTS

This was such a cute cozy fantasy and sweet retelling of Snow White. I loved all the nods to the original story. It’s a little slower-paced in the beginning, but things really started to pick up during the second half.

I liked Sophia. She had such a kind soul. I enjoyed seeing the special bond between her and the seven mischievous goats. They were adorable and reminded me of one of my own goats, Millie. She’s such a troublemaker, but you can’t help but love her.

Caspian was an upstanding and honorable guy who I enjoyed getting to know. His aversion to getting dirty was funny yet relatable. There was an instant spark between him and Sophia that had me rooting for them.

This story was a breath of fresh air that left a big smile on my face. I recommend it to fans of sweet and swoony fairytale retellings. I’m looking forward to the next book in the series.

I received a copy of this book and voluntarily reviewed it. All thoughts and comments are my honest opinion.

FOUR STARS

Review: The Stars Wait Not (The Star Realm Saga Book 1) by Anne Wheeler

About the Book

Ryllis Camden has a secret—she can talk to nature, and it speaks to her in return. But her gift is forbidden by the Vilarian Star Realm who controls her planet, and the penalty is death. When she’s falsely accused of treason and exiled to the Vilarian home world, hiding her power becomes even more critical. But how can she hide anything when she’s forced to toil in the home of the emperor’s youngest son?

Kresten Westermark might be a prince, but long ago he shunned a life of luxury to work as a telepath in the Vilarian Imperial Fleet. His job demands he treat his new prisoner as a slave and test his deteriorating telepathic powers on her, but the only thing on his mind is the growing attraction he feels toward the earnest young woman tending his gardens.

As the mountain winter fades, a reluctant respect between the two becomes trust, and trust soon blossoms into affection. But when the Fleet arrives to arrest Kresten for treason, Ryllis must make an impossible decision.

Save Kresten’s life—or hers.

Amazon / Goodreads

MY THOUGHTS

A fairytale in space? Yes, please! I was held captive by this book from the very first page to the last. I didn't want it to end.

 

The worldbuilding was great. There was a very unique and fascinating feel to it. It was very much science fiction, but there was a sprinkling of traditional fairytale fantasy to it as well, which I really loved. It was such a great combo. And I loved that there was artwork included throughout the book. It made the story come alive even more.

 

This is the second book I've read by this author, and it made me an even bigger fan. I'm eager to get caught up on her entire backlist. Highly recommended!

FOUR STARS

Can't Wait Wednesday: The Looking-Glass Illusion (The Curious Realities #2) by Sara Ella

Can't Wait Wednesday is a weekly meme hosted by Wishful Endings that spotlights and discusses the books we're excited about that we've yet to read. Generally, they're books that are yet to be released. It's based on Waiting on Wednesday, hosted by Jill at Breaking the Spine.

This week I'm featuring The Looking-Glass Illusion (The Curious Realities #2) by Sara Ella releasing September 19. I'm hoping to read the first book soon. This series sounds awesome! 

About the Book

Step through the looking glass. Slay the Jabberwock. Seek the King.

Alice is not prepared to face what awaits beyond the Tulgey Wood. When she and the rest of Team Heart enter the fourth and final Wonderland Trial, it’s up to her to lead them to victory. But this Trial is more than a game. If Alice and the others fail to defeat the Jabberwock and reveal the truth about Wonderland, more than points and fame will be lost.

Chess Shire never believed he’d make it this far. Now he’s stuck navigating a Trial he’s seen but doesn’t remember, all while searching for the brother he left behind. Not everything is as black and white as the game that shares his name. And if Alice discovers his deepest regret? Chess might just lose her too.

Apart, Chess and Alice scour the eight squares of the Heart Trial in search of memories, truth, and an Ivory King who seems more illusion than reality. Will they learn to lead together to face their greatest fears? Or will they remain pawns in a queen’s game, never truly seeing the Wonderland they’ve come to believe in?

What upcoming release are you eagerly awaiting?