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The Unexpected Queen
The woman with the heart of gold
Nineteen-year-old Sera lives a simple life on Isle Piscantur. She serves the Dahvaene estate, running the day-to-day affairs of the household, overseeing the orchard harvest, and handling the produce stall at the market. Sera answers to the mistress, Rae'lin, who spends her days caring for her bedridden husband and ill son.
The stranger with the perfect smile
When Dankin arrives on the island, shipwrecked and looking for work, Sera takes a chance on the mysterious stranger. Despite the warnings in her head, she grows fond of Dankin, and she learns there is much more beneath the surface...
Nineteen-year-old Sera lives a simple life on Isle Piscantur. She serves the Dahvaene estate, running the day-to-day affairs of the household, overseeing the orchard harvest, and handling the produce stall at the market. Sera answers to the mistress, Rae'lin, who spends her days caring for her bedridden husband and ill son.
The stranger with the perfect smile
When Dankin arrives on the island, shipwrecked and looking for work, Sera takes a chance on the mysterious stranger. Despite the warnings in her head, she grows fond of Dankin, and she learns there is much more beneath the surface...
- GenresMermaids
444 pages, Hardcover
First published October 6, 2022
About the author
A.R. Kaufer
15 books158 followersA.R. Kaufer has dreamed of becoming a published author for as long as she can remember. She is a DV and SA survivor, and champions for mental health services for those in need. She lives in Indiana with her wonderful husband and furbabies. When she's not reading or writing, she enjoys playing video games, watching movies, and going for walks in the woods around her home.
She is currently working on an eight book fantasy series, The Courtship Saga, with all 8 books available now.
She also has a Beauty and the Beast retelling, Kingdom of Forgotten Curses. And she released her first novella, The Sword in the Roses, which released at #8 on Amazon's best-seller list!
Court of Lies & Cinder, a dark Cinderella retelling with wolf shifters, is available now!
Her latest release is a Rapunzel retelling. Tower of the Lost Princess, available now!
Coming this fall, she has a Sleeping Beauty retelling, Castle of Broken Dreams!
She is also working on a standalone dark romantasy, slated to come out next spring.
She is currently working on an eight book fantasy series, The Courtship Saga, with all 8 books available now.
She also has a Beauty and the Beast retelling, Kingdom of Forgotten Curses. And she released her first novella, The Sword in the Roses, which released at #8 on Amazon's best-seller list!
Court of Lies & Cinder, a dark Cinderella retelling with wolf shifters, is available now!
Her latest release is a Rapunzel retelling. Tower of the Lost Princess, available now!
Coming this fall, she has a Sleeping Beauty retelling, Castle of Broken Dreams!
She is also working on a standalone dark romantasy, slated to come out next spring.
Ratings & Reviews
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Displaying 1 - 29 of 29 reviews
January 7, 2023
This was a really great fantasy book that I highly enjoyed!
November 8, 2022
READERS BEWARE LEAVING POOR REVIEWS FOR THIS BOOK. The author didn't like the below review and so commented how displeased she was with me. Then she went a step further and contacted me on twitter about it.
I downloaded the free sample pages from Amazon like I've been doing to all the books I maybe want to read, but stopped reading even before I'd finished all the sample pages. Here's why:
CHARACTERS
Sera and Dankin were flat. They had no personality. For Sera, I only saw everything external about her and nothing internal. It's the internal that drives the story. Sera also came off as unrealistic, in that she was physically abused by various characters but didn't seem to react to or have an opinion on it. Also, one of the abuses happened twice in a public place, but no one noticed it happening.
Fury'am'a's personality feels like a joke. He comes off as cringy, immature, awkward, and unrealistic, written in a way that forces the reader to hate him, and only because the author wants you to hate him.
WORLDBUILDING
Setting was never established. There were coconuts and an ocean, but that's it. There was mention of a character who lost his family in the war, but there were no other details about the war. An ongoing war? An old war? The book is tagged as fantasy, but there was no fantasy element at all in the beginning. Good writing demands setting and genre be established in the very first pages.
OTHER
- POVs between Sera and Dankin were mixed in the same chapter. Omniscient POV is not popular in current fiction.
- dialogue was clunky, in that it didn't flow and lacked transition from speaker to speaker.
- tension was low from page to page, and low tension makes for a boring story.
I, personally, did not enjoy the pages I did read. For me, the world, tension, and characters have to carry me through the book for me to read even the next page, and the next. I do hope, however, the book appeals to others.
I downloaded the free sample pages from Amazon like I've been doing to all the books I maybe want to read, but stopped reading even before I'd finished all the sample pages. Here's why:
CHARACTERS
Sera and Dankin were flat. They had no personality. For Sera, I only saw everything external about her and nothing internal. It's the internal that drives the story. Sera also came off as unrealistic, in that she was physically abused by various characters but didn't seem to react to or have an opinion on it. Also, one of the abuses happened twice in a public place, but no one noticed it happening.
Fury'am'a's personality feels like a joke. He comes off as cringy, immature, awkward, and unrealistic, written in a way that forces the reader to hate him, and only because the author wants you to hate him.
WORLDBUILDING
Setting was never established. There were coconuts and an ocean, but that's it. There was mention of a character who lost his family in the war, but there were no other details about the war. An ongoing war? An old war? The book is tagged as fantasy, but there was no fantasy element at all in the beginning. Good writing demands setting and genre be established in the very first pages.
OTHER
- POVs between Sera and Dankin were mixed in the same chapter. Omniscient POV is not popular in current fiction.
- dialogue was clunky, in that it didn't flow and lacked transition from speaker to speaker.
- tension was low from page to page, and low tension makes for a boring story.
I, personally, did not enjoy the pages I did read. For me, the world, tension, and characters have to carry me through the book for me to read even the next page, and the next. I do hope, however, the book appeals to others.
April 2, 2023
I purchased Unexpected Queen during its free promotion, and I am so happy I decided to read it!!
I have so much to say about Sera and Dankin; my gosh!! From the beginning of the book, I was super invested in their relationship. I loved their chemistry and read almost 60% of the book in one sitting.
I went through so many emotions as well. These characters both had moments where I was disappointed in their choices or angry about their actions. But there was no denying their love for each other, which ultimately made this book one of my top reads for 2022.
I generally don’t read much fantasy, but I am glad I decided to read this book. I loved the writing style and enjoyed every surprise along the journey. Both Sera and Dankin are not perfect, but their growth was noticeable throughout the book, which made me fall in love with their story.
If you are looking for an emotions and action-packed fantasy read, definitely check out the Unexpected Queen!
I have so much to say about Sera and Dankin; my gosh!! From the beginning of the book, I was super invested in their relationship. I loved their chemistry and read almost 60% of the book in one sitting.
I went through so many emotions as well. These characters both had moments where I was disappointed in their choices or angry about their actions. But there was no denying their love for each other, which ultimately made this book one of my top reads for 2022.
I generally don’t read much fantasy, but I am glad I decided to read this book. I loved the writing style and enjoyed every surprise along the journey. Both Sera and Dankin are not perfect, but their growth was noticeable throughout the book, which made me fall in love with their story.
If you are looking for an emotions and action-packed fantasy read, definitely check out the Unexpected Queen!
December 31, 2022
Good start to an indie author's journey as an author!
This book was pitched to me as a fantasy romance. And come to find out this book has a lot more action than was advertised. I enjoyed that.
The story has a slow burn to it at the start but quickly picks up and is worth delving deeper into. There are several good and well planned twists that keep it going.
This is a novel that sets the bar for the author and we will watch for her growth as a storyteller and wordsmith, which is exciting!
This book was pitched to me as a fantasy romance. And come to find out this book has a lot more action than was advertised. I enjoyed that.
The story has a slow burn to it at the start but quickly picks up and is worth delving deeper into. There are several good and well planned twists that keep it going.
This is a novel that sets the bar for the author and we will watch for her growth as a storyteller and wordsmith, which is exciting!
January 2, 2023
This book was so hard to put down. It’s a fun rollercoaster full of twists and turns, but not too many to make it cheesy. I totally recommend!
February 28, 2023
I cannot believe this is a debut novel. The writing style is unique, the story kept me engrossed until the very last page, and I felt so much for the characters, and everything they went through. (Originally reviewed in November, 2022)
December 20, 2022
I thoroughly enjoyed the premise of this book, especially the fantasy creatures portrayed. I don’t see them portrayed often, and they make for a fresh twist in a fantasy story.
I was very excited to read this book, but found myself disappointed in the execution. The beginning chapters are monotonous and boring, with the character interaction feeling wooden and disjointed. The overall plot feels incoherent, with plot lines introduced and either being explained away or resolving too quickly. A driving force in the beginning of the story is resolved halfway through the book, and the second half feels drifting and pointless.
The relationship between the two main characters is volatile and, in my opinion, toxic and sometimes abusive. They swing wildly between extremes over and over, often within very small timeframes. The repetition of this exchange is exhausting to read and doesn’t seem to serve the plot in any way. The brushing aside of abuse in this and other relationships I don’t find to be realistic.
I also struggled with the inconsistent portrayal of technology. The estate has showers, electric lights, alarm clocks, but no cars or telephones? It seems like the author wanted an old-world aesthetic but with enough modern conveniences to not inconvenience the characters too much.
Overall, I had higher expectations of this book, and was disappointed in the final product. I would be interested in reading future works by this author to see if future stories improve.
I was very excited to read this book, but found myself disappointed in the execution. The beginning chapters are monotonous and boring, with the character interaction feeling wooden and disjointed. The overall plot feels incoherent, with plot lines introduced and either being explained away or resolving too quickly. A driving force in the beginning of the story is resolved halfway through the book, and the second half feels drifting and pointless.
The relationship between the two main characters is volatile and, in my opinion, toxic and sometimes abusive. They swing wildly between extremes over and over, often within very small timeframes. The repetition of this exchange is exhausting to read and doesn’t seem to serve the plot in any way. The brushing aside of abuse in this and other relationships I don’t find to be realistic.
I also struggled with the inconsistent portrayal of technology. The estate has showers, electric lights, alarm clocks, but no cars or telephones? It seems like the author wanted an old-world aesthetic but with enough modern conveniences to not inconvenience the characters too much.
Overall, I had higher expectations of this book, and was disappointed in the final product. I would be interested in reading future works by this author to see if future stories improve.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 12, 2023
I enjoyed reading The Unexpected Queen
For some, the start can be slow. However it gave enough time for us to know the characters and their reasons for their actions/decisions.
Sera and Dankin go through ups and downs with their relationship and at times i found myself really not liking him. However the reasons for his actions became clear and understandable
I dont think i would have forgiven him as easily as sera did, haha.
This is a cozy YA romance that is suitable for all ages.
Overall i enjoyed the book.
My only constructive criticism is that i would have flowed better in some places, it could have ended and began a new chapter with the next paragraph.
Alex Puffle Reviews approved!
For some, the start can be slow. However it gave enough time for us to know the characters and their reasons for their actions/decisions.
Sera and Dankin go through ups and downs with their relationship and at times i found myself really not liking him. However the reasons for his actions became clear and understandable
I dont think i would have forgiven him as easily as sera did, haha.
This is a cozy YA romance that is suitable for all ages.
Overall i enjoyed the book.
My only constructive criticism is that i would have flowed better in some places, it could have ended and began a new chapter with the next paragraph.
Alex Puffle Reviews approved!
July 24, 2023
I loved this book! It was a great mix of everything, all emotions were felt, and so much happened!
Read
April 30, 2024First of all, I picked up this book during its free promo. My thanks to the author.
Unfortunately, I'm not sure what to rate this book. I am impressed with the author's dedication to it, and her effort. However, it's lacking in many areas. There were only a few typos, but that surprises me since the author thanks her editor in the acknowledgements. There were also a few paragraphs that made no sense whatsoever.
The story itself is far too long. The first half is day in, and day out of breakfast, market, lunch, dinner, tea in the middle of the night - over, and over, and over again. It was unnecessary repetition, and showed a definite lack of imagination on the author's part.
I truly am not sure who the intended audience is. There is an insane amount of verbal, and physical abuse (especially from Sera's mother), and yet, the love scenes are fade-to-black. Dankin is an unusual partner. He protects her from Sera's mother, and then verbally abuses Sera in the second half of the book. There is so much apologizing going on, it became tiresome. Their relationship was abusive, despite how many times they said, "I love you".
Despite the fighting, and the "I love you", the characters were flat, and the unusual twist was made ridiculous thanks to Sera's reaction to it. She was transformed from human to mermaid, and while she did become upset, it was cartoon-like. Again, if this book is intended for children, it might work. But if it IS intended for children, there's far too much violence in it.
I was put off by the modern amenities in what I believe was the year 1300. It felt like an easy way out for the author to not have to research what life was really like in the 1300s.
Life underwater was exhausting, as well. There was a lot of talking, not enough description, unless you count the endless fish they ate, just as there was endless rice and beef on land.
I did not enjoy the writing style. It was very simplistic, and sometimes ridiculous. "I see", Sera said. Since they were under the sea, Dankin asks, "Is that a pun?"
I did not like the names with apostrophes. As a reader, it was hard to keep track. Eventually, you know who is talking, but I want to be able to pronounce, and remember the characters names without difficulty.
But again, my biggest complaint is the length of the book. I enjoy long novels, but there was too much repetition of the same scenes in this one. There was far too much "Leave me alone". "I'm sorry". "No you're not." "Yes, I am." "I love you." "I love you too." The End.
If I had to give it a star rating, I would give it a two.
If I can offer a suggestion, it would be to edit this story accordingly, and turn this book into a children's picture book.
Unfortunately, I'm not sure what to rate this book. I am impressed with the author's dedication to it, and her effort. However, it's lacking in many areas. There were only a few typos, but that surprises me since the author thanks her editor in the acknowledgements. There were also a few paragraphs that made no sense whatsoever.
The story itself is far too long. The first half is day in, and day out of breakfast, market, lunch, dinner, tea in the middle of the night - over, and over, and over again. It was unnecessary repetition, and showed a definite lack of imagination on the author's part.
I truly am not sure who the intended audience is. There is an insane amount of verbal, and physical abuse (especially from Sera's mother), and yet, the love scenes are fade-to-black. Dankin is an unusual partner. He protects her from Sera's mother, and then verbally abuses Sera in the second half of the book. There is so much apologizing going on, it became tiresome. Their relationship was abusive, despite how many times they said, "I love you".
Despite the fighting, and the "I love you", the characters were flat, and the unusual twist was made ridiculous thanks to Sera's reaction to it. She was transformed from human to mermaid, and while she did become upset, it was cartoon-like. Again, if this book is intended for children, it might work. But if it IS intended for children, there's far too much violence in it.
I was put off by the modern amenities in what I believe was the year 1300. It felt like an easy way out for the author to not have to research what life was really like in the 1300s.
Life underwater was exhausting, as well. There was a lot of talking, not enough description, unless you count the endless fish they ate, just as there was endless rice and beef on land.
I did not enjoy the writing style. It was very simplistic, and sometimes ridiculous. "I see", Sera said. Since they were under the sea, Dankin asks, "Is that a pun?"
I did not like the names with apostrophes. As a reader, it was hard to keep track. Eventually, you know who is talking, but I want to be able to pronounce, and remember the characters names without difficulty.
But again, my biggest complaint is the length of the book. I enjoy long novels, but there was too much repetition of the same scenes in this one. There was far too much "Leave me alone". "I'm sorry". "No you're not." "Yes, I am." "I love you." "I love you too." The End.
If I had to give it a star rating, I would give it a two.
If I can offer a suggestion, it would be to edit this story accordingly, and turn this book into a children's picture book.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 11, 2024
The Unexpected Queen is a YA Fantasy Romance novel penned by A.R. Kaufer. When I started reading the mesmerising debut, I couldn’t put it down, and I instantly became a devoted fan of A. R. Kaufer.
On the Exotic Isle of Piscantur, Sera, the tireless overseer of Dahvaene Estate and its bountiful harvest, toils relentlessly. Her ‘mistress,’ Rae’lin, almost secluded in a room with her husband and son, remains blissfully unaware of Sera’s sacrifices. Instead of appreciation, Sera faces a lifetime of servitude, her childhood innocence replaced by the harsh reality of slavery. Days blend into nights, with hard work and fear as her constant companions, and haunting nightmares as her unwelcome guests.
But fate takes an unexpected turn when a mysterious and dangerously attractive stranger named Dankin appears out of nowhere. Secrets, sacrifices, and stolen glances weave an intricate tapestry, promising to dismantle the symphony of brutality that has ruled Sera’s existence. Safety and happiness, once distant dreams, now beckon tantalizingly close. Yet this newfound hope is merely the prelude to an epic odyssey—one where everyone treads uncharted territory. As love smolders against a backdrop of deception, the lines between hero and villain blur, leaving readers breathless. Brace yourselves for a finale that defies expectations, etching an indelible mark—a tale not merely read, but lived.
The author’s vivid brushstrokes create a three-dimensional painting, seamlessly weaving together multiple traditional fairytales with unexpected plot twists. The world-building, infused with magic, transports readers to enchanting realms. While the writing isn’t flawless, it remains riveting and memorable. Notably, the love story between Sera and Dankin unfolds in an emotional roller-coaster, compelling readers to turn pages nonstop.
'The Unexpected Queen' is an intense novel that skillfully blends delicate storytelling with a raw exploration of serious social issues. A. R. Kaufer’s talent shines through, leaving readers with a satisfying aftertaste of justice and redemption. I wholeheartedly recommend this unputdownable book to both young and adult fantasy romance enthusiasts.
On the Exotic Isle of Piscantur, Sera, the tireless overseer of Dahvaene Estate and its bountiful harvest, toils relentlessly. Her ‘mistress,’ Rae’lin, almost secluded in a room with her husband and son, remains blissfully unaware of Sera’s sacrifices. Instead of appreciation, Sera faces a lifetime of servitude, her childhood innocence replaced by the harsh reality of slavery. Days blend into nights, with hard work and fear as her constant companions, and haunting nightmares as her unwelcome guests.
But fate takes an unexpected turn when a mysterious and dangerously attractive stranger named Dankin appears out of nowhere. Secrets, sacrifices, and stolen glances weave an intricate tapestry, promising to dismantle the symphony of brutality that has ruled Sera’s existence. Safety and happiness, once distant dreams, now beckon tantalizingly close. Yet this newfound hope is merely the prelude to an epic odyssey—one where everyone treads uncharted territory. As love smolders against a backdrop of deception, the lines between hero and villain blur, leaving readers breathless. Brace yourselves for a finale that defies expectations, etching an indelible mark—a tale not merely read, but lived.
The author’s vivid brushstrokes create a three-dimensional painting, seamlessly weaving together multiple traditional fairytales with unexpected plot twists. The world-building, infused with magic, transports readers to enchanting realms. While the writing isn’t flawless, it remains riveting and memorable. Notably, the love story between Sera and Dankin unfolds in an emotional roller-coaster, compelling readers to turn pages nonstop.
'The Unexpected Queen' is an intense novel that skillfully blends delicate storytelling with a raw exploration of serious social issues. A. R. Kaufer’s talent shines through, leaving readers with a satisfying aftertaste of justice and redemption. I wholeheartedly recommend this unputdownable book to both young and adult fantasy romance enthusiasts.
May 6, 2024
I like books that have the elusive quality of lulling you into the story. You can’t explain it with logic. The inexplicable pull is just there, and you fall under its spell. “The Unexpected Queen” by A.R. Kaufer had this quality for me. Once I started reading it, it felt as if gently rocking waves carried me away into the ocean and held me, swaying me gently.
I was mesmerised by Sera’s daily routine, and soon, I felt like I fell into her life’s pace, working at the stall at the market selling the unique fruit she had created and caring for the people who seemingly didn’t deserve her dedication.
When Sera sees Dankin for the first time, she has no idea that her established – even if unhappy – life is about to change forever. Moreover, in a way, she couldn’t have imagined in her wildest dreams – or nightmares.
I appreciated that the characters didn’t always act in ways that would make readers like them or sympathise with them. I also liked that nineteen-year-old Sera didn’t behave like a mature woman. Her feelings and decisions were the ones of a young girl, fresh and naïve even though her life had taught her a few tough lessons. She made rushed decisions but was also capable of forgiveness. She fought against the choices that were forced on her but adapted to the consequences when she saw the good side of what happened to her.
The relationship between Sera and Dankin is a knot of controversies and sharp edges. And that is what makes it special.
The fantasy setting and elements were especially exciting since I have never read anything like this before. Well, except the picture book I loved as a child made for little fans of a legendary Disney animation movie. I won’t say anything about the plot since it would be impossible to evade spoilers. I did enjoy the ‘I didn’t expect that’ effect and don’t want to spoil the surprise for other readers.
I was mesmerised by Sera’s daily routine, and soon, I felt like I fell into her life’s pace, working at the stall at the market selling the unique fruit she had created and caring for the people who seemingly didn’t deserve her dedication.
When Sera sees Dankin for the first time, she has no idea that her established – even if unhappy – life is about to change forever. Moreover, in a way, she couldn’t have imagined in her wildest dreams – or nightmares.
I appreciated that the characters didn’t always act in ways that would make readers like them or sympathise with them. I also liked that nineteen-year-old Sera didn’t behave like a mature woman. Her feelings and decisions were the ones of a young girl, fresh and naïve even though her life had taught her a few tough lessons. She made rushed decisions but was also capable of forgiveness. She fought against the choices that were forced on her but adapted to the consequences when she saw the good side of what happened to her.
The relationship between Sera and Dankin is a knot of controversies and sharp edges. And that is what makes it special.
The fantasy setting and elements were especially exciting since I have never read anything like this before. Well, except the picture book I loved as a child made for little fans of a legendary Disney animation movie. I won’t say anything about the plot since it would be impossible to evade spoilers. I did enjoy the ‘I didn’t expect that’ effect and don’t want to spoil the surprise for other readers.
July 15, 2025
I am making my way through this author's backlist while waiting for her Rapunzel retelling. This is the third book I've read of hers. I did know it was her debut going in, and I kept that in mind while reading...
But oh, my goodness! I enjoyed this story so much! I was drawn immediately to Sera and her plight. She is a well-written, intriguing character. I felt sorry for her, but seeing her learn to stand on her own made what she went through worth it.
What I liked: Man, I did not see the twist coming! I nearly dropped my kindle. I enjoyed reading Dankin, though he ran so hot and cold at times, it nearly gave me whiplash!
What I didn't like: I felt a few parts were a bit repetitive. And while I enjoyed seeing Dankin grow in his character, he was a bit toxic.
Who would I recommend this book to? Fans of The Little Mermaid, readers looking for a unique mermaid story with original characters who really make you think!
But oh, my goodness! I enjoyed this story so much! I was drawn immediately to Sera and her plight. She is a well-written, intriguing character. I felt sorry for her, but seeing her learn to stand on her own made what she went through worth it.
What I liked: Man, I did not see the twist coming! I nearly dropped my kindle. I enjoyed reading Dankin, though he ran so hot and cold at times, it nearly gave me whiplash!
What I didn't like: I felt a few parts were a bit repetitive. And while I enjoyed seeing Dankin grow in his character, he was a bit toxic.
Who would I recommend this book to? Fans of The Little Mermaid, readers looking for a unique mermaid story with original characters who really make you think!
April 25, 2024
***BOOK REVIEW***
Name: The Unexpected Queen
Author: A.R. Kaufer
Rate: 4.5 🌟
Tropes: Mermaids & Sirens, Hidden Royalty, Slowburn, Fade to black romance, Magic, Adventure in the Sea
~If you are looking for a slowburn YA romance then look no further because you do not want to miss out on this one… For being A.R. Kaufer Debut novel sure has not got the attention it needs… So as a fellow and loyal reader to the author I’m here to help!!!
~The Unexpected Queen is a Romantasy with a beautiful story ready to be read. There are mermaids and sirens, magic and let’s just say an unexpected royalty!!! There is also a bit of physical abuse (nothing major) but please be aware. Other than that, the characters are great, the story, the writing… the book itself was just wonderful. So please go support this amazing indie author and check out her books!!!
Name: The Unexpected Queen
Author: A.R. Kaufer
Rate: 4.5 🌟
Tropes: Mermaids & Sirens, Hidden Royalty, Slowburn, Fade to black romance, Magic, Adventure in the Sea
~If you are looking for a slowburn YA romance then look no further because you do not want to miss out on this one… For being A.R. Kaufer Debut novel sure has not got the attention it needs… So as a fellow and loyal reader to the author I’m here to help!!!
~The Unexpected Queen is a Romantasy with a beautiful story ready to be read. There are mermaids and sirens, magic and let’s just say an unexpected royalty!!! There is also a bit of physical abuse (nothing major) but please be aware. Other than that, the characters are great, the story, the writing… the book itself was just wonderful. So please go support this amazing indie author and check out her books!!!
May 16, 2026
Sera- serves the estate, takes a chance on a shipwrecked man who has nothing but knows how to do repairs. No clue who he is but she’s got enough problems on her hands.
Dankin- shipwrecked, lost, kind. Secretive. Who is he? Definitely NOT the abusive suitor she’s been fending off for years. He’s got his own secrets and knows he wants Sera.
This tale goes from the seemingly innocent and normal story of girl meets boy, and becomes completely unhinged and different from anything read before that could be seen as Little Mermaid retold.
I’m in awe that this was a debut novel. (Yes I’m aware 2022-2026 its been out, I read a LOT of this authors newer books)
What I am saying is- this is amazing as a debut. If you’re not careful you will find yourself drowning in the emotions!
Dankin- shipwrecked, lost, kind. Secretive. Who is he? Definitely NOT the abusive suitor she’s been fending off for years. He’s got his own secrets and knows he wants Sera.
This tale goes from the seemingly innocent and normal story of girl meets boy, and becomes completely unhinged and different from anything read before that could be seen as Little Mermaid retold.
I’m in awe that this was a debut novel. (Yes I’m aware 2022-2026 its been out, I read a LOT of this authors newer books)
What I am saying is- this is amazing as a debut. If you’re not careful you will find yourself drowning in the emotions!
June 5, 2024
The Unexpected Queen by A.R. Kaufer tells the story of nineteen-year-old Sera, a dedicated servant on Isle Piscantur. Her life takes a turn when Dankin, a charming stranger, arrives on the island after a shipwreck. Despite initial reservations, Sera's growing affection for Dankin leads her to uncover hidden depths and secrets. Balancing her responsibilities and this new intrigue, Sera navigates unexpected challenges, making this a captivating tale of love, mystery, and self-discovery. With strong character development and a richly detailed setting, this book offers an engaging read for fans of heartfelt and adventurous stories.
February 17, 2025
Though this is the author's first book, it's the last one of hers I finally finished. I love all of her books! This story was beautiful, full of angst and intrigue, and at times i was a little frustrated with Sera and Dankin both! But overall, for the author's debut, this is a perfect example of how your first book should be! I felt so many emotions while reading, could visualize the world and people, and now I am in a reading slump after! Bravo for a fantastic debut!
If you love:
Fairytales
Mermaids
Morally grey men
Amazing character development
Push and pull of slow-burn romance
THIS IS FOR YOU!
If you love:
Fairytales
Mermaids
Morally grey men
Amazing character development
Push and pull of slow-burn romance
THIS IS FOR YOU!
March 23, 2023
I still cannot believe this is a book from a debut author! It reads like so much classic books that I grew up reading, with a powerful story. Yes, it is YA with fantasy creatures and elements, but the story is beautifully told, with characters that have depth and are well-written. I felt for Sera and my stomach turned at times when I was unsure of what the next chapter would hold. Overall, this author not only created a masterpiece with their debut, but they lured me into a story of passion, romance, and so much more!
October 12, 2023
I so love this book it's a fantasy romance with lots of twits and turns and unexpected happenings. The characters came to life for me with her descriptions. Sera and Dankin have to go through some pretty crazy stuff and Sera has some big adjustments in this book. Please check the trigger warnings there is some abusive situations. Over all a loved it the characters, the world, I didn't want it to end.
February 28, 2023
If you enjoy a book with lots of twists & turns & characters you love (or hate) immediately, this is a must read! The author did an amazing job keeping me guessing how life for Sera & Dankin will end. There is much detail in the elements of the story, so stay alert! The only thing that could make it better is a second book! I can not believe this is a debut novel!
May 7, 2023
For a debut novel, the author certainly knows how to weave a story with secrets, ulterior motives, curses, and more! I was blown away with the unexpected twist. This is a clean, fun, romantic YA fantasy with action and adventure. Cannot recommend enough to anyone who is a fan of fantasy and fairy tales!
May 18, 2024
Having read Autumn's work in the past, I had high expectations for this book and thankfully they were well met.
Packed with likeable characters, especially Sera, this book is a comforting fantasy romance that takes a mythos already explored and puts a new spin on it.
A nice little read if you enjoy both fantasy and romance, another triumph from Autumn.
Packed with likeable characters, especially Sera, this book is a comforting fantasy romance that takes a mythos already explored and puts a new spin on it.
A nice little read if you enjoy both fantasy and romance, another triumph from Autumn.
December 26, 2022
just finished "The Unexpected Queen". It was amazing! The descriptions brought everything to life. The dialogs fleshed out the intense relationships between characters. It's definitely a page-turner! An adventure to be sure! Well done. I'm looking forward to Courting Fate.
February 27, 2023
Loved this book! Sera and Dankin are such amazing characters, and the plot twist made me gasp. I enjoyed watching the ups and downs of their relationship, hoping for the HEA. This book is great if you are a fan of fairy tales, romance, and adventure!
March 2, 2023
Was gifted an e-book in exchange for my review. While it is clear this is a debut novel, the prose was very professional and for the twist inside, I was taken aback and enjoyed it very much. Sera and Dankin were shippable from their first meeting, and overall, the story kept me engaged.
May 8, 2023
A Book With Heart
I read and loved, Courting Fate by A.R. Kaufer, so I dove into her debut. It’s a fun ride if perhaps not as polished as her sophomore novel. All in all, a great read by an author I’ll follow closely.
I read and loved, Courting Fate by A.R. Kaufer, so I dove into her debut. It’s a fun ride if perhaps not as polished as her sophomore novel. All in all, a great read by an author I’ll follow closely.
June 17, 2023
A Well Written Story!
I really enjoyed this book by this A.R Kaufer! From the first chapter I was hooked and I could tell that I was going to enjoy this book. From her opening words you get swept into the adventure. With the added romance, this book is a classic.
I really enjoyed this book by this A.R Kaufer! From the first chapter I was hooked and I could tell that I was going to enjoy this book. From her opening words you get swept into the adventure. With the added romance, this book is a classic.
December 24, 2023
This was a beautifully written story, full of fairytale references, with a twist of fantasy! My heart ached for Sera, and I almost didn't fiinish, as I was so scared that she and Dankin wouldn't have the happily every after they deserved! I highly recommend this book.
April 6, 2023
Gorgeous story with relatable characters you will cheer for right from the start. Beautifully written and set in an immersive, interesting world. I loved this book so much!
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