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Crowns of the Fae #0.5
Crown of Twelve
Marek, a wounded fae soldier, has been in love with Princess Adira, his childhood friend, for years. Intent on letting her become the queen she was always meant to be, he finds employment in the Court of Midnight, away from the woman who holds his heart… until she sends for him, begging for his help in relocating her kidnapped sisters.
As Marek works alongside Adira to solve the mystery of the missing princesses, they uncover a dark fae enchantment that's taken hold of the entire castle. And as the truth unravels, so do Marek's bottled-up feelings for Adira. But the closer they get to finding the princesses, the darker their path becomes. Will Marek and Adira uncover the threat that has taken hold of the kingdom? Or will they become lost, just like the princesses?
Crown of Twelve is a Twelve Dancing Princesses retelling with a twist, full of dark fae magic, deadly court schemes, and steamy romance. This novella is a prequel story to the Crowns of the Fae series.
As Marek works alongside Adira to solve the mystery of the missing princesses, they uncover a dark fae enchantment that's taken hold of the entire castle. And as the truth unravels, so do Marek's bottled-up feelings for Adira. But the closer they get to finding the princesses, the darker their path becomes. Will Marek and Adira uncover the threat that has taken hold of the kingdom? Or will they become lost, just like the princesses?
Crown of Twelve is a Twelve Dancing Princesses retelling with a twist, full of dark fae magic, deadly court schemes, and steamy romance. This novella is a prequel story to the Crowns of the Fae series.
168 pages, Paperback
Published July 4, 2024
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 42 reviews
August 27, 2024
For starters, I have never heard the story of the twelve dancing Princesses 🤷♀️ So for me, this is THE story, not a retelling....
It seemed SO short 🤣 lots of room for a full novel!!
In the beginning, I was sad because I had already met Fenn in Crown of Slumber, and I thought 'knowing' him would ruin the prequel, but it did not!!! Although... I dont remember Adira and Mango in the other book... maybe I was too wrapped up in the story. (Sooooo good, read that too)
RL Perez.... your writing style pulls me in and refuses to release me!! Great work!!
It seemed SO short 🤣 lots of room for a full novel!!
In the beginning, I was sad because I had already met Fenn in Crown of Slumber, and I thought 'knowing' him would ruin the prequel, but it did not!!! Although... I dont remember Adira and Mango in the other book... maybe I was too wrapped up in the story. (Sooooo good, read that too)
RL Perez.... your writing style pulls me in and refuses to release me!! Great work!!
September 11, 2024
“The Twelve Dancing Princesses” is my favorite childhood fairytale
The author changes up enough to make it her own, yet keeps the basics so that readers can relate to the “original”. The personalities are definitely waaay more fleshed out in this version – you’ve been forewarned! 😊
At some point in the tale, the author mentioned Dreamers versus Doubters. While negativity DOES adversely affect how and even if people pursue their goals, I think that dreaming and doubting don’t necessarily have to be mutually exclusive. A healthy dose of skepticism helps us to consider possible obstacles and put plans in place to mitigate or even avoid them. Be prepared!
Fave wingman:
Prince Fenn
Gonna make me a cuppa vanilla tea as I await Fenn’s story in ‘Crown of Slumber’ (releasing next week) then ‘Crown of Briars’.
The author changes up enough to make it her own, yet keeps the basics so that readers can relate to the “original”. The personalities are definitely waaay more fleshed out in this version – you’ve been forewarned! 😊
At some point in the tale, the author mentioned Dreamers versus Doubters. While negativity DOES adversely affect how and even if people pursue their goals, I think that dreaming and doubting don’t necessarily have to be mutually exclusive. A healthy dose of skepticism helps us to consider possible obstacles and put plans in place to mitigate or even avoid them. Be prepared!
Fave wingman:
Prince Fenn
Gonna make me a cuppa vanilla tea as I await Fenn’s story in ‘Crown of Slumber’ (releasing next week) then ‘Crown of Briars’.
September 2, 2024
I can already tell I'm going to love this series.
This is my first time reading this author, and let me say she is brilliant. The story got me hooked instantly. I loved the characters' personalities and how the book progressed. The only thing I wished was that it had been longer. I hope we see more of these characters in the next book!
This is my first time reading this author, and let me say she is brilliant. The story got me hooked instantly. I loved the characters' personalities and how the book progressed. The only thing I wished was that it had been longer. I hope we see more of these characters in the next book!
August 25, 2024
Dancing it’s way into my heart.
I’ve never found a Twelve Dancing Princesses retelling before and it’s one of my favorite fairy tales. So, this just makes me happy overall. Of course, the book itself was very, very good!
We solely follow the MMC’s POV, which I haven’t found in a book in a while. It’s usually the FMC or if we do get the MMC’s POV, it’s a Multiple/Dual POV book. It's a fresh view to approaching books.
The world building was light, but interesting nonetheless! We got to see the workings of two different Courts (with an entirely unique take on the court system of the fae!), with a whole lot of potential to be fleshed out.
Plot-wise, it was intriguing. It was also perfectly paced, as it was a reasonably short book with 170 pages. Everything didn’t feel rushed and was dealt with organically, making it a satisfying read. You get revelations (good and bad), interesting magic systems, and of course, dancing :>
Marek is just a precious little bean and I want to protect him forever. He’s very loyal and knows his station, making it hard for him to dream. But he deserves the world. Addie is a strong-willed who definitely doesn’t hold back her tongue. I loved her so much as a character.
Their romance was filled with longing, angst, adoration, and a hint of spice. Absolutely perfect. As with the book, it was paced well. Friends to lovers with a lot of laying themselves bare with their feelings. chef’s kiss.
I’ve never found a Twelve Dancing Princesses retelling before and it’s one of my favorite fairy tales. So, this just makes me happy overall. Of course, the book itself was very, very good!
We solely follow the MMC’s POV, which I haven’t found in a book in a while. It’s usually the FMC or if we do get the MMC’s POV, it’s a Multiple/Dual POV book. It's a fresh view to approaching books.
The world building was light, but interesting nonetheless! We got to see the workings of two different Courts (with an entirely unique take on the court system of the fae!), with a whole lot of potential to be fleshed out.
Plot-wise, it was intriguing. It was also perfectly paced, as it was a reasonably short book with 170 pages. Everything didn’t feel rushed and was dealt with organically, making it a satisfying read. You get revelations (good and bad), interesting magic systems, and of course, dancing :>
Marek is just a precious little bean and I want to protect him forever. He’s very loyal and knows his station, making it hard for him to dream. But he deserves the world. Addie is a strong-willed who definitely doesn’t hold back her tongue. I loved her so much as a character.
Their romance was filled with longing, angst, adoration, and a hint of spice. Absolutely perfect. As with the book, it was paced well. Friends to lovers with a lot of laying themselves bare with their feelings. chef’s kiss.
October 20, 2024
I loved this Twelve Princesses retelling, but then, I LOVE all RL Perez's books! She puts a unique twist in all her stories, her compelling writing drawns me in every time and I come out my haze only at the end of the book, a haze I've fallen into, tuning out all around me, because I'm hooked each time! Her character descriptions are exceptional, all fully painted, strong, all individually unique. Although I do adore Fenn, Marek and Adira were the true stars. He, a Fae and wounded soldier, his heart long lost to her, she a Princess, human and unattainable. Both stole MY heart! Ms Perez brings in the mystery, the danger, the action and the love to a beautiful conclusion, one where my own heart sings with joy! Loved this story so much, especially this twisty unique version.
December 22, 2025
3.5 stars, rounded up.
It was good. Some scenes came out of nowhere, and felt kind of out of character for the MCs. For example, she would say she trusts him, and act like it, and then out of the blue she yells at him because how dare he make decisions in his area of expertise. Only to end up acknowleding he knows best in the situation and doing what he asked in the first place. There were only a couple of instances of this, and the example I mentioned was the most blatant and most out of character. Nothing would have changed if that scene wasn't included. I can't understand the purpose of it. Otherwise it was entertainig, and not too bad.
It was good. Some scenes came out of nowhere, and felt kind of out of character for the MCs. For example, she would say she trusts him, and act like it, and then out of the blue she yells at him because how dare he make decisions in his area of expertise. Only to end up acknowleding he knows best in the situation and doing what he asked in the first place. There were only a couple of instances of this, and the example I mentioned was the most blatant and most out of character. Nothing would have changed if that scene wasn't included. I can't understand the purpose of it. Otherwise it was entertainig, and not too bad.
August 22, 2024
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Such a wonderful fae version of the twelve dancing princesses!! I thoroughly enjoyed it being told through the MMC POV, as most fantasies start off with the FMC and branch off from there.
Marek, receives word from his childhood friend, Adira, that she and her sisters may be in danger. And he may be the only one to help them. Fighting his true feelings since the day he left the Court of Twilight, he now returns to help the one who holds his heart.
Although short, it was perfectly sweet with a touch of spice.
Hopefully we get to see more of Marek and Adira 👀
Such a wonderful fae version of the twelve dancing princesses!! I thoroughly enjoyed it being told through the MMC POV, as most fantasies start off with the FMC and branch off from there.
Marek, receives word from his childhood friend, Adira, that she and her sisters may be in danger. And he may be the only one to help them. Fighting his true feelings since the day he left the Court of Twilight, he now returns to help the one who holds his heart.
Although short, it was perfectly sweet with a touch of spice.
Hopefully we get to see more of Marek and Adira 👀
September 9, 2024
What a fantastically written prequel to the Crowns of the Fae series!
Crown Of Twelve is a retelling of the German fairy tale, The Twelve Dancing Princesses... Albeit, this one has much more action, romance and a little spice thrown in!
Highly recommend this short, fast-paced novella told from the MMCs POV that opens you up to a world full of magic, mischievous plots, and characters to love (and some to hate.) Read in one sitting - then continue on to the first full-blown novel in the series, Crown Of Slumber!
Crown Of Twelve is a retelling of the German fairy tale, The Twelve Dancing Princesses... Albeit, this one has much more action, romance and a little spice thrown in!
Highly recommend this short, fast-paced novella told from the MMCs POV that opens you up to a world full of magic, mischievous plots, and characters to love (and some to hate.) Read in one sitting - then continue on to the first full-blown novel in the series, Crown Of Slumber!
September 12, 2024
An enchanting story full of magic, mystery and love.
Friends to lovers theme with a little bit of spice.
When Marek gets a letter from his childhood friend Princess Adira asking for his help he has no idea that they would end up chasing her missing sisters into a dream world ruled by a ruthless queen. With the help of his magic and their combined courage, they discover not only the missing princesses but also their love for one another which they have been hiding from eachother for years.
Friends to lovers theme with a little bit of spice.
When Marek gets a letter from his childhood friend Princess Adira asking for his help he has no idea that they would end up chasing her missing sisters into a dream world ruled by a ruthless queen. With the help of his magic and their combined courage, they discover not only the missing princesses but also their love for one another which they have been hiding from eachother for years.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 6, 2025
This was such an enchanting read for me. I’ve always loved fairy tale retellings, and this one put a fresh, magical twist on The Twelve Dancing Princesses. What really pulled me in was the chemistry between Marek and Adira—there’s so much unspoken emotion between them, and I couldn’t help but root for them. The mystery of the missing princesses kept me turning pages, and the mix of dark fae magic and court intrigue made the world feel rich and immersive. It’s a short but powerful story that left me wanting more, and I can't wait to continue the series!
September 16, 2025
I have been considering reading this series and in signing up for the author's newsletter l, I received a free Kindle copy of this novella.
Crown of Twelve is a wonderful, short retelling of a fairytale that doesn't normally get retold ( The twelve dancing princesses). It is well-written, engaging and enjoyable. Both the FMC and the MMC are likeable and their romance is sweet. It serves as a good glimpse into the larger world of this series. I certainly am looking forward to reading the next book.
Crown of Twelve is a wonderful, short retelling of a fairytale that doesn't normally get retold ( The twelve dancing princesses). It is well-written, engaging and enjoyable. Both the FMC and the MMC are likeable and their romance is sweet. It serves as a good glimpse into the larger world of this series. I certainly am looking forward to reading the next book.
April 7, 2024
Interesting ideas with dark fae causing problems, missing sisters, and loving someone you think you can’t/shouldn’t have. Touching dynamic between Adira and Marek; they are really sweet with each other. I do get frustrated with friends to more, but since this is a quick read, the frustration is a quick thing. I don’t know the source tale for this story, so I can’t compare, but this was an enjoyable read! Looking forward to this series! Love when fairy tales are reimagined!
August 24, 2024
I really enjoyed the story, I’ve not read many of this retelling so it’s nice that it’s different. I loved the twist of who our villain turned out to be. I also like that Addie and Marek worked so well together. There’s a little spice near the end and I’m still on the fence of calling this a slow burn romance but I still recommend to all romance and fantasy lovers. It was a great book to start off the series.
September 5, 2024
I absolutely adored this book!
Marek (Mango😭😍) rushes to the aide of his childhood friend, Princess Adira, after she sends him a letter that states something odd happening with her younger sisters.
Upon arriving, he finds out that they are now missing, and it's up to him and Adira to find out what happened to them and save them.
In a tale of hidden magic, family secrets, unyielding love: this dark retelling of The 12 Dancing Princesses will surely suck you and leave you wanting more.
Marek (Mango😭😍) rushes to the aide of his childhood friend, Princess Adira, after she sends him a letter that states something odd happening with her younger sisters.
Upon arriving, he finds out that they are now missing, and it's up to him and Adira to find out what happened to them and save them.
In a tale of hidden magic, family secrets, unyielding love: this dark retelling of The 12 Dancing Princesses will surely suck you and leave you wanting more.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 13, 2025
I love retellings especially when the authors put their own twist on it and this Twelve Dancing Princesses retelling is incredible. It’s a well paced, quick read that draws you in with incredible world building and a wonderful storyline not to mention Malek and Adira our fantastic mc’s in this fantastic romantic fantasy read! Throw in some action, some romance and some spice as well as a few twists and surprises you won’t see coming and you have a fabulous novella.
September 15, 2024
‘You’re being stupid, and I won’t hear of it.’
This is a highly enjoyable prequel novella that introduces us to the Crowns of the Fae and sets up the threat that is to come in book one while sharing Malek and Adira’s sweet love story and explaining how they come to rule the Twilight Kingdom. It’s not necessary to read it before Crown of Slumber but I would recommend that you do.
This is a highly enjoyable prequel novella that introduces us to the Crowns of the Fae and sets up the threat that is to come in book one while sharing Malek and Adira’s sweet love story and explaining how they come to rule the Twilight Kingdom. It’s not necessary to read it before Crown of Slumber but I would recommend that you do.
February 24, 2025
I love the retellings of old fairy tales, but this is the first one I've read with the 12 dancing princesses. It was cute and a short read. It's in the same world as Crown of Slumber, which was also a really good read. One of the characters in this is a main character in Crown of Slumber. I love the world building in these books and can't wait to read the next one.
May 19, 2025
I read crown of slumber prior to this one, but the story wasn’t ruined for me. I am not familiar with The 12 Dancing Princesses story so this was the original for me. I love that the author is doing “retellings” and think it is such a cool idea! Definitely looking forward to reading book 2 when it’s out!
March 14, 2026
3.25
I've always liked the Twelve Dancing Princesses so was looking forward to this novella. Overall, I enjoyed Perez's take on the fairytale. But, it took awhile to get interesting and some of the dialogue was a little cheesy. The end was also a bit rushed with one plot thread left dangling. So, had to do 3.25, but will be reading the next in the series.
I've always liked the Twelve Dancing Princesses so was looking forward to this novella. Overall, I enjoyed Perez's take on the fairytale. But, it took awhile to get interesting and some of the dialogue was a little cheesy. The end was also a bit rushed with one plot thread left dangling. So, had to do 3.25, but will be reading the next in the series.
September 23, 2026
This was a great introduction story to the wider Crowns of the Fae series. Although there is a slightly dark part of this story, it is overall a fairly light tale of two best friends finding their way to each other and their magic. The story itself has great pace and kept me turning the pages past my bed time. I'm eager to explore more of the Fae courts and to dive deeper into this world.
September 14, 2024
first time fae reader
As a first time fae reader I enjoyed the journey in this book. It was an easy read and it had some good suspense. I look forward to reading crown of slumber next.
As a first time fae reader I enjoyed the journey in this book. It was an easy read and it had some good suspense. I look forward to reading crown of slumber next.
January 20, 2025
I love fairy tale retellings, and this was a really good one of Twelve Dancing Princesses. There were enough differences to make it original and enough like the original to make it a "retelling" more than a "reimagining." FYI: it has one pretty steamy scene.
February 2, 2025
Thank you for the ARC!
This was a sweet retelling of a fairy tale turned into a captivating romantasy.
A well written novella with action, romance and magic - and spice.
I think Perez did a geat world building in the Crowns of the Fae series
This was a sweet retelling of a fairy tale turned into a captivating romantasy.
A well written novella with action, romance and magic - and spice.
I think Perez did a geat world building in the Crowns of the Fae series
July 2, 2026
A very interesting story. It’s a fast paced short story about a future queen who asks her childhood best friend to come and help solve a mystery. It has a lot of twists and elements that are intriguing. I already have crown of slumber and can’t wait to dive in.
August 14, 2026
Well, I am OBSESSED. That was adorable and spicy and just overall a delightful romp! I have yet to come across a Twelve Dancing Princesses retelling that I didn't love, and this fit the bill! Just delightful. Can't wait to read the Beauty and the Beast retelling!
October 18, 2026
The only thing is that i wish the book was longer and we were actually able to see the results of addie and mareks whole adventure plan thing. Like what happened to the princesses? Addies mother? Hopefully all the answers will be in book 1? Also man they did NOT need to have sex
March 10, 2024
A unique retelling of twelve dancing princesses with a hint of spice. I liked the changes made to the story to make it original, while still keeping it clearly identifiable. Thoroughly enjoyable.
August 21, 2024
It's a good, quick read. Fairytale notes with a touch of spice.
August 23, 2024
This prequel to Crown of Slumber is a fun quick read. It’s got a little bit of everything: romance, a touch of spice, fighting, magic…. Recommend!
September 15, 2024
I love it!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 42 reviews