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To Win a Dark Heart
Falling For the Trickster: A Reimagining of Rumpelstiltskin
Rumpelstiltskin meets The Goose Girl.
An opportunistic maid.
A manipulative faerie.
A gilded deal that binds them both.
Ottoline has had enough. After years of enduring Princess Gertrude’s cruelty, the maid’s patience snaps during their voyage to the foreign kingdom of Orcage, where the princess is to marry the crown prince to settle a royal debt. There, she crosses paths with a silver-haired, silver-tongued man with a penchant for deals and deception.
Cunning and ambitious, fae nobleman Lord Roderick von Ravenstock offers Ottoline the opportunity of a to switch places with her tormentor and claim the life of a princess.
With a snap of his fingers, she is set to live the life she had dreamed of at the glimmering court of Orcage...until its superstitious king demands she fulfill her kingdom's debt by turning everything into gold.
Trapped by her own masquerade, Ottoline turns to Roderick again, and he offers to save her, in exchange for a kiss.
One kiss. One favor. One step closer to ruin.
As the king’s demands escalate, so do Roderick’s bargains, each adding another layer to his plot against the royal family, and drawing her deeper into a deadly game of magic and court intrigue. But when the king’s greed spirals beyond control, Ottoline has no choice but to escape into Faerie where she falls from one monster’s grasp into the next.
Risking his plans, Roderick saves her and, as she recovers under his watchful gaze, the forced proximity begins to crack their defenses, revealing who they are underneath their roles as the trickster and the fraud. Villains in the lives of others, but heroes of their own stories.
Together, they plot one last con to bring the king to his knees. But nothing ever goes to plan, especially when hearts are on the line.
Falling For the Trickster is the first book in the To Win a Dark Heart series which retells fairytales as old as time, but this time it’s the villain’s turn to get a happy ending.
128 pages, Kindle Edition
Published January 16, 2026
12 people are currently reading
123 people want to read
About the author
Lucy Tempest
14 books310 followersAs the spawn of Trekkie comic book nerds, the importance of storytelling is an integral part of my being. Spinning tales since I learned to speak, now my books can take others through my adventures and necessary escapism.
I live with one foot in Florida with my family and two spoiled cats, and the other firmly lodged in fantasy.
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I live with one foot in Florida with my family and two spoiled cats, and the other firmly lodged in fantasy.
Follow me on Bookbub
Join my VIP mailing list by clicking HERE!
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Review of advance copy received from Author
“Are you quite finished, or are you going to toss the rest of your possessions at me, in the hope you’d suddenly develop a good aim?”
⋆౨ৎ《Now playing: Here I Am (Keira Version) from Barbie: The Princess and the Popstar》˚⟡˖ ࣪
~°❀My Thoughts❀°~
Looking at this book as a whole, it's so good! Now, don't take that the wrong way, I'm not joking, it is really good! I just wish it were longer. For one, well, because I wasn't ready to leave the world and characters yet, but also because I feel like the story could have been better if it were a bit longer, too. Like, what we did get was amazing, but I would have loved to have stayed in certain places longer, such as Faerie, and I think that the ending was just a tad bit rushed, so it could have used just a bit more page time.
I really liked the romance. It definitely sneaks up on you, haha. It was also super sweet!! 🥰 I would have loved to see more of it 🤭 and in Roderick's POV would have been nice, too… but sadly we didn't get that. So now I'm just going to need the author to write a short story or something *hint hint* 😉
But yeah, really good book! Y'all please read it so I have someone to talk to about this book!!
⋆౨ৎ《Here I am, being who I want
Giving what I got》˚⟡˖ ࣪
~°❀Characters❀°~
Ottoline:
First of all, I love her name! It reminds me of Swan Lake 🥰 but I just wish I loved the character as much as her name… She wasn't really bad, per se, she just really annoyed me at times at the beginning, but by the end of the book she definitely grew on me and grew as a character too.
Roderick:
Hehehehe I never thought I'd love a Rumpelstiltskin character, but here we are. 🤭 Lowkey he did worry me a bit when it came to wondering what his actions might be, but he just ended up being so considerate and caring that I couldn't help but love him!
⋆౨ৎ《Never a doubt now》˚⟡˖ ࣪
~°❀Book Cover Rating❀°~
7/10 Love the cover, only wish that the characters looked more like they're described in the book.
⋆౨ৎ《Here I go burning like a spark》˚⟡˖ ࣪
~°❀Content Warnings❀°~
(Warning! 🚨 Before you go any further, there is a chance that something I've said about the content will possibly be a bit spoilerish, so please proceed with caution! Also, if I missed any content, please let me know so I can add it!)
☆Trigger Warnings:
Mentions of physical abuse by a character's father. A character works for a very cruel person who hits her and says mean things to her. A character tries to unalive a character.
☆Faith based/Christian:
None
☆Other Religious Content:
Someone says gods once; a mention of the princess's ancestor, Irmintrude the Alchemist, who was the demigod daughter of the smithing god; mentions of Fates.
☆Violence:
A character gets slapped; a character attempt to kill another character with a knife; mentions of faeries being hunted; a character gets stabbed in the chest with a sword; a character seemingly dies; a character gets turned into gold; a character gets threatened to be thrown into the dungeons or worse, like having her head chopped off; a character gets locked in a room and left to die pretty much;
☆Sexual Content/Romance:
Mentions of marriage; kissing (up to semi-detailed); mentions of producing an heir and birthing children; a character thinks about sleeping in a bed with another character; a man carries a lady; mentions of corsets; characters get engaged.
☆Magic:
Mentions of sorcerers; a character makes a ball of fire appear in the palm of his hand; some characters are faeries; a character uses magic to switch characters positions in life; a character is made to wear a magic choker that forces her to do as a certain character says, and to not scream; characters use magic to turn certain metals into gold; mentions of a world called Faerie and portals between it and the human world; a human character goes to Faerie; a character meets a kelpie and trolls; a magical character gives a non-magical character a bracelet that allows her to use a certain kind of magic; magic wears characters out and makes them tired.
☆Bad Language:
None
☆LGBTQ+:
None
☆Drugs/Alcohol:
Mentions of wine. No drugs.
☆Miscellaneous:
A character lies a lot and because she was mistreated by her employer she wants to have revenge and do cruel things back to the employer.
⋆౨ৎ《Light up the dark again》˚⟡˖ ࣪
~°❀My Age Recommendation❀°~
15 years old and older
⋆౨ৎ《Here I am, being who I want》˚⟡˖ ࣪
~°❀Part of a series?❀°~
Yes, it is the – book in the To Win A Dark Heart multi-author series. They can all be read as standalones.
⋆౨ৎ《Giving what I got》˚⟡˖ ࣪
~°❀Will I read the rest of the series/more from this author?❀°~
I definitely plan to read the rest of the series soon because I got ARCs for most of them. And I do also plan to try more from this author.
⋆౨ৎ《Never a doubt now》˚⟡˖ ࣪
~❀Would I re-read this book?❀°~
I will most likely!
⋆౨ৎ《Here I go, burning like a spark》˚⟡˖ ࣪
~°❀Books similar to this one❀°~
If you want another Rumpelstiltskin retelling, then check out The Princess Pact by Melanie Cellier!
I don't have any Goose Girl retelling recs yet, but I hope to get some soon!
If y'all have any recs that you think would be similar to this book or are retellings of some of the same stories, please let me know! 🫶🏻
⋆౨ৎ《Light up the dark again》˚⟡˖ ࣪
*I received a free copy of this book from the author. A review was not required. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
⋆౨ৎ《Now playing: Here I Am (Keira Version) from Barbie: The Princess and the Popstar》˚⟡˖ ࣪
~°❀My Thoughts❀°~
Looking at this book as a whole, it's so good! Now, don't take that the wrong way, I'm not joking, it is really good! I just wish it were longer. For one, well, because I wasn't ready to leave the world and characters yet, but also because I feel like the story could have been better if it were a bit longer, too. Like, what we did get was amazing, but I would have loved to have stayed in certain places longer, such as Faerie, and I think that the ending was just a tad bit rushed, so it could have used just a bit more page time.
I really liked the romance. It definitely sneaks up on you, haha. It was also super sweet!! 🥰 I would have loved to see more of it 🤭 and in Roderick's POV would have been nice, too… but sadly we didn't get that. So now I'm just going to need the author to write a short story or something *hint hint* 😉
But yeah, really good book! Y'all please read it so I have someone to talk to about this book!!
⋆౨ৎ《Here I am, being who I want
Giving what I got》˚⟡˖ ࣪
~°❀Characters❀°~
Ottoline:
First of all, I love her name! It reminds me of Swan Lake 🥰 but I just wish I loved the character as much as her name… She wasn't really bad, per se, she just really annoyed me at times at the beginning, but by the end of the book she definitely grew on me and grew as a character too.
Roderick:
Hehehehe I never thought I'd love a Rumpelstiltskin character, but here we are. 🤭 Lowkey he did worry me a bit when it came to wondering what his actions might be, but he just ended up being so considerate and caring that I couldn't help but love him!
⋆౨ৎ《Never a doubt now》˚⟡˖ ࣪
~°❀Book Cover Rating❀°~
7/10 Love the cover, only wish that the characters looked more like they're described in the book.
⋆౨ৎ《Here I go burning like a spark》˚⟡˖ ࣪
~°❀Content Warnings❀°~
(Warning! 🚨 Before you go any further, there is a chance that something I've said about the content will possibly be a bit spoilerish, so please proceed with caution! Also, if I missed any content, please let me know so I can add it!)
☆Trigger Warnings:
Mentions of physical abuse by a character's father. A character works for a very cruel person who hits her and says mean things to her. A character tries to unalive a character.
☆Faith based/Christian:
None
☆Other Religious Content:
Someone says gods once; a mention of the princess's ancestor, Irmintrude the Alchemist, who was the demigod daughter of the smithing god; mentions of Fates.
☆Violence:
A character gets slapped; a character attempt to kill another character with a knife; mentions of faeries being hunted; a character gets stabbed in the chest with a sword; a character seemingly dies; a character gets turned into gold; a character gets threatened to be thrown into the dungeons or worse, like having her head chopped off; a character gets locked in a room and left to die pretty much;
☆Sexual Content/Romance:
Mentions of marriage; kissing (up to semi-detailed); mentions of producing an heir and birthing children; a character thinks about sleeping in a bed with another character; a man carries a lady; mentions of corsets; characters get engaged.
☆Magic:
Mentions of sorcerers; a character makes a ball of fire appear in the palm of his hand; some characters are faeries; a character uses magic to switch characters positions in life; a character is made to wear a magic choker that forces her to do as a certain character says, and to not scream; characters use magic to turn certain metals into gold; mentions of a world called Faerie and portals between it and the human world; a human character goes to Faerie; a character meets a kelpie and trolls; a magical character gives a non-magical character a bracelet that allows her to use a certain kind of magic; magic wears characters out and makes them tired.
☆Bad Language:
None
☆LGBTQ+:
None
☆Drugs/Alcohol:
Mentions of wine. No drugs.
☆Miscellaneous:
A character lies a lot and because she was mistreated by her employer she wants to have revenge and do cruel things back to the employer.
⋆౨ৎ《Light up the dark again》˚⟡˖ ࣪
~°❀My Age Recommendation❀°~
15 years old and older
⋆౨ৎ《Here I am, being who I want》˚⟡˖ ࣪
~°❀Part of a series?❀°~
Yes, it is the – book in the To Win A Dark Heart multi-author series. They can all be read as standalones.
⋆౨ৎ《Giving what I got》˚⟡˖ ࣪
~°❀Will I read the rest of the series/more from this author?❀°~
I definitely plan to read the rest of the series soon because I got ARCs for most of them. And I do also plan to try more from this author.
⋆౨ৎ《Never a doubt now》˚⟡˖ ࣪
~❀Would I re-read this book?❀°~
I will most likely!
⋆౨ৎ《Here I go, burning like a spark》˚⟡˖ ࣪
~°❀Books similar to this one❀°~
If you want another Rumpelstiltskin retelling, then check out The Princess Pact by Melanie Cellier!
I don't have any Goose Girl retelling recs yet, but I hope to get some soon!
If y'all have any recs that you think would be similar to this book or are retellings of some of the same stories, please let me know! 🫶🏻
⋆౨ৎ《Light up the dark again》˚⟡˖ ࣪
*I received a free copy of this book from the author. A review was not required. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Review of advance copy received from Author
this was a lovely quick read. I loved the twist on the story. and the characters were very fun to read!
Review of advance copy received from Author
This no-spice fairytale retelling was a great gaslamp fantasy novella! There was royalty, class differences, hidden identities, and revenge plots. I loved the whimsical world-building, which was descriptive and made the scenes come to life. I enjoyed each character's growth and their different motivations that impacted the story. I highly recommend this Rumpelstiltskin and The Goose Girl twist that the author melded together nicely!
Being Princess Gertrude's maid, Ottoline just wanted to be respected and hoped for a fresh start in a new kingdom. So when she was given the chance to magically trade places with her, by the deceptively cunning Roderick, she seizes the opportunity. Hoping to live the life she's always dreamed of and be wed to a prince, she discovers that the King of Orcage has other plans for the princess. Wanting more than a betrothal to his son, and thinking that the real princess's bloodline holds magic, he demands she turn things into gold. Seeking Roderick's help again, he strikes a new bargain with Ottoline, one that will help his plot against the king. When she tries to escape her fate, she faces dangers that Roderick saves her from and helps her recover.
Will they learn to trust each other, come up with a plan to thwart the king, and get what they both want?
I received an Advanced Reader Copy with no expectation of a review.
All opinions are my own.
Being Princess Gertrude's maid, Ottoline just wanted to be respected and hoped for a fresh start in a new kingdom. So when she was given the chance to magically trade places with her, by the deceptively cunning Roderick, she seizes the opportunity. Hoping to live the life she's always dreamed of and be wed to a prince, she discovers that the King of Orcage has other plans for the princess. Wanting more than a betrothal to his son, and thinking that the real princess's bloodline holds magic, he demands she turn things into gold. Seeking Roderick's help again, he strikes a new bargain with Ottoline, one that will help his plot against the king. When she tries to escape her fate, she faces dangers that Roderick saves her from and helps her recover.
Will they learn to trust each other, come up with a plan to thwart the king, and get what they both want?
I received an Advanced Reader Copy with no expectation of a review.
All opinions are my own.
December 27, 2025
(4.5) ARC Review - Falling for the Trickster by Lucy Tempest.
I really enjoyed this Goose Girl and Rumpelstiltskin retelling. It was a fun and interesting read.
At first I didn’t like the character of Ottoline. She felt like a rude person even though the princess was mean to her, I felt she was rude and sensitive at the start of the book. But she grew within the story and ended up being not too bad. She grew on me.
I enjoyed watching the relationship grow without either of them really realizing what’s happening or possibly being a bit blindsided because of the deals that were made. Either way, it was cute to see it developing.
Roderick was a difficult character to place from the start. You always wonder if he’s the villain with bad intentions? What will be his next move? But I enjoyed him throughout the story.
Lastly I just want to mention that the King (and his son) was a terrible person… the King got what he deserved. It made my heart happy.
This is the first book of Lucy that I’ve read. Her writing is flowing and easy to follow. I’d like to read more of her work.
Highly recommended to anyone who enjoys a clean fairytale retelling.
I really enjoyed this Goose Girl and Rumpelstiltskin retelling. It was a fun and interesting read.
At first I didn’t like the character of Ottoline. She felt like a rude person even though the princess was mean to her, I felt she was rude and sensitive at the start of the book. But she grew within the story and ended up being not too bad. She grew on me.
I enjoyed watching the relationship grow without either of them really realizing what’s happening or possibly being a bit blindsided because of the deals that were made. Either way, it was cute to see it developing.
Roderick was a difficult character to place from the start. You always wonder if he’s the villain with bad intentions? What will be his next move? But I enjoyed him throughout the story.
Lastly I just want to mention that the King (and his son) was a terrible person… the King got what he deserved. It made my heart happy.
This is the first book of Lucy that I’ve read. Her writing is flowing and easy to follow. I’d like to read more of her work.
Highly recommended to anyone who enjoys a clean fairytale retelling.
January 25, 2026
I received an ARC of this book and am leaving a review voluntarily
I love when authors do fairy tale mash ups. It makes the story all the more unpredictable and this one uses my favorite fairy tale, Rumplestilskin, and slams it together with one I almost never see The Goose Girl. You could also call it a Prince and the Pauper tale as well, depending on your angle.
I really love how we immediately sympathize with our main character but she isn’t perfect. She has her moments of selfishness, of wanting to run, of pride but you can totally see why. It makes her realistic, not annoying. And I love that the seriousness of her situation is never underplayed. She is essentially committing treason and it’s given the weight it should be.
Roderick I adore because he has everything I love with Fae—clever, but charismatic. His own interests but he has a moral compass. You can absolutely see why someone would fall for him. And all his dialogue is simply chef’s kiss.
I loved this mash up and now I must go read the others!
I love when authors do fairy tale mash ups. It makes the story all the more unpredictable and this one uses my favorite fairy tale, Rumplestilskin, and slams it together with one I almost never see The Goose Girl. You could also call it a Prince and the Pauper tale as well, depending on your angle.
I really love how we immediately sympathize with our main character but she isn’t perfect. She has her moments of selfishness, of wanting to run, of pride but you can totally see why. It makes her realistic, not annoying. And I love that the seriousness of her situation is never underplayed. She is essentially committing treason and it’s given the weight it should be.
Roderick I adore because he has everything I love with Fae—clever, but charismatic. His own interests but he has a moral compass. You can absolutely see why someone would fall for him. And all his dialogue is simply chef’s kiss.
I loved this mash up and now I must go read the others!
Review of advance copy received from Author
BOOK REVIEW
Falling for the Trickster
by Lucy Tempest
This was such a fun, quick read. I had never read a Rumpelstiltskin retelling like this and thought it was both clever and creative. Ottoline and Roderick were both interesting characters. I particularly enjoyed Ottoline's growth and her decision in the end to be truthful. I do think there could be much more to this story because it read more like a novella, but it was enjoyable despite it being shorter. So, if you are looking for a light weekend fantasy read with fairie bargains, impossible demands, and morally gray hero/heroine this would be the book for you!!
My Ratings:
Romance: G-sweet kisses
Language: G-no swears
Content Warnings: mention of abuse and some violence (nothing overly descriptive)
*Thank you to the author for the opportunity to get an advanced reader copy to review. All opinions are my own.
Falling for the Trickster
by Lucy Tempest
This was such a fun, quick read. I had never read a Rumpelstiltskin retelling like this and thought it was both clever and creative. Ottoline and Roderick were both interesting characters. I particularly enjoyed Ottoline's growth and her decision in the end to be truthful. I do think there could be much more to this story because it read more like a novella, but it was enjoyable despite it being shorter. So, if you are looking for a light weekend fantasy read with fairie bargains, impossible demands, and morally gray hero/heroine this would be the book for you!!
My Ratings:
Romance: G-sweet kisses
Language: G-no swears
Content Warnings: mention of abuse and some violence (nothing overly descriptive)
*Thank you to the author for the opportunity to get an advanced reader copy to review. All opinions are my own.
Review of advance copy received from Author
What a great start for To Win a Dark Heart!
The main characters are thought of as villians in their own tales, but twisted together they are definitely the heroes of this tale. It's a good mix of The Goose Girl and Rumpelstiltskin, with a dash of King Midas thrown in for good measure.
"The easiest choices are hardly ever the best ones to make."
The FMC is tired of being mistreated by the princess, and when she has the opportunity to make a fae deal to trade lives with her, she takes it. However, the princess is promised to marry the son of a greedy king, who thinks she can turn items to gold. Soon she finds out that this fae deal might not lead her to the happily-ever-after she expected, but it may lead her to a better life than the one she had.
The main characters are thought of as villians in their own tales, but twisted together they are definitely the heroes of this tale. It's a good mix of The Goose Girl and Rumpelstiltskin, with a dash of King Midas thrown in for good measure.
"The easiest choices are hardly ever the best ones to make."
The FMC is tired of being mistreated by the princess, and when she has the opportunity to make a fae deal to trade lives with her, she takes it. However, the princess is promised to marry the son of a greedy king, who thinks she can turn items to gold. Soon she finds out that this fae deal might not lead her to the happily-ever-after she expected, but it may lead her to a better life than the one she had.
January 16, 2026
This was such a good mashup. I thoroughly enjoyed the writing as well as how effortlessly the author mixed the fairytales.
January 3, 2026
This was a super fun read. I was not expecting some of the plot twists that happen and I was so happy that they happen because sometimes when I read a Rumpel still skin retelling, you get a lot of the basics and of the magic deals and this just surprise me in a lot of ways that I don’t want to spoil for other readers I love the story. I love the characters. I love the humbling way that many people are putting in their place in this story. I definitely recommend to those who like the Rumpelstiltskin retelling but want something kind of fresh and new with that story.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Falling for the Trickster by Lucy Tempest was the seventh or eighth ARC I received from To Win a Dark Heart, a multi-author series of villainous fairy tale retellings. When I realized it was the first in the series and released this weekend, I bumped it up on my list. This is the perfect book to kick off the series since it directly follows the premise of combining two fairy tales and bringing two villains together without overcomplicating it by adding additional layers. The book is a retelling of "Rumpelstiltskin" and "The Goose Girl" with a heavier focus on "Rumpelstiltskin." It is a swoony fairy tale romance with relatable characters that takes place in a whimsical world of humans and fae.
Ottoline was frustrated by her life of servitude to the spoiled Princess Gertrude, who mistreated her so badly that a fae noble took pity on her. Roderick granted Ottoline the power to impersonate Princess Gertrude just in time to meet her betrothed, a prince from a kingdom with a perilous history. The princess's alliance was formed in the hopes that it would mend the rift between their two kingdoms, but the prince's father had other ideas. The wicked king took all his frustration with the kingdom's struggles out on the princess, forcing Ottoline to bear the burden meant for Gertrude and seek Roderick's help yet again for the impossible task of turning ordinary objects into gold.
This book adds just enough intrigue to the familiar tale of "Rumpelstiltskin" to make it feel fresh and original. Both characters have understandable motives and are not as villainous as their original fairy tale counterparts. Roderick seeks fair treatment for fae in the human realm, and Ottoline is reluctant to continue impersonating her mistress until she realizes how much Princess Gertrude would have been tormented by the wicked king. The romance that develops between them is similar to Cora's backstory in Once Upon a Time, with Ottoline requesting magic lessons to perform the task required of her by her own hand and bonding with Roderick in the process.
The ruthlessness of the king was a notable addition that tied this retelling together. In the original fairy tale, the king threatened to kill the miller's daughter if she did not provide enough gold, but he was presented as more ignorant and misguided than pure evil and is still accepted as the future princess's father-in-law by the end of the story. Here, there is no redemption for him, and it becomes clear that his demands of Ottoline are not out of greed but a sick desire to watch her suffer. This makes Roderick's desire to protect her all the more profound, allowing readers to root for them as a couple.
Falling for the Trickster is the perfect book to introduce To Win a Dark Heart, breathing new life into the classic tales of "Rumpelstiltskin" and "The Goose Girl." Lucy Tempest's whimsical world-building and relatable characters make for a swoon-worthy romance that's both fresh and familiar. With its blend of intrigue and heart, this book sets the stage for a series of dual fairy tale retellings that's sure to delight fans. Check out this newly released book, which is sure to become a favorite of the new year!
Ottoline was frustrated by her life of servitude to the spoiled Princess Gertrude, who mistreated her so badly that a fae noble took pity on her. Roderick granted Ottoline the power to impersonate Princess Gertrude just in time to meet her betrothed, a prince from a kingdom with a perilous history. The princess's alliance was formed in the hopes that it would mend the rift between their two kingdoms, but the prince's father had other ideas. The wicked king took all his frustration with the kingdom's struggles out on the princess, forcing Ottoline to bear the burden meant for Gertrude and seek Roderick's help yet again for the impossible task of turning ordinary objects into gold.
This book adds just enough intrigue to the familiar tale of "Rumpelstiltskin" to make it feel fresh and original. Both characters have understandable motives and are not as villainous as their original fairy tale counterparts. Roderick seeks fair treatment for fae in the human realm, and Ottoline is reluctant to continue impersonating her mistress until she realizes how much Princess Gertrude would have been tormented by the wicked king. The romance that develops between them is similar to Cora's backstory in Once Upon a Time, with Ottoline requesting magic lessons to perform the task required of her by her own hand and bonding with Roderick in the process.
The ruthlessness of the king was a notable addition that tied this retelling together. In the original fairy tale, the king threatened to kill the miller's daughter if she did not provide enough gold, but he was presented as more ignorant and misguided than pure evil and is still accepted as the future princess's father-in-law by the end of the story. Here, there is no redemption for him, and it becomes clear that his demands of Ottoline are not out of greed but a sick desire to watch her suffer. This makes Roderick's desire to protect her all the more profound, allowing readers to root for them as a couple.
Falling for the Trickster is the perfect book to introduce To Win a Dark Heart, breathing new life into the classic tales of "Rumpelstiltskin" and "The Goose Girl." Lucy Tempest's whimsical world-building and relatable characters make for a swoon-worthy romance that's both fresh and familiar. With its blend of intrigue and heart, this book sets the stage for a series of dual fairy tale retellings that's sure to delight fans. Check out this newly released book, which is sure to become a favorite of the new year!
reviewed
January 5, 2026Genre: Fantasy, fairy tale retelling [of Rumpelstiltskin and the Goose Girl with a drop of the King Midas myth]
Tropes: Switching places, false identities
Setting: Germany, Fairie
Writing style: 1st person, past tense
Tone: Serious with desperate moments
Character- or plot-driven: Something of both
Romance: Yes
Clean level: 1 mouth kiss minimally described but including the less-clean phrasing of lips moving against each other, 1 barely described
Sensitive aspects:
• Threat of being roasted alive then having body broken to be eaten by trolls
• Character left to die in a vault stuffed with gold, though she is rescued just in time
• Gods; referenced, do not appear
Thoughts on main characters: Ottoline is understandably driven by her desire to give the princess a taste of her own medicine, though it could be argued that makes her no better than the princess. She’s therefore sympathetic but certainly no heroine. Roderick is suitably hard to read initially, though I don’t think it’s a spoiler to say he proves himself to have honorable intentions. His actions are for the good of his people, not just himself.
The two tales are seamlessly synthesized into an engaging narrative, though unfortunately the end felt much too rushed. This retelling foregoes the geese and the talking horse, choosing to focus on the switch and the gold.
The miller’s daughter from Rumpelstiltskin is made into the lady’s maid from The Goose Girl. Rather than spinning straw into gold, she must transform entire treasuries of metal into gold to pay back a debt the princess’s father owes King Wilhelm of Orcage. Instead of marrying the king himself, the princess is intended for his son.
King Wilhelm is brutal and vicious, his greed for gold implicitly compared to that of King Midas, with an element of that myth woven into the story. Though the prince is not cruel, he is a spineless coward who never even pretends to care about Ottoline’s safety. Ottoline is fortunate to have Roderick, and to be able to leave the princess to the prince. The real intendeds frankly deserve each other.
Ottoline and Roderick’s positions in society mirror each other, making them a fitting pair. Both are treated as objects to be manipulated at the whim of the powerful; for different reasons, neither is regarded as an equal citizen with a will of their own.
____________________________________
“I’d come to dread a life where I always struggled to lure words out of his tight-lipped mouth, not to mention being in the same bed every night, only to be completely ignored.” In this time period, they would have had separate bedchambers.
Favorite Quotations:
• This entire situation made as much sense as a fish scurrying on land[.]
• But instead of being ushered into a life of ease, I had been flung over a cliff. Now I had to wait and see if I’d land on the sharp rocks, or in the deep sea.
• “The next time you lie to me, you’re going to the dungeon.” What would he do to me if he knew that I myself was the lie?
• “Are you quite finished, or are you going to toss the rest of your possessions at me, in the hope you’d suddenly develop good aim?”
• [H]is eyes put the sky to shame.
• [...] “Is that a proposal, Lord von Ravenstock?” “It is[...]After all, you still owe me a firstborn.”
(I received a free ARC of this book from the author and am gratefully—voluntarily—leaving a review.)
Tropes: Switching places, false identities
Setting: Germany, Fairie
Writing style: 1st person, past tense
Tone: Serious with desperate moments
Character- or plot-driven: Something of both
Romance: Yes
Clean level: 1 mouth kiss minimally described but including the less-clean phrasing of lips moving against each other, 1 barely described
Sensitive aspects:
• Threat of being roasted alive then having body broken to be eaten by trolls
• Character left to die in a vault stuffed with gold, though she is rescued just in time
• Gods; referenced, do not appear
Thoughts on main characters: Ottoline is understandably driven by her desire to give the princess a taste of her own medicine, though it could be argued that makes her no better than the princess. She’s therefore sympathetic but certainly no heroine. Roderick is suitably hard to read initially, though I don’t think it’s a spoiler to say he proves himself to have honorable intentions. His actions are for the good of his people, not just himself.
The two tales are seamlessly synthesized into an engaging narrative, though unfortunately the end felt much too rushed. This retelling foregoes the geese and the talking horse, choosing to focus on the switch and the gold.
The miller’s daughter from Rumpelstiltskin is made into the lady’s maid from The Goose Girl. Rather than spinning straw into gold, she must transform entire treasuries of metal into gold to pay back a debt the princess’s father owes King Wilhelm of Orcage. Instead of marrying the king himself, the princess is intended for his son.
King Wilhelm is brutal and vicious, his greed for gold implicitly compared to that of King Midas, with an element of that myth woven into the story. Though the prince is not cruel, he is a spineless coward who never even pretends to care about Ottoline’s safety. Ottoline is fortunate to have Roderick, and to be able to leave the princess to the prince. The real intendeds frankly deserve each other.
Ottoline and Roderick’s positions in society mirror each other, making them a fitting pair. Both are treated as objects to be manipulated at the whim of the powerful; for different reasons, neither is regarded as an equal citizen with a will of their own.
____________________________________
“I’d come to dread a life where I always struggled to lure words out of his tight-lipped mouth, not to mention being in the same bed every night, only to be completely ignored.” In this time period, they would have had separate bedchambers.
Favorite Quotations:
• This entire situation made as much sense as a fish scurrying on land[.]
• But instead of being ushered into a life of ease, I had been flung over a cliff. Now I had to wait and see if I’d land on the sharp rocks, or in the deep sea.
• “The next time you lie to me, you’re going to the dungeon.” What would he do to me if he knew that I myself was the lie?
• “Are you quite finished, or are you going to toss the rest of your possessions at me, in the hope you’d suddenly develop good aim?”
• [H]is eyes put the sky to shame.
• [...] “Is that a proposal, Lord von Ravenstock?” “It is[...]After all, you still owe me a firstborn.”
(I received a free ARC of this book from the author and am gratefully—voluntarily—leaving a review.)
January 17, 2026
Ottoline knew working as Princess Gertrude's maid was not going to be an easy job. But anything was better than living with her abusive father. After working for Gertrude for years she contemplates leaving but knows the money is worth the indignity. That was until the voyage to an ally kingdom. When Princess Gertrude was sent to wed the prince of Orcage she was allowed to bring her maid and now Ottoline is hoping to make the most of this new chapter in her life. But the princess pushed Ottoline too far this time and the abuses from over the years finally made her say ‘no’ to the entitled royal. While cooling off from their encounter she is approached by a cloaked stranger that mysteriously appeared. A stranger that turns out to be a sorcerer that offers her a deal that she cannot refuse. Trading places with Gertrude and living a life of luxury, a life she deserves. Ottoline knows there is a catch and agrees to the terms set. But once in Orcage she realizes that the life of luxury she assumed would be hers disappears under the greed of the king. He asks for an impossible task, that she magically turns items to gold to repay the war debt the King of Avongart incurred with him. Ottoline doesn't have magic and she knows Gertrude doesn't quickly realizing the sorcerer tricked her and is several steps ahead in a game he set up with her as a pawn.
This was a clever way to bring these two tales together where the overlap makes sense. I'm not sure I would call this a dark retelling but it definitely has a brutally honest lean with the royalty being abusive and separated from reality. Ottoline finds herself in a life she does not want or how to get out both before and after Roderick came to her. Roderick has a justified cause but definitely did not think his plan fully through (don't want to say too much since I don't want to spoil things). I can appreciate that they both try to make the best of the situation that they created in wanting to find better. There are little bits from the author's main series but not enough to distract or be an issue if you haven't read any of her other work. I was very excited to see this author publish again, I have enjoyed her writing in the past and knew I wanted to add this to my collection.
This was a clever way to bring these two tales together where the overlap makes sense. I'm not sure I would call this a dark retelling but it definitely has a brutally honest lean with the royalty being abusive and separated from reality. Ottoline finds herself in a life she does not want or how to get out both before and after Roderick came to her. Roderick has a justified cause but definitely did not think his plan fully through (don't want to say too much since I don't want to spoil things). I can appreciate that they both try to make the best of the situation that they created in wanting to find better. There are little bits from the author's main series but not enough to distract or be an issue if you haven't read any of her other work. I was very excited to see this author publish again, I have enjoyed her writing in the past and knew I wanted to add this to my collection.
January 9, 2026
I received a ARC copy of this book and even though I wasn’t required to post a review, I wanted to offer my honest, voluntary impression of it.
This is a mashup of two fairy tales, The Goose Girl and Rumpelstiltskin. A maid has been mistreated for 3 years by a spoiled princess finally has had enough and when a stranger asks if she wants her life to be different she agrees and he causes an illusion to make everyone believe she is the princess and the princess is her.
However, when they arrive where the princess is to be married to the prince, the king demands she turns
his wealth to gold. Left alone the stranger appears and does it for her on condition of a bargain with her.
The greedy king wants more and for another bargain she is given the gift herself but still he wants more!
Through trials and tribulations she finds what and who she really wants to be as well as with whom she wants to spend her life with.
I have always enjoyed fairy tales and have enjoyed reading various versions of these two stories previously and this one is no exception. I genuinely enjoyed this book and happily recommend it as one all who enjoy fairytales will enjoy. Even those who think they’re too old for the wonder and magic of this genre should put aside their old assumptions and give this book a read! Let the wonder you felt when you heard fairy tales when you were younger settle inside you again and make you remember how you felt when you enjoyed hearing or reading them yourself! The magic to charm and give you a refreshing sense of enjoyment again will astound you!
I hope you will come back and enjoy these stories again as this is the first in a series by multiple authors
which combine two fairy tales into stories you’re going to love!
This is a mashup of two fairy tales, The Goose Girl and Rumpelstiltskin. A maid has been mistreated for 3 years by a spoiled princess finally has had enough and when a stranger asks if she wants her life to be different she agrees and he causes an illusion to make everyone believe she is the princess and the princess is her.
However, when they arrive where the princess is to be married to the prince, the king demands she turns
his wealth to gold. Left alone the stranger appears and does it for her on condition of a bargain with her.
The greedy king wants more and for another bargain she is given the gift herself but still he wants more!
Through trials and tribulations she finds what and who she really wants to be as well as with whom she wants to spend her life with.
I have always enjoyed fairy tales and have enjoyed reading various versions of these two stories previously and this one is no exception. I genuinely enjoyed this book and happily recommend it as one all who enjoy fairytales will enjoy. Even those who think they’re too old for the wonder and magic of this genre should put aside their old assumptions and give this book a read! Let the wonder you felt when you heard fairy tales when you were younger settle inside you again and make you remember how you felt when you enjoyed hearing or reading them yourself! The magic to charm and give you a refreshing sense of enjoyment again will astound you!
I hope you will come back and enjoy these stories again as this is the first in a series by multiple authors
which combine two fairy tales into stories you’re going to love!
January 16, 2026
BROUGHT TO YOU BY:
1. Me wondering how the maid in the Goose Girl got away with the swap and what happened to her.
2. How much King Midas and Rumpelstiltskin felt like they should exist in the same narrative.
3. My thing for white-haired men. And men with pointed ears. No, I did not have a childhood crush on Legolas, why do you ask?
4. Carly Rae Jepsen's iconic pop masterpiece Run Away With Me. Do yourself a favor and give its album, EMOTION, a spin 🥰
Not going to lie, this book was written in bouts of clarity during a very rough time. It allowed me a sweet escape for a few minutes at a time, where I got to listen to my sugary tunes, go down aesthetic rabbit holes about Austria, click through inspo on Pinterest, and spend way too much time on Behindthename.com figuring out what I'm going to call my villain protagonists.
Roderick and Ottoline are our Rumpelstiltskin and the Evil-Maid-from-the-Goose-Girl in this Villain4Villain romance. Writing about how they got wrapped up in each other's stories, while being the villains in someone else's tale, was as much fun as planning the series with my fellow authors was.
Don't forget, this is Book 1 of 12, and each book in To Win A Dark Heart is a pairing of two fairy tale villains you would have never thought would work, but do in the most exciting way possible.
Fill up your TBR and mark your calendars, you're getting on every week until April. In the meantime, enjoy FALLING FOR THE TRICKSTER!
Happy reading!
Lucy
January 22, 2026
4,5 stars rounded to 5
Falling for the Trickster is the first book in the To Win A Dark Heart multiauthor series where two characters we usually know as villains fall for each other and get their happy end. In some cases these villains are just misunderstood and there’s a good explanation for their crimes, in others they start as actually quite evil and have a real redemption arc.
In this fairytale mashup Ottoline, the maid from Goose Girl who switches places with her princess, falls in love with Rumpelstiltskin - a faerie named Roderick.
I have to admit it took me some time to get used to Ottoline. Even though she was not treated fairly by any means by Princess Gertrude, I really didn’t like her attitude. She was really bitter, petty and rude in the beginning, but I guess this is supposed to make her character growth a bit more obvious.
But I did warm up to her eventually and I definitely enjoyed her interactions with Roderick. The romance was sweet and I loved how the author mixed elements from the original Rumpelstiltskin with completely new ideas. There were parts that seemed a bit rushed (it is a fairly short novella), but I never felt like there were missing pieces and the author added some unexpected twists and turns and I found myself curious about how this would play out. It’s a quick read that I finished in one sitting and which kept me engaged til the end.
This was a really fun fairytale mashup that I recommend if you - like me - love Rumpelstiltskin retellings and are always looking for new unique versions.
* Thank you to the author for letting me read an advanced copy of this book. I leave this review voluntarily and the expressed opinions are my own.
Falling for the Trickster is the first book in the To Win A Dark Heart multiauthor series where two characters we usually know as villains fall for each other and get their happy end. In some cases these villains are just misunderstood and there’s a good explanation for their crimes, in others they start as actually quite evil and have a real redemption arc.
In this fairytale mashup Ottoline, the maid from Goose Girl who switches places with her princess, falls in love with Rumpelstiltskin - a faerie named Roderick.
I have to admit it took me some time to get used to Ottoline. Even though she was not treated fairly by any means by Princess Gertrude, I really didn’t like her attitude. She was really bitter, petty and rude in the beginning, but I guess this is supposed to make her character growth a bit more obvious.
But I did warm up to her eventually and I definitely enjoyed her interactions with Roderick. The romance was sweet and I loved how the author mixed elements from the original Rumpelstiltskin with completely new ideas. There were parts that seemed a bit rushed (it is a fairly short novella), but I never felt like there were missing pieces and the author added some unexpected twists and turns and I found myself curious about how this would play out. It’s a quick read that I finished in one sitting and which kept me engaged til the end.
This was a really fun fairytale mashup that I recommend if you - like me - love Rumpelstiltskin retellings and are always looking for new unique versions.
* Thank you to the author for letting me read an advanced copy of this book. I leave this review voluntarily and the expressed opinions are my own.
January 21, 2026
Falling for the Trickster
To Win a Dark Heart #1
By Lucy Tempest
Falling for the Trickster is a Rumpelstiltskin/Goose Girl mashup that focuses on the maid who tried to usurp her princess. In this retelling, the princess is awful, and no one can blame Ottoline for wanting a better life, considering Princess Gertrude's abuse.
When she is offered the chance to switch places and get the life Gertrude is assured of, Ottoline takes it. It will only cost her an unknown favor to Roderick. What could it truly cost if he can switch things up so easily?
Yeah, it's never a good choice to make a bargain without knowing the costs. But nothing is as Ottoline, Gertrude, and Roderick expected because the king of Orcage demands that the "princess" turn objects to gold. Her upcoming marriage to the prince is not enough to dispel the debts owed to Orcage.
Does anyone else see the problem?
With the assistance of Roderick again, for the price of a kiss, everything will be great. Not so, the king is not so easily satisfied, and Roderick's gold-turning abilities are limited. Everyone needs a reset, but nope, not happening. What follows is a sweet yet dangerous attempt to stop the king and get what both Ottoline and Roderick truly want.
I loved how various aspects of the Goose Girl and Rumpelstiltskin played out. There is a lovely interweaving that allows both tales to be fully present while offering something new and fresh. The villains get their day, and in this retelling, you will be rooting for them to succeed.
I was provided a complimentary copy with no expectations. All thoughts expressed are my own.
To Win a Dark Heart #1
By Lucy Tempest
Falling for the Trickster is a Rumpelstiltskin/Goose Girl mashup that focuses on the maid who tried to usurp her princess. In this retelling, the princess is awful, and no one can blame Ottoline for wanting a better life, considering Princess Gertrude's abuse.
When she is offered the chance to switch places and get the life Gertrude is assured of, Ottoline takes it. It will only cost her an unknown favor to Roderick. What could it truly cost if he can switch things up so easily?
Yeah, it's never a good choice to make a bargain without knowing the costs. But nothing is as Ottoline, Gertrude, and Roderick expected because the king of Orcage demands that the "princess" turn objects to gold. Her upcoming marriage to the prince is not enough to dispel the debts owed to Orcage.
Does anyone else see the problem?
With the assistance of Roderick again, for the price of a kiss, everything will be great. Not so, the king is not so easily satisfied, and Roderick's gold-turning abilities are limited. Everyone needs a reset, but nope, not happening. What follows is a sweet yet dangerous attempt to stop the king and get what both Ottoline and Roderick truly want.
I loved how various aspects of the Goose Girl and Rumpelstiltskin played out. There is a lovely interweaving that allows both tales to be fully present while offering something new and fresh. The villains get their day, and in this retelling, you will be rooting for them to succeed.
I was provided a complimentary copy with no expectations. All thoughts expressed are my own.
Review of advance copy received from Author
👑Review👑
Let me start off by saying that I am in love with Lucy Tempest’s world of Folkshore. The Folkshore books are ones that I like to revisit from time to time, with The Faerie Prince being my favorite. That being said, Falling for the Trickster was right up my alley. The second I found out about it, I was like, “What?! I’m in!”. I love that we got to see more of the fae side of Folkshore.
I loved the combination of The Goose Girl and Rumplestiltskin. Overall, the story felt very cohesive. I kept forgetting that they are two separate tales and not singular. It is almost like they were made for each other, kind of like the two main characters Ottoline and Roderick. They are so sweet. The story was fun and romantic. Yes, there is a villainous side to them but the story is full of lessons on trickery and how lies can make things worse. And of course, they aren’t the only villains in the story. The others were just awful! There is selfishness, insanity, and apathy. They make the main character’s actions completely understandable (I’m not condoning it, but I understand), but enough about villainy. The ending was perfect for the story.
Overall, I’m so happy for this story! It’s one that I am so happy to add to my collection. I hope to see more books that take place in Folkshore.
Thank you to Lucy Tempest for an ARC of Falling for the Trickster! All opinions are my own.
No-Spice Level: 1
Language: Clean
Faith Elements: None
Let me start off by saying that I am in love with Lucy Tempest’s world of Folkshore. The Folkshore books are ones that I like to revisit from time to time, with The Faerie Prince being my favorite. That being said, Falling for the Trickster was right up my alley. The second I found out about it, I was like, “What?! I’m in!”. I love that we got to see more of the fae side of Folkshore.
I loved the combination of The Goose Girl and Rumplestiltskin. Overall, the story felt very cohesive. I kept forgetting that they are two separate tales and not singular. It is almost like they were made for each other, kind of like the two main characters Ottoline and Roderick. They are so sweet. The story was fun and romantic. Yes, there is a villainous side to them but the story is full of lessons on trickery and how lies can make things worse. And of course, they aren’t the only villains in the story. The others were just awful! There is selfishness, insanity, and apathy. They make the main character’s actions completely understandable (I’m not condoning it, but I understand), but enough about villainy. The ending was perfect for the story.
Overall, I’m so happy for this story! It’s one that I am so happy to add to my collection. I hope to see more books that take place in Folkshore.
Thank you to Lucy Tempest for an ARC of Falling for the Trickster! All opinions are my own.
No-Spice Level: 1
Language: Clean
Faith Elements: None
Review of advance copy received from Author
Falling for the Trickster is a mixed retelling of The Goose girl and Rumpelstiltskin. An abused maid Ottoline makes a deal with a Fae named Roderick to switch places with her brutal princess and marry the prince. However, once they arrive in Orcage and meet the prince, it is nothing like the happily ever after that Ottoline imagined. The King demands that Ottoline pay off her country's debt by turning everything into gold. Ottoline and Roderick strike up several deals, but nothing seems to appease the greedy king.
Falling for the Trickster was a quick read filled with morally grey characters. Instantly, I did not like Ottoline. As soon as she was made princess, she was happy to treat Gertrude the way she had been treated. She was very headstrong, opinionated, and quickly took to the idea of being a spoiled princess. While she never actually forced Gertrude to do maid duties, it wasn't out of kindness but because Gertrude had no idea how to do anything.
Additionally, in the beginning, Roderick seemed to be no better as he offered his deal to Ottoline knowing it was not going to be her HEA; although later, you do learn his motive for using Ottoline was for his people not just himself.
Lucy Tempest did a great job creating the world and marrying the two fairy tales together.
Overall review: 3.5 stars, rounded up to 4 stars
Falling for the Trickster was a quick read filled with morally grey characters. Instantly, I did not like Ottoline. As soon as she was made princess, she was happy to treat Gertrude the way she had been treated. She was very headstrong, opinionated, and quickly took to the idea of being a spoiled princess. While she never actually forced Gertrude to do maid duties, it wasn't out of kindness but because Gertrude had no idea how to do anything.
Additionally, in the beginning, Roderick seemed to be no better as he offered his deal to Ottoline knowing it was not going to be her HEA; although later, you do learn his motive for using Ottoline was for his people not just himself.
Lucy Tempest did a great job creating the world and marrying the two fairy tales together.
Overall review: 3.5 stars, rounded up to 4 stars
Review of advance copy received from Author
This was a quick read, full of fairytale magic, peril, a taste of romance, and a twist on some well known stories.
I liked the unique take on Rumpelstiltskin, which also took on aspects of other stories, like The Goose Girl and King Midas. I enjoyed the character of Roderick, as he was so noble and caring, and just a bit mischievous. His character was the most fleshed out, with his background and history, descriptions of his physical features, his hopes and dreams for the future, and his abilities. I was quite endeared to him. My favorite character, however, was Ingwer, the forest cat. I wish he had been in more of the story because I was really intrigued by him. His interactions made me smile.
I actually felt like I wanted a little more of everything in this story. I wanted more descriptions of the lands, more backstory for Ottoline, more build up to the romance, more evidence of redemption, more time in Faerie, more Ingwer, more explanations of powers, and more depth to the characters.
Overall, I did enjoy it and I think those who like sweet and clean fairy tales would enjoy it too. I received this as an ARC from the author. All opinions in this review are my own and are given freely.
I liked the unique take on Rumpelstiltskin, which also took on aspects of other stories, like The Goose Girl and King Midas. I enjoyed the character of Roderick, as he was so noble and caring, and just a bit mischievous. His character was the most fleshed out, with his background and history, descriptions of his physical features, his hopes and dreams for the future, and his abilities. I was quite endeared to him. My favorite character, however, was Ingwer, the forest cat. I wish he had been in more of the story because I was really intrigued by him. His interactions made me smile.
I actually felt like I wanted a little more of everything in this story. I wanted more descriptions of the lands, more backstory for Ottoline, more build up to the romance, more evidence of redemption, more time in Faerie, more Ingwer, more explanations of powers, and more depth to the characters.
Overall, I did enjoy it and I think those who like sweet and clean fairy tales would enjoy it too. I received this as an ARC from the author. All opinions in this review are my own and are given freely.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
Ooh, what a delicious mashup of Goose Girl, Rumple and with elements of King Midas myth thrown in! Loved this 90-minute retelling from the get-go and what a lovely ending, swoon!
Have you ever wondered if the maid in Goose Girl had good reason to usurp the princess’ place?
Princess Gertrude treats Ottoline atrociously and when she’s pushed over the edge, a helpful fae appears with a bargain. Things do not go quite as planned, but a HEA is guaranteed, including for the villains.whever you think the true villains in his story are. ;)
I loved baron Pointyears aka Roderick and all the vile & wet blanket characters were truly & delightfully awful. If you are canonon fae and their tricksy bargainshaving to be fulfilled to the T, you might find it surprising bargains can be remade - you’ve been warned.
Recommended for lovers of mashup retellings, especially wicked twisty Rumple & Goose Girl ones. And Rumple’s tale has always meshed well with the Midas myth on account of gold being thecommon denominator, so there’s that, too.
Have you ever wondered if the maid in Goose Girl had good reason to usurp the princess’ place?
Princess Gertrude treats Ottoline atrociously and when she’s pushed over the edge, a helpful fae appears with a bargain. Things do not go quite as planned, but a HEA is guaranteed, including for the villains.whever you think the true villains in his story are. ;)
I loved baron Pointyears aka Roderick and all the vile & wet blanket characters were truly & delightfully awful. If you are canonon fae and their tricksy bargainshaving to be fulfilled to the T, you might find it surprising bargains can be remade - you’ve been warned.
Recommended for lovers of mashup retellings, especially wicked twisty Rumple & Goose Girl ones. And Rumple’s tale has always meshed well with the Midas myth on account of gold being thecommon denominator, so there’s that, too.
Review of advance copy received from Author
What a fun story! I loved the blend of fairytale inspirations and the charming characters. I flew through the story.
I loved Ottoline’s narration! She felt so real and I empathized with her from the start. She just wanted a safe place, a life without the fear of her mistress, the princess. I admired her courage, even as the choices she made seemed to become more dangerous. Ottoline found herself in increasingly frightening situations, and she felt the emotions of that, while still keeping her head.
Roderick was so interesting! I loved getting to see more of him as the story unfolded. He had his own strong sense of virtue and justice.The world created was so cool and I loved the magic of it. It was a complicated world that I still have questions about! I would love to return there. The inspiration of the Goose Girl and Rumpe
lstiltskin was such an interesting one, and I also loved the nod to King Midas! It was such an engaging story! This fairytale inspired story has only kisses.
I received an ARC.
I loved Ottoline’s narration! She felt so real and I empathized with her from the start. She just wanted a safe place, a life without the fear of her mistress, the princess. I admired her courage, even as the choices she made seemed to become more dangerous. Ottoline found herself in increasingly frightening situations, and she felt the emotions of that, while still keeping her head.
Roderick was so interesting! I loved getting to see more of him as the story unfolded. He had his own strong sense of virtue and justice.The world created was so cool and I loved the magic of it. It was a complicated world that I still have questions about! I would love to return there. The inspiration of the Goose Girl and Rumpe
lstiltskin was such an interesting one, and I also loved the nod to King Midas! It was such an engaging story! This fairytale inspired story has only kisses.
I received an ARC.
January 20, 2026
Excellent reimagining!
4.5 stars! Ottoline is the personal maid to Princess Gertrude, and goodness is the princess a spoiled brat. On their journey to meet her betrothed Ottoline is given the opportunity to switch lives with the princess, and the princess will not be able to stop it. Roderick may not tell Ottoline why he wants to assist her, but she takes the opportunity that the shadowy man presents to her. Only problem is, "her" now future father in law is a greedy terrible man and thinks the princess has a hidden ability and she will perform or else.
The author did such a fantastic job with the reimagining of these stories. I loved that Ottoline wasn't afraid to speak her mind but also realized what was on the line. I appreciated that she was willing to sacrifice, but also not to hee own death, which some fmc's don't get. I am absolutely going to check out the rest of this authors work as I loved her style.
“You’re very mouthy for a maid, you know that?” “There are probably scars in the middle of my tongue from how often I’ve had to bite it.”
4.5 stars! Ottoline is the personal maid to Princess Gertrude, and goodness is the princess a spoiled brat. On their journey to meet her betrothed Ottoline is given the opportunity to switch lives with the princess, and the princess will not be able to stop it. Roderick may not tell Ottoline why he wants to assist her, but she takes the opportunity that the shadowy man presents to her. Only problem is, "her" now future father in law is a greedy terrible man and thinks the princess has a hidden ability and she will perform or else.
The author did such a fantastic job with the reimagining of these stories. I loved that Ottoline wasn't afraid to speak her mind but also realized what was on the line. I appreciated that she was willing to sacrifice, but also not to hee own death, which some fmc's don't get. I am absolutely going to check out the rest of this authors work as I loved her style.
“You’re very mouthy for a maid, you know that?” “There are probably scars in the middle of my tongue from how often I’ve had to bite it.”
Review of advance copy received from Author
The story of Rumpelstiltskin is taken and I just loved the way it was retold. It left me surprised at times and it was so much fun to read! You can't help but enjoy each twist that comes. Ottoline becomes the Princess and the Princess becomes the maid. A snap of fingers🤌, an action that used to make Ottoline rushing to do whatever demanded of her, changes that completely by changing her life. This one change had me, as it introduced us to Roderick. You will be wondering at times at the unexpected twists & turns given to us. The magic deals, the greed for gold, the characters in this story made this story an enjoyable & fun read! If you love fairytale retellings, you will enjoy this take on Rumpelstiltskin......and if you are like me, you just might see a few more stories or Fairytales in this delightful story!
I received an advance Reader's Copy of the book.
This opinion is solely mine in this review.
I received an advance Reader's Copy of the book.
This opinion is solely mine in this review.
January 7, 2026
Be prepared for an adventure that sends you on many twists and turns. Ottoline is the maid to princess Gertrude, a snooty girl who doesn’t understand the true meaning of work or responsibility. When Roderick appears with an offer to magically make them trade rolls before they reach the kings castle Ottoline eagerly agrees. Only to have a greedy tyrannical father in law to be, prepared to use her and abuse her far worse than Gertrude treated her.
Honestly I know I probably wasn’t supposed to feel sympathy towards Gertrude but I did.
At first I really didn’t like Ottoline but as the story progressed she kind of grew on me!
As for Roderick he was my favorite character in the book! Who doesn’t love a cocky fae lord who’s using his powers to try and aid his own causes!?!
But I digress if you’re really curious about the book I recommend you read it!
Honestly I know I probably wasn’t supposed to feel sympathy towards Gertrude but I did.
At first I really didn’t like Ottoline but as the story progressed she kind of grew on me!
As for Roderick he was my favorite character in the book! Who doesn’t love a cocky fae lord who’s using his powers to try and aid his own causes!?!
But I digress if you’re really curious about the book I recommend you read it!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Falling for the Trickster was a sweet, clean, and enjoyable fairy tale. Ottoline was a servant to Queen Gertrude. Due to the cruelty she was being subjected to by the queen, she wondered if this was all she would get in life, but she definitely knew she wanted more. Then comes Roderick who also wanted more in life, so a pact was made between the two. Throughout the pages, many of the characters learn that sometimes the grass isn't always greener on the other side and also learned lessons that cruelty has consequences. In the end, there are happily ever after's for those who deserved it, and tragic consequences for those who would not change from their bad ways. This had touches of King Midas, Goose Girl, and Rumpelstiltskin.
I received this as an ARC, but the opinions are my own. I read this in January and it was a light, fun story to read during a cold winter storm.
I received this as an ARC, but the opinions are my own. I read this in January and it was a light, fun story to read during a cold winter storm.
January 25, 2026
So, I love fairy-tale retellings. I've read a lot of them. And, obviously, I've read mash-ups. I've even read ones where the 'villain' from the original gets a HEA. But, combining two villains from two different stories and giving them a HEA, together? That's a new one to me. And, honestly, I wasn't sure how much I'd like it. I like to actually LIKE the main characters and wasn't sure how much that would be possible with that set-up.
Anyway, you'll be glad to know the author pulls that off. Ottoline and Roderick aren't horrible people. They're desperate, and that leads to them doing some questionable things that they come to realize may not have been the best way to handle things.
This is a clean read and the editing is good. I received an ARC from the author. I was not required to write a review but chose to do so and the opinions stated are my own.
Anyway, you'll be glad to know the author pulls that off. Ottoline and Roderick aren't horrible people. They're desperate, and that leads to them doing some questionable things that they come to realize may not have been the best way to handle things.
This is a clean read and the editing is good. I received an ARC from the author. I was not required to write a review but chose to do so and the opinions stated are my own.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Falling for the Trickster by Lucy Tempest
One kiss. One favor. One step closer to ruin...
A retelling combining the Goose Girl with Rumpelstiltskin with a twist of the villains being the heros! I've been reading some longer books lately so this one was a lovely little story I read in just a couple sittings. Quite a whirlwind of a tale, plenty of action happening in every scene. My only wish would be that I would have liked it to be longer! Splendid start to this series. Would definitely recommend.
Standalone in To Win a Dark Heart series
Genre: Fairytale retelling (clean)
Quote: “You’re here so you can owe me a great favor.”
Favorite character: Roderick (main male character)
4.5⭐
ARC (will be published Jan 16, all opinions are my own)
One kiss. One favor. One step closer to ruin...
A retelling combining the Goose Girl with Rumpelstiltskin with a twist of the villains being the heros! I've been reading some longer books lately so this one was a lovely little story I read in just a couple sittings. Quite a whirlwind of a tale, plenty of action happening in every scene. My only wish would be that I would have liked it to be longer! Splendid start to this series. Would definitely recommend.
Standalone in To Win a Dark Heart series
Genre: Fairytale retelling (clean)
Quote: “You’re here so you can owe me a great favor.”
Favorite character: Roderick (main male character)
4.5⭐
ARC (will be published Jan 16, all opinions are my own)
Review of advance copy received from Author
A cute fairy tale retelling where the supposed wicked maid saves the princess from a brutal king and the trickster fairy wants justice for his kind and thus helps the maid to turn things into gold.
The worldbuilding is interesting. The villainous king is deserving of his fate. The prince and princess are made for each other.
I like the main characters. And though their friendship felt authentic, their romance felt sudden and rushed from nowhere. Some inner dialogue earlier on about how she felt about him and not just her distress at what she was experiencing might have helped on the romance front.
I liked the cat.
A quick, fun read.
*I received an ARC from the author and this is my honest opinion.
The worldbuilding is interesting. The villainous king is deserving of his fate. The prince and princess are made for each other.
I like the main characters. And though their friendship felt authentic, their romance felt sudden and rushed from nowhere. Some inner dialogue earlier on about how she felt about him and not just her distress at what she was experiencing might have helped on the romance front.
I liked the cat.
A quick, fun read.
*I received an ARC from the author and this is my honest opinion.
February 17, 2026
This story had an interesting concept, but I don't think it was carried out very well. I found both of the main characters to be kind of annoying. I didn't like that the heroine's entire goal in the story seemed focused on revenge. That is not something I can get behind.
Also, I was led to believe that this would be a romance. However, there was no chemistry between the hero and heroine. At the end, they decide to enter into a committed relationship, but the word "love" was NEVER mentioned! Come on. You cannot have a romance without love.
The author did good job combining the stories of Rumpelstiltskin and The Goose Girl but the overall execution could have been better.
Thanks to the author for providing me with an ARC. All opinions expressed in this review are my own.
Also, I was led to believe that this would be a romance. However, there was no chemistry between the hero and heroine. At the end, they decide to enter into a committed relationship, but the word "love" was NEVER mentioned! Come on. You cannot have a romance without love.
The author did good job combining the stories of Rumpelstiltskin and The Goose Girl but the overall execution could have been better.
Thanks to the author for providing me with an ARC. All opinions expressed in this review are my own.
Review of advance copy received from Author
'Falling For the Trickster' is a fantastic fairytale retelling, and you will love every second of it. The novel invites us into a vibrant world, with intriguing characters and fantastical world building. The romance and fast paced adventure will draw you in and leave your heart pounding.
The only minor quibble I have is that the main character never realised that being terrible to someone because they were terrible to you is wrong, and does not solve anything.
I loved it, and if you like fantasy, you will too.
I also recommend you check out the others in this series - nearly all are fantastic and very similar.
The only minor quibble I have is that the main character never realised that being terrible to someone because they were terrible to you is wrong, and does not solve anything.
I loved it, and if you like fantasy, you will too.
I also recommend you check out the others in this series - nearly all are fantastic and very similar.
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