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Towerwood
Illness.
Captivity.
A fight for survival...
Seventeen-year-old Zel doesn’t know what to do. Her mum is seriously ill, and the doctors have no answers. When Zel’s best friend, Finn, finds an old Wiccan text with a miraculous solution, it seems too good to be true… but Zel’s willing to try anything, even breaking into the garden of the formidable Judge Gothel.
But the unthinkable happens, and everything goes wrong.
Captivity.
A fight for survival...
Seventeen-year-old Zel doesn’t know what to do. Her mum is seriously ill, and the doctors have no answers. When Zel’s best friend, Finn, finds an old Wiccan text with a miraculous solution, it seems too good to be true… but Zel’s willing to try anything, even breaking into the garden of the formidable Judge Gothel.
But the unthinkable happens, and everything goes wrong.
Betrayed by those she loved most, Zel must fight for her own survival. Imprisoned in the Towerwood Facility for Troubled Youth, she is kept in isolation under the watchful eye of her guard, Prince. He seems to be her only way to freedom—and she is determined to escape the clutches of Gothel and free herself from her desperate fate.
This is not the Rapunzel you grew up with…
Readers, please note that Towerwood is a novella of 30,000+ words. It is a stand-alone, but it is part of the Hellish Fairytale Universe. Topics you might find upsetting: captivity, physical harm, and illness. Mentions of fertility issues and suicide.
Kindle Edition
Published February 1, 2023
2 people are currently reading
77 people want to read
About the author
Kate Callaghan
14 books329 followersKate Callaghan is an Irish author who writes adult fantasy, romantic suspense, and feel-good Christmas romance. She’s the creator of the Hellish Fairytale series, blending dark magic and intrigue, as well as festive romcoms like The Naughty or Nice Clause. Whether she’s spinning tales of dangerous love or cozy holiday magic, you’ll find her in a Dublin café with an iced coffee, plotting her next twist.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 41 reviews
February 1, 2023
Happy publication day!
This was a very interesting Rapunzel retelling that had the right potential to become even more enticing if it was a little longer.
I had fun reading it, nonetheless, and I'm so very grateful to KC for this free ARC!
(っ◔◡◔)っ ♥ this review is teen penguin approved! ♥
This was a very interesting Rapunzel retelling that had the right potential to become even more enticing if it was a little longer.
I had fun reading it, nonetheless, and I'm so very grateful to KC for this free ARC!
(っ◔◡◔)っ ♥ this review is teen penguin approved! ♥
January 14, 2023
Du you like fairy tales?
I love them and I am not ashamed to say that I'm still watching them today 🥰
These two short novellas are a little on the dark side of the original stories.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Towerwood is a gripping and dramatic version of Rapunzel or in this case Zel. Of course it's nothing like the original story. This is more like a thriller version of the fairy tale ✨
I love it and I hope we will get a sequel of this novella.
✨
I really enjoyed this short but fascinating story.
I hope Kate writes a sequel for
Towerwood and the "prince" 😉 What can I say 🤷🏻♀️ I have already seen romance blossom in my romantic mind 😍 🤣
I love them and I am not ashamed to say that I'm still watching them today 🥰
These two short novellas are a little on the dark side of the original stories.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Towerwood is a gripping and dramatic version of Rapunzel or in this case Zel. Of course it's nothing like the original story. This is more like a thriller version of the fairy tale ✨
I love it and I hope we will get a sequel of this novella.
✨
I really enjoyed this short but fascinating story.
I hope Kate writes a sequel for
Towerwood and the "prince" 😉 What can I say 🤷🏻♀️ I have already seen romance blossom in my romantic mind 😍 🤣
October 10, 2020
2.5 stars
This contemporary Rapunzel retelling didn't really work for me. It was a lot to accomplish in a short story but I wasn't a fan of the characters or the story progression/writing style.
This contemporary Rapunzel retelling didn't really work for me. It was a lot to accomplish in a short story but I wasn't a fan of the characters or the story progression/writing style.
October 17, 2019
I was drawn to this book because I love retellings, the blurb intrigued me and the cover was just so gorgeous. This short story was a modern retelling of the classic tale of Rapunzel. A different approach to the classic fairytale of Rapunzel this novella was definitely interesting. The characters were relatable and there was so much more depth to the plot than I was expecting. I love a story where the girl doesn’t need a man to save her. A lovely novella I highly recommend!
April 13, 2020
"Towerwood" is an enchanting quick-read for those who value friendship, love, life & freedom, and enjoy fairytales!
January 19, 2023
Three and a half
This is a reimagining of the Repunzel story but with a contemporary twist. Zel our heroine is a young woman desperate to save her mother and with a little help and a lot to of encouragement from her friend actually finds a way to do it. Of course every fairytale has a dark side and here Zel realises the cost is her freedom !
I really liked Zel and honestly wish the book had been longer as I would have liked to spend more time with her. It’s a coming of age tale in many ways as Zel frees herself in more ways than one and who needs a Prince to ride to the rescue ? Driven by love Zel faces hardship and downright cruelty. There is a lack of real explanation for certain things perhaps due to the brevity of the story but with such a likeable protagonist I would still recommend this if you enjoy YA fantasy.
This voluntary take is of an advanced copy and my thoughts and comments are honest and I believe fair
This is a reimagining of the Repunzel story but with a contemporary twist. Zel our heroine is a young woman desperate to save her mother and with a little help and a lot to of encouragement from her friend actually finds a way to do it. Of course every fairytale has a dark side and here Zel realises the cost is her freedom !
I really liked Zel and honestly wish the book had been longer as I would have liked to spend more time with her. It’s a coming of age tale in many ways as Zel frees herself in more ways than one and who needs a Prince to ride to the rescue ? Driven by love Zel faces hardship and downright cruelty. There is a lack of real explanation for certain things perhaps due to the brevity of the story but with such a likeable protagonist I would still recommend this if you enjoy YA fantasy.
This voluntary take is of an advanced copy and my thoughts and comments are honest and I believe fair
January 22, 2023
This is a modern day retelling of Rapunzel. Zel's mother is sick and not getting better. Zel's best friend, Finn, finds a potion in an old book that calls for a rare flower that has healing power. Desperate, Zel steals the flower from her neighbor, Judge Gothel. Bus she's caught, and now she finds herself at Towerwood, a mysterious correctional facility that no one ever leaves...
I really enjoyed this novelette. I think it's tough to get really invested in character in short stories, but I think the author did a great job. I really rooted for Zel and Finn.
Spoilers below:
I really love that the girls saved themselves. And that Zel did not go back to her family once she was free. They never came for her, but Finn did. So I love that they decided to go off on their own journey and try to become witches. A very well done ending for this story 👍👍
I really enjoyed this novelette. I think it's tough to get really invested in character in short stories, but I think the author did a great job. I really rooted for Zel and Finn.
Spoilers below:
I really love that the girls saved themselves. And that Zel did not go back to her family once she was free. They never came for her, but Finn did. So I love that they decided to go off on their own journey and try to become witches. A very well done ending for this story 👍👍
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 6, 2023
Seventeen year old Zel lives in a state on constant worry. Her mother is in a coma and the doctors can’t figure out what caused it. To make matters more serious, Zel’s mother is pregnant with twins. Zel is trying to carry on with her studies, visiting her mum every morning before school. When Zel’s best friend Finn finds an old spell book in the school library, Zel is desperate and will try anything to save her mum and siblings’ lives. Zel’s actions have dire consequences as her evil neighbour Judge Gothel makes sure that she must suffer. Locked away in a prison tower with only her prison guard to talk to, Zel is determined that Gothel won’t break her.
At just over 30,000 words, Callahan has managed to write a gripping, dark reimagination of a favourite fairy tale, Rapunzel. Zel is a superb character- she’s fierce even when faced with imprisonment. The way she stands up to Gothel is perfection. I loved her friendship with Finn and how fiercely loyal they are to one another. Zel’s prison guard is an interesting figure- I won’t give too much away but everyone has a connection to the evil, power-hungry tyrant Judge Gothel. Kate has created the perfect villain with Gothel- he’s just one twisted, vile person.
Loved the ending- Kate you played a blinder! The only issue I have with the story is that it’s not any longer! I would happily read an entire novel about Zel and what happens next for her.
Unbreakable friendships, a hint of magic and an evil tyrant- what more could you ask for?!
Thanks to Kate for the arc. Towerwood is out on February 8th. 4 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
At just over 30,000 words, Callahan has managed to write a gripping, dark reimagination of a favourite fairy tale, Rapunzel. Zel is a superb character- she’s fierce even when faced with imprisonment. The way she stands up to Gothel is perfection. I loved her friendship with Finn and how fiercely loyal they are to one another. Zel’s prison guard is an interesting figure- I won’t give too much away but everyone has a connection to the evil, power-hungry tyrant Judge Gothel. Kate has created the perfect villain with Gothel- he’s just one twisted, vile person.
Loved the ending- Kate you played a blinder! The only issue I have with the story is that it’s not any longer! I would happily read an entire novel about Zel and what happens next for her.
Unbreakable friendships, a hint of magic and an evil tyrant- what more could you ask for?!
Thanks to Kate for the arc. Towerwood is out on February 8th. 4 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
May 24, 2020
A lovely modern retelling of the classic Rapunzel story .
January 22, 2023
Do you like the story of Rapunzel but want something a little darker? Is Disney's "Tangled" too bright and happy for you? If so, then you should pick up a copy Towerwood by Kate Callaghan when it comes out on February 8th.
Summary:
Zel Forrester loves animals. She's incredibly focused on school so that she can get into the zoology program she's been eying. However, there's something else occupying her time. Her mother. Each day before school, Zel goes to the hospital to visit her mother who has been in a coma for the last few months after collapsing from an unknown illness. Finn Zhang, Zel's best friend, can't stand seeing her friend so upset and hates that the doctors have no idea what caused Zel's mom to collapse. So, she decides to take matters into her own hands and do some research in their school's library where a possible solution presents itself in a forgotten, dusty book. A Wiccan spell book to be exact. There's just one critical problem. One of the ingredients needed for the lifesaving potion is a super rare plant, which just happens to grow in Zel's neighbor's garden... who is Judge Arnold Gothel, the nastiest man in town and overseer of the infamous Towerwood Correctional Facility For Troubled and Dangerous Youths. Zel decides to risk everything in order to save her mom, but in the end, she ends up in the hands of Gothel and is sentenced to imprisonment in Towerwood. There, she's assigned a personal watch guard, Nicholas Prince, who seems to be the only person in that facility who still has a soul. As time passes, Zel realizes that Prince may be the key to her freedom. However, everything changes in one night when Zel is looking out the window and sees a shadow moving around in the woods that surround Towerwood.
Review:
I was hooked from the very beginning. The stakes are so high in Towerwood that you just have to keep reading in order to know what happens. The fact that it's also a darker retelling of the classic Rapunzel story also made me keep reading; darker meaning that it's not happy and fluffy, and that there's a bit of violence.
I enjoyed that in this retelling Gothel is a man. Usually Gothel is an old woman who has trapped Rapunzel in her tower. I liked that Kate Callaghan took the story in a different direction by making Gothel a man and by making the "tower" a correctional facility. I also really liked that Prince doesn't live up to his name in the way you'd think he would. I loved that you could see from the very moment he was introduced that something was different about him, but that's all I'll say about him.
The plot of Towerwood flowed nicely. I never felt like I was missing things or that the plot points weren't lining up. I was able to follow the story easily which makes Towerwood a great read. I will say though that the ending both broke my heart and made me happy. It's extremely bittersweet, but at least Zel ends up where she's supposed to be. It's stories like these that makes me want nothing but the best for the characters because they've all been through so much and deserve the happiness they're looking for.
Towerwood is another great book from Kate Callaghan. I will forever be a fan of her writing. Thank you so much for this arc :)
Summary:
Zel Forrester loves animals. She's incredibly focused on school so that she can get into the zoology program she's been eying. However, there's something else occupying her time. Her mother. Each day before school, Zel goes to the hospital to visit her mother who has been in a coma for the last few months after collapsing from an unknown illness. Finn Zhang, Zel's best friend, can't stand seeing her friend so upset and hates that the doctors have no idea what caused Zel's mom to collapse. So, she decides to take matters into her own hands and do some research in their school's library where a possible solution presents itself in a forgotten, dusty book. A Wiccan spell book to be exact. There's just one critical problem. One of the ingredients needed for the lifesaving potion is a super rare plant, which just happens to grow in Zel's neighbor's garden... who is Judge Arnold Gothel, the nastiest man in town and overseer of the infamous Towerwood Correctional Facility For Troubled and Dangerous Youths. Zel decides to risk everything in order to save her mom, but in the end, she ends up in the hands of Gothel and is sentenced to imprisonment in Towerwood. There, she's assigned a personal watch guard, Nicholas Prince, who seems to be the only person in that facility who still has a soul. As time passes, Zel realizes that Prince may be the key to her freedom. However, everything changes in one night when Zel is looking out the window and sees a shadow moving around in the woods that surround Towerwood.
Review:
I was hooked from the very beginning. The stakes are so high in Towerwood that you just have to keep reading in order to know what happens. The fact that it's also a darker retelling of the classic Rapunzel story also made me keep reading; darker meaning that it's not happy and fluffy, and that there's a bit of violence.
I enjoyed that in this retelling Gothel is a man. Usually Gothel is an old woman who has trapped Rapunzel in her tower. I liked that Kate Callaghan took the story in a different direction by making Gothel a man and by making the "tower" a correctional facility. I also really liked that Prince doesn't live up to his name in the way you'd think he would. I loved that you could see from the very moment he was introduced that something was different about him, but that's all I'll say about him.
The plot of Towerwood flowed nicely. I never felt like I was missing things or that the plot points weren't lining up. I was able to follow the story easily which makes Towerwood a great read. I will say though that the ending both broke my heart and made me happy. It's extremely bittersweet, but at least Zel ends up where she's supposed to be. It's stories like these that makes me want nothing but the best for the characters because they've all been through so much and deserve the happiness they're looking for.
Towerwood is another great book from Kate Callaghan. I will forever be a fan of her writing. Thank you so much for this arc :)
October 21, 2025
Towerwood is a stand-alone novella set in the Hellish Fairytale Universe. A universe that I have loved since I first read Crowned A Trailer by Kate Callaghan.
I've been very much looking forward to reading Towerwood, and did have access to an ARC of the ebook, but at the time, I decided to wait to purchase the book when it was released - Life was busy at the time and I knew I couldn't guarantee finding the time to read and review the book fairly.
I knew I would enjoy this book. I love Rapunzel, I love fairytale retellings, and I'm a fan of Kate Callaghan's writing, but I didn't know how much I would love it.
We spend the majority of the book with Zel only interacting with her prison guard, Prince, and it's a great story watching their relationship blossom and learning more about Prince.
Now that I've finished the book though, I'm ready to put Prince in the rearview mirror and I want more of Zel and Finn's story. I'm obsessed with them. I especially want to know about Finns background and story - what happened to her after Zel was taken away. Do I also want Zel and Finn to fall in love and be my new favourite couple?? ABSOLUTELY!! Their friendship is the kind of friendship everyone deserves, but I can't help but hope there's more there for them. Sadly though, as this is a stand-alone novella, I'll probably never know. Thank you Kate Callaghan for creating yet another character for me to love and wonder about. 😅
I've been very much looking forward to reading Towerwood, and did have access to an ARC of the ebook, but at the time, I decided to wait to purchase the book when it was released - Life was busy at the time and I knew I couldn't guarantee finding the time to read and review the book fairly.
I knew I would enjoy this book. I love Rapunzel, I love fairytale retellings, and I'm a fan of Kate Callaghan's writing, but I didn't know how much I would love it.
We spend the majority of the book with Zel only interacting with her prison guard, Prince, and it's a great story watching their relationship blossom and learning more about Prince.
Now that I've finished the book though, I'm ready to put Prince in the rearview mirror and I want more of Zel and Finn's story. I'm obsessed with them. I especially want to know about Finns background and story - what happened to her after Zel was taken away. Do I also want Zel and Finn to fall in love and be my new favourite couple?? ABSOLUTELY!! Their friendship is the kind of friendship everyone deserves, but I can't help but hope there's more there for them. Sadly though, as this is a stand-alone novella, I'll probably never know. Thank you Kate Callaghan for creating yet another character for me to love and wonder about. 😅
January 30, 2023
I normally love a fairy tale retelling and one of Rapunzel seemed intriguing but this was a miss for me. I think I didn't enjoy the character of Zel enough to care about her tbh. I actually really hated her character and she annoyed me far too much. I didn't like Zel's parents and the fathers choice to choice his wife / unborn twins over Zel (which gave me sleeping beauty vibes) and did not fit the original narrative of how Rapunzel goes. The portrayal of Gothel for me was boring - I didn't care too much for it being a male version but honestly he was a boring villain.
I didn't enjoy the fantasy elements of witches and potions in the modern world as it didn't fit for me cause it could have easily just been classified as herbal medicine. Also after studying the legal system and knowing Zel's dad is a lawyer none of this is believable as you cannot be locked up in prison without due processing and she was in there for like two years. Also how does a judge have so much power? Like come on it was a bit much.
I didn't particularly enjoy the writing in this book either which surprised me as I loved the naughty or nice clause. Maybe this book was too short and it was too short to try and fit in narrative and character growth which was very much needed.
I didn't enjoy the fantasy elements of witches and potions in the modern world as it didn't fit for me cause it could have easily just been classified as herbal medicine. Also after studying the legal system and knowing Zel's dad is a lawyer none of this is believable as you cannot be locked up in prison without due processing and she was in there for like two years. Also how does a judge have so much power? Like come on it was a bit much.
I didn't particularly enjoy the writing in this book either which surprised me as I loved the naughty or nice clause. Maybe this book was too short and it was too short to try and fit in narrative and character growth which was very much needed.
February 4, 2023
This is a dark retelling of Rapunzel that is told in third person POV. It was well written and leaves you with a happy for now ending and a hint of more to come, which I need! I really hope that we get more so I can find out what happens when Zel and Finn find their new home.
I loved that Zel took a chance to save her mother, even if it cost her the freedom she loved. I loved how, even in isolation, she was able to form a bond with Prince and remind him of who he was and what he deserved. I loved that she didn’t let Judge Gothel break her.
This is the first time I have read anything by Kate, but it won’t be the last time. I’m unsullied not a fan of a story told in third person POV, because I don’t feel like I connect with the characters as much as I do first person POV. Especially when they have a lot of internal dialogue and speak in first person POV then then go back to third person. Although, I’m so excited to see where she takes this story and what adventures await Zel and Finn next.
I received an advanced reader’s copy from BookFunnel and this review is my own words and opinions.
I loved that Zel took a chance to save her mother, even if it cost her the freedom she loved. I loved how, even in isolation, she was able to form a bond with Prince and remind him of who he was and what he deserved. I loved that she didn’t let Judge Gothel break her.
This is the first time I have read anything by Kate, but it won’t be the last time. I’m unsullied not a fan of a story told in third person POV, because I don’t feel like I connect with the characters as much as I do first person POV. Especially when they have a lot of internal dialogue and speak in first person POV then then go back to third person. Although, I’m so excited to see where she takes this story and what adventures await Zel and Finn next.
I received an advanced reader’s copy from BookFunnel and this review is my own words and opinions.
February 14, 2023
Towerwood by Kate Callaghan
I received a review copy for free thanks to the author and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Blurb
Illness.
Captivity.
A fight for survival...
Seventeen-year-old Zel doesn’t know what to do. Her mum is seriously ill, and the doctors have no answers. When Zel’s best friend, Finn, finds an old Wiccan text with a miraculous solution, it seems too good to be true… but Zel’s willing to try anything, even breaking into the garden of the formidable Judge Gothel.
But the unthinkable happens, and everything goes wrong.
Betrayed by those she loved most, Zel must fight for her own survival. Imprisoned in the Towerwood Facility for Troubled Youth, she is kept in isolation under the watchful eye of her guard, Prince. He seems to be her only way to freedom—and she is determined to escape the clutches of Gothel and free herself from her desperate fate.
This is not the Rapunzel you grew up with…
My Opinion
This is an interesting retelling of Rapunzel. A very quick read - I completed this in just over an hour. For a short story, there was a lot of content and for me it worked well.
Rating 4/5
I received a review copy for free thanks to the author and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Blurb
Illness.
Captivity.
A fight for survival...
Seventeen-year-old Zel doesn’t know what to do. Her mum is seriously ill, and the doctors have no answers. When Zel’s best friend, Finn, finds an old Wiccan text with a miraculous solution, it seems too good to be true… but Zel’s willing to try anything, even breaking into the garden of the formidable Judge Gothel.
But the unthinkable happens, and everything goes wrong.
Betrayed by those she loved most, Zel must fight for her own survival. Imprisoned in the Towerwood Facility for Troubled Youth, she is kept in isolation under the watchful eye of her guard, Prince. He seems to be her only way to freedom—and she is determined to escape the clutches of Gothel and free herself from her desperate fate.
This is not the Rapunzel you grew up with…
My Opinion
This is an interesting retelling of Rapunzel. A very quick read - I completed this in just over an hour. For a short story, there was a lot of content and for me it worked well.
Rating 4/5
January 27, 2023
Enthralling story!
- I would like to thank the author for the eARC -
Zel wants one thing above all else: for her mother to finally wake up. The doctors don't know how to save her, and the only solution seems to lie in an old Wiccan text. But to test this remedy, Zel needs to break into the garden of Judge Gothel. Just when she's on the break of saving her mother, everything goes wrong. Betrayed by her loved ones, Zel is imprisonned in Towerwood, watched carefully by Prince, her guard. Now, all Zel wants to do is break out of this hell.
I looooved every second of this story. It was short, and fast-paced, but it was very well-balanced, which made it easy to relate to the characters and follow the story. It's a very interesting retelling, the author really made the story hers and I loved her version. Zel is great, I really liked her resilience and devotion to the ones she loves, even if it's not always reciprocated. The story in itself was quite intriguing, full of action, twists and turns and magic. I loved Zel and Finn's friendship, it was really strong and true. Prince was also a very interesting character, although I would have liked to know a bit more about him and how he came to be in this place. I was hooked from start to finish and at the end, I really wanted to stay in this world with the characters. I needed MORE! I'm excited to discover other stories in this amazing universe.
I recommend if you like fairytale retellings!
"Hate is a powerful motivator when you run out of hope."
TW: death, hospitals, disease, violence, mutilation, prison, suicidal thoughts, abuse, assault
- I would like to thank the author for the eARC -
Zel wants one thing above all else: for her mother to finally wake up. The doctors don't know how to save her, and the only solution seems to lie in an old Wiccan text. But to test this remedy, Zel needs to break into the garden of Judge Gothel. Just when she's on the break of saving her mother, everything goes wrong. Betrayed by her loved ones, Zel is imprisonned in Towerwood, watched carefully by Prince, her guard. Now, all Zel wants to do is break out of this hell.
I looooved every second of this story. It was short, and fast-paced, but it was very well-balanced, which made it easy to relate to the characters and follow the story. It's a very interesting retelling, the author really made the story hers and I loved her version. Zel is great, I really liked her resilience and devotion to the ones she loves, even if it's not always reciprocated. The story in itself was quite intriguing, full of action, twists and turns and magic. I loved Zel and Finn's friendship, it was really strong and true. Prince was also a very interesting character, although I would have liked to know a bit more about him and how he came to be in this place. I was hooked from start to finish and at the end, I really wanted to stay in this world with the characters. I needed MORE! I'm excited to discover other stories in this amazing universe.
I recommend if you like fairytale retellings!
"Hate is a powerful motivator when you run out of hope."
TW: death, hospitals, disease, violence, mutilation, prison, suicidal thoughts, abuse, assault
January 29, 2023
I received this free eARC novel from the author. This is my honest review.
I so wish there was more to this story! Zel was treated like crap by so many people. She was trying to save her mother and she was treated like vermin by the end of this story. I especially wish she would have made different choices at the end because her family needed to feel responsible for what they did. Instead, Zel was a better person than I am and decided not to punish them. Even after all those years...I don't know how she is still an amazing person after what she went through.
Also? I wish there was a better ending with her and Prince. I'm definitely a romantic at heart, so that ending left me feeling hollow a bit haha.
I'm glad I read this very unique version of this fairytale and I'm looking forward to more by this author!
I so wish there was more to this story! Zel was treated like crap by so many people. She was trying to save her mother and she was treated like vermin by the end of this story. I especially wish she would have made different choices at the end because her family needed to feel responsible for what they did. Instead, Zel was a better person than I am and decided not to punish them. Even after all those years...I don't know how she is still an amazing person after what she went through.
Also? I wish there was a better ending with her and Prince. I'm definitely a romantic at heart, so that ending left me feeling hollow a bit haha.
I'm glad I read this very unique version of this fairytale and I'm looking forward to more by this author!
February 1, 2023
I feel so honored to have been offered with the ARC for this epic retelling.
I have always been a fan of retellings, it opens up all the posibilities with the characters and the plot. What I love about towerwood is that it offers more thrill and it captivates me. I love the authors writing style.
I was not expecting this novella to be this good. At first I was wary of Prince, but as the story progress, he made me realize he was there to help her. And the 18th birthday gift! It made me cry.
Finn is the type of friend everyone deserves, a ride or die type of persone in one's life.
I was a bit disappointed with Zel's parents though. I mean, huh?
As for Gothel, I really wished I could morph into the book and strangle that character.
I hope you would write a prequel for this novella, specifically where Zel would meet Prince once more.
I have always been a fan of retellings, it opens up all the posibilities with the characters and the plot. What I love about towerwood is that it offers more thrill and it captivates me. I love the authors writing style.
I was not expecting this novella to be this good. At first I was wary of Prince, but as the story progress, he made me realize he was there to help her. And the 18th birthday gift! It made me cry.
Finn is the type of friend everyone deserves, a ride or die type of persone in one's life.
I was a bit disappointed with Zel's parents though. I mean, huh?
As for Gothel, I really wished I could morph into the book and strangle that character.
I hope you would write a prequel for this novella, specifically where Zel would meet Prince once more.
February 7, 2023
I'll admit, I felt like an idiot when about halfway through I felt like this was a Rapunzel retelling and then looked it up and was right. It was pretty obvious after I realized. 🤦♀️
Anyways, this was a relatively quick read, but I felt like this could have been a longer story. More details could have been fleshed out and I feel like with more details we could have more of a connection with the characters. While I was reading, I honestly thought this was going to be a prequel to another book, but saw that it was a standalone in a universe by the author.
One thing I definitely liked about this retelling? Finn is a woman and Zel's best friend. I love that. I also loved Zel's spirit. Did not like her family. At all. While I enjoyed this book, it's definitely geared more toward a young audience.
Anyways, this was a relatively quick read, but I felt like this could have been a longer story. More details could have been fleshed out and I feel like with more details we could have more of a connection with the characters. While I was reading, I honestly thought this was going to be a prequel to another book, but saw that it was a standalone in a universe by the author.
One thing I definitely liked about this retelling? Finn is a woman and Zel's best friend. I love that. I also loved Zel's spirit. Did not like her family. At all. While I enjoyed this book, it's definitely geared more toward a young audience.
January 21, 2023
4.5⭐️ I loved this book. It was a modern day darker young adult retelling of Rapunzel. It was a very quick read as it is a novella. Sometimes the family we come to find and love isn’t always blood. I hope there is a sequel. I want more about Prince and Zel! Because it was a novella there wasn’t much story building but I still came to love the main characters in a short read and would love more adventures of Finn, Zel, and Prince!!
Thank you so much to the author Kate Callaghan for the ARC for an honest review.
Thank you so much to the author Kate Callaghan for the ARC for an honest review.
January 25, 2023
An imaginative Rapunzel retelling. Familiar characters and interesting choices make this a great YA Fantasy novel. Trapped in the tower at just 16 by the evil Gothel, Zel finds out how far she’ll really go to save someone she loves, and how far someone else will go to save her. Unlikely friends and harrowing escape plans. Hopefully there is more to this story because it seemed like this was just the beginning. It kept me engaged in rooting for Zel, Finn and even Prince. This was an ARC and I’m voluntarily leaving this review.
February 10, 2023
This is a Rapunzel retelling and is very unique and interesting.
Zel's mom is in hospital, unconscious with a grim prognosis. In an effort to cure her, Zel and her friend Finn decide to try to brew a potion whose recipe they found in an old book. The main ingredient is a plant called Rampion, which Zel has seen growing in her neighbor's yard. Her neighbor is a judge who is not known for kindness or leniency. The potion did help her mom, for a while. After getting caught taking more Rampion, the judge sends Zel to Towerwood, a correctional facility, with a sentence without end in sight....
Zel's mom is in hospital, unconscious with a grim prognosis. In an effort to cure her, Zel and her friend Finn decide to try to brew a potion whose recipe they found in an old book. The main ingredient is a plant called Rampion, which Zel has seen growing in her neighbor's yard. Her neighbor is a judge who is not known for kindness or leniency. The potion did help her mom, for a while. After getting caught taking more Rampion, the judge sends Zel to Towerwood, a correctional facility, with a sentence without end in sight....
January 14, 2023
The authors writing style draws me in, plus I find it very easy to read. Zel is a fun teenager who’s family is having problems that lead her to make some poor choices. I like the fantastical, fairytale elements to the book. However I think because of this magic the author thought she didn’t need to explain why or how things happened, they just did at times. Also the end while was sweet what Zel did for her parents left me wanting more. Good story overall.
January 17, 2023
Not the fairy tale that you expect in this magical retelling of Rapunzel. This novella is a very involved tale about the power of hope, love and friendship, and the magic of remaining true to yourself. And, of course, the wondrous hair does play a part in Zel's rescue. The end left me a little sad because I was hoping that Zel would save the Prince, but she didn't. Or did she .....? Loved the tale!
February 6, 2023
*ARC Review
I love fairytale retellings. I went into this novella not knowing anything about it. The story finally clicked in my mind when Judge Gothel was mentioned. I do think that this could've been expanded on and made into a full novel. I would love to know what happened to some of the characters at the end other than just Zel and Finn. It felt a bit unresolved for others or maybe just rushed. I'm left with a few questions about Prince as well.
I love fairytale retellings. I went into this novella not knowing anything about it. The story finally clicked in my mind when Judge Gothel was mentioned. I do think that this could've been expanded on and made into a full novel. I would love to know what happened to some of the characters at the end other than just Zel and Finn. It felt a bit unresolved for others or maybe just rushed. I'm left with a few questions about Prince as well.
February 16, 2023
This Rapunzel retelling had a fantastic dark side that I didn't anticipate initially.
I wasn't a fan of Judge Gothel or the fact that he had so much power over a town that allowed him to abuse and take advantage of his position. He was the perfect villain.
Was there a genuine love or friendship between Prince and Zel? The tension between the two characters definitely kept the story interesting.
I loved that the ending was not quite what I expected, but I wouldn't have wanted it to end any other way.
Thank you, Kate Callaghan, for an advanced reader copy in exchange for an honest review!
I wasn't a fan of Judge Gothel or the fact that he had so much power over a town that allowed him to abuse and take advantage of his position. He was the perfect villain.
Was there a genuine love or friendship between Prince and Zel? The tension between the two characters definitely kept the story interesting.
I loved that the ending was not quite what I expected, but I wouldn't have wanted it to end any other way.
Thank you, Kate Callaghan, for an advanced reader copy in exchange for an honest review!
February 22, 2023
A modern day retelling novella of Rapunzel that left me wanting to know more about Zel. When Zel is faced with a choice to save her mother, she takes action and crosses the path of Judge Gothel. With Judge Gothel 's power in the town, she is then imprisoned in the Towerwood Facility for Troubled Youth. Kate Callaghan's writing and imagery was detailed and immersive. I was fully entranced in this story! Thank you Kate Callaghan for an advanced copy! All thoughts and opinions are my own!
March 10, 2023
Thank you to Kate Callaghan for this book and I am voluntarily leaving this review. This was a lovely take on "Rapunzel". I love Zel and Finn's friendship and the way they step for each other always. I also enjoy the witchy aspects and Prince,the guard with a heart. I need to know what happens to Prince! Even if you haven't read any fairy tale re-tellings, you will have a great time reading this story!
July 10, 2023
“Les Mis” twist to the crime and punishment of Rapunzel
‘Anger is a powerful motivator’, but it can also be a misleading mistake. When getting back at somebody takes oh so much effort and resources and time, stop. Just stop.
Some sage advice from the author:
Don’t ‘trade one monster for another’.
Only accept a job for which you are paid to think.
I have the other books in this series: ‘Crowned A Traitor’, ‘Where Traitors Fall’, and ‘When Traitors Rise’ as well as ‘Stepmother’.
‘Anger is a powerful motivator’, but it can also be a misleading mistake. When getting back at somebody takes oh so much effort and resources and time, stop. Just stop.
Some sage advice from the author:
Don’t ‘trade one monster for another’.
Only accept a job for which you are paid to think.
I have the other books in this series: ‘Crowned A Traitor’, ‘Where Traitors Fall’, and ‘When Traitors Rise’ as well as ‘Stepmother’.
January 20, 2023
I had so many questions when I first started. So many things seemed to go unanswered. Then boom! I realized it was a rapunzel retelling and I understood. I love the characters. Sweet Prince,feisty Zel,bad a** Finn. I've never seen anything quite like this in a retelling and I loved it! I was left needing more and I can't wait for more of them in the future!
February 8, 2023
This Rapunzel retelling novella was a quick read but a really cool fairy tale retelling. I love retellings so much because it's almost like a game trying to find connections with the original story and see how it's been given a new life. And this retelling was very well done. It's more of a real world, modernish times setting but still with a hint of magic and something more. I liked Zel and her journey, and I loved her friendship with Finn. They were such fun characters and I'd love to see more of them exploring magic and the world. I won't say much more because this is only a novella so it'd be easy to spoil things, but I really did enjoy this and this new take on Rapunzel.
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