Once Upon A [Fallen] Time

Stolen #2

by Samreen Ahsan (Cover Art)

2015...
All her life, Myra Farrow has been obsessed with medieval castle-and the kings and princes who once inhabited them. When Steve Bernard, a wealthy videogame designer offers her to model for a princess character in his new game, Myra can't resist his offer to enter the mysterious, colourless, and cursed Hue Castle. But unknown to Myra, her soul is bound to it by blood and sorcery. When she enters the castle's doors, she awakens dark powers, time travelling through a cursed mirror, torturing her present, and rewriting her future, leaving Steve Bernard with millions of questions.

1415...
Edward Hue, the last of the Hue royal bloodline, has never stood in the sunshine, nor felt the rain, or held a living flower. Cursed from birth to live in darkness and bring death to all he touches, he is at the mercy of his cruel, tyrannical father King Stefan, who will not rest until he shatters Edward's soul and makes his son into a diabolical copy of himself. Edward's one hope is the mysterious woman, who walks into his life through a cursed mirror, out of his dreams, and introduces him: love.

Will Myra break Edward's curse and bring him out of the darkness, or destroy him utterly? Will Steve ever be able to finish his game without Myra? Past and future collide in a tale of love, obsession, betrayal, and the hope for redemption.

This is book 2 of [STOLEN] SERIES

Genres: Romance, Fantasy, Time Travel, Historical Romance

350 pages, Paperback

First published February 13, 2016

About the author

Judge of World's Best Story
Honorable Mention - Readers Favorite 2014 International Book Awards
Best Romance - 2014 Los Angeles Book Festival
Best Romance - 2014 Paris Book Festival
Best Romance - 2014 Hollywood Book Festival
Honorable Mention - 2014 New York Book Festival
Honorable Mention - 2016 New York Book Festival




History, art and literature are my passions. I love digging out information about prophecies, divine miracles and paranormal events that are mentioned in history and holy books, that don’t sound possible in today's modern world.

Since childhood, I have been into reading and writing—and yes, it can’t happen without imagination, which luckily has no boundaries. Dance and music are also pastimes I enjoy, as well as reading romance fiction. I love to travel and explore historical cities.

"A Prayer Series" is my first story about paranormal events based on Islamic concepts.
My new book "Once Upon A [Stolen] Time" is available on Amazon.
http://www.samreenahsan.com

Reviews

[Elfina Renee · Rating 5 out of 5]

Like a royal waltz Myra curtsy to one of her many suitors and places her open palm face up and begins the deadly dance. You know danger is on the horizon with each pivot and twirl.

Villainous snakes reveals themselves, you beg to call out a warning to your beloved characters but you’re just as entranced as they are.



Hexed by a story line…magically turning the pages as the words has a life of their own only you can read. Round and round the tempo of the music takes you as shadows of beast and man plays out on the Hue Castle walls like a cinema movie screen.



As the reader you stop reading and start pacing, adrenaline surges through your veins with eager anticipation and you try and get your wits about you. So you sit back down and gnaw feverishly on your bottom lip.

Captivated by the past as its present merged with a nightmarish future. Your knuckles turns white from gripping the armrest of your chair so hard, while your fingers picks up the pace, rapidly turning to the cataclysmic ending.



Samreen Ahsan is so good weaving this fairy tale…bringing everything so clearly into focus and breathing life into this heart stopping suspense; you wanna keep reading again and again.

I’ve looked upon the mirror, seen who the real monstrous beasts are but I’m not sure I’d coin the phrase…. Beast! More like demon spawned devils. But you’ll have to decide who is the beast.



When does obsession become the killer; and how many more innocents victims will be brought to the slaughter? Or is this another debt the magical curse has decided to collect because I’m not telling…wouldn't want to ruin the plot….. would we?


If you're brave crooks finger in your direction; motioning you to follow…..don’t delay, get ready buttercup and order your copy!

[Tina ➹ Woman, Life, Freedom · Rating 3 out of 5]

"ARC Provided By Author in Exchange for An Honest Review"
thank you

Once Upon A [Fallen] Time
Book 2 of the Stolen series by Samreen Ahsan
First book: Once Upon A Stolen Time– my review

3.5 Silver Stars
With Golden sparks
3 (the entire book) + 0.5 bonus for the last 30%

Months ago, I read the first book in the series, received the ARC provided kindly by the Author. the story was intriguing. I'm so glad the author picked me up to read & review the second book in the series too. I enjoyed reading it. The event I looked forward to so long, happened in this book, but it wasn't as exciting as i expected. It was ordinary, Or at least at first 60% of the book. It was slow pace because of so many thoughts. Then, it started to pace up & actually bringing much more excitements.
-
Plot: ★★★(★)/5
the events had been dragged in 60%, it was plain & after a while it seemed repetitive.
But in the last 30% the story I’ve been looking forward to was revealed. the excitements. The ending.
Can’t wait to read more of their story of love & secrets, magic & vengeance.
-
Characters: ★★★/5
Probably because Myra acting childish & witless? Or stupid? Or both? She didn't comprehend the situation! & fussy, when the dream she longing for it came true.
& probably because of sick-minded King Stefan, I hate him so much.
But lovely brooding Edward; he deserves a happy life. My heart ached for him.
-
Writing style: ★★★(★)/5
So far, 4 POV characters, two main; all in first person view. But not hard to distinguish. They have different styles to narrate the story & different voices.
Slow pace, because of too many thoughts of every POVC, all of them sitting somewhere & overthinking what to do (or what they feel, because it is categorized as romance too; this didn’t bothered me much.) do nothing for a while.
But also easy & quick read.
& I don't like to see swearing in the books (& movies too), especially the bold ones.
-
World building: ★★★★/5
Medieval castle, royal dynasty of cruel kings.
-
Concept: ★★★★/5
Medieval story knitting in our world

[Dianne · Rating 5 out of 5]

Samreen Ahsan takes us through the magical mirror in the ancient, haunted castle and once again, her words are lyrical, her tale mysterious and veiled in a darkness that almost feels like a cloak of shadows.

Myra’s story continues in ONCE UPON A [FALLEN] TIME when she is beckoned into the mirror and a world of the past where princes and kings are cursed never to see sunshine and she is about to lose her heart to a young man whose heart has been hardened by grief, pain and guilt.

Meanwhile, in the present, Steve struggles to explain where she has gone, how to get her back and the realization that, while she is engaged to him, it is Edward Hue that she loves even as his father will do all in his kingly power to crush his soul. Can Myra save Edward and people his father rules from an evil tyrant? Can she bring life and love back to a place consumed in darkness and pain? What of her life she left behind in the future? Has she found her own special place in time or will the past prove to be her doom?

Pure reading bliss! The magic of Samreen Ahsan’s writing is like musical notes on a fine ballad as this tale unfolds without over-the-top action, but a sense of movement that progresses on a natural path. Sometimes painful, sometimes joyous, there is always something just out of reach that keeps readers turning page after page.

Brilliant characters, well-fashioned, unique and developed enough to allow me to like or dislike, or even see through their facades, this is fantasy writing that engages all of the senses as reality fades away.

I received a complimentary ARC edition from Samreen Ahsan and I am extremely grateful!

Series: Stolen Series - Book 2
Genre: Fantasy | Time travel
For Reviews, Giveaways, Fabulous Book News, follow: http://tometender.blogspot.com

[Sheri · Rating 5 out of 5]

Once Upon A (Fallen) Time by Samreen Ahsan

In 2015 Myra meets a wealthy (video game) developer (Steve). He offers her a chance to model for one of his games, and she agrees not knowing what is about to happen. She soon becomes bound by magic and travels through a mirror to 1415 Hue Castle, a place that she has been intrigued with.

Once there she meets Edward (Hue) who has been cursed, never to see sunshine, left to live a life of gloom, until he meets Myra. But things are not easy, as Edwards Father the ruthless King Stefan has other plans. Myra may be the only one who can break Edwards curse, will she be able to free him? Will she ever make it back to Steve and her Parents?

A fast paced romance/fantasy with an original plot. Well written, alternating from the present back to 1415, with vivid details and engaging dialog. The characters are well developed where I felt as if I knew each one personally. I really Like Myra and Edward and felt as if I were part of their story. Overall I enjoyed Once Upon A [Fallen] Time (Stolen Series II) and look forward to book three. Those who love fantasy/romance should enjoy it as well. I highly recommend.

[Paula Brown · Rating 5 out of 5]

We will begin with the Authors opening statements;
"Life is a tomb built on beautiful memories, ardous past , and afflicting pains
Its a sepulchral of emotions, truth, betrayals,lies and secrets- a catacomb
of haunted souls."

She peered into the mirror, and was literally pulled into the past by Prince Edward.
Was it Fate, Destiny, or ill fated Magic?
Her life as she knew it was gone --- and she was stuck centuries in the past.

The Prince loved her but was afraid of her, and he was also afraid of what his beast would do to her--
because as he said she came out of his dreams .

This woman.. I looked at her... she had given me hope...
hope for atonement and redemption.. hope to fill my life
with colors.. hope to breathe life into me .. hope to
find love.. someday.

Myra had brought life to a dead castle-- with her presence
sunshine was shining in Prince Edwards bed chamber,
laughter, and rain. Where there is sunshine and rain-- there is life.

This story has many twists and turns, and an unexpected ending.
I agree with others who say this series belong in the movies -- trust me
this is MOVIE worthy.. The author left nothing to chance-- she filled
in every possible detail, with exact precision. This was an excellant read--
one that I truly didnt want to see end.

[April ♥"LOS" ♥ · Rating 5 out of 5]

After getting pulled through the mirror at Hue Castle and into 1415, Myra is now face to face with the man of her dreams, Edward Hue. But the man of her dreams quickly morphs into the monster that she fears.
Broken down by his father, King Stefan, Edward is ready to walk away from the kingdom and leave everything. But when Myra comes through the mirror he knows he must stay and protect her. Not only from his father but from himself.
Myra knows that Edward is not the monster that he sees in the mirror and she is determined to show him love and bring him into the light. But is it too late to save his soul and if so will she ever be able to return to her time?
If you're into PNR and fantasy I would highly recommend checking out this series.

[Zoe Horton · Rating 5 out of 5]

#Inkitt and #wattpad I followed this book onto wattpad after reading the first one. I love it's storyline and the main character. It pulls me in until i feel like im in the book. I strongly recommend this to anyone who loves a "stone hearted" guy and strongwilled girl romance.

[Diana~ (Kiss Me Books) · Rating 4 out of 5]

Once Upon A [Fallen] Time is the sequel and second book in the Stolen series. I read the first book, Once Upon A [Stolen] Time a couple of years ago and really enjoyed it! I do recommend re-reading the first book in order to fully understand and grasp the situation our two main characters, Myra and Edward, are in. Samreen Ahsan once again delivers and I couldn't be happier. I adored Myra and Edward's relationship in the first book and thought Samreen did a wonderful job continuing their romance by building up even further. I can feel Edward's longing and love for Myra, which is a bonus in my opinion.

The story in Once Upon A [Fallen] Time takes place immediately after the events of the first book, which contained a cliffhanger. Myra and Edward are finally together but there are still obstacles in their path to a happy ending. Edward is still dealing with his "demons" and Myra's personality is still the same as ever. She just wants everything now. Another thing was that I thought Samreen commendably wove both past and present point of views between Myra and Edward together perfectly. Even though their romance is still in the early stage of development, Myra is now in Edward's time! However, as with the last book, there are still so many questions and not enough answers. The book does end with another cliffhanger and it is an emotional one at that.

In the last review, I didn't mention King Steven but he honestly gave me the creeps and I don't trust him at all. Looks like I was right, and so many others. I can't wait to read the next book to see what will happen next. I really really hope Edward will find out the truth. Overall, I highly recommend this series to those who are looking for a solid romance with elements of time travel and history in it!

[Myra Espino · Rating 5 out of 5]

#wattpad

Once Upon a Fallen Time

Wow!!! Like freaking wow!! Samreen nailed it again!!
Once Upon a Fallen Time is the 2 book of Myra's story. But let me tell you this, read book 1 first before reading this because most of the book is connected to book 1 and you will be lost if you haven't read it yet.
Anyway, Once Upon a Fallen Time started where book 1 ended. Things get more interesting when the past meets the present. With all the drama starting to unfold, everything will get more intense.
Tho on the first part, it was a bit draggy but don't let it stop you for continuing. The story and the characters are good. I love the build up and I was easily hooked when I was in the exciting part!!

**sigh**

Tho, I am looking forward to what will happen next to Myra!! My gawd!! The ending is killing me!!!

[Ruth B · Rating 4 out of 5]

Myra has been obsessed with fairy tales and medieval times, and by some strange curse, her life is tied to the past. And by the end of book one in the series, she is finally in the place she always dream off. Now, after Myra traveled to the past her fiancé is having a hard time explaining what happened to her and figuring out how to bring her back. Present and past dance around broken souls and love.

Myra has always been in love with Edward, even before knowing him and now has to help him save himself. But, she is engaged with Steve who has a hard time accepting that maybe she is not the one for him. And to add more, Edward's father has dark motives behind his actions. Intrigue, twists and turns, ulterior motives, surprises, and unexpected outcomes, makes this one a really good book.

The author creates a world that trespasses the pages and becomes real. It catches the reader and doesn't let go. The story has a dark tone, and you can feel sort of an aura of anguish and sadness around it. The emotions and feelings are palpable and more than words.

I really enjoyed the book and I hope there is another one in the future.

*** I received a complimentary copy in exchange for an honest review. ***

[Desi · Rating 5 out of 5]

Book two was even more intriguing as the story goes on. You can’t help but be swept back in time where the world was ruled by Kings and Queens and the night skies only sparkled because of the stars. The author’s passion and love of history is clear as day when you start reading.

As you turn each page, you feel like you are walking the halls of someone’s home and reading their life story. You living their pain, their hurt, their anger, and their love for all things.

Book two was a roller coaster of emotions that drove me mad at one point, while bringing elation the next moment. She delivers such a beautiful story that she makes you feel what each character is feeling. When you read this series, you will travel in time to a world where true love is the root of all. Yes the story does not end here and we live in a world of Your Grace and Your Highness. Will what has been said over the years prevail and hold truth? Or can ones heart hold enough love and beauty to break the curse? Will shall see! Book 3 where are you??

[Cranky - The Book Curmudgeon · Rating 5 out of 5]

5 Cranky Stars


This book picks up with the aftermath of what happened in the first book. Myra Farrow has disappeared through a mirror. Where in all that is time travels did she go to? The author does a wonderful job of dragging out the suspense of answering this question.


I really enjoyed how Steve Bernard was a featured player in this book. It was interesting to get some of the story from his POV. We find that he has a few secrets that he has been keeping as well. I love how the timelines interweave with one another. There are a few magical twists that keep you engaged in the story.


I thought the story was well written, and once again the ending left me wanting more. I will definitely recommend this story to others.

[A Book Lover's Emporium Book Blog · Rating 4 out of 5]

I was so giddy and excited to read this book. I was entranced and so utterly lost in the pages of this book, I didn't hear my name being called!

The story flowed and was easy to read. Some questions were answered from book one, yet some have still gone unanswered. I adore this storyline and am impressed with how easy it flowed from one time period to another.

Myra has more strength and patience than any other woman I've read about. She is genuine, kind and intelligent. Edward is a frustrating man and I often wanted to knock sense into him! Watching his painstakingly slow transformation was beautiful.

For as much as I adored this book, it made me frustrated. I have many questions and curiosities as to how this story will be completed. I am in need of book three to see how this concludes! I am hooked on this series and strongly recommend it to everyone!

[Joy D. Fanning · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really enjoyed reading book one a few years ago, so when the opportunity came up to read book two of the Stolen series I was so excited! I am happy to report that this book was just as enjoyable as book one!

It was so easy to fall back into this story. Even with chapters from different characters perspectives the story moves quickly and keeps the reader engaged. I liked that Ahsan allows the reader to see what is happening on both sides of the mirror.

The characters in this story are very human, having both good and bad traits. It can make it hard to decide who you want to see get together, but so enjoyable. Edward does portray a beastly prince, but Myra is both full of compassion and spark.

If you are a fan of fantasy, romance or even mystery you need to add this series to your list!

[Praise · Rating 5 out of 5]

It had been amidst one of the best books I read this year. Despite having left #wattpad for years, I just had the app for Thursday updates which never disappointed me. Every chapter is so well written, the characters are so patiently yet vividly expressed.
Myra and Edward can impress anyone for they are such loving characters, completely different from the monotonous protagonists. They have depth and their feelings seem genuine.
Steve and King both serve as antagonists belonging to different time zones.
Haakon poses as a very intriguing character, and I'd love to witness his part in the following novels.
In short, I cannot wait for the next book in the series, knowing it'd be amazing, just like the rest of the books in this series.

[Geeta Talreja · Rating 5 out of 5]

Myra, who time travelled and met Edward, the man whom she began to love even without meeting him...And now when she is with the love of her life (Edward) she is unaware of dangers coming her way as King Stefan thinks she is the one to end the Hue Castle's Curse. How will she survive and get the love of her life. Poor love stuck Steve, whether he will ever be able to meet Myra again...A perfect drama, romantic love story...Five Star from my Side... great work @Samreen Ahsan...

[Samra · Rating 5 out of 5]

One of the best book I've ever read so far!! Al the story of castle seems very real! I was completely lost in my own fantasies while readng this book!! This book is worth giving five stars TRUST ME!!!! Even the selection of words n lyrics r beyond perfection!! I swear I can't wait fr the next book! Lol! Author Samreen Ahsan is literally ma all time favorite!!

[Palwasha Khan · Rating 5 out of 5]

The second book of this series , even better with it's drama , mystery , romance than first one . if you have read first book I bet you can't ignore this one too. Beautifully crafted book will make you lost in hue castle in this journey of Myra and Edward❤❤.
#wattpad.

[Fosteriana Veronika · Rating 5 out of 5]

Finally after 2 years waited for this book. I love story about how myra and edward. Always amazed by the author. Caused she knew how to describe everything in this book. So we can enjoyed and fall in to the story. #wattpad
Thanks 😊

[Renju Amrithalal · Rating 5 out of 5]

Amazing book

Both the books in the series are captivating and equally enchanting. Can't wait to read the third book of the series

[Amna Hira · Rating 5 out of 5]

Very amazing story. unique & so marvellous!!#wattpad

[Diana Montes · Rating 5 out of 5]

I can’t believe you left me hanging with the first book. I was hooked all the way with the second. Can’t wait for the third one! #wattpad..... my username on wattpad is Hershey_Queen15

[Nicole · Rating 4 out of 5]

Such a beautiful story! Waiting on pins and needles to find out what will happen next in this historic, romantic adventure. Such a beautifully written sequel to what is bound to be an epic series.

[Ellie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Final Score - 5 Oh Em Gee, This is NOT Happening! Stars!!!

Let's recap ... Myra isn't your average 22-year-old - she's a bit obsessed with everything medieval (princess, kings, castles, etc.). Her family, trying to steer Myra away from this obsession, arranges for her to meet Steve so a marriage can take place between them. They hit it off, but also broker a deal. He'll use her as his main character in his video game to be based on Hue Castle - which happens to be the source of Myra's long standing obsession. But along with her obsession with the castle is her connection to Edward, the last Hue heir.

Once again, Ms. Ahsan has crafted a spell-binding story that I had a hard time putting down, as I need answers! Now that Myra has been brought through the mirror's portal to Edward's time of 1415, what if anything can she change? And what will the repercussions be in her time(2015)? I had a hard time putting this one down and was more than ready to read it when the author reached out to me to notify me that she had finished the story. I was eagerly ready for this and was not once disappointed during the read. I still however have burning questions and I need to know all and everything there is to know - ever more so now than before - about the circumstances of Myra's existence and just how it ties to Hue Castle. Is she a descendant? Or is there something more to her than meets the eye?

Edward grew on me more in this book - I got to see thing from his prospective more and I have to say I feel for him so much more. His father ... well, no one should have a father like him. King Stefan is the worst of the worst a parent can ever be. The fact the Myra now knows his end is satisfying but the fact that it's tied to her leave me in agony. They have to find a way around that!

I wish I could say that Steven grew on me, as he presented a challenge to me as a character in the last book, but my analysis of him is spot on and I still don't trust him. There's just something about him that rubs me wrong. He's intentions go beyond self fulfilling desires for his game to succeed. Maybe it's that fact that his name is Steven ... and I'm not like King Stefan. I'm having a hard time separating the two of them. They both give me the run for the hill vibes.

This book again ended with a cliffhanger and what an emotional one at that - you cannot leave me hanging!!! OMG ... I need to know that she's alright. I need to know that Edward found out the truth about what King Stefan has done. I cannot wait for the next book cause I need like yesterday!

[Aishatu Yayajo · Rating 5 out of 5]

A book 4 everyone to read

[Ruofu Zumvu · Rating 5 out of 5]

Feeling magically transported to another world. In daze with the series, wondering how a person can put a feelings into writing expressing so beautifully, I should say it's not easy to do that. Applause to the author hard works.

[P Leslie · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the second book in the Stolen Series and is not a standalone. I would strongly recommend reading the books in order.

The last book ended in a cliffhanger; leaving my heart pounding with complete and utter dread. Myra’s presence in his time changes everything - can she break down the walls Edwards’ spent all his life erecting? Can he protect her from the King’s cruelty and lust?

Myra made me laugh when she started yelling though the mirror, calling King Stefan every name under the sun lol. Her nickname for Edward definitely suited him. I could pretty much imagine the steam coming out of his ears lol.

The author captured Edward’s need to own Myra’s mind, body and soul perfectly. Their connection is stronger than ever and yet he fights his inner beast for control. He wants to love her yet his beast wants to break her - can Myra tame the beast without destroying Edward?

The chemistry between Myra and Edward was scorching hot. Their hunger, need and love for each other burned passionately yet fiercely.

Their love is about to be tested to its limits and something tells me that things will get worse before they get better. Can Edward trust Myra to keep his heart safe? Can he save her from the awful fate that awaits her?

The author goes back and forth from past to present and she did it flawlessly. Myra and Edward’s love shined brightly throughout - it was beautiful, magical and made my toes curl.

Be prepared both books have ended in a cliffhanger and believe me, although I’m gutted, I anxiously await for the next instalment.

[Ruofu Zumvu · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great book

[Namrata Ganti · Rating 4 out of 5]

Samreen Ahsan brings to us a smashing second book in the series. This book follows up where the first one left off, but takes us deeper into the past. In the first book, Myra only had dreams and glimpses of Edward, but in this one, she finally crosses over to the past. The author takes us on a journey through Edwards world as Myra tries to navigate her way. Edward tries to keep her hidden from the king, but it is not so easy. When the king finds out about her, it is her wit and knowledge of this past time that keeps her going.

The author brings to us a wonderful tale of love and mystery, weaving the past with the present. In the present, Myra's family and friends are missing her and no-one knows where she is except Steve. Even though he tries to explain it, no-one believes the 'story' he tells.

In the past, Edward is fascinated by Myra and as she passes some time there, changes start to occur. Some color starts to appear in his otherwise dark life. The author once again handles the characters very well and weaves an intriguing plot!

A must read for all romance lovers out there and of course for fans of the author!

[Doris Holbrook · Rating 5 out of 5]

WOW what a great book! The authors way with words is like poetry. I couldn't put the book down reading late into the night even though I had to work at 6am the next morning. I want more!