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Once Upon a Broken Crown: A Fairytale Retelling Anthology
Your favorite fairytales, reimagined. What if Captain Hook was Snow White's Savior? And Belle was the Beast she feared. Maybe Red Riding Hood isn't so sweet. What if the villain got the girl? Or the Princesses we know and love had secrets so dark, their tales were better left distorted.
20+ classic tales retold from the minds of best-selling and award-winning authors. Romance like you've never imagined, spice that’ll set you ablaze, and adventure that'll keep you on the edge of your seat. Everyone deserves a happily ever after—even if it's twisted.
Authors in this set include: Erin O'Kane, Susana Mohel, Sade Rena, Annie James, Amarie Avant & Xavier Neal, Lark Anderson & LJ Anderson, DC Renee, Catharina Maura, Mikki Noble, Kelly N. Jane, Amanda Kimberley & P. Mattern, Alexandra Silva, Olivia Peters, Katherine L. Evans, Sarah Bale, Taya Rune, Devyn Sinclair, Emma Luna, C. Hallman and Monica Corwin, and Sierra Rowan.
20+ classic tales retold from the minds of best-selling and award-winning authors. Romance like you've never imagined, spice that’ll set you ablaze, and adventure that'll keep you on the edge of your seat. Everyone deserves a happily ever after—even if it's twisted.
Authors in this set include: Erin O'Kane, Susana Mohel, Sade Rena, Annie James, Amarie Avant & Xavier Neal, Lark Anderson & LJ Anderson, DC Renee, Catharina Maura, Mikki Noble, Kelly N. Jane, Amanda Kimberley & P. Mattern, Alexandra Silva, Olivia Peters, Katherine L. Evans, Sarah Bale, Taya Rune, Devyn Sinclair, Emma Luna, C. Hallman and Monica Corwin, and Sierra Rowan.
3173 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 15, 2022
205 people are currently reading
1464 people want to read
About the author
Erin O'Kane
65 books487 followersErin O'Kane is an independent author from the UK. She used to work within healthcare, but now is able to follow her dream as a full time author. Writing is her escape and a dream she never thought possible until she was given a push from her friends and family.
She has an addiction to coffee, Lucozade and baked goods. When not writing she will be found on adventures with her husband, reading a book or watching bad romance movies.
She has an addiction to coffee, Lucozade and baked goods. When not writing she will be found on adventures with her husband, reading a book or watching bad romance movies.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 209 reviews
September 14, 2022
Well, to be frank, this anthology is just awful. Twenty stories, and barely one I can call acceptable to my fairy tale retellings standards.
The problem is, in a nutshell, that this is mostly wannabe erotica and "dark" romance that uses fairy tales the way you use salt to disguise the blandness of overcooked veggies: merely there as an excuse. Some run contrary to the fairy tales' themes and metaphors, which tells you they aren't even good disguises. It could've been a regular anthology of erotica/dark romance, honestly sold as such instead of trying to follow folk stories the authors clearly didn't bother to either understand or respect. Subversion is more than having a tacky story of Snow White having an orgy with seven guys whilst eating apples and calling it a "retelling," you know.
No, there's no such story here, but near enough as makes no matter. There's stuff like a LRRH retelling in which Red falls into a trap and whilst in pain from having herself in the trap, can't help but notice how hot and fuckable the guy, creatively called Wolfe, that comes to rescue her is. I'm not stupid as to believe you'll be admiring a guy's wide shoulders whilst your leg is broken! And then there's the couple of retellings, one of which is a Beauty & Beast story, in which the dudes are crime lords. Sure, the Mexican cartel and Russian bratva murderers are so smoking hot they have girls throwing themselves at them with no regard for common sense. And of course, in the "East of the Sun and West of the Moon" retelling, the girl has not one but FOUR bears she sleeps with each night in turn and gets to know in the Biblical sense of the word in a foursome. Oh, and did I mention that Cinderella is raped, which is described graphically but called "making love" all the while she's told to enjoy it? Yes, that's in here too.
I know there's a market for stories like those, a market for toxic, warped, dysfunctional, abusive, and harmful relationships and romance, but I'm not that market, and I'm sure others aren't either, so that's why I'm putting this out there, spoilers and all. If you like regular retellings, don't bother with this anthology, you won't find anything like you'd normally expect. If dark/problematic romance is your thing, then this might be your cuppa.
For me, it wasn't worthwhile. About the only story that had potential was the first of the 3 Beauty & Beast retellings included here, "Broken Beauty" by Catharina Maura. I didn't entirely like the male lead, how annoyingly possessive he was in the beginning, and the descriptions of the sexual tension was a bit much at times, but overall it's a story that for the most part follows the outline of the tale, had an interesting world and magic system, and a couple that both evolve and mature in the course of their union. I'd rate that one 4 stars, and I'd be overjoyed if the author were to republish it separately, so I can own that one for my B&B collection and toss this anthology away; it deserves to be appreciated on its own.
The problem is, in a nutshell, that this is mostly wannabe erotica and "dark" romance that uses fairy tales the way you use salt to disguise the blandness of overcooked veggies: merely there as an excuse. Some run contrary to the fairy tales' themes and metaphors, which tells you they aren't even good disguises. It could've been a regular anthology of erotica/dark romance, honestly sold as such instead of trying to follow folk stories the authors clearly didn't bother to either understand or respect. Subversion is more than having a tacky story of Snow White having an orgy with seven guys whilst eating apples and calling it a "retelling," you know.
No, there's no such story here, but near enough as makes no matter. There's stuff like a LRRH retelling in which Red falls into a trap and whilst in pain from having herself in the trap, can't help but notice how hot and fuckable the guy, creatively called Wolfe, that comes to rescue her is. I'm not stupid as to believe you'll be admiring a guy's wide shoulders whilst your leg is broken! And then there's the couple of retellings, one of which is a Beauty & Beast story, in which the dudes are crime lords. Sure, the Mexican cartel and Russian bratva murderers are so smoking hot they have girls throwing themselves at them with no regard for common sense. And of course, in the "East of the Sun and West of the Moon" retelling, the girl has not one but FOUR bears she sleeps with each night in turn and gets to know in the Biblical sense of the word in a foursome. Oh, and did I mention that Cinderella is raped, which is described graphically but called "making love" all the while she's told to enjoy it? Yes, that's in here too.
I know there's a market for stories like those, a market for toxic, warped, dysfunctional, abusive, and harmful relationships and romance, but I'm not that market, and I'm sure others aren't either, so that's why I'm putting this out there, spoilers and all. If you like regular retellings, don't bother with this anthology, you won't find anything like you'd normally expect. If dark/problematic romance is your thing, then this might be your cuppa.
For me, it wasn't worthwhile. About the only story that had potential was the first of the 3 Beauty & Beast retellings included here, "Broken Beauty" by Catharina Maura. I didn't entirely like the male lead, how annoyingly possessive he was in the beginning, and the descriptions of the sexual tension was a bit much at times, but overall it's a story that for the most part follows the outline of the tale, had an interesting world and magic system, and a couple that both evolve and mature in the course of their union. I'd rate that one 4 stars, and I'd be overjoyed if the author were to republish it separately, so I can own that one for my B&B collection and toss this anthology away; it deserves to be appreciated on its own.
March 15, 2022
*ARC received from authors in exchange for my honest review on Twisted Debt by Amarie Avant & Xavier Neal in the Once Upon A Broken Crown Boxset *
What happens when your dad makes a mistake, and you are the one left paying off his debt?
For 25-year-old nursing student Zel her life has always been a struggle. It doesn't seem like things are getting any easier for her when she finds she is the one to pay off her father's debt. The man she is to spend three months with is devastatingly handsome but there is something else there. Something behind his eyes that leaves her wondering what her father has gotten her into.
Elias doesn't do love. He has dolls, women that he can make into what he wishes them to be in that moment. There is something different about Zel, she isn't like others. After only a month together he is starting to experience things, he never has for one of his toys.
When everything crumbles after one mistake will they ever be able to come back from that?
I adore Xavier Neal! Her stories always pull you in from the start, but this was my first Amarie Avant story. I loved the way their words combined to create this fascinating and seriously sexy story told in a whole new way.
What happens when your dad makes a mistake, and you are the one left paying off his debt?
For 25-year-old nursing student Zel her life has always been a struggle. It doesn't seem like things are getting any easier for her when she finds she is the one to pay off her father's debt. The man she is to spend three months with is devastatingly handsome but there is something else there. Something behind his eyes that leaves her wondering what her father has gotten her into.
Elias doesn't do love. He has dolls, women that he can make into what he wishes them to be in that moment. There is something different about Zel, she isn't like others. After only a month together he is starting to experience things, he never has for one of his toys.
When everything crumbles after one mistake will they ever be able to come back from that?
I adore Xavier Neal! Her stories always pull you in from the start, but this was my first Amarie Avant story. I loved the way their words combined to create this fascinating and seriously sexy story told in a whole new way.
February 22, 2022
Beautiful Beast by Olivia Peters is the fairytale retelling everyone needs to read. It’s intense, and emotional, and powerful, and heart wrenching, and absolutely amazing! From the subtle details Peters weaves into the tale (pay attention to both Adam and Belle’s best friends’ names) to the throwback homages to the classic fairytale (think roses and libraries), this story nuances out all the feels. The steam level- off the charts! The characters- beautifully created and developed throughout the story, ringing true to the Belle and Beast we all know, but upping the ante in a modern world of haves and have nots. The tension between the characters builds upon their own inner struggles to break boundaries and build bonds worthy of a stunning HEA. This story is serious book hangover material. Be prepared to stay up all night finishing this book, I know I did. And I’ll do it again.
February 19, 2022
- My review is for “The Outcast” by Taya Rune.
Kahlahnni has known from a young age that she is different, with her petite figure and dark hair. People mock her for the way she looks, for not being tall and blonde like they are. When Lahnni is revealed to be a Roamer, everything changes. She is now ostracized more than ever, and must find a safe place to live.
With the help of a charming Captain named Evannderth, Lahnni sets out to discover more people like her. She uses her abilities to read people’s emotions to find a safe space. But she must deal with her own whirring emotions years later when she runs into Evannderth yet again… and is no less attracted to him.
Okay, so this was a super unique story about a girl who just doesn’t fit in. I could definitely sympathize with the fact that Lahnni was labeled as an outcast and that others were cruel to her when she didn’t deserve it. I think that Lahnni is a sweet girl whose kind nature was hardened by her circumstances.
I also liked the romance between her and Captain Evannderth. I think it was believable and well written. I‘n glad that Lahnni eventually figured out that she didn’t deserve to be treated the way she was used to being treated, and I was so proud of her for growing into a more confident young woman. All in all, a nice fantasy read!
Kahlahnni has known from a young age that she is different, with her petite figure and dark hair. People mock her for the way she looks, for not being tall and blonde like they are. When Lahnni is revealed to be a Roamer, everything changes. She is now ostracized more than ever, and must find a safe place to live.
With the help of a charming Captain named Evannderth, Lahnni sets out to discover more people like her. She uses her abilities to read people’s emotions to find a safe space. But she must deal with her own whirring emotions years later when she runs into Evannderth yet again… and is no less attracted to him.
Okay, so this was a super unique story about a girl who just doesn’t fit in. I could definitely sympathize with the fact that Lahnni was labeled as an outcast and that others were cruel to her when she didn’t deserve it. I think that Lahnni is a sweet girl whose kind nature was hardened by her circumstances.
I also liked the romance between her and Captain Evannderth. I think it was believable and well written. I‘n glad that Lahnni eventually figured out that she didn’t deserve to be treated the way she was used to being treated, and I was so proud of her for growing into a more confident young woman. All in all, a nice fantasy read!
March 15, 2022
My review is for Amarie Avant & Xavier Neal's Twisted Debt
This is a twist on Rapunzel with hints of Beauty and the Beast for good measure!
I have ready many of Xavier Neal's novels before and I am a huge fan, but this is my first experience with Amarie Avant's work. Having written together, I couldn't tell that it wasn't completely Xavier Neal's solo darker works. It was quite dark compared to some of her NA and lighter ones! Each book is completely different in feel than the last, and this is certainly that way. I LOVED IT!
I highly recommend picking up this collection and skipping straight to this one - the father "selling" his daughter to pay a debt (like in Beauty and the Beast), and the daughter falling for her captor (the beast), and doing everything for him, is thrilling is the most delicious way. Her brother trying to be her saviour when he himself is no good, made me think of him in the role of Gaston. There were mentions of her hair on multiple occasions and each and every time, it was a big reference back to Rapunzel.
Overall, very quick read, but fantastic! (I just wish it could have gone on!!) 5 stars to my gal Xavier, and my new gal Amarie! I can't wait to read the rest of this collection now that it is available!
I received an ARC copy of this section, Twisted Debt, from Xavier Neal and DS Book Promotions, and this is my honest review.
This is a twist on Rapunzel with hints of Beauty and the Beast for good measure!
I have ready many of Xavier Neal's novels before and I am a huge fan, but this is my first experience with Amarie Avant's work. Having written together, I couldn't tell that it wasn't completely Xavier Neal's solo darker works. It was quite dark compared to some of her NA and lighter ones! Each book is completely different in feel than the last, and this is certainly that way. I LOVED IT!
I highly recommend picking up this collection and skipping straight to this one - the father "selling" his daughter to pay a debt (like in Beauty and the Beast), and the daughter falling for her captor (the beast), and doing everything for him, is thrilling is the most delicious way. Her brother trying to be her saviour when he himself is no good, made me think of him in the role of Gaston. There were mentions of her hair on multiple occasions and each and every time, it was a big reference back to Rapunzel.
Overall, very quick read, but fantastic! (I just wish it could have gone on!!) 5 stars to my gal Xavier, and my new gal Amarie! I can't wait to read the rest of this collection now that it is available!
I received an ARC copy of this section, Twisted Debt, from Xavier Neal and DS Book Promotions, and this is my honest review.
March 9, 2022
My review is for Twisted Debt a modern day retelling of Rapunzel. Zel is a hardworking nursing student with an ill mother and a gambler for a father. A pact is made with Elias to pay her fathers debt. What seems like a bad idea turns right into a fairy tale with Elias and Zel working toward and HEA. Loved this fun, dark , steamy romance!
March 5, 2022
My review for Twisted Debt by Amarie Avant and Xavier Neal. I loved Zel and Elias story!! Definitely better than the original fairy tale. I received an ARC for my honest opinion. I'm looking forward to reading Once Upon a Broken Crown Anthology.
March 3, 2022
Loved Twisted Debt by xavier neal and amarie avant
Zel and Elias intense emotional broken heartstopping love story
Need more
Zel and Elias intense emotional broken heartstopping love story
Need more
March 15, 2022
My review is for Beautiful Beast by Olivia Peters.
I absolutely love this retelling of Beauty and the Beast by Olivia Peters. This is not the story that us readers grew up on aka "Disney" version. Nope, this version is Showtime rated. I have read many books by Olivia, and they all bring the "steam", but I have to say this is by far the "steamiest" story of them all.
Adam was rough around the edges, but he was no match for Belle. She definitely won Adam over and that is when things really heated up. Not to say that the sexual tension before than was anything but HOT. If this is your first introduction to Olivia Peters, you are in for a great treat, and I can guarantee you will become a fan.
Merged review:
I absolutely love this retelling of Beauty and the Beast by Olivia Peters. This is not the story that us readers grew up on aka "Disney" version. Nope, this version is Showtime rated. I have read many books by Olivia, and they all bring the "steam", but I have to say this is by far the "steamiest" story of them all.
Adam was rough around the edges, but he was no match for Belle. She definitely won Adam over and that is when things really heated up. Not to say that the sexual tension before than was anything but HOT. If this is your first introduction to Olivia Peters, you are in for a great treat, and I can guarantee you will become a fan.
I absolutely love this retelling of Beauty and the Beast by Olivia Peters. This is not the story that us readers grew up on aka "Disney" version. Nope, this version is Showtime rated. I have read many books by Olivia, and they all bring the "steam", but I have to say this is by far the "steamiest" story of them all.
Adam was rough around the edges, but he was no match for Belle. She definitely won Adam over and that is when things really heated up. Not to say that the sexual tension before than was anything but HOT. If this is your first introduction to Olivia Peters, you are in for a great treat, and I can guarantee you will become a fan.
Merged review:
I absolutely love this retelling of Beauty and the Beast by Olivia Peters. This is not the story that us readers grew up on aka "Disney" version. Nope, this version is Showtime rated. I have read many books by Olivia, and they all bring the "steam", but I have to say this is by far the "steamiest" story of them all.
Adam was rough around the edges, but he was no match for Belle. She definitely won Adam over and that is when things really heated up. Not to say that the sexual tension before than was anything but HOT. If this is your first introduction to Olivia Peters, you are in for a great treat, and I can guarantee you will become a fan.
June 4, 2022
Review for Twisted Debt.
This story was amazing! I went though the emotions for the book. I went from being not sure about the MMC to absolutely loving him and wanting to be his little doll. The FMC is definitely one lucky long haired lady! Such a fantastic twist to the fairy tale that has always been a favorite of mine.
More reviews to come
This story was amazing! I went though the emotions for the book. I went from being not sure about the MMC to absolutely loving him and wanting to be his little doll. The FMC is definitely one lucky long haired lady! Such a fantastic twist to the fairy tale that has always been a favorite of mine.
More reviews to come
March 16, 2022
Sinner’s Kiss by Alexandra Silva
Sinner’s Kiss is a prequel to the Virtues & Lies series but can easily be read on its own. This story was entertaining and just full speed from page one. Terrific mix of suspense and steam. Lucy and Tomasz feed off one another from the get go all because of the fierceness that is Lucy. She didn’t back down no matter how rough Tomasz got. She fought back. It was thrilling and just a great ride.
Lucy had a choice to make and it wasn’t an easy one. So it was interesting to see her adapt to her surroundings and accept her decision.
The chemistry and steam between them was hot. I may not be totally convinced that it’s deep love but it didn’t affect my enjoyment of the story.
Sinner’s Kiss delivers the suspense and steam but most of all a kick ass heroine.
4 Red Stars
Sinner’s Kiss is a prequel to the Virtues & Lies series but can easily be read on its own. This story was entertaining and just full speed from page one. Terrific mix of suspense and steam. Lucy and Tomasz feed off one another from the get go all because of the fierceness that is Lucy. She didn’t back down no matter how rough Tomasz got. She fought back. It was thrilling and just a great ride.
Lucy had a choice to make and it wasn’t an easy one. So it was interesting to see her adapt to her surroundings and accept her decision.
The chemistry and steam between them was hot. I may not be totally convinced that it’s deep love but it didn’t affect my enjoyment of the story.
Sinner’s Kiss delivers the suspense and steam but most of all a kick ass heroine.
4 Red Stars
March 10, 2022
I have not read the full anthology yet, but definitely will once it is released.
I DID get to read an advanced copy of Twisted Debt by Xavier Neal and Amarie Avant, and that story captured my attention from the beginning once it was revealed what the collateral was. Witnessing the relationship between Elias and Zen grow, and evolve was an interesting ride. It was full of steam, questioning, and falling. Every single moment of the story had me wondering what was going to happen next.
I DID get to read an advanced copy of Twisted Debt by Xavier Neal and Amarie Avant, and that story captured my attention from the beginning once it was revealed what the collateral was. Witnessing the relationship between Elias and Zen grow, and evolve was an interesting ride. It was full of steam, questioning, and falling. Every single moment of the story had me wondering what was going to happen next.
March 8, 2022
Review for: Twisted Debt by Xavier Neal and Amarie Avant
What starts as a contracted relationship quickly turns real for Zel & Elias. She breaks down his walls, showing him there's more to life that work. He takes care of her in a way she's never known before.
It's a quick read with lots of heart and even more spice.
What starts as a contracted relationship quickly turns real for Zel & Elias. She breaks down his walls, showing him there's more to life that work. He takes care of her in a way she's never known before.
It's a quick read with lots of heart and even more spice.
March 5, 2022
My review is for Twisted Debt by Xavier Neal and Amarie Avant 4⭐ A really fast paced and inventive take on the Rapunzel story. It's a lil dark, a lil spicy and I couldn't put it down. I received a copy of this and I volunteered to read and leave an unbiased review. All opinions are my own.
March 3, 2022
Review for The Outcast
Kalahanni is different and when she finds out she's a Roamer, everyone treats her as such. With the help of others, she sets out to figure out who she is and where she comes from.
This was a fun tale that had a lot of twists and turns to the story. I loved that we get different characters represented and that the story embraces differences. The plot was fun and entertaining, but the pacing was on the slower side for this story.
Kalahanni is different and when she finds out she's a Roamer, everyone treats her as such. With the help of others, she sets out to figure out who she is and where she comes from.
This was a fun tale that had a lot of twists and turns to the story. I loved that we get different characters represented and that the story embraces differences. The plot was fun and entertaining, but the pacing was on the slower side for this story.
March 3, 2022
The Outcast by Taya Rune
A different story that had me wondering where it was going. I really enjoyed that this storyline while is was the same formula, had a unusual twist to it. Can’t wait for book 2!!
A different story that had me wondering where it was going. I really enjoyed that this storyline while is was the same formula, had a unusual twist to it. Can’t wait for book 2!!
February 26, 2022
Sinner’s Kiss by Alexandra Silva
Sinner’s Kiss was a splendid read that drew me in, and kept me there. Tomascz was an intense character and to be honest, I really didn’t like him to start, but he did grow on me, and I changed my mind. I loved Lucy and I really enjoyed watching the relationship evolve between her and Tomascz. This story has a well thought out plot, wonderful writing, and memorable characters, that will captivated you and leave you wanting more.
Sinner’s Kiss was a splendid read that drew me in, and kept me there. Tomascz was an intense character and to be honest, I really didn’t like him to start, but he did grow on me, and I changed my mind. I loved Lucy and I really enjoyed watching the relationship evolve between her and Tomascz. This story has a well thought out plot, wonderful writing, and memorable characters, that will captivated you and leave you wanting more.
Read
March 15, 2022My Review is for Broken Beauty
ARC received via Wildfire Marketing Solutions in exchange for a honest review.
The first thing about Broken Beauty to grab my attention was the cover. However, my decision to request a copy for review was due to it being a Beauty and the Beast retelling. A wonderful time was had with this interesting take on a well-loved fairytale.
New to me, author Catharina Mauer delivered a tale which hooked me from the very first page. It’s always nice discovering a new author and Mauer did not disappoint. I would definitely read more of her work.
This retelling of Beauty and the Beast introduces to Felix and Arabella. Felix is the ruler of the Kingdom Eldiria and a powerful sorcerer. Known as the Shadow Emperor. A powerful leader, feared by all. However, no-one outside his kingdom knew of his curse. A curse which forced him to live in the shadows bathed in inescapable darkness. A prophecy revealed that the key to breaking the curse lay in Arabella, princess of Althea.
The ruler of the kingdom of Althea, Arabelle’s father, banned magic. Because of the ban, the people of Althea treated Arabella like a pariah because of her magical powers. Her father despised her, so it came as no surprise when he readily agreed for her to marry the Shadow Emperor. Arabella, however, will not give without a fight.
Felix and Arabella were interesting characters. At first, I feared for Arabella, recognising she was walking into the unknown. After all, Felix was rumoured to be evil. But the thing with rumours is most time they are created out of fear. After getting to know Felix, I recognised the fears were for naught. A true alpha who was caring, smart, fearless, protective, powerful and a fair leader.
Despite the abuse Arabella suffered at her father’s hand, it didn’t break her. It only made her determine to forge her own part. However, with her marriage to Felix, this may be difficult. But what she saw as a fate worse than death proved to be her saving grace.
The relationship which developed between the protagonists warmed my heart. Under Felix’s tutelage, she learned to harness her magic, making her more powerful than she could imagine. The story delivered moments, which made me laugh, broke my heart and had me cheering for the characters. The scene that had me cheering the most involved Arabella standing up to her father. Wow! Just priceless. The world building fascinated me, and I enjoyed spending time in this magical world. It was interesting learning about the origin of the curse and the impact it had on both Felix and his kingdom.
Broken Beauty was a beautiful story that enthralled the reader with its magical and romantic moments. Fans of fairy tale retelling and stories set in a world where magic reigns will love what Mauer offers in Broken Beauty.
ARC received via Wildfire Marketing Solutions in exchange for a honest review.
The first thing about Broken Beauty to grab my attention was the cover. However, my decision to request a copy for review was due to it being a Beauty and the Beast retelling. A wonderful time was had with this interesting take on a well-loved fairytale.
New to me, author Catharina Mauer delivered a tale which hooked me from the very first page. It’s always nice discovering a new author and Mauer did not disappoint. I would definitely read more of her work.
This retelling of Beauty and the Beast introduces to Felix and Arabella. Felix is the ruler of the Kingdom Eldiria and a powerful sorcerer. Known as the Shadow Emperor. A powerful leader, feared by all. However, no-one outside his kingdom knew of his curse. A curse which forced him to live in the shadows bathed in inescapable darkness. A prophecy revealed that the key to breaking the curse lay in Arabella, princess of Althea.
The ruler of the kingdom of Althea, Arabelle’s father, banned magic. Because of the ban, the people of Althea treated Arabella like a pariah because of her magical powers. Her father despised her, so it came as no surprise when he readily agreed for her to marry the Shadow Emperor. Arabella, however, will not give without a fight.
Felix and Arabella were interesting characters. At first, I feared for Arabella, recognising she was walking into the unknown. After all, Felix was rumoured to be evil. But the thing with rumours is most time they are created out of fear. After getting to know Felix, I recognised the fears were for naught. A true alpha who was caring, smart, fearless, protective, powerful and a fair leader.
Despite the abuse Arabella suffered at her father’s hand, it didn’t break her. It only made her determine to forge her own part. However, with her marriage to Felix, this may be difficult. But what she saw as a fate worse than death proved to be her saving grace.
The relationship which developed between the protagonists warmed my heart. Under Felix’s tutelage, she learned to harness her magic, making her more powerful than she could imagine. The story delivered moments, which made me laugh, broke my heart and had me cheering for the characters. The scene that had me cheering the most involved Arabella standing up to her father. Wow! Just priceless. The world building fascinated me, and I enjoyed spending time in this magical world. It was interesting learning about the origin of the curse and the impact it had on both Felix and his kingdom.
Broken Beauty was a beautiful story that enthralled the reader with its magical and romantic moments. Fans of fairy tale retelling and stories set in a world where magic reigns will love what Mauer offers in Broken Beauty.
March 18, 2022
I received an arc for a honest review.
Sinner's Kiss - Alexandra Silva
Wow. Did I see that twist coming? No, I did not. Did I devour it? Yes, I did. Loved it!!!
Tomasz and Lucy were at each other's throat, fighting one another. The chemistry was off the chart. The suspense was real. Lucy was sent on a mission to get rid of Tomasz. But she was captured instead. She was held prisoner for two months and nothing happened. It will keep you at the edge of your seat and wondering what's going to happen next.
I have to say though, there were some parts that got me confuse. It can also be because I haven't read the other books in the series. Sinner's Kiss is a prequel to the Virtues and Lies Series. If you love dark romance, definitely pick it up!!
Sinner's Kiss - Alexandra Silva
Wow. Did I see that twist coming? No, I did not. Did I devour it? Yes, I did. Loved it!!!
Tomasz and Lucy were at each other's throat, fighting one another. The chemistry was off the chart. The suspense was real. Lucy was sent on a mission to get rid of Tomasz. But she was captured instead. She was held prisoner for two months and nothing happened. It will keep you at the edge of your seat and wondering what's going to happen next.
I have to say though, there were some parts that got me confuse. It can also be because I haven't read the other books in the series. Sinner's Kiss is a prequel to the Virtues and Lies Series. If you love dark romance, definitely pick it up!!
April 18, 2022
This is my review for “Of Snow So White”
Oh my gosh this book was freak’n amazing!! I freak’n loved it & couldn’t get enough.. So freak’n good.. I can’t wait to see what happens in the next one!!
I loved Gwyneira she’s strong, loving, caring , never gives up & just amazing ..
& don’t get me started on the Seven dwarfs
Dex, Byron, Ozias, Niko, Clay, Lars, & Roan …
you can’t help but to fall in love with them all .. their all different but amazing in their own way..
This book is a must read.. so so good you won’t be able to put it down.. 💕🖤
“This book was given to me in exchange for my honest review."
This is my review for “Sinners Kiss”
Oh my gosh!! I absolutely loved this book & just couldn’t get enough of Tomasz & Lucy … The chemistry between them is just everything 🥵🥵
This was such a great read & I look forward to reading more of Alexandra’s books!! So so good!! 💜🖤
“This book was given to me in exchange for my honest review."
Oh my gosh this book was freak’n amazing!! I freak’n loved it & couldn’t get enough.. So freak’n good.. I can’t wait to see what happens in the next one!!
I loved Gwyneira she’s strong, loving, caring , never gives up & just amazing ..
& don’t get me started on the Seven dwarfs
Dex, Byron, Ozias, Niko, Clay, Lars, & Roan …
you can’t help but to fall in love with them all .. their all different but amazing in their own way..
This book is a must read.. so so good you won’t be able to put it down.. 💕🖤
“This book was given to me in exchange for my honest review."
This is my review for “Sinners Kiss”
Oh my gosh!! I absolutely loved this book & just couldn’t get enough of Tomasz & Lucy … The chemistry between them is just everything 🥵🥵
This was such a great read & I look forward to reading more of Alexandra’s books!! So so good!! 💜🖤
“This book was given to me in exchange for my honest review."
March 5, 2022
This review is for The Ties We Break by Emma Luna, one of the stories that will be featured in this anthology. I devoured Emma's contribution & can't wait to read the other authors contributions later this month when released. The Ties We Break was absolutely amazing and drew me in from the start. I respect Belle for pushing outside of her comfort zone in order to be able to make her dreams come true. Declan reminds me a bit of a dark teddy bear, something tells me hes not as a bad as he portrays himself. I can't wait to know how Belles and Declans story will continue, be warned this one does end with a bit of a cliffhanger and dive into the other stories as if they are half as good as this one, it will be amazing read. I highly recommend putting this on your TBR list this month
March 3, 2022
The Ties We Break by Emma Luna review:
The Ties We Break is an intriguingly steamy retelling of Beauty and the Beast! Belle and Declan are complete opposites but the attraction toward one another is instant. This is definitely a book that can draw out one’s wild side. There is so much to each of them and we still even have more to learn about Declan and Belle. I connected with Belle so much! It was like most of my life was being described. Emma Luna definitely wrote this for all the girls/women with the book boyfriends!
I am excited to learn more of Declan’s background as well as seeing Belle become more confident in herself! This is definitely a read to dive right into! I’m intrigued for more to come from these two!
The Ties We Break is an intriguingly steamy retelling of Beauty and the Beast! Belle and Declan are complete opposites but the attraction toward one another is instant. This is definitely a book that can draw out one’s wild side. There is so much to each of them and we still even have more to learn about Declan and Belle. I connected with Belle so much! It was like most of my life was being described. Emma Luna definitely wrote this for all the girls/women with the book boyfriends!
I am excited to learn more of Declan’s background as well as seeing Belle become more confident in herself! This is definitely a read to dive right into! I’m intrigued for more to come from these two!
March 15, 2022
Twisted Debt by Xavier Neal
Oh my goodness!! I have a hate, tolerate, love relationship with Elias. Zel is thrown into a contract to pay off her dad’s debt and the heat factor is sky high from the start. Throw in some kinky fun, some Yes sirs and some intensity and it makes for a great quick read that will keep the pages turning!
I received a copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
Oh my goodness!! I have a hate, tolerate, love relationship with Elias. Zel is thrown into a contract to pay off her dad’s debt and the heat factor is sky high from the start. Throw in some kinky fun, some Yes sirs and some intensity and it makes for a great quick read that will keep the pages turning!
I received a copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
March 15, 2022
I have read The Outcast, a book by Taya Rune in the Once Upon A Broken Crown Boxset.
This story was very interesting to read. It's had a lot of twists and turns, lots of things happening. It is well written and has a good storyline. The characters were very interesting to read about. It's a page turner. It kept my interest.
This story was very interesting to read. It's had a lot of twists and turns, lots of things happening. It is well written and has a good storyline. The characters were very interesting to read about. It's a page turner. It kept my interest.
October 9, 2022
This review is for Beautiful Beast by Olivia Peters
Adam and Belll's story follows the idea of Beauty and the Beast and is a beautiful fairy tale that will have your heart beating a little faster. Although I say this is like a fairy tale, this is not your child's fairy tale as Olivia gives you a spicy filled one.
Adam is an intriguing man that does not want the world to see him so keeps himself hidden. When Bell walks into his life he is thrown by this beautiful and outgoing woman that will not leave him alone. Why will she not leave him alone?
Bell is trying to fit into a place and lifestyle that she is so far removed from that she feels out of her element. When she comes across Adam he is someone that she wants to know more about. The harder he pushes her away the harder she fights to be with him.
I loved the twist that Olivia out on Beauty and the Beast. You will want a good chink of time to read this one because I know I couldn't put it down.
Adam and Belll's story follows the idea of Beauty and the Beast and is a beautiful fairy tale that will have your heart beating a little faster. Although I say this is like a fairy tale, this is not your child's fairy tale as Olivia gives you a spicy filled one.
Adam is an intriguing man that does not want the world to see him so keeps himself hidden. When Bell walks into his life he is thrown by this beautiful and outgoing woman that will not leave him alone. Why will she not leave him alone?
Bell is trying to fit into a place and lifestyle that she is so far removed from that she feels out of her element. When she comes across Adam he is someone that she wants to know more about. The harder he pushes her away the harder she fights to be with him.
I loved the twist that Olivia out on Beauty and the Beast. You will want a good chink of time to read this one because I know I couldn't put it down.
February 23, 2022
This was an excellent modern take on Beauty and the Beast. Adam and Belle were wonderful together. Neither one had a good childhood but their reaction to it is very different. Adam joins the military and becomes a jaded and hard protector and Belle is a ray of sunshine looking for the best in others. Adam came back from a mission with his face and soul scarred and Belle happens to be his new neighbor. She is persistent and breaks down his walls and makes him fall in love with her despite his fears. He doesn’t think he is good enough for her and is concerned that he will hurt her because of his PTSD. Olivia makes us feel their pain, insecurity and love as they navigate through to their HEA.
I received a free copy of this book via BookFunnel and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via BookFunnel and am voluntarily leaving a review.
March 11, 2022
Beautiful Beast by Olivia Peters
Who doesn’t love Beauty and the Beast?! Adam and Belle’s story will make you fall in love all over again with their fairytale. This is definitely the more adult retelling version because the scenes will blow your kindle up. This book will give you all the feels. It’s unputdownable! I was captured from the very beginning and held captive til the end.
Merged review:
Beautiful Beast by Olivia Peters Who doesn’t love Beauty and the Beast?! Adam and Belle’s story will make you fall in love all over again with their fairytale. This is definitely the more adult retelling version because the scenes will blow your kindle up. This book will give you all the feels. It’s unputdownable! I was captured from the very beginning and held captive til the end.
Who doesn’t love Beauty and the Beast?! Adam and Belle’s story will make you fall in love all over again with their fairytale. This is definitely the more adult retelling version because the scenes will blow your kindle up. This book will give you all the feels. It’s unputdownable! I was captured from the very beginning and held captive til the end.
Merged review:
Beautiful Beast by Olivia Peters Who doesn’t love Beauty and the Beast?! Adam and Belle’s story will make you fall in love all over again with their fairytale. This is definitely the more adult retelling version because the scenes will blow your kindle up. This book will give you all the feels. It’s unputdownable! I was captured from the very beginning and held captive til the end.
March 13, 2022
This was such an awesome steamy book! I loved stories based on Beauty and the Beast and this one was no disappointment! Belle and Adam have so much to work on but they are both willing to put in the work. Until Adam gets scared. It gets all too real for him and pushes Belle away. She is a strong woman though. Both have have terrible childhoods so there is quite a bit for them to work through.
I absolutely loved this book! This author is quickly becoming a one-click favorite!
I absolutely loved this book! This author is quickly becoming a one-click favorite!
March 4, 2022
I loved this book. It was so addicting. You wanted to read more and find out more about Adam and his past and if he could have a future with Belle. Their love story was so beautiful but it was also heartbreaking at times. I loved all the tiny details showing it’s a retelling of Beauty and the Beast. Pick up this book and read it. I promise you won’t be disappointed.
March 18, 2022
Oh Adam!! His internal struggles were hard to read. You could feel his pain and strife jump off the pages. Watching him overcome his issues with the help of the most persistent Bell made for a fantastic story. Throw in some really hot sex, some tense moments, and some goofy hilarious friends, and this is one complete-can't put down story! Well done Olivia!
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