What do you think?
Rate this book
Princess Gemma has been trapped for years within a magical turret, a fate she deems fitting for a sickly princess with little purpose. The enchanted walls offer security, which she'd do anything to maintain, for though she knows she should want to escape, her prison seems far safer than the outside world. But the magic of the tower has begun to fade, bringing with it not only unpredictable dangers but the very real possibility that soon Gemma will be forced to leave the prison she's grown to trust.
The tower's shifting magic isn't the only thing changing, for the longer Gemma spends with her faithful guard, Quinn, the more she realizes that her feelings for him are inappropriate for one of her royal status. But the deeper her feelings for her guard grow, the more Gemma yearns not only to escape the tower in order to see more of the world beyond, but to break through the walls she's built around herself.
But even if she finds the courage to fight for the life she wants—one filled with possibilities far more beautiful than she's ever allowed herself to imagine—there's one final obstacle for her to overcome...for she's not the only one who has created walls. Though she's striving to lower hers in order to allow her guard in, Quinn is determined to protect her from his devastating secret by keeping her out.
Inspired by Rapunzel
The tower's shifting magic isn't the only thing changing, for the longer Gemma spends with her faithful guard, Quinn, the more she realizes that her feelings for him are inappropriate for one of her royal status. But the deeper her feelings for her guard grow, the more Gemma yearns not only to escape the tower in order to see more of the world beyond, but to break through the walls she's built around herself.
But even if she finds the courage to fight for the life she wants—one filled with possibilities far more beautiful than she's ever allowed herself to imagine—there's one final obstacle for her to overcome...for she's not the only one who has created walls. Though she's striving to lower hers in order to allow her guard in, Quinn is determined to protect her from his devastating secret by keeping her out.
Inspired by Rapunzel
340 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 21, 2021
67 people are currently reading
556 people want to read
About the author
Camille Peters
35 books562 followersCamille Peters was born and raised in Salt Lake City, Utah where she grew up surrounded by books. As a child, she spent every spare moment reading and writing her own stories on every scrap of paper she could find. Becoming an author was always more than a childhood dream; it was a certainty.
Her love of writing grew alongside her as she took local writing classes in her teens, spent a year studying Creative Writing at the English University of Northampton, and graduated from the University of Utah with a degree in English and History. She’s now blessed to be a full-time author.
When she’s not writing she’s thinking about writing, and when’s she’s not thinking about writing she’s…alright, she’s always thinking about writing, but she can also be found reading, at the piano, playing board games with her family and friends, or taking long, bare-foot walks as she lives inside her imagination and brainstorms more tales.
Her love of writing grew alongside her as she took local writing classes in her teens, spent a year studying Creative Writing at the English University of Northampton, and graduated from the University of Utah with a degree in English and History. She’s now blessed to be a full-time author.
When she’s not writing she’s thinking about writing, and when’s she’s not thinking about writing she’s…alright, she’s always thinking about writing, but she can also be found reading, at the piano, playing board games with her family and friends, or taking long, bare-foot walks as she lives inside her imagination and brainstorms more tales.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 75 reviews
Read
October 5, 2021Though I knew the general premise of this story for years, I felt there was something missing and it took me a long time to find it. But once I did the entire story took shape and I’m so happy with how it turned out, despite it having a different feel than my other books. I hope reading it not only brings magic to your day, but I hope that its message resonates with those who are struggling with parts of their life they feel are broken, and that Gemma and Quinn’s journey helps you learn to see the beauty and joy still to be found as well as gives you the strength you need to continue forward, no matter your difficulties.
December 10, 2021
This book might just be the best thing this author has ever written! Wow! There was one part that was so emotionally moving that I was crying, and it takes a lot to make me cry in a book ESPECIALLY over a moment that wasn't a literal death. Though I guess it was a figurative death.
This is a great twist on Rapunzel (with a hint of that fairy tale where the girl is locked in a tower for seven years. I'm blanking on the name).
Gemma is a great character! It is so rare to see a main character in a fantasy book that suffers from continued illness.
I also loved that the author didn't take the easy route of a magical cure for the ailments (both hers and his) in the book. Yes, magic helps make it easier on both of them (kind of like modern medicine can help), but neither of them is completely cured. It made the book so much stronger because of it!
This is a great twist on Rapunzel (with a hint of that fairy tale where the girl is locked in a tower for seven years. I'm blanking on the name).
Gemma is a great character! It is so rare to see a main character in a fantasy book that suffers from continued illness.
I also loved that the author didn't take the easy route of a magical cure for the ailments (both hers and his) in the book. Yes, magic helps make it easier on both of them (kind of like modern medicine can help), but neither of them is completely cured. It made the book so much stronger because of it!
November 20, 2021
My heart is completely full after finishing this beautiful story! This is one of the sweetest, purest love stories and I’m utterly in love with it! But it’s even more than a beautiful love story too. It’s about a girl overcoming her fears and escaping not only the actual tower keeping her imprisoned but also the walls inside her mind.
I’ve always loved the story of Rapunzel ever since watching and loving Tangled (my favorite movie!) I was so, so excited to read Camille Peter’s retelling of the tale and I was not disappointed at all. If anything, it exceeded my expectations by far!
I loved this book so much! Also, the cover is gorgeous.😍
The characters captured my hearts from the very beginning.
Gemma was such a beautifully unique version of Rapunzel. Gemma has always been the sickly princess who everyone sees as weak, including herself. But within these pages, she learns to rise above that perception of herself and realize she is more than that.
Gemma’s journey and development throughout this book was so beautiful. I loved her character. She had so much inner-strength and determination that I admired so much!
Quinn stole my heart completely. He was one of the sweetest heroes I’ve read in a long while. He tenderness, loyalty, and love for Gemma was so, so sweet. My heart broke for him. But his strength and how he dealt with his own misfortunes was inspiring.
I also felt so sorry for Melina while I also admired her for her attitude. I can’t imagine how it would be in that situation!
I haven’t read her siblings stories yet but reading this one made me want to.
Her mother was quite the villain with all of the controlling, Mother Gothel vibes. She made me furious so I was relieved when she didn’t show up in the story as much.
Like I said before, the love story in this book was absolutely beautiful. It was just pure and lovely. It was clean, sweet, and slow-burn. I adored it!
Oh, and the writing was so, so beautiful! The descriptions were so vividly and beautifully written. The descriptions of autumn was atmospheric.
I found myself tearing up a few times in this book which I wasn’t quite expecting. It touched me in such a way! My heart broke a few times but it was all mended with an ending that made me so, so happy.
I’m conclusion, I have to say this is now one of my top favorite fairytale retellings I’ve ever read. I couldn’t put it down. There was always suspense of how these characters would escape the tower that seemed impossible to escape.
It was the perfect read for autumn as well.
If you love fairytales, if you love fantasy, and you love the story of Rapunzel, I highly recommend Turret! It was beautiful and now one of my favorites.
*Thank you to the author for an eARC. All opinions are my own. 😊
I’ve always loved the story of Rapunzel ever since watching and loving Tangled (my favorite movie!) I was so, so excited to read Camille Peter’s retelling of the tale and I was not disappointed at all. If anything, it exceeded my expectations by far!
I loved this book so much! Also, the cover is gorgeous.😍
The characters captured my hearts from the very beginning.
Gemma was such a beautifully unique version of Rapunzel. Gemma has always been the sickly princess who everyone sees as weak, including herself. But within these pages, she learns to rise above that perception of herself and realize she is more than that.
Gemma’s journey and development throughout this book was so beautiful. I loved her character. She had so much inner-strength and determination that I admired so much!
Quinn stole my heart completely. He was one of the sweetest heroes I’ve read in a long while. He tenderness, loyalty, and love for Gemma was so, so sweet. My heart broke for him. But his strength and how he dealt with his own misfortunes was inspiring.
I also felt so sorry for Melina while I also admired her for her attitude. I can’t imagine how it would be in that situation!
I haven’t read her siblings stories yet but reading this one made me want to.
Her mother was quite the villain with all of the controlling, Mother Gothel vibes. She made me furious so I was relieved when she didn’t show up in the story as much.
Like I said before, the love story in this book was absolutely beautiful. It was just pure and lovely. It was clean, sweet, and slow-burn. I adored it!
Oh, and the writing was so, so beautiful! The descriptions were so vividly and beautifully written. The descriptions of autumn was atmospheric.
I found myself tearing up a few times in this book which I wasn’t quite expecting. It touched me in such a way! My heart broke a few times but it was all mended with an ending that made me so, so happy.
I’m conclusion, I have to say this is now one of my top favorite fairytale retellings I’ve ever read. I couldn’t put it down. There was always suspense of how these characters would escape the tower that seemed impossible to escape.
It was the perfect read for autumn as well.
If you love fairytales, if you love fantasy, and you love the story of Rapunzel, I highly recommend Turret! It was beautiful and now one of my favorites.
*Thank you to the author for an eARC. All opinions are my own. 😊
Want to read
December 29, 2023hi i'm here for flynn rider 💳
October 9, 2021
Ohhh this book is one of my favorites in the Kingdom Chronicles!!! Gemma’s story is the ultimate example of adapting to life’s challenges, and being happy despite them. This story is true to life with there being moments of disappointment and loss of hope. But it also shows us that we can overcome those moments, and live a happy life, despite life circumstances we can’t control.
I loved the unique twist of the woman being more forward, and helping her hero recognize his worth! Gemma is a go getter, and is the one to show Quinn that he is worth loving and living a life with. it is the sweetest! The magical tower setting was so much fun, and I absolutely loved getting to see characters from past stories again!
I took away so much from Gemma’s story. Her optimism, love for life, and purpose gives me a desire to live my own life with more purpose!
I loved the unique twist of the woman being more forward, and helping her hero recognize his worth! Gemma is a go getter, and is the one to show Quinn that he is worth loving and living a life with. it is the sweetest! The magical tower setting was so much fun, and I absolutely loved getting to see characters from past stories again!
I took away so much from Gemma’s story. Her optimism, love for life, and purpose gives me a desire to live my own life with more purpose!
November 28, 2021
There is something just so delightful when you pick up a long awaited book and are able to dive in and enjoy your time with the characters and setting and plot. Turret definitely was that way for me. I've come to love the characters in this series, The Kingdom Chronicles, but especially the characters in the Malvagarian Kingdom. I've loved these siblings and their stories from being cursed and trying to overcome their curses. I've loved seeing how what appears to be in their relationships is not always so and how that all plays into their different books.
Princess Gemma has been locked in a tower by her mother. But her struggles and feeling locked away from life started long ago and it has crushed her confidence in herself. And being locked away has definitely not helped any building up of her confidence.
But oh how I loved her character. I loved how the author developed her and showed her struggles, inner and physical, and showed how the love and confidence of others can truly help bring self-confidence.
And Quinn. Oh my!!! I just adored him so much. What a wonderful character. His goodness and commitment to protecting Gemma was such a strong immovable force. His reasons behind it and just everything about him had me smiling. Of course you have to read the whole book to discover more and more about him.
The way both Gemma and Quinn's stories were woven together and their backstories and personal histories were revealed was so much fun. I loved when they were together in a scene and was constantly looking forward to more and more of them together. They had their struggles for sure and good reasons for some of their purposes (I'm being vague because no spoilers) but it all made sense and came together so well.
And the tower...AMAZING!!! I want to tell you all these different things about the tower but I won't. You need to read and discover all of the many aspects that made this story so much fun and touching. It was beautiful!!! Now I'm waiting for Nolan's story. It's going to be great!!!
Content: Clean.
I received a copy from the author through StoryOrigin. All thoughts and opinions in the review are my own.
Happy Reading!!!
Princess Gemma has been locked in a tower by her mother. But her struggles and feeling locked away from life started long ago and it has crushed her confidence in herself. And being locked away has definitely not helped any building up of her confidence.
But oh how I loved her character. I loved how the author developed her and showed her struggles, inner and physical, and showed how the love and confidence of others can truly help bring self-confidence.
And Quinn. Oh my!!! I just adored him so much. What a wonderful character. His goodness and commitment to protecting Gemma was such a strong immovable force. His reasons behind it and just everything about him had me smiling. Of course you have to read the whole book to discover more and more about him.
The way both Gemma and Quinn's stories were woven together and their backstories and personal histories were revealed was so much fun. I loved when they were together in a scene and was constantly looking forward to more and more of them together. They had their struggles for sure and good reasons for some of their purposes (I'm being vague because no spoilers) but it all made sense and came together so well.
And the tower...AMAZING!!! I want to tell you all these different things about the tower but I won't. You need to read and discover all of the many aspects that made this story so much fun and touching. It was beautiful!!! Now I'm waiting for Nolan's story. It's going to be great!!!
Content: Clean.
I received a copy from the author through StoryOrigin. All thoughts and opinions in the review are my own.
Happy Reading!!!
March 24, 2022
If your looking for a sweet friends to lovers fairytale romance with compelling characters and endearing magical places😉 with a dash of intrigue, this is the book for you.
I had the amazing privilege of beta reading Turret for Camille. It was such a delight! As she has with each of her books, Camille put a unique spin on the beloved tale of Rapunzel 💖.
Gemma is trapped in a magical tower that you will just adore. (Who knew you could love a tower?!) Except something is wrong, and the tower that has protected her for years is losing power. Having been the sickly princess her whole life, Gemma feels both helpless and terrified of having to leave the tower.
Thankfully her sweet and trusty Guard, Quinn has been with her this whole time. As time passes she begins to realize that maybe he can be more to her than just a friend. Except he has his own struggles he is trying to hide from her.
I loved the themes of finding joy amidst the struggles and watching Gemma find her own passion and power 🥰! Not to mention the cameos of all her siblings and so much more!
This book is apart of the Kingdom Chronicles but can be read out of order (Although I wouldn't be surprised if you decided to read more after finishing this one 😉). Personally, I look forward to reading it again😁!
I had the amazing privilege of beta reading Turret for Camille. It was such a delight! As she has with each of her books, Camille put a unique spin on the beloved tale of Rapunzel 💖.
Gemma is trapped in a magical tower that you will just adore. (Who knew you could love a tower?!) Except something is wrong, and the tower that has protected her for years is losing power. Having been the sickly princess her whole life, Gemma feels both helpless and terrified of having to leave the tower.
Thankfully her sweet and trusty Guard, Quinn has been with her this whole time. As time passes she begins to realize that maybe he can be more to her than just a friend. Except he has his own struggles he is trying to hide from her.
I loved the themes of finding joy amidst the struggles and watching Gemma find her own passion and power 🥰! Not to mention the cameos of all her siblings and so much more!
This book is apart of the Kingdom Chronicles but can be read out of order (Although I wouldn't be surprised if you decided to read more after finishing this one 😉). Personally, I look forward to reading it again😁!
June 26, 2023
“No, Gemma,” he said gently. “Sometimes in life, things remain broken.”
It took me forever to write and post this review because I’m afraid I don’t know how to put into words what this book means to me or how I read it at just the right time or how these characters and their struggles impacted me so much I was tearing up all the time while reading and pretty much cried at the end which NEVER happens to me with books anymore. It spoke to my heart and the broken pieces inside me and I am forever grateful the author wrote and shared this book with the world so I could read it and find strength and courage in these pages and characters.
This is a quiet book that digs deep into brokenness and healing in such a beautiful yet heartbreaking way. I felt for Gemma so much and even though our “illnesses” aren’t at all the same I understood her frustration with being weak and unable to do what everyone else can only to feel joy as she found her passion and purpose in life, in finding people who see her beyond what she can’t do and love her for who she truly is. And though I can’t say much about Quinn’s struggles due to spoilers he was so real and honest about what he struggled with and how he saw and loved Gemma for who she was rather then what she could or could not do, and I love him for that and so much more.
The brokenness in this book was so real yet healing, and I love how characters’ illnesses and weaknesses weren’t magically healed like they might have been in some books but they had to learn to live with them, showing me that it’s okay to be broken, that there’s beauty and purpose in that and how while sometimes we can’t be completely healed or fixed we can learn to live with grace and love in that, that our lives are not over because of it, just different.
I love this book so much I immediately bought a copy which I rarely do so quickly. I’m not sure I’ve properly written what this book did for me. I’m not even sure I can, but I hope I did at least a little because this book means so much to me and is now one of my all time favorites.
‼️Content‼️
TRIGGER WARNING: it’s mentioned a couple times that a couple has problems with pregnancy and miscarriages (nothing shown, only mentioned)
Violence: a character cuts their finger with a knife; injures and blood (not detailed); a character falls off broken stairs and breaks their leg; a character tries to attack another with magic
Sexual: kissing (not detailed); it’s mentioned a couple times that a couple has problems with pregnancy and miscarriages (nothing shown, only mentioned)
Other: magic; magical powers, objects, and a tower; death and grief; a mother is verbally and emotionally abusive; a character’s family abandons them; a person is trapped in a mirror; a woman cursed her own children
It took me forever to write and post this review because I’m afraid I don’t know how to put into words what this book means to me or how I read it at just the right time or how these characters and their struggles impacted me so much I was tearing up all the time while reading and pretty much cried at the end which NEVER happens to me with books anymore. It spoke to my heart and the broken pieces inside me and I am forever grateful the author wrote and shared this book with the world so I could read it and find strength and courage in these pages and characters.
This is a quiet book that digs deep into brokenness and healing in such a beautiful yet heartbreaking way. I felt for Gemma so much and even though our “illnesses” aren’t at all the same I understood her frustration with being weak and unable to do what everyone else can only to feel joy as she found her passion and purpose in life, in finding people who see her beyond what she can’t do and love her for who she truly is. And though I can’t say much about Quinn’s struggles due to spoilers he was so real and honest about what he struggled with and how he saw and loved Gemma for who she was rather then what she could or could not do, and I love him for that and so much more.
The brokenness in this book was so real yet healing, and I love how characters’ illnesses and weaknesses weren’t magically healed like they might have been in some books but they had to learn to live with them, showing me that it’s okay to be broken, that there’s beauty and purpose in that and how while sometimes we can’t be completely healed or fixed we can learn to live with grace and love in that, that our lives are not over because of it, just different.
I love this book so much I immediately bought a copy which I rarely do so quickly. I’m not sure I’ve properly written what this book did for me. I’m not even sure I can, but I hope I did at least a little because this book means so much to me and is now one of my all time favorites.
‼️Content‼️
TRIGGER WARNING: it’s mentioned a couple times that a couple has problems with pregnancy and miscarriages (nothing shown, only mentioned)
Violence: a character cuts their finger with a knife; injures and blood (not detailed); a character falls off broken stairs and breaks their leg; a character tries to attack another with magic
Sexual: kissing (not detailed); it’s mentioned a couple times that a couple has problems with pregnancy and miscarriages (nothing shown, only mentioned)
Other: magic; magical powers, objects, and a tower; death and grief; a mother is verbally and emotionally abusive; a character’s family abandons them; a person is trapped in a mirror; a woman cursed her own children
January 1, 2022
I was really excited about this book because a) Camille Peters wrote it, b) this was Gemma’s story and I wanted to know about the last sibling.
Honestly I didn't finish this book. I actually barely started it but that was only because Gemma's illness was the whole story and I just couldn't get through that (personal trigger). The writing and the story in general are very sweet and I don't see why anyone else wouldn't want to read it.
Drake: Reflection
Briar: Enchantment
Reve: Awaken
Enchantment and Awaken were my favorites of the siblings and that is saying something since Sleeping Beauty is my favorite Disney princess.
This book wasn't as good as Enchantment and Awaken. I would probably say it was about as good as Reflection. However, I did love the premise!
No matter what we can be great and do great things whether we have setbacks like health challenges or not.
Trigger Warning: I had hoped that her illness would be downplayed but it wasn't. The whole story was wrapped around her being sick.
I received an ARC and am leaving a review.
Honestly I didn't finish this book. I actually barely started it but that was only because Gemma's illness was the whole story and I just couldn't get through that (personal trigger). The writing and the story in general are very sweet and I don't see why anyone else wouldn't want to read it.
Drake: Reflection
Briar: Enchantment
Reve: Awaken
Enchantment and Awaken were my favorites of the siblings and that is saying something since Sleeping Beauty is my favorite Disney princess.
This book wasn't as good as Enchantment and Awaken. I would probably say it was about as good as Reflection. However, I did love the premise!
No matter what we can be great and do great things whether we have setbacks like health challenges or not.
Trigger Warning: I had hoped that her illness would be downplayed but it wasn't. The whole story was wrapped around her being sick.
I received an ARC and am leaving a review.
November 28, 2021
Beautiful rendition of Rapunzel. We finally have the final Malvagarian Royal's story! I love this conclusion to the Malgavarian royal family that we’ve followed for 4 books now! Gemma and Quinn had great character development, and both undergo a personal struggle to figure out who they are and what they want from their futures. They feel real which is something I have long appreciated from Peters' books. Camille Peters is a master of bringing ordinary places to life in a magical way, and this tower is no different. Its interactions with Gemma endeared it to me, and I hope it makes a cameo in a future book.
The one thing I am curious about is the end of the story. Nonetheless, I still loved reading this story and look forward to the next one!
*I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.*
The one thing I am curious about is the end of the story. Nonetheless, I still loved reading this story and look forward to the next one!
*I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.*
November 26, 2021
So happy to finally get a conclusion to Gemma's story!
I was incredibly frustrated while reading, and I almost rage quit this a few times because of how disability was being handled and the direction I thought the story was going.
Camille Peters pleasantly surprised me though. She approached the issue very thoughtfully and ultimately I'm happy with the way things turned out.
Side note: everyone who loves fairy tales should look up disability representation in fairy tales and why common tropes related to disability are so problematic.
I was incredibly frustrated while reading, and I almost rage quit this a few times because of how disability was being handled and the direction I thought the story was going.
Camille Peters pleasantly surprised me though. She approached the issue very thoughtfully and ultimately I'm happy with the way things turned out.
Side note: everyone who loves fairy tales should look up disability representation in fairy tales and why common tropes related to disability are so problematic.
June 19, 2024
4.3 stars. Let’s start out with the fact that I love the movie Tangled! This book was so good and I love how this was written! This book is one of the best in the series! I can’t wait for the next one!
December 12, 2021
not the best in the series
Usually I DEVOUR these books, but this was hard to get into. Drug a bit too. Good read, but not the best in the series
Usually I DEVOUR these books, but this was hard to get into. Drug a bit too. Good read, but not the best in the series
November 21, 2021
4. 5 stars
I have been waiting for the next book in Camille Peter’s Kingdom Chronicle series and Turret does not disappoint. It was sweet and cute! I am so glad that we finally get to read Gemma’s book and see the royal family again. This was a great book and a wonderful addition to the series.
Gemma was an interesting character to read about. She had been labeled as sick and weak all of her life, and she was learning how to stand up for herself. She was stuck in a tower with only her guard and handmaid. Yet there were times when she enjoyed the isolation of her tower because she believed it kept her safe. It was cool to read about Gemma as she learned to fight for herself and to realize that she was stronger than she knew. Gemma had to learn how to be brave and take steps of faith even when it was hard. As the book grew on, I started to like Gemma more and more. She was a character learning what it meant to be strong and to love.
Quinn was the sweetest. I adored his devotion to Gemma and how he wanted what was best for her. I really liked Quinn, and I so wanted him to find his happy ending. I loved reading about him interacting with Gemma. He truly loved her. However, Quinn had to learn to deal with his own obstacles and learn how to trust Gemma. He had to learn that Gemma was stronger than even he knew and how to keep on encouraging her.
Gemma and Quinn were super cute together, and this was such a fun retelling. I thought that the tower was such a cool “character.” It was definitely interesting to read this twist on Rapunzel. I always love Peter’s retelling and how she makes these fairytales her own. I was very interested in seeing how Gemma and Quinn would get their happy ending and how everything would work out in the end.
I totally enjoyed Turret, and I would definitely recommend it! The characters felt real and the storyline was intriguing. I also really liked how Gemma and Quinn were learning more about themselves and how to overcome their insecurities.Turret is a great book! I would recommend it to teens 13 and up. It is a clean fairytale inspired retelling of Rapunzel romance.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author. All views expressed are only my honest opinion, I was not required to write a positive review.
I have been waiting for the next book in Camille Peter’s Kingdom Chronicle series and Turret does not disappoint. It was sweet and cute! I am so glad that we finally get to read Gemma’s book and see the royal family again. This was a great book and a wonderful addition to the series.
Gemma was an interesting character to read about. She had been labeled as sick and weak all of her life, and she was learning how to stand up for herself. She was stuck in a tower with only her guard and handmaid. Yet there were times when she enjoyed the isolation of her tower because she believed it kept her safe. It was cool to read about Gemma as she learned to fight for herself and to realize that she was stronger than she knew. Gemma had to learn how to be brave and take steps of faith even when it was hard. As the book grew on, I started to like Gemma more and more. She was a character learning what it meant to be strong and to love.
Quinn was the sweetest. I adored his devotion to Gemma and how he wanted what was best for her. I really liked Quinn, and I so wanted him to find his happy ending. I loved reading about him interacting with Gemma. He truly loved her. However, Quinn had to learn to deal with his own obstacles and learn how to trust Gemma. He had to learn that Gemma was stronger than even he knew and how to keep on encouraging her.
Gemma and Quinn were super cute together, and this was such a fun retelling. I thought that the tower was such a cool “character.” It was definitely interesting to read this twist on Rapunzel. I always love Peter’s retelling and how she makes these fairytales her own. I was very interested in seeing how Gemma and Quinn would get their happy ending and how everything would work out in the end.
I totally enjoyed Turret, and I would definitely recommend it! The characters felt real and the storyline was intriguing. I also really liked how Gemma and Quinn were learning more about themselves and how to overcome their insecurities.Turret is a great book! I would recommend it to teens 13 and up. It is a clean fairytale inspired retelling of Rapunzel romance.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author. All views expressed are only my honest opinion, I was not required to write a positive review.
August 19, 2022
What a lovely retelling of Rapunzel! Turret definitely rates as one of my top favorite renditions of the girl in the tower. Once again Camille Peters has woven her magic through the old fairytale and brought it to life in an utterly delightful and charming tale that is both new and timeless...
December 23, 2021
This book was endearing, but there was not a lot of conflict. in a way it was really nice, love triangles get messy and most of the time leave you with a sour taste. I liked Gemma's growth in the book. She went from a typical "princess" to someone more. I liked that she found a hobby and purpose in life. I think its wonderful that Peters added this facet to the book. So many seem to wonder with no purpose and life is better with one. Between all the facets of this book I would highly recommend reading it. Thank you for an ARC in exchange for a fair review. These opinions are my own.
November 27, 2025
I've been waiting, I've been waiting, I've been waiting!
I love the story of Rapunzel, so I waited impatiently for this book. And I think it was worth it!
Maybe Gemma's story is not my favourite - my heart was stolen by the third volume with Anwen's story - but I am still captivated by this world, history and heroes. I think this Rapunzel's retelling is one of the best I have read im my whole life, and it is also full of warmth, cute and wonderful characters.
The whole story is steeped in the struggle with the fear that we all feel. Gemma feels him much more, but throughout the book she faces it and fights for a better life for herself and the people she loves with all her heart. I believe that if you love the previous volumes, this one will also win your hearts. Especially the end of the book that kept mine warm.
Now I'm waiting for Nolan's story and I hope it won't let me down!
I love the story of Rapunzel, so I waited impatiently for this book. And I think it was worth it!
Maybe Gemma's story is not my favourite - my heart was stolen by the third volume with Anwen's story - but I am still captivated by this world, history and heroes. I think this Rapunzel's retelling is one of the best I have read im my whole life, and it is also full of warmth, cute and wonderful characters.
The whole story is steeped in the struggle with the fear that we all feel. Gemma feels him much more, but throughout the book she faces it and fights for a better life for herself and the people she loves with all her heart. I believe that if you love the previous volumes, this one will also win your hearts. Especially the end of the book that kept mine warm.
Now I'm waiting for Nolan's story and I hope it won't let me down!
January 14, 2025
This was a really sweet story! I love Gemma. Quinn is so sweet, too. Their relationship was well-written.
Though this retelling is unique, it is also fun to connect the dots and see the nods to the original story. The tower was such an interesting addition to this book and I loved it. It was interesting seeing the part that it played and all the details of it.
And, as always, I honestly feel so much joy seeing the previous characters in the series! I just love this series. And I must say, I am patiently (or trying to be... XD) awaiting Transformation (Nolan's story)!!!
Read: January 2022
Reread: December 2022
Though this retelling is unique, it is also fun to connect the dots and see the nods to the original story. The tower was such an interesting addition to this book and I loved it. It was interesting seeing the part that it played and all the details of it.
And, as always, I honestly feel so much joy seeing the previous characters in the series! I just love this series. And I must say, I am patiently (or trying to be... XD) awaiting Transformation (Nolan's story)!!!
Read: January 2022
Reread: December 2022
February 24, 2022
Rather slow, took me forever to push through unfortunately. If I weren't pressed to move some books off of my "currently reading" list I might have given up on it. I didn't really relate to any of the characters and while it was happily ever after, as expected, I just didn't really care about the journey they took to get there.
January 5, 2022
Of all the books in this series, I connected with this heroine the least. I found the book slow as you're stuck in the mindset of a character who is always doubting herself and a bit co-dependent. I liked the ending, but I don't think I'd read this book a second time.
November 28, 2021
It's oddly fitting that my last post before moving from my cramped tower into a spacious castle is about an adaptation of "Rapunzel." Turret is the latest book in Camille Peters' Kingdom Chronicles, a series that has improved exponentially since its humble beginnings. Like the other books in this series, Turret places the love story first and foremost with everything else as a subplot or setting. Fortunately, the setting is interesting enough to carry it along whenever the romance needs a breather. The princess in this version of "Rapunzel" does not possess the iconic magical hair that most adaptations do (except the Barbie movie), but there is still plenty of magic to behold within the walls of the tower.
Turret is technically a retelling of "Rapunzel," but I think it is actually a better version of "Beauty and the Beast" than Enchantment, the other "Beauty and the Beast" adaptation from this series. Like Enchantment, Turret portrays a princess named Gemma who is trapped in a magical castle with someone she has budding feelings toward. It's not a literal interpretation of "Rapunzel" since her captor does not live in the tower with her. Instead, her mother banished her from her own home due to her mysterious illness as a way of protecting her within the enchanted walls of the tower. Her only two companions are her handmaiden, Melina, who was separated from her love, and her royal guard, Quinn, who chose to be trapped with Gemma instead of leaving her behind. Most of the book revolves around Quinn and Gemma coming to terms with their underlying feelings toward each other.
The romance in this book is insanely cute. It covers every aspect of young love from denying a crush to complete devotion against all odds. I enjoyed Melina's sage advice to Gemma about how young men often feel insecure when they have a crush on someone and try to hide their feelings as well as the overwhelming fear of rejection. It was sweet how Melina acted like a mother figure to Gemma and didn't seem the least bit resentful toward her for being trapped in the tower since Gemma's wicked mother was the true culprit. Quinn is an interesting character too. Beneath his gruff and quiet exterior hides many secrets that he guards with incredible skill. It was a treat to see him finally open up and allow himself to be vulnerable toward Gemma at the end of the story.
My favorite thing about this book is the tower itself. It was so creative to give Gemma's tower its own personality that she is able to communicate with on an empathic level. The tower is enchanted not only to trap her but also to protect her, which opens up endless possibilities. It has magical rooms that appear at a whim and grows food, herbs, and other resources on a regular basis to keep everyone inside it alive and healthy. It's like its own magical indoor ecosystem. There is also a room of enchanted mirrors that allow Gemma to see glimpses of the outside world, another nod to "Beauty and the Beast." Unfortunately, the images that it shows her are not particularly pleasant, which is just one of many pitfalls fueled by her mother's entrapment spell.
Turret is a heartwarming romance framed around a magical "Rapunzel" inspired setting. This book is more eventful than many others in the series due to the unique setting. It has a nostalgic feel to it with an emotionally immature couple awkwardly navigating their feelings and growing into a mature and healthy relationship. The fact that they are both willing to be there for each other in spite of their personal demons is particularly touching and makes for a lovely fairy tale. Though the book is based on "Rapunzel," I think that "Beauty and the Beast" fans would get the most enjoyment out of Turret as well as anyone who loves fairy tales and romance.
Turret is technically a retelling of "Rapunzel," but I think it is actually a better version of "Beauty and the Beast" than Enchantment, the other "Beauty and the Beast" adaptation from this series. Like Enchantment, Turret portrays a princess named Gemma who is trapped in a magical castle with someone she has budding feelings toward. It's not a literal interpretation of "Rapunzel" since her captor does not live in the tower with her. Instead, her mother banished her from her own home due to her mysterious illness as a way of protecting her within the enchanted walls of the tower. Her only two companions are her handmaiden, Melina, who was separated from her love, and her royal guard, Quinn, who chose to be trapped with Gemma instead of leaving her behind. Most of the book revolves around Quinn and Gemma coming to terms with their underlying feelings toward each other.
The romance in this book is insanely cute. It covers every aspect of young love from denying a crush to complete devotion against all odds. I enjoyed Melina's sage advice to Gemma about how young men often feel insecure when they have a crush on someone and try to hide their feelings as well as the overwhelming fear of rejection. It was sweet how Melina acted like a mother figure to Gemma and didn't seem the least bit resentful toward her for being trapped in the tower since Gemma's wicked mother was the true culprit. Quinn is an interesting character too. Beneath his gruff and quiet exterior hides many secrets that he guards with incredible skill. It was a treat to see him finally open up and allow himself to be vulnerable toward Gemma at the end of the story.
My favorite thing about this book is the tower itself. It was so creative to give Gemma's tower its own personality that she is able to communicate with on an empathic level. The tower is enchanted not only to trap her but also to protect her, which opens up endless possibilities. It has magical rooms that appear at a whim and grows food, herbs, and other resources on a regular basis to keep everyone inside it alive and healthy. It's like its own magical indoor ecosystem. There is also a room of enchanted mirrors that allow Gemma to see glimpses of the outside world, another nod to "Beauty and the Beast." Unfortunately, the images that it shows her are not particularly pleasant, which is just one of many pitfalls fueled by her mother's entrapment spell.
Turret is a heartwarming romance framed around a magical "Rapunzel" inspired setting. This book is more eventful than many others in the series due to the unique setting. It has a nostalgic feel to it with an emotionally immature couple awkwardly navigating their feelings and growing into a mature and healthy relationship. The fact that they are both willing to be there for each other in spite of their personal demons is particularly touching and makes for a lovely fairy tale. Though the book is based on "Rapunzel," I think that "Beauty and the Beast" fans would get the most enjoyment out of Turret as well as anyone who loves fairy tales and romance.
January 1, 2022
I've been looking forward to this installment in the series for quite a while! It caps off the Malvagarian arc, and provides beautiful and heartwarming closure to many of the questions we readers have had for the past four novels of the Kingdom Chronicles. The story provides many fun and fascinating twists and turns, and can be read on its own or as part of the entire series. But, as with all of Ms. Peters' novels, my favorite aspects are her characters:
First and foremost, I adore Gemma. She has so much hidden strength and resolve, and is a testament to the unmasked courage we all are capable of finding to face our worst fears. She is a wonderful heroine for all of us: while she has her apparent weaknesses (her illness, her fears of being alone, her worry of being defined by her illness), she is steadily with love and encouragement able to overcome them and challenge both fate and her own pre-set expectations. She also proves herself to be a master of her own destiny and someone who doesn't stop seeking out the best the world has to offer. I admire and admired her inner strength, and applaud her ability to break down the physical, mental, and emotional walls the world has surrounded her with.
Then there's Quinn: steady, reliable, a perfect rock and fortress of strength for Gemma's heart. He is the ultimate guard, both in actual royal position to Gemma, but also as the protector of her spirit and ambitions. His dedication to his princess is incredibly sweet, and it was nice to see that Gemma always had someone there by her side encouraging her in every way.
There are some great surprises at the end, but in effort to not spoil anything, I will simply cap off this review with a cheer for Ms. Peters' lovely novel and an encouragement for readers to give this charming tale a try!
First and foremost, I adore Gemma. She has so much hidden strength and resolve, and is a testament to the unmasked courage we all are capable of finding to face our worst fears. She is a wonderful heroine for all of us: while she has her apparent weaknesses (her illness, her fears of being alone, her worry of being defined by her illness), she is steadily with love and encouragement able to overcome them and challenge both fate and her own pre-set expectations. She also proves herself to be a master of her own destiny and someone who doesn't stop seeking out the best the world has to offer. I admire and admired her inner strength, and applaud her ability to break down the physical, mental, and emotional walls the world has surrounded her with.
Then there's Quinn: steady, reliable, a perfect rock and fortress of strength for Gemma's heart. He is the ultimate guard, both in actual royal position to Gemma, but also as the protector of her spirit and ambitions. His dedication to his princess is incredibly sweet, and it was nice to see that Gemma always had someone there by her side encouraging her in every way.
There are some great surprises at the end, but in effort to not spoil anything, I will simply cap off this review with a cheer for Ms. Peters' lovely novel and an encouragement for readers to give this charming tale a try!
December 30, 2021
This author is fast becoming one of my favourites. I have read the other books in The Kingdom Chronicles series, and have also started reading other books that she has written. One of my favourite things about these stories is that there are no quick fixes or sugary-sweet answers to the challenges that the characters face. I also enjoy the twists that come as the stories unfold.
Turret can be read without reading the others, but for the best satisfaction, I recommend readers start at the beginning of the series to get the full emotional impact as we learn more about some of our favourites from previous volumes.
In Turret, the cursed princess Gemma and her two faithful attendants have been locked in a magical tower for years with no guarantee that they will ever be released. The narrative is from Gemma's viewpoint, and the reader can follow her internal struggle between the desire to leave the tower and the uncertainty about returning to her old life. We also get to see how her relationship with her faithful guard Quinn begins to change as he refuses to give up hope that one day his princess will be restored to her former home.
As her past secrets are revealed, Gemma makes new discoveries that help with the decisions that she needs to make. If this were a traditional fairy tale, there would be a guaranteed happy-ever-after, and even though this one has a satisfactory ending, there is still enough unresolved story threads to hope that there will be another book in the series to tie up those loose ends.
Turret can be read without reading the others, but for the best satisfaction, I recommend readers start at the beginning of the series to get the full emotional impact as we learn more about some of our favourites from previous volumes.
In Turret, the cursed princess Gemma and her two faithful attendants have been locked in a magical tower for years with no guarantee that they will ever be released. The narrative is from Gemma's viewpoint, and the reader can follow her internal struggle between the desire to leave the tower and the uncertainty about returning to her old life. We also get to see how her relationship with her faithful guard Quinn begins to change as he refuses to give up hope that one day his princess will be restored to her former home.
As her past secrets are revealed, Gemma makes new discoveries that help with the decisions that she needs to make. If this were a traditional fairy tale, there would be a guaranteed happy-ever-after, and even though this one has a satisfactory ending, there is still enough unresolved story threads to hope that there will be another book in the series to tie up those loose ends.
August 19, 2022
Actual Rating: 3.5 Stars
Minor Spoiler, but no specifics-for those who want to go in completely blind
(The reason I didn't give this book 4 stars was because I was a bit disappointed about one aspect of the ending for the main characters. Camille managed to make it sweet though so it wouldn't be totally sad. It totally wasn't a big deal, and the character's were such pros when facing it, I am just one of those people who want like a literal heaven like ending and it's totally unrealistic of me to expect that all books are going to end that way. To be completely honest, it was handled in a totally great, healthy way, and I was satisfied by the end.)
(I think that the reason it happened was because there might be a future book that talks about it.)
But honest to goodness, I absolutely loved the romance. It was so wholesome and adorable I honestly didn't know how I could handle it.
I was actually super excited about this book, so I was absolutely thrilled when Camille announced that this was going to be her next release. I absolutely love Rapunzel (it's like one of my favorite fairy tales) and Camille really did not let me down.
I don't want to give away anything that I haven't already, so I won't say anything more than go read this book, cause it is so worth it!!!
Minor Spoiler, but no specifics-for those who want to go in completely blind
(The reason I didn't give this book 4 stars was because I was a bit disappointed about one aspect of the ending for the main characters. Camille managed to make it sweet though so it wouldn't be totally sad. It totally wasn't a big deal, and the character's were such pros when facing it, I am just one of those people who want like a literal heaven like ending and it's totally unrealistic of me to expect that all books are going to end that way. To be completely honest, it was handled in a totally great, healthy way, and I was satisfied by the end.)
(I think that the reason it happened was because there might be a future book that talks about it.)
But honest to goodness, I absolutely loved the romance. It was so wholesome and adorable I honestly didn't know how I could handle it.
I was actually super excited about this book, so I was absolutely thrilled when Camille announced that this was going to be her next release. I absolutely love Rapunzel (it's like one of my favorite fairy tales) and Camille really did not let me down.
I don't want to give away anything that I haven't already, so I won't say anything more than go read this book, cause it is so worth it!!!
December 24, 2021
-I received a complimentary copy. All opinions, thoughts, etc., are entirely my own.-
I was so excited to read this, especially since it focuses on the last of the Malvagarian royal siblings (bringing closure for that family). Still, unfortunately, I didn't enjoy this as much as I have the other books. I thought Gemma was a good character, and her life, struggles, and obstacles as she grew throughout the book were all well-written. Same with the other characters, those who were in the tower with Gemma and those who were without.
My main problem, though, comes from the romance side of the book. I couldn't see Gemma and Quinn as the central couple for some reason, which I have not been able to figure out yet. Something was missing from the pair. Maybe it was the fact that while the pacing of the entire story was slow, the pacing of this couple was even slower, almost painfully slow. This is kind of surprising, considering that Gemma views Quinn as her best friend, and yet I never NEVER got those vibes. Is there anything wrong with the two of them as a couple? No, there's not. When I said that I couldn't see them as a couple, it's not that they were ever bad. They're not bad as a couple, they're fine. It might have just been in how their love story was written.
I did also have some questions at the end, over various plot points, but not in a negative way. Just to find out what happened to various "entities" in the book and if they'll ever appear in future books. Because one thing that has never changed, and I'm very grateful for, is the author's ability to world-build. I love the imagery and portrayal of the different environments throughout these books.
I was so excited to read this, especially since it focuses on the last of the Malvagarian royal siblings (bringing closure for that family). Still, unfortunately, I didn't enjoy this as much as I have the other books. I thought Gemma was a good character, and her life, struggles, and obstacles as she grew throughout the book were all well-written. Same with the other characters, those who were in the tower with Gemma and those who were without.
My main problem, though, comes from the romance side of the book. I couldn't see Gemma and Quinn as the central couple for some reason, which I have not been able to figure out yet. Something was missing from the pair. Maybe it was the fact that while the pacing of the entire story was slow, the pacing of this couple was even slower, almost painfully slow. This is kind of surprising, considering that Gemma views Quinn as her best friend, and yet I never NEVER got those vibes. Is there anything wrong with the two of them as a couple? No, there's not. When I said that I couldn't see them as a couple, it's not that they were ever bad. They're not bad as a couple, they're fine. It might have just been in how their love story was written.
I did also have some questions at the end, over various plot points, but not in a negative way. Just to find out what happened to various "entities" in the book and if they'll ever appear in future books. Because one thing that has never changed, and I'm very grateful for, is the author's ability to world-build. I love the imagery and portrayal of the different environments throughout these books.
July 7, 2022
Thank you to Camille Peters and her team for an eARC of “Turret”!
I’ve loved falling in Camille’s world in the “Kingdom Chronicles” series. In particular, seeing the four Malvargaian siblings and their stories unfold have been a treat! Each book can be a standalone read, but it’ll be best enjoyed with the whole series encapsulated it. That way, the reader will catch mere mentions of previously-met characters and even see how the continent’s well-being is turning out with curses breaking and magical sprinkling and an adventure in romance, of course.
Princess Gemma’s story, inspired by the fairy tale Rapunzel, was such a precious read. I loved catching the allusions to the original tale, but reading it with Camille’s twists and spins is always fun. I love a good “person falls in love with their protector” trope and this delivered! The first half provided necessary background information, but it was slow and even redundant at times. Stick with it though! I was pleasantly surprised with how the tale got resolved and hope you’ll enjoy it too!
I’ve loved falling in Camille’s world in the “Kingdom Chronicles” series. In particular, seeing the four Malvargaian siblings and their stories unfold have been a treat! Each book can be a standalone read, but it’ll be best enjoyed with the whole series encapsulated it. That way, the reader will catch mere mentions of previously-met characters and even see how the continent’s well-being is turning out with curses breaking and magical sprinkling and an adventure in romance, of course.
Princess Gemma’s story, inspired by the fairy tale Rapunzel, was such a precious read. I loved catching the allusions to the original tale, but reading it with Camille’s twists and spins is always fun. I love a good “person falls in love with their protector” trope and this delivered! The first half provided necessary background information, but it was slow and even redundant at times. Stick with it though! I was pleasantly surprised with how the tale got resolved and hope you’ll enjoy it too!
December 5, 2021
Another lovely feel-good read from Camille Peters! The pace in this book was a little slower than I would have liked, but there were elements of the story that I really enjoyed nonetheless. I found the protagonist to be very relatable, despite her unique circumstances. My favorite twist to the original fairy tale (Rapunzel) was that the tower was another character in the story. I don’t want to say anything else and give up spoilers, but it was very interesting! My favorite aspects of this story were the themes of finding joy even in difficult circumstances, and daring to dream and working to achieve those dreams instead of putting limits on yourself. Like Gemma, I have been afraid to dream, and loved reading about her journey recognizing that fear in herself and then overcoming it. Overall, this was a sweet book that I do recommend! I love this series!
December 12, 2021
To see and be seen
At first it was hard to read of Gemma and the fears that kept her trapped mentally and emotionally just as the tower kept her trapped physically.Quinn with his quiet strength helped Gemma come to believe she could be more than just the sick, weak princess trapped in the tower by her mother's curse.He truly saw her as more than just what her fears tried to tell her she was. The sweet growth of the characters and their love as they worked through hard times together helped inspire me in my own life.With a touch of magic, of which true love plays a role,things work out.I like that this story showed that we all have tough times but we can still find joy.What a delightful clean story that brought back some of the characters from past books in this series.Highly recommended!
At first it was hard to read of Gemma and the fears that kept her trapped mentally and emotionally just as the tower kept her trapped physically.Quinn with his quiet strength helped Gemma come to believe she could be more than just the sick, weak princess trapped in the tower by her mother's curse.He truly saw her as more than just what her fears tried to tell her she was. The sweet growth of the characters and their love as they worked through hard times together helped inspire me in my own life.With a touch of magic, of which true love plays a role,things work out.I like that this story showed that we all have tough times but we can still find joy.What a delightful clean story that brought back some of the characters from past books in this series.Highly recommended!
November 24, 2021
I loved how Gemma experiences so much growth through the book, both in facing and overcoming her own fears, and then by remaining true to her ideals at the most critical moment. And the solution that she comes up with then is brilliant! I really enjoyed that part of the story.
Along the way, she begins to extend herself in new ways, an idea that I find inspirational. We should never let our circumstances define what we can and cannot do. "Do something you *can't* because you can" is a way of telling society that we aren't going to limit ourselves by their "rules". We are free to be who we feel we are, irrespective of expectations of others. That, for me, is one of the key messages of the book.
Along the way, she begins to extend herself in new ways, an idea that I find inspirational. We should never let our circumstances define what we can and cannot do. "Do something you *can't* because you can" is a way of telling society that we aren't going to limit ourselves by their "rules". We are free to be who we feel we are, irrespective of expectations of others. That, for me, is one of the key messages of the book.
November 25, 2021
Turret is the story of a girl imprisoned in a tower, but that isn't her biggest prison. Her biggest prison is the fear that keeps her there.
I was really excited to pick this one up because it's about the last cursed Malvagarian royal, Gemma, and Turret did not disappoint!
I really love the relationship between Gemma and Quinn, her guard. It's super sweet watching them fall for each other and realize their feelings! It's really hard to pick a favorite couple in the Kingdom Chronicles, but Gemma and Quinn are up there!
Also, I loved how the tower became its own character!
All in all, this was a solid addition to the Kingdom Chronicles!
Many thanks to the author, Camille Peters, for a review copy of this novel!
I was really excited to pick this one up because it's about the last cursed Malvagarian royal, Gemma, and Turret did not disappoint!
I really love the relationship between Gemma and Quinn, her guard. It's super sweet watching them fall for each other and realize their feelings! It's really hard to pick a favorite couple in the Kingdom Chronicles, but Gemma and Quinn are up there!
Also, I loved how the tower became its own character!
All in all, this was a solid addition to the Kingdom Chronicles!
Many thanks to the author, Camille Peters, for a review copy of this novel!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 75 reviews