This was truly a charming story! I loved Snow and Rosie's relationship and how Rosie looked out for her and their mother. It was a delight to watch Snow and Prince Frederick fall in love, and I enjoyed seeing Rosie find friendships with his brother, Prince Jonathan, and their cousin Lady Natalie. Even though Rosie was the center of court drama, she stayed resilient and stood her ground. While the troll was mischievous and mean, I enjoyed the scenes she was in because it further highlighted Rosie's character and exposed the true colors of her bully, Marianne. When all of the truth was exposed at the end, with a delicious twist, it was something I wasn't expecting! I highly recommend this slow-burn no-spice fantasy to any lover of fairytale retellings!

When the mean and grumpy troll that Rosie and Snow had helped over the years almost curses them one day, their bear friend strikes him down. Much to their surprise, the bear turns into Prince Frederick, who was cursed by the troll several years ago. Frederick had fallen in love with Snow and whisked her, her sister, and their mother away to live in the palace. However, Rosie is met with disdain from Marianne, who hopes to marry Frederick's brother, Jonathan. As court drama spreads like wildfire, and the troll's sister seeks revenge on them for her brother's demise, Rosie never imagined finding comfort and a friend in Prince Jonathan. With Rosie being shunned at every turn, will she be able to settle into her new life and be content knowing nothing more could become of their friendship? Will they thwart the troll's shenanigans before she destroys everyone's happy ever after?

I received an Advanced Reader Copy with no expectation of a review. All opinions are my own.

Warnings: talk of death

I honestly never know what to expect with an Alice in Wonderland retelling, simply because the story and characters are a little mad. The world-building, storyline, and characters definitely did not disappoint in this one! The twists and revelations were executed perfectly, I was shocked and stunned by them (to tears with one). I loved how Nilsorn kept trying to find his way home, and realizing that Fiorra was the key to that journey. I enjoyed Bracil's wackyness, how he always confused Nilsorn by speaking in riddles, but became a true friend. Watching Nilsorn regain his memories and the realization of what he'd done to get to the After Realm was heartbreaking. Fiorra and Nilsorn having to fight the jabberwocky had me bawling my eyes out. I highly recommend this slow-burn no-spice, fantasy with some strangeness!

Nilsorn wakes up in the After Realm and that's all he knows. He's greeted by the eccentric Bracil, who helps guide him toward his destiny. Meanwhile, Fiorra has been there for years, running a bakery with Lilith who's guiding her as well as keeping the prophecy and a major secret from her. As darkness threatens the After Realm will Fiorra and Nilsorn be able to face the jabberwocky that brings it?

I received an Advanced Reader Copy with no expectation of a review. All opinions are my own.

Warnings: kidnapping, captivity, abuse

This was an absolutely amazing no-spice retelling of Cinderella and I thoroughly enjoyed Mary's take on this tale! There were so many tense moments that had me anxiously on the edge of my seat! The stakes were definitely high from the moment Elena was kidnapped, but I loved how Harlan gave her hope and together they kept their spirits up. I always enjoy when there's secret identities and twists that I don't expect, and Mary never disappoints! I also love seeing characters from previous books in the series, and seeing how their roles intertwine with the current ones. As always the narration was perfect! Talon really outdid herself with these characters, bringing each one to life with a unique voice.

Elena never dreamed that she'd be kidnapped at sea and made to take care of the Captain's daughters' every want and need. But once Harlan was captured, it didn't seem so bleak since they were able to keep each other company and tried to make light of their dismal situation. Many twists came into play as they planned out their escape, and kept hope that they would eventually succeed. Will they be rescued before things get out of their control?