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The Golden Key
Three cursed brothers. A golden haired saviour. The key to unlock the curse.
Once upon a time, there were three brothers of magic, who lived together in a house of their own, in a wood.
Upon first glance, one would assume the brothers were ordinary but they were, in fact, from another land most extraordinary.
For you see, a curse was brought upon these brothers, removing their magic and exiling them in the human realm, in a house of their own, in a wood.
Decades went by with no hope of finding a key to end the curse.
Until one day, when a golden-haired woman stumbled upon their house, in a wood, with the power to change their fate.
The Golden Key is a stand alone, dark fantasty romance.
Once upon a time, there were three brothers of magic, who lived together in a house of their own, in a wood.
Upon first glance, one would assume the brothers were ordinary but they were, in fact, from another land most extraordinary.
For you see, a curse was brought upon these brothers, removing their magic and exiling them in the human realm, in a house of their own, in a wood.
Decades went by with no hope of finding a key to end the curse.
Until one day, when a golden-haired woman stumbled upon their house, in a wood, with the power to change their fate.
The Golden Key is a stand alone, dark fantasty romance.
536 pages, Kindle Edition
Published August 22, 2023
99 people are currently reading
1967 people want to read
About the author
Cass Geller
2 books218 followersEnthralled by fictional worlds for as long as she can remember, Cass prefers to be stuck in a book over most things in life. Originally from the US, she found herself (and her husband) in London and has lived there since 2010, taking on a transatlantic accent she didn't ask for.
She loves things that start with 'w' including (but not limited to): Wonderland, Whisky, Wine, Winter, Wit and Writing.
She loves things that start with 'w' including (but not limited to): Wonderland, Whisky, Wine, Winter, Wit and Writing.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 188 reviews
July 31, 2023
I wrote this book and I love when authors write reviews of their own books, so, here we are.
This book is BIG. It is a standalone fantasy romance, so if a thick read isn’t in your wheelhouse, I’d steer clear.
The story itself is a loose nod to Goldilocks and the three bears (but one love interest. If you are thinking this is a why choose, keep walking).
The book is about healing, in such a way that I healed parts of myself while writing it.
There is spice, but I’d give it a 3 chilli spice rating and definitely not dark spice I’m used to reading/recommending.
Final point, this is my “debut” (as in published. I’ve written books before) and that may put some people off but I’d like you to remember - all of your favourite authors were once debut authors. We all have to start somewhere.
All I can hope is that you find a sliver of yourself inside this world, and that brings you comfort.
Happy reading!
This book is BIG. It is a standalone fantasy romance, so if a thick read isn’t in your wheelhouse, I’d steer clear.
The story itself is a loose nod to Goldilocks and the three bears (but one love interest. If you are thinking this is a why choose, keep walking).
The book is about healing, in such a way that I healed parts of myself while writing it.
There is spice, but I’d give it a 3 chilli spice rating and definitely not dark spice I’m used to reading/recommending.
Final point, this is my “debut” (as in published. I’ve written books before) and that may put some people off but I’d like you to remember - all of your favourite authors were once debut authors. We all have to start somewhere.
All I can hope is that you find a sliver of yourself inside this world, and that brings you comfort.
Happy reading!
September 5, 2023
4,5 🐻🔥💛🗝🤩🤩🤩🤩🌟🌟🌟🌟s❣️❗️❗️❣️
I was fully engrossed in this outstanding very well written debut!!!!
I don’t know what your expectations are, but mine were wonderfully met!!!
This fairy tale had everything I was looking for in a fantasy novel and the balance was very good.
Great main and secondary characters and heartwarming relationships!
I wish the ending was expanded though.
Can we have Fox and Eva’s story please??? 🙏🙏🙏💖
I was fully engrossed in this outstanding very well written debut!!!!
I don’t know what your expectations are, but mine were wonderfully met!!!
This fairy tale had everything I was looking for in a fantasy novel and the balance was very good.
Great main and secondary characters and heartwarming relationships!
I wish the ending was expanded though.
Can we have Fox and Eva’s story please??? 🙏🙏🙏💖
October 20, 2023
* edit: If you leave a bad review it turns out this author will block you on Instagram *
After following Cass on Instagram for a while I was really excited for the release of this book.
Unfortunately I feel like I read a different book to everyone else as the other reviews are nothing but glowing and I can't even finish it.
The grammar is poor and sentences are oddly constructed. The characters have the depth of a shallow puddle on a hot day. Now don't get me wrong, I love a Damaged Girl Meetings Tall Handsome Brooding Guy Who Heals Her With His Sexual Prowess story, but this was a real slog for me to try to get through. It all felt quite wooden. Maybe it improved in the second half of the book? I don't know.
The worst part for me was the language. There were frequent spelling errors and some downright confusing word choices. Examples include:
"His enigmatic hands"
"Stealing my spine" instead of 'steeling'
"Give me your eyes" - sounds like he wants her eyeballs in his hand
"Quickly residing to the fact" - perhaps this was meant to be 'quickly resigning myself to the fact'?
"A jilted smile" - crooked?? The smile was left at the alter??
"An odd site to see" - this was when I called it quits.
It felt like this was not beta read and as if the author had used the Find and Replace function in Word while Googling synonyms and using them to replace words.
I liked the idea of the story but the execution was massively disappointing for me.
After following Cass on Instagram for a while I was really excited for the release of this book.
Unfortunately I feel like I read a different book to everyone else as the other reviews are nothing but glowing and I can't even finish it.
The grammar is poor and sentences are oddly constructed. The characters have the depth of a shallow puddle on a hot day. Now don't get me wrong, I love a Damaged Girl Meetings Tall Handsome Brooding Guy Who Heals Her With His Sexual Prowess story, but this was a real slog for me to try to get through. It all felt quite wooden. Maybe it improved in the second half of the book? I don't know.
The worst part for me was the language. There were frequent spelling errors and some downright confusing word choices. Examples include:
"His enigmatic hands"
"Stealing my spine" instead of 'steeling'
"Give me your eyes" - sounds like he wants her eyeballs in his hand
"Quickly residing to the fact" - perhaps this was meant to be 'quickly resigning myself to the fact'?
"A jilted smile" - crooked?? The smile was left at the alter??
"An odd site to see" - this was when I called it quits.
It felt like this was not beta read and as if the author had used the Find and Replace function in Word while Googling synonyms and using them to replace words.
I liked the idea of the story but the execution was massively disappointing for me.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 26, 2023
This book is magical . . . Cass, thank you for the lovely healing story that Aurelia takes us upon. This book has everything a fantasy read would want, adventure, foreign worlds, amazing characters, and seamless world building, but the biggest part of this? That's just love, healing, and acceptance. The acceptance part took me by surprise, which made me a little emotional at times (in the best way possible!), but I feel the book communities star now shines a little brighter because of this book. You should be so proud of this Cass. This is one hell of a debut. 🥃 to many more a x x
September 8, 2023
DNF at 9% only because I don't think this was ready for the public yet. This romantasy Goldilocks retelling should have gone through another round or 3 of edits before release. The beginning of this book was littered with confusing turns of phrase (the man surging my body from spark to inferno), mixed up homophones (stealing instead of steeling), and blatantly wrong words (resonated should have been reasoned). I really wanted to enjoy an indie author's first work, but I couldn't make myself read 500 pages of avoidable issues.
September 6, 2023
I liked many things and didn't some others
Review with spoilers.
I don't mean to be hateful. I admire Cass' work and her incredible courage in writing this story. This opinion is personal and reflects nothing more than that. My point of view on this.
I am confused. I liked many things about this book and it is well done on many, many levels. However, I fail to connect with the logic behind the reactions and actions of the characters. It all unfolds very magically and without much contact with the beats of my internal logic. If I were traumatized by male violence, there is no way I would decide to stay and live with three men ; I don't know, just like that 🫰🏼. I'd barely talk to them. I would try to get the hell out of there, really. I would have asked them to help me run away (maybe) . Definitely I would be planning how to get away from that whole world. I'm afraid it makes me angry that I feel Aurelia acted this way just because they were physically beautiful and nothing else (which don't make sense considering she's a victim of abuse ) . I also don't understand how overnight the girl was prepared to kill her father.
I think the hardest part of a trauma like that is that as time goes by you feel that you deserve that treatment. You feel like that's the love that's right for you. That, to me, is being broken, being made to doubt yourself. The idea that, above all, you still want to be part of your family, that your father will one day see value in you and love you. No one who lives that from zero years old kills the source of their pain as if it were nothing more than a bug and moves on with their life to crawl into bed with the older brother of three complete strangers. I didn't connect with the abrupt development that, all of a sudden, the brothers worship and protect Aurelia without much knowledge of who this stranger with the power to see them was, didn't they think she might be an enemy? Someone manipulating them? They've been there for years and they see a pretty girl and their brains fall out of their heads. Not so much passage of time is described to justify this to me. I like the premise of this book and the writing is very beautiful and cohesive, but I have issues with the plot coming together.
I don't understand Aurelia's character nor Maddox's, everything evolves in complete disregard of the fluidity of logic. Eva is the only character I felt a connection with and a very precarious one at that. I feel that this story does not respect the natural progression of healing a violent and tortuous past. To me (in a very personal way) Aurelia did not act traumatized, but as a merely innocent girl. She was like a curious child and not a survivor of abuse and slavery. Magically she is princess and she is loved by everyone and she is strong and skilled...in weeks. I don't get it at all. Maddox's love is almost gratuitous he goes from hating her to loving her in a single page fragment. Then you understand that he loved her from their very first meeting, but it doesn't make sense. 😬
Just that. 2.5 stars in a very personal way. I'm wanting to see more from this writer and I'm still very interested in supporting her and would even read a continuation of this story, but with a different treatment of time and character development.
Review with spoilers.
I don't mean to be hateful. I admire Cass' work and her incredible courage in writing this story. This opinion is personal and reflects nothing more than that. My point of view on this.
I am confused. I liked many things about this book and it is well done on many, many levels. However, I fail to connect with the logic behind the reactions and actions of the characters. It all unfolds very magically and without much contact with the beats of my internal logic. If I were traumatized by male violence, there is no way I would decide to stay and live with three men ; I don't know, just like that 🫰🏼. I'd barely talk to them. I would try to get the hell out of there, really. I would have asked them to help me run away (maybe) . Definitely I would be planning how to get away from that whole world. I'm afraid it makes me angry that I feel Aurelia acted this way just because they were physically beautiful and nothing else (which don't make sense considering she's a victim of abuse ) . I also don't understand how overnight the girl was prepared to kill her father.
I think the hardest part of a trauma like that is that as time goes by you feel that you deserve that treatment. You feel like that's the love that's right for you. That, to me, is being broken, being made to doubt yourself. The idea that, above all, you still want to be part of your family, that your father will one day see value in you and love you. No one who lives that from zero years old kills the source of their pain as if it were nothing more than a bug and moves on with their life to crawl into bed with the older brother of three complete strangers. I didn't connect with the abrupt development that, all of a sudden, the brothers worship and protect Aurelia without much knowledge of who this stranger with the power to see them was, didn't they think she might be an enemy? Someone manipulating them? They've been there for years and they see a pretty girl and their brains fall out of their heads. Not so much passage of time is described to justify this to me. I like the premise of this book and the writing is very beautiful and cohesive, but I have issues with the plot coming together.
I don't understand Aurelia's character nor Maddox's, everything evolves in complete disregard of the fluidity of logic. Eva is the only character I felt a connection with and a very precarious one at that. I feel that this story does not respect the natural progression of healing a violent and tortuous past. To me (in a very personal way) Aurelia did not act traumatized, but as a merely innocent girl. She was like a curious child and not a survivor of abuse and slavery. Magically she is princess and she is loved by everyone and she is strong and skilled...in weeks. I don't get it at all. Maddox's love is almost gratuitous he goes from hating her to loving her in a single page fragment. Then you understand that he loved her from their very first meeting, but it doesn't make sense. 😬
Just that. 2.5 stars in a very personal way. I'm wanting to see more from this writer and I'm still very interested in supporting her and would even read a continuation of this story, but with a different treatment of time and character development.
September 8, 2023
DNF not my cup of tea, couldn’t get over all the malapropisms 😩
The motivations of the FMC were curious too, running from abusive men but the first random cabin you rock up to with 3 hulking guys seems like a good place to stop? Idk I just couldn’t get behind it, I think I needed more depth to be able to buy into the characters.
wanted to love it and I’ll definitely try the next one the author puts out, I know this was a debut and I’m interested to see how her writing develops 😊
The motivations of the FMC were curious too, running from abusive men but the first random cabin you rock up to with 3 hulking guys seems like a good place to stop? Idk I just couldn’t get behind it, I think I needed more depth to be able to buy into the characters.
wanted to love it and I’ll definitely try the next one the author puts out, I know this was a debut and I’m interested to see how her writing develops 😊
March 15, 2024
DNF’d 30 pages in.
I know I’m not going to get on with this book.
I really, really wanted to like this book. I wanted to support an indie author. I didn’t want to write a bad review, but I also pride myself on honest reviews.
I didn’t get far enough in to comment on plot, but there’s just no world building whatsoever. I’m still really confused. I think one place is mentioned but nothing is said about it.
The FMC is a damsel in distress cliché. There’s no logic to her thoughts at all. The final straw for me was when she woke up in Mad’s bed and instead of jumping up immediately and freaking out—as expected when two huge men are standing over your bed—she proceeded to give us a run-down of their appearances. Their chocolate eyes and everything else. I feel like the action should’ve come first; I don’t think I would have noticed all this about two people if I’d been leaping up from the bed and taking on a defensive stance.
The thing that really made this impossible to read were the weird phrases. ‘His enigmatic hands’ and ‘His eyes were an autumnal inferno’ or something. I don’t mind the occasional slip but this was constant and I’m not sure what the author was trying to say.
Everything was overly-detailed. I’m not sure if the author tried to use complex words to make the writing seem elaborate but nothing made sense.
I’m really sad because I’ve been following this author on Instagram for a while and I’ve heard so many good things about this book but it just wasn’t for me. As an indie author myself I really wanted to love this book. I also feel whoever edited this book has had the author off completely; the phrases and mistakes should definitely have been picked up by an editor.
That being said I really like the premise of the book. I think it has a lot of potential to go far but after a few more edits.
I know I’m not going to get on with this book.
I really, really wanted to like this book. I wanted to support an indie author. I didn’t want to write a bad review, but I also pride myself on honest reviews.
I didn’t get far enough in to comment on plot, but there’s just no world building whatsoever. I’m still really confused. I think one place is mentioned but nothing is said about it.
The FMC is a damsel in distress cliché. There’s no logic to her thoughts at all. The final straw for me was when she woke up in Mad’s bed and instead of jumping up immediately and freaking out—as expected when two huge men are standing over your bed—she proceeded to give us a run-down of their appearances. Their chocolate eyes and everything else. I feel like the action should’ve come first; I don’t think I would have noticed all this about two people if I’d been leaping up from the bed and taking on a defensive stance.
The thing that really made this impossible to read were the weird phrases. ‘His enigmatic hands’ and ‘His eyes were an autumnal inferno’ or something. I don’t mind the occasional slip but this was constant and I’m not sure what the author was trying to say.
Everything was overly-detailed. I’m not sure if the author tried to use complex words to make the writing seem elaborate but nothing made sense.
I’m really sad because I’ve been following this author on Instagram for a while and I’ve heard so many good things about this book but it just wasn’t for me. As an indie author myself I really wanted to love this book. I also feel whoever edited this book has had the author off completely; the phrases and mistakes should definitely have been picked up by an editor.
That being said I really like the premise of the book. I think it has a lot of potential to go far but after a few more edits.
September 17, 2023
DNF
I hate giving bad reviews because a lot of effort goes into writing a book and could I do any better? Probably not...
I follow this author on IG and really enjoy doing so, so obviously I had to pick up her book. But...
The writing style just wasn't for me. You know the saying "show, don't tell," well, this book was the opposite of that which made it really hard for me to connect with the story and characters. The dialogue was overly direct; it was a lot of the characters telling us what was going on or how they were feeling with fluffy filler words thrown in. Honestly, I read the word "meandered" in a sentence and had to be done. It felt so unnatural in its placement that it took me right out of the story. It was the straw that broke the camels back so to speak. I wasn't even 10% of the way through the book and was already fed up with the thesaurus explosion. It was like the author felt the need to put in what I'm going to call "expensive" words just to seem more author-y and polished but it just felt forced and not very genuine.
Also, the insta-love displayed by the MMC caught me off guard. I though it was going to be a dislike-to-love situation (as stated by the author?) but he was obsessed and possessive of her within the first hour of meeting her. And of course, he had to tell us that he was obsessed with her, where's the build up? The character development?
I hate giving bad reviews because a lot of effort goes into writing a book and could I do any better? Probably not...
I follow this author on IG and really enjoy doing so, so obviously I had to pick up her book. But...
The writing style just wasn't for me. You know the saying "show, don't tell," well, this book was the opposite of that which made it really hard for me to connect with the story and characters. The dialogue was overly direct; it was a lot of the characters telling us what was going on or how they were feeling with fluffy filler words thrown in. Honestly, I read the word "meandered" in a sentence and had to be done. It felt so unnatural in its placement that it took me right out of the story. It was the straw that broke the camels back so to speak. I wasn't even 10% of the way through the book and was already fed up with the thesaurus explosion. It was like the author felt the need to put in what I'm going to call "expensive" words just to seem more author-y and polished but it just felt forced and not very genuine.
Also, the insta-love displayed by the MMC caught me off guard. I though it was going to be a dislike-to-love situation (as stated by the author?) but he was obsessed and possessive of her within the first hour of meeting her. And of course, he had to tell us that he was obsessed with her, where's the build up? The character development?
December 14, 2023
To quote my best friend, “My kingdom for a developmental editor.”
DNF at 7%. I had high hopes for this one as I’ve been following the author for a few months on Instagram.
“…getting lost in the trellis of my golden locks…”
“…the cogs of his muscles…”
“I retched my way through the bowlful…”
A trellis is what climbing plants grow on, commonly made of wood lattice, I believe this was meant to have been “tresses” which refers to locks of hair
Cogs are wheels in a machine. I truly can’t make any assumptions on what the author was trying to say.
To retch is to vomit, or make the sound of vomiting. It’s not a way to consume things. Perhaps “I suffered through each spoonful of porridge, but forced myself to finish the entire bowl.”
I just hope she finds more critical/honest beta readers and ARC reviewers for her next book.
DNF at 7%. I had high hopes for this one as I’ve been following the author for a few months on Instagram.
“…getting lost in the trellis of my golden locks…”
“…the cogs of his muscles…”
“I retched my way through the bowlful…”
A trellis is what climbing plants grow on, commonly made of wood lattice, I believe this was meant to have been “tresses” which refers to locks of hair
Cogs are wheels in a machine. I truly can’t make any assumptions on what the author was trying to say.
To retch is to vomit, or make the sound of vomiting. It’s not a way to consume things. Perhaps “I suffered through each spoonful of porridge, but forced myself to finish the entire bowl.”
I just hope she finds more critical/honest beta readers and ARC reviewers for her next book.
August 23, 2023
“You should have never underestimated me.”
Thank you so much, Cass, for an ARC of this beauty. It’s been amazing watching your writer’s journey and know your baby is out in the world. And, what a wonderful story you’ve given us 💛
Opening with an incredibly enticing prologue, The Golden Key is a stunning romantasy debut that had me gripped from start to finish.
Seeking refuge in a cabin in the woods, Aurelia finds more than she ever could have expected. A quest for revenge. Friendship. Family. Love. Strength. Healing. Herself.
“This isn’t madness. This is redemption.”
Beautifully written, TGK encompassed so many elements of romantasy I love. The balance of plot, heart, spice, humour, angst and action was, dare I say, just right.
Loved having both Aurelia and Maddox’s POVs. I mean, who doesn’t love mutual pinning? With a delectable slow burn, a beautiful love story blossomed between them. But more than that seeing their individual character development was a joy to read.
I can’t not mention the incredible side characters of Fox, Xavier, Trix and Eva, who, all have major main character energy and I wouldn’t mind some spin-offs *hint hint, nudge nudge*
I stood in a moment I never thought I’d see. Surrounded by men who would hand me the torch to set the world on fire.
You’re in for a treat with this one, and from The Golden Key, you can expect:
🐻Goldilocks Retelling
🗝️Forced Proximity
🐻Grumpy x Sunshine
🗝️Found Family
🐻Slow Burn
🗝️One Horse
🐻Healing Journey
🗝️Standalone Romantasy
Cass, I’m really looking forward to what you do next 💛
“I’ll always be here to pick you up when you fall. I’ll always kiss away your tears. And I will always, always make damn sure you have a choice.”
Thank you so much, Cass, for an ARC of this beauty. It’s been amazing watching your writer’s journey and know your baby is out in the world. And, what a wonderful story you’ve given us 💛
Opening with an incredibly enticing prologue, The Golden Key is a stunning romantasy debut that had me gripped from start to finish.
Seeking refuge in a cabin in the woods, Aurelia finds more than she ever could have expected. A quest for revenge. Friendship. Family. Love. Strength. Healing. Herself.
“This isn’t madness. This is redemption.”
Beautifully written, TGK encompassed so many elements of romantasy I love. The balance of plot, heart, spice, humour, angst and action was, dare I say, just right.
Loved having both Aurelia and Maddox’s POVs. I mean, who doesn’t love mutual pinning? With a delectable slow burn, a beautiful love story blossomed between them. But more than that seeing their individual character development was a joy to read.
I can’t not mention the incredible side characters of Fox, Xavier, Trix and Eva, who, all have major main character energy and I wouldn’t mind some spin-offs *hint hint, nudge nudge*
I stood in a moment I never thought I’d see. Surrounded by men who would hand me the torch to set the world on fire.
You’re in for a treat with this one, and from The Golden Key, you can expect:
🐻Goldilocks Retelling
🗝️Forced Proximity
🐻Grumpy x Sunshine
🗝️Found Family
🐻Slow Burn
🗝️One Horse
🐻Healing Journey
🗝️Standalone Romantasy
Cass, I’m really looking forward to what you do next 💛
“I’ll always be here to pick you up when you fall. I’ll always kiss away your tears. And I will always, always make damn sure you have a choice.”
August 23, 2023
Cass, ya did the damn thing. From one indie author to another, I am so proud of you!
Also, Maddox can GET 👏🏼 IT 👏🏼
Also, Maddox can GET 👏🏼 IT 👏🏼
August 2, 2023
ARC Review - Received an ARC for my honest opinion on this book.
"With everything that is spiraling through that beautiful head of yours, remember to take a few seconds every once in a while and ground yourself in where you are and how far you’ve come. You’re not alone anymore.”
You’re not alone anymore."
In this beautiful Goldilocks and the Three Bears retelling we meet Aurelia, our FMC, who is on the run from a life that has harmed her irreparably. She finds herself in front of a cabin she shouldn't be seeing.
It belongs to our three "bears". Three brothers - Maddox, Xavier, and Fox. When they arrive home they find Aurelia asleep in (a very grumpy and very angry) Mads bed. And the tale begins.
Aurelia, in a quest for revenge and strength, finds a love in Mads, our eldest, grumpy, sexy, angry brother. She finds home and acceptance in Xavier. And in Fox she finds her wit, her physical strength, and a little naughtiness.
Together they learn about each other's past and secrets and embark on a journey to save each other, and break a magical curse.
The writing in this debut novel is enchanting and emotional and mature. Cass didn't write a damsel in distress, she wrote a woman that is desperate to find herself and her own strength and her own healing. And she's written an MMC in Mads that instead of burning the world FOR her, he empowers her to do the burning while he stands at her back, and by her side. I LOVED that. The way he protects her while still encouraging her to fight on her own was everything. He's also VERY sexy. Trust me. The gradual opening up of Mads from an angry hopeless character to a kind and encouraging brother and love is a really beautiful story in itself.
The love between our main characters is a slow burn of epic proportions but when I tell you the payoff is worth it... it's WORTH IT.
“When there is nothing left of me but ash, I will love you.”
Xavier and Fox are the sexy brothers that are not to be forgotten. They add to the story in their own magical ways. Xavier the empath, who's kindness transforms those around him. And Fox, our sassy, protective younger brother, who's wit will charm the pants off anyone.
There are some amazing side characters as well in Bea, the friendly witch. And Rock, the fox that attaches itself to Aurelia. We also get to know more family members and without giving away spoilers some of them warmed the corners of my heart that loved the reconciliation they were able to have.
Tropes you'll find:
Mental Health Rep
Slow Burn
Found Family
Praise
GOOD BOY
One horse
Grumpy x Sunshine
Queer Rep
Trauma Healing
Delicious Smut
This will definitely be a comfort read of mine for years to come. Cass has created multiple worlds and a rich and vivid fantasy that is comforting and cozy while still a great adventure. It's sexy and moving and healing and so well written.
"I love you. I fell in love with you the day I found you sleeping in my bed and it has only escalated in need, desire, absolution. Nothing will stop me from loving you in this life and whatever lives come after.”
All the stars. Thank you for the early copy!
"With everything that is spiraling through that beautiful head of yours, remember to take a few seconds every once in a while and ground yourself in where you are and how far you’ve come. You’re not alone anymore.”
You’re not alone anymore."
In this beautiful Goldilocks and the Three Bears retelling we meet Aurelia, our FMC, who is on the run from a life that has harmed her irreparably. She finds herself in front of a cabin she shouldn't be seeing.
It belongs to our three "bears". Three brothers - Maddox, Xavier, and Fox. When they arrive home they find Aurelia asleep in (a very grumpy and very angry) Mads bed. And the tale begins.
Aurelia, in a quest for revenge and strength, finds a love in Mads, our eldest, grumpy, sexy, angry brother. She finds home and acceptance in Xavier. And in Fox she finds her wit, her physical strength, and a little naughtiness.
Together they learn about each other's past and secrets and embark on a journey to save each other, and break a magical curse.
The writing in this debut novel is enchanting and emotional and mature. Cass didn't write a damsel in distress, she wrote a woman that is desperate to find herself and her own strength and her own healing. And she's written an MMC in Mads that instead of burning the world FOR her, he empowers her to do the burning while he stands at her back, and by her side. I LOVED that. The way he protects her while still encouraging her to fight on her own was everything. He's also VERY sexy. Trust me. The gradual opening up of Mads from an angry hopeless character to a kind and encouraging brother and love is a really beautiful story in itself.
The love between our main characters is a slow burn of epic proportions but when I tell you the payoff is worth it... it's WORTH IT.
“When there is nothing left of me but ash, I will love you.”
Xavier and Fox are the sexy brothers that are not to be forgotten. They add to the story in their own magical ways. Xavier the empath, who's kindness transforms those around him. And Fox, our sassy, protective younger brother, who's wit will charm the pants off anyone.
There are some amazing side characters as well in Bea, the friendly witch. And Rock, the fox that attaches itself to Aurelia. We also get to know more family members and without giving away spoilers some of them warmed the corners of my heart that loved the reconciliation they were able to have.
Tropes you'll find:
Mental Health Rep
Slow Burn
Found Family
Praise
GOOD BOY
One horse
Grumpy x Sunshine
Queer Rep
Trauma Healing
Delicious Smut
This will definitely be a comfort read of mine for years to come. Cass has created multiple worlds and a rich and vivid fantasy that is comforting and cozy while still a great adventure. It's sexy and moving and healing and so well written.
"I love you. I fell in love with you the day I found you sleeping in my bed and it has only escalated in need, desire, absolution. Nothing will stop me from loving you in this life and whatever lives come after.”
All the stars. Thank you for the early copy!
August 27, 2023
Took a day to gather my thoughts on this one. To start, I did like it - Mads and Aurelia were great. The side characters/found family were fun. I laughed at points at the banter. I appreciated the healing journey. I wish we saw more of that in other books. That said, I think this probably would have been better split up. 60% of the book was essentially in the house in the woods with our main handling trauma responses, panic attacks, etc. This was fine but everything felt kind of neat and done within a few pages. It also felt like every character the FMC ran into had specialized therapy training. I almost wished one of the side characters handled something poorly. It needed a flaw to work through. Honestly I'd love to meet these people in real life because of how amazingly they were able to handle everything. I just didn't want it in a fantasy world.
Maybe I just love a little angst. I even would have loved more of an enemies to lover response for our two mains. I know it was written so that weeks passed but it felt like a matter of days before all was ok. I think maybe the author was sick of the overly angsty, wordy books where it takes forever for the two mains to get together. Or even when it takes too long for the main to realize their full potential. I'm actually someone who gets annoyed by that as well. But maybe in trying to be different it was rushed. At least for me. Also I have no idea if the author thought this. I'm just word vomiting all my thoughts. Probably should say this is all just an opinion and nothing personal.
The end was so fast. I believe it took 70% of the book to get them home. Then we had a bit of planning for the big conflict which was over in a few pages. Over and all neatly resolved. This is why I think it could have been better split up.
Having said all that, I did enjoy it - just wasn't my favorite.
Maybe I just love a little angst. I even would have loved more of an enemies to lover response for our two mains. I know it was written so that weeks passed but it felt like a matter of days before all was ok. I think maybe the author was sick of the overly angsty, wordy books where it takes forever for the two mains to get together. Or even when it takes too long for the main to realize their full potential. I'm actually someone who gets annoyed by that as well. But maybe in trying to be different it was rushed. At least for me. Also I have no idea if the author thought this. I'm just word vomiting all my thoughts. Probably should say this is all just an opinion and nothing personal.
The end was so fast. I believe it took 70% of the book to get them home. Then we had a bit of planning for the big conflict which was over in a few pages. Over and all neatly resolved. This is why I think it could have been better split up.
Having said all that, I did enjoy it - just wasn't my favorite.
August 28, 2023
One of my most anticipated new releases of 2023 and Cass absolutely did the damn thing! Honestly, this was just so amazing! In short, if you love dark fantasy romances with brilliant plot and world-building, this book is for you.
I haven't been reading as many fantasy or even dark romance books this year, but I absolutely knew I had to read this book and that it would be fantastic because I, like many of you, have followed along with Cass's journey as a debut author. Well not only was the opening line the best ever, but the thoughtful way the themes of trauma, healing, and self-discovery within a found family were explored and navigated was just beautiful.
I loved it so much I immediately ordered the paperback and it's gorgeous!
*Thank you to Cass for an e-arc of this book, all opinions are my own!*
I haven't been reading as many fantasy or even dark romance books this year, but I absolutely knew I had to read this book and that it would be fantastic because I, like many of you, have followed along with Cass's journey as a debut author. Well not only was the opening line the best ever, but the thoughtful way the themes of trauma, healing, and self-discovery within a found family were explored and navigated was just beautiful.
I loved it so much I immediately ordered the paperback and it's gorgeous!
*Thank you to Cass for an e-arc of this book, all opinions are my own!*
September 1, 2023
4.5 stars rounded up to 5 stars!
Such a bloody stunning debut from Cass, cannot wait to see what comes next!
Such a bloody stunning debut from Cass, cannot wait to see what comes next!
August 12, 2023
I was lucky enough to get an ARC of The Golden Key, and I want to say thank you so much to Cass for letting me read this amazing book ahead of it release.
This book is a fantastic story filled with mental health rep, a slooooooow burn, queer rep, one horse, and a real grumpy mmc.
The Golden Key carries elements of Goldilocks, but this is not your childhood fairytale. This is a Dark Fantasy Romance stand-alone with the story centring around healing.
Following Aurelia, the FMC, as she's on the run from a life filled with pain, she finds a mysterious cabin in the woods. She feels drawn to it, and against her better judgement enters, and it's here the story begins.
Who owns this cabin? Three sexy bear brothers. Not actual bears. After Aurelia gets caught sleeping in one of their beds, we get properly introduced to the three bear brothers, Maddox, the eldest, Xavier, the middle child, and Fox, the youngest. We follow Aurelia and the brothers as they start slowly getting to know each other and slowly but surely build trust between them.
The relationships Aurelia develops with each brother, and later Bea, the powerful friendly sassy witch whom you wouldn't mess with, are very different but so very important. There are many different ways to heal, to get revenge, and that is what Aurelia finds in these different relationships.
And as we find out and learn more about their pasts, we go on an adventure of breaking a curse and taking their power back in more ways than one.
The Golden Key is a work of wonder, a spectacular story with characters that will stick with you. Not only do I love Aurelia, but I also adore the bears. My favourite is Fox because he's just full of banter, sarcasm, and smirks.
The Golden Key comes out on the 22nd, and I can't recommend it enough!
This book is a fantastic story filled with mental health rep, a slooooooow burn, queer rep, one horse, and a real grumpy mmc.
The Golden Key carries elements of Goldilocks, but this is not your childhood fairytale. This is a Dark Fantasy Romance stand-alone with the story centring around healing.
Following Aurelia, the FMC, as she's on the run from a life filled with pain, she finds a mysterious cabin in the woods. She feels drawn to it, and against her better judgement enters, and it's here the story begins.
Who owns this cabin? Three sexy bear brothers. Not actual bears. After Aurelia gets caught sleeping in one of their beds, we get properly introduced to the three bear brothers, Maddox, the eldest, Xavier, the middle child, and Fox, the youngest. We follow Aurelia and the brothers as they start slowly getting to know each other and slowly but surely build trust between them.
The relationships Aurelia develops with each brother, and later Bea, the powerful friendly sassy witch whom you wouldn't mess with, are very different but so very important. There are many different ways to heal, to get revenge, and that is what Aurelia finds in these different relationships.
And as we find out and learn more about their pasts, we go on an adventure of breaking a curse and taking their power back in more ways than one.
The Golden Key is a work of wonder, a spectacular story with characters that will stick with you. Not only do I love Aurelia, but I also adore the bears. My favourite is Fox because he's just full of banter, sarcasm, and smirks.
The Golden Key comes out on the 22nd, and I can't recommend it enough!
August 22, 2023
This is a Goldilocks and the 3 bears retelling, but make it a dark romantasy (NOT why choose) with original and loveable characters, and twists you won’t see coming!
There is not one single thing about this book that I didn’t absolutely adore. Whether it’s Cass’s writing style (easy to read, clever), the plot (so intriguing), the world building (magical, elaborate but not overly complicated), the characters’ development and growth, Aurelia’s journey in taking back her power, her relationship with Xav, Fox and Mads, I loved EVERYTHING. I’ll even add an extra golden star for my favourite side character, Bea. I’m sad it’s a standalone, I would’ve take at least another book or two in this world!
If you loved ACOSF, you will love The Golden Key as the vibes are similar (although it’s a complete different story, I couldn’t help but compare).
Here’s what you’ll also find in this book:
🔑A found family
🔑A curse
🔑Insta attraction
🔑Healing from trauma
🔑Who did this to you
🔑One horse
🔑Delicious medium burn
🔑Forehead kisses 🥰
❗️Fantasy/romantasy lovers, this is definitely a must read!❗️
Thank you so much to Cass Geller for providing me with an eARC of this book in exchange for an honest review 💜
There is not one single thing about this book that I didn’t absolutely adore. Whether it’s Cass’s writing style (easy to read, clever), the plot (so intriguing), the world building (magical, elaborate but not overly complicated), the characters’ development and growth, Aurelia’s journey in taking back her power, her relationship with Xav, Fox and Mads, I loved EVERYTHING. I’ll even add an extra golden star for my favourite side character, Bea. I’m sad it’s a standalone, I would’ve take at least another book or two in this world!
If you loved ACOSF, you will love The Golden Key as the vibes are similar (although it’s a complete different story, I couldn’t help but compare).
Here’s what you’ll also find in this book:
🔑A found family
🔑A curse
🔑Insta attraction
🔑Healing from trauma
🔑Who did this to you
🔑One horse
🔑Delicious medium burn
🔑Forehead kisses 🥰
❗️Fantasy/romantasy lovers, this is definitely a must read!❗️
Thank you so much to Cass Geller for providing me with an eARC of this book in exchange for an honest review 💜
August 22, 2023
ARC REVIEW: The Golden Key by Cass Geller
Where to even begin. Cass was one of my first ever follows in the bookstagram world from my private account, long before I made the jump to make my own account. She is brilliantly witty, honest, genuine and beautiful. And her book reflects ALL of those pieces of her.
Our FMC Aurelia is an absolute badass. And her three bears… well, you will find out, and enjoy the process 🥹😈
There is the most supreme found family, one bed, one horse… so many tropes we know and love. But not thrown in gratuitously or without purpose. This tale was beautifully woven with purpose, a story that heals you while you are giggling. It’s magic. It’s so very Cass.
Thank you so much of the privilege of receiving an ARC for your gorgeous debut, Cass, in exchange for an honest review 🐻🐻❄️✨
Where to even begin. Cass was one of my first ever follows in the bookstagram world from my private account, long before I made the jump to make my own account. She is brilliantly witty, honest, genuine and beautiful. And her book reflects ALL of those pieces of her.
Our FMC Aurelia is an absolute badass. And her three bears… well, you will find out, and enjoy the process 🥹😈
There is the most supreme found family, one bed, one horse… so many tropes we know and love. But not thrown in gratuitously or without purpose. This tale was beautifully woven with purpose, a story that heals you while you are giggling. It’s magic. It’s so very Cass.
Thank you so much of the privilege of receiving an ARC for your gorgeous debut, Cass, in exchange for an honest review 🐻🐻❄️✨
August 12, 2023
Standalone • ARC review
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Adult • Dark Fantasy Romance
Print Length: 578 pages
Release date: August 22
What’s inside:
🌿dark fantasy romance
🌿dual POV
🌿learning how to fight
🌿curses and riddles
🌿one bed
🌿one horse
{We want Fox’s story👀}
What an opening line 🤌🏼 what a prologue 🤌🏼
And good for you, Goldie. Good for you!
“𝙈𝙮 𝙜𝙖𝙯𝙚 𝙗𝙧𝙞𝙚𝙛𝙡𝙮 𝙨𝙬𝙚𝙥𝙩 𝙤𝙫𝙚𝙧 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙗𝙞𝙨𝙘𝙪𝙞𝙩 𝙩𝙧𝙖𝙮, 𝙣𝙤𝙩𝙞𝙘𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙖 𝙨𝙢𝙖𝙡𝙡 𝙗𝙪𝙩𝙩𝙚𝙧 𝙠𝙣𝙞𝙛𝙚. 𝘾𝙡𝙚𝙖𝙧𝙡𝙮, 𝙢𝙮 𝙙𝙚𝙥𝙚𝙣𝙙𝙚𝙣𝙘𝙚 𝙤𝙣 𝙨𝙝𝙖𝙧𝙥 𝙤𝙗𝙟𝙚𝙘𝙩𝙨 𝙝𝙖𝙙 𝙜𝙧𝙤𝙬𝙣 𝙧𝙖𝙥𝙞𝙙𝙡𝙮.”
I’m so happy, and proud, and beyond excited to see Cass’s debut go into the vast wilderness of the world. To see so many meet Goldie and the three bears. To see many feel seen. To see people fall in love with a grumpy man and a broken yet always fierce golden girl.
{We want Fox’s story👀}
“𝙏𝙚𝙡𝙡 𝙪𝙨, 𝘼𝙪𝙧𝙚𝙡𝙞𝙖, 𝙙𝙤 𝙮𝙤𝙪 𝙗𝙚𝙡𝙞𝙚𝙫𝙚 𝙞𝙣 𝙢𝙖𝙜𝙞𝙘?”
“𝙄’𝙫𝙚 𝙣𝙚𝙫𝙚𝙧 𝙝𝙖𝙙 𝙖𝙣𝙮 𝙧𝙚𝙖𝙨𝙤𝙣 𝙣𝙤𝙩 𝙩𝙤 𝙗𝙚𝙡𝙞𝙚𝙫𝙚 𝙞𝙣 𝙞𝙩.”
Is it dark fantasy romance when darkness is real?
“𝘾𝙧𝙖𝙯𝙮? 𝙉𝙤, 𝙎𝙝𝙚𝙡𝙩𝙤𝙣. 𝙏𝙝𝙞𝙨 𝙞𝙨𝙣’𝙩 𝙢𝙖𝙙𝙣𝙚𝙨𝙨. 𝙏𝙝𝙞𝙨 𝙞𝙨 𝙧𝙚𝙙𝙚𝙢𝙥𝙩𝙞𝙤𝙣.”
Cass is made for the stars.
This is just the beginning.
{better be because we want Fox’s story 👀}
Sorry Mads, we love you but… 🦊
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Adult • Dark Fantasy Romance
Print Length: 578 pages
Release date: August 22
What’s inside:
🌿dark fantasy romance
🌿dual POV
🌿learning how to fight
🌿curses and riddles
🌿one bed
🌿one horse
{We want Fox’s story👀}
What an opening line 🤌🏼 what a prologue 🤌🏼
And good for you, Goldie. Good for you!
“𝙈𝙮 𝙜𝙖𝙯𝙚 𝙗𝙧𝙞𝙚𝙛𝙡𝙮 𝙨𝙬𝙚𝙥𝙩 𝙤𝙫𝙚𝙧 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙗𝙞𝙨𝙘𝙪𝙞𝙩 𝙩𝙧𝙖𝙮, 𝙣𝙤𝙩𝙞𝙘𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙖 𝙨𝙢𝙖𝙡𝙡 𝙗𝙪𝙩𝙩𝙚𝙧 𝙠𝙣𝙞𝙛𝙚. 𝘾𝙡𝙚𝙖𝙧𝙡𝙮, 𝙢𝙮 𝙙𝙚𝙥𝙚𝙣𝙙𝙚𝙣𝙘𝙚 𝙤𝙣 𝙨𝙝𝙖𝙧𝙥 𝙤𝙗𝙟𝙚𝙘𝙩𝙨 𝙝𝙖𝙙 𝙜𝙧𝙤𝙬𝙣 𝙧𝙖𝙥𝙞𝙙𝙡𝙮.”
I’m so happy, and proud, and beyond excited to see Cass’s debut go into the vast wilderness of the world. To see so many meet Goldie and the three bears. To see many feel seen. To see people fall in love with a grumpy man and a broken yet always fierce golden girl.
{We want Fox’s story👀}
“𝙏𝙚𝙡𝙡 𝙪𝙨, 𝘼𝙪𝙧𝙚𝙡𝙞𝙖, 𝙙𝙤 𝙮𝙤𝙪 𝙗𝙚𝙡𝙞𝙚𝙫𝙚 𝙞𝙣 𝙢𝙖𝙜𝙞𝙘?”
“𝙄’𝙫𝙚 𝙣𝙚𝙫𝙚𝙧 𝙝𝙖𝙙 𝙖𝙣𝙮 𝙧𝙚𝙖𝙨𝙤𝙣 𝙣𝙤𝙩 𝙩𝙤 𝙗𝙚𝙡𝙞𝙚𝙫𝙚 𝙞𝙣 𝙞𝙩.”
Is it dark fantasy romance when darkness is real?
“𝘾𝙧𝙖𝙯𝙮? 𝙉𝙤, 𝙎𝙝𝙚𝙡𝙩𝙤𝙣. 𝙏𝙝𝙞𝙨 𝙞𝙨𝙣’𝙩 𝙢𝙖𝙙𝙣𝙚𝙨𝙨. 𝙏𝙝𝙞𝙨 𝙞𝙨 𝙧𝙚𝙙𝙚𝙢𝙥𝙩𝙞𝙤𝙣.”
Cass is made for the stars.
This is just the beginning.
{better be because we want Fox’s story 👀}
Sorry Mads, we love you but… 🦊
August 28, 2023
I would classify this as an adult fairytale. Although some adult themes and some darker content, this gave me an overall feeling of warmth, joy, and happiness (with a good dose of spice for good measure).
August 28, 2024
I enjoyed this book so much, I didn't want it to end! The story, the characters, and the underlying message. I loved it all! Thank you, Cass Geller, for such an amazing book! Hoping for a sequel x
August 25, 2023
This. Book. 🗝️ All the stars!!!!
I was beyond lucky to have received an ARC of this book, which I could not have been more grateful for.
Cass Geller has given us the most beautiful story as her debut novel. I knew that whatever she wrote was going to be amazing but this book fulfilled and exceeded any and all expectations 🖤
This book has everything you could ever hope for-
🗝️Dual POV
🗝️A FMC on a healing journey
🗝️A broody, delicious MMC
🗝️Three brothers (BEARS 🐻) each unique in their own right, combining together for one fantastic trio of men
🗝️One horse
🗝️Forced Proximity
🗝️Found Family
🗝️Fantastic side characters
🗝️Fantasy
🗝️Magic
🗝️Spice
Literally the list goes on and on! I cannot recommend this book enough. The growth that honestly each one of these characters is able to go through in a singular novel is amazing. And it’s done WELL. It’s got humor, love, friendship, family, and a magical world to set it all in. Aurelia, Maddox, Fox, Xavier, Rock, and Bea- you will be with me forever 🖤🐻🗝️
I was beyond lucky to have received an ARC of this book, which I could not have been more grateful for.
Cass Geller has given us the most beautiful story as her debut novel. I knew that whatever she wrote was going to be amazing but this book fulfilled and exceeded any and all expectations 🖤
This book has everything you could ever hope for-
🗝️Dual POV
🗝️A FMC on a healing journey
🗝️A broody, delicious MMC
🗝️Three brothers (BEARS 🐻) each unique in their own right, combining together for one fantastic trio of men
🗝️One horse
🗝️Forced Proximity
🗝️Found Family
🗝️Fantastic side characters
🗝️Fantasy
🗝️Magic
🗝️Spice
Literally the list goes on and on! I cannot recommend this book enough. The growth that honestly each one of these characters is able to go through in a singular novel is amazing. And it’s done WELL. It’s got humor, love, friendship, family, and a magical world to set it all in. Aurelia, Maddox, Fox, Xavier, Rock, and Bea- you will be with me forever 🖤🐻🗝️
August 29, 2023
I loved every moment of this book. Cass has created a magical world, and has put so much of her soul into this book. I went in thinking it’s going to be a why choose, boy oh boy OH BOY I was so wrong.
And it was such a fantastic surprise. I love not knowing much about a book before I dive in, it’s makes reading way more of an adventure and discovery.
Our FMC was a fire cracker and had so much depth and soul. The mental representation was so beautifully written and executed. It’s amazing to read a book and actually picture the author writing it. Cass has such a beautiful heart and soul and this book just highlights that. Being able to see the author through the pages makes reading this that more special.
And it was such a fantastic surprise. I love not knowing much about a book before I dive in, it’s makes reading way more of an adventure and discovery.
Our FMC was a fire cracker and had so much depth and soul. The mental representation was so beautifully written and executed. It’s amazing to read a book and actually picture the author writing it. Cass has such a beautiful heart and soul and this book just highlights that. Being able to see the author through the pages makes reading this that more special.
August 23, 2023
“You are the fire in my veins.”
Aurelia escapes from her abusive family and fiancee and flees into the woods. Stumbling upon a cabin, she meets the three brothers who live there. It soon becomes clear that Aurelia is exactly who they need to return to their home - Raithe, a kingdom not of this world. Eager to help her saviours, Aurelia begins to learn about herself and her past - leading to an entanglement with their oldest brother, the rightful King of Raithe. The longer Aurelia is with the three brothers, the more she realizes she doesn’t belong in the human realm…
I was honoured to receive an ARC of this and congrats to our beloved bookstagram queen on her debut novel! The Golden Key is a dark fantasy romance, inspired by Goldilocks and the Three Bears and perfect for fans of Gild. Our main character, Aurelia, goes through a journey of both healing and revenge, all while discovering her true identity and finding her purpose. Maddox is a fantastic book boyfriend, but I think Fox was my favourite of the brothers. Honourable mention to Xav, of course! There’s witches, magic and sizzling spice - what more do you need?
Aurelia escapes from her abusive family and fiancee and flees into the woods. Stumbling upon a cabin, she meets the three brothers who live there. It soon becomes clear that Aurelia is exactly who they need to return to their home - Raithe, a kingdom not of this world. Eager to help her saviours, Aurelia begins to learn about herself and her past - leading to an entanglement with their oldest brother, the rightful King of Raithe. The longer Aurelia is with the three brothers, the more she realizes she doesn’t belong in the human realm…
I was honoured to receive an ARC of this and congrats to our beloved bookstagram queen on her debut novel! The Golden Key is a dark fantasy romance, inspired by Goldilocks and the Three Bears and perfect for fans of Gild. Our main character, Aurelia, goes through a journey of both healing and revenge, all while discovering her true identity and finding her purpose. Maddox is a fantastic book boyfriend, but I think Fox was my favourite of the brothers. Honourable mention to Xav, of course! There’s witches, magic and sizzling spice - what more do you need?
May 1, 2024
I got this book as the author made it free on kindle for one day. Who doesn’t love a free book?
I feel I need to give her grace as this is her debut however, I found there to be many issues with this book.
For one, awkward word use. There were a lot of instances where the words used were simply incorrect.
Additionally, I found her to be very repetitive. I can’t begin to tell you the amount of times the author mentioned the fact that the main character had blue eyes…we get it. This on top of how many times “broken soul” was mentioned. She also kept repeating the same shit about the brothers making sure Aurelia had a choice.
The relationship between Maddox and Aurelia was just weird from the start. I feel the author gave away too much of their emotions in the beginning. He acted like he hated her but was in love with her from the moment he saw her?? They both were already infatuated with the other by the beginning of the book so by the time they got down and dirty, it was anticlimactic.
The “war” that they were all gearing up for was also anticlimactic. They literally gathered their armies and did all this planning for Eva to scream at a witch and melt her and it was over…just like that.
Other than the poor writing, I didn’t even have to go to the author’s IG page to know that she was a SJM fan. The similarities just screamed at you all throughout the book.
In conclusion , I don’t think I will be reading anything else from CG.
I feel I need to give her grace as this is her debut however, I found there to be many issues with this book.
For one, awkward word use. There were a lot of instances where the words used were simply incorrect.
Additionally, I found her to be very repetitive. I can’t begin to tell you the amount of times the author mentioned the fact that the main character had blue eyes…we get it. This on top of how many times “broken soul” was mentioned. She also kept repeating the same shit about the brothers making sure Aurelia had a choice.
The relationship between Maddox and Aurelia was just weird from the start. I feel the author gave away too much of their emotions in the beginning. He acted like he hated her but was in love with her from the moment he saw her?? They both were already infatuated with the other by the beginning of the book so by the time they got down and dirty, it was anticlimactic.
The “war” that they were all gearing up for was also anticlimactic. They literally gathered their armies and did all this planning for Eva to scream at a witch and melt her and it was over…just like that.
Other than the poor writing, I didn’t even have to go to the author’s IG page to know that she was a SJM fan. The similarities just screamed at you all throughout the book.
In conclusion , I don’t think I will be reading anything else from CG.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 5, 2023
This book is going to be amazing! I can’t wait to read it ❤️
November 24, 2022
So bloody excited for this book 😍
Want to read
November 24, 2022I'm so excited to read this!!
August 30, 2023
When there is nothing left of me but ash, I will love you.
5/5 stars 3/5 spice !
I have to say, I should have DEVOURED this ARC. It absolutely captivated me, but work and life did get ahead of me so I am posting this review after the release date. This review is genuine and as spoiler free as I could be.
The Golden Key is a standalone dark fantasy romance with a light retelling of Goldilocks and the Three bears.
Please read the TW’s for The Golden Key as there are heavy themes of trauma and abuse in the past tense, death of family members (parents), and some violence. As a reader that has no issues with TW’s and loves a darker romance book this one was more of a grey romance in my opinion, most of the trauma is spoken about in past tense. Still please take any warnings seriously if you’re sensitive to those themes. 🖤
———————-
The Golden Key was a wonderfully paced fantasy read. The book is rather thick and comes to a beautiful conclusion as a standalone read. The plot was a gradual incline of events that was paced so well and perfectly detailed. Cass Geller really took her time planning it all out and it shows within the writing.
I have read plenty of books recently where the pacing felt off or important details seemed brushed over, The Golden Key did not miss a single thing. The growth and development from with her characters from the start of the book to the end was a beautiful enthralling story.
The world building and magic within The Golden Key fit so well with the overarching plot. I’m a sucker for elemental magic and new realms & this book has both. The Three Bears are forced into a curse keeping them from their rightful home & a lone woman finally escaping her abuser uses them as her sanctuary. The book continues into an adventure and discovery to get the bears to reclaim their country’s throne with the help of their new Golden Haired thief.
The ✨healing✨ this gave me felt like free therapy and I cannot emphasize that enough.
Aurelia is an absolutely stunning, curvy, woman that takes her life back into her own hands. & maybe into the hands of some unsuspecting men. Her character arc was extremely well done and the moments of her anxiety & panic were also something I deeply could relate to. Healing from her past is a continuous thing and does not come quickly on paper, its relatable and so real.
The Bears, Maddox, Xav & Fox are the new standard for men. The amount of mental check ins, and CONSENT these men gave Aurelia was admirable and easily one of my favorite parts about TGK. Xav is the sweet “mother” of the home, an empath & connects with Aurelia on his own unique level of emotional maturity. Fox is the spitfire, banter, giving strength and dedication to training I absolutely LOVED. His character audibly made me laugh so many times.
& Mads, the grumpy angry one that of course turns into a complete puddle when a woman flips his world upside down. I fell in love with his character so quickly even with all the attitude. His growth and arc seamlessly happened alongside Aurelia and their story together is a beautiful thing. The consent and patience this man had, raised the damn bar. I do wish we got to see a little more of The Bears’ magic in action packed scenes but the perspective we got from Mads was great.
All the characters that developed further along in the story became vital and had importance to Aurelia. I enjoyed reading this all the way to the end as the found family developed and took back what was rightfully theirs. Blood is not always deserving of your peace and The Golden Key was a wonderfully captivating read about recovery, mental health and picking your own family.
I recommend you to add The Golden Key to your list if you enjoy:
- story retellings
- elemental magic
- dislike to lovers
- a slower burn
- A Good Boy moment 👀
- found family
- recovering from trauma
- trusting your intuition
🤍
5/5 stars 3/5 spice !
I have to say, I should have DEVOURED this ARC. It absolutely captivated me, but work and life did get ahead of me so I am posting this review after the release date. This review is genuine and as spoiler free as I could be.
The Golden Key is a standalone dark fantasy romance with a light retelling of Goldilocks and the Three bears.
Please read the TW’s for The Golden Key as there are heavy themes of trauma and abuse in the past tense, death of family members (parents), and some violence. As a reader that has no issues with TW’s and loves a darker romance book this one was more of a grey romance in my opinion, most of the trauma is spoken about in past tense. Still please take any warnings seriously if you’re sensitive to those themes. 🖤
———————-
The Golden Key was a wonderfully paced fantasy read. The book is rather thick and comes to a beautiful conclusion as a standalone read. The plot was a gradual incline of events that was paced so well and perfectly detailed. Cass Geller really took her time planning it all out and it shows within the writing.
I have read plenty of books recently where the pacing felt off or important details seemed brushed over, The Golden Key did not miss a single thing. The growth and development from with her characters from the start of the book to the end was a beautiful enthralling story.
The world building and magic within The Golden Key fit so well with the overarching plot. I’m a sucker for elemental magic and new realms & this book has both. The Three Bears are forced into a curse keeping them from their rightful home & a lone woman finally escaping her abuser uses them as her sanctuary. The book continues into an adventure and discovery to get the bears to reclaim their country’s throne with the help of their new Golden Haired thief.
The ✨healing✨ this gave me felt like free therapy and I cannot emphasize that enough.
Aurelia is an absolutely stunning, curvy, woman that takes her life back into her own hands. & maybe into the hands of some unsuspecting men. Her character arc was extremely well done and the moments of her anxiety & panic were also something I deeply could relate to. Healing from her past is a continuous thing and does not come quickly on paper, its relatable and so real.
The Bears, Maddox, Xav & Fox are the new standard for men. The amount of mental check ins, and CONSENT these men gave Aurelia was admirable and easily one of my favorite parts about TGK. Xav is the sweet “mother” of the home, an empath & connects with Aurelia on his own unique level of emotional maturity. Fox is the spitfire, banter, giving strength and dedication to training I absolutely LOVED. His character audibly made me laugh so many times.
& Mads, the grumpy angry one that of course turns into a complete puddle when a woman flips his world upside down. I fell in love with his character so quickly even with all the attitude. His growth and arc seamlessly happened alongside Aurelia and their story together is a beautiful thing. The consent and patience this man had, raised the damn bar. I do wish we got to see a little more of The Bears’ magic in action packed scenes but the perspective we got from Mads was great.
All the characters that developed further along in the story became vital and had importance to Aurelia. I enjoyed reading this all the way to the end as the found family developed and took back what was rightfully theirs. Blood is not always deserving of your peace and The Golden Key was a wonderfully captivating read about recovery, mental health and picking your own family.
I recommend you to add The Golden Key to your list if you enjoy:
- story retellings
- elemental magic
- dislike to lovers
- a slower burn
- A Good Boy moment 👀
- found family
- recovering from trauma
- trusting your intuition
🤍
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