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Rapunzel
Rapunzel longs to experience the world outside. After ten years of imprisonment under the care of her great aunt, the monotony of her life is finally broken when a handsome young man named Brendan climbs into her tower. And over time, they—of course—fall in love.Then her great aunt finds out.When neither her great aunt nor Brendan return for weeks, she cuts her hair and rescues herself from the tower. All alone, she sets out to find the man she loves, and in the process finds herself.
180 pages, Paperback
First published January 6, 2012
11 people are currently reading
207 people want to read
About the author
Jessica Kaye
5 books13 followersJessica Kaye is an author of science fiction and fantasy closed-door romance.
Her book "Beyond the Wall" was a Finalist in the 2024 Wishing Shelf Book Awards, as well as a Finalist in the 19th Annual National Indie Excellence Awards
An American military brat, Jessica Kaye moved to Florida when she was seventeen to earn an illustration degree from the Ringling School of Art and Design.
As an artist, she dabbles in many mediums, including sculpture, painting, embroidery, pies, and drawing dinosaurs.
She lives in central Florida with her husband and two children.
To sign up for her weekly newsletter for author insights and updates, sign up on her website.
Her book "Beyond the Wall" was a Finalist in the 2024 Wishing Shelf Book Awards, as well as a Finalist in the 19th Annual National Indie Excellence Awards
An American military brat, Jessica Kaye moved to Florida when she was seventeen to earn an illustration degree from the Ringling School of Art and Design.
As an artist, she dabbles in many mediums, including sculpture, painting, embroidery, pies, and drawing dinosaurs.
She lives in central Florida with her husband and two children.
To sign up for her weekly newsletter for author insights and updates, sign up on her website.
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Displaying 1 - 13 of 13 reviews
April 12, 2012
Originally featured on www.yareads.com, reviewed by Nichole
As in the old fairy tale, Rapunzel has floor length blond hair that she uses to help her aunt climb up to the tower she has been enslaved in. She has seen no other human being, besides her aunt, since she was a little girl. For her own protection, Granny Aunt has locked Rapunzel in a remote tower, where no human being shall ever come across her.
Eventually, Rapunzel meets a handsome gentleman, Brendan. Seeing as Rapunzel was a child the last time she was around a grown man, she has no idea what to think or feel. Taking a risk, though, Rapunzel allows Brendan to climb her hair into the tower, where they fall almost instantly in love. Soon, though, Granny Aunt discovers the love affair and forbids Rapunzel to ever see the mysterious Brendan again. Torn between her love for Brendan and her loyalty to Granny Aunt, Rapunzel secludes herself into her tower, refusing to speak to Brendan again.
After weeks of no notice of Brendan or Granny Aunt, Rapunzel soon realizes that she needs to either leave her tower or risk starvation. Venturing into the unknown, Rapunzel soon finds herself in the nearest city, discovering there are hundreds of men named Brendan and that Granny Aunt has fallen ill. In this unique version of a fairy tale, Rapunzel finds herself in a battle of self-identity. She must find out who she is, start a new life and search for her one true love. Through many twists and turns, battles and discoveries, Rapunzel’s life is turned upside down, and it is up to her alone to make it right.
When I first received Rapunzel, I was nervous that I was not going to like it. The cover is not flashy and the description made me feel like I was about to read a not so great remake of the fairy tale I had grown up with. So, it sat underneath my large To-Be-Read pile, waiting for me to finally pick it up. When I finally started reading Rapunzel, I began to regret the fact that I ever placed such a judgement upon it. I soon found that it was unique, light, and overall addicting.
From the moment the book starts, it is easy to notice the differences between the original version of Rapunzel and this new remake. As I said before, I was nervous that Jessica Kaye had just remade a choppy version of the original story. However, this version of Rapunzel is her own unique story. In this book, one learns about Rapunzel’s love life, and follows her around the city once she’s broken free. It became a habit of mine to want to sit back and watch her make friends, get a new job, and witness all the life lessons she had to learn so late in life. There was nothing boring or ridiculous about this book. It was simply a good read and well worth it.
My only complaint about this book was how predictable it was. I had already guessed everything that was going to happen long before it occurred. At the same time, though, this book almost called for that sort of set up. Rapunzel is not a story to challenge one’s mind or to leave one wondering. Instead, it is a light, romantic read that one is supposed to enjoy throughout. In the end, it did not matter that I had guessed everything that was going to happen. Jessica Kaye’s writing style was too enjoyable to get upset over such a simple thing.
By the end of the book, I found myself sad that it was over. I found myself wanting to read more about Rapunzel’s life and crazy adventures. Even though this book does not come with a flashy, glossy cover, or a great description, the book completely held on to my attention. I would recommend this book to people of all ages. Before I read this book, my 50 year old aunt had the chance to read it. She, too, did not believe she would like this book. However, she loved it so much that there is a possibility she liked it more than I did. That just goes to show that it is possible for anyone to like this book, and I would highly recommend they do so. I hope Jessica Kaye decides to write more stories following Rapunzel’s adventures, and I would greatly enjoy reading more about her.
As in the old fairy tale, Rapunzel has floor length blond hair that she uses to help her aunt climb up to the tower she has been enslaved in. She has seen no other human being, besides her aunt, since she was a little girl. For her own protection, Granny Aunt has locked Rapunzel in a remote tower, where no human being shall ever come across her.
Eventually, Rapunzel meets a handsome gentleman, Brendan. Seeing as Rapunzel was a child the last time she was around a grown man, she has no idea what to think or feel. Taking a risk, though, Rapunzel allows Brendan to climb her hair into the tower, where they fall almost instantly in love. Soon, though, Granny Aunt discovers the love affair and forbids Rapunzel to ever see the mysterious Brendan again. Torn between her love for Brendan and her loyalty to Granny Aunt, Rapunzel secludes herself into her tower, refusing to speak to Brendan again.
After weeks of no notice of Brendan or Granny Aunt, Rapunzel soon realizes that she needs to either leave her tower or risk starvation. Venturing into the unknown, Rapunzel soon finds herself in the nearest city, discovering there are hundreds of men named Brendan and that Granny Aunt has fallen ill. In this unique version of a fairy tale, Rapunzel finds herself in a battle of self-identity. She must find out who she is, start a new life and search for her one true love. Through many twists and turns, battles and discoveries, Rapunzel’s life is turned upside down, and it is up to her alone to make it right.
When I first received Rapunzel, I was nervous that I was not going to like it. The cover is not flashy and the description made me feel like I was about to read a not so great remake of the fairy tale I had grown up with. So, it sat underneath my large To-Be-Read pile, waiting for me to finally pick it up. When I finally started reading Rapunzel, I began to regret the fact that I ever placed such a judgement upon it. I soon found that it was unique, light, and overall addicting.
From the moment the book starts, it is easy to notice the differences between the original version of Rapunzel and this new remake. As I said before, I was nervous that Jessica Kaye had just remade a choppy version of the original story. However, this version of Rapunzel is her own unique story. In this book, one learns about Rapunzel’s love life, and follows her around the city once she’s broken free. It became a habit of mine to want to sit back and watch her make friends, get a new job, and witness all the life lessons she had to learn so late in life. There was nothing boring or ridiculous about this book. It was simply a good read and well worth it.
My only complaint about this book was how predictable it was. I had already guessed everything that was going to happen long before it occurred. At the same time, though, this book almost called for that sort of set up. Rapunzel is not a story to challenge one’s mind or to leave one wondering. Instead, it is a light, romantic read that one is supposed to enjoy throughout. In the end, it did not matter that I had guessed everything that was going to happen. Jessica Kaye’s writing style was too enjoyable to get upset over such a simple thing.
By the end of the book, I found myself sad that it was over. I found myself wanting to read more about Rapunzel’s life and crazy adventures. Even though this book does not come with a flashy, glossy cover, or a great description, the book completely held on to my attention. I would recommend this book to people of all ages. Before I read this book, my 50 year old aunt had the chance to read it. She, too, did not believe she would like this book. However, she loved it so much that there is a possibility she liked it more than I did. That just goes to show that it is possible for anyone to like this book, and I would highly recommend they do so. I hope Jessica Kaye decides to write more stories following Rapunzel’s adventures, and I would greatly enjoy reading more about her.
June 5, 2015
When I was a kid, Rapunzel was my favorite fairy tale. I thought it was amazing how she grew her hair so long, and wanted to grow my hair long, and be just like her. Needless to say, that didn't work out. Even as an adult, I love reading fairy tale retelling about Rapunzel. When I saw Rapunzel by Jessica Kaye on Goodreads, I knew I had to request it for review. I'm so glad that the author approved me to review it. I really enjoyed the story.
Jessica Kaye put an interesting twist on the Rapunzel story. It made the reader think about it more deeply. For instance, in the original story, everyone thinks the old lady is a horrible person for keeping Rapunzel in the tower, and that she's evil. I don't want to go into too much detail because I don't want to spoil anything for those that may not have read it, but in Jessica Kaye's Rapunzel, you learn that might not have been the truth with Granny Aunt, and that things might be different than what they seem.
I have to admit that I found the story predictable, but that's not necessarily a bad thing. Shortly after we meet Brendan, I guessed who he was, and I guessed correctly. I also knew what was happening with Rosemary and Theodore before it was revealed. However, none of that took away from the story line. I still found it to be a cute, fun read. I actually enjoyed it so much that I finished it one sitting, which is unusual for me.
I really enjoyed Jessica Kaye's version of Rapunzel. I am excited to read Rapunzel's Prince and find out what happened the whole time he was gone. I hope that Jessica Kaye writes more fairy tale retellings in the future. If she does, I will definitely buy them.
Jessica Kaye put an interesting twist on the Rapunzel story. It made the reader think about it more deeply. For instance, in the original story, everyone thinks the old lady is a horrible person for keeping Rapunzel in the tower, and that she's evil. I don't want to go into too much detail because I don't want to spoil anything for those that may not have read it, but in Jessica Kaye's Rapunzel, you learn that might not have been the truth with Granny Aunt, and that things might be different than what they seem.
I have to admit that I found the story predictable, but that's not necessarily a bad thing. Shortly after we meet Brendan, I guessed who he was, and I guessed correctly. I also knew what was happening with Rosemary and Theodore before it was revealed. However, none of that took away from the story line. I still found it to be a cute, fun read. I actually enjoyed it so much that I finished it one sitting, which is unusual for me.
I really enjoyed Jessica Kaye's version of Rapunzel. I am excited to read Rapunzel's Prince and find out what happened the whole time he was gone. I hope that Jessica Kaye writes more fairy tale retellings in the future. If she does, I will definitely buy them.
June 9, 2012
I loved this book. The author did an excellent job in retelling the familiar fairytale.
February 4, 2016
I really loved reading this book and Jessica Kaye's retelling of Rapunzel. I wish I had read it sooner! The only thing bad to say about this book is I wish the epilogue was longer!!
November 1, 2013
It’s a tale we all know. Boy sees girl locked in a tower. Learns the only way to get to her is climb her braid. He climbs her hair. They fall in love. The old witch of a captor gets mad and says they will never see each other again. Then girl gets left in tower for two weeks and rescues herself by cutting her braid and climbing down her own hair to avoid starvation.
And that’s only the first few chapters.
Rapunzel Jessica Kaye’s “Rapunzel” isn’t a completely faithful retelling. However, it is an interesting take on the classic story. But is it worth the $2.99 it currently costs at the Kindle store.
First I will grade the elements of the book and then give my overall grade.
Cover: C+
The cover does illustrate the content perfectly, but it looks like cheaply made clip art. If Ms. Kaye can afford it, paying an artist to draw a more eye-catching image would be helpful for the next edition.
Title: B-
Maybe a marketing department at a publisher could not have come up with a better title, but when I looked up the book on Kindle dozens of Rapunzels popped up. So the title doesn’t make the book standout.
Okay, I’ll stop judging the book by its cover.
Plot: B-
The first few chapters follow the classic tale. I found them the hardest to get through; however, this book is intended for young girls. Twelve-year-old girls might enjoy the budding romance between Rapunzel and Brendan more than I did. About a fifth way into the book, Rapunzel leaves the tower and the story starts to pick up. The pacing is decent until the end when it jumps to breakneck speeds. Thrilling though the end maybe, it comes out of nowhere and stops abruptly. Perhaps foreshadowing and expanding the end a bit would have resolved this issue. Overall the plot isn’t bad, but Ms. Kaye does need to practice pacing a bit more.
Characters: C
Sadly, the characters are the weakest element of the story.
All of the characters are bland, except Granny Aunt, who I found disturbing.
Let’s start with the narrator and main character Rapunzel. Rapunzel is a sweet girl, who loves sewing, hair care, and reading. She forgives anyone who harmed her, until the end. She is naïve, which makes sense since she has been trapped in a tower for most of her life. Still some of her choices are questionable. She has been taught her whole life that men are evil, but when Brendan climbs the tower and enters her room she doesn’t scream and freak out. She thinks he’s cute and has a nice chat with him. I would have liked to see a bit more of a reaction from her.
Until the end she has very little conflict with anyone. As I mentioned, she gets along great with Brendan from the moment she meets him. When she realizes her Granny Aunt was wrong for locking her up most of her life, she forgives her and never has any resentment. When she escapes her tower, she makes friends quickly and makes her way up through the levels of society, from peasant to lady-in-waiting for a princess, with few problems. There are some characters in brief scenes that turn their noses up in disapproval, but they cause Rapunzel no problems and are soon forgotten.
Another serious issue is Rapunzel’s voice. The story is told in first person point of view. Therefore Rapunzel tells us her story in her own words. In the early chapters of the book, Rapunzel doesn’t have much of a personality. Fortunately, as the book goes along Rapunzel does finally discover a voice, still bland but distinctive. I’m not certain if Rapunzel’s isolated childhood or Ms. Kaye’s lack of knowledge about Rapunzel is the cause of the vague voice of the early chapters. Either way, it would have been nice if the personality of the later chapters had been applied to the earlier chapters as well.
Brendan is a noble hero and all around nice guy. I’m glad he wasn’t the focus of the story, partly because of the theme of the book, and partly because he wasn’t very interesting either. If you have ever watched any of the old Disney movies, think of the personalities of the princes in those movies and you will know what Brendan is like. Having Brendan tell the reader exposition about his family and background in chapter two, does not give him a personality. Jessica Kaye will be publishing a sequel all about where Brendan was during Rapunzel’s story. Hopefully, he will be more engaging in his own book.
Rapunzel has several friends she meets throughout the story who help her along the way. Most of them seem to meld together, all of them squealing with glee at various successes. None of them particularly stand out, but their interaction with Rapunzel is enjoyable. I can see young teenage girls reading this story and imagining themselves hanging out with Rapunzel and friends as they search for the missing Brendan.
The only character I didn’t like was Rapunzel’s guardian/jailor Granny Aunt. Unlike the traditional story, Rapunzel’s captor is not a witch. Instead she is the main character’s great aunt, who took her in when her parents died. I think an attempt was made for the reader to relate and sympathize with the old bat. Perhaps this works for other readers, but not for me. Granny Aunt decided to lock her great-niece in a tower because a person commented that Rapunzel would attract boys one day. Well Granny Aunt couldn’t have that because all men are evil. Granny Aunt feels all men are evil because… her sister got dumped once… maybe? Her motivation isn’t ever really explained. If Granny Aunt truly despised all men, then why didn’t she live in the tower with Rapunzel?
However, that isn’t the reason I disliked the character. So after Granny Aunt shoos Brendan off and tells Rapunzel to never let him up again, she gets sick and leaves Rapunzel trapped in the tower until her niece must save herself. Why didn’t she tell anyone, “My niece is trapped in the woods and running low on food. Could you send her food or perhaps save her?”
And then when Rapunzel comes to Granny Aunt’s death bed, is her Granny Aunt happy to see her alive, well, and with her again? Nope. She flips out and yells at her. Then the next day after smiling at Rapunzel once, never telling her why she imprisoned her most of her life, she dies. I would have been more satisfied with a witch.
World building/Setting: B
Ms. Kaye does an excellent job of drawing the reader into the story. I was in the tower with Rapunzel, in the forest with her, and walking beside her all during her journey from the town to the palace.
The only had an issue with the magic of the story. Now, it’s possible as you read through this story you will wonder where the magic I speak of is. Rapunzel’s captor is not a witch and no one else in the story seems to have magical powers. Oh, Rapunzel does. Rapunzel has magic hair. Not only does she have enough hair to provide a climbing rope, something that it would realistically take a normal woman 178 years to grow. Not only has her Granny Aunt sold enough of Rapunzel’s extra hair over the years to supply the entire royal court with wigs. After Rapunzel hacks her hair short, she is still able to grow it into a long train of hair within months. This magic is never explained. Now one could argue this is a book for young girls. Who cares? Fair enough, but I think it would have been nice to know how Rapunzel’s hair developed this power.
Theme: B
Don’t wait for someone to save you. Save yourself and make something of yourself. I think this is a good lesson for young girls. The theme is the very reason I have recommended this book to my 9-year-old niece.
Grammar/Style/Word Usage: B-
This book was edited, but even still perhaps one more proofread would have caught a few mistakes here and there.
Price/Availability: C+
The book is worth the cost, but it is only available at Amazon on the Kindle or in print. (This grade does not affect the overall grade.)
Overall Grade: B-
Not bad for a first book. If you have a girl in your home, aged 8 to 12, I recommend giving her this book. She’ll enjoy it.
And that’s only the first few chapters.
Rapunzel Jessica Kaye’s “Rapunzel” isn’t a completely faithful retelling. However, it is an interesting take on the classic story. But is it worth the $2.99 it currently costs at the Kindle store.
First I will grade the elements of the book and then give my overall grade.
Cover: C+
The cover does illustrate the content perfectly, but it looks like cheaply made clip art. If Ms. Kaye can afford it, paying an artist to draw a more eye-catching image would be helpful for the next edition.
Title: B-
Maybe a marketing department at a publisher could not have come up with a better title, but when I looked up the book on Kindle dozens of Rapunzels popped up. So the title doesn’t make the book standout.
Okay, I’ll stop judging the book by its cover.
Plot: B-
The first few chapters follow the classic tale. I found them the hardest to get through; however, this book is intended for young girls. Twelve-year-old girls might enjoy the budding romance between Rapunzel and Brendan more than I did. About a fifth way into the book, Rapunzel leaves the tower and the story starts to pick up. The pacing is decent until the end when it jumps to breakneck speeds. Thrilling though the end maybe, it comes out of nowhere and stops abruptly. Perhaps foreshadowing and expanding the end a bit would have resolved this issue. Overall the plot isn’t bad, but Ms. Kaye does need to practice pacing a bit more.
Characters: C
Sadly, the characters are the weakest element of the story.
All of the characters are bland, except Granny Aunt, who I found disturbing.
Let’s start with the narrator and main character Rapunzel. Rapunzel is a sweet girl, who loves sewing, hair care, and reading. She forgives anyone who harmed her, until the end. She is naïve, which makes sense since she has been trapped in a tower for most of her life. Still some of her choices are questionable. She has been taught her whole life that men are evil, but when Brendan climbs the tower and enters her room she doesn’t scream and freak out. She thinks he’s cute and has a nice chat with him. I would have liked to see a bit more of a reaction from her.
Until the end she has very little conflict with anyone. As I mentioned, she gets along great with Brendan from the moment she meets him. When she realizes her Granny Aunt was wrong for locking her up most of her life, she forgives her and never has any resentment. When she escapes her tower, she makes friends quickly and makes her way up through the levels of society, from peasant to lady-in-waiting for a princess, with few problems. There are some characters in brief scenes that turn their noses up in disapproval, but they cause Rapunzel no problems and are soon forgotten.
Another serious issue is Rapunzel’s voice. The story is told in first person point of view. Therefore Rapunzel tells us her story in her own words. In the early chapters of the book, Rapunzel doesn’t have much of a personality. Fortunately, as the book goes along Rapunzel does finally discover a voice, still bland but distinctive. I’m not certain if Rapunzel’s isolated childhood or Ms. Kaye’s lack of knowledge about Rapunzel is the cause of the vague voice of the early chapters. Either way, it would have been nice if the personality of the later chapters had been applied to the earlier chapters as well.
Brendan is a noble hero and all around nice guy. I’m glad he wasn’t the focus of the story, partly because of the theme of the book, and partly because he wasn’t very interesting either. If you have ever watched any of the old Disney movies, think of the personalities of the princes in those movies and you will know what Brendan is like. Having Brendan tell the reader exposition about his family and background in chapter two, does not give him a personality. Jessica Kaye will be publishing a sequel all about where Brendan was during Rapunzel’s story. Hopefully, he will be more engaging in his own book.
Rapunzel has several friends she meets throughout the story who help her along the way. Most of them seem to meld together, all of them squealing with glee at various successes. None of them particularly stand out, but their interaction with Rapunzel is enjoyable. I can see young teenage girls reading this story and imagining themselves hanging out with Rapunzel and friends as they search for the missing Brendan.
The only character I didn’t like was Rapunzel’s guardian/jailor Granny Aunt. Unlike the traditional story, Rapunzel’s captor is not a witch. Instead she is the main character’s great aunt, who took her in when her parents died. I think an attempt was made for the reader to relate and sympathize with the old bat. Perhaps this works for other readers, but not for me. Granny Aunt decided to lock her great-niece in a tower because a person commented that Rapunzel would attract boys one day. Well Granny Aunt couldn’t have that because all men are evil. Granny Aunt feels all men are evil because… her sister got dumped once… maybe? Her motivation isn’t ever really explained. If Granny Aunt truly despised all men, then why didn’t she live in the tower with Rapunzel?
However, that isn’t the reason I disliked the character. So after Granny Aunt shoos Brendan off and tells Rapunzel to never let him up again, she gets sick and leaves Rapunzel trapped in the tower until her niece must save herself. Why didn’t she tell anyone, “My niece is trapped in the woods and running low on food. Could you send her food or perhaps save her?”
And then when Rapunzel comes to Granny Aunt’s death bed, is her Granny Aunt happy to see her alive, well, and with her again? Nope. She flips out and yells at her. Then the next day after smiling at Rapunzel once, never telling her why she imprisoned her most of her life, she dies. I would have been more satisfied with a witch.
World building/Setting: B
Ms. Kaye does an excellent job of drawing the reader into the story. I was in the tower with Rapunzel, in the forest with her, and walking beside her all during her journey from the town to the palace.
The only had an issue with the magic of the story. Now, it’s possible as you read through this story you will wonder where the magic I speak of is. Rapunzel’s captor is not a witch and no one else in the story seems to have magical powers. Oh, Rapunzel does. Rapunzel has magic hair. Not only does she have enough hair to provide a climbing rope, something that it would realistically take a normal woman 178 years to grow. Not only has her Granny Aunt sold enough of Rapunzel’s extra hair over the years to supply the entire royal court with wigs. After Rapunzel hacks her hair short, she is still able to grow it into a long train of hair within months. This magic is never explained. Now one could argue this is a book for young girls. Who cares? Fair enough, but I think it would have been nice to know how Rapunzel’s hair developed this power.
Theme: B
Don’t wait for someone to save you. Save yourself and make something of yourself. I think this is a good lesson for young girls. The theme is the very reason I have recommended this book to my 9-year-old niece.
Grammar/Style/Word Usage: B-
This book was edited, but even still perhaps one more proofread would have caught a few mistakes here and there.
Price/Availability: C+
The book is worth the cost, but it is only available at Amazon on the Kindle or in print. (This grade does not affect the overall grade.)
Overall Grade: B-
Not bad for a first book. If you have a girl in your home, aged 8 to 12, I recommend giving her this book. She’ll enjoy it.
April 7, 2012
Rapunzel longs to experience the world outside. After ten years of imprisonment under the care of her well-meaning great aunt, the monotony of her life is finally broken when a handsome young man named Brendan climbs into her tower. But when Granny Aunt finds out, she forbids him to visit Rapunzel. Even though Brendan continues to call her from the base of her tower, Rapunzel refuses to acknowledge him, confused and caught between her loyalty to Granny Aunt and her desire for more out of life.
When neither Granny Aunt nor Brendan show up for several weeks, Rapunzel realizes she must take her fate into her own hands. She leaves her tower to search not only for Granny Aunt, but Brendan, as well.
In the city, she finds Granny Aunt on her sickbed. Rapunzel must discover within herself a new kind of courage and inner strength. City life is astounding to her, and even as she continues to search for the man she loves, she begins to wonder what secrets he kept from her. Outside the city, a brewing war threatens the new life she’s built. She still can’t find Brendan, and the once-lonely Rapunzel now realizes her new friends are at risk too.
As in the old fairy tale, Rapunzel has floor length blond hair that she uses to help her aunt climb up to the tower she has been enslaved in. She has seen no other human being, besides her aunt, since she was a little girl. For her own protection, Granny Aunt has locked Rapunzel in a remote tower, where no human being shall ever come across her.
Eventually, Rapunzel meets a handsome gentleman, Brendan. Seeing as Rapunzel was a child the last time she was around a grown man, she has no idea what to think or feel. Taking a risk, though, Rapunzel allows Brendan to climb her hair into the tower, where they fall almost instantly in love. Soon, though, Granny Aunt discovers the love affair and forbids Rapunzel to ever see the mysterious Brendan again. Torn between her love for Brendan and her loyalty to Granny Aunt, Rapunzel secludes herself into her tower, refusing to speak to Brendan again.
After weeks of no notice of Brendan or Granny Aunt, Rapunzel soon realizes that she needs to either leave her tower or risk starvation. Venturing into the unknown, Rapunzel soon finds herself in the nearest city, discovering there are hundreds of men named Brendan and that Granny Aunt has fallen ill. In this unique version of a fairy tale, Rapunzel finds herself in a battle of self-identity. She must find out who she is, start a new life and search for her one true love. Through many twists and turns, battles and discoveries, Rapunzel’s life is turned upside down, and it is up to her alone to make it right.
When I first received Rapunzel, I was nervous that I was not going to like it. The cover is not flashy and the description made me feel like I was about to read a not so great remake of the fairy tale I had grown up with. So, it sat underneath my large To-Be-Read pile, waiting for me to finally pick it up. When I finally started reading Rapunzel, I began to regret the fact that I ever placed such a judgement upon it. I soon found that it was unique, light, and overall addicting.
From the moment the book starts, it is easy to notice the differences between the original version of Rapunzel and this new remake. As I said before, I was nervous that Jessica Kaye had just remade a choppy version of the original story. However, this version of Rapunzel is her own unique story. In this book, one learns about Rapunzel’s love life, and follows her around the city once she’s broken free. It became a habit of mine to want to sit back and watch her make friends, get a new job, and witness all the life lessons she had to learn so late in life. There was nothing boring or ridiculous about this book. It was simply a good read and well worth it.
My only complaint about this book was how predictable it was. I had already guessed everything that was going to happen long before it occurred. At the same time, though, this book almost called for that sort of set up. Rapunzel is not a story to challenge one’s mind or to leave one wondering. Instead, it is a light, romantic read that one is supposed to enjoy throughout. In the end, it did not matter that I had guessed everything that was going to happen. Jessica Kaye’s writing style was too enjoyable to get upset over such a simple thing.
By the end of the book, I found myself sad that it was over. I found myself wanting to read more about Rapunzel’s life and crazy adventures. Even though this book does not come with a flashy, glossy cover, or a great description, the book completely held on to my attention. I would recommend this book to people of all ages. Before I read this book, my 50 year old aunt had the chance to read it. She, too, did not believe she would like this book. However, she loved it so much that there is a possibility she liked it more than I did. That just goes to show that it is possible for anyone to like this book, and I would highly recommend they do so. I hope Jessica Kaye decides to write more stories following Rapunzel’s adventures, and I would greatly enjoy reading more about her.
Pages: 180
Publication Date: January, 2012
Publisher: Createspace
Format: Finished Copy
Rating: :
Teaser Quote: “Rapunzel! Let down your hair!” Had Granny Aunt forgotten something? At least her voice sounded stronger than it had before. She must be feeling better, to want to climb again. I tied my hair and pushed it out the window again, eyes not leaving the page. It was getting to a really good part, and I knew Granny Aunt would understand. She was just as bad when it came to books. A hundred times she told me that reading was one of the most important skills a woman could have. The very first thing she ever taught me was the alphabet. She dearly loved her books, and was determined that I would love them, too. I leaned back against the wall, turning another page. “Did you forget something?” I asked, only then looking up at the figure climbing through the window. The book fell from my hands as I choked. “You’re not Granny Aunt!” A man stood in my tower.”
When neither Granny Aunt nor Brendan show up for several weeks, Rapunzel realizes she must take her fate into her own hands. She leaves her tower to search not only for Granny Aunt, but Brendan, as well.
In the city, she finds Granny Aunt on her sickbed. Rapunzel must discover within herself a new kind of courage and inner strength. City life is astounding to her, and even as she continues to search for the man she loves, she begins to wonder what secrets he kept from her. Outside the city, a brewing war threatens the new life she’s built. She still can’t find Brendan, and the once-lonely Rapunzel now realizes her new friends are at risk too.
As in the old fairy tale, Rapunzel has floor length blond hair that she uses to help her aunt climb up to the tower she has been enslaved in. She has seen no other human being, besides her aunt, since she was a little girl. For her own protection, Granny Aunt has locked Rapunzel in a remote tower, where no human being shall ever come across her.
Eventually, Rapunzel meets a handsome gentleman, Brendan. Seeing as Rapunzel was a child the last time she was around a grown man, she has no idea what to think or feel. Taking a risk, though, Rapunzel allows Brendan to climb her hair into the tower, where they fall almost instantly in love. Soon, though, Granny Aunt discovers the love affair and forbids Rapunzel to ever see the mysterious Brendan again. Torn between her love for Brendan and her loyalty to Granny Aunt, Rapunzel secludes herself into her tower, refusing to speak to Brendan again.
After weeks of no notice of Brendan or Granny Aunt, Rapunzel soon realizes that she needs to either leave her tower or risk starvation. Venturing into the unknown, Rapunzel soon finds herself in the nearest city, discovering there are hundreds of men named Brendan and that Granny Aunt has fallen ill. In this unique version of a fairy tale, Rapunzel finds herself in a battle of self-identity. She must find out who she is, start a new life and search for her one true love. Through many twists and turns, battles and discoveries, Rapunzel’s life is turned upside down, and it is up to her alone to make it right.
When I first received Rapunzel, I was nervous that I was not going to like it. The cover is not flashy and the description made me feel like I was about to read a not so great remake of the fairy tale I had grown up with. So, it sat underneath my large To-Be-Read pile, waiting for me to finally pick it up. When I finally started reading Rapunzel, I began to regret the fact that I ever placed such a judgement upon it. I soon found that it was unique, light, and overall addicting.
From the moment the book starts, it is easy to notice the differences between the original version of Rapunzel and this new remake. As I said before, I was nervous that Jessica Kaye had just remade a choppy version of the original story. However, this version of Rapunzel is her own unique story. In this book, one learns about Rapunzel’s love life, and follows her around the city once she’s broken free. It became a habit of mine to want to sit back and watch her make friends, get a new job, and witness all the life lessons she had to learn so late in life. There was nothing boring or ridiculous about this book. It was simply a good read and well worth it.
My only complaint about this book was how predictable it was. I had already guessed everything that was going to happen long before it occurred. At the same time, though, this book almost called for that sort of set up. Rapunzel is not a story to challenge one’s mind or to leave one wondering. Instead, it is a light, romantic read that one is supposed to enjoy throughout. In the end, it did not matter that I had guessed everything that was going to happen. Jessica Kaye’s writing style was too enjoyable to get upset over such a simple thing.
By the end of the book, I found myself sad that it was over. I found myself wanting to read more about Rapunzel’s life and crazy adventures. Even though this book does not come with a flashy, glossy cover, or a great description, the book completely held on to my attention. I would recommend this book to people of all ages. Before I read this book, my 50 year old aunt had the chance to read it. She, too, did not believe she would like this book. However, she loved it so much that there is a possibility she liked it more than I did. That just goes to show that it is possible for anyone to like this book, and I would highly recommend they do so. I hope Jessica Kaye decides to write more stories following Rapunzel’s adventures, and I would greatly enjoy reading more about her.
Pages: 180
Publication Date: January, 2012
Publisher: Createspace
Format: Finished Copy
Rating: :
Teaser Quote: “Rapunzel! Let down your hair!” Had Granny Aunt forgotten something? At least her voice sounded stronger than it had before. She must be feeling better, to want to climb again. I tied my hair and pushed it out the window again, eyes not leaving the page. It was getting to a really good part, and I knew Granny Aunt would understand. She was just as bad when it came to books. A hundred times she told me that reading was one of the most important skills a woman could have. The very first thing she ever taught me was the alphabet. She dearly loved her books, and was determined that I would love them, too. I leaned back against the wall, turning another page. “Did you forget something?” I asked, only then looking up at the figure climbing through the window. The book fell from my hands as I choked. “You’re not Granny Aunt!” A man stood in my tower.”
October 15, 2024
The story comes alive
Another excellent book written by Jessica Kaye..I remember as a youngster the story about Repunzel. However Jessica brings you into the story and keeps you turning the pages. It is well written and brings in details to stir the imagination . Keep up the good work, I will look forward to the next book.
Another excellent book written by Jessica Kaye..I remember as a youngster the story about Repunzel. However Jessica brings you into the story and keeps you turning the pages. It is well written and brings in details to stir the imagination . Keep up the good work, I will look forward to the next book.
July 22, 2025
I could barely put this book down and couldn’t wait to pick it back up and get lost in it again. It’s endearing, adventurous, and a fun read. Now on to read Rapunzels Prince, another book of Jessica Kaye. You won’t regret purchasing this book.
January 21, 2022
I truly enjoyed reading this book. I couldn’t put it down. A classic love story with a sweet romantic vibe and an exciting twist.
July 17, 2012
Pretty good story - although it lacked depth, it was a nice, light, summer read. I am a sucker for novelizations of fairy tales. Jessica Kaye does it nicely, and simply. The characters were a bit flat and the ending abrupt, but for anyone who likes fairytale novels, this is worth reading.
I got this book as a Goodreads giveaway.
I got this book as a Goodreads giveaway.
June 7, 2018
A beautiful retailing of a cherished fairytale.
I love how in this version of the story the witch is not really a villain and that Rapunzel not only saves herself but makes friends with his family all in her own. That by the end you know a happily ever after scenario is actually possible for this couple because his family excepts her as a part of the family.
I love how in this version of the story the witch is not really a villain and that Rapunzel not only saves herself but makes friends with his family all in her own. That by the end you know a happily ever after scenario is actually possible for this couple because his family excepts her as a part of the family.
July 3, 2012
I won this book from Goodreads First-reads. This was an easy, fast read, a little mystery and a little romance. Kaye brushes the surface of her characters, leaving the reader to fill in the gaps. I enjoyed this quick read and hope that Kaye revisits Rapunzel and takes the story to another level.
March 27, 2022
I truly enjoyed this classic with a modern twist.
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