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The Incandescent Kingdoms #6
Lost at Aurora
She’s trying to return home. He wants her to stay. But the Christmas season has magic of its own. From Sunrise Kingdom, Sefina’s only goal is to return after two years of researching humpback whale migrations. But the cold lands of Aurora have different plans for her. After a blizzard interrupts her research, she winds up at the doorstep of the chief’s home. He’s a young man she can’t have, but someone she finds herself getting dangerously closer to. As chief of Aurora, Rune knows he must marry eventually. When Sefina shows up at his home and passes all his tests, he must keep an old promise to marry an honest woman. But he has no interest in a romantic relationship. Can he get Sefina to stay while keeping his heart guarded?
“Lost at Aurora” is a retelling of the “Princess and the Pea” and is the sixth book in the Incandescent Kingdoms series. Each book can be read in order or as a standalone. With tropes like forbidden love and "he falls first," this novel is a clean and swoony romance, perfect for young adult and adult readers!
“Lost at Aurora” is a retelling of the “Princess and the Pea” and is the sixth book in the Incandescent Kingdoms series. Each book can be read in order or as a standalone. With tropes like forbidden love and "he falls first," this novel is a clean and swoony romance, perfect for young adult and adult readers!
246 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 1, 2023
5 people are currently reading
72 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 25 of 25 reviews
November 9, 2023
4.5
This is such a cozy winter story! It's based on A Princess and the Pea, and I like how creatively and realistically the author incorporated the elements of that fairy tale.
Sefina is such a positive, sweet, and cheerful person. She's also very helpful and loyal. Sometimes, even a little bit too loyal.
Rune is a bit reserved but very caring and loyal. He's afraid to get hurt again, so he's a bit careful about showing his emotions. But he's such a cinnamon roll, and I loved the parts where he loosened up a bit.
They are really cute together, with some sunshine vs. grump vibes. It was so cute how Rune 'melted' for Sefina.
I love how Sefina was embraced by all the siblings and soon felt like a part of their family.
The banter and teasing between the siblings was also funny and sweet.
The world building is beautiful, and there are some beautiful descriptive scenes about the nature and the surroundings.
So if you're looking for a story to read on a rainy or snowy day, tucked beneath a blanket with a cup of hot chocolate nearby, then this cozy, sweet, romantic story could pea a good option!
I received an e-arc from the author, but this hasn't influenced my review.
This is such a cozy winter story! It's based on A Princess and the Pea, and I like how creatively and realistically the author incorporated the elements of that fairy tale.
Sefina is such a positive, sweet, and cheerful person. She's also very helpful and loyal. Sometimes, even a little bit too loyal.
Rune is a bit reserved but very caring and loyal. He's afraid to get hurt again, so he's a bit careful about showing his emotions. But he's such a cinnamon roll, and I loved the parts where he loosened up a bit.
They are really cute together, with some sunshine vs. grump vibes. It was so cute how Rune 'melted' for Sefina.
I love how Sefina was embraced by all the siblings and soon felt like a part of their family.
The banter and teasing between the siblings was also funny and sweet.
The world building is beautiful, and there are some beautiful descriptive scenes about the nature and the surroundings.
So if you're looking for a story to read on a rainy or snowy day, tucked beneath a blanket with a cup of hot chocolate nearby, then this cozy, sweet, romantic story could pea a good option!
I received an e-arc from the author, but this hasn't influenced my review.
November 18, 2023
"Lost at Aurora: A Princess and the Pea Retelling" unfolds as a heartwarming holiday tale, skillfully blending elements of the classic fairy tale with Leialoha Humpherys' unique narrative touch. Set against the backdrop of Christmas in the cold lands of Aurora, the story introduces Sefina, a researcher from Sunrise Kingdom with the simple goal of returning home after her studies on humpback whale migrations. However, a blizzard alters her plans, leading her to Rune, the chief of Aurora, and his welcoming family.
The narrative nicely captures the essence of found family and self-discovery. Sefina's unexpected connection with Rune's siblings, marked by banter, teasing, and genuine warmth, adds depth to the story. The author expertly weaves the theme of self-worth into the characters' journeys, portraying Sefina's struggles with loyalty and Rune's cautious approach to relationships.
The delightful sibling dynamics create a cozy atmosphere, enhancing the holiday romance. Humpherys’ portrayal of Christmas traditions and the incorporation of Christian elements enrich the narrative, offering a sweet and nostalgic seasonal read. The unique take on cultures and the author's ability to seamlessly integrate them into fairy tale retellings contribute to the charm of the Incandescent Kingdoms series.
"Lost at Aurora" serves as an adorable retelling of "The Princess and the Pea," with a Christmas twist. Sefina and Rune, coming from distinct backgrounds, emerge as strong and kind-hearted characters grappling with their insecurities. Their relationship development is portrayed with a natural and delightful progression, steering clear of the pitfalls of insta-love.
While the story features some insta-love, it is presented more naturally than in the previous book, allowing the characters to question the authenticity of their connection. I would say say that Humpherys’ strong point is in character development and exploring the complexities of family relationships, evident in the well-fleshed-out portrayals of Rune's siblings.
The cozy winter setting, the positive and cheerful persona of Sefina, and Rune's reserved yet caring nature contribute to the novel's overall charm. The incorporation of elements from the original fairy tale, such as the pea in the bed, is creatively played with to build a heartwarming foundation for Rune and Sefina's relationship.
Overall, "Lost at Aurora" proves to be a good addition to the Incandescent Kingdoms series. As the sixth book in the main series, it leaves readers eager to delve into Bo and Ayane's story in "To Curse a Black Swan." Despite reaching the conclusion of the main series with this installment, the hope for more stories set in the enchanting world of the Incandescent Kingdoms lingers, showcasing the series' lasting appeal and the anticipation for future adventures.
I received a copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily - all thoughts are my own.
The narrative nicely captures the essence of found family and self-discovery. Sefina's unexpected connection with Rune's siblings, marked by banter, teasing, and genuine warmth, adds depth to the story. The author expertly weaves the theme of self-worth into the characters' journeys, portraying Sefina's struggles with loyalty and Rune's cautious approach to relationships.
The delightful sibling dynamics create a cozy atmosphere, enhancing the holiday romance. Humpherys’ portrayal of Christmas traditions and the incorporation of Christian elements enrich the narrative, offering a sweet and nostalgic seasonal read. The unique take on cultures and the author's ability to seamlessly integrate them into fairy tale retellings contribute to the charm of the Incandescent Kingdoms series.
"Lost at Aurora" serves as an adorable retelling of "The Princess and the Pea," with a Christmas twist. Sefina and Rune, coming from distinct backgrounds, emerge as strong and kind-hearted characters grappling with their insecurities. Their relationship development is portrayed with a natural and delightful progression, steering clear of the pitfalls of insta-love.
While the story features some insta-love, it is presented more naturally than in the previous book, allowing the characters to question the authenticity of their connection. I would say say that Humpherys’ strong point is in character development and exploring the complexities of family relationships, evident in the well-fleshed-out portrayals of Rune's siblings.
The cozy winter setting, the positive and cheerful persona of Sefina, and Rune's reserved yet caring nature contribute to the novel's overall charm. The incorporation of elements from the original fairy tale, such as the pea in the bed, is creatively played with to build a heartwarming foundation for Rune and Sefina's relationship.
Overall, "Lost at Aurora" proves to be a good addition to the Incandescent Kingdoms series. As the sixth book in the main series, it leaves readers eager to delve into Bo and Ayane's story in "To Curse a Black Swan." Despite reaching the conclusion of the main series with this installment, the hope for more stories set in the enchanting world of the Incandescent Kingdoms lingers, showcasing the series' lasting appeal and the anticipation for future adventures.
I received a copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily - all thoughts are my own.
October 31, 2023
This Princess and the Pea retelling has lots of cosy, winter, Christmas vibes and a sweet romance, but to be honest I can't say i totally enjoyed it.
The main characters meet and while it may not be quite fair to say they fall instantly in love, they definitely become instantly obsessed with each other. After a while the constant 'I can't stop thinking about this person but they can't possibly want anything to do with me and have other responsibilities that make us impossible anyway' just gets be too much. If the story had been a shorter novella length, it might have been less tedious.
The language is often entirely too 'modern' for the fantasy setting. For example, 'bummer' is just way too . . . 90s. It's modern slang and doesn't belong. Ill-fitting language like this tends to jar you out of enjoying the story.
The characters are celebrating Christmas, I haven't read all the other books so maybe I missed something but in the few other books I've read in this series there was no mention that Christianity was known to this fantasy world, so why are they celebrating the birth of Christ if they have no idea who/what he is? Having a Christmas-like midwinter festival or a celebration of an historical/mythical figure actually known to the world would make so much more sense.
The same with the Christmas carols they sing. How does a carol (silent night) written by an Austrian monk 200 years ago make it's way to a fantasy world with (presumably) no contact with ours? Then there's 'Angels we have heard on high' which I'm pretty sure incorporates Latin (the 'Gloria in excelsis Deo' bit), so people in a fantasy land with no contact with our world can speak Latin too? OK, making up original song lyrics to suit isn't easy, but then you could always say the characters a singing a cheerful/celebratory song and simply not give the lyrics to said song. Sometimes there is a benefit in being vague and skipping details.
It just feels like the author didn't or couldn't make the effort to fully realise their own creation and instead just pinched things from reality that didn't really fit in the setting and as a result failed to create an immersive fantasy setting.
I received an ARC and in return offer an honest review.
The main characters meet and while it may not be quite fair to say they fall instantly in love, they definitely become instantly obsessed with each other. After a while the constant 'I can't stop thinking about this person but they can't possibly want anything to do with me and have other responsibilities that make us impossible anyway' just gets be too much. If the story had been a shorter novella length, it might have been less tedious.
The language is often entirely too 'modern' for the fantasy setting. For example, 'bummer' is just way too . . . 90s. It's modern slang and doesn't belong. Ill-fitting language like this tends to jar you out of enjoying the story.
The characters are celebrating Christmas, I haven't read all the other books so maybe I missed something but in the few other books I've read in this series there was no mention that Christianity was known to this fantasy world, so why are they celebrating the birth of Christ if they have no idea who/what he is? Having a Christmas-like midwinter festival or a celebration of an historical/mythical figure actually known to the world would make so much more sense.
The same with the Christmas carols they sing. How does a carol (silent night) written by an Austrian monk 200 years ago make it's way to a fantasy world with (presumably) no contact with ours? Then there's 'Angels we have heard on high' which I'm pretty sure incorporates Latin (the 'Gloria in excelsis Deo' bit), so people in a fantasy land with no contact with our world can speak Latin too? OK, making up original song lyrics to suit isn't easy, but then you could always say the characters a singing a cheerful/celebratory song and simply not give the lyrics to said song. Sometimes there is a benefit in being vague and skipping details.
It just feels like the author didn't or couldn't make the effort to fully realise their own creation and instead just pinched things from reality that didn't really fit in the setting and as a result failed to create an immersive fantasy setting.
I received an ARC and in return offer an honest review.
November 7, 2023
Reader’s Notes:
– this is part of a series, but can be read as a stand-alone
– this is told from Sefina & Rune’s points of view
– Sefina’s parents & brothers are controlling/belittling
– Sefina is betrothed to an older chief from her home kingdom
– Rune & his siblings lost their mother to the Crimson Cough & their father to the elements
– The Crimson Cough is a sickness where the sick cough up blood (it is an issue during the events of this story with some close/main characters getting affected by it at some point)
Review:
I adored this Christmassy romance! I loved the sibling banter and teasing and that they were all themselves, even around Sefina when they barely knew her. I loved getting to know what kind of person Rune was and what his people thought of him and the work he did in their town. I loved that despite everything happening, Sefina was overall a bubbly and joyful person who brought light to everyone around her. I also really enjoyed that there was a scene where they looked at an aurora, sat by the fire (so many cozy scenes!), and had some winter fun!
Summary:
Sefina is in the middle of researching the whales of Aurora when a blizzard sets in and causes her to get lost. Thankfully in the middle of the storm she happens upon the warm and inviting cabin of the chief of Aurora, Rune, and his siblings. They invite her in, make her feel welcome, and Sefina wonders if she really wants to return to the Sunrise kingdom when the storm passes and she completes her research. Because she has never felt more at home than with this family…
Rune promised his mother that if an honorable woman passed her tests, then he would be purposeful in pursuing her with the intent of getting married to the woman. But when his siblings push Rune to enact the test on their new temporary housemate, Rune isn’t sure what he wants to result of the test to be. Having been burned before he hasn’t truly wanted to find himself a wife for some time, but something about Sefina calls to him like no one has before…
– this is part of a series, but can be read as a stand-alone
– this is told from Sefina & Rune’s points of view
– Sefina’s parents & brothers are controlling/belittling
– Sefina is betrothed to an older chief from her home kingdom
– Rune & his siblings lost their mother to the Crimson Cough & their father to the elements
– The Crimson Cough is a sickness where the sick cough up blood (it is an issue during the events of this story with some close/main characters getting affected by it at some point)
Review:
I adored this Christmassy romance! I loved the sibling banter and teasing and that they were all themselves, even around Sefina when they barely knew her. I loved getting to know what kind of person Rune was and what his people thought of him and the work he did in their town. I loved that despite everything happening, Sefina was overall a bubbly and joyful person who brought light to everyone around her. I also really enjoyed that there was a scene where they looked at an aurora, sat by the fire (so many cozy scenes!), and had some winter fun!
Summary:
Sefina is in the middle of researching the whales of Aurora when a blizzard sets in and causes her to get lost. Thankfully in the middle of the storm she happens upon the warm and inviting cabin of the chief of Aurora, Rune, and his siblings. They invite her in, make her feel welcome, and Sefina wonders if she really wants to return to the Sunrise kingdom when the storm passes and she completes her research. Because she has never felt more at home than with this family…
Rune promised his mother that if an honorable woman passed her tests, then he would be purposeful in pursuing her with the intent of getting married to the woman. But when his siblings push Rune to enact the test on their new temporary housemate, Rune isn’t sure what he wants to result of the test to be. Having been burned before he hasn’t truly wanted to find himself a wife for some time, but something about Sefina calls to him like no one has before…
April 9, 2024
Read my full review (where I rant about why I like humidity) here: https://penspagesandpulses.wordpress....
My favorite part of this book was seeing the sweet sibling relationships in Rune's family. I loved how they each knew each other and pushed them to be their best versions of themselves. And the scenes with all of Rune's siblings were my absolute FAVORITES!!!!!
I also loved the Christmassy feel of this book! A big part of what made this book feel like Christmas was the emphasis on music. In my family, music is the biggest way we celebrate Christmas, so seeing Rune's siblings sing Christmas carols together and play Christmas music together made it feel just like an authentic home-y Christmas!
I loved seeing how Sefina (the protagonist) learned to stand up for herself and follow her heart. It was beautiful seeing how she handled her family's conflicts with such grace, while making sure she was doing what was best for herself.
Finally, I love how this story kept me guessing! I thought I knew what the climactic conflict was going to be, but I was totally wrong. I loved how I got the opportunity to appreciate the author's choices of how to best grow her characters without feeling like I knew exactly what was coming.
Overall, I would definitely recommend reading this book! While it might not be Christmastime anymore (mainly because I'm a bit late reviewing this book), I still think we could use to remember Christmas all throughout the year!!!
I received a review copy of this book. My opinions are my own. A positive review was not required.
My favorite part of this book was seeing the sweet sibling relationships in Rune's family. I loved how they each knew each other and pushed them to be their best versions of themselves. And the scenes with all of Rune's siblings were my absolute FAVORITES!!!!!
I also loved the Christmassy feel of this book! A big part of what made this book feel like Christmas was the emphasis on music. In my family, music is the biggest way we celebrate Christmas, so seeing Rune's siblings sing Christmas carols together and play Christmas music together made it feel just like an authentic home-y Christmas!
I loved seeing how Sefina (the protagonist) learned to stand up for herself and follow her heart. It was beautiful seeing how she handled her family's conflicts with such grace, while making sure she was doing what was best for herself.
Finally, I love how this story kept me guessing! I thought I knew what the climactic conflict was going to be, but I was totally wrong. I loved how I got the opportunity to appreciate the author's choices of how to best grow her characters without feeling like I knew exactly what was coming.
Overall, I would definitely recommend reading this book! While it might not be Christmastime anymore (mainly because I'm a bit late reviewing this book), I still think we could use to remember Christmas all throughout the year!!!
I received a review copy of this book. My opinions are my own. A positive review was not required.
October 31, 2023
A beautiful wintery retelling of the Princess and the Pea.
I've been waiting to see the beautiful arctic setting of Aurora since Heilani mentioned her cousin Sefina going there in Married at Sunrise. I've had the pleasure of going to Finland a couple of times, even getting to see the Northern Lights myself, so this book was a wonderful reminder of my time there.
Sefina was a beautiful soul, wanting to help everyone in anyway she could, and wanting to help Rune heal and learn to move forward. She definitely should've taken her own advice when it came to healing from her own past but she eventually got there, even if she did take the long way round.
I did want to shake Rune at times, but I can understand holding yourself back from people to avoid getting hurt again. But despite him keeping his guard up, he never let it get in the way of serving others and helping everyone he could whilst always putting himself last. He deserved the light that was Sefina to help him choose to start living again.
I think my favourite part of this story had to be the family unit that Rune had and Sefina was adopted into. All the siblings were so welcoming, caring, and warm whilst being so distinct from each other. I'm looking forward to seeing them again in Bo and Ayane's story.
I loved how Leialoha played with the original element of the pea in the bed and the idea that only a true princess could feel it, to create a heart warming start to Rune and Sefina's relationship that they continued to build up into love through each of their interactions.
I've been waiting to see the beautiful arctic setting of Aurora since Heilani mentioned her cousin Sefina going there in Married at Sunrise. I've had the pleasure of going to Finland a couple of times, even getting to see the Northern Lights myself, so this book was a wonderful reminder of my time there.
Sefina was a beautiful soul, wanting to help everyone in anyway she could, and wanting to help Rune heal and learn to move forward. She definitely should've taken her own advice when it came to healing from her own past but she eventually got there, even if she did take the long way round.
I did want to shake Rune at times, but I can understand holding yourself back from people to avoid getting hurt again. But despite him keeping his guard up, he never let it get in the way of serving others and helping everyone he could whilst always putting himself last. He deserved the light that was Sefina to help him choose to start living again.
I think my favourite part of this story had to be the family unit that Rune had and Sefina was adopted into. All the siblings were so welcoming, caring, and warm whilst being so distinct from each other. I'm looking forward to seeing them again in Bo and Ayane's story.
I loved how Leialoha played with the original element of the pea in the bed and the idea that only a true princess could feel it, to create a heart warming start to Rune and Sefina's relationship that they continued to build up into love through each of their interactions.
November 19, 2023
I really wanted to read this book sooner, but the last couple of weeks have been really hectic and if I don't get to read a few books from my own collection every week I start hating every review copy. However, last Thursday it was finally time to dive into this fairytale. I really enjoyed the other three books by this author I read so I was very glad I got a review copy via BookSirens for this one.
I really liked the Christmas vibe in this book. There were so many heartwarming moments. Bigger moments, like the ball where presents were exchanged, and smaller moments, like the moment our heroine gets a small present officially marking her as part of the family. On top of that there was loads of snow, cold and warming up near the hearth.
This book also did an amazing job capturing the emotions and sadness of the Corona crisis. The virus in this book isn't named, but we all recognize the not being allowed to touch those you love, losing people because a working treatment or vaccination comes too late or having to miss out on big celebrations because you might be contagious.
Last but not least: there's also a really cute romance. I have to admit that the severe insecurity, especially towards the end when it was already very clear that they were in love, got a little annoying at some point, but it was also nice to see both of those characters grow and learn because they started to realize their own worth.
I really liked the Christmas vibe in this book. There were so many heartwarming moments. Bigger moments, like the ball where presents were exchanged, and smaller moments, like the moment our heroine gets a small present officially marking her as part of the family. On top of that there was loads of snow, cold and warming up near the hearth.
This book also did an amazing job capturing the emotions and sadness of the Corona crisis. The virus in this book isn't named, but we all recognize the not being allowed to touch those you love, losing people because a working treatment or vaccination comes too late or having to miss out on big celebrations because you might be contagious.
Last but not least: there's also a really cute romance. I have to admit that the severe insecurity, especially towards the end when it was already very clear that they were in love, got a little annoying at some point, but it was also nice to see both of those characters grow and learn because they started to realize their own worth.
October 28, 2023
Lost at Aurora by Leialoha Humpherys. I extend thanks to the author and publisher for the Advanced Reader Copy that was gifted to me.
What a wonderful story Lost at Aurora proved to be. I was intrigued by the twist on the Princess and the Pea storyline but really had no idea what to expect. The author did an exceptional job creating characters that are easy to become engaged with and who become enduring. I very quickly became enamored with the story and really enjoyed anticipating where the story was going. I found myself getting lost in Aurora and the blizzard that brought these characters together. This story was filled with positive messages about real life concerns. The sweet romantic build was absolutely perfect. I look so forward to reading more by this author. She is incredibly talented and places thanks for that firmly where it belongs in her faith.
What a wonderful story Lost at Aurora proved to be. I was intrigued by the twist on the Princess and the Pea storyline but really had no idea what to expect. The author did an exceptional job creating characters that are easy to become engaged with and who become enduring. I very quickly became enamored with the story and really enjoyed anticipating where the story was going. I found myself getting lost in Aurora and the blizzard that brought these characters together. This story was filled with positive messages about real life concerns. The sweet romantic build was absolutely perfect. I look so forward to reading more by this author. She is incredibly talented and places thanks for that firmly where it belongs in her faith.
November 16, 2023
Lost at Aurora is an adorable retelling of Princess and the Pea. The story is set at Christmas time and is told from the point of view of the two main characters, Sefina and Rune. Sefina and Rune come from very different backgrounds, and are both strong characters with kind hearts and a desire to help others. They also privately struggle with feelings of insecurity and an inability to recognize their own worth. I loved seeing the development of their relationship. I also found the story to be delightful, and filled with lots of nostalgic Christmas feels!
Lost at Aurora is a standalone novel in the Incandescent Kingdoms series. I haven't read the other stories yet, but would definitely be interested in reading them in the future.
Thank you very much to the author and BookSirens for my free copy of Lost at Aurora. My thoughts and opinions are my own.
Lost at Aurora is a standalone novel in the Incandescent Kingdoms series. I haven't read the other stories yet, but would definitely be interested in reading them in the future.
Thank you very much to the author and BookSirens for my free copy of Lost at Aurora. My thoughts and opinions are my own.
January 2, 2024
Lost at Aurora
If you took Frozen, Moana, and the Princess and the pea, put them in a blender, and made a delicious milkshake, it would be this story.
Full of all of the warm family and holiday vibes, this sweet retelling is a dose of light for the dark winter days. It is a good story that is deeper than surface level. Seeing a book talk about the joys of healthy family relationships and the issues of toxic family situations so easily is refreshing.
Rune is easy to love. Sefina is relatable in her insecurities. The siblings feel like they just welcome you in to the fold as well.
The story is clean and refreshing. The images and world building are easy to picture. The characters are lovable.
I recommend reading this story if you need a breath of fresh winter air.
*I was provided an ARC of this book. This review is honest, voluntary, and my own views and opinions.
If you took Frozen, Moana, and the Princess and the pea, put them in a blender, and made a delicious milkshake, it would be this story.
Full of all of the warm family and holiday vibes, this sweet retelling is a dose of light for the dark winter days. It is a good story that is deeper than surface level. Seeing a book talk about the joys of healthy family relationships and the issues of toxic family situations so easily is refreshing.
Rune is easy to love. Sefina is relatable in her insecurities. The siblings feel like they just welcome you in to the fold as well.
The story is clean and refreshing. The images and world building are easy to picture. The characters are lovable.
I recommend reading this story if you need a breath of fresh winter air.
*I was provided an ARC of this book. This review is honest, voluntary, and my own views and opinions.
December 10, 2023
This is a retelling of the fairytale The Princess and the Pea. Most people don’t know this story as for some reason there’s not been a movie made about it. This is one of my favorite fairytales so when I saw this retelling I had to read it.
In this story or protagonists Sefina and Rune go through many emotions. They are from different cultures and Sefina wants to be the obedient daughter her parents want which causes many issues for her and Rune.
I loved this story. The characters are very believable and you can picture yourself among them. The author also does a really good job of world building.
If you are a fan of fairytale retellings or even romance novels then you should read this book.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
In this story or protagonists Sefina and Rune go through many emotions. They are from different cultures and Sefina wants to be the obedient daughter her parents want which causes many issues for her and Rune.
I loved this story. The characters are very believable and you can picture yourself among them. The author also does a really good job of world building.
If you are a fan of fairytale retellings or even romance novels then you should read this book.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
November 15, 2023
A sweet retelling of the Princess and the Pea, Leialoha Humpherys has written another beautiful story.
This is also a Christmas themed story, so it will get you in the mood for caroling and cookies, and being with those you love at the cold but most magical time of the year.
Sefina and Rune, are very cute together and watching them grow and choose to be happy just brings a smile to my face. I like the twist on the pea 😉.
I like this series of retellings and look forward to reading the next Incandescent Kingdoms Book.
Thank you to Leialoha for allowing me to be a part of the ARC team for this book!
This is also a Christmas themed story, so it will get you in the mood for caroling and cookies, and being with those you love at the cold but most magical time of the year.
Sefina and Rune, are very cute together and watching them grow and choose to be happy just brings a smile to my face. I like the twist on the pea 😉.
I like this series of retellings and look forward to reading the next Incandescent Kingdoms Book.
Thank you to Leialoha for allowing me to be a part of the ARC team for this book!
October 22, 2023
'Lost At Aurora' is an enjoyable romance. There is a plethora of relationships that are entertaining to explore.
Unfortunately, as a fantasy novel, it has some inadequacies. The setting is much more contemporary American than mystical land. There are also a few jarring anachronisms that seem to drive Aurora into a modern society. The fantasy subplot does come out in the last quarter of the novel, and is thrilling albeit brief.
Overall, 'Lost In Aurora' is a great novel, but the fantasy is lacking compared to previous books in this series. I recommend it for cosy Christmas romance fans.
Unfortunately, as a fantasy novel, it has some inadequacies. The setting is much more contemporary American than mystical land. There are also a few jarring anachronisms that seem to drive Aurora into a modern society. The fantasy subplot does come out in the last quarter of the novel, and is thrilling albeit brief.
Overall, 'Lost In Aurora' is a great novel, but the fantasy is lacking compared to previous books in this series. I recommend it for cosy Christmas romance fans.
November 11, 2023
I have read several of the Incandescent Kingdom stories and have been delighted by all of them, including Lost at Aurora! It is definitely a sweet holiday romance, with clear elements of Christianity and Christmastime thoughout, as well as self-discovery and being true to oneself through the challenges of life. The author's unique take on cultures and incorporating them into her unique fairytale retellings makes for excellent reading!
I received this story as an ARC and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received this story as an ARC and am voluntarily leaving a review.
November 12, 2023
A story about two people who have a lot of issues and insecurities within them which causes them to both find a hard time relating to people and simply being and loving themselves. The acceptance and love they both find for each other is a slow burn and also simply nice.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily
October 23, 2023
This was such a sweet story set at Christmas time! It’s a light clean romance where both main characters are dealing with feelings of insecurity and low self esteem, when in reality, they are both strong, but don’t see it in themselves. I love how everything gets resolved! What a great ending!
November 3, 2023
I really loved reading this wonderful book! I loved the characters and the plot! I had a hard time putting this really wonderful book down! I absolutely loved this retelling of A Princess and the Pea! I really loved reading all of the books in this really wonderful series!
October 9, 2025
A cozy Christmas Princess and the Pea but with a huge loving family showed in together.
Rune and Sefina were great but I loved all of the other characters even more.
I just adored these sweet siblings and how they bonded together to take care of their village.
Rune and Sefina were great but I loved all of the other characters even more.
I just adored these sweet siblings and how they bonded together to take care of their village.
October 27, 2023
This was a beautiful story of found family and self worth! This truly deserves five stars!
November 8, 2023
It was pretty interesting and kept me entertained until I finished it.
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February 27, 2024I really liked the setting of this story--great Hygge vibes for the winter! The take on the princess and the pea was clever, and I loved the emphasis on family. ❤️
October 5, 2025
A cute retelling of the Princess and the Pea retelling with Christmas vibes. It was really slow at times, but the plot picked up later in the book.
November 11, 2023
It was a beautiful story.
March 26, 2024
I enjoyed this retelling of Princess and the Pea, but it wasn't my favorite.
Like the previous book in the series, it had some insta-love . This one was was slightly less sudden than the previous one (a plus), but it had more angst (I am a get-to-the-point kind of girl). At this point I think it's just personal preference, but I still think that interaction between the MCs is awkward at times, but when they interact with anyone else it is fine.
In my opinion, what Humpherys really excels at is character development and family relationships. Both Sefina and Rune think their worth is dependent on their accomplishments or title and grow to recognize their true worth. Also, I liked how fleshed out Rune's siblings were. They had more depth than most secondary characters do.
Overall, this was a cute addition to the series and I can't wait to read Bo and Ayane's story!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Like the previous book in the series, it had some insta-love . This one was was slightly less sudden than the previous one (a plus), but it had more angst (I am a get-to-the-point kind of girl). At this point I think it's just personal preference, but I still think that interaction between the MCs is awkward at times, but when they interact with anyone else it is fine.
In my opinion, what Humpherys really excels at is character development and family relationships. Both Sefina and Rune think their worth is dependent on their accomplishments or title and grow to recognize their true worth. Also, I liked how fleshed out Rune's siblings were. They had more depth than most secondary characters do.
Overall, this was a cute addition to the series and I can't wait to read Bo and Ayane's story!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
February 28, 2024
This book is amazing!!! This book is a very unique retelling of the "Princess and the Pea" story. The romance was really cute and sweet. This book was set during the Christmas season, and it made the story even more magical. This book was also very well written and detailed. Overall, this holiday romance retelling is amazing and should definitely be read all year long. ❄️🫛❄️🫛❄️🫛❄️🫛❄️🫛❄️🫛❄️🫛❄️🫛❄️🫛❄️🫛❄️🫛❄️🫛❄️🫛❄️🫛❄️🫛❄️🫛
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