Zaina will do anything to protect her sisters, including marrying a beast of a king in a mysterious castle far from everything she's ever known. Still, that castle isn't far enough away to escape the monster she has spent her life enslaved to, or the secrets that threaten to destroy everyone she holds dear. Torn between the love she has for her sisters and the enigmatic allure of a romance that defies all reason, Zaina must decide what she's willing to risk to save the people she loves. And who she must betray. The Twisted Pages Series is a dark fairy tale retelling full of morally gray characters, fated mates, love, loss, redemption, and a hard won happily ever after.
Elle Madison is a faerie disguising herself as an author in the human world. When she isn't wrestling her children, she's busy baking cookies for her husband and becoming a regular at every taco shop she comes across. After hours, when she puts the kiddos to bed, you can usually find Elle working on creating new fantastical worlds, reading about them or playing Stardew Valley like the child she is. Elle enjoys watching the sunset, trying new wines, the occasional raccoon or two, and being with people who make her laugh.
I absolutely love this series, and having them all together in one book is just a brilliant way to binge the whole series! I loved the bonus scenes, they got me right in the feels and it was so great to get Einar's POV from the wedding night, as well as the extra epilogues from our favourite morally grey ladies!
First of all, what a beautiful cover! And there’s bonus content 😊 I’ll start with my individual reviews per book, and end with some things about the bonus content.
Of Thorns and Beauty ⭐⭐⭐ Of Thorns and Beauty had been on my reading list for a while, with a cover that immediately attracts attention and an interesting blurb. So I started reading it with great enthusiasm, but had quite some trouble getting into the story. It takes quite a while before you get any background information about Zaina and her past, even about Einar and his court you get little explanation in the beginning. There is also little thrill in the first few chapters. Nevertheless, Zaina's character takes shape right from the start, she is sassy, does everything for those she cares about and stands her ground well.
Throughout the story, you gradually learn more about the characters' past by means of flashbacks that are really well and vividly told. I also really liked how Zaina's behaviour evolves throughout the story, how she starts to participate more in the world surrounding her. Yet she always remains herself, which makes her a really strong and realistic main character with recognisable strengths and weaknesses. While the story continues, you also get to know Einar better. By getting to know his history, he becomes a lot more likeable for both us as readers but also for Zaina in her daily dealings with him.
The story kind of ends in the middle of an important part, which makes you want to continue to the second book immediately. Overall, the story was slow to start, but it was worth the effort to keep on reading and find out what it is all about. Though it isn’t a classical Beauty and the Beast retelling, I am curious to find out how things will go with the "curse" that rests on the inhabitants of the castle.
Of Beasts and Vengeance ⭐⭐⭐⭐,5 Fantastic couldn't-be-better sequel to a great first part of an original Beauty and the Beast retelling. The story of Zaina and Einar continues after a betrayal that was made to protect everyone she loves. At the beginning of this book, Zaina and Einar their relationship is more of a hate-like one than it was at the end of the previous book. This made me a little hesitant at first, because in other books this always comes from a big misunderstanding that could easily be solved if the two characters would just talk and listen to each other. It looks the same here, but soon you realise that both Zaina and Einar are really trying to protect their beloved ones and keep their walls up for this exact reason. Still they decide to keep talking to each other, tentative at first but soon improving. So I definitely wasn't disappointed by the status of their relationship because they remain mature in their way of acting plus because of the intricately way it evolves and changes. The authors have done a fabulous job in capturing the complexity of the feelings of both Einar and Zaina. The characters also get a lot of room to remain true to themselves and evolve throughout the story. In contrast to book 1, this one has alternating POV's. It is nice to get an insight into both Einar's and Zaina's being. The flashbacks therefore provide information about the history of both characters. I really appreciated that this time the flashbacks were present from the beginning of the book, in book 1 they appeared a bit too late in the story in my opinion. One character that deserved more credits in my opinion is Sigrid. She is such a strong and interesting woman who notices everything and cares deeply. I get the feeling this is appreciated, but could have been appreciated a little bit more still. The ending of this book won't disappoint you either, the straightforward yet detailed and thought out way it is plotted is truly a great finish. The way in which the lead-up to the next book is given at the very end is interesting too; you immediately notice the differences between Zaina and Aika and are stimulated to get to know her better and experience the dynamic between them yourself. So I give this book a rating of 4,5 out of 5 stars and am really curious and excited to read the next instalment of the series. PS does somebody know where I can find a chalyx of my own? Khija is just truly amazing 😁
Of Glass and Ashes ⭐⭐⭐⭐,5 After already having read several books by Robin and Elle, including the first two in this series, my expectations were high. After reading this book I can say that they did not disappoint. A worthy sequel in the twisted pages series.
The story has a strong beginning with enough room for both action and emotions. Aika's character is portrayed from the start in such a way that you want to get to know her better. Throughout her adventure, you get to know her better and you gain insight into her character traits and struggles, which are recognisable. She is sassy, confident, witty, but also very human. Just like in the previous two books, there are flashbacks that are a great added value to the construction of the story. Also Zaina, Einar, Remy, Damian, Madame and several side characters get their deserved place in the story and get some space for development.
The book is a bit slow in getting started, but nevertheless never boring. The writing style is fluent and pleasant, taking you right into the story. The plot twists are also well worked out, not too predictable but also not entirely unexpected. The Cinderella retelling-elements are clearly present, yet not too obvious, making them really nicely entwined with the rest of the story. I'm going to hold back and not go into the story in any detail, you'll have to find that out for yourself. But it really is a series worth reading. It also deals with many different themes such as loyalty, betrayal, blackmail, but also friendship, family, standing up for yourself, moral grey feelings and thoughts.
Just like Of Beasts and Vengeance, I would also like to give Of Glass and Ashes a score of 4.5 out of 5. I enjoyed the story, discovering the intrigues together with Aika, seeing Zaina and Einar's plan develop further. I can't wait for the next part in this series.
Of Thieves and Shadows ⭐⭐⭐,5 Fourth instalment in the series, full of pining, miscommunication, who did this to you, deciding who you want to be, accepting others for who they are, and a pinch of fake dating.
I was really curious to find out how Aika's story continues since she's my favourite character in this series (next to Khija of course). Add cinnamon roll Remy to this equation and this becomes one of my most anticipated reads of the year. The story itself is rather slow at various moments in de book, because a lot of page time goes to how hard certain persons (pretend to) hate each other. Because of this, there was less witty banter in this book compared to the other books, which is something I missed here. The protectiveness, who did this to you, and the personal development of the main characters luckily made up for this. The flashbacks were also real added values. I also wanted to keep on reading, eager to discover what would happen next. At the end, you're left with a bunch of questions, hopefully they will be addressed soon in the next books. Although I'm curious to find out more about Mel, I really look forward to the chapters from Zaina, Aika, Einar and Remy's POV too. I would also love to see Einar and Zaina interact with the others more in a mundane way, about daily stuff for example, and not only when they're hatching a plan. Although this book felt a bit more like a necessary part in between the previous and the next book (even though it's a full length novel), and a bit less like an equivalent part of the story compared to the other books (partly because the ending and some other bits of Aika's story just felt rushed), it was still a nice book to read, hence 3,5/5 ⭐
Of Songs and Silence ⭐⭐⭐⭐ Beautiful well-finished finale to a fine series.
OSAS is the fifth and final part of the Twisted Pages series and is a little mermaid retelling about Melodi, the sister of Zaina and Aika. Like the previous books, this one also has a beautiful cover. I really enjoyed finally getting thoroughly acquainted with Melodi in this book. Zaina and Aika have captured my heart for some time already, but now Melodi has made her way there too. The different POVs complement each other well, it is definitely an added value that you not only crawl into the sisters' heads, but also into those of their romantic interests. Furthermore, you are well carried along in the story and it does not bore at any point. I perhaps just found the chapters a little too short, so some scenes lacked a little extra depth. Time is taken to tell Mel her story, which is actually done well. Her patience and empathy are really admirable, a world of difference from her sisters. The other characters are also great to spend time with. It would have been even more enjoyable had we also been shown a bit more of the culture and customs of the Mayima. Nevertheless, I really enjoyed her story. What I regretted most about this book was that the ending was somewhat rushed as far as both storylines were concerned. Especially regarding Aika and Zaina's story and plan, I would have liked to have seen this fleshed out a bit more. It's actually worked towards throughout the series like this, only to be wrapped up rather quickly. However, that doesn't change the fact that I was really intrigued for the whole book, I found it hard to put it aside. All the loose ends are also tied up nicely. The ending is therefore absolutely perfect, I think it is super fitting for this series.
So I would definitely recommend this series for anyone who likes fairytale retellings with a darker side, ones that deviate a bit more from the classic tale as everyone knows it. The books are filled with all these amazing and admirable and true-to-life characters, anyone will recognise themselves in one of them. In addition, you will be introduced to some amazing animal sidekicks you will never forget.
Bonus chapters ⭐⭐⭐⭐ As always, I loved the bonus chapters. They provide more depth to the stories in which they belong. However I would have liked to see the bonuses spread more evenly between the books. Nonetheless I especially liked the chapter from Madame’s POV (always fun to get a glimpse into the villain’s head), and the epilogue chapters (because who doesn’t want to peek into the future to see how the main characters will fare after the story ended?). So you should definitely check out this omnibus to get access to these chapters!
This was such a good series!!!! I’ve been hooked since Einar and Zaina first graced the pages. And they are my ultimate favorite ElBin couple. The bonus content on this omnibus is just *chefs kiss*. and look at the pretty cover!!!!! This is a little on the darker and heavy side, but the couples and the world building just make it so beautiful. Absolutely love this series!
Completely by chance, I came across this magical series on audio called ‘Twisted Pages’ by Elle Madison & Robin D. Mahle And I am totally obsessed!! I devoured all four books within a matter of days. And desperate for more!
Everything about the series is to my liking - I enjoyed the gorgeous morally gray characters (the couples and our MC sisters with their beauty, intellect and ruthlessness), the intricately crafted world, the continuous plot twists, the romance and angst. Even the protagonists with all their villainy and darkness are well fleshed out and captivating!
Highly recommended the audio books, narrated by @shiromi.arserio But I will be reading the bonus scenes on Kindle because I can’t get enough!
5 stars plus ✨✨✨✨✨
NB: Please check author’s note for trigger warnings.
Every one of these sister holds a piece of my heart. They are all so beautiful, strong character, while all being somewhat broken in their own ways. This dark, thrilling, fairytale inspired series is beautifully written with the best plot twist one could ask for. Having them all in one book now, is the best thing Elle and Robin could have done. We have a few bonus chapters from some of our favourite characters. I couldn’t deny that my favourite bonus chapter was Zaina’s. She was probably by far my favourite sister, and her bonus chapter was everything I could have hoped for her.
I received arcs for all of these and loved them all. I recently received the arc for bonus chapters and had to do a reread and get back to this world and it was just as fun to read as the first time. You think you know fairytales until you’ve read these. Love love love
If you love the more classic telling of fairy tales, you would love this series. Elle and Robin are by far my favorite author team. They always create the most amazing worlds that you cannot help but be drawn in to and this series is definitely one of them.
First, I want to add a trigger warning. This is a great fantasy series with a very real look at abuse both mentally and physically.
This series follows a set of three sisters, each with their own twist on a classic fairytale, but all of them tie together with their evil stepmother at the heart of the story. The first two books are a Beauty and the Beast story where they introduce you to Zaina, the beautiful and perfect daughter with a fierce streak to protect her sisters at all costs. And her tale wouldn't be complete without Einar, the Viking King who wants nothing more than to protect his people. Books three and four are a Cinderella story where you are introduced to Aika. I think Aika and Remy's story is my favorite, although it's so hard to choose. Aika is definitely the more reckless sister who craves vengeance for the one she thinks she has lost. She definitely has a hard shell to crack, but deep down all she wants is to help those in need. In the final book five you are emerged in a very twisted telling of the Little Mermaid where you meet the last sister Melodi. I loved that Elle and Robin take you back to the beginning and while they definitely give Melodi her own story, you finally understand where Madame came from and what had made her who she is today.
These stories will definitely have your emotions on a huge roller coaster ride, so much so for me that I literally could not put it down or stop reading until I finished it because I had to know what happens next. I loved seeing the sisters bonds and relationships grow over the series.
I was most excited for the bonus content and it did not disappoint. It was a great way to add to the series.
I truly love these worlds that Elle & Robin have created for us and I really think that you will too.
*I received an ARC from the authors in exchange for an honest review.*
- A Queen of Thorns and Vengeance (Zaina's story): Of Thorns and Beauty & Of Beasts and Vengeance - A Queen of Glass and Shadows (Aika's story): Of Glass and Ashes & Of Thieves and Shadows - A Queen of Songs and Ruin (Melodi's story): Of Songs and Silence
My favourite was definitely Zaina's story (A Queen of Thorns and Vengeance), and also seeing her relationships develop and presented in the following books. I really liked the books about Aika, though it sometimes felt as if they ambled along without purpose. Similarly, Melodi's book felt like it missed the detail and emotional depth that the first books had, and I think it could have done to be more written out (either longer or also in two books). The ending felt a little rushed, and a few ends remain open that I still have questions about ().
Also, the side characters also made for great found family vibes, and of course the animal sidekicks were amazing <3 This was definitely a great series to binge, with the sisters tying everything together. I also loved the inclusion of different cultures in FMC, especially seeing the juxtaposition of Einar's and Zaina's. And in the artwork! <3
I will say, pls check CW/TW if you're interested, because it could get pretty dark. The dark parts of the books really are more about things and situations that are mentioned than explicitly on page, and I really appreciated that the authors managed to get the horror of the girls' circumstances across with this method. While no graphic intercourse or explicit violence is portrayed (mostly), there are bits and pieces of it, and also mentions of .
Once again Elle and Robin have given us a wonderful story that I personally love. If you love retellings of popular fairytales, this series is for you. It’s rich storytelling lores you in, and it’s wonderful writing is fantastic.
Three sisters. Three loves. Three animal sidekicks. Two antagonists. Who is at war with who?
Zaina is the protagonist in the first two installments, of Thorns and Beauty and of beasts and vengeance are a retelling of beauty and the beast. Einar, a fierce Viking king comes into her life and turns her world upside down as her mission.
The third and fourth installment are the retelling of Cinderella; Of Glass and ashes and Thieves of Shadows. Aika is a vigilante lurking in the dark with her secret identity to pull away from her corrupt ‘mother’. With a mysterious Remy on her tail, what will come of her and her mission?
The final installment, of song of silence is a retelling of the little mermaid. Melodi has a lot to ear, but who will hear her sound? From veering away from her mother, she finds her home in the sea. There she meets lots of animals and family. With Ari’s brazen behavior will she be free of her mother?
This series is phenomenal and I was at the edge of my seat, wanting it to never end. Plus the bonus chapters and epilogues were always a love. If you read this series already, make sure you check out the bonus content! Thank you for this story Elle and Robin! ♥️
Of Thorns and Beauty / Of Beasts and Vengeance: Robin and Elle did it again. They played with my heart. I got lost in the game. Zaina is so strong but broken. And Einar will do anything to save his people. They both have secrets and an unwillingness to risk the people they love. I cried, giggled, swooned, cried, then swooned some more. There may have been a few gasps in there, too. My heart was invested in this story from beginning to end, a phenomenal twisted take on Beauty and the Beast.
Of Glass and Ashes / Of Thieves and Shadows: Completely blown away by these authors. This world has been so intricately woven, and the feelings of Aika and Zaina can be felt by every reader who has fallen into it. These two books are a Cinderella retelling. Aika and now Pumpkin are my favorite characters in this world. And Remy is swoon-worthy on his worst day. Even though these two books focus on Aika, we get to see plenty of Zaina and Einar. I love that they didn't just stop being part of the story after the first two books of the series.
Of Songs and Silence: Epic conclusion to the Twisted Pages series! Little Mermaid retelling this time. I love how the authors included chapters of our previous favorite characters' POVs - Zaina, Aika, Einar, and Remy. The storylines meshed really well even though the sisters were rarely in the same place. Everything was wrapped up beautifully. Also, Napo is my new favorite of the three animal sidekicks. For an octopus, he's very sassy.
These ladies know how to make you keep reading! I couldn’t put these books down. I was so invested in the story as I got to the end of each book in this omnibus compilation of the series. This is certainly a dark and twisted tale (as the series title indicates) that is tough to read at times but I love the emotion and growth that the authors have written into these characters. They are great at crafting stories of doomed relationships that somehow flourish.
This series has awful villains, romance and even some humor. If you enjoy fairytale retellings with a darker edge and romance, these books are for you. This series includes retellings of Beauty and the Beast, Cinderella and The Little Mermaid. I definitely recommend reading in this omnibus version because you get bonus content with extra scenes.
I and the authors would categorize this series as upper YA/NA due to violence and fade to black romance scenes.
I received an advanced copy of this book from the authors. The thoughts and opinions in this review are my own.
What if beauty didn’t want to marry the prince? What if Cinderella wasn’t singing sweetly while she did her step mother’s dirty work? What if Ariel’s voice wasn’t really stolen? This series reminds us that no fairy tale is what it seems and who we are is shaped by where we’ve been, but only we can decide how our story ends. This series makes you feel empathy for the bad guys, and realize that even the “villain” has a backstory and every human being deserves to be loved and is willing to do nearly anything to get it. These stories are about true love, about overcoming adversity, about making choices that change our lives and the lives of our loved ones. They are about forgiveness and finding peace, and about the importance of forgiving ourselves and embracing even the broken pieces and finding a way to love them. It uplifted me and shattered me all at the same time. As someone once said “read it with a box of tissues”, and maybe a shot of whisky and maybe a good friend to hold. It’s a wild ride. And it’s so worth it.
Honestly? I picked up this omnibus to read the bonus chapters, as I've read each book individually in the past. And , , , guess what?! I reread the whole series again! I just couldn't resist as I had them all in front of me. I put adulting on hold, found a quiet corner, and just read. The bonus chapters are good, and add to the story. It was nice to get one from Madame's point of view. It ALMOST made me feel a bit sorry for her. Anyway, now I'm in the midst of a book hangover. The female MC's are strong and talented but do have flaws they fight. The male MC's are also strong and do not let themselves be diminished by the intelligence and strength of their women, they welcome and support them - even when it drives them crazy! The world is terrific, there are bad gals and guys you'll root against, with some morally gray areas, but all tied together with some fabulous stories. Grab this book, find a quiet place to read, and put the rest of the world on hold as I guarantee that you won't want to be disturbed! Bonus that this collection is on KU.
(I would like to thank the author and publisher for an avanced reader copy of this book! This review is formed by own opinion.)
Twisted Pages Omnibus by Elle Madison and Robin D. Mahle Madison and Mahle have done it again! This series is based on classic fairytales but given a dark and unpected twist to them! You are introduced to the characters of Zaina, Aika, and Melodi, Madame (Ulla), Einar, Damian, Remy, and Ari. Each story talks about the lives of each girl- Zaina, Aika, and Melodi and what happened to them as young girls in Madame's household- to their lives now. There's love, heartache, and many tough situations that they find themselves in, along with survival and bringing justice where it's needed. The fairytales that you see woven into the stories are Beauty & the Beast, Cinderella, and The Little Mermaid and all of them have surprises in them that will keep you on your toes! A great series that I absolutely loved- included with bonus scenes that you do not want to miss out on! I was sad to see it end!
I love a dark fairytale but this might be the best adult retelling of popular fables that I can recall reading (and I've read a bunch). It's certainly not a stretch to say that they're better than their respective originals (I mean this Cinderella's prince didn't forget what her face looked like). The complexity of the characters take them beyond static good vs evil tropes, and the happy endings are bittersweet, but well deserved. I have a particular love for Zaina and Einar (although it's hard not to fall in love with all the major characters). From their initial meeting where they hate each other based on cultural differences and other misunderstandings, I was hooked. It takes amazing writing to show their gradual trust and love build in light of their many differences and the obstacles they faced. The whole mythology of the world they live in, including the dragons was great. I rarely reread books but I already want to go back to the beginning of this one.
This unputdownable series is dark and twisty as all truly captivating fairytale retellings are! And it begins and ends with tragedy, brutally and everlasting love.
Once upon a time, three damaged girls set out to do their duty, and despite all the odds, they found their happily ever afters. Each journey was so very different, and the lessons learned changed who they fundamentally were. With grumpy heroes, a few terrifying dragons, and three vastly different animal companions, they learned to trust. Watching the layers of torment and self-loathing dissolve as each young lady discovered her heart was both extraordinary and bittersweet. Forged in fire and tested by endurance, they did the one thing no one could...
If horrifying villains and spectacular world building whisk you away, grab your tissues and snack of choice. You're going to be invested and absolutely addicted to these passionate pages. No one pens a tale quite like Elbin.
If you love a fairy tale re-telling let me tell you... these stories are not your average retelling. Dark, dangerous, swoony... and simply captivating. I can't get over this exquisite new omnibus! I was already obsessed with the series, but now with the bonus chapters, gorgeous artwork, and unbelievably detailed maps, I am on pins and needles waiting for the paperback and hardbacks to come out!
Okay, about the series.... this complete collection is all FIVE books of the Twisted Pages Series which includes a re-telling of the beloved and well-known fairy tales: Beauty and the Beast, Cinderella, and The Little Mermaid. The series follows three sisters of very different backgrounds and talents but with one common enemy... I won't say who/what that is otherwise I would be giving away a major spoiler! But I can say that Elle Madison and Robin D. Mahle will have you feeling ALL the feels with their enthralling tales and this series is simply, super bingeable!
I absolutely adored this series. It truly started with a bang and I was captivated from start to finish! Each sister's story is a fairy tale retelling without being too obvious about it. The central elements are there but Madison and Mahle gave the plot so much extra depth. There is a lot of angst and darkness - it is definitely not all rainbows and unicorns - but the torturous decisions that the MCs must make kept me on the edge on my seat. The characters are very well developed and relatable with completely different personalities and quirks. The writing, as always, is simple yet sophisticated and flows beautifully. There are no superfluous scenes and secrets are sprinkled throughout the novel. I loved that this series is now complete and available as one. The bonus chapters are fantastic and just add that much more greatness to an amazing series.
If you like fairy tale retellings – dark fairy tale retellings, then you need to check out the Twisted Pages series by Elle Madison and Robin D. Mahle. In the five-book series, there are Beauty and the Beast, Cinderella, and Little Mermaid retellings. Madison and Mahle are experts of twisting the original tales into something that will tear into your soul and make you melt in the best ways possible.
Each of the FMCs are unique and strong in their own ways. Their swoony MMCs are irresistible, *excuse me while I fan myself*. This series is full of cliffy endings, so it’s a great idea to get the omnibus so you have the next book ready to go! This series has some of my favorite tropes like enemies to lovers and soul mates. You will want to binge read this NA romantasy series over and over.
Plus, you definitely want to do the omnibus for some bonus scenes too!
Elle Madison and Robin D. Mahle are a dynamic author duo, always coming up with unique worlds and intriguing characters - and the Twisted Pages series was no exception! This is a collection of five books, and within them are three interconnected fairytale retellings (Beauty and the Beast, Cinderella, and The Little Mermaid) unlike anything I’ve ever read, which is definitely a good thing! The whole series was wonderfully enchanting, and the bonus content at the end was such a nice treat as well! Some of the chapters were the same scenes that were in one of the books in the series, but told from another character’s POV. The rest were additional content or epilogues that showed what the characters’ lives were like after the series was over. I highly recommend this series and this boxed set!
Today you can meet Zaina, Aika and Mel. Sisters, slaves, survivors. Together, finally, in one book.
Their life is anything but a fairytale!
Of Thorns and Beauty was my first foray into the obsession that is now ElBin's novels so, when I first heard that this omnibus would contain bonus chapters, i thought it would be Einars POV that excited me the most. True to form, my favourite duo did not disappoint and Einar's insight into his wedding night was everything i wanted it to be. Then Aika's chapter pulled on my heartstrings and I thought this is as good as it gets but in the end Robin and Elle did what they did best and left me crying my little heart out at Zaina, my favourite of the tortured trio.
Having all the sisters' stories in one book is perfection already but these bonus chapters are honestly the icing on the cake!
Because sometimes a happily ever after isnt for everyone…
The twisted pages series is complete and it wrecks you in all the best ways. Follow the stories of some morally grey ladies thrust into lives of deceit and darkness as they navigate the realities of their own fairytales. Because in this world, the heroes do bad things and the villains have their reasons…
With the addition of a few extra chapter and POVS available only in this omnibus, the stories are really brought life and resolution back this series.
Trigger alert: as the name implies, there are darker themes, explored in this series, such as parental abuse, sexual assault, etc. The authors never go into too much detail, but they are mentioned and a vital part of the character development.
This is probably my favorite collection from Robin and Elle. I love the twisted fairy tales, with twists that I really never expect. And it’s a toss up on who my favorite character is, it’s between Zaina and Aika, though I think Zaina has the slight edge. The banter between characters is both familiar and unique between the pairings. And for whatever reason, I did not get that Madame is Ursula. I don’t know how I missed it, because the pieces are there for the whole series. I really had to force myself to put the books down in order to sleep or do other mundane adult stuff. The bonus scenes and chapters are a fun addition, the last one, Zaina’s epilogue, was especially great because it was so heartwarming.
I received a copy of this book from the authors in exchange for an honest review
Wow what a read! These authors really know how to suck you into their world and hold on tight. This is a gripping and enthralling dark fairy tale retelling with descriptive and beautiful world building and amazing characters. You have beauty and the beast, you have Cinderella and then you have the little mermaid. Each tells a tale, dark, dangerous and captivating, told about three sisters who are strong and different in their own ways and their suitors who are swoon worthy and totally hot. The authors work their magic in weaving these tales and intertwining them and best of all, you can do what I did and binge read without waiting to the next book.
In this series you can expect brave, sassy and true FMCs, enemies to lovers, unhinged family dynamics, plotting a plenty and cute animal side kicks along side a quest for revenge as three sisters find love, and the strength to fight back against their evil, manipulative mother.
I binged this series a while ago and really enjoyed it so I was super excited to read the bonus chapters! While I like all three of the stories I think Zaina and Aika are my favourites - I loved how their extra chapters progressed and felt like a good place to tie up their stories. I want more Melody! I also loved Einar's POV of the wedding night 😍
These stories broke my heart with their raw, intense feelings. You feel everything with them, and want for them to find and keep the happiness that came their way. The story ending felt right. It was both haunting and beautiful. BUT there were things my heart just needed to know. Did Zaina find her family? What happed with the other sisters after time had passed? Did their lives fill with more happiness in spite of the pains they endured? Could I feel any sympathy for Ula and what did she really think when Melodi disappeared?
The bonus content in this beautiful set absolutely sets everything right. I am content.
If you found this while searching Dark Romance, you may be very disappointed. But, give it a chance because the imagination and creativity put into these writings should not be passed up. I would say they're great for adults, but not so much "young adults". Sexual scenes are alluded to, but "non-consent" is mentioned directly. Some trauma is also described as part of the non-consent. So this may be too much for younger readers. Parents, don't download this for your under aged kids without reading first.
Otherwise great action, definitely twists and turns and the story co tines through the series. Certain non-speaking characters are THE BEST!!! Especially pumpkin and napo.
I loved every moment of this twisty series of fairytale re-imagings woven together into a single, holistic storyline. The characters are compelling and the worldbuilding kept me awed throughout. The first two volumes offer an interesting variant of Beauty and the Beast, volumes three and four provide a singular Cinderella story, and the last volume has hints of The Little Mermaid, although it is entirely its own thing.
I highly recommend this set for anyone who enjoys high fantasy, intergenerational family dramas, intense antagonists-to-lovers romances with awesome power couples, and stabby female MCs. It’s been a very intense and entertaining ride.
The Twisted Pages series borrows some elements from Beauty and the Beast, Cinderella, and The Little Mermaid. These aren't Disney fairytales. They're dark, as the original tales were, gothic, and, well, twisted. There's also heart, hope, loyalty, and love. Add in amazing animal sidekicks and you have incredibly compelling reading. The beauty of this omnibus means you don't have to wait between cliffhangers and the next release date. You don't even have to wait for the next book to download. It's all here along with some fun bonus chapters. Put out the "do not disturb" sign and enjoy!