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For the Love of the Villain #3
The Nameless Trickster
When Juliette’s older brother makes an astounding claim to save his own skin, Juliette is escorted to the palace, along with other magically gifted young women who are being taken from their villages so the king can choose a bride.
But Juliette’s brother lied. She has no magic. She’s a baker and a businesswoman, not a sorceress… and now she’s trapped, facing death if she displeases the king.
When a handsome tattooed man shows up and proposes a bargain, Juliette makes a deal with him out of desperation. But their collaboration results in a crisis neither of them expected, one with dire consequences—
Unless Juliette can learn the stranger’s true name.
This spicy grownup retelling of Rumplestiltskin is perfect for fans of romantasy & fantasy romance books, and it blends a cozy fantasy atmosphere with more intense, dark fantasy vibes. Reading guidance for the darker moments can be found in the front of the book.
But Juliette’s brother lied. She has no magic. She’s a baker and a businesswoman, not a sorceress… and now she’s trapped, facing death if she displeases the king.
When a handsome tattooed man shows up and proposes a bargain, Juliette makes a deal with him out of desperation. But their collaboration results in a crisis neither of them expected, one with dire consequences—
Unless Juliette can learn the stranger’s true name.
This spicy grownup retelling of Rumplestiltskin is perfect for fans of romantasy & fantasy romance books, and it blends a cozy fantasy atmosphere with more intense, dark fantasy vibes. Reading guidance for the darker moments can be found in the front of the book.
335 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 28, 2023
222 people are currently reading
1340 people want to read
About the author
Rebecca F. Kenney
72 books2,888 followersRebecca F. Kenney writes spicy fantasy romance about sassy, strong women and hot guys with tragic backstories... pirates, warlords, demons, Fae, and royals. Her main series are the "Wicked Darlings" series (spicy Fae retellings of the Nutcracker, Wonderland, and Oz), the "Dark Rulers" series (standalones in a shared world), and the "For the Love of the Villain" series of genderbent fairytales. Other books include a post-apocalyptic vampire romance trilogy ("The Vampires Will Save You"), a demon romance "Interior Design for Demons," a dark mermaid fantasy duet, and other spicy retellings.
Rebecca is represented by Eva Scalzo of Speilburg Literary. She lives in upstate South Carolina with her handsome blue-eyed husband and two smart, energetic kids.
For updates and information about upcoming novels, follow on Instagram @rebeccafkenneybooks, on Twitter @RebeccaFKenney1, and on TikTok @rebeccafkenney
Rebecca is represented by Eva Scalzo of Speilburg Literary. She lives in upstate South Carolina with her handsome blue-eyed husband and two smart, energetic kids.
For updates and information about upcoming novels, follow on Instagram @rebeccafkenneybooks, on Twitter @RebeccaFKenney1, and on TikTok @rebeccafkenney
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 79 reviews
December 1, 2023
I really enjoy Rebecca F. Kenney's writing and she has quickly become a new favorite author this year. Her scenic descriptions and language are lovely, not to mention that the books are 😮💨🪭, not just well written. I like that she often retells a well-known fairytale, devoting more time to world-building and character development than setting up the story. Yet, despite the familiar framework, the plot was still captivating and surprising. The TWISTS! The TURNS! The TENSION! My heart nearly seized up in some places. Well strategized plot 👏🏻
Rumplestiltskin has always been a favorite fairytale, and this retelling did not disappoint. Juliette was such a powerful heroine, clever and capable. Can I just say how refreshing it is to have a strong, fat fantasy FMC????? I am so sick of reading SJM sticks (no hate, fantasy is just severely lacking in body diversity). And "Rupert" turned out to be SUCH a cinnamon roll 🥹
Not only was The Nameless Trickster a fun story, it's also a book about citizen agency and responsibility. Throughout the plot, Kenney's characters expand their worldview, compassion, and political awareness. When their eyes are opened to injustice, they do not stand idly by or escape to a HEA, they get involved to end others' suffering.
This book ended up being really cozy. It's kind of surprising that I enjoyed so much, because lately I only want to read the darkest, grimmest, most hopeless sh!t.
Add me on Instagram | StoryGraph | Fable
Rumplestiltskin has always been a favorite fairytale, and this retelling did not disappoint. Juliette was such a powerful heroine, clever and capable. Can I just say how refreshing it is to have a strong, fat fantasy FMC????? I am so sick of reading SJM sticks (no hate, fantasy is just severely lacking in body diversity). And "Rupert" turned out to be SUCH a cinnamon roll 🥹
Not only was The Nameless Trickster a fun story, it's also a book about citizen agency and responsibility. Throughout the plot, Kenney's characters expand their worldview, compassion, and political awareness. When their eyes are opened to injustice, they do not stand idly by or escape to a HEA, they get involved to end others' suffering.
This book ended up being really cozy. It's kind of surprising that I enjoyed so much, because lately I only want to read the darkest, grimmest, most hopeless sh!t.
Add me on Instagram | StoryGraph | Fable
December 2, 2023
I just can’t believe she chose the name RUPERT for the uber-sexy elf man.
October 15, 2024
As always I love her books
December 4, 2023
I’m leaving this review voluntarily. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
It’s not a secret that RFK has become easily one of my most favorite authors over the course of the year since I’ve discovered her work, nor will it come as a shock to anyone to learn how much I loved this book— but here we are.
This author has such a way with spinning stories that you grow increasingly addicted to and yearn for another taste of—and she feeds us WELL.
Rupert and Juliette’s story is a heaping helping of deliciously spicy goodness wrapped up in a fast-paced and emotionally rousing Rumplestiltskin retelling that will bring you to tears equally as easily as it will provoke giggles to spill from between smiling lips.
TROPES Including but not limited to:
Elves
Magic
Clever and hardworking FMC
Morally gray trickster MMC
Fairytale retelling
Plus size FMC
SPICY cooking
Found family
Women empowerment
Fated mates
“In this moment, everything is golden.”
“If I like a thing, I don’t much care where it comes from.”
“You’re very lickable.” (SIR 👀)
I will never not rave about this author and her work. Beautifully done and always so vivid.
It’s not a secret that RFK has become easily one of my most favorite authors over the course of the year since I’ve discovered her work, nor will it come as a shock to anyone to learn how much I loved this book— but here we are.
This author has such a way with spinning stories that you grow increasingly addicted to and yearn for another taste of—and she feeds us WELL.
Rupert and Juliette’s story is a heaping helping of deliciously spicy goodness wrapped up in a fast-paced and emotionally rousing Rumplestiltskin retelling that will bring you to tears equally as easily as it will provoke giggles to spill from between smiling lips.
TROPES Including but not limited to:
Elves
Magic
Clever and hardworking FMC
Morally gray trickster MMC
Fairytale retelling
Plus size FMC
SPICY cooking
Found family
Women empowerment
Fated mates
“In this moment, everything is golden.”
“If I like a thing, I don’t much care where it comes from.”
“You’re very lickable.” (SIR 👀)
I will never not rave about this author and her work. Beautifully done and always so vivid.
January 14, 2024
3.5 stars
Another great entry into Rebecca F. Kenney"s ' For love of a villain' series. This was probably my last favourite so far, but it was still an excellent read - it's just that I liked the other two (especially Sea Witch) so much that the standards are high!!
I do wish I'd re-read the tale of Romplestiltskin before jumping into this, as I could only remember bits and probably missed a few references.
I felt like the pacing dragged every now and again in this one, and noticed a few typos here and there. The last act felt rushed, which was a bit disappointing because I was so bothered by some of the characters that I really would have liked to see justice done.
And perhaps that's part of the issue - this book had a lot of really good/interesting side characters who honestly fell off the page towards the end.
But I did love our main characters, and as always for this author, they had true chemistry.
Another great entry into Rebecca F. Kenney"s ' For love of a villain' series. This was probably my last favourite so far, but it was still an excellent read - it's just that I liked the other two (especially Sea Witch) so much that the standards are high!!
I do wish I'd re-read the tale of Romplestiltskin before jumping into this, as I could only remember bits and probably missed a few references.
I felt like the pacing dragged every now and again in this one, and noticed a few typos here and there. The last act felt rushed, which was a bit disappointing because I was so bothered by some of the characters that I really would have liked to see justice done.
And perhaps that's part of the issue - this book had a lot of really good/interesting side characters who honestly fell off the page towards the end.
But I did love our main characters, and as always for this author, they had true chemistry.
December 23, 2023
I’m disappointed in myself for simping so hard for a man named Rupert
December 3, 2023
A spicy twist of a retelling on the classic tale of Rumplestiltskin. I loved the strong FMC. I enjoyed the inclusive nature of the book (sign language as a way to communicate). As always, the author does a great job mixing in old folklore into her tales to add depth to her stories.
March 14, 2025
3.75 stars
July 25, 2025
My Rating: 3.5 Stars
November 29, 2023
Loved it!
I didn't know how a retelling of Rumplestiltskin of all things would turn out - but Rebecca has woven yet another wonderful tale! Loved every moment of it, from their sweet first meeting to the very last word. Excellently told.
I didn't know how a retelling of Rumplestiltskin of all things would turn out - but Rebecca has woven yet another wonderful tale! Loved every moment of it, from their sweet first meeting to the very last word. Excellently told.
July 26, 2024
Meh this one was not it.
October 8, 2024
It is so bad, I wanna give you a 0. But that's not possible. So I give you a 1
December 14, 2023
I need to preface everything I'm about to say with the fact that I enjoyed this book. It's a good book and a fun read.
OK, now i have to say that this is my least favorite out of all of the books I've read by Rebecca Kenney. It didn't suck me in the way the others that I've read have.
The spice is still nice and spicy, the character development is still good, and the plot still has a good pace to it. It isn't a bad book at all. It just didn't have the punch that the other books I've read by Rebecca have.
I don't know if I just didn't have as much of an attachment to Rumplestiltskin as I did to the other fairytale inspired books or if Rebecca just didn't get as excited about this one. I felt about this book the way I thought I'd feel about Maleficent.
It's good, but probably not enough to make me want to dive into everything else she's ever written. Luckily this isn't the 1st book of hers I've read and I know how aweaome they are so I'm about to happily dive into some other ones to see what happens.
OK, now i have to say that this is my least favorite out of all of the books I've read by Rebecca Kenney. It didn't suck me in the way the others that I've read have.
The spice is still nice and spicy, the character development is still good, and the plot still has a good pace to it. It isn't a bad book at all. It just didn't have the punch that the other books I've read by Rebecca have.
I don't know if I just didn't have as much of an attachment to Rumplestiltskin as I did to the other fairytale inspired books or if Rebecca just didn't get as excited about this one. I felt about this book the way I thought I'd feel about Maleficent.
It's good, but probably not enough to make me want to dive into everything else she's ever written. Luckily this isn't the 1st book of hers I've read and I know how aweaome they are so I'm about to happily dive into some other ones to see what happens.
February 19, 2025
Despite the insta-love sort of trope here, I enjoyed it
Read
December 27, 2023✨ The Nameless Trickster by Rebecca Kenney ✨
Memorable Moments/Ideas:
💜 Kindness and Compassion
✨ Frosting 🥵
💜 Found Family
✨ Spicy Fairy Tale Retold
💜 Baking as a love language
I told myself I wasn’t going to read today, but quiet/nap time made it so. Having read a Court of Sugar and Spice the other day, I knew this would be a spicy, exciting retelling. I didn’t anticipate how heartfelt and emotional it would be as well.
I have always loved a good initially thought villain redemption storyline. The entire series Once Upon a Time? An absolute favorite of mine. I never think a villain is as two-dimensional as initially portrayed in children’s stories, and we see that layering redemption arc in Kenney’s Rupert. Rue - the man of many names - is a take on Rumplestiltskin, but just because someone has trickery and twists, they are not evil incarnate. That’s reserved for others who are devious and wicked.
Juliette, neither a trickster or deviant, is a strong, intelligent FMC. She’s also empathetic and connects with people. Bonus? She’s voluptuous and allows people with not only big hearts, but big bodies, to be seen, worshipped, and loved in literature. Anytime we see a strong willed women as a fat rep, I’m in. Add in the fact she’s not troped as funny, but someone who is serious and only silly behind closed doors, helps to normalize the representation of women as more than comedic or romantic stereotypes.
The storyline? Even better. I love who we see in the world, but the journey through it, also wonderfully described and detailed. I felt immersed in the world (more than I did with a Court of Sugar and Spice) and the fact that the book wasn’t lengthy at all showcases Kenney’s writing prowess at really showing without telling and using language precisely.
My favorite element in this story? The social commentary on staying silent in times of injustice and how enacting change can sometimes be extreme, but necessary. Without spoiling too much — Chapter 19 is golden — pun intended.
Spice: 🌶️🌶️.5
Recommend: YES.
Audience: People who love a good villain retelling arc. People who loved Once Upon a Time (ABC show). People who love social justice.
Memorable Moments/Ideas:
💜 Kindness and Compassion
✨ Frosting 🥵
💜 Found Family
✨ Spicy Fairy Tale Retold
💜 Baking as a love language
I told myself I wasn’t going to read today, but quiet/nap time made it so. Having read a Court of Sugar and Spice the other day, I knew this would be a spicy, exciting retelling. I didn’t anticipate how heartfelt and emotional it would be as well.
I have always loved a good initially thought villain redemption storyline. The entire series Once Upon a Time? An absolute favorite of mine. I never think a villain is as two-dimensional as initially portrayed in children’s stories, and we see that layering redemption arc in Kenney’s Rupert. Rue - the man of many names - is a take on Rumplestiltskin, but just because someone has trickery and twists, they are not evil incarnate. That’s reserved for others who are devious and wicked.
Juliette, neither a trickster or deviant, is a strong, intelligent FMC. She’s also empathetic and connects with people. Bonus? She’s voluptuous and allows people with not only big hearts, but big bodies, to be seen, worshipped, and loved in literature. Anytime we see a strong willed women as a fat rep, I’m in. Add in the fact she’s not troped as funny, but someone who is serious and only silly behind closed doors, helps to normalize the representation of women as more than comedic or romantic stereotypes.
The storyline? Even better. I love who we see in the world, but the journey through it, also wonderfully described and detailed. I felt immersed in the world (more than I did with a Court of Sugar and Spice) and the fact that the book wasn’t lengthy at all showcases Kenney’s writing prowess at really showing without telling and using language precisely.
My favorite element in this story? The social commentary on staying silent in times of injustice and how enacting change can sometimes be extreme, but necessary. Without spoiling too much — Chapter 19 is golden — pun intended.
Spice: 🌶️🌶️.5
Recommend: YES.
Audience: People who love a good villain retelling arc. People who loved Once Upon a Time (ABC show). People who love social justice.
January 14, 2024
🌶️🌶️🌶️
What will they do to her when they find out she has no magic?
We have lore about the source of magic. Our Creator Goddess gave it to the Early Ones, also called the Kin, the Chosen, or the Elves. They used it to tend the woods, tame the seas, and improve the world.
I must remember my priorities. Fuck Juliette first. Then get her to bake for me.
“Didn’t need to. Wanted to.” He grins. “You’re very lickable.”
“Half-Elf. And I’d rather no one knew about it, so if you’ll kindly keep the knowledge to yourself, I’ll be grateful.”
“But I do need a corset. Without the support, my back starts to hurt.” “I can imagine, toting those things around…” I nod at her tits. “Fucking gorgeous, they are. I’ve never seen a pair so fine.”
My real name is a chain. A weapon. Shackles and slavery.
“I’m still a burglar and a brigand. A thief, a wanderer, a rogue, and a trickster.
“You don’t like full-figured women?” She plants both hands on her hips. “Oh, I like them very much.”
I’m a predator crazed with need, salivating for a taste of sweet flesh.
Every bit of me is trembling, turned to jelly by that magical tongue.
“So sweet, but there’s a spice to your flavor, too. I can’t get enough. Can you bake me a pie that tastes like your cunt?”
Real love doesn’t abandon, doesn’t forget. It ponders and works and plans. It searches out its object and will not be satisfied until it has found that other part of itself and become whole again.
But he’s drained now, helpless and empty, and he can’t rescue me anymore. I have to be the one who saves him, before it’s too late for either of us.
My responsibility to this group doesn’t end when the march does. A businesswoman is responsible for her employees, and a revolutionary is responsible for those who follow her, no matter how impulsively her revolution began.
I’m your slave, Juliette, and not by my name, or any compulsion except my love.”
What will they do to her when they find out she has no magic?
We have lore about the source of magic. Our Creator Goddess gave it to the Early Ones, also called the Kin, the Chosen, or the Elves. They used it to tend the woods, tame the seas, and improve the world.
I must remember my priorities. Fuck Juliette first. Then get her to bake for me.
“Didn’t need to. Wanted to.” He grins. “You’re very lickable.”
“Half-Elf. And I’d rather no one knew about it, so if you’ll kindly keep the knowledge to yourself, I’ll be grateful.”
“But I do need a corset. Without the support, my back starts to hurt.” “I can imagine, toting those things around…” I nod at her tits. “Fucking gorgeous, they are. I’ve never seen a pair so fine.”
My real name is a chain. A weapon. Shackles and slavery.
“I’m still a burglar and a brigand. A thief, a wanderer, a rogue, and a trickster.
“You don’t like full-figured women?” She plants both hands on her hips. “Oh, I like them very much.”
I’m a predator crazed with need, salivating for a taste of sweet flesh.
Every bit of me is trembling, turned to jelly by that magical tongue.
“So sweet, but there’s a spice to your flavor, too. I can’t get enough. Can you bake me a pie that tastes like your cunt?”
Real love doesn’t abandon, doesn’t forget. It ponders and works and plans. It searches out its object and will not be satisfied until it has found that other part of itself and become whole again.
But he’s drained now, helpless and empty, and he can’t rescue me anymore. I have to be the one who saves him, before it’s too late for either of us.
My responsibility to this group doesn’t end when the march does. A businesswoman is responsible for her employees, and a revolutionary is responsible for those who follow her, no matter how impulsively her revolution began.
I’m your slave, Juliette, and not by my name, or any compulsion except my love.”
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 20, 2025
Overall rating: 4.5/5
Spice: 4/5
Narrator: no audio book ☹
Cliffhanger: 0/5
Spice: 4/5
Narrator: no audio book ☹
Cliffhanger: 0/5
My biggest issue with this book is that there is no audiobook. Though given audiobooks are thoroughly interwoven into my life and routine the fact that I carved out time to read this (and finish it) says a lot about how much I enjoyed it. I’d love to relisten to it but I don’t have the time to sit and reread.
In a world of five thousand Cinderella and Beauty & the Beast Retellings this was fun and refreshing and, damn, it takes talent to make Rumpelstiltskin sexy. And it was sexy. This is a pretty spicy book (not as spicy as her Wicked Darlings books but damn spicy.)
I loved that this is about ordinary people (and a half-elf) not about royals or novels or anyone elite (except the villain but he doesn’t count). Juliette is perfectly admirable and relatable, different from most MFCs as an energetic, hard-working, plus-sized, go-getter. The MMC is a damaged thief and con-artist, wandering around, doing little harm but no good until he meets Juliette and is inspired to save her, and ultimately become a better man.
I also loved the lore about the elves and how they interacted in this universe as well as how the author used every important piece of the Rumpelstiltskin story in new and inventive ways.
Personally, I could do without the icky details Rebecca F. Kenney provides when it comes to things like torture and menstruation, but I can respect and even admire that she is willing to step away from the pack and isn’t afraid to bring it to the next level.
I hope this and the rest of the Beloved Villains books do eventually come out in audio. This is my favorite collection of hers.
February 7, 2025
This is the third book in the Beloved Villains series. (standalone) It’s also the first one I have read from the series, but I own most of them. I have been wanting to pick this one up for a while now so I decided to simply go for it this month.
This book follows Juliette. She’s a baker with a great plan for her future, but her troublesome brother has been making it hard for her to really accomplish her dreams. He has a bit of a money problem and that tends to put him and their finances in high water. The book starts off with her realizing her brother has taken the hard-earned coin for the day and as if life cannot get worse. He. sells. her. out. to. the. king. Not in a turning her in for a crime type of turn in. No, this man made up a blatent lie that she has magic which just so happens to be what the king is looking for, to get some gold. Gold to pay off his most pressing debt. Being sold and under false pretenses, no less, isn’t even the worst of it. The king has been rounding up so many women with magical abilities in claims he is looking for a wife but it’s so much worse than that. This wrinkly old nasty bugger wants a handful of women to...uhh..bring to pound town? He not only wants to force these poor women to his bed, but if they pass his magical and pleasure tests, they will be forced to bear him children. If they fail, well, he’s not afraid to remove a limb or two.
In steps Rupert, well not really Rupert. That’s just the guise a half elf took on to get to Juliette before the king soils her. He wants her first. Despite that not being why Rupert came to Juliette for he decides to help her turn straw into gold. After a night of helping her his feelings change for what he wants from her and what she wants from him.
Things You Can Expect:
Baking gets spicy
Magically enhanced desserts?
Women Taking Back the Power
This book follows Juliette. She’s a baker with a great plan for her future, but her troublesome brother has been making it hard for her to really accomplish her dreams. He has a bit of a money problem and that tends to put him and their finances in high water. The book starts off with her realizing her brother has taken the hard-earned coin for the day and as if life cannot get worse. He. sells. her. out. to. the. king. Not in a turning her in for a crime type of turn in. No, this man made up a blatent lie that she has magic which just so happens to be what the king is looking for, to get some gold. Gold to pay off his most pressing debt. Being sold and under false pretenses, no less, isn’t even the worst of it. The king has been rounding up so many women with magical abilities in claims he is looking for a wife but it’s so much worse than that. This wrinkly old nasty bugger wants a handful of women to...uhh..bring to pound town? He not only wants to force these poor women to his bed, but if they pass his magical and pleasure tests, they will be forced to bear him children. If they fail, well, he’s not afraid to remove a limb or two.
In steps Rupert, well not really Rupert. That’s just the guise a half elf took on to get to Juliette before the king soils her. He wants her first. Despite that not being why Rupert came to Juliette for he decides to help her turn straw into gold. After a night of helping her his feelings change for what he wants from her and what she wants from him.
Things You Can Expect:
Baking gets spicy
Magically enhanced desserts?
Women Taking Back the Power
August 5, 2024
I enjoyed this story with all the characters that were within this book. The main characters were Juliette and Rupert.
Juliette lives in a village with her brother. She has been running her family mill since her father passed away. Her brother likes to run off and gets into trouble a lot. This time, he does something that she has to help him with. Now she has to go to the palace. Because her brother told a lie. When she gets to the palace, she meets a man named Rupert. He is different from the rest of the guards.
Rupert is an elf. He also has another name. But if his other name is used, then he must do whatever that person wishes. While walking through the village, he meets a young woman.
She gets taken away to the palace, and he decided to follow them. When he finds out that the king has plans for her, he decides to help her. Because he knows magic.
This was a fun story to read. It has action, adventure, suspense, and drama throughout.
It had a few giggles within. This is the three book in a series. The series is called Beloved Villains. There is a bit of steamy throughout the story. It was a neat twist to the story of Rumplestiltskin.
I read the first book in this series of stories and decided to read the three books. I like the original story of Rumplestiltskin and wanted to read this. This is my honest, unbiased opinion.
Juliette lives in a village with her brother. She has been running her family mill since her father passed away. Her brother likes to run off and gets into trouble a lot. This time, he does something that she has to help him with. Now she has to go to the palace. Because her brother told a lie. When she gets to the palace, she meets a man named Rupert. He is different from the rest of the guards.
Rupert is an elf. He also has another name. But if his other name is used, then he must do whatever that person wishes. While walking through the village, he meets a young woman.
She gets taken away to the palace, and he decided to follow them. When he finds out that the king has plans for her, he decides to help her. Because he knows magic.
This was a fun story to read. It has action, adventure, suspense, and drama throughout.
It had a few giggles within. This is the three book in a series. The series is called Beloved Villains. There is a bit of steamy throughout the story. It was a neat twist to the story of Rumplestiltskin.
I read the first book in this series of stories and decided to read the three books. I like the original story of Rumplestiltskin and wanted to read this. This is my honest, unbiased opinion.
October 23, 2025
Loved loved loved it!
Wow just wow. I'm devouring these books. I love dark fantasy, and I'm also a fan of retellings. I've read only one other Rumplestiltskin retelling before and while I absolutely loved that one, this one takes the cake. The character development and world building was perfect. From the start, Rupert was kind of flighty and didn't much care for more than what fancied him, what amused him. Which is perfectly valid. After all, as half elf, half human, belonging no where, having no one, what else is one supposed to do? But from the first moment of meeting Juliette, he was obsessed, and slowly he changed. And Juliette. She's a strong woman, a business woman, a baker, struggling to make ends meet because a gambling brother and her love and loyalty to him. Until he gambles away her freedom, selling her to the King, lying about how she can spin straw into gold. Her love and her loyalty to him keep her quiet, but slowly, she comes into her own feminine power, fiercely, when faced with the cold reality of her fate. And meeting Rupert, him saving her, brings them together in an instant strong bond. Together they face danger and intrigue, never once wavering in their devotion to each other. I loved it, absolutely loved it.
Wow just wow. I'm devouring these books. I love dark fantasy, and I'm also a fan of retellings. I've read only one other Rumplestiltskin retelling before and while I absolutely loved that one, this one takes the cake. The character development and world building was perfect. From the start, Rupert was kind of flighty and didn't much care for more than what fancied him, what amused him. Which is perfectly valid. After all, as half elf, half human, belonging no where, having no one, what else is one supposed to do? But from the first moment of meeting Juliette, he was obsessed, and slowly he changed. And Juliette. She's a strong woman, a business woman, a baker, struggling to make ends meet because a gambling brother and her love and loyalty to him. Until he gambles away her freedom, selling her to the King, lying about how she can spin straw into gold. Her love and her loyalty to him keep her quiet, but slowly, she comes into her own feminine power, fiercely, when faced with the cold reality of her fate. And meeting Rupert, him saving her, brings them together in an instant strong bond. Together they face danger and intrigue, never once wavering in their devotion to each other. I loved it, absolutely loved it.
November 18, 2024
Rupert and Juliette
Awwwww I love this story. I love Rupert and Juliette. I loved this version of Rumplestiltskin. They are so MFEO.
Granted, I hated seeing them suffer the horrible cruelty of the King along with so many others in this kingdom. But Rupert and Juliette were tenaciously and fiercely determined to withstand and overcome all obstacles to save each other. Their heroic and valiant actions led to a hard won payoff for the entire kingdom.
THEN, right on the heels of literally conquering a despicable ruler against all odds allowing Juliette and Rupert to finally achieve their greatest dream to be together, the terms of the bargain Juliette makes to save Rupert are set to crush their souls. I could hardly bare to read it and I was on the verge of serious tears when the unbelievable happened and I rejoiced for the spectacular ending. Thank you for that! 🥹🥹🥹
Other thoughts…
The lore of the elves and half-elves reminded me so much of Vulcans it kind of made me chuckle. It seemed so opposite of any other lore I’ve read about elves, but it definitely added to the suspense and danger of the story arc. 🖖 LLAP
Awwwww I love this story. I love Rupert and Juliette. I loved this version of Rumplestiltskin. They are so MFEO.
Granted, I hated seeing them suffer the horrible cruelty of the King along with so many others in this kingdom. But Rupert and Juliette were tenaciously and fiercely determined to withstand and overcome all obstacles to save each other. Their heroic and valiant actions led to a hard won payoff for the entire kingdom.
THEN, right on the heels of literally conquering a despicable ruler against all odds allowing Juliette and Rupert to finally achieve their greatest dream to be together, the terms of the bargain Juliette makes to save Rupert are set to crush their souls. I could hardly bare to read it and I was on the verge of serious tears when the unbelievable happened and I rejoiced for the spectacular ending. Thank you for that! 🥹🥹🥹
Other thoughts…
The lore of the elves and half-elves reminded me so much of Vulcans it kind of made me chuckle. It seemed so opposite of any other lore I’ve read about elves, but it definitely added to the suspense and danger of the story arc. 🖖 LLAP
August 31, 2024
Book Club Book
I went into this book thinking I was gonna hate it based on another person's thoughts, but I don't think I hate it, truly.
The king was deplorable, his actions of mutilation were gruesome, and the way he treated those around him was undeniably terrible. I'm glad he's dead. Honestly.
Rupert / Rumplestiltskin was a good MMC. He had all the dishonorable intentions in the beginning ... take what he wanted & leave ... but that didn't happen, initially, or maybe it did. Hrmmmm
Juliette was pretty good, too. I liked that she was strong emotionally and mentally. She worked through the situational problems. I did hate her for allowing her brother to get her into this mess, but I guess it all worked out for the greater good of her country.
There was a political under current to the book. The author wanted the reader to see how the world of politics and the rulers in place can be detrimental even if the laws or rulers don't directly affect you. I thought it was weaved rather cleverly.
I went into this book thinking I was gonna hate it based on another person's thoughts, but I don't think I hate it, truly.
The king was deplorable, his actions of mutilation were gruesome, and the way he treated those around him was undeniably terrible. I'm glad he's dead. Honestly.
Rupert / Rumplestiltskin was a good MMC. He had all the dishonorable intentions in the beginning ... take what he wanted & leave ... but that didn't happen, initially, or maybe it did. Hrmmmm
Juliette was pretty good, too. I liked that she was strong emotionally and mentally. She worked through the situational problems. I did hate her for allowing her brother to get her into this mess, but I guess it all worked out for the greater good of her country.
There was a political under current to the book. The author wanted the reader to see how the world of politics and the rulers in place can be detrimental even if the laws or rulers don't directly affect you. I thought it was weaved rather cleverly.
February 13, 2024
Unfortunately this book wasn’t for me 😩
I love representation, and as a chunky woman, I was looking forward to reading about a non-stereotypical curvy FMC. However, I wasn’t a fan of the continuous mention and descriptions of her body size. I suppose some of these descriptions are necessary for the reader to grasp her body type but I wasn’t into it and it prevented me from enjoying the story.
I love how in every RFK book, the spicy scenes are different. At this point, I’ve read 9 of her books and each relationship has their own “thing” (for a lack of a better word). Some of the spicy scenes in this book were absolutely not for me. I think RFK’s intention was to include a situation that is widely perceived as a “turnoff” to try and normalize it, and I appreciate that, but it was not for me.
I love representation, and as a chunky woman, I was looking forward to reading about a non-stereotypical curvy FMC. However, I wasn’t a fan of the continuous mention and descriptions of her body size. I suppose some of these descriptions are necessary for the reader to grasp her body type but I wasn’t into it and it prevented me from enjoying the story.
I love how in every RFK book, the spicy scenes are different. At this point, I’ve read 9 of her books and each relationship has their own “thing” (for a lack of a better word). Some of the spicy scenes in this book were absolutely not for me. I think RFK’s intention was to include a situation that is widely perceived as a “turnoff” to try and normalize it, and I appreciate that, but it was not for me.
March 27, 2024
Exciting and nerve-wracking twist on the Rumplestiltskin tale
A curvy, smart, compassionate business-minded heroine who loves to bake, and a sneaky, hungry, se×ual half-elf trickster.
This was an exciting and nerve-wracking reimagining of the Rumplestiltskin tale. Just when you think there is no hope, hope arrives. Then, once you get comfortable and think things are going great, things no longer go great. The story was very well done, and the journey towards the climax was intense. So good.
I hope the ending is a hint toward a future book in the Villain series.
The whole series has been fantastic. If you love seeing the "villain" win and want some spiciness in the retellings, the For the Love of the Villain series is perfect.
A curvy, smart, compassionate business-minded heroine who loves to bake, and a sneaky, hungry, se×ual half-elf trickster.
This was an exciting and nerve-wracking reimagining of the Rumplestiltskin tale. Just when you think there is no hope, hope arrives. Then, once you get comfortable and think things are going great, things no longer go great. The story was very well done, and the journey towards the climax was intense. So good.
I hope the ending is a hint toward a future book in the Villain series.
The whole series has been fantastic. If you love seeing the "villain" win and want some spiciness in the retellings, the For the Love of the Villain series is perfect.
June 25, 2024
Compared to the other two books in this series, I didn't like this one as much. It didn't have the same enemies-to-lovers feel that the first two books had. Juliette's love and loyalty got her in over her head, yet to be honest they got her out as well.
While I liked the main characters, there was no real sexual tension and Juliette was ready to drop her panties as soon as the first room was transformed into gold. I really just kept reading for the assassination plot. Wanting to know how that was going to go down. While I liked the characters they were also a bit bland. The romance aspect was also a bit to quick for me. The plot was ok but also a little blah at times. The twist at the end was really well done. Yet over all not as good as I thought it was going to be.
While I liked the main characters, there was no real sexual tension and Juliette was ready to drop her panties as soon as the first room was transformed into gold. I really just kept reading for the assassination plot. Wanting to know how that was going to go down. While I liked the characters they were also a bit bland. The romance aspect was also a bit to quick for me. The plot was ok but also a little blah at times. The twist at the end was really well done. Yet over all not as good as I thought it was going to be.
November 29, 2025
DNF at 50%. I really tried. Romances with this much spice are not for me. Rupert was so creepy from page one and didn’t get better. Juliette’s character didn’t make sense to me. Is she weak and a people pleaser that needs saved? Is she a strong independent woman? I found it annoying in the beginning where she’s just saying Why? Why? Why? I couldn’t get a good picture of the setting. I’m thinking medieval times but then he “hailed a cab”? I didn’t even think the spicy scenes were that good. I didn’t get to the end obviously but it also felt like a literal re telling with spice added. Every time I try to just “get it over with” I was so frustrated. I’m going to go ahead and say this is the worst book I’ve read this year. It tops my other DNFs.
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December 2, 2023
Harrowing and Heartfelt
When I saw Rebecca Kenney wrote a Rumplestiltskin retelling I was genuinely doubting the ability to make this tale spicy or romantic but I really should never underestimate her. I love the main character's fiery nature and the character growth as she learns where her loyalties should lie, who to trust, and what she wants to stand up for. Their love story is potent and fun and explosive, and I loved every minute of it. Throw in some great political subtext and you have an amazing book, which should come as no surprise from this author who consistently delivers.
When I saw Rebecca Kenney wrote a Rumplestiltskin retelling I was genuinely doubting the ability to make this tale spicy or romantic but I really should never underestimate her. I love the main character's fiery nature and the character growth as she learns where her loyalties should lie, who to trust, and what she wants to stand up for. Their love story is potent and fun and explosive, and I loved every minute of it. Throw in some great political subtext and you have an amazing book, which should come as no surprise from this author who consistently delivers.
December 3, 2023
Kenney is an insta-read for me and I absolutely adored The Maleficent Fairy and The Sea Witch. I had high hopes that this book would match the level of the other two in the series and it really fell flat.
I really struggled to care about anything that was happening in this book. The overall plot just didn't seem compelling or to make that much sense, and it was soooooo slooooooooow. It wasn't until almost 60% in where the FMC needs to learn the MMC's name that things really got interesting and the pace increased significantly. Kenney tries to make a subtle connection to her other books by mentioning Faerie, but it was shoehorned in.
I really struggled to care about anything that was happening in this book. The overall plot just didn't seem compelling or to make that much sense, and it was soooooo slooooooooow. It wasn't until almost 60% in where the FMC needs to learn the MMC's name that things really got interesting and the pace increased significantly. Kenney tries to make a subtle connection to her other books by mentioning Faerie, but it was shoehorned in.
April 30, 2024
|The Nameless Trickster| ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
By @rebeccafkenneybooks
This is a Rumpelstiltskin retelling. I loved the confidence of the curvy FMC. She is also super independent and positive. Kinda perfect if you ask me. I see why Rue loves her. Rue is a great MMC. He has a bit of a praise kink, which is adorable and I loved it so much!!
Juliette is accused of having the ability to spin straw into gold, which lands her in dream/nightmare situation as a potential bride of the king! When it’s time to show her nonexistent magic, Rupert shows up to lend her a hand. When Rue first meets Juliette he just attracted but can’t seem to let her go. Now he must save her from an abusive king.
By @rebeccafkenneybooks
This is a Rumpelstiltskin retelling. I loved the confidence of the curvy FMC. She is also super independent and positive. Kinda perfect if you ask me. I see why Rue loves her. Rue is a great MMC. He has a bit of a praise kink, which is adorable and I loved it so much!!
Juliette is accused of having the ability to spin straw into gold, which lands her in dream/nightmare situation as a potential bride of the king! When it’s time to show her nonexistent magic, Rupert shows up to lend her a hand. When Rue first meets Juliette he just attracted but can’t seem to let her go. Now he must save her from an abusive king.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 31, 2023
3.5 stars
This actually had a more interesting plot than I anticipated. It was a cute take on the Rumplestiltskin tale, and it stuck to the original pretty decently. Often I find retellings are LOOSE. This was definitely a retelling, not simply inspired.
Anyhoodle, the sexybits were sparse and not terribly memorable. If you're putting a naked man chest on your book cover, you need to back that up with some decent tales of wang. I would say this one is read more for the story than the sexybits.
This actually had a more interesting plot than I anticipated. It was a cute take on the Rumplestiltskin tale, and it stuck to the original pretty decently. Often I find retellings are LOOSE. This was definitely a retelling, not simply inspired.
Anyhoodle, the sexybits were sparse and not terribly memorable. If you're putting a naked man chest on your book cover, you need to back that up with some decent tales of wang. I would say this one is read more for the story than the sexybits.
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