The Cadence of Crowns

by R.V. Wilbur

What is there to live on after tragedy but a story to be told?

When a fateful encounter leads lone wolf Wren Klaver to close her eyes on earth and open them in Breteria—an ancient realm nestled among the stars—she finds herself at the center of a world created from magic, trapped within a kingdom on the brink of rebellion.

Determined to find a way back, Wren secures a place in the court of the powerful but vindictive king and awaits the magic he vows will send her home. Becoming immersed in the lavish nightly dances, she captures the attention of the king’s personal guard—the soldier who exacts his justice—and discovers that he holds a dangerous secret of his own.

When her days spent in the castle reveal a history long forgotten by time, Wren discovers that the past may hold the most powerful magic of all…

Genres: Fantasy, Romantasy

Unknown Binding

Published December 24, 2024

About the author

R.V. Wilbur has been in love with reading ever since she received her first Little Golden Book library at the age of two. A love of words soon followed and, after publishing selected poems, she drafted her first book at the age of thirteen. Despite all of this she is still somehow terrible at writing blurbs, so this is about all you get. She currently resides in North Carolina with her husband, two children, and of course her black cat Rory Pond. And she's probably drinking coffee. No, she is definitely drinking coffee.

Follow her on Instagram @RVWilburAuthor for all writing updates!

Reviews

[Clara (bookish_clara) · Rating 5 out of 5]

There really isn’t enough words to describe just how beautifully enchanting this book is. The nutcracker is one of my favourites so when I saw The Cadence of Crowns would have vibes based on that I couldn’t wait to read it and wow it really didn’t disappoint.

The writing is absolutely beautiful R.V. Wilbur has a way of pulling you in and keeping you enthralled from beginning to end, there is no dip in the storytelling or pacing everything flows at such an amazing development that you can’t help but turn the page to see what happens next. The way the emotions of a scene can make you feel as if you are in that moment is amazing. The atmosphere and descriptions of everything is perfect, the world building is so easy to understand and gives you the perfect fantasy romance to get lost in.

Wren and Timothius’ story is a slow burn romance filled with longing touches and lingering glances there is no spice- but it really doesn’t need it, the tension alone carries the story forward. I loved Wren as a fmc she is a force to be reckoned with from the very beginning but also so relatable I enjoyed every minute of learning about her story. Timothius’ journey was so so heartbreaking and my heart broke for him so many times but I also loved how swoon worthy he was as well. Elric may be one of my favourite side characters ever he is without flaw, I loved his character so much as well as so many others.

There is an epilogue and it does come with a warning for a very good reason..it broke my heart and now I will be patiently waiting for all the answers.

[Teresa · Rating 5 out of 5]

✨𝒜𝑅𝒞 𝑅𝑒𝓋𝒾𝑒𝓌✨
📖: The Cadence of Crowns (Legend of the Trifolium Thrones, Book 1)

“𝘈𝘯𝘥 𝘪𝘧 𝘐 𝘢𝘮 𝘺𝘰𝘶𝘳 𝘩𝘦𝘢𝘳𝘵, 𝘵𝘩𝘦𝘯 𝘬𝘯𝘰𝘸 𝘵𝘩𝘢𝘵 𝘧𝘰𝘳 𝘢𝘴 𝘭𝘰𝘯𝘨 𝘢𝘴 𝘪𝘵 𝘣𝘦𝘢𝘵𝘴, 𝘐 𝘸𝘪𝘭𝘭 𝘣𝘦𝘭𝘰𝘯𝘨 𝘵𝘰 𝘺𝘰𝘶.”

In this Nutcracker-inspired tale, Wren is transported into another world and time where she is caught between a kingdom riddled with unrest and secret rebellions. With only her wits to guide her, she navigates the dangerous court of the Rat King and his merciless allies in the hopes of returning to her own reality. But will she actually miss anything from her previous life?

Tropes:
💫 Fantasy-forward Romance
🔭 Lost Royals
📜 Ancient Legends
🫥 Hidden Identities
⚔️ Secret Rebellion
🔥 Slow Burn Romance
🗣️ Banter & Flirting while Dancing
🎭 Masked men

“…𝘠𝘰𝘶 𝘯𝘰 𝘭𝘰𝘯𝘨𝘦𝘳 𝘤𝘢𝘳𝘳𝘺 𝘮𝘺 𝘩𝘦𝘢𝘳𝘵, 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘢𝘳𝘦 𝘮𝘺 𝘩𝘦𝘢𝘳𝘵. 𝘌𝘷𝘦𝘳𝘺 𝘣𝘦𝘢𝘵, 𝘦𝘷𝘦𝘳𝘺 𝘣𝘳𝘦𝘢𝘵𝘩, 𝘢𝘭𝘭 𝘵𝘩𝘢𝘵 𝘐 𝘢𝘮 𝘪𝘴 𝘺𝘰𝘶𝘳𝘴.”

The world building and prose is exquisite. I loved the immersive and imaginative landscape of Breteria and the ancient legends and magic.

We are introduced to a bold and tenacious heroine who has worked so hard in life but never felt valued or seen by anyone other than her grandmother. Her journey of self discovery begins where ancient legend, memories, and magic exists. Wren is my new girl crush and I adored every interaction she shares with Timothius. Their romance is engrossing yet restrained, wistful, and enchanting.

In The Cadence of Crowns, R.V. Wilbur skillfully weaves high-stakes political intrigue meets a slow-burn fantasy romance. This book is excitingly original, ardent, and simply magical.

This book can be read as a standalone or as an interwoven series through its interconnecting epilogues. I cannot wait to see what the next books bring!

Huge thanks to the author for the ARC opportunity! This is my honest and voluntary review

[Robin · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is pure magic and deserves EVERY SINGLE STAR!! Renée took all the best parts of The Nutcracker and the Mouse King, Outlander, and Merlin and crafted a unique and magical world filled with legends, mystery, rebellion, friendship, love, and acceptance.

After receiving a gift from her grandmother, Wren wakes up in an ancient realm not knowing who to trust and one goal - to get back home again. I loved how I got to experience and learn about the world right alongside Wren. The imagery is so vivid you will feel like you are in the story with all its enchanting beauty and sinister parts too.

Her writing style always evokes so much emotion from me and this book was no different! There were multiple scenes that caused misty eyes and one scene that left me with tears falling! She is incredible at pulling that gut-wrenching emotion from you!!

The relationships that Wren forms along the way resulted in several characters becoming instant favorites. The banter and tension between Wren and Timothius had me begging for more and completely giddy! But beyond that, the way they both helped each other feel seen and were there for each other in the darkest of moments was portrayed to perfection!!

The unraveling of the mysteries and reveals were executed brilliantly. And even being warned before the epilogue to proceed with caution, I couldn’t resist taking the plunge and now I will be waiting not so patiently for the next interconnected standalone in this world!!

[day · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 ⭐ - Thank you to the author for the arc in exchange for an honest review!

Oh my STARS this was a good book and that epilogue??? Thank you for the included warning because it was BRUTAL

"There is no life for me outside of the one I have dreamed of with you. You do not have my heart, you are my heart."

🍀 fantasy with romance!
🍀 loose nutcracker retelling
🍀 anastasia and dmitri vibes!!
🍀 another (magical) realm
🍀 lost royalty
🍀 magic and mages
🍀 masked people
🍀 tyrant kings and rebellion

"I will dream without you, but it will always be of you. In every dream, I will dance with you."

If you can't already tell from the quotes, this book is beautiful. The worldbuilding, the magic, the romance, the friendships- every part of it is so carefully crafted to become an amazing story.

From the start, I absolutely loved the nutcracker vibes, not just from the plot but the little character easter eggs too! (Timothius Drossel - Drosselmeyer and the Rat King!) The characters were also very well written and OKAY WRENNNNN YOU GO GIRL!!! Her character development was peak 😩 I also fell in love with the other characters (esp Elric!!) and would have loved to see even more development between all their relationships 😌 also I CANT SPOIL but some parts devastated me like my mouth was wide open 😧😮 (*cough* the epilogue *cough*)

This book is so full of magic and whimsy and I devoured it- RV Wilbur's writing is just so captivating and enjoyable to read! Every page just got better and better. The worldbuilding and magic system are extensive and very well done, and I love the concept of the different forest seasons (heavyyyy nutcracker and the four realms vibes 😌)

Would definitely recommend for the nutcracker and anastasia vibes!! AND WHERE IS BOOK 2 I NEED IT NOW ☹️☹️

[Kay’s Library · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Cadence of Crowns
~Spoiler Free & Honest ARC Review~
5 ⭐️ R.V. Wilbur

Do you remember the 2007 Disney film Enchanted? The one where a fairytale Prince and Princess end up in modern day New York City? Well, The Cadence of Crowns is like that, but reverse. 🤭

City girl Wren is gifted an ornament by her grandmother for Christmas that somehow magically transports her to a whimsical realm in the dead of night. She is found and saved by Timothous an attractive and kind man, but also a murderer????😅 Deciding to reluctantly trust this man and his adorable ginger friend Elric, they go on an adventure to return Wren back home.

This book was an absolute delight! The holiday and nutcracker magic, the witty humor made me laugh out loud on multiple occasions, and the ROMANCE is oh-so swoony 😭

This was also gut-wrenching in the most beautiful ways 😩 I truly do not cry easily at books… but this one had me sobbing at 1AM 🥲

Also- if you read the epilogue, please take the warning more seriously than I did. I was NOT READY FOR THAT ENDING 😭😭😭

I am officially claiming R. V. Wilbur as my favorite author of all time. I have read all of her published works, including this ARC. She is the most well written author I’ve ever read. Her prose is filled with wonder and whimsy. Everything she writes is nothing short of breathtaking and I will buy everything she writes, and scream her name from the mountains!!!
😭

If you have not read anything by R. V. Wilbur, let this be your sign to pick up one of her books! Treat yourself by preordering The Cadence of Crowns and have it delivered to you on Christmas Eve. You are in for the most cozy and enchanting Christmas Eve of your life!

[Megs: Knee Wall Reads · Rating 5 out of 5]

ADD THIS TO YOUR TBR, please! I read it one setting because I could not put it down.

I just finished the book and instantly turned on the book playlist to go with it. Because I am not ready to let this story and characters go. This has been one of my most favorite books this year.

The Cadence of Crowns combines the classical fairytale elements with the magical chaos that only RV can only weave.

If you need an intro into fantasy, start with this one! Hands down. It eases you into the world of Breteria without being overwhelming. And by the end of the book you NEEEEEEEED more.

Wren is so relatable, so many of her inner thoughts, I have shared. She has such strength and bravery that you see throughout the story. Her character arc in this book is inspiring.

Timothius, my heart aches for him and his backstory. I will protect him forever. The sacrifices he has made speaks volumes to his character. He is also a gentlemen. T's and Elric's relationship is also the best. Need more of it.

Special shoutout to the lovable side characters of Elric, Reginald and the littlest meadow mole, Milo.

I am so excited for the rest of the series (also need it so bad) because I did not heed the epilogue warning (and there is one). RV is a queen of the cliffhanger.

[Kimberly || apairofreaders · Rating 5 out of 5]

AHHHH.

That was my initial review. I suppose I should write more, though. READ. THIS. BOOK. It's a beautiful Nutcracker-inspired tale full of secrets, masked men, adventure, masked men, and romance. Did I mention the masked man?

R.V. Wilbur's writing was a beautiful mix of introspective prose and riveting story. I yelled (a lot) and had a lot of theories and was on the edge of my seat the entire time. I CANNOT wait to see what happens in the next chapter of the story.

The book ends on either a Happily Ever After or, if you so choose, an epilogue. I chose to go on to the epilogue and screamed because now I need book two!!!

[Noelle · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow. Bravo!

From page one of the prologue I was swept into this beautiful and magical world. It gives major EPIC Romantasy vibes and you will not want to miss this read. The writing was so eloquent and many times I could not believe how beautiful the words were. It was so descriptive allowing me to imagine the beauty of the story in my own mind. This story was its own beautiful performance… where the sentences and paragraphs danced across the pages to spin an irresistible and bewitching tale.

The Cadence of Crowns has everything - the most amazing slow burn, found family/purpose, heart break, action, and more. I really love how the author gives you the information you need to either read the story as a stand alone or as a series. You also can read the story and have a happily ever after where the story is tied up with a nice little bow… or you can opt to read the epilogue and end on a cliffhanger and have your heart broken. Obviously… I opted for my heart to be ripped out and thrown to the ground but wow that ending was not what I was expecting and had me in tears.

I can’t wait to re read and pick up the lore/history more and catch the Easter eggs I’m sure I missed.

[Victoria · Rating 5 out of 5]

I will have to let this book stew for a bit before posting my full review. But needless to say, as she is one of my favorite indie authors, R.V. Wilbur does. not. miss. This book is magical and brilliant and will leave you ready for more. I am so excited for this book to be published and to read future books in this series. Just an absolutely beautiful Nutcracker retelling.

Thank you to the author for allowing me to read an advanced reader copy of her book. It meant the world to me. (Also, if urban romantasy is more your scene, I highly recommend checking out her Virtues series. It's fantastic and gut wrenching. The third book comes out next spring.)

[eclecticbychoicereads · Rating 5 out of 5]

“I have seen what I cannot reach. I have brushed what I cannot keep and touched what cannot be mine. I would rather be taunted with its loss at every turn than see love as only a distant dream.”

Oh, and what a dream it was! The Cadence of Crowns by R.V. Vilbur is a dream come true, one that you will willingly enter and surrender your very own heart and soul. You will leave them there to be squeezed and crushed, yet at the same time, they will almost burst from the amount of emotions you will feel and experience.

How can a book be this good? How can it be so deeply and devastatingly beautiful? How can it take such a hold on me, making me cry and sob over and over again? And still, I would do it all over again, time and time. This story deserves it.

"He never danced before he met you."

Be still, my heart, be still. But, with words like these, how can it be still? How can it be still witnessing all the heartache and pain both Wren and Timithius experienced? How can it be still to see something beautiful and special forming between them? Not only them, but each and every character now holds a special place in my heart.

I may have initially been drawn to the story by the notions of the Outlander and the Nut Cracker, but it has long since become so much more than that.

The Cadence of Crowns is more than a portal fantasy with the addition of a slow-burn romance, reluctant heroes, hidden identities, lost royals, ancient legends, and secret rebellions. It is a heart-wrenching story of love, pain, hurt, complete and utter devotion. It is a story of giving everything and losing everything to the fight for a better world. It is a story of finally being seen, truly seen and appreciated, with all the good and the bad that reside within you. It is a story of finding your true home and discovering that, sometimes, a home isn't a place but a person. It is a story of finding and accepting you, the true you. It is a story of love and friendship. It is a story of everything.

The Cadence of Crowns will be released on December 24th. What more could I say? Maybe I should let someone else speak...

"I have found my great love, and it is you".
"And you are my endless dream."

[Kerry · Rating 5 out of 5]

I truly do not have words for how beautiful this book is. RV weaves a tale that immerses you in a new world much like the FMC. Wren is a force to be reckoned with and I enjoyed every minute of her story. Timothius’ journey will have you crying, swooning, and laughing- his character may be one of my all time favorites. Elric is without flaw- I will hear no arguments on this fact. This enthralling tale is both thought provoking and swoon worthy- you won’t want to put it down. It’s the perfect balance of fantasy plot and building romance. There isn’t any spice- but you don’t need it- the tension carries the story forward. The epilogue comes with a warning for a reason…… This fairytale broke my heart several times over- but it was worth it, I am going to be simply unwell until we have answers.

[Ashley | A Pair of Readers · Rating 5 out of 5]

RV Wilbur’s newest book will sweep you off your feet. The Cadence of Crowns is whimsical, epic, and full of heart.

RV’s characters — especially Wren and T — are strong, powerful, and emotional. You can’t help but identify with their stories. I love that RV consistently peels back the layers on their stories and just adds so much dimension to their characters as things progress. I won’t lie — there is one side character who stole the show. But I will let you discover them all on your own (sorry no spoilers here!). The relationship between Wren and T sizzles. Honestly, you can cut the damned tension with a kn¡fe. It’s so good. The dance between them has me on the edge of my seat begging them to give into their desires. Truly — the tension is where it’s at with this couple. They practically come off the page. Whew.

As for the plot, when Wren lands in this new world with the overall mission to get home… well things couldn’t go any other way but awry. Like with her solid character development, RV does a brilliant job of adding nuns Fed layers to the plot over time. What starts as a simple plot of political intrigue and desire to overthrow a fiendish king, turns into a tale of twists, turns, and tragedy.

As for that cliffhanger at the end — RV made it hurt, but in the best way. I’ve demanded book 2 no less than 557 times and (im)patiently wait to see what happens next.

[Casey Hayes · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was provided an ARC of this title for free and am leaving this review voluntarily. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

Wren & Timothius.

Florence Klaver, affectionately referred to as Wren by her beloved and ill grandmother, is given something special by the woman as a holiday gift. But when the seemingly ordinary, albeit beautiful, ornament shatters, and Wren finds herself in a world altogether not her own, the pretty heirloom proves to be much more than first glance suggests.

With the help of some unlikely friends, she embarks on a perilous whirlwind adventure to find the answers that will guide her way home, which thrusts her before dangers of more than one type, leading her to a family she never could have imagined, a cause and love worth dying for, and a whole lot more than she ever dreamed.

It’s year three hundred and eighty-six since the fall of the Trifolium thrones, and the tyrant Rat King reigns…for the time being.

Read if you love:
Action & adventure
Slow burn romance
Portal fantasy
Hidden identity
Twist ending | cliffy
Forbidden romance
Eyes on me but not in the typical way
A tangled web of secrets
Double agent
Seasonal courts
Journey across a foreign realm
Found family
Legends
Magic
Elves
Christmas adjacent
Ancient magic relics
&more

Looking for that holiday adjacent tale, complete with action & adventure in a world outside your own, featuring a slow burn forbidden romance complete with all of those SWOONY quotes, look no further. You’ll find all of that and some more inside the pages of The Cadence of Crowns! This was so beautifully written, absolutely enchanting and positively swoon-worthy.

I loved that the author included something of a “warning” after the ending and before the epilogue— because what readers find beyond that page definitely flips the script.

Thank you to the author & R&R Book Tours for my digital review copy.

[Maddie Hamilton · Rating 5 out of 5]

“Of all the magic I have touched in my lifetime, there is not one I recognize more than love.”

This story was everything I was hoping for and more! This nutcracker re-imagining was absolutely magical from beginning to end. A perfect mix of character development with rich world building. Renée really knows how to write stories that bring on lots of emotion (I for sure cried).

It starts off on the slower side, giving us time to really understand and connect to the main characters, the world, the magic system, and the storyline. And then picks up pace when our main character finds herself in some serious trouble with the enemy.

We get BANTER, we get LONGING, we get TENSION, and we get two unlikely people falling in love despite their differences of being from two completely different worlds. And also being forced behind masks (IYKYK).

There is found family with lots of hilarious banter, not only flirtatious but also between friends (you will absolutely be giggling), healing & growth, lots of combat, political intrigue, a secret rebellion, and ballroom dancing. No spice in this one (there may be more in future books) but the romance was absolutely breathtaking and perfectly done.

I wouldn’t say this book is “dark” persay but there are definitely themes and characters who are inherently evil.

Aside from the romance, we get a story of a group of rebels destined and determined to save their world from those who seek to destroy it.

I had so much fun reading this one! I am truly never let down reading one of Renée’s stories.

I appreciate that we are given the option to end this one on a HEA or continue to the epilogue so our hearts can be ripped out of our chests :)

You should definitely add this one to your TBR, It deserves to be read and loved.

[Becca · Rating 4 out of 5]

What a fun twist on a retelling of The Nutcracker!

Going into The Cadence of Crowns I was so excited to see how a Nutcracker retelling would play out. The concept sounded so fun and different. My apprehension laid in the fact that it’s a portal fantasy romance. These types of books typically just aren’t my jam. Given that I have loved RV Wilbur‘s other books, I knew I had to take a chance on this one.

Spoiler alert, I love this book! The portal piece of this fantasy romance was present in the sense that the FMC, Wren, was working to get back home but there weren’t tons of comments from the her on modern world technology. It really felt more like she immersed herself in this new world rather than perseverating on what she was without. I did appreciate some of the little comments, for instance, the people in this world don’t use nicknames, and she explained the concept of nicknames to them, and it seemed cute and more endearing.

The forefront of the story is not romance based. It’s a bit more of a slow burn with the romance coming into the story halfway in. When it does hit, the relationship is so tender, sweet and raw.

When you read the story to the end of the mast chapter you are left so completely satisfied with how our characters are left off. But in true fantasy fashion, if you read the Epilogue you will be left in a whirlwind of “wtf just happened.”

This is definitely worth the add to your list! P.S. Keep your eye out for Reginald and Milo, I love them.

[Tristan · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really liked this book. The premise and the story are really unique and refreshing from most other romantasy’s I’ve read recently. Thank goodness for that. I really enjoyed how the characters bonded. Especially the relationships between Wren and her friends. Those felt deep and real. And I loved the magical world that the author has created that we’re just getting started on delving into.

There’s a few reasons I’m not giving this more stars. The first is that the chemistry between the love interests just didn’t do it for me. I don’t know why… but something felt meh the entire time. I liked her relationship with other characters better. I like Wren for the most part. But I think I liked some of the supporting characters more? I don’t feel like I got to know her at all, except for her deep love for her grandmother. There is also something about the flow that is off. And the ending was bamboozling to me. Like I like it because now that I’ve gone and done some research it seems as though the 4 books will puzzle piece together. But I am also left feeling very confused.

I liked this book but I wanted more from it. It left me wanting something else that I can’t quite put my finger on. Despite that, I’m invested enough that I’ll read the second one.

[Genesis Oms · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ahhhhhh this was literally so good! Inspired by the nutcracker! I felt like I was reading a best seller 👀 the romance in this book is TOP TIER, I’ll include some quotes I loved:

“And you. I dream of you.”

“Because I would rather be here. Dancing with you.”

"Because since the time we parted in this very domain my soul has begged for you. And from the moment I released you beside that well, I belonged to you. The only thing that has changed is that you no longer carry my heart, you are my heart. Every beat, every breath, all that I am is yours."

The characters are just so cute and have wonderful personalities, I loved all of the found family in this book! There was also a loss in this book that tore me apart 😭 but I love a little pain so it’s ok. This book reminded me so much of the movie enchanted, and Timothius reminded me of Rhysand just a little bit, with his tragic little background. Wren is literally just such a sweetie pie and a bad-ass at the same time, I totally recommend this book, the fantasy and the plot was just amazing 🤩 5 ⭐️ no spice! Can’t wait for the rest of the books!

[Bella and the Bookstack · Rating 5 out of 5]

I am a HUGE fan of all of Renee’s books. This book is no exception! Once again, she created an incredibly rich and beautiful story. I’m at the end of this book, and I’m left speechless. Actually, I’m screaming internally because that epilogue DESTROYED me. I was warned, but it still destroyed me.

Everything about this book was so magical. The Cadence of Crowns is a nutcracker retelling of sorts, yet it’s 100% its own unique story. It’s unlike anything I’ve read before, and I knew from the very first pages that it would become an immediate favorite. The magic and world in this story is so incredible! I could almost imagine myself alongside Wren as she danced each night. The dances were so romantic and beautiful despite the peril that existed alongside them.

AND THE PINING!!! This book is a slow burn, but let me tell you, that candle was BURNING! Every look or touch had me screaming and kicking my feet.

There were many moments that had me gasping aloud. I even cried once. (iykyk 😭) I am so in love with this book. It physically hurts that it’s over, especially after that ending. Thank you so much Renee for creating such a beautiful book. I can’t wait for the next one!

[Amber | Mermaid_mama_reads · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a beautiful and heart wrenching story about identity, love, sacrifice, resilience, and hope. I loved every minute of this story. After the first few chapters, I just knew this was going to be a five star read. The world, the characters, the challenges they faced, the found family 🥹… RV Wilbur really knows how to bring out all the feels and pack an emotional punch with her writing and magical stories.

I absolutely loved the characters in this story. The main characters and the side characters. Wren, the FMC, is relatable and mature… I loved the way she handled things and communicated. The MMC, Timothius, is the tortured hero we all love to read about. Having to play a villainous part to save and protect the people he loves most 😭….his control, his restraint, his commitment… my goodness I love his character and his development in this story so much.

RV Wilbur describes this story as a mash up of The Nutcracker and the Mouse King and Outlander with a splash of Merlin and that description is so spot on. With great pacing, interesting characters, and twists and turns, this story will keep you in your toes and wanting more.

Something that is truly unique about this story is that it can be read as a stand-alone with a happily ever after ending OR you can read the epilogue which will connect to the other epilogues in the future books of the series. I personally read the epilogue because I love the torture 😂😅 and OH MY GOSH…. 😭🤯😮‍💨🫠. Torture indeed lol.

Read if you love:
🌲Fantasy-forward Romance
🎭Masquerade balls
🔥Slow burn
✨sweet grandma has secrets
👑Banter… while dancing
⚔️Rebellion Plots
❄️”Eyes on me”
😮‍💨”I see you…”

[KB · Rating 5 out of 5]

The perfect holiday x romantasy read!

Renee once again gives us a beautiful fantasy world that we fall in love with and then she shatters our hearts (which we absolutely love)! The world building is beautiful. The tension is squeal-worthy. And the lore is so unique and fun! A must read- bring your tissues!

[Kerry · Rating 5 out of 5]

I’m going to be thinking about this book for a long time (and recommending it to everyone). The writing pulled me straight into the world, and the characters made me want to stay there.

I loved Wren: how strong and determined she is, how absolutely fierce she is in defending what (and who) she loves.

I predicted one thing and was heartbroken to be right, but in no way did I find the book itself predictable. AND THE EPILOGUE. MA’AM, IT IS CHRISTMAS EVE.

Read it immediately.

[Valerie | Vanelena.Reads · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5⭐️ So good!

This book has everything - cozy holiday vibes, adventure, lore, mystery and magic, and a swoony romance. This was such a unique read - we have four kingdoms, each tied to a particular season, magical beings made of stars, and a dark force that threatened the world, leading to the destruction of the four kingdoms. Wren is such a unique character, she is thrust into this world and has to decide who and what to trust. We have a Nutcracker inspired king, with his court in animal masks, and a sinister hold over Timothius. I really enjoyed this book so much. Wren and Timothius are such a sweet couple - it was so nice to see how their relationship grew over time, and how they really saw each others truest selves. I also loved the side characters like Elric and Katharina. I'm looking forward to more in this series!!

Thank you so much to R.V. Wilbur for the advanced copy of this book! All opinions are my own.

[Meg (fantasybook.adventurer) · Rating 5 out of 5]

✨Cadence of Crowns✨

Too long this sat on my TBR and I am ashamed I didn’t listen to my friends sooner! But they were so right. This is such a beautiful story. A Nutcracker retelling, COC is a unique portal Romantasy that is full of swooning, positive communication, and so much yearning. It is a standalone with an interconnected cliffhanger epilogue leading us into book two that releases next year.

In COC, we follow the FMC, Wren, as she finds herself lost in a magical world after the gifted ornament from her grandmother shatters beneath her fingertips. Immediately, she has a knife to her throat by a masked soldier and a Robin Hood-like savior who whisks her safely into a tree.

After learning that her saviors don’t plan to return her home because of her magical ornament, Wren runs straight into the clutches of the Rat King in hopes of aid. Hidden behind animal masks, Wren is roped into the nightmare that is the king’s court and the mark of his second-in-command, who turns out to be very familiar.

This story is SO ACHINGLY beautiful. The things these characters are put through. The loss they each experience. The acceptance they find in each other. The nightly dances with the Glaive. 🫠🫠 Timothius and Elric have my whole heart. This book is utter perfection when it comes to a slow burn full of angst, tension, and need that doesn’t need a single drop of spice to make you feel all the things. I giggled. I cried. I may have wanted to throw my kindle after the epilogue. How can I wait until February for book two?!

Tropes you may find in COC are forced proximity, masked kingdom, hidden identities, tortured and soft only for her MMC, slow burn, banter, so many flirty dances, standalone with a connecting epilogue (so don’t read it if you want a HEA 🤭), magical creatures and unique magics, and a wonderful found family.

Cadence is out NOW!

[Gabrielle · Rating 5 out of 5]

“I see you. I see only you…”

Well. Another book has wrapped itself around my heart. Be prepared—it’s a sleep stealer. You won’t be able to put it down.

I can honestly say I was entranced. Transported within its pages by the beautiful worldbuilding and descriptive writing, you’re right there with the characters. What starts as an urban fantasy quickly leans into full fantasy (and I was totally here for it). Packed with political intrigue, high stakes, found family, forbidden romance, magic, and so much more, this Nutcracker-inspired retelling—with the ‘toy soldier,’ winter scenes, and enchanting magic—will stay with you long after the final word. But don’t get me started on the epilogue. There’s a warning for a reason. Tread carefully, my friends.

The emotions? Ohhh. Loneliness, tragedy, love, grief—they had me in a chokehold. I sobbed, I laughed, my heart shattered, and then it thrummed with love for these characters. Their struggles, their triumphs, their highs and lows—it all seeped into my soul. The execution was nothing short of delicate, masterfully interweaving character arcs and connecting emotions so intricately that it felt like the perfect puzzle snapping into place when certain scenes played out.

Let’s shine a spotlight on that found family trope—it made me giddy with the cuteness, the banter, and the love they have for one another. The side characters? Namely K and E. Their dynamic with Wren added so much warmth and humor to the story, which balanced the heavier emotional moments perfectly. And as we learn more about them, you’ll find yourself keeping them close to your heart as well.

Wren, our fierce and determined protagonist, stole my heart. She’s not just brave but also deeply compassionate, even in the face of impossible odds. When her actions seemed questionable, I loved how we got her reasoning, making her choices feel grounded and authentic. Her growth throughout the story is everything, and you can’t help but root for her every step of the way.

Timothias. A tortured soul with Rhysand energy—his presence was magnetic. There’s something about the way his inner conflict and hidden depth unfold that keeps you hanging on every moment he’s in the spotlight. His journey and connection with Wren? Pure heart-eye moments. These two together put other loves to shame, my heart (iykyk). Like mirror images of the same soul, with different pasts and traumas pulling them apart and together again—it’s a perfect storm.

The twists will keep you utterly invested, and the progression of the storyline ties together beautifully—no cliffhanger (pre-epilogue). But ooooo, how you’ll yearn for the next installment already.

I loved this book, and I can’t wait to dive back into this world.

[Samantha Gagen · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thank you R.V. Wilbur for sending this book for review consideration. All opinions are my own.

“Once upon a forgotten time, there was magic upon the earth. Magic so brilliant it rivaled the sun. So powerful it could shift mountains and carve valleys. So gentle it danced upon the air itself, drawn into every lung and whispered across every surface. Until it was no more.”

The Cadence of Crowns by R.V. Wilbur is an enthralling romantasy retelling of the Nutcracker.

Wren has always felt out of place, even within her own family. The only person who has ever seen her is her grandmother. During what is shaping up to be their last Christmas together, Wren’s grandmother gifts her a family heirloom - a beautiful Christmas ornament. When the ornament breaks, Wren is swept away to a faraway fantasy land filled with magic, danger, and romance.

This story immediately captivated me with its beautiful prose and enchanting worldbuilding. The prologue tells us the fairytale-esque backstory while also weaving stunning imagery and mythology that quickly pulled me into the story. The plot moves along very quickly so that we’re already immersed in the strange new world by chapter 3.

My favourite part of the story was the scenes involving courtly dances filled with romantic tension while also providing key plot advancement. It definitely reminded me of Pride & Prejudice, to the point that I just know Timothius was walking away from some of those scenes with a hand clench (iykyk).

But of course no Nutcracker retelling is complete without the Rat King and this does not disappoint. Rebellion is brewing, however, and the king is having none of it, with Wren finding herself trapped in the middle of it all.

Everything builds to epic battle scenes so moving and impactful they literally gave me chills. This is a story about being lost, coming into your own power, and finding the love of your life in the process. Because truthfully even with everything going on, it’s the romance that really sticks with me from this book.

(Another feature I thought was neat was the ability to choose to leave it as a HEA/HFN, or to read the shocking twisty cliffhanger epilogue. Very satisfying for any kind of reader!)

Tropes:
Rebellion
Nutcracker meets Outlander meets Pride & Prejudice
Masks
Courtly dances
Sacrifice for the greater good
Unique fantasy mythology
Amazing side characters
Touch her/him and die

[Librosentrelazos · Rating 5 out of 5]

Now that I have stopped looking at the wall and wondering what I did to deserve this much heartbreak, I can start babbling about how much I loved this book.

I'm trying to gather my thoughts to express why everyone should read this book. First, the story's premise is beautiful: the world-building is very well done, giving some clues at the beginning but not enough to spoil the surprises that the FMC will face in her adventures. The mix between the "real world" and the "magical realm" is done perfectly, making you almost believe this could happen any day.

The FMC, Wren, grabbed my heart and never let go. She considers herself a loner, invisible, and forgettable, never quite fitting in, not even with her own family. The only exception was her grandmother, and that bond will change Wren's life forever.

When Wren finds herself in a different world, we meet unforgettable characters and the wonderful Timothius. The MMC is a man with many secrets and a deep sense of duty and responsibility, and the relationship he builds with Wren is beautiful, even if, at moments, they believe it will only happen in a dream.

The way R.V. described the characters' feelings and personalities was impressive. I couldn't help falling in love with all of them, especially Elric and his K. This author's powerful voice will make your heart break into a million pieces—literally, I was sobbing like a baby—and at the same time, make you swoon and dream of love.

There's an epilogue at the end of the book that comes with a warning, but I read it anyway, and it only proved that R.V. is an evil Queen. She better give me book 2 ASAP! Thank you so much for the advanced copy; I deeply loved it.

[Julisa · Rating 5 out of 5]

Looking for a Winter Nutcracker retelling with a strong fmc,masquerade ballroom dances,magic,and enchanted fairytale vibes? Welcome to the world of Breteria a magical land that is beautiful, and dangerous.Beware the Rat king.

The world of Breteria is breathtakingly beautiful with it's stunning world building, attention to detail, and amazing surprise twists that reader's will not be expecting.

The author Mrs.Wilbur is a wonderful storyteller with a natural gift to adapt,and create stories that are both heartfelt,and one that reader's can reminisce about forever.

The Cadence of Crowns pays homage to the Nutcracker with it's magic, mysterious toy soldier,Winter aesthetic,and a fmc that reminded me of Clara's determination,and her heart of gold.

The history,and the legends of Breteria are very interesting,and is a perfect way to reflect back on the important parts of the story.

Family is a powerful part of the story,and I found myself getting tiery eyed especially at all of the scenes in the story with Wren,and her grandmother.😭

The masquerade inspired ballroom dance parties are definitely one of my favorite parts of the story,and using dancing as a way to encourage affection is a brilliant idea.

The epilogue at the end of the book is definitely a real eye-opener moment,and I was not expecting the subtle hint of a certain character from the book.

The Cadence of Crowns by R.V. Wilbur releases on December 24th 2024. Thank you Mrs.Wilbur for the opportunity to read your stunning book.✨️

[BOOK IT BISHES · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love anything Christmas books to get me into the season and I was ecstatic to have been chosen for this ARC.

I have read all of R.V. Wilbur's books and she does not disappoint! Her take on the Nutcrackers was even better than what I could ever imagine.

Wren is our fierce female, thirty, unapologetic and willing to stand up for what she believes in. Her Grandma gifts her an ornament and that is the start of a great adventure! I love her determination and her grit as she ventures into the unknown world that throws her life upside down.

Thrust into a world where a ruthless ruler and his trusted soldier that embodies fear incarnated, rule with a heavy fist. Wren is discovering her history and what her legacy truly means. What she finds leads to heartbreak, revelations and a fierce determination to save a Kingdom she is destined to help.

Timothius is feared amongst the village people for being the weapon the rat king deploys to do his dirty work. But behind this stoic mask lies a vulnerability that we get to experience along with Wren. His story had me tearing up and wanted more than anything that he find his happily ever after.

This story had me laughing, crying and rooting for Wren and Timothius, A fantastic adventure beginning to end. R.V. does an amazing job capturing you into her world that it easy to follow and enriched with amazing characters and worlds. I highly recommend reading anything that she writes.

I loved this story, and I read past her epilogue to know what happens next and though she warns you to read at your own risk, my heart was not prepared for that ending. I can't wait for her next book to see how it all unravels.

[my.literary.addiction · Rating 5 out of 5]

If this is the last book I read of 2024 it will end on a good note because holy cannoli this was everything to me. I fell in love with this book in less than 100 pages. How? Idk just I just felt it in my gut that I was going to love this. R. V. Wilbur is a new to me author & it usually takes me a bit together used to a new authors writing but this was just so easy. It was effortless to get into the story. It’s been an exhausting 2 - 3 months & I just wanted to get into a book & escape & somehow with this book I was able to just let go of worries & fall into it.

The setting of this is just so magical. It reminded me of the first time when you see Narnia. My brain was oohing & ahhhing. Love it. Plus also with it being The Nutcracker theme it also reminded me of that movie too. Very magical. I wanted to go there.

Wren was so relatable. I totally understood where she was coming from with feeling invisible in a room full of people. Even people you know. I loved seeing her find her place & felt like she belonged. I instantly fell in love with Timothius. Instant. He’s so dreamy & I was worried there would be a twist where he’s not what he is. Freaked out a bit with that one. I laughed & cried & was nervous the whole way through.

I also enjoyed the warning before the epilogue. It seems like there will be a few different ways you can read this series which is really cool but my nosey butt had to read on to see what was up & let me tell you… 🤯. Perfect read for the holiday season. 10/10 read this.

[Samantha · Rating 5 out of 5]

I read a lot of holiday books every year but they are not often fantasy books. This is also my first read by R.V. Wilbur so I wasn’t sure what to expect. However, I was sold on this book as soon as I heard it was inspired by The Nutcracker.

Boy was I not disappointed in the least. This book was so incredibly magical and felt like I was living in a fairytale. I’d live in this world for no other reason than the baths that never grow cold 🤣. In addition to that the beautiful imagery of the world, the magic, the dances, made me feel completely immersed in the story. There were so many things I loved about this story. I adored both MCs and their journeys during this book. The side characters were equally charismatic and lovable. Found family is one of my favorite tropes and it was done so well in this book. There were moments I laughed with these characters and many moments when I cried.

The magic system and history of the world created in this book are so interesting and complex (without being overwhelming). I felt the pacing was a bit slow at the very beginning but quickly picked up speed to where I didn’t want to put the book down. I thoroughly enjoyed my time with this book.

P.S. This book is technically an interconnected standalone. The author has made a unique choice to make the epilogue optional until later in the series if the reader so chooses. I thought the warning before the epilogue was hilarious. Did I heed the warning…no i did not. Do I regret that decision…also no. Am I currently in pain and dying for the next book…yes, yes I am 😭😅