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Arianna and the Maze of Monsters
Kidnapped! She is the bait. He is her captor. A monster awaits in a labyrinth of lies. Can she navigate the truth before losing her heart?
When Princess Arianna discovers a plot against Kelkona, she knows she’s in trouble. She rushes to find help—only to get kidnapped. Unfortunately, her knife-throwing skills can’t thwart the nefarious scheme, nor does it stop Silas, the handsome, stoic fae, from binding her to him. Now she is being dragged through the forest on an adventure she didn’t ask for, stuck with a captor who has secrets of his own.
Their time in the forest only heightens her curiosity about Silas, who she wants to believe is more than the villain he seems. And yet he offers no escape, taking her to the very monster who threatens the kingdom—to use her as bait. The monster will stop at nothing, cursing her to remain forever within the maze. Only a true king can save her, but where will she find such a man?
Will she ever escape this monstrous maze and warn her family, or will she fall for the one person whose loyalties she can’t decipher—is he her silent protector or a monster as dangerous as the one prowling the maze? She must untangle the lies before she becomes lost in more ways than one.
Get lost with Arianna in this sweet and swoony reverse “Princess and the Pea” retelling intertwined with the Greek myth of “Ariadne and the Labyrinth.”
When Princess Arianna discovers a plot against Kelkona, she knows she’s in trouble. She rushes to find help—only to get kidnapped. Unfortunately, her knife-throwing skills can’t thwart the nefarious scheme, nor does it stop Silas, the handsome, stoic fae, from binding her to him. Now she is being dragged through the forest on an adventure she didn’t ask for, stuck with a captor who has secrets of his own.
Their time in the forest only heightens her curiosity about Silas, who she wants to believe is more than the villain he seems. And yet he offers no escape, taking her to the very monster who threatens the kingdom—to use her as bait. The monster will stop at nothing, cursing her to remain forever within the maze. Only a true king can save her, but where will she find such a man?
Will she ever escape this monstrous maze and warn her family, or will she fall for the one person whose loyalties she can’t decipher—is he her silent protector or a monster as dangerous as the one prowling the maze? She must untangle the lies before she becomes lost in more ways than one.
Get lost with Arianna in this sweet and swoony reverse “Princess and the Pea” retelling intertwined with the Greek myth of “Ariadne and the Labyrinth.”
364 pages, Kindle Edition
Published April 24, 2024
16 people are currently reading
107 people want to read
About the author
Alesha Adamson
4 books76 followersContrary to what hundreds of authors have experienced, Alesha did not love reading from an early age. Battling dyslexia, she mostly avoided the written word, instead spending hours and hours creating her own stories with dolls, stuffed animals, or even beaded lizards. Copying movies and tv would not do, she insisted upon creating her own stories usually involving romance and insurmountable odds. In the end good would prevail and everyone would receive their happily-ever-after.
Then, with the dedicated help of family and loved ones, she discovered that books were not simply letters on a page, they were amazing stories full of romance, magic, adventure and so much more. It wasn’t long before she was hooked, then—almost accidentally—found herself writing her very own stories.
Once she started creating stories, she couldn’t stop. The ideas kept flowing and she is excited to continue writing more fairytales, adventures, fantasies and especially romances all with their own happily-ever-after.
Then, with the dedicated help of family and loved ones, she discovered that books were not simply letters on a page, they were amazing stories full of romance, magic, adventure and so much more. It wasn’t long before she was hooked, then—almost accidentally—found herself writing her very own stories.
Once she started creating stories, she couldn’t stop. The ideas kept flowing and she is excited to continue writing more fairytales, adventures, fantasies and especially romances all with their own happily-ever-after.
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Displaying 1 - 25 of 25 reviews
April 24, 2024
It was so good I couldn't put it down. I spent my whole afternoon chomping my way through the book. The characters were so likeable I was really rooting for them.
There was a content warning at the front of the book which I felt was good, although I honestly kept bracing for something that I thought would be worse than what it was. I'm grateful for the happily ever after and truly enjoyed the story. I fully plan to read this one again with knowing now what the warnings are about and to just enjoy the story.
There was a content warning at the front of the book which I felt was good, although I honestly kept bracing for something that I thought would be worse than what it was. I'm grateful for the happily ever after and truly enjoyed the story. I fully plan to read this one again with knowing now what the warnings are about and to just enjoy the story.
April 21, 2024
Arianna and the Maze of Monsters was a fantastic book! Alesha Adamson wrote a compelling story that had me hooked instantly. I loved the mash up between the Princess and the Pea fairy tale with the Greek myth of Ariadne and the Labyrinth. It was creative and unique. There were so many twists and turns that I had a hard time putting this book down and read this in one day! I loved both Aria and Silas! Aria was a great heroine. She was fierce and never gave up. Silas was stoic, mysterious, and protective. Their banter was adorable and sassy. While the romance is clean/closed door with only kissing, there were many swoony moments. Highly recommend if you love enemies to lovers, forced proximity, and the one bed book tropes!
I volunteered to read an ARC copy of the book and all thoughts are my own.
I volunteered to read an ARC copy of the book and all thoughts are my own.
September 11, 2024
I loved the adventure and story and how the characters developed with surprises at the end. I felt Silas must have had unique abilities to help Aria, and I guessed he was more than a nature dryad. Finding out he was a king at the end was fun. The magic with Silas and Aria in the final battle was enchanting to read. I wonder if we will see Prince Omar again someday in another book. I loved the fantasy of Aria and Silas's new tree home, and I'm excited for Marion's story next!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 29, 2024
I really loved reading this wonderful book! I loved the characters and the plot! I absolutely loved this retelling of Princess and a Pea and Ariadne and the Labyrinth! I had a hard time putting this really wonderful book down! I am looking forward to reading the next book in this really wonderful series!
July 27, 2024
This was a well-written and entertaining book. I didn't realize it was part of a series, but it works well as a stand-alone novel.
I appreciated the author's thoughtful content warnings in the front of the book, as well as her suggestion for appropriate reader age. It's a "kissing book"-- but ONLY kissing-- which should appeal to readers who aren't ready for Sarah Maas or Jennifer Armentrout.
I appreciated the author's thoughtful content warnings in the front of the book, as well as her suggestion for appropriate reader age. It's a "kissing book"-- but ONLY kissing-- which should appeal to readers who aren't ready for Sarah Maas or Jennifer Armentrout.
June 29, 2024
Love a HEA
Aria is a fiesty heroin that grows more confident, despite her situation. There is more to Silas than meets the eye. What is he hiding and why? Things get really exasperating for Aria and Silas near the end. Loved the solution.
Aria is a fiesty heroin that grows more confident, despite her situation. There is more to Silas than meets the eye. What is he hiding and why? Things get really exasperating for Aria and Silas near the end. Loved the solution.
April 27, 2024
Reader’s Notes:
– this is part of a series, but can be read as a stand-alone
– this is mainly told from Aria’s (Princess Arianna) point of view with some parts told from a few other characters’ points of view
– there is a kidnapping
– a character forces unwanted kisses & attention/touching on another
– it is mentioned that a character had a traumatic experience in their youth after having been placed in a confined space & they still don’t react well to being in small spaces
– a character plans to force an abortion on another character (using a poison)
Review:
I’ve only gotten the chance to read The Dark King and the Eternal Dance & this one, but I am so excited to get to the rest of Alesha’s books! I love how she mixes stories from mythology & fairy tales to make entirely new stories in her own magical world!
For this book specifically, I loved getting to know Aria (who is one of the triplets if you’ve read any of her other books)! She was interesting and not a typical princess with her hobby of knife throwing. I loved that she wanted to protect her family, even if it meant that she’d be the one in danger. I also really liked trying to figure out what Silas’s motivations were with the different reasons he gave Aria along their journey. He seemed so sweet and caring at times despite their situation and things just never seemed to quite add up until it was revealed to the reader. I also really enjoyed seeing the different parts of the Princess and the Pea tale as well as the Ariadne and the Labyrinth tale! I’d only heard of a reverse tale once before, but I think it might refer to the storyline & character roles being reversed from what is known and it was super fun to have that twist mixed into things!
Summary:
*though this book does have more than one point of view, the summary below will not include any but Aria’s as it would reveal spoilers*
When Princess Arianna overhears a plot against her sister’s kingdom, she is quick to act. But because of her actions, Aria ends up captured. She may have knife throwing skills, but with a binding tying her to her captor & a mysterious monster to come at the end of their journey, things look dire. It certainly doesn’t help that Aria’s captor, Silas, is an enigma who seems to be at war with himself over what he is doing, but is also determined to bring her to the monster.
Not to mention that when Aria is cursed to be used as bait for the real prize, Silas becomes her bodyguard against the monsters of the maze. Why does he care so much for her wellbeing when he’s the one who brought her there? Can Aria put her trust in him, or will he be the downfall of her own mission?
– this is part of a series, but can be read as a stand-alone
– this is mainly told from Aria’s (Princess Arianna) point of view with some parts told from a few other characters’ points of view
– there is a kidnapping
– a character forces unwanted kisses & attention/touching on another
– it is mentioned that a character had a traumatic experience in their youth after having been placed in a confined space & they still don’t react well to being in small spaces
– a character plans to force an abortion on another character (using a poison)
Review:
I’ve only gotten the chance to read The Dark King and the Eternal Dance & this one, but I am so excited to get to the rest of Alesha’s books! I love how she mixes stories from mythology & fairy tales to make entirely new stories in her own magical world!
For this book specifically, I loved getting to know Aria (who is one of the triplets if you’ve read any of her other books)! She was interesting and not a typical princess with her hobby of knife throwing. I loved that she wanted to protect her family, even if it meant that she’d be the one in danger. I also really liked trying to figure out what Silas’s motivations were with the different reasons he gave Aria along their journey. He seemed so sweet and caring at times despite their situation and things just never seemed to quite add up until it was revealed to the reader. I also really enjoyed seeing the different parts of the Princess and the Pea tale as well as the Ariadne and the Labyrinth tale! I’d only heard of a reverse tale once before, but I think it might refer to the storyline & character roles being reversed from what is known and it was super fun to have that twist mixed into things!
Summary:
*though this book does have more than one point of view, the summary below will not include any but Aria’s as it would reveal spoilers*
When Princess Arianna overhears a plot against her sister’s kingdom, she is quick to act. But because of her actions, Aria ends up captured. She may have knife throwing skills, but with a binding tying her to her captor & a mysterious monster to come at the end of their journey, things look dire. It certainly doesn’t help that Aria’s captor, Silas, is an enigma who seems to be at war with himself over what he is doing, but is also determined to bring her to the monster.
Not to mention that when Aria is cursed to be used as bait for the real prize, Silas becomes her bodyguard against the monsters of the maze. Why does he care so much for her wellbeing when he’s the one who brought her there? Can Aria put her trust in him, or will he be the downfall of her own mission?
April 24, 2024
Prepare to be enchanted by 'Arianna and the Maze of Monsters' by Alesha Adamson, an engrossing blend of fantasy, romance, and adventure. From enemies to lovers, kidnapping and forced proximity, this book is filled with all the tropes people love yet maintains a sweet no-spice romance.
The story follows Princess Arianna, who finds herself unexpectedly kidnapped and bound to the enigmatic Silas, a fae with secrets of his own. As they traverse the dangers of the forest and unravel the mysteries lurking within the maze, Arianna begins to question whether Silas is her silent protector or a monster in disguise. Their journey is fraught with twists and turns, keeping readers on the edge of their seats until the very end.
What sets this book apart is its clever fusion of the Greek myth of Ariadne and the Labyrinth with the traditional fairy tale of 'The Princess and the Pea.' Adamson seamlessly blends these elements together, creating a story that feels both familiar and refreshingly original.
I particularly admire the depth of the characters, especially Arianna and Silas. Arianna is a fearless and adventurous heroine, unafraid to challenge the status quo and take risks for what she believes in. Silas, on the other hand, is a complex and multifaceted character whose stoic demeanor masks a deeply caring nature. Their banter and chemistry leap off the page, adding depth and warmth to their evolving relationship.
While this book features characters from Adamson's previous works, it can be enjoyed as a standalone, making it accessible to new readers. The nods to past events and characters serve to enrich the story world without overshadowing Arianna and Silas's journey. Indeed, this is my first foray into the series and I completely enjoy it, though I do own the other two books so will be diving into those too!
In conclusion, 'Arianna and the Maze of Monsters' is a delightful read that seamlessly blends fantasy, romance, and adventure. With its engaging plot, well-developed characters, and imaginative world-building, it's a book that will enchant fans of fairy tale retellings and Greek mythology alike. Highly recommended for anyone seeking an immersive escape into a world of magic and intrigue.
*I received an ARC, but this review reflects my honest opinion.*
The story follows Princess Arianna, who finds herself unexpectedly kidnapped and bound to the enigmatic Silas, a fae with secrets of his own. As they traverse the dangers of the forest and unravel the mysteries lurking within the maze, Arianna begins to question whether Silas is her silent protector or a monster in disguise. Their journey is fraught with twists and turns, keeping readers on the edge of their seats until the very end.
What sets this book apart is its clever fusion of the Greek myth of Ariadne and the Labyrinth with the traditional fairy tale of 'The Princess and the Pea.' Adamson seamlessly blends these elements together, creating a story that feels both familiar and refreshingly original.
I particularly admire the depth of the characters, especially Arianna and Silas. Arianna is a fearless and adventurous heroine, unafraid to challenge the status quo and take risks for what she believes in. Silas, on the other hand, is a complex and multifaceted character whose stoic demeanor masks a deeply caring nature. Their banter and chemistry leap off the page, adding depth and warmth to their evolving relationship.
While this book features characters from Adamson's previous works, it can be enjoyed as a standalone, making it accessible to new readers. The nods to past events and characters serve to enrich the story world without overshadowing Arianna and Silas's journey. Indeed, this is my first foray into the series and I completely enjoy it, though I do own the other two books so will be diving into those too!
In conclusion, 'Arianna and the Maze of Monsters' is a delightful read that seamlessly blends fantasy, romance, and adventure. With its engaging plot, well-developed characters, and imaginative world-building, it's a book that will enchant fans of fairy tale retellings and Greek mythology alike. Highly recommended for anyone seeking an immersive escape into a world of magic and intrigue.
*I received an ARC, but this review reflects my honest opinion.*
April 21, 2024
An interesting mash up of Ariadne and the Labyrinth and gender flipped Princess and the Pea.
The plot of the second half of the story was largely based on the Greek myth 'Ariadne and the Labyrinth' and it was great to see how all these elements were blended with ideas taken from 'Princess and the Pea' but very cleverly reworked for Silas' role in this tale.
It was great to see Arianna's story - she's very different compared to all of her sisters that we've seen so far. She's brave and adventurous but can also be reckless and leap without looking. Through her adventures, she comes to realise that being a wild card isn't always a bad thing, and creating a little bit of chaos can shake things up in a good way.
Silas is a very layered character and raises the question of whether the ends justify the means, even if someone has good intentions does that mean their less than stellar actions are right? He cares deeply for others but his insecurities stop him from being open with others both with how he feels and relying on them. His relationship with Aria provides a balance to his quiet and thoughtful nature, helping him to better know when to act and when to stop and think. It was brilliant to learn more about dryads and not just their powers but also their culture - I can't wait to learn more about the other fae races.
It's always great to see Rayna and Drake and how their relationship is continuing to grow. I am hoping after everything they've been through in each book so far, they'll now get to have a bit of peace in future stories.
The thing I loved most about this book was all the little nuggets of information we received about the rulers of the other kingdoms in Vilastoria - I'm really hoping we get to see Kai complete his personal mission in a future story so we can learn more about the wind nymphs of Mistral.
The plot of the second half of the story was largely based on the Greek myth 'Ariadne and the Labyrinth' and it was great to see how all these elements were blended with ideas taken from 'Princess and the Pea' but very cleverly reworked for Silas' role in this tale.
It was great to see Arianna's story - she's very different compared to all of her sisters that we've seen so far. She's brave and adventurous but can also be reckless and leap without looking. Through her adventures, she comes to realise that being a wild card isn't always a bad thing, and creating a little bit of chaos can shake things up in a good way.
Silas is a very layered character and raises the question of whether the ends justify the means, even if someone has good intentions does that mean their less than stellar actions are right? He cares deeply for others but his insecurities stop him from being open with others both with how he feels and relying on them. His relationship with Aria provides a balance to his quiet and thoughtful nature, helping him to better know when to act and when to stop and think. It was brilliant to learn more about dryads and not just their powers but also their culture - I can't wait to learn more about the other fae races.
It's always great to see Rayna and Drake and how their relationship is continuing to grow. I am hoping after everything they've been through in each book so far, they'll now get to have a bit of peace in future stories.
The thing I loved most about this book was all the little nuggets of information we received about the rulers of the other kingdoms in Vilastoria - I'm really hoping we get to see Kai complete his personal mission in a future story so we can learn more about the wind nymphs of Mistral.
July 2, 2024
Wow! I loved this book so much. It is definitely my favourite retelling of the Minotaur and the Labyrinth and I loved how it incorporated elements from the Princess and the Pea as well. I have to say that I did not expect the pea to be in the form of a dagger, but it was so sweet and delightful and a complete twist on the tale. Arianna was a great character. Even though she faced so many difficulties, she would never accept giving up. I felt sorry for her, as her sisters were always disinclined to believe her, thinking that she was blowing things way out of proportion and I love how she was determined to learn how to throw daggers, even though it was "un-princess-like". Silas was definitely my favourite. He did so many things that seemed horrible but he was also completely misunderstood and that endeared me to him (I like misunderstood characters). In reality, he kind of had things under control and it was just so frustrating that every time he would have been able to do something to help, something always stopped him from doing it. However, he never gave up. The plot was so different from what I was expecting when I entered the book but it quickly won me over. I honestly had no idea how a Labyrinth retelling and a Princess and the Pea retelling could combine but Alesha merged them together really well. It was rather fast paced at certain scenes but the romance scenes were also slow, allowing us to see the developing attraction between Arianna and Silas. Alesha really did a marvelous job with this book and I can't wait to read the next book in this series (I'm eager for Marion and Kyron's story).
November 1, 2024
The twists, turns, and mystery keep you turning the pages to find what's next. I 🩷LOVED how past characters were mentioned or in this book ( Drake🤩). However, I think Silas is my new favorite. Despite all that he did he tried to protect everyone while still trying to accomplish what he had been tasked to do.
You could tell from the begining Silas had reasons for doing things even though he hated it, especially because it involved Arianna.
Silas and Arianna were a perfect match they needed each other. He was not confident and awkward and she was so outgoing. I 🩷LOVED when Arianna told him no one likes her chatter and what was wrong with him. 😂 He wasn't used to talking with people so he enjoyed it.
I 🩷LOVE it when couples better each other and make an unstoppable team. With Silas 's know how on magic and Arianna's knife throwing skills they can be dangerous🤣. I also 🩷LOVED the nature dryads traditions. Soooo swoony❤️🔥❤️🔥❤️🔥❤️🔥❤️🔥. They both try not to fall for each other, because they each had missions. Arianna wanted to save her family and escape and Silas trying to save his kingdom and hers. But with Silas 's protectiveness and Arianna's ornery personality they fall hard for each other. He tries to do what is right with his cousin nagging him and a more powerful person all causes him to struggle with things. But with Arianna's help they prove love conquers all❤️🔥❤️🔥❤️🔥❤️🔥
I VERY HIGHLY RECOMMEND THIS BOOK!!!
Also I almost forgot I 🩷LOVE that Silas technically speaks bird 😍. I wish I had that skill then I can tell them whatever my cat said I have no control over🤣. Because whatever meow she used wasn't nice due to them trying to get her at the window
You could tell from the begining Silas had reasons for doing things even though he hated it, especially because it involved Arianna.
Silas and Arianna were a perfect match they needed each other. He was not confident and awkward and she was so outgoing. I 🩷LOVED when Arianna told him no one likes her chatter and what was wrong with him. 😂 He wasn't used to talking with people so he enjoyed it.
I 🩷LOVE it when couples better each other and make an unstoppable team. With Silas 's know how on magic and Arianna's knife throwing skills they can be dangerous🤣. I also 🩷LOVED the nature dryads traditions. Soooo swoony❤️🔥❤️🔥❤️🔥❤️🔥❤️🔥. They both try not to fall for each other, because they each had missions. Arianna wanted to save her family and escape and Silas trying to save his kingdom and hers. But with Silas 's protectiveness and Arianna's ornery personality they fall hard for each other. He tries to do what is right with his cousin nagging him and a more powerful person all causes him to struggle with things. But with Arianna's help they prove love conquers all❤️🔥❤️🔥❤️🔥❤️🔥
I VERY HIGHLY RECOMMEND THIS BOOK!!!
Also I almost forgot I 🩷LOVE that Silas technically speaks bird 😍. I wish I had that skill then I can tell them whatever my cat said I have no control over🤣. Because whatever meow she used wasn't nice due to them trying to get her at the window
April 23, 2024
(I received a review copy of this book, but my opinions are my own and not the result of being kidnapped by a handsome fae and taken to a dangerous labyrinth. Promise.)
Let me just start by saying, whoo, this book was a doozy! I liked it, but it felt like my emotions were bungee jumping all over the place. Alesha Adamson is pretty good at doing that well.
How she managed to make Silas out to be a decent guy? Mastery. She also had experience with Rafe, I suppose. I guess she has a penchant for writing men in desperate straits through little fault of their own.
Arianna managed to be so likably irritating. One minute she's understandably trusting Silas because he's clearly concerned for her long-term welfare, the next she's understandably not trusting Silas because... you know... the whole being involved with her kidnapping deal? I related to her hard, though. Especially when it came to her conscientiousness of her quirks.
That brings me to the romance. It was probably the best part of this book. Seeing how they sacrificed for each other despite their doubt, and how they understood each other on a deeper level, AH! It warmed my heart how they accepted each other's quirks! Not to mention how the Princess and the Pea aspect tied it all together in the end.
Full review and content warnings here (though she does that pretty well at the start):
https://fantasticalhopeful.wordpress....
Let me just start by saying, whoo, this book was a doozy! I liked it, but it felt like my emotions were bungee jumping all over the place. Alesha Adamson is pretty good at doing that well.
How she managed to make Silas out to be a decent guy? Mastery. She also had experience with Rafe, I suppose. I guess she has a penchant for writing men in desperate straits through little fault of their own.
Arianna managed to be so likably irritating. One minute she's understandably trusting Silas because he's clearly concerned for her long-term welfare, the next she's understandably not trusting Silas because... you know... the whole being involved with her kidnapping deal? I related to her hard, though. Especially when it came to her conscientiousness of her quirks.
That brings me to the romance. It was probably the best part of this book. Seeing how they sacrificed for each other despite their doubt, and how they understood each other on a deeper level, AH! It warmed my heart how they accepted each other's quirks! Not to mention how the Princess and the Pea aspect tied it all together in the end.
Full review and content warnings here (though she does that pretty well at the start):
https://fantasticalhopeful.wordpress....
April 24, 2024
Arianna and the Maze of Monsters may be my new favorite book in the Ever After in Vilastoria series. It has conniving royal plots, kidnapping, adventure and travel, a wicked maze, no-spice romance, and a mysterious fae. Don’t forget the hammock! I did not realize that a hammock could make me swoon, but here we are, swooning.
Arianna is an adventurous spirit that doesn’t realize what she’s gotten herself into. She wants to be brave but isn’t at all prepared for the situations she finds herself in. That doesn’t stop her and her “pea-sized knives” though. Her perseverance was endearing and her loving nature even more so. Silas is an interesting and mysterious fae. First of all, I loved that he wasn’t your typical fae. I want to see an artistic rendition of him. He has so much backstory that he doesn’t share. Is he friend of foe? What is his motive? I became more attached to him as his secrets were brought to light. I loved seeing the interactions between Silas and Arianna as the story progressed. I couldn’t get enough of them together.
The plot was very an intriguing mix of Greek mythology and Princess and the Pea? I’ve got to say, I loved it. We have monsters and a huge test. I won’t spoil it but the story wrapped up nicely and left a smile on my face. I can’t wait to read the next book in this series! Also, I want to say thank you to Alesha Adamson for an ARC of this lovely book!
Arianna is an adventurous spirit that doesn’t realize what she’s gotten herself into. She wants to be brave but isn’t at all prepared for the situations she finds herself in. That doesn’t stop her and her “pea-sized knives” though. Her perseverance was endearing and her loving nature even more so. Silas is an interesting and mysterious fae. First of all, I loved that he wasn’t your typical fae. I want to see an artistic rendition of him. He has so much backstory that he doesn’t share. Is he friend of foe? What is his motive? I became more attached to him as his secrets were brought to light. I loved seeing the interactions between Silas and Arianna as the story progressed. I couldn’t get enough of them together.
The plot was very an intriguing mix of Greek mythology and Princess and the Pea? I’ve got to say, I loved it. We have monsters and a huge test. I won’t spoil it but the story wrapped up nicely and left a smile on my face. I can’t wait to read the next book in this series! Also, I want to say thank you to Alesha Adamson for an ARC of this lovely book!
April 25, 2024
It's been some time since I've read Alesha Adamson's other novel, "The Dark King and the Eternal Dance", but it was nice to see some familiar characters again. I haven't read the other book in the same universe, "The Wolf's Golden Deception", but I don't think either books necessarily need to be read before this one.
Usually when I rate a book five stars, it's a story I binge and finish within maybe a day. For this story, I got to appreciate the pacing and the development of the romance and storyline. I am not completely familiar with the fairytales of Princess and the Pea and Ariadne and the Labyrinth, but I could pick up the overall references and I think Adamson did a creative job combining the two tales. Arianna as a character is caring of those important to her and I enjoyed her fiery spirit. An aspect in stories I like are when there is a sort of magical bond or link between two characters, and allowing them to navigate their situation together.
Arianna has a lot of names that are referenced (e.g. "Arianna", "Aria", "Highness", etc) so sometimes the switches were a little confusing. There were also some typos, but that did not stop me from enjoying the story.
Thank you for the complimentary ARC. All opinions expressed are my own.
Usually when I rate a book five stars, it's a story I binge and finish within maybe a day. For this story, I got to appreciate the pacing and the development of the romance and storyline. I am not completely familiar with the fairytales of Princess and the Pea and Ariadne and the Labyrinth, but I could pick up the overall references and I think Adamson did a creative job combining the two tales. Arianna as a character is caring of those important to her and I enjoyed her fiery spirit. An aspect in stories I like are when there is a sort of magical bond or link between two characters, and allowing them to navigate their situation together.
Arianna has a lot of names that are referenced (e.g. "Arianna", "Aria", "Highness", etc) so sometimes the switches were a little confusing. There were also some typos, but that did not stop me from enjoying the story.
Thank you for the complimentary ARC. All opinions expressed are my own.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 12, 2024
Some of the Cleverest Characters!
This instantly became my new favorite Alesha Adamson book! It had all the tropes I love: enemies to lovers, kidnapping, forced proximity, and only one hammock, ALL while staying no-spice!
There were twists and turns I didn't expect in this book (the poison and the sleeping tree...IYKYK) and there were plenty of times that I had NO IDEA how Adamson would ensure a happily ever after for her characters, but I was so glad she managed to pull it off!
Arianna and the Maze of Monsters had banter that made me laugh out loud, and the stoic MMC and the chatty FMC were super relatable to my own marriage and amused me immensely. While this book featured several characters from The Dark King and the Eternal Dance, it isn't necessary for readers to have read Adamson's previous books to enjoy this one.
Very well done! This will be a must-have for my physical library!
This instantly became my new favorite Alesha Adamson book! It had all the tropes I love: enemies to lovers, kidnapping, forced proximity, and only one hammock, ALL while staying no-spice!
There were twists and turns I didn't expect in this book (the poison and the sleeping tree...IYKYK) and there were plenty of times that I had NO IDEA how Adamson would ensure a happily ever after for her characters, but I was so glad she managed to pull it off!
Arianna and the Maze of Monsters had banter that made me laugh out loud, and the stoic MMC and the chatty FMC were super relatable to my own marriage and amused me immensely. While this book featured several characters from The Dark King and the Eternal Dance, it isn't necessary for readers to have read Adamson's previous books to enjoy this one.
Very well done! This will be a must-have for my physical library!
May 20, 2025
Captivating retelling of the Labyrinth and the Minotaur
An overheard secret turns to a kidnapping. Aria gets her own story in this riveting tale. The action is slower-paced, but the romance is fast. These two main characters have great chemistry, but there’s a lot in their way to a happily ever after. I liked the way the author wove in more world building aspects and the dryads. I think this is one of the more unique Minotaur and Labyrinth retellings I’ve seen in a while. The only thing I disliked and found frustrating was the constant miscommunication, assumptions, and lack of communication, particularly from Aria. Nonetheless, this book is still well worth reading, particularly after the other books in the series. Although it’s not necessary to read the other Ever After in Vilastoria books, having the context from The Dark King and the Eternal Dance will make this book far more enjoyable with the cameos and returning characters.
An overheard secret turns to a kidnapping. Aria gets her own story in this riveting tale. The action is slower-paced, but the romance is fast. These two main characters have great chemistry, but there’s a lot in their way to a happily ever after. I liked the way the author wove in more world building aspects and the dryads. I think this is one of the more unique Minotaur and Labyrinth retellings I’ve seen in a while. The only thing I disliked and found frustrating was the constant miscommunication, assumptions, and lack of communication, particularly from Aria. Nonetheless, this book is still well worth reading, particularly after the other books in the series. Although it’s not necessary to read the other Ever After in Vilastoria books, having the context from The Dark King and the Eternal Dance will make this book far more enjoyable with the cameos and returning characters.
April 26, 2024
Wow! First of all, I must admit that Arianna and The Maze of Monsters was beyond what I expected and it was not at all disappointing! I loved Aria and her sisters a lot after reading about them in the other two books in this series and it's just wonderful that they're getting their own stories! This book is absolutely amazing. Aria is such an awesome character. I admire her fierce spirit and how quickly she forgets it around Silas haha. I loved reading about Rayna in this book, of how protective and determined she was for her sister. And not to mention, Silas, he was such a great character. I loved all of their scenes together!! They're adorable! But I wish there was at least one scene of the twins (Aria's sisters) cause I love them so much!! I hope to see them in the next book. I hope it's Marion's!
July 16, 2024
This is definitely not for the weak of heart! 😂 The questions and stress of the whole situation get ya, lol. Arianna gets kidnapped and handed over to Silas who takes her to the maze. He is SO tight lipped it drove me bonkers! Oh my goodness it gets really intense. There’s some good humor and sweet romance. I was afraid it was getting a little Stockholm syndrome-y. But, you get to really know Silas and his character and it doesn’t feel that way after a certain point.
Some important things to know, there is some unwanted touching by villain (i.e. grabbing her waist and pulling her to him, kissing her hand, etc.). There is one forced kiss, because of which I’d say it’s good for ages 18+.
💕Knife throwing FMC
💕Nature Druid MMC
💕Banter
💕Forced Proximity
💕Mystery
💕See characters from other books
💕HEA
Some important things to know, there is some unwanted touching by villain (i.e. grabbing her waist and pulling her to him, kissing her hand, etc.). There is one forced kiss, because of which I’d say it’s good for ages 18+.
💕Knife throwing FMC
💕Nature Druid MMC
💕Banter
💕Forced Proximity
💕Mystery
💕See characters from other books
💕HEA
April 25, 2024
"I’ve seen you throw knives. You’ve already braved the labyrinth once. I dare you to do it again.”
Wow! This! This is the labyrinth story I didn't know I needed!! A feisty, knife-throwing, kidnapped Princess? A mysterious, protective nature dryad?? YES, PLEASE!! I absolutely could not get enough of Aria and Silas! You'll be laughing one minute, then swooning the next! And there is a whole lot to swoon about too. Just wait until you get to that first kiss!!
This book has all the makings of a great story! Great characters, swoony clean romance, a compelling plot, a villain who will make your skin crawl, and a happy ending! Trust me, you won't want to put this one down! Now excuse me while I go buy some throwing knives...
Wow! This! This is the labyrinth story I didn't know I needed!! A feisty, knife-throwing, kidnapped Princess? A mysterious, protective nature dryad?? YES, PLEASE!! I absolutely could not get enough of Aria and Silas! You'll be laughing one minute, then swooning the next! And there is a whole lot to swoon about too. Just wait until you get to that first kiss!!
This book has all the makings of a great story! Great characters, swoony clean romance, a compelling plot, a villain who will make your skin crawl, and a happy ending! Trust me, you won't want to put this one down! Now excuse me while I go buy some throwing knives...
April 24, 2024
First off read the advisory! If you like books that give you all the feels, literally all the feels, read this book! Aria is a spitfire of a princess who goes on one heck of an adventure. I loved every minute of it. I was shocked, disgusted, terrified and enchanted. I could not put it down. Yes some parts were tough to read but that just made the other parts that much better. Silas... Swoon! They have some sweet playful moments that are just adorable. I couldn't get enough of them together. As promised its a happy ending and absolutely worth the read!
May 4, 2024
most unique reverse princess and the pea retelling i have read yet!
While it has been a few years since i read the book that introduces us to this family, it was so fun to pick up with another sister's story and read this compellingly told story of the labyrinth that entwined with a reverse princess and the pea. A few parts of the story confused me, but in the end it all came together. Excited to read more of these sisters stories in the books ahead!
While it has been a few years since i read the book that introduces us to this family, it was so fun to pick up with another sister's story and read this compellingly told story of the labyrinth that entwined with a reverse princess and the pea. A few parts of the story confused me, but in the end it all came together. Excited to read more of these sisters stories in the books ahead!
April 23, 2024
With a story that’s reminiscent of both Greek myths and beloved fairy tales, readers are bound to fall in love with this sweet romantasy.
I have always found myself drawn to strong FMC, and this book checked all of the boxes for me. Aria’s determination and strength kept me hooked from the first chapter.
I have always found myself drawn to strong FMC, and this book checked all of the boxes for me. Aria’s determination and strength kept me hooked from the first chapter.
December 10, 2025
This book hooked me from the very first line. Arianna is the perfect blend of fierce and vulnerable, and her dynamic with Silas is EVERYTHING slow-burn, secret-laden, trust-on-the-edge-of-a-knife perfection. The maze scenes were wonderfully tense and atmospheric, and the mythological echoes of Ariadne made the story feel both fresh and timeless. I devoured this in one sitting.
May 4, 2024
WOW! Alesha Adamson just keeps getting better and better. I loved the mythology of the story, it's a side of the myth thats rarely told so it was a nice change of pace. I won't give too much away but without a doubt I hope there are more that follow suit! Worth the read!! 10/10!
March 30, 2025
This story follows Princess Arianna, who is kidnapped while trying to save her sister. She is then taken to Silas, a tree dryad who is responsible for taking her to the maze of monsters. I liked the interaction between Silas and Arianna. The story was interesting but seemed a tad too long.
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